Behind the Bucket

Goodbye....

2010-10-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

well I haven't been around here in some time. Much of life has changed and I choosing not to continue this blog.

Check out www.cassandracooper.com if you would like to stay up to date. A work in progress coming in 2011!

She's HERE!

2009-01-09T01:49:00.000-08:00

My little sis Tanya had her baby tonight. I have only been back from the hospital about 20 minutes but everyone is asleep and it is quiet and I am still a bit awake from all the excitement!

Rachel Miranda

Born 1.8.09 at 11:10pm. Out in the hall we were betting on an 11:11 delivery time since she has 2 siblings with birthdays on 10.10 and 11.11.

She was 7 lbs 15 oz and 21" long. She is adorable!

A proud Mommy & Daddy! Well I am off to bed now!

A shout out....

2008-12-31T11:20:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR
to all of our friends and family!

I am so excited for the year 2009! Feeling newly rejuvenated in so many areas of my life!

I know many of my friends have adopted Ali Edwards concept of a word for the new year.

"A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow."

I think it is a great time to reflect and instead of crazy resolutions that no one every keeps it lets you reflect about everyday life & a whole new outlook for the new year.

So here is my word....

FOCUS-

FOCUS on just one thing until it is done. I need to FOCUS on what I am doing at the time and not be thinking about the 20 other things I need to do. By doing so will help me actually complete tasks on time!

FOCUS...on budget. We are feeling good financially for the year 2009. We are getting closer to being out of debt except for the house and will continue to focus one day at a time with what we buy, spend and use that costs money. My tip for the new year for my friends.... Get energy savings light bulbs we have dropped our electric bill 25% this last year and aren't changing light bulbs so often! Hoping the new front loading washer and dryer help soon too! I really want to be able to afford a new vehicle for Jason... the 1991 Astro Van just is not going to last too much longer for him! One of the many sacrafices he has made for our family this past 3 years!

FOCUS... one day at a time on living a healthier life. I have to lose this weight and it isn't going to happen quickly... one day at a time with focusing on exercise and what I eat. A total physical on the 13th and hopefully eliminating some health concerns that I have been on my mind for a few weeks since I made the appointment. I have already started on the exercise and my family won't be happy when I don't have sugary foods or baking supplies in the house!

FOCUS... on developing time for play and having fun with friends and family. I think work got in the way for so long that I quit doing anything and I am now redeveloping and focusing on friends and family.

FOCUSING on quality living and a new year of life!

Happy NEW YEAR!

a NEW look at our House!

2008-12-30T20:15:00.001-08:00

The Entryway Before & After

I love how this turned out. Notice the lamp on the table and it's transformation coming up...

This is the best picture with my night time lighting to see the darkest paint color. Most of the other pictures seem a bit washed out. So just imagine the pretty color on the walls!

Living Room Before & After

I am trying to decide if I am going to hang the long pictures on the sides next to the piano. I plan to leave the large one leaned on the piano and add some accessories around it.

My favorite little spot. I love the lamps now.... weren't always my fav before, but a little cream spray paint and a little bird perched on top... so cute.

Family Room Before & After

I have always wanted to do 2 trees and this year I did. This tree was dubbed the Charlie Brown Tree. I thought it was cute. It has all the ornaments that were colored and the kids ornaments. All the others went on the fancy tree in the living room. And I got and ANGEL & a STAR this year, and I am always torn which to put up since I like both.

The big CHANGE was in the kitchen. I have LOVED the red kitchen

but was ready for a fresh new look.

and here it is with black painted cabinets. Still need a few touches like curtains. I love how the dishwasher disappears and now I want a black stove and a little bit of molding along the top of the cabinets. I am also hoping to get a white sink instead of the stainless steel.

A new shimmery saying in my window frame. A new hook to hang it that I picked up at the Boston Trip a few months ago.

I have had this shelf for years and it was brown and worn and now with a fresh coat of black paint it looks great and gives me some more space for all my white dishes & glasses.

Well there it is a bit of touch up here and there but I am loving it!

Our 15 year old Kenzi!

