French Mac Friday - Back to Macarons

It has been a while since I made macarons.  I believe the last time I made them was last year. Not sure why I didn't make them again this year.  Oh ya, I remember, it's sweet and I shouldn't be eating them.  But it doesn't mean I can't serve it for dessert or give it as gift.  So I decided to try them again as I need some more practice.  This time I made their size smaller.  They are cute but I need more practice in piping.  I found some tips online and it's like a trouble shooting guide.  Now I can try again keeping in mind all the information that I read.  For example, I need the consistency really looking silky and flowing like a lava.  If I am coloring it, I will need more to actually change the color of the macarons.  And the last one is all about that baking.  Right temperature and correct timing is the key.  With all those in mind, the next batch should be perfect.  I hope so.  Anyway, here's what I did this week.

As you can see, some are perfectly piped.

This batch all have that little point which is not correct.

Aren't they so cute. You can just pop the whole thing. 

Wrap Wednesday - Use of Pashmina

Does anyone still uses Pashmina?  I seem to recall before I retired in 2010, everyone was using it and for some reason I got a few that I received as gifts.  When we were in the process of moving, I had to give away some or maybe I sold them at a garage sale.  Anyway, I still have at least six or so.  While trying to reorganize the closet in my sewing room, I saw them again.  I was wondering how big some of them were and would they be big enough to cover the bed.  Of course, not the whole bed but just the width.  I picked a couple and iron them and tried them in our bed and in one of the guest bedroom which was upstairs.  The result was not bad.  When my sister was visiting last October she made us one for our bed.  I started calling them bed scarf.  She started a red one when she was visiting last May, unfortunately she did not finish it and maybe the next time she visits, she can finish it. Really there's no rush since that one is for our extra guest room downstairs.  Now are you wondering what I am talking about.  Aside from using Pashmina as a scarf, you might want to try using it as a bed skirt at the end part of your bed.  The only trick is that you pick something that compliments the color and design of the bed cover.  I think mine is ok.  What do you think?

Momentous Monday - A year ago today

No one could believe it either.  We have been in Canada for one complete year.  Winter was not that bad and we survived living in our new home for the whole season.  Spring came a little late but Summer is hot during the day and comfy during the night.  We have made

many friends in the neighborhood and are still meeting new ones as some old neighbors moved out and some new ones moved in.  Of course there are other people we meet through my volunteer, the golf course and through our neighbors.  It seems like the year went by so fast that we have no reason to complain about anything.  We are very lucky to have found a great home which technically we have not done any repairs or repainting.  At the beginning we did a lot of shopping for furniture and appliances and decorative items.  Once everything was in place, there was nothing to do except enjoy living in our new home.  Some of the hobbies I started during the winter months are painting empty bottles of wine.  I also started painting 4" x 4" canvas using acrylic paints (both materials from the Dollar store).  Of course sewing still keeps my busy on those cold nights.  Embroidery and crocheting were the other hobbies.  As for Jeff he is constantly tinkering in our RV and of course in the garage.  His biggest project for the winter was the wooden shutters for our entertainment room.  After that we started collecting different items we bought from the store, garage sales and some were donated by our neighbor and friends.  We had a chance to visit relatives and friends who resides in other parts of BC as well as the state of Washington.  This weekend we will celebrate this even with a little backyard BBQ with the good old american dishes (hamburger, hot dog, corn on the cob, coleslaw, potato salad, watermelon and some treats).

We cannot wait to make new exciting memories as well as welcoming friends and family who will be staying with us.  

The day we moved in a year ago.

The two deer were in our front yard - the Vernon welcoming committee

Our first winter, snow arrived the first day of  November and stayed for a couple of weeks.

These flowers bloomed for my birthday.

My daughter and my sister came to visit.

Treats Thursday - Christmas Cookies

Only ten more sleeps before Christmas and just going to remind my readers to finish your shopping, wrapping and baking.  I am happy to report that we completed our tasks and are just getting some last minute housekeeping before my daughter and SIL arrive to spend their first NO SHOW Christmas.  We are hoping for some sunny weather and maybe a little warmer just for them.  The menu for the holidays are complete but still need to shop for them a couple of days before they arrive.  As for my baking, I am proud to say that I baked more cookies than any other year.  Hopefully I can share some with family and friends and maybe even the guys at the golf course.

Favorite Friday - My new favorite things

Do you remember the song from the Sound of Music, my favorite things?  I am sure most of you know it and may even know all the words.  Today I am doing some of my favorite things that makes me happy.  Jeff always says, it does not take much to make me happy.  

