The Good Life

Set Back for a Special Occasion

2010-10-03T13:02:00.018-07:00

Celebration 101:
Enjoy an incredible bottle of 1997 Terra Valentine Cabernet that you have waited to sip for a LONG time. We got this bottle on one of our fabulous trips to Napa...this vineyard is off the beaten path on Spring Mountain Road. Along with Terra Valentine, we found many wineries that became some of our favorites along Spring Mountain Road-- Pride,Cain and Smith Madrone to name a few. Smith Madrone has a grassy lawn area perfect for a picnic lunch with dramatic views of the Napa Valley. A special place.
Actually, most folks think that Disneyland is the Happiest Place on Earth.
I say it's Napa.

Our celebration was two-fold.

10/2/1999
11 years ago I met Joe at an ASU football game. I recall it was a day game against UCLA and about 150 degrees in the stadium. The rest is history.

We also celebrated our newest pride and joy,
Kennedy Elise Moreno
Born Sept.24, 2010 in Boulder, CO.

Besides being beautiful, she is extremely intelligent.
Grandparents are the first to notice these attributes.

Here's To New Life.
Good Life.

Isn't That Interesting

2010-08-06T11:59:00.007-07:00

Combine one of my favorite songs of all time with this man--

One of the most interesting and influential people I have ever had the privilege of seeing was Jim Rohn. I love his teaching, his mannerisms, his voice,--- just everything about him rings true with me. He has a saying, "Isn't That Interesting?" for use when you are inclined to say something you might be sorry for later. It works wonders!

Unfortunately, he passed away this year. How wonderful that we have his words on CD or written down to savor and share for generations to come.

I should read this article every day....

What Constitutes a Good Life? by Jim Rohn

The ultimate expression of life is not a paycheck. The ultimate expression of life is not a Mercedes. The ultimate expression of life is not a million dollars or a bank account or a home. Here's the ultimate expression of life in my opinion, and that is living the good life. Here's what we must ask constantly: "What for me would be a good life?" And you have to keep going over and over the list—a list including areas such as spirituality, economics, health, relationships and recreation. What would constitute a good life? I've got a short list.

Number one, productivity. You won't be happy if you don't produce. The game of life is not rest. We must rest, but only long enough to gather strength to get back to productivity. What's the reason for the seasons and the seeds, the soil and the sunshine, the rain and the miracle of life? It's to see what you can do with it—to try your hand. Other people have tried their hand; here's what they did. You try your hand to see what you can do. So part of life is productivity.

Next are good friends. Friendship is probably the greatest support system in the world. Don't deny yourself the time to develop this support system. Nothing can match it. It's extraordinary in its benefit. Friends are those wonderful people who know all about you and still like you. A few years ago I lost one of my dearest friends. He died at age 53—heart attack. David is gone, but he was one of my very special friends. I used to say of David that if I was stuck in a foreign jail somewhere accused unduly and if they would allow me one phone call, I would call David. Why? He would come and get me. That's a friend—somebody who would come and get you. Now we've all got casual friends. And if you called them they would say, "Hey, if you get back, call me and we'll have a party." So you've got to have both, real friends and casual friends.

Next on the list of a good life is your culture. Your language, your music, the ceremonies, the traditions, the dress. All of that is so vitally important that you must keep it alive. In fact, it is the uniqueness of all of us that when blended together brings vitality, energy, power, influence, uniqueness and rightness to the world.

Next is your spirituality. It helps to form the foundation of the family that builds the nation. And make sure you study, practice and teach. Don't be careless about the spiritual part of your nature; it's what makes us who we are, different from animal, dogs, cats, birds and mice. Spirituality.

Next, here's what my parents taught me: Don't miss anything. Don't miss the game. Don't miss the performance, don't miss the movie, don't miss the show, don't miss the dance. Go to everything you possibly can. Buy a ticket to everything you possibly can. Go see everything and experience all you possibly can. This has served me so well to this day. Just before my father died at age 93, if you were to call him at 10:30 or 11:00 at night, he wouldn't be home. He was at the rodeo, he was watching the kids play softball, he was listening to the concert, he was at church; he was somewhere every night.

Live a vital life. Here's one of the reasons why. If you live well, you will earn well. If you live well, it will show in your face, it will show in the texture of your voice. There will be something unique and magical about you if you live well. It will infuse not only your personal life but also your business life. And it will give you a vitality nothing else can give.

Next are your family and the inner circle. Invest in them and they'll invest in you. Inspire them and they'll inspire you. With your inner circle take care of the details. When my father was still alive, I used to call him when I traveled. He'd have breakfast most every morning with the farmers. Little place called The Decoy Inn out in the country where we lived in Southwest Idaho. So Papa would go there and have breakfast and I'd call him just to give him a special day. Now, if I was in Israel, I'd have to get up in the middle of the night, but it only took five minutes, 10 minutes. So I'd call Papa and they'd bring him the phone. I'd say, "Papa I'm in Israel." He'd say, "Israel! Son, how are things in Israel?" He'd talk real loud so everybody could hear—my son's calling me from Israel. I'd say, "Papa, last night they gave me a reception on the rooftop underneath the stars overlooking the Mediterranean." He'd say, "Son, a reception on the rooftop underneath the stars overlooking the Mediterranean." Now everybody knows the story. It only took 5-10 minutes, but what a special day for my father, age 93.

If a father walks out of the house and he can still feel his daughter's kiss on his face all day, he's a powerful man. If a husband walks out of the house and he can still feel the imprint of his wife's arms around his body, he's invincible all day. It's the special stuff with the inner circle that makes you strong and powerful and influential. So don't miss that opportunity. Here's the greatest value. The prophet said, "There are many virtues and values, but here's the greatest: one person caring for another." There is no greater value than love. Better to live in a tent on the beach with someone you love than to live in a mansion by yourself. One person caring for another, that's one of life's greatest expressions.

So make sure in your busy day to remember the true purpose and the reasons you do what you do. May you truly live the kind of life that will bring the fruit and rewards that you desire.

Life is good....and interesting! -D

Frugal

2010-07-25T11:45:00.002-07:00

Had lunch with my sweetie at this place....