2008-12-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

I really do love seeing all the crazy pictures that appear on my camera card when Kenzi borrows it. They have so much fun! Popular shoes... converse on her feet and her 2 bestest friends.... can you guess which ones are hers! For her birthday this year we ended up having 3 parties and I have to say it was the easiest year we have had celebrating her birthday. They were all casual and less people at one time in the house. 1st party was our Family Party including Grandma & Grandpa, Aunts & Uncles and her cousins. We had a yummy pasta bar with all sorts of pasta's, toppings and sauces. Here is her birthday dessert. We don't often have cake here, just a favorite dessert. I also had forgot to buy candles again so tealights it was. Only 5 instead of 15. I love her face of concentration trying to figure out the perfect wish....

The next party was a spa party with Shelby & Lycia. Fancy foods & treats! And pampering from my AWESOME friend Laura who came and gave all 3 girls full pedicures. What a treat for them!

Lycia patiently waiting her turn and Kenzi totally relaxed for her pampering!

All their feet without the converse shoes. Again can you guess who's feet they are?

(not sure why blogger keeps turning this photo sideways... oh well)

And a final shot of all 3 girls. Happy 15th Birthday Kenzi! Her final party was just a hangout of a few friends having fun with Rock Band and the epic movie Titanic... a few hadn't seen it so it was the choice for the night. Can't believe they got the boys to watch it. At least it wasn't a scarey movie as they all seem to love and her Mom is a whimp and would be a bad chaperone because I would be hiding up in my room so I wouldn't here the screams or see the horror!

So which of my friends likes scarey movies?

Updates on the newly painted downstairs and decorating coming soon....We are putting the fancy tree up today since we have been working on painting. Chat soon!

Have you missed me....

2008-12-06T19:28:00.000-08:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth....just haven't been posting. No excuses, have had stuff to post, have had more time in my life and .... well just haven't.

I do admit though I haven't quite felt myself lately...and haven't really been able to figure out what it is exactly that is leaving me feeling so unsettled alot of the time. I know this last few weeks has brought on so many changes. I am sure that many of those are contributing to my emotions. health concerns, my dad again, Mikey gone, and work still. But I am working on it even though I am still wondering if more changes are in store for our family. A huge thanks to my patient husband with lots of hugs and "I love yous", listening to me think out loud and sometimes just a shoulder to cry on.

I am missing Michael like crazy... I know that he is having a blast and I am so proud of him. He is doing amazing. Continuing to excel in his new life at college, working hard and playing hard. He has been home a couple of times. Once for our family photo shoot with Shannon and then for Thanksgiving. I am so looking forward to 3 weeks home with him for Christmas. Even if we will put him to work!

A HUGE thank you to Shannon (defining details photography) for capturing our family in photos again. I can't tell you enough what an incredble treasure they are and wish I had more from years past. Here is a sampling of our last photo session.

I love how she captures these 2 and their fun and quirky friendship as brother and sister.

Just over 6 years ago we moved into our house... our first house we have owned. It was perfect our dream home and I loved it. I delved into decorating and we did alot of projects. But 4 years ago we started the Bucket and that all took a back burner. There were a few unfinished projects and a few changes I wanted to make that never got done. But now that we have sold the store I have been finding a bit more time to focus again on my house and I want to brighten it up. I have selected a new color scheme and here are some of my inspiration photos, I was really hoping to have this done by Christmas Eve as my Christmas present... but we haven't started yet, so I don't know if that will happen. We will see, Jason and I can't seem to get 2 full days together without other commitments.

This is my inspiration for the color... robins egg blue, some tans& greens, lots of creams and whites and a bit of black and brown mixed in. I am super excited to complete this look!

I love this bell jar with the stand. Found it on a blog, now just to find one for me.

And yes I am going to be brave and paint my cabinets black... I have wanted to for at least 3 years! Iwas lucky enough to find this inspiration photo that is almost the exact cabinets and layout of my kitchen except I have an extra counter.

Well I guess that is enough for now. I will try to get back sooner next time. I have some more pictures to share... Kenzi turned 15, Kristi's amazing tree at the festival of trees and more.

