Life is grand at the "Cottage"

Had to share the new Cottage treasure? I have moved it all around the house and hope to land on the perfect spot for her soon.  IF, you want one and I am sure you do - you know how us blogging sisters are she has one, I want two! Then pop over and see Paula and check it out. My friend Tina inspired me, and then Laurie Anna had one too, so of course I wanted one too!
Thank you all for the sweet and thoughtful comments yesterday regarding my departure from ATT, you are the best friends!
Hope you all have a wonderful day!
Valarie

FAREWELL AT&T!

Hello~ 

Today is my last day at AT&T. If you recall from this post, I recently was given a letter of separation by AT&T. 19 years later I would have never imagined I would be in a layoff situation. I started working at Southwestern Bell Telephone in Longview, Texas, November 13, 1990 with the goal in mind to retire here as well.  Since receiving the letter of separation it has been a roller coaster of emotions interviewing for positions within the company and externally. Last night LOML and I went to pick up the boxes from my office that were filled with memories. When we arrived home I begin unpacking the boxes and realized what an incredible career I had over the 19 years. The last 6 years being the best of the best! Supporting the marketing organization was a ton of fun (thank you Jamie for placing me in events!). The event org supported fabulous events such as the yearly Sales Kick Off, The Executive Briefing Center,  President's Club, Circle of Excellence, Diamond Club for both management and non-management events held at the best of the best resorts. I had the opportunity to travel and stay places that I will treasure forever!  Cabo at The Marquis,The Four Seasons at Aviara, The Westin Kierland at Arizona, The Bellagio, The MGM, The Ventian all at Vegas, The Diplomat at Hollywood, Fl,  The Del at San Diego, The Fairmont at San Francisco, The Hyatt Hill at San Antonio, The Drake at Chicago, Royal Sonesta at New Orleans. All of the activities, the Pink Jeep Tour in Sedona, snorkeling in Cabo, massages at the finest hotels, The Red Rock Canyon Jeep Tour in Vegas, The Everglades Swap Boat ride in Florida, the Alligator Farm in Florida, Behind the Scenes Tour of the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park in San Diego, The ferris wheel ride at Navy Pier in Chicago with my fabulous peers, the sunset dinners in San Francisco, the ferry ride across to Sausilto. The sporting events, the Byron Nelson Golf Event for ATT, Dallas Stars games, Mavericks play off games, Ranger games, the PGA tours, having lunch and being seated at the same table with Byron Nelson, the Baseball Hall of Fame event & meeting Rollie Fingers & Wade Boggs, supporting the ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation) event in St Louis for Tony LaRussa - the list of memories goes on and on.  The entertainment  provided at these events and meeting the bands behind the scenes was amazing! CCR, Train, Janet Jackson, Tony Marquis, The Beach Boys, fire twirlers, jugglers, etc.. Then my favorite- giving back to the community... American Heart Walk (love you Sara!), Junior Achievement (hugs Caroline!) Chip Moody Golf Classic (thanks Amy!), Denton County Advocacy Center, and many more. The opportunities, the community involvement, building the brand in the community for AT&T have no doubt changed and molded my life. What will I miss tomorrow when I don't go to the office besides the rush hour traffic and the alarm clock? My husband, the LOML (love of my life) who is still employed there (30 years of service), my dear friends, my tub mates, a few of the leadership team that truly "get" events and the importance of them, and mostly the routine I have had for 19 years!  I am thrilled for the forced opportunity to pursue a dream I have had for many years. I can't wait to share my new venture with all of you after the first of the year! I am looking forward and not back, living on faith and promise that tomorrow will be filled with another wild ride!  Love you all... Valarie

It's Complicated!!

LOML and I had date this afternoon. We went to the movie to see "it's Complicated" with Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin & Steve Martin. We laughed and laughed... oh my gosh it is a Holiday must see!! I loved Meryl's wardrobe. It was so classy, funky and just really hip!  If you have a chance to go out to a movie ~ I highly recommend!! 
Chat tomorrow! 
Valarie 

Something to think over today....

Perspective

One day , the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live.

They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.

On their return from their trip , the father asked his son , "How was the trip?"

"It was great , Dad..", said the son

"Did you see how poor people live?" ,the father asked.

"Oh yeah , " said the son.