Two Hippies Beach House
They take extra care with their ingredients and try to be as organic as they can be. They are expanding to a lot of little spots here.
Two Hippies Breakfast Joint
Two Hippies Dropped Out of College and Opened a Pizzaria

you get the idea.

Good food, extremely casual, low $$. They have a special from 4-7 for 89 cent steak tacos which got me thinking....if you were on an EXTREME budget, you could eat there pretty inexpensively....which reminded me that I always think that if I were homeless, I would save up any money that I had for a yearly Costco membership. A person and their family could eat there every day on all of the food tasting displays.

Indians and Bagpipes

2010-07-17T19:45:00.001-07:00

My son, Aaron graduated from the University of Oklahoma in May.

It's a big deal for me. First of all, I always assumed my children would grow up, go to college, and become successful adults. Well, Aaron gave me just a little bit of a challenge in his high school years....and I was slapped with the "reality check" that kids don't always do what their parents have planned for them. (Duh) I really struggled with this, though. I never even thought is was a remote possibility--and to have to let this go was tough, **TUF** tough. I really didn't know if he would graduate from high school, let alone go to college. Not because he couldn't handle the education piece, mind you....he is very smart. However, he made some, shall I say, poor choices in extra-curricular activities that caused him to have to go through a harder route than he could have. So, in May 2010 he made it through the School of Mass Communications and Journalism as a Sooner with a degree in Advertising.

Now--the festivities! Only in Oklahoma could you attend this event and see a bunch of Bagpipers fully kilten clad and bagpiping up a storm
while an entourage of Indian chiefs in full regalia come marching down the aisle.

I will say that I enjoyed the speakers at this commencement so much! The first evening was a Pulitzer Prize winning author and presidential historian named Doris Kerns Goodwin. She was one incredible lady and speaker!
She was so interesting and talked a mile a minute and never even looked at her notes or anything! Full of great stories....she also knows a TON about the Brooklyn Dodgers! Quite accomplished, very educational, enjoyable...just all around special treat for what is usually kind of a dreary pomp and circumstance kind of event!!
The next day was for the individual college...and the speaker was an OU alum that invented the Happy Meal! It was a very interesting story of how it came to be....(too bad that it was a precursor to the rampant childhood obesity we face today-not to put a damper on things--I'm just sayin'....)

Anyway...it's on to bigger and better things for him! Austin, Texas is where is he heading now! Congrats to Aaron!

You Can't Fence Time

2010-05-28T08:00:00.002-07:00

What were you doing 30 years ago?
Thirty years ago today for me was life changing. I was 3 weeks out of college, almost 23 years old. I was scared, confident, excited, hopeful, ready.
You never forget that moment when they hand you that wrapped up, 8lb.6oz bundle and your life is forever different in ways you have never imagined.

Today is the big Three Oh for my beautiful daughter, Lindsay.
Lindsay. The name I thought NO ONE would have but her. :-)
Famous nose, freckle face (that's how many friends she has), big blue eyes and now a family of her own. I thought it would be appropriate to share bits and pieces of how she has grown and changed the past 30 years.

Do I see moves like Boston here?

A fashion show model at almost 5:

She helped our dog deliver 2 litters..this was the largest pup-Sir Charles Barkey. How about the large Suns hat Aaron is sporting?

Aaahhhh..the 3rd set of braces.

DRAMA--- Cherokee heritage I guess.

First grandbaby and GRAM

Going to all the trouble of a spiral perm

It started here:

It went way farther up than this looks before they came down!!!

Nutcracker Suite Tonight

Broken Arm after the top bunk mishap!

Asymetrical Haircut

Time for bed but you had other ideas

Orange Crush

White on White Handsewn Quilt from Gram

Martina

I had stacks and stacks of photos to rummage thru...she was the first baby you know.
Awesome memories. All of those feelings she now describes for her own little ones I have all over again as I look at this third of a century.

I am so proud of her. She is fun, smart, a college graduate and almost done with her masters, a good mother, has found a really good man to share her life with, and she loves God.

My little pony-tailed girl grown up to be a woman
Now she's gone in the blink of an eye.

Happy 30th to my little girl.
No, you can't stop time.

Pretty Tall

2010-05-12T13:00:00.004-07:00

How high is an elephants eye? I'm not sure my corn is quite that high but it is growing and sprouting and showing some husks and everything! Very exciting experiment!
I am loving this garden goodness and Martha Stewartness. Somehow it just seems to taste better than what you purchase at the store. Salad last night with some fresh green beens mixed in- YUM!

No, Thank You

2010-05-11T08:30:00.003-07:00

Our last full day with 16 month old twins:

Saturday.
You know what that means.
Candy Day.

But not just an ordinary old thing will do...we all load up and make our first stop at Dutch Bros. where the line was long so Pappa Joe just walked up and got our java.

On to our destination. But first a quick stop into CLEAN FREAK CAR WASH.
Not a real good way to show your grand daughters you love them...They DID NOT LIKE IT a bit. So we cranked up Eric Clapton REAL LOUD and made it thru! Good bye and no thank you very much.
Were they still talking to us???

Our supremely trendy and uber cool spot where the in crowd shows fashionably around 10 am on Saturday..... La Grande Orange
They have quite possibly the best scone in America. In addition, many other tasty morsels of deliciousness and a great spot to people watch.

Back at the ranch and time to clean up the house. How was I to know that to Teagan and Boston....this is "The DEVIL"

The Dyson Devil they DID NOT LIKE at all. Ah, No Thank You.

We survived all of that to go to Partay with our good friends from Oregon, Ron and Barbara!
New friends, just my size!

Grill and Chill
Hostess Connie
It was a fun time, chasing the dog, no one fell in the pool, Boston put a handful of potting soil in her mouth, and burgers, too. Makes me tired just thinking about it! Mom and Dad come back tomorrow. I am so blessed to have had this time with them.

Pappa Joe & Ninny-8
T&B-0

It's All Good

2010-04-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Days 6& 7 in a life with 16 month old twins:

Everyone seems to be adjusting to our new schedule....so curiosity brings Boston to the big dog kennel! Compared to Tater's, this is the Taj Mahal!

Ninny discovered a great Direct TV station called "Playground" for playtime today! Background music just makes the day go better! Wow, it's been a while since she heard Happy Happy Joy Joy or Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

Daily run to Dutch Bros.
BMOC - James--- Big man on Campus

Who got pudding for dessert?
Here all 3 decide to bang their cups on the table at once....over and over....and over.
The War Zone
Somehow the glass of cabernet at the end of the evening makes it all good.