Spread your Wings and FLY!

2008-09-26T00:25:00.000-07:00

I really thought I would post this sooner, started a couple of times but didn't quite get there.

Wondered what you were thinking as you sat there with all of your stuff that you were taking with you to college 17 1/2 years at home and you left with 4 boxes, a laptop & bag, 2 clear totes and your bike in the back of a pick up. A last big hug for your sister. We are starting to miss you and relealize little things that remind us your not here (besides you doing such a great job helping clean the kitchen!!!) We put groceries away tonight and Kenzi missed her brother, you always had fun and laughed putting things away tossing the pantry items to each other to put them away! Wanted to save a TIVO show the other night because you hadn't watched it with us... then realized you wouldn't be watching it here. Even canceled one of your shows because it deleted one of mine early.....
Walking away, but you did turn around for a last hug from us all before you got in the car.
Driving away and just like that a child moves on to a new journey and new experiences and we are left with an empty room that still sits just like you left it... Aunt Holli will be coming to visit in a few weeks and I am sure we will make it a guest room before then.... but for now it is still your room... just empty of you!
We Love you and MISS you! But are so very PROUD of you. I know you are having the time of your life!!!
Congrats OSU on the big win at Football tonight. Quite the sea of orange in the middle of the football field after the game!

Today is the day...

2008-09-20T09:16:00.001-07:00

In a few minutes I head out to work for the final day as a retail store owner. I have experienced mix of emotions about all this, but mostly I am so excited to move forward to grow Daisy Bucket Designs.

I look back to that first open house in my home November 2004. I released a few sets of custom products. Following shortly was the relase of popular kits where we added many custom creations, we learned alot those 2 years as kit owners, I remember helping Angela with her scrapbook studio and putting away all the products and realizing that 90% of what she owned was from our kits. It was an amazing journey through the history of our kits.

Since the beginning of this jouney we knew that manufacturing is always where we wanted to be someday. I knew that a time would come where Daisy Bucket creations would be in stores. Not sure if I realized really what that would take and how amazing it would be now that we are there and in so many stores.

In the mix of this growth, Melinda and I opened the store just over 3 years ago. The store and customers were an amazing source of inspiration as we grew our wholesale business. We know that it was an important step of our journey.

Today as we close that store and lock that door for the last time as a retail store owner I know that it will be the beginning of another incredible chapter of our lives and our business.

Thanks to family, friends and our {BUCKET} family for being a part of it.
See you at the store today!

Thanks MOM & DAD!

2008-09-15T16:39:00.001-07:00

It is the first time in years that I had a birthday party thrown by my parents. They made an scrumptious dinner. But most amazing was the cake that Mom had decorated. I don't know how she did it but she made a cake that looked like one of our all time best selling papers named Cass Street!

As a child I remember for weeks before our birthday's searching through all of my Mom's cake decorating books dreaming of the perfect birthday cake. It was always a big deal to have your cake that Mom made. And it was no exception to this grown up daughter to have a cake made by Mom!
A few years ago my sister Tanya started a tradition with her family that the birthday child could cut the cake any way they wanted (one that would be fun to add to your own family traditions)... . So we sometimes get some wacky shaped pieces. I took full advantage of this tradition and cut my cake into daisies, a house, golf clubs, a heart, a piano, fish and more for each person.

Me and my 2 kiddos on my birthday... notice the straight hair.. Not permanent, once washed it is curly again. But it was fun to have done when I had my hair colored that morning. Thanks to everyone for a great birthday and I had fun scrapping and hanging out with my friends on Saturday too.

Come Play if you can...

2008-09-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

A bit of an informal LAST crop and my birthday celebration at the official {BUCKET} store this Saturday. We are going to order pizza and play, even if you can't come, stop by and say Hi!... we will be there till midnight.

and if you haven't heard yet....the rumors are true...

It is bittersweet that we announce the closure of Daisy Bucket Designs retail store.

4 years ago I made a life changing decision to start my own company. With the help of an amazing family and my {Bucket} family & friends it has grown beyond what we could have imagined. Two years ago we launched our wholesale division and couldn’t have foreseen the amazing response by thousands of stores. It is exciting to know that our products can be found in over 30 countries in the hands of papercrafters worldwide.