"So , tell me , what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father.

The son answered:

"I saw that we have one dog and they had four.

We have a pool  that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end.

We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night.

Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.

We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight.

We have servants who serve us , but they serve others.

We buy our food , but they grow theirs..

We have walls around our property to protect us , they have friends to protect them."

The boy's father was speechless.

Then his son added ,   "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are."

Isn't perspective a wonderful thing? Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have.

Appreciate every single thing you have , especially your family and friends!

"Life is too short, and family and friends are too few."

(Anonymous)

White Christmas!!

Can you believe we have a White Christmas here in North Texas? From my home to yours...  MERRY CHRISTMAS!! 
Valarie 

I BELIEVE IN SANTA!!

Preparing for a visit from Santa tonight! If you follow my blog you remember that  Santa comes here Christmas Eve to read a story to the grandchildren and have milk and cookies before his long journey.  The kids will be here for dinner, we will laugh with Santa and remember years of fun with him.  
My wish for you is that you are snuggled around the fireplace enjoying family and eating all your favorite cookies!  Thank you for stopping by today. I know you are all very busy!! 
fa la la la la!
Valarie 

THE COUNTDOWN!

As we all are scurrying around the last few days decorating our homes, hanging the final thread of garland, decorating cookies, I hope you find joy and happiness in your homes and the reason for the season.  I will be out today finding the last perfect gift .. but before I go I wanted to share my Christmas home with you. Please click here to find the photos. Wishing you a fun day filled with love, laughter and a bit of jingle!
Valarie

Only 3 more days!! HO HO HO!!

If everything seems.....

I love this print.. I found it here... Hope you all have a great Monday!!!
Valarie

Hosted Christmas gathering last night!

Edited to add***** Yes, the red thangy holding the photos is an old chip clip holder, I actually found at a garage sale in a pot with ivy growing on it!! I asked so nicely.. "What would you sell that pot of ivy for?" She said "OH, HoW ABOUT 2 BUCKS!" It was very rusty, of course you know I had to paint it RED!! Hugs!! Valarie ********

Happy Sunday all... Sharing my Christmas gathering from last night!  The menu last night was fajitas -chicken or beef, black bean salsa, cheese dip, BBQ poppers, Pico de Gallo and Guacamole! and plenty of beer to go around at least 3 times and 2 bottles of red wine. A good time had here at the blue cottage!!  I have to give credit here for the recipes.. here...  
I made BBQ jalepeno poppers, Please note- I made the recipe straight from her cookbook not her website, there is a difference. In the book it stated to bake for one hour- didn't tell you what temperature so I baked them at 375.  PLEASE LISTEN TO ME!! DO NOT WEAR LATEX GLOVES, WEAR RUBBER GLOVES.. Working with jalepenos makes your hands cry out loud!! I also advise one day in advance for prep- a bit time consuming!

And then in the midst of all my busy - LOML comes home from an "errand" he had to run and brought me this adorable rooster clock!! AND he hung it ! Thanks LOML for living the dream with me!!

And then here are a few photos I snapped of the house last night! Hugs to all of you.. Valarie

Santa- Define Good!

Had to share this adorable door hanger pillow I found today.... Could not wait to show you!  
Hope you had a great day! Valarie 

Just ask.... can I have those cedar sprigs?

While visiting the Christmas Tree farm the other day... I asked with the Texas accent??? Can I have those cedar sprigs? (that they have  left over from the tree trimming) he said "SURE, HOW MANY YOU WANT?" Well, I got a bag full - so I have been decorating with them... the house smells soooooooo GOOD!!   

Have fun today!! 

Valarie  

I caught Santa!! (in my house)

This is a must do for your kids & grandkids! You will be glad you did, what a cool memory!!
Jingle Bells!!
Valarie

Cornbread Taco Bake

Let me introduce you to my blogging Texas friend... The LonE StAr QuEEn!  I have to give The Queen credit for this recipe -- it's yummy!! It was so yummy that I forgot to photo the finished dish!