Day 7 was Pappa Joe's day off, so Ninny got to go to work for a while and he held down the fort. A few errands in the afternoon and Mr. James came over to play again.
All three were pretty darn happy with the Orange Creamsickle drinks Pappa Joe made them with orange juice and ice cream.

Ninny & Pappa Joe-7
t&b-0

Think Fast

2010-04-28T22:00:00.002-07:00

Day 5 in a life with 16 month old twins:

BFF Linus and morning get together

An early wake up and nap took us to 'Tarshay' about noon time. Now, when Ninny showed up in the parking lot and got the big wake up call that the shopping carts only had 2 leg holes she immediately jumped into her survival mode and figured out that the stroller in the back of the Beast would be the only way she would be able to corral these girls once inside. Her cat like reflexes got the stroller opened all on her own without any help from strangers- absolute Mensa material. So- Teagan had a dupe a dupe (the correct name for a messy diaper -a la Poppy--THE TEAGUE) which was changed at the back of the Beast in record time. But the wet wipes she pulled from the diaper bag in the front seat were antibacterial for face and hands....yikes...would this work for diaper areas??? She had the bare butt out and had only seconds to make an executive decision. Boom.
Good to Go
Got to hear from all the shoppers how cute the girls were all thru the store and back in the car....AHHHHHH....Mensa Ninny had left the previous dupe a dupe diaper in the car. 92 degrees in Phoenix. Get the drift?

Apres Shopping we stopped at....you guessed it.....
Dutch Bros
Home for naps----then------Cousin James!!! 2.5 years of F-U-N !

He showed off his physical skills for the girls-- PUSH UPS!!

He's Home!!!!
Pappa Joe's Gonna Get You!

Then a little "Monkeys Jumpin On the Bed" time

3 Men in a Tub
I will tell you right now that Boston holds her own in any splash contest!

Whew!
Ninny & Pappa Joe-5
t&b-0

Dueling Pianos

2010-04-27T22:00:00.003-07:00

Day 4 in a life with 16 month old twins:

Introducing Ferrante and Teicher

I see a darling piano recital with these two playing four hands in my future!

After the concert, we went clubbing!...--- Ahwatukee Country Club that is! (Just to show off their cuteness to everyone).
Nancy didn't pinch Boston...although it looks that way.

On the way home....just a quick run thru Dutch Bros.

Then just play until pooped!

Teagan only put one rock in her mouth.

I get a quote a day on my email....todays was fitting:
"Many times, when I was having a hard time with one of my children, God would always remind me that He was having a harder time with me than I was with them." -Charlie "Tremendous" Jones

Ninny & Pappa Joe-4
t&b-0

Been There, Done That

2010-04-26T22:00:00.004-07:00

Day 3 in a life with 16 month old twins:
SIPPY CUPS & COFFEE-the perfect way to start the day!

Ms.Teagan woke up exactly on time and while Boston was a sleepy head, T got to enjoy her morning commute with her milk on the car all by herself!

Morning Entertainment
The Dog Bed
-note that Boston is still sporting the grape boogie wipes.... Their BFF Linus gets his love

Whenever you go to get the girls from their beds they point out this picture of the "beebees" (MY BEEBEES!!)
AWWWWW.

Now the real test.
After lunch, fresh clothes on. Outfits same but different. Check.
Socks and Shooooos. Check. (God bless whoever invented velcro)
Sippy cups with Jooooosh. Check.
Camera & Cell Phone & Keys. Check.
Start up the Beast to cool it down with rear air pointing just right. Check.
Grab diaper bag that will just barely qualify for the airlines under 50 lb. rule. Check.
Herd the girls toward the car to begin strap in. This takes a while due to clipping and snapping and tightening of various lock down mechanisms. Boston waits her turn for the same. After that...both have their pink laptops and Joosh in their respective cup holders. Check.
Whew.
Now we head out to here!
Yep, Ninny got her Dutch Bros. coffee with 2% and the girls get to show off their cuteness.
I turned around to check on them as we pulled away to a total DEJA VU-- Teagan had her finger stuck up her nose while sucking her thumb... lovely.
It took me back 25 years and I remembered her Uncle David in his car seat- smiling/happy.. sucking his thumb and finger cruising up his nose--- I used to tell him to stop it or one nostril will be bigger than the other when he grew up. Guess it worked as he is fine today, equal nostrils and all.

Hooray.....the troops arrive.......it's AUNT B!!
She and her roomie, Alisa, took to doin' their babysittin' thang in a big way! They played, went for a walk, had a bath and best of all--- look at the toys all put away perfect and everything! Gotta love Aunt B not from Mayberry!

It was a delicious day.

Ninny & Pappa Joe 3
t&b 0

Double Your Pleasure

2010-04-25T22:00:00.004-07:00

double your fun
with double good,
double good,
double twin fun!!

Day 2 in a life with 16 month old twins:

Back Dat Thing Up The girls can come downstairs backwards on their tummys

and after breakfast and playtime....maybe just
CHILLIN' ON THE COUCH.....NOT!!
Sundays are good GARDEN days....and this garden is going CRAZY!!!!

Look what Sweet Pea Popped Up in the garden----BOSTON!!

A walk out front with BFF's Lucy & Linus (they are besties due to Boston sharing entire handfuls of Cheerios with Linus at snacktime) B loves sitting in the rocks but doesn't want to put her hands on them to get back up!
Afternoon naptime ended with a bit of DRAMA!! Teagan had taken off her diaper and soaked the pack n play thru while Boston had filled her pants so much that a big glop ran down her leg and left a nice dollop (and I thought I used that adjective only for ice cream) on the upstairs landing!(no time to run down for the camera!) Well, a little bath time BEFORE dinner never hurt anyone, right?
A girl can never have too many SHOOOOSE....Teagan was fond of the jewelry.

Bedtime was a happy time for all of us today. :)
Note to self: never put babies down for a nap without pants or shorts OVER the diaper.