The time has come now for us to turn our consistent focus and efforts on continued creative endeavors of developing, designing and manufacturing Daisy Bucket Designs products.

Details are coming this next week as to the exact date we will be closing, but it will most likely be the 22nd of this month. The new owner is estimating to be open on October 1st in a new location. We will be staying in our building and it will become a warehouse and design center. Although I know I will shed lots of tears....I really can't wait for the new direction we are taking

9.1.08

2008-09-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

Kenzi is the only 1 in our house that started school so far.... Here is a peek at our youngest freshman. Can you believe how grown up she is getting?

Lots of skinny jeans this year, some new jewelry and a hip new haircut. She even found a few school spirit purple pieces! She was so excited to start High School, kept telling us she wasn't nervous, and really had lots of confidence. She LOVES school and hope that she will for a few more years although I am sure it is social perks she looks forward to most. As long as she keeps up the school work first! She already has a bet with Dad that she will be getting a 4.0... he is crazy, because he will be losing this one (but that is ok)... she has yet to get a bad grade!!! Keep up the great work Kenz we LOVE YOU!!!!

Update on Mike coming.... it was a weekend of lots of chores and one was starting to clean out his room.... not quite ready for all that yet....Can't believe in less than 3 weeks he will be headed to college.

Where does the time go.....

2008-08-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

So much is going on that I am just not sure where my emotions are....

I am struggling with decisions of huge change and I know that what I am doing is best for our family and the future, but it is sooo hard to make it all come to reality. I think my biggest struggle is feeling like I am losing a part of my identity and want a piece of it to continue and that may not be the case. It is totally out of of my hands right now and things are in limbo still....

Crazy.... I really have great things to share, but felt I needed that. Thanks

Jason and I celebrated our 18th anniversay on the 18th of August this year... he met me in Vancouver WA and we stayed at the Heathman Lodge. Beautiful setting and was a pretty good stay. We went shopping, and Jason got a great looking blazer! I found a dress to wear to the phantom of the opera. We FAILED to get photos since it was pouring rain and we were running a bit late to the show. But it was an amazing show, we so enjoyed it and look forward to attending another broadway sometime in the future. LOVED IT!

The next day we to Astoria OR. An adorable little town that I want to spend way more time in, but again it was POURING RAIN... we visited the Maritime Museum indoors and then stopped at one of the scrapbook stores that carries Daisy Bucket nearby. We had a great visit and it is nice to meet up with our customers. Next was a trip over the Columbia River on the longest bridge 4+ miles over to Long Beach WA. The sun decided to peek out just a bit and we walked along the beach a bit and watched some of the kits from the kite festival that had been braving the weather. Some of them were as big as cars! Wish we could have seen it in full glory on a bright sunny day.

A FUN trip away, it was nice to take a break.

A big project finally launched....

2008-08-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

We launched a new blog at the {BUCKET} with great tutorials and designs from our amazing team. Some of you may recoginize the incredible local talent of Katie on there.

http://www.daisybucket.com/blog/

Just wanted to share... ENJOY!

My littlest Freshman, Creating Time

2008-08-11T21:29:00.001-07:00

Just registerd my baby as a Freshman in High School today. What crazy emotions for Mom & Daughter. I actually handled it fine.... but she got her schedule and was in tears since her bestest friend only has 1 class with with her. They ran out of lockers for the freshman and she is on a waiting list to get one. Friends and Lockers and what to wear have been the topic of many text messages and phone calls this week.

Had some time to create this weekend. This is a sample for a tradeshow we are going to this weekend. Fun little addition to my house someday too! Got to use our new rubon's, some stamps and of course the yummy paper.

Getting Ready to Go: I always hate the stress of getting ready to go to tradeshows, but I also somehow thrive on it. I really do have a huge list of things to do and manage for others to do to get ready by Friday! I also am adding 2 extra days off for our anniversary after the tradeshow, so that means a few extra things to do to take time off. But it will be so worth it.