• My favorite daughter - Leesh - each and every time we reconnect by phone, I hear her voice and she sounds happy - then I know she's OK and that makes me happy.
• My favorite MIL - Annette - when I tell her that I will be picking her up to take her where ever she needs to go, then she get's excited and that also makes me happy.
• My favorite sport - Golf - it's interesting that when I join with good golfers, my game seems to be better and I am so so happy.
• My favorite fruit - Plum - specially the one from Jean and Gil's tree.  When I helped Gil pick the plums last Thursday, they were the sweetest and crispiest plums ever.
• My favorite movie - Despicable Me 2 - It was so funny I could see it again or maybe get a copy of the DVD so I watch it over and over again.  
• My favorite song - CRUISE by Florida Georgia Line featuring NELLY - when I saw them perform at the CMT, I was very happy to see Nelly perform again.  As I am now considered in my golden years, I am truly enjoying country music.
• My favorite flip flop - Silver - while in Maui, Jeff and I stopped by a K-mart store because we were looking for the Aloe after sun lotion.  Not only did we find it but I also found the most comfortable silver flip flip ever.  It was only $ 5.43

Thumper Tuesday - just too cute

It has been a long time since I've seen a cotton tail bunny at the golf course.  I know I have shown photos of turtle, deers, etc.  Last week while golfing with a couple of friends, there it was.  Of course it reminds me of something close to my heart.  Of course I had stop and take a photo.  I did not want to scare it so it's not a close up.  It's still cute and it was a good feeling to see it again.

Just remembered that I took this photo of a little boy playing the drums at the Arts and Wine Festival.  He was so good everyone was taking photo and videos as well.  Not sure how old he is, but you can just see the comparison of him and his drums.

Last but not least, I have to share what my MIL gave us for our fifth wedding anniversary.
It's amazing where she finds the cutest little gifts.  

Our new salt and pepper shakers

 

Sparkling Sunday - Glitters and more

Today is all about golf markers that glitters and sparkles.  I have one that a friend of mine found that has pink glitters and the word "Goddess".  I also have one that is similar to the lady bug below.  My friend Gina gave me a blue one with a bird that also sparkles.  The other one I like was the white one with my initial but unfortunately, I lost it at the golf course because I did not have hit clipped in my hat.  It was just in my pocket and it must have just slipped when I took out my golf ball or tee.  Oh bother.  If you are a golfer, do you have a favorite ball marker.

 

 

Filing Friday - Time to Organize

If you are a Big Bang Theory fan, you will understand where this is all going.  After watching last night's episode, I realize that I am a bit like Sheldon Cooper when it comes to organizing.

Just in case you are not a fan or missed last night show, he was invited to dinner at Howard and Bernadette.  Then all of a sudden you see him inside their closet organizing and sorting the mess.  After a few minutes it shows how much he accomplished and the closet looks so clean and color coded and even labeled.  When I woke up this morning, it was still in my head and that prompted me to do a bit of that.  I organized all the several piles of paper, magazines, letters, etc. that has been in folders.  In addition to that, I got all the important papers/documents ready for when we go to get the our WILL updated/amended.  During the process I also updated also my list of telephone numbers and decided to write a couple of letters and sent a couple of Easter cards.

Leonard is telling Sheldon it's time to go home and Sheldon wants more time.

Merry Monday - Productive Day

Due to the very rainy days in our area, we have been stuck at home.  The weather forecast is pretty similar every day, cloudy, rain, showers, windy.  I know that all those are easier to handle than snow, sleet, freezing rain or blizzard.  Jeff and I decided to do some productive chores.  While I was doing my normal chores, I also tackled the organizing of our kitchen cupboard.  It has been a while since I took inventory and really discard all those expired items.  The other chore that I was so proud of completing was our Liquor Shelf.  I created a legend (locator) for our inventory.  So here's how it looks and check out my inventory list.

From Top to Bottom (Liquor, canned goods, tea/coffee, spices,snacks, nuts,baking needs, rice and noodles)

The bottom line from L to R describes what's in the first row of the top shelf.  I can easily find what I need.

Three on Tuesday - How long does it last?

Today is about crying babies, only because of our babysitting experience this past weekend.  I cannot recall any continuous crying when we use to look after Gamble when he was younger.  He was so easy baby sitting and would only cry (very little) when hungry or wet.  It was only easy when bed time comes and to this day, we would let him know what the schedule is and he was fine with that.  Even though it has been ages since my children were small, I don't have any recollection of them having one of those crying hissy fits.  That is why I am having a difficult time with the other grand kid.  It's either she's very spoiled or she's just harder to please.  So how long do you let her cry?  

• YES - according to some books and other experienced parents, let them cry between 5 to 15 minutes before giving up.  Usually they fall asleep before the 5 minutes is up.
• NO - it's very difficult for me to listen to her crying because it's very high pitched and very loud.
• MAYBE - the next time, we might just have Gamble only instead of both.  I am sorry but I really don't have the patience and energy to look after two very young little people. I guess I am the wicked step grand mother from the East. Oh bother.

Not sure who this is but you get the idea?

Sinful Sunday - but not a real SIN

Sinful - ungodly, wicked,  or  Sinful - over the top, extraordinary.  I believe today's post described the second one.  Here are some of the sinful lists that I love or would love to have, do or experience.