Pappa Joe & Ninny-2
t&b-0

Two Times

2010-04-24T15:32:00.034-07:00

Day 1 in a life with 16 month old twins:

Forgot the sunglasses for the trip to drop off Mom and Dad at Phoenix Sky Harbor International airport (because dad has thug dark tint on his truck and this is the first time seeing the sun in about 4 months)! On the way back to the ranch, a stop for Ninny's java at Dutch Bros. The girls will get to know all the folks that work there this week!

Nothing better than looking out the windows to see what's out there--

Play time wouldn't be complete without the grape scented "boogie wipes"-- I swear that's what they are called-- and these two love to huff 'em.

After a super duper nap and lunch-- the girls are off with Pappa Joe and Ninny to their very first festival down at Tempe Lake Beach Park....how apropos that the Moreno gals go to the Salsa Festival!! Now it took a mechanical genius to get this stroller to unlock and into the right position for take off since we didn't take a lesson before the parents left us, but we made it!

After a thorough dose of sunscreen as these girls are as fair as Snow White, we listened to the band,Chadwicks, for a while....not salsa music or la cucaracha or anything, but old tunes everyone knew. Miss Boston LOVED running around and seeing everyone...persnickity Teagan wasn't too fond of grass on her feet so she stuck close by
Enough sun and fun for everyone..Joe especially enjoyed all the HUGE maracas on display......gotta get a photo with the Giant BEER bottles.

Hey- It's Candy Day! Saturday is Candy Day! When my kids were little I had Candy Day on Saturday to keep them from driving me crazy for candy all week long..let me explain this--- growing up we were friends with the Bruners...and in this little town they kind of owned the local grocery store. In their home they had these cannisters on their kitchen counter of different kinds of candy and whenever you went to their home it was just a drooling experience, but they had a rule that you could only eat the candy on Saturdays...and they never tried to sneak any out or anything like that! So when I had my own kids...and they always wanted candy....I reverted to Candy Day!

It's all about controlling the insanity!!!
So we stopped thru Dutch Bros. for this....
Dutch Freeze! Now it looks a little funny because at the top of the straw.....for your candy day pleasure.....whippped cream! YUMMO!(Rachel Ray would say) When it was gone...here is Teagan's take
Arriving back at the ranch, we let the girls show their maturity and walk to the door from the car. Here's Boston...she loves to just walk right out on the rock and just scoot all around in it while her sissy can't walk beyond the crack in the side walk....she freezes and we help her across each crack....maybe she heard the rhyme--"don't step on the cracks or you'll break your mothers back." Once inside she found herself (literally) and gave kisses and kisses to the 'baby' in the mirror
After nap and a little dinner it's time to
PARTAY

After a not so good idea to try a quick shower, we made it to a little get together in the Foothills.

The girls spent most of the evening going up and down this step....mesmerizing!!

One day down....one fantastic day

Ninny & Pappa Joe 1
t&b 0

Winners!

2010-04-21T17:00:00.003-07:00

Yep, we won a very wonderful 4 days at the Loew's Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson through Univera! We were joined there by about 475 other folks from across North America. It was so nice to be pampered and spoiled all the while getting to know so many people.

The first day there we got to play golf on the lovely Ventana Canyon course with the CEO of Univera, Regan Miles.
He was so gracious and a great golfer, too! He birdied #1 and #10--- great fun to watch. Joe beat me that day and hasn't let me forget about that, for sure. I stunk it up but still had a great time.

The weather was perfect...sunny and warm. The last day we had a team building event where Joe got to exercise his big and versatile skills in the blow up sumo wrestling, joust and bungee race.

Ahhhhhh Baldoson
The sumo wig wouldn't fit his head and his opponent was a well endowed woman that he promptly threw down out of the circle.

Tons of fun but the next day he wasn't movin' around so well-- maybe it was the mechanical bull that took him down! Ride 'em Tex

It was a welcome rest for the two of us as well as inspiration to grow ourselves as well as our business! Univera really is a self improvement program with a compensation plan attached!

Cardinale

2010-04-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

3/31/01 My wedding day!

For our anniversary celebration, instead of going out to dinner, I told Joe I would rather have a 90 day plan at the gym that includes a training session for us each month. I guess he was good with that as we are scheduled to begin this Saturday with trainer Steve...hello sore muscles and goodbye extra fat!

Oh yeah...soon to be me.....(sort of!)

So....I actually cooked!! Pretty spectacular and special since Joe does most of the cooking in this house. He just makes up his recipes as he goes along. However...I had this great dish in Portland a while back and decided to try it for myself! Cabbage just doesn't have that heavenly "aire" to it (no pun intended) --- but it really is delicious!

Cabbage Lasagne

1 med to large head of cabbage
1 T. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 med. onion, chopped
1 c. sliced mushrooms
1 lb. ground beef
1 6 oz. can tomato paste
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 t.dried oregano
1-2 t. salt
1-2 t. black pepper
1 c. grated mozzarella
1 c. cottage cheese
1/2 c. grated Parmesan

Preheat oven to 350. Wash cabbage and remove tough outer leaves. Cut head in half. Carefully peel back the leaves, trying to keep them intact; these will serve as the "noodles". Steam in steamer until nearly tender- 3-5 minutes. Set aside.

Saute garlic, onion and mushrooms in olive oil until onion is translucent. Add ground beef and brown thoroughly. Add tomato sauce, paste, and seasonings and combine well.

Coat a 9x12 baking pan with olive oil. Line the bottom with cabbage leaves. Top with half of the meat mixture. Add a third of mozzarella and half of cottage cheese. Add another layer of cabbage leaves, the remaining half of the meat mix, another third of the mozzarella, and remaining half of the cottage cheese. Top with remaining mozzarella and finish by scattering the Parmesan on top.

Bake, covered, for about 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5-10 minutes more.

Our garden provided the makings for the salad! We selected curly, red leaf and romaine lettuces as well as some spinach. Oh, yes--- we added a few sprigs of basil, too! YUM!
It was at this point in the evening that I had my "I grow my own food just like Martha Stewart" moment. (even without the New Hampshire carriage house)

AAAHHHHH- the best part of the meal---decanted perfection!!
We paired our feast with an incredible bottle of wine we set back several years ago--- a 2002 Cardinale cabernet. This particular vineyard has scrumptious, big red wines and a fantastic tasting experience.
This one fit the occasion and was smooth "like buttah". If you like reds and are ever in Napa.....do not miss it!