Cornbread Taco Bake

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 can creamed corn
• 1 T chopped jalapenos
• 1T chili powder
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup green pepper chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped onions 
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce 
• 1  package cornbread mix
• 1 (2 7/8 ounce) can French-fried onions (optional)
• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• black olives (optional)

1. In skillet, brown meat with onion and green pepper; drain.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce
3. Mix together cornbread mix, milk, egg, corn, jalapeno, chili powder and add black olives and  half of the french fried onions if desired
4. Pour 1/3 of cornbread in the bottom of pan
5. Add the meat mixture to the pan
6. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the meat
7. Pour additional cornbread on top
8. Bake uncovered at 400°F for 20 minutes.
9. Top with cheese and french fried onions if desired.
10. Bake 2-3 minutes longer.

Hope you all are staying warm & nestled in your home!
Valarie

My Wish List ....

Dear Santa, 
Please find our "wish list" on the chalkboard in the kitchen!! 
See you Christmas Eve!! 
Valarie 

Christmas Joy....

I found this print at Goodwill a few months back. Hung it on the side porch.. I love Christmas and the joy it brings. I hope that your holiday is filled with family & friends! Hugs!

POST SANTA'S FAVORITE COOKIE RECIPE HERE!

Santa is watching over the kitchen area... I am digging through the favorite cookie recipes over the years. What kind of cookie do you leave Santa? Do you leave milk? or a beverage to help Santa brave the snow? Maybe a little spiced eggnog? 

Wishing you all happiness as you prepare for the holidays with family & friends! 

Valarie 

Sharing one of my favorite Christmas ornaments~

Let's have a cup of holiday tea!  I wish you all were close so we could curl up in our favorite chair, tell stories, have a cup of tea and enjoy our friendship. I value each of you - Thanks for stopping by today!
Valarie

McKinney - Home for the Holiday Tour

This is where I will be today.... won't you come join me?

Valarie

Sharing movie night with you....

LOML and I had date night last night and went to the movie to see Everybody's Fine with Robert De Niro, & Drew Barrymore. It was the best sad movie I have seen in a while.(does that make sense?) I think I was expecting something a little different, something more cheery and Christmasy. I thought that Robert De Niro was awesome,  which obviously is not surprising. He was very believable as a father who has lost touch with his children. However if you feel like some cheerful Christmas movie, Everybody's Fine is not it. Take a tissue for sure... 
Hugs.. 
Valarie 


PS... DON'T FORGET THE MCKINNEY CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES IS TOMORROW AS WELL.... I was a docent in one of the homes today. The crowds were unbelievable... come see us - you will be glad you did! 

Treated myself.....

To...  a few baby roses for my favorite little hanging vases in the dining room area! I love these little wall hanging vases... Always perk up the space and ohhh how I love to fill them with roses, daisies, ivy, lemons, limes, mint.. anything goes in these vases! Do you have something in your home that has a favorite spot in your heart???

Giggles..

Valarie

Pioneer Woman in Dallas tonight!! AND I WAS THERE!!

YEP- Ree was here tonight and I went to meet her... me and about 450 others all crammed into Borders! The very cool thing is I got there really early .. and I was 8th in line! She signed my book, we all got the adorable book tour tee shirt (no, you can not buy them!) I was thrilled to meet a few blogging buddies... I finally met LUCINDA, I became fast friends with Becky & Sherry, (#6 & 7in line) and I met Kerri who brought Ree the cutest gift basket ever! (why didn't i think of that?) It was a great time had by all... ENjoy the photos and if you get a chance to go to one of her signings you should.

Hugs to all...

Valarie

Sharing a bit of Christmas cheer-

Hey all... Made these little cups for LOML office yesterday! I have been collecting my favorite christmas mugs through the year. I filled the cup with shredded red foil filler, put in a few candy canes, 2 packages of swiss miss hot cocoa (everyone loves that!) and then a few pieces of candy. Wrapped them with Christmas tissue, tied with tulle- attached a Christmas bell for cheer.  There you have it... cute, inexpensive way to bring joy to a large office!
Jingle!
Valarie

Sharing... my new tea glasses!

Hey all... had to share my finds today from the DOLLAR TREE!! These glasses are adorable for everyday and especially the holidays!  I love the words on them.. Some of the wording on the glasses... Memories are made of these.. hugs, friends, laughter, family, smiles, Home... enjoy the little things!
Hope you run down and pick up a few!
Smiles..