• My new favorite drink AMF - it's sinful because it has at least four hard liquor (Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila) and two very sweet mix (Blue Curacao and Sweet&Sour).
• Steak and lobster - this has been my all time favorite specially when the steak is done perfectly(medium rare) and the lobster is a nice size and cooked just right.
• The Ranch Golf Course .
• Dubai resort - when this particular hotel was being built, I was actually in Dubai.  I think the name is Burj Al Arab.  It's very unlikely that we can afford to stay there.  But it's still a truly sinful hotel. 
• Lotus Elise - if you recall on one of my previous post, I parked beside this car in the parking lot of Lowe's.  It's nice to know that the owner shops there and possibly a handy man.
• Tennis bracelet - this is probably one of the oldest and longest sinful piece of jewellery that I love to have but with real diamonds, it does become just another item in the wish list.
• Spa - when it comes to pampering yourself, this is one of the all time ME time.  Spending a weekend at a very luxurious SPA where you can get a massage, mani-pedi, exotic drinks, exciting meals and decadent desserts.  Maybe even horse back riding along the beach (bucket list), a golf and tennis lesson, not to forget relaxing in the lazy river.
• Dessert - PF Changs Banana Spring Roll,  Gordon Biersch Warm Apple Bread Pudding, BJ's Pizookie Trio and last but not least Caper's White Chocolate Creme Brulee.
• Las Vegas aka Sin City.  What is sinful is the gambling but it's so much fun when you are winning.  But it's not just the gambling, it's the food, the drinks, the shows, the people and just the fact that they DO NOT SLEEP.

Frame Friday - Sunglasses

What do you do when you see a pair of sunglasses that you have been looking for and then you found out it is on sale?  The answer:  YOU BUY IT.  Well, this post topic came about when I went to KOHL’s last Tuesday and I found a pair of Sunglasses.  I could not believe the deal that I got.  It was marked with a yellow sticker but there was no price.  I went to the first Price Check stand and could not believe what I saw.  $ 2.68 

When I got home, I decided to collect all the sunglasses that I have.  There were three in my car and two in Jeff’s car.  I took a photo of all six which includes my recent purchase (sporty look, bluish lens).  From top to bottom - newest to oldest.  The third one from the top with the larger roundish frame was given by my daughter. 

How many pairs of sunglasses do you own?  Do you only like a specific style?  Do you lose them or give them away once you buy new ones?

First Friday - First things and more

First Friday of June and it's June 1 so I have decided to do a similar one I did a few months ago.  Here are random firsts in my life that I can still remember - material things only.

• First car - Two door Toyota Tercel - Black - Manual transmission- drove it into the ground
• First Coach purse - hand me down from my daughter but still in great shape
• First expensive ring - my engagement ring from Jeff
• First golf club set - 9 piece from Play it again sports
• First customized tennis shoes - Ordered from Nike, wore it once and its stored in it's original box
• First fun toy as an adult - Nintendo DS from Jeff
• First wig - used it twice and left it with my friend Zenia 
• First pool cue - bought it in the late nineties and I sewed a case for it and still use it.
• First tennis bracelet - this actually has colorful gems - Christmas gift from Jeff
• First Nike tennis skirt - a gift from my favorite son in law many years ago - it still fits
• First slot machine win - Riviera Hotel - Dollar machine with yellow ducks 
• First motorcycle ride - my friend Wally owned one and he drove through the country roads of Niagara on the lake.
• First parka - when I lived in the mid 70's in northern Canada, I made my own Park with nice furry lining and an outer shell in yellow with a big flower applique in the back.
• First muk luk (eskimo boots) - after slipping more than once, I decided to buy a pair of this special soft leather boots.
• First Levi's jeans - bought one at the Petaluma Outlet because it was on sale and it was the perfect fit.

Can you remember some of your first items that you might still have or maybe have parted with them?  Do you still keep them because it was your first?   Is there other Firsts that you are still working on?  Have a great weekend and enjoy the beginning of summer nights.

Timely Tuesday - Favorite Things

How do you pick your favorite perfume? Do you read the poll on a magazine on what's the latest scent? Would you spend some time at the perfume section of a store and sniff some or all until you find the best one?  As for me, I use to sniff the little sampler on a page of a magazine and if I actually like it, I will wait until they have some sort of bonus for the particular line of perfume, then buy it. As I get older, I would just pick a new scent every now and then but only get the smallest size. But a couple of years ago, my girlfriend from Ottawa was visiting and as soon as I hugged her, I got just a tiny hint of her perfume and I immediately ask her what she had on. At first I thought that what's nice on her skin might not be the same for me. That's what I have read regarding different reaction of scent on every one's skin. Since I didn't really have anymore favorites at the time, I thought that if I see it and can afford it, that I will buy it.  So far I have bought the perfume a couple of times and then I couldn't find it anywhere.  Until last week, I was out shopping with Jeff's mom and there it was inside the display cabinet at Ross Dress for Less.  Only one left, I thought it must be my lucky day and it was meant for me. Of course I bought it.

Timing is very important when it comes to getting a good deal on something that you would like to have but do not want to pay an arm and a leg for it.  Sometimes you might have to wait for a few days because you know that the will be having a sale.  But what if you were window shopping and you found something you like but someone already has it in their hand. Do you wait just in case that shopper changes their mind and put it back in the rack?  Do you just re check the rack just in case you miss it the first time?  Do you just forget about it and leave?
Well, I guess it was another lucky day for me last Thursday because I found this Purple purse that I kinda like but it must be meant for me because it was on sale this time.