Joe brought home the flowers we had at our wedding....very romantic.

9 down and about 48 more to go.

Mary, Mary

2010-03-22T12:03:00.025-07:00

Mary Mary, Quite Contrary, How Does Your Garden Grow?

Plan the 8x8 foot space. Rent a massive big machine and get your 6'5" husband to till it up and add a little mulch to try and help the cause.

Build a box for the raised bed. Good to have husbands for this, too.

Add 30 HUGE bags of super duper garden soil that will produce giant vegetables.

Plant the tomatoes (roma and celebrity), lettuce (romaine, red leaf & curly green leaf), herbs (basil, mint, rosemary and cilantro), strawberries, peppers (red & yellow bell and jalepeno), zucchini, yellow squash, spinach, green beans, cantelope and one stalk of corn. Whew!

Always good to have help from a ginger haired grandson in plantin' the strawberries.

Wait a while and see what happens!!

YUM!

The Perfect Day

2010-02-24T14:00:00.002-07:00

My friend, Susie, came to visit from Portland. She is a fun gal that has her own business selling Cabi clothing. We had a couple evenings of fun where all my friends could try on all the clothes and just play dress up. :)

During her visit we had A Perfect Day

7:45 Wake up and leisurely enjoy morning coffee in your pj's all the while chatting about your family and years of memories.

9:30 Go through my closet piece by piece and let her "purge" all the frocks that looked good back in the day....maybe. I would say trust had been accomplished at this point.

11:00 Put on some make up to head out for lunch. Jump into a very sexy white 350Z convertible and enjoy the fresh Arizona scenery and sunshine.

Now you must know, at this point it is non-weather. This happens when you are not cold, you are not hot, there is no wind and you are entirely, perfectly comfortable.

12:15 We arrive for lunch at The Royal Palm. The valet greets us with a smile and comments on how "stylin" we are. perfect.

One of the best spots in a city full of nice resorts is T Cooks. Our lunch was savory and completed with a glass of dry rose (you have to try it) for Susie and predictable but scrumptious cab for me.

1:45 Back in the Z to head out to the ShiShi Scottsdale Fashion Square mall. Since Susie has a "passion for fashion" to say the least, I knew she would LOVE this place. We head down to the perfume counter at Nordies to try a new scent as we walked around the stores, perusing the spring sandal styles in the shoe salon, and strolling our way to the store where my joy is to feel the purses(like buttah) as they are definitely WAY out of my price range. Pressing on, we got to Nieman's where Susie found what she was looking for- a lovely lingerie to put "the girls" where they should be....perfect.

3:00 Weary from mall overstimulation, we headed home, but stopped at my FAV coffee place-- DUTCH BROS. The girl there commented on how much she loved our style.(exactly what two fifty-somethings want to hear!) Again, perfect.

3:45 We arrive home to prepare for the Cabilicious party. I turn on my IPOD and the Steely Dan tune Hey 19 comes on.....PERFECTOMUNDO! When that happens you are instantly transported into a good place.

7:00 Friends descend and go crazy throwing clothes everywhere and trying on everything. Hallelujah for a little spandex I say. ...perfect

Perfect Days End note to self: Aahhhhh....relaxing and enjoyable and now an even better friendship.

Life is partly what we make it, and partly what is made by the friends we choose.-Hsich

Get Motivated!

2010-02-08T17:00:00.002-07:00

Last week I attended the Get Motivated seminar here in Phoenix. It was held at two venues an hour apart where they helicoptered the speakers in to the arena. It was an interesting day...overall it was a very patriotic day for me.

First up was Mr. Congeniality and Good Looking of the NFL, Kurt Warner.

Unfortunately, I was HERE.

It took me 2hours and 15 minutes to get to the arena due to a massive traffic jam that stopped Phoenix commuters in their tracks due to a motor home roll over in the median of I-10. (The older couple and their little dog were okay.) So I missed Kurt, but he was good according to my friends.

Next up--- Rudy Giuliani

He spoke on leadership. He noted that leaders are made, educated, developed, and stressed professional and personal development. His mentor while he was a prosecutor told him to prepare 4 hours for every hour in court. He told a great story of 9-11 where many of the emergency plans they used for this horrible disaster were really many different preparations for other things....and he also told us his campaign slogan when he ran for mayor of NYC---"I Can't Do Worse". HA! Loved that! He also talked about how in this information age we are bombarded with so much information= information overload!! He said it is important to:
1.Read
2.Listen (you learn when you listen)
3.Debate (this helps develop ideas and your ideology)
4.Write (goals/meetings/journals)
5.Think (take the time to have quiet)

Onward to

Laura Bush
She had a professionally written speech and she delivered it very well! She looked perfectly coiffed. There were heartwarming stories of being in the White House on 9-11 and watching the news in Senator Ted Kennedy's office. She also told of finally seeing her husband in a place below the White House late that night....she talked of how she felt when others criticized her husbands very difficult decisions--- she said after all of their years together she "knew" what kind of person she was and what kind of person George was and the decisions that were made were always with the absolute best interest of America. She is still promoting reading for children.

I really enjoyed Steve Forbes. He is a great communicator. He discussed how our economy got to where it is and his ideas to bring it back. He said we need to do two things: Stabilize the U.S.Dollar and Reduce Taxes. He expounded on the need to repair the Federal Income Tax Code (because it is about 500 gazillion pages long leaving no one able to follow all the information) and suggested that we need a 17% flat tax. My feeling is that we are in for an incredible tax crunch that will not fix the problem.

Then this guy

You just kind of sit up and take notice when the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, former Secretary of State, General Colin Powell takes the stage! He was enjoyable and told how life is different now than when he walked down a red carpet to his private plane that took him to all places in the world. He also told stories about Soviet President Gorbachev during the Reagan administration. He said to look through the windshield, not the rear view mirror!

This was the only speaker by video feed....Steve Nash

When asked how to stay motivated, Steve said to love what you do and to build in work habits to pull you through times you don't feel motivated! He said to compete with yourself and strive to improve and critique yourself.

This was the gal that put the seminar together, Tamara Lowe.