What fun to see Daisy Bucket featured all over the world... here is a online store in Australia that has featured us as the manufacturer of the month. Scraptherapy. I will be heading over to answer some questions in their forum later this month and choosing a layout to feature on our blog from their gallery. Looking forward to focusing on the wholesale growth of our business more!

Chat soon!

Looking forward to.....

2008-07-31T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our 18th anniversary is coming up on August 18th and we get to spend 2 days in Portland and attend "The Phantom of the Opera"... Can't wait!

Now I just have to find something to wear... anyone have suggestions?

I get to going shopping in Portland for school clothes with Kenzi this next week and hoping to find something there. Kenzi has been part of the crew at the bucket packing the thousands of rubon's we received this week to earn extra school clothes money. She has a whole list of stores to visit!

No Batteries...

2008-07-20T21:42:00.000-07:00

Today my family came over for dinner. My Dad and Mom just returned Mayo clinic and my Dadi is doing well. They put a new hip in him and in a couple of months he may be walking again as long as he follows doctors orders. Glad to have them home and loved visiting. It is almost like they were never gone, but we really did miss them and glad they are home safe.

I was glad the propane ran out in the BBQ right as dinner was done. I really need to get an extra tank.

I wanted to take pictures of Marissa my 2 year old neice playing with the big kids, but had no batteries in my camera, and my battery jar is empty. She is incredibly competitive. They were playing some made up game with this huge 3ft blow up ball. They had to prevent the other team from getting the ball into their basket when it was their turn. These kids were basically playing full on tackle football and little Marissa was holding her own with the big kids. You would have thought she would have been a bit scared, but this girl has no fear. They will be back on Wednesday night and I will have batteries ready. What a great night!

I love the "Walk down Memory Lane" idea. Thanks for all the comments. What great memories. How time gets away and I am realizing how long it has been since I have seen some of you.

Chat soon!

A Walk Down Memory Lane

2008-07-19T23:29:00.000-07:00

The Directions:

1. Leave a comment on my blog. In the comment, recall one memory that you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you know me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It has been fun seeing all the memories and leaving some of my own on my friends blogs!

Tagged by Shannon

2008-06-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

Dream Vacation.... Italy for our 20th anniversary. Only 2 more years!

Late at night self portrait in my jammies... What are the kids doing right now.... Kenzi proof reading Mike's book he is writing, Mike playing Guitar Hero

My ClosetFavorite Room in my house. My Studio/Office hasn't had much use lately and is not looking so hot! Hate to admit we are waiting to clean it up when Jason takes over Mikes room as his office and the guest room. in September... Mixed feelings about that.
Had 2 new pairs of favorites... notice the daisies on the top, cool find my sis!

I had a pic of the bathroom that didn't make it to the computer, but found this fun shot of Kenzi in the bathroom. Love it when I find these random shots on the camera card! My laundry room... my least favorite room because I hate doing laundry! My NEW fridge, not full of random pieces of daily life yet.
And my dirty sink!
It's funny right before I saw I was tagged I made a deal with the kids to help me clean in the morning instead of tonight since they were playing games and I didn't feel like it either....

Thanks Shannon... and see my house is total disarray right now too!

TAG: Sue Ellen, Stacy C., Kristie, Mary and Melisa! Have FUN!

A Warm treat from the Oven!

2008-06-22T07:14:00.001-07:00

I love to cook. I think since opening the {Bucket} I wanted another way to be creative that didn't involve paper! I love that too, but sometimes I do just need a break. So I have added a few cooking shows to my TIVO schedule and occasionally make time to bake or add some speciality cooking to my schedule. Mostly on Sundays since Jason works swing shift we rarely get dinners together, but on Sunday's we have dinner at 2:00 and I enjoy some creative cooking time.

A new favorite has been fresh from the oven homemade bread.... and not with a breadmaker. Although I do use my kitchen aid for the kneading.

I always do a double batch since it doesn't last long and then I share with a friend. And since Katie was able to try it a couple of weeks ago, she has had a craving so here is the recipe!

