Happy Leap Day

Too cute not to share. If only I had a horse of my own!!!

Relaxation

This month has been HECTIC! I love it and love being busy but sometimes I need to remember to take a day to just chill. Sunday was that day capped off by a gorgeous sunset on my way to my parents house for family dinner. But now it's back to hectic - hoping for a lil reprieve soon.

Special Delivery from Florida

Yesterday I arrived home from work to find a special package at my door.

I love getting things in the mail! This package was extra special as sent with love from my parents who were in Florida trying out the snow bird lifestyle all week.

Delicious fresh oranges and honey from Florida! Thanks mom and dad!!!

What Tempts You?

Blackberry Farm which is my dream US Getaway is having a contest this month were you post a picture of what tempts you. The top finalists then compete and the photo with the most votes as of Friday wins a chance for a trip to the farm for their photography event. Blackberry Farm and Photography combined – swoony!!!! I am a finalist and REALLY REALLY need you to PLEASE VOTE FOR ME. Just click here and like the picture of the bonfire with s’mores. Thanks a million!

Gambler Half Marathon

After several sluggish months it’s time to whip myself back into shape. I just signed up for my second half Marathon this spring. This one will actually fall first – thank goodness I already started training a few weeks ago!

Hoping for a PR this year, I would love to break 2 hours but just not sure it’s possible. Worth a solid shot though. And a great excuse to purchase new running shoes!

Vintage Sparkles

Grandma’s jewelry worn on Valentines Day for my date with Grandpa.

I love vintage jewelry – I especially cherish the pieces that my grandpa has gifted me.

Bake this Cake!

You will not be disappointed. It starts out with all your usual ingredients.

But there is a twist, a surprise of sorts:

Beets! In the cake and the frosting!!!

The beets give the frosting the coolest hot pink color and honestly the taste was amazing. Didn’t taste like vegetable cake at all but instead quite delicious. I originally found the recipe here. If you want a printable recipe go to Joy the Baker.

Happy Valentines Day!!!

I might not have a Valentine in the traditional sense but I have a mom that is amazingly talented and LOVES me. This was her Valentines gift to me:

I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. I had found a similar (although not nearly as cute and fancy) version on Pinterest and hinted not so subtly that I would sure such an afghan as a keepsake for years to come.

I can’t believe she managed to crochet it in time for Valentine’s Day and am amazed at how gorgeous it is. Something I will have for years and cherish. By far my best Valentines gift ever.

What is your best Valentines gift ever? Any big grand Valentines plans? I have dinner plans with the best date any girl could ever ask for – my 84 year old Grandpa! He’s taking me out to a fancy dinner at Jack Binions!

Roses Brighten the Day

Leftover flowers from a recent work social still grace my nightstand. I LOVE fresh flowers – can’t wait for summer and endless fresh flowers.

Wanna Go Bowling???

I love bowling as its simple, fun , and no one really cares if you are amazing or awkward. The perfect activity for a group or even just two people. I had the pleasure of bowling in Tyndall, SD at the cutest lil vintage bowling alley ever.

You even had to keep your own score! Anyone else have a love of bowling?

The Princess

Love this crazy little kitty to death which probably makes one of those Crazy Old Single Cat Ladies…..

Snowy Mornings

Somehow a coating of snow makes everything look magical. A few quick Iphone/Instagram pics showcase my backyard yesterday morning with a blanket of snow.

Exercise in the Country

I drug my parents out for a walk this weekend since the snow never came and I was feeling better. My dad was extra thrilled about this walk, but hey at least he got to take a beverage along!

It’s always great to get some fresh air and enjoy nature’s beauty.


I love how different the landscape looks throughout the year and the changing seasons.


This year I have also watched the river overflow its boundaries and thankfully slowly receding back.

Frosty

The massive snow storm forecasted for Niobrara never occurred. I was a lil bummed I didn't get a winter wonderland.

However, Sunday afternoon a layer of frost was covering the trees and hills. It was gorgeous.


Little slivers of ice covered everything.


I caught a glimpse of myself after one stop along the road to capture a pretty view and had to laugh.


Council Bluffs is coated in a gorgeous blanket of snow - I need to snap pictures before it melts away. On a positive note I think I have finally gotten rid of my nasty cough/cold and have re-entered society.

The Calm Before the Storm

Today is another gorgeous weather day for February! However we have possibly 10+ inches of snow headed our way starting tomorrow! Hello winter!


A small part of me is excited about the possibility of being snowed in by the fire all snuggled up with a glass of hot chocolate. Or strapping on snowshoes to explore the winter wonderland. Until this storm hits I plan to enjoy the great weather and pretty views and hopefully recover from this nasty cough/cold whatever it is I have acquired.

Rustic Water Pump as Art???

We need spice in our cabin. Until we can accumulate neat paintings or other works of art - random photos I have snapped of the farm will have to suffice. This hydrant is one contender. But debating which of the photos would be best….


It’s going to hang over our couch and be fairly large in size. Any thoughts??

I am thinking the more close up shots as then more artsy and not just a random photograph? Plus love that it says "Iowa" as our homestate. Also hate the power line that shows up in one of the photos....