She was a good presenter. Her encouragement was to GET PAST YOUR PAST! Don't worry about what people think of you. Losers make excuses! She also discussed the spiritual side of success. She said we all have a sense of destiny, that we are here for a purpose and we are to be world changers. She said to ask ourselves: "What is the problem the I am here to answer?" I guess she used to be a drug user/dealer...and now a motivational speaker. She ended her presentation with this "rap"--

There were a couple other speakers there, mostly financial guys regarding investing with separate seminars you could sign up for. Oh yes, Zig Ziglar was there with his daughter....I had seen him about 8 years ago. He speaks such great truths! He said to do the right thing.....and many benefits will come from that. He also said that money cannot buy a home, piece of mind or a good nights sleep. His final thought shared of course, was "you can have everything you want if you help other people get what they want."

In all it was a good day, a day where they talked about the great country that America is, and how proud everyone should be of our military. I enjoyed getting to see and hear from successful people. Now to take what I heard, learn some good things and be able to put it into practice!

Ta Da

2010-01-24T17:00:00.001-07:00

This is something I hadn't seen in a LONG LONG time.....the top of my desk!! I actually love this furniture I got from Pottery Barn about 5 years ago but I had forgotten what it looked like under the MOUNDS of paper!!!

I would guess that this should be an extremely productive week with a streamlined and efficient, sparkling clean desk top and all.

The next victims will be the drawers, file cabinet and shelves!! Look out!

A Big Shout Out

2010-01-13T18:00:00.002-07:00

Wow! Can you believe these numbers? All of this in the worst recession year since the great depression? Our company is taking off!!

Side note: did you see the gal in the green coat at about 1:10????

Joe and I just finished a fabulous, inspiring, motivating, challenging, fulfilling and fun Univera weekend right here in Phoenix along with about 750 other leaders called Go Diamond.

We are looking for a few more business partners. The global expansion this year opens up all kinds of possibilities! Personally, I hope to find a way to grow into Australia--how fun would that be to travel 'down under' and spread the great health benefits we enjoy with these products and give financial opportunity as well! I am so thankful for all of the new friends we are making. Let me know if you, or someone you know, might be interested!!

Why do my bangs always split like that????

Recess

2009-12-31T11:00:00.008-07:00

Teagan enjoyed her very first time on the swing at the school playground! (Boston, however, made it clear that she would rather wait until a later time to do that.)

Just about time to go to the mall. Doesn't Lindsay look happy?

Where does Boston like to play? The best corner at Ninny's house.

Holiday vacations make for a good life.

Jurrasic Christmas

2009-12-27T11:00:00.003-07:00

This is what it looks like when SANTA comes to your house on Christmas morning and brings you a dinosaur because that's what you told him at the mall that you wanted. How cool is that?

This is what it looks like from inside your kennel because you weren't allowed out to greet SANTA when he came to the house.

HO HO HO GOOD LIFE

Foodies

2009-12-14T15:54:00.007-07:00

Introducing The Grub Club

This boisterous crew gets together about once a quarter (if Tina- the little one in the center isn't too busy with various engagements) for a dinner out. Each couple takes a turn choosing a restaurant where the others haven't been. Our city has a ton of great places, so it's been a hit so far. This evening was at Pasta Bar... a new, trendy downtown eatery. There was excellent homemade pasta- my carbonara was magnifique. We ended up at The Turf Restaurant & Pub dancing to a very fun sort of rockabilly band called Jump Back Brothers. They opened for Brian Setzer this week-- very fun stuff.

Get Down for a Good Life.

Carving a Memory

2009-12-10T11:59:00.020-07:00

Yep...when I hear this song I know it is OFFICIAL.... Christmastime is here! Now why on earth does this song move me into holiday mode? (plus it has to be by Andy Williams) My all time favorite activity in high school was choir. I was one of the accompanists and this particular song had an incredible arrangement that sounded great. It was a very challenging piece for me and I loved it! The director, Mr. Judd, was my all time favorite teacher- he made me aspire to be a high school choir director! Not quite as tearful as Mr.Hollands Opus, but he definitely influenced me!

The Christmas stuff floods my mind with memories. It is amazing how those moments of time come back to you once you open the box that has been packed away for the past year.

This angel ornament was given to me by my grandmother, "Pompoonzie"(another post about that at a later time!) about 30 years ago. She was so proud that it was made from a corn husk! I can still remember her giving it to me and the box that it came in. At times I miss her so much... she was a very special person.

Both of these wood carvings were made by my grandfather "Popeye". He was an excellent woodworker and made many beautiful pieces of furniture in his retirement years. I remember that he made many items to make money for his favorite charities.

I love having these little bits of them around me.

Their past lives are part of my good life.

My Homies

2009-11-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Traveling Wilbury's......Diane, Nancy, Leslie & Janet

State Golf Tournaments are really just an excuse to have a girl trip....and as I have stated in previous posts it doesn't matter how you play, as long as you look good. The main criteria is that the hotel should be within walking distance of a place to eat dinner for obvious reasons. Snacks in the room instead of dinner causes certain disaster the next day as Nancy can attest.

Our tournaments have taken us to parts of our beautiful state that I would never adventure to; Parker, Bisbee, Green Valley, etc. Our most recent tourney took us all the way to Glendale!(about 45 minutes from home!)But, being sure we couldn't possibly get up early enough to arrive for our 8 a.m. tee time with ALL the anticipated traffic, we bucked up and enjoyed the hospitality at the Holiday Inn.

Excitement on most evenings can consist of meeting new friends (a la "Shannon")in Bisbee or the usual routine of Nancy, Janet and Leslie reading on their Kindles while I settle for cruising the internet on my laptop.

Early breakfast is a must and we can always count on Cracker Barrel to 1)open at 6 a.m., 2) have pancakes for me and 3)play the super loud, twangy country music that Nancy loves.

We took a fabulous day trip to downtown Glendale for burgers, Cerritas Candy Factory and a stop by Cabellas (can you believe they had NEVER EVER been there?)

Here we are with super rock star Nancy admiring the Bass Tracker Boats. She definitely has "Attitude From a Distance."

The whole experience is one I look forward to several times a year. Nancy & I won 2nd gross in our flight this last time out! Tiger called me to offer his congratulations.

YaYa's instigate a good life.