1 Cup Warm Milk
3 tsp yeast dissolved in a 1/3 Cup warm water with 1 tsp sugar.
I use a shallow bowl so I have a lot of surface area for this step. The yeast activates faster. Sprinkle the sugar and yeast in it and then let it dissolve.
1/2 Cup sugar
1/2 Cup meltered margarine or butter ( I have tried both and actually like the margarine better)
3/4 tsp of salt
3 eggs beaten
4 Cups Flour

Combine all ingredients adding flour last (I use my kitchenaid) Mix well. Add flour to make a soft dough. The dough is a fairly wet dough. I sometimes add another 1/2 flour if it seems to wet. I knead it for about 3-5 minutes in the kitchenaid and then transfer to a bowl sprayed with cooking spray. Let raise until double in size (about 4 - 6 hours)
Remove dough from bowl on to floured surface.
For Rolls - Split dough into 2 sections. Roll out each into a circular shape. Spread with soft butter or margarine. Cut into 12 wedges (notice picture above) roll into crescent roll shapes.
For Loaves - Shape into 2 loaves and place in loaf pans
For Cinnamon Rolls - Use half or all the dough depending on the size and quantity that you want. Shape into a rectangle, spread with soft butter or margarine, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. If you like nuts you can add them. I have also done orange rolls by adding sugar instead of brown sugar and orange zest and a little juice from the orange. Roll up dough and seal together. Cut into pinwheels.
Let raise again usually 2-4 hours. Bake at 375 for 10-15 minutes for rolls and 15-20 minutes for loaves or cinnamon rolls.
This recipe will make 24 rolls or 2 loaves of bread. I usually do a batch of cinnamon rolls, 12 rolls and 2 loaves when I make a double batch.

I play with the pinwheel rolls alot and make different flavors. Orange is a favorite. I also do vanilla with the brown sugar and then make a warm vanilla sauce found in my Betty Crocker book.

May make a batch today... we will see.

2nd post for the graduation milestone!

2008-06-03T11:03:00.001-07:00

Michael joined the Hermiston High School graduates this year, graduating with honors. This is an award (the medal) given to students who take at least 12 honors classes in an assortment of subjects and maintain a high grade point average (the yellow tassel). Only 24 students in his class acheived both of these.
Here he is with his friend Daniel! 2 of a kind and will be rooming together as they head to OSU this fall.
A proud Father and Son! and a goofy sister behind!!! He looked sharp in his cap and gown and we had a fun celebrating afterwards with family and friends.

I can't believe this day has come and passed already. It seems so far away when they are young and then senior year hits and it flys by. We are super excited for him, but also sad. Only 4 months till he leaves home to attend college. He will be attending Oregon State University in the Engineering Program, not looking forward to the day when he will move out.
All of my friends with little ones give them an extra hug...be a bit more patient today... read one more book with them.... play cars or dolls with them... take a photo or several and let them be little, because before you know it they are grown up!

Another Month Passes By!

2008-06-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe another month has passed by and I haven't blogged very much...
We have been busy this month as I am sure all of us with the end of the school year coming to a close.
Final choir concert of the year and for the middle school. The kids did broadway numbers from Grease, Hair Spray and Phantom of the Opera. Loved it! All of the 8th graders received recognition and a daisy flower. {Great flower choice}
We attended Award Cermonies where both Michael and Kenzi were honored. Michael received Outstanding Upperclassman of the year in Science. He also was one of 24 out of 270 students to graduate with honors and on the honor roll. He received the presidential gold award.
Kenzi did outstanding in school this year and had quite a stack of awards in Science (having acheived the highest score in the school), Math & Literature. She also was honored for her honor roll, the Presidential Gold award. We keep teasing her that she "swept" the awards cermony!
We are very proud of her and Michael and that they continue to want to learn and acheive!

We had Jason's Mom and her husband Danny visit us this last week and we took them over to the Pendleton Underground tours. Pendleton has quite the history and whole society that lived underground in the late 1800's and early 1900's. In a 4 block radius there were 30 some taverns and many brothels. There was also a work force of chinese that helped build and mine in the Pendleton area.

