things that make me smile, vol. 9

1. Being reminded that while I live in my little house, so many other critters call my property and surrounding area "home." Like lots and lots of bunnies, birds, raccoons, deer, and little frogs. (I've heard rumors of bears and coyotes, too!) I hope I can help keep it that way. But I'm ok if the bears and coyotes decide not to visit...

things that make me smile, vol. 8

Oh yes, it's time for another rendition of "things that make me smile"!

1. Creating for others. I love it. I need to do more of it... and want to uphold my promise to make something handmade for those that signed up for it months ago. (I haven't forgotten!!)

flowers make me smile

I love flowers. They make me smile... and I like smiling. Some even remind me of special people or events--which makes my heart smile, too.

I tried to make a list of my favorite flowers. It was much more difficult than I thought it would be! Here's what I came up with...



1. Peonies. I am slightly obsessed with them. They are just so frilly and feminine I can't help but adore them!

Things That Make Me Smile, vol. 5

1. Trader Joe's Triple Ginger Snaps. OMG good stuff. I love ginger snaps--they taste delish, help with motion sickness/nausea, go great with tea, etc. TJ's Triple Ginger Snaps have three kinds of ginger in them... ground, fresh, and candied. The cookies have a distinct texture that I haven't found in any other ginger snap, with little bits of the candied ginger throughout. (They also come in a cookie thin version!) If you don't like ginger you really won't like these. Oh, and apparently I'm not the only one to love these... the Triple Ginger Snaps were the #2 favorite TJ product of 2010!

2. Antiquing/Thrifting. This really shouldn't be much of a surprise. I love the hunt for unique finds. I tend to go for the useful items and I try not to buy anything unless I know (or have a good idea) what I'll use it for or where I will put it. It might take me awhile to find the right item, but the hunt is more than half the fun! (Plus it is even more fun when I get to go with friends!)

Things That Make Me Smile, vol. 4

Life being what it is (crazy, unpredictable, no "pause" or "easy" button), I decided it was time for my 4th Things That Make Me Smile list...

1. Harney & Sons Holiday Tea. Enough spice to make it special without being overpowering. I take a sip and am gently reminded to be happy... it's the holidays! And then I want to invite everyone over for a holiday gathering with tea, wine, and goodies. (If you live in the Kitsap County area, the Starbucks at Barnes & Noble in Silverdale sells the H&S Historic Royal Palaces blends--including the Holiday Tea-- in tins with 30 sachets!)