Valarie

Meet my dear friends Tim & Kim ~

I would like to introduce you to Tim & Kim .. please click Christmas to read their story! I wanted  each of you to have a chance to order friends and family gifts while getting something free for you!! This is my favorite place in downtown McKinney for a sweet fix! I took this photo above on Friday at the McKINNEY DICKENS ON THE SQUARE FESTIVAL! Their store was packed! Kids, families, dogs, grandparents all trying to squeeze in the store for one of the 45 speciality popcorns!  
This special offer expires Monday, Dec. 1 -- Be sure and tell them Valarie sent ya!
  
Your purchase must be equal to or greater than $5.65 to receive the Free Popcorn.
1. Go to http://www.momandpopcorn.com
2. Select the items that you want to purchase and add them to your cart (remember, must be equal to or greater than $5.65)
3. Select the Small Bag of Caramel Corn and add to your cart
4. Enter FACEBOOK in the Promo Code space (the small bag of caramel corn must be in your cart for promo code to work properly...and promo code must be upper case)
5. Enter your Contact Info and Payment Method
6. Select the Shipping Method or choose In-Store Pickup
7. Review your order and make sure you see the Promo Code Discount
8. Submit your order and enjoy your Free Caramel Corn

Hugs to all.. 

Valarie 

Hanging Garland....

Hung garland in my living area today. Basic lighted garland, twined in some beautiful red ribbon with some of my favorite red balls and santa ornaments.
I hope the holidays sparkle your imagination and dreams!
Valarie
(CLICK PHOTO TO ENLARGE)

Thanksgiving Wish for you.....

May your stuffing be tasty,
May your turkey be plump,
May your potatoes and gravy have nary a lump,
May your yams be delicious and pies take the prize,
MAY your Thanksgiving dinner stay off your thighs!

I am thankful for each of you that stop by my blog - wishing only the best to you and your families!

From my house to yours!
Blessings!
Valarie

Home for the Holidays in Mckinney! See you there!

Downtown McKinneys premier festival, the 29^th annual Dickens of a Christmas…Home for the Holidays is right around the corner.  An old fashioned Christmas festival with horse drawn carriages, strolling carolers, visits with Santa Claus, the Christmas tree lighting and activities for all ages.  Seasonal music, food and childrens activities provided by local organizations will take center stage during the event.

The event will be held for (3) days (November 27, 28 and 29, 2009).  This festive event will launch on Friday, November 27 with an “Earlier than the Bird” shopping extravaganza followed by festive activities throughout the day leading up to a message from our Mayor, the lighting of the tree and candlelight shopping until 8:00 p.m. Periodically, during the month of December, the shops in downtown McKinney will stay open for extended hours so that customers have a chance to finish all of that holiday shopping in one place with over 100 boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, apparel, gifts and exquisite antiques. Consumers can find the unique and special things that they won’t find anywhere else in downtownMcKinney.   This magical event is free to the public and parking and free shuttle service will be provided.

McKinney Main Street and supporting sponsors will support the local economy by providing festive and interactive activities throughout the busiest shopping weekend of the year, which will in turn promote the heritage of our wonderful city. 

   

Festival Hours

Friday, November 27: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

City of McKinney Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be at 6:15 p.m. at Mitchell Park
Saturday, November 28: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday, November 29: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Where
Historic Downtown McKinney - 111 N. Tennessee St.

Christmas Garland up in Dining Room...

Hey all.. I am on a roll over here at the blue cottage making things all festive. Decorating a bit early this year.. we are going out of town for Thanksgiving, then have lots of festivities planned for the entire month... so trying to complete the projects I can now!
This is what I did tonight. Take simple lighted garland, find you 10 yards of very cute ribbon weave in and out of the garland, then tie your favorite things on the branches. Since my tree and this garland are in my dining room, I used many pieces of silver I collect.. creamers, wine goblets, old forks, old cake server, my babies baby spoons, an old clock, etc.... What do you hang in your garland??
Hugs!
Valarie

Just a little Christmas cheer today!!

Well .. no day of rest around here! WE  LOML worked his tail off today.. started with the raking of the leaves - and more leaves.  Hung all the Christmas lights on the roof lines... then hung the garland around the front door- and then finally as the sun set we flipped the switch to light our little blue cottage!  What did you do today??  Are you in the Christmas spirit?? 

Hugs to all... Valarie