The T Shirt Says

2009-11-24T17:29:00.002-07:00

I put off writing this post because I couldn't decide WHICH song I wanted to attach!! I love almost every one of their songs...STEELY DAN....ahhhhh...it just makes for a good day when you hear one of their tunes!

The photo doesn't do justice as it misses the 3 excellent girl singers that know how to "you got to shake it baby, you got to shake it baby" (Babylon Sisters)
Their concerts this year were unique in that they played a different album completely through in each of the cities! I went with a few friends and they played probably one of their best compilations, AJA. Great seats- 20th row center! Their sound guys are the best...you can hear every instrument...so clean...and Donald Fagan is a trip--he bites his words, throws his head back, and is just so "donald fagan".

Here you see my usual partner in crime, Nancy, along with hot Dr. Mike and his wild and crazy wife Tina!

I guess this is the 4th time I have seen them in concert.....evidence follows:

'02, '06, '08, & '09

What was your last concert? What was your first concert? :)

Steely Dan T Shirts ....good life.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2009-11-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

REAL football.

Joe, David, me (with my "are you sure you can take this photo?" expression), and Aaron

OU Sooner Football should probably be on your bucket list.

My middle child, Aaron, is a student in Norman and will graduate this spring, so we had to attend one more game before he's gone! These folks are into football. WAY INTO FOOTBALL. You stand for the entire game except for time outs and maybe halftime. No whining about it....even the 90 year olds at the game do it.

The mega huge big screen is about the size of the MetLife Blimp.

We got to see the Homecoming parade and the Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band was great. They have a tradition that I really like....during the pregame festivities, the band faces the visitors in the stands and plays the opposing teams school song to them! Then the OU football team comes out and kicks their butt. Very fun!

I just had to include the Sooner Schooner with the white ponies that run out onto the field after every touchdown while a bunch of crazy guys called RufNecks shoot off shotguns. Those horses had to be plenty tired and lookin' for water by the end of the night after about 42 points.

Boomer Sooner translated is good life.

What You Are Made Of

2009-11-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

A glorious consequence of beautiful fall weather in Oregon.

Slightly foggy Sunday morning overlooking the sleepy city of Eugene.

Meet Barbara and Ron Faunce.

Sometimes people come across your path in ways you least expect it! About two and a half years ago, Joe and I decided to start a home based business. (see post on Plan B) Enter the Faunces'! We met them at a conference in Portland where I knew I liked them right away because they were from the University of Kansas. You gotta love those Jayhawks. (preseason #1-Rock Chalk Baby) We have become such great friends....so great that they drove us all over the beautiful state of Oregon this summer for a little vacay...

golf several times

various waterfalls alongside the road

riding along the rugged Oregon coast

sunset horseback ride at the Longhollow Ranch with hot tub under the stars afterward

just had to show Joe on his pony....go, Cookie, go!

riding the ferry in the Willamette Valley after enjoying the taste of Oregon Pinot from a couple of wineries and pulling cherries from trees laden with fruit

We happened to be around for Ron's birthday a couple of weeks ago. Barbara had him share a memory for each decade of his life-- what a hoot! He told of a buddy that was similar to the wild and crazy scientist on Back to the Future who concocted all kinds of interesting things for them to try in the 70's! Later in life this guy received a nobel prize....who knew?

I absolutely love that in our Univera business we get to choose who we work with. We should do what we love and love what we do.

These dear friends have shown us such gracious hospitality, modeled leadership and cultivated our friendship.

True Colors aka Good Life

Better Now

2009-11-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is Rosemarie and Lynn. They became friends through an affliction called fibromyalgia.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Fibromyalgia is a common condition characterized by long-term, body-wide pain and tender points in joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Fibromyalgia has also been linked to fatigue, morning stiffness, sleep problems, headaches, numbness in hands and feet, depression, and anxiety.

Rosemarie had this debilitating disorder several years ago. She couldn't walk up stairs, was in excruciating discomfort and on many medications just to be able to make it through the day. She found great success in taking several of the Univera products. Her life is much different now. She can play golf, travel with her husband, and enjoy her family and friends. Because of her experience, she feels that it is her calling to share what she has learned with anyone who struggles with fibromyalgia.

When I first met Lynn, we had to get together at 1:00 in the afternoon because she had such a hard time getting up and around. She was unable to get out of her home except for about 4-5 days the entire month of May! She had absolutely no energy...she felt like it was a good day if she could get cleaned up and to the couch that day! She ached all over and just had NO LIFE! After I put her in contact with Rose Marie, Lynn began taking the recommended Univera products. In only 3 days she was out on a 45 minute walk, and later that month took her grandson to Six Flags! She is back to work now and off of the medication along with their side effects. She looks like a completely different girl today! As she says, "Now I have my life back!"

Lynn and Rosemarie got to meet in person a couple of weeks ago! I am grateful to see how their lives have changed for the better by these wonderful natural products and company. If you or anyone you know would like to know more, I can get you in touch with either of these great gals!

Good friends = good life!

Dr. J

2009-10-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

You gotta love going to the dentist.

It ranks right up there with going to the MVD or trying on swimsuits. However, I have a very hot dentist-- Dr. J. He is always hiking extreme mountains around the world and buying every high tech gizmo invented for his practice. Plus, he does the best crown in town.

I met Dr.J through my husband. When you go in for your 6 month check up you get graded. The hygiene tech, Elena, does the dirty work and then they decide what grade you get based on if you were brushing and flossing as you should and how long it took her to make your pearly whites clean and shiny. Joe would come home and say I got an "A" or "A-". I went to my first check up and got a "B". It was then that I realized Joe just went in and LIED to the dentist because Joe NEVER EVER flosses. He just told them he flosses every day to get an A. Well, don't you know I righted that ship the next time I went in for my appointment!

Flossing is really important though...don't neglect it! Prevents bad breath and bacteria!

Smile. It's a Good Life.

SUPERFOODS

2009-10-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Do you have a health plan?

Now, I'm not talkin' Cigna or Medicare....those are your Health Insurance Companies!! They don't pay unless you are SICK! (I would call that Sick Care!)

Joe and I have put together a 20 year health plan! How do you want to look in 20 years? How much do you plan to weigh? How about your energy and flexibility? Now, what steps will it take to make that a reality?

One thing we can suggest is putting SUPERFOODS into your diet! Our goal is to try and consume at least 3 superfoods every day! It's really pretty easy to do once you start paying attention to it.

Apples
Avacados
Beans
Blueberries
Dark Chocolate
Kiwis
Oats
Spinach
Walnuts
Yogurt

This document goes into detail about each one.

Kind of fun!

Mmm Mmm Good Life.

When the Time Comes

2009-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have been to three funerals this year.

I think I've only been to about 15-20 funerals in my whole life. I guess the reason these 3 funerals have been on my mind is because all of the people were about my age. Now to some of you...52 sounds ANCIENT, but in my world I feel I have another 50-60 years to go!

This sweet lady was Becky Mendoza, and she passed away not long after this photo was taken. She had the STUD,(and I do mean STUD) Diego, that sired the two litters our boxer, Lucy, whelped. Becky came to our home to help deliver the pups both times. She had a seizure right after all the pups were born in the first litter. Consequently, she found out she had a brain tumor. I was so happy she could enjoy helping with the second litter about 18 months later- boxers were her passion.
Beckys funeral was so sweet and inspiring. I learned so much about her and her faith in God that day.

The song for this post has been my favorite worship song for about the past 10 years. About a month ago I was driving to the most recent funeral. I turned on the radio and there was a quiet pause ... and then this tune came on. It was one of those "moments" that happen when you feel God all over you.

I am grateful for His love and our hope of eternal life after this one.

God makes life good.

Plan B

2009-10-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Recession. It has had an impact on everyone I know.

I have given significant thought to what has happened to us through this economic crisis. We sized down and made some tough choices as to "needs" and "wants" and significantly tightened our belt. The real estate market in Phoenix took the biggest nosedive I have seen in my 18 years in the business. People are losing their homes, their jobs, their investments, their retirement. We must remember that economic downturns are cyclical and it will happen again. Now, more than ever, it is important to position yourself to be able to weather the next storm. How can you take whatever the economy throws at you?

How can you worry a little less? Plan a little more!

Most affluent retirees get 17% of their retirement income from Social Security. We must find ways to create residual income. We must find adequate protection from market downturns.

Joe and I have found what we believe to be a very lucrative as well as rewarding home based business in Univera. It allows us to continue with our present jobs, but also work toward more financial security and time freedom in an extremely viable business model. The network marketing industry is growing by leaps and bounds as many major corporations are adopting this style of distribution as it is extremely profitable for them and allows people to create their own opportunities. The Robert Kiyosaki book "The Business School For People Who Like Helping People" explains the basic ins and outs of relationship marketing and the benefits of helping others grow and be successful.

What will the job market look like when all of this shakes out? The job lost might not be back again- then what? Right now the job seekers outnumber the job openings 6 to 1. The opportunity we have found with Univera gives us creative self employment. We must reshape our work life. It is a completely different way to think about the rest of your life.

We are looking for others who want to help change the health of those they know and love. That small beginning will mushroom and multiply into thousands of people through this business model. We can change the health and wellness of the world. Univera's mission statement is to bring the best of nature to humankind. It will be a significant outcome...and we can be a part of this renewal! How great to be a part of that change in others! We have found the secret to aging better!

We are looking for others who want to find another income source. Whether all you are looking for is to pay for these fantastic products or a six-figure income to replace the job you have now, the sky is the limit for everyone in this company, not just the few at the top. Univera's brilliant compensation plan is unmatched in the industry. It will be a significant financial renewal for many of us. How exciting to be able to help others financially! Is the time right for you? We have a place where you can create your opportunity! Let's go to the top together!

To Your Good Life.

Argyle and Country Clubs

2009-10-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

A fairy tale golf-princess kind of day is what I had this week. I was invited along with 11 others to experience Silverleaf Golf Club in Scottsdale. Playing golf is one of my favorite activities, so to get the opportunity to play at this exclusive club was a real treat. It is a stunning venue- the fairways wind through the secluded canyons and valleys of the McDowell mountains. However, I didn't realize exactly what kind of a treat I was in for.

First things first, what to wear. Now you know that with golf it doesn't matter how you play, it's how you look....so I chose my understated and clubish argyle vest and matchy match visor with lucky Jayhawk ball marker. Check.

After the valet took the car and clubs away, I was ushered into the beautiful 50,000 sq.ft.clubhouse. Incredible views, awesome architecture, extremely country-clubish for sure. Then we got to the gorgeous locker room where I had my private locker with my name on it for the day! After an outstanding breakfast buffet we went to the pro shop to meet our caddy! J.D. was an ASU student and caddy-extraordinairre for our foursome! He read my putts, cleaned my balls, raked my traps (too often), found my ball if it happened to be in the desert instead of the fairway (only twice),gave me my yardage and direction, just basically made me feel like a golf princess! The greens were lightening fast(at least 12.5 or 13), the course was in the best shape of the entire year, the weather was sunny & 85 degrees...absolutely divine! The 50 foot putt I made on 16 was the best! Lunch afterward in the library topped it off. Just a HUGE BIG SMILE kind of day.

Isn't that what we need every once in a while? Experiences that knock your socks off and kind of take you by surprise? Those days that let you forget the commotion and goings on?

Life's good.

Journey

2009-10-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

I'm not here to discuss the pleasures of that particular rock band, (although I think Steve Perry was an incredible voice and loved the use of this song by The Sopranos finale in 2007), but I am starting this blog in hopes of inspiring others to join me in a journey of health, wellness and renewal.

Over the past three years I have experienced a makeover in my physical health goals after coming in contact with a life changing company called UNIVERA. Simply put, Univera makes natural products for the purpose of changing the world's health....and it has definitely done that for little old Diane from Kansas. (and Toto, too) Check it out by clicking on the Univera logo on my sidebar.

I have learned that we can alter the way we experience the aging process. Because of this change in me, I am willing to learn this crazy computer gizmo called a blog in hopes of building a little community to be inspiring to and inspired by others.

P.S. Thanks to my daughter for her techno-saavyishness in helping me even though I must endure her ridicule because I can't remember how to do it a second time and she has to show me AGAIN!

I want to share things of The Good Life- --and this consists not only about health, but of spiritual, financial, business, family, and relationships as well. If we only have an allotted time to spend here on this earth, why not focus on these things and hopefully grow to the point where we have significance?

Gotta love A Good Life.