Here is a picture of Jason with a ball and chain. Notice I am nowhere in sight!!!!

It was a great experience and we enjoyed the time away, although we did feel a bit saddened by some of the history and treatment of so many. Loved our visit with family.

Hello!

2008-05-06T23:10:00.000-07:00

Catching up... been a bit too long since I updated the blog.

Went to Sacramento CA and had a good time teaching store owners from Oregon, Washington and California. It was great to get away, but I really am tired of all the delays that I seem to encounter while traveling....always seem to wonder why it ALWAYS happens to me.

Michael has been doing great driving and we are finding ways to put this to use. Kenzi and him were given some cash, the recycle bags and a partial list of the things we need for groceries and then went grocery shopping for me! loved this, I was not tempted by all the foods and staying on track for my weight loss and I enjoyed a nap while they were gone.

These were just a little part of the magic at our Creative Event at the Bucket and my favorite. I have always wanted to put a logo on a bucket since I started over 3 years ago. Thanks to Words by Marygold we were able to have these adorable buckets. We also played with alot of fun techniques using vinyl masks and items this last weekend. Thanks to all that came and made it such a great 2 days!

As many of our friends and family know we have dealt with of shocking news this last week with our business. They always say imitation is flattery, but in this case it was not. We have always had a unique style and feel to our paper that was unlike any other. While we have been a bit surprised that nobody has used it before now we knew the day may come when someone would develop their own paper collection on our paper stock. However we were surprised at the source it came from and we no longer will be using one of our printing companies. This is a big transition as we convert to a new printer, but are sure that it is a blessing in disguise!

Off to work for the day! Chat sooner next time!

A road of his own...

2008-04-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

Well not quite... but he does have the ability now to choose which road to head down in the car along with all the other drivers. Today Mike took the drivers test and passed. It was just a bit unsettling seeing him drive off in my car with someone grading and testing him and I paced the DMV for 20 minutes. He ultimately walked out of the DMV with a huge amount of FREEDOM to get behind the wheel of a vehicle and drive where he chooses. Along with that came a Mom's heart that soared and sank for him.

On one hand it is exhilerating for him to enjoy the freedom that comes with being able to choose his destination and route, but on the other hand he is joining the driving world and all the risks it brings. Signing him up for insurance and that sticker shock price because he is a teenage male enforced the statistics of his age group of drivers. We punched in the numbers if we were getting insurance for a girl and the price was so MUCH lower, I really thought it was a MYTH... guess not.

He still doesn't have a car of his own, so I still have some control of when he drives... but beyond that I know that I can't be there to say choose this road or to watch out for little things like the car backing out of the driveway or the stray shopping cart. This last year our family has had to deal with 2 accidents making it more of a reality that it can happen to us. So a huge amount of Mother's prayers for his safety and those around him.

Our family is also dealing with my Dad's health and it took a turn for the worse yesterday as he suffered a heart attack that put him in ICU. Tonight things were looking a bit better, but he is still recovering from a major hip surgury as well. He is in good hands at the Mayo clinic and glad that they are getting some of the best care around. My Mom has found a good place to stay when not at the hospital with the inspiration and comforts that she needs as she deals with all of this. Although I am sure they wish they were home.

Hi!

2008-04-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

Just a post to check in. I am without my computer for about 2 weeks, luckily the power issue that I have been having the last few weeks has a warranty recall! I get to use Jason's, but it isn't the same as having my own.

Still staying on track with my weight loss. Excited about that. Down 1 size in jeans.
Traveling to Sacramento at the end of the month to teach another group of store owners from Oregon and California. It is nice since because it is all prepped and packed already. Not scrambling at the last minute! Been prepping for an amazing event at the store on May 2nd or 3rd. Doing lots of classes in 1 day. Can't wait. The most excited I have been for an event at the store.

Loving that spring is finally deciding to be here. It has been crazy weather here this year. Jason got the sprinklers going, the lawn mowed and some of the weeding done this morning. It is looking much better in our yard. Kenzi and I worked in the house. Got some cleaning done that we needed. The laundry is going to be my life for the rest of today since I have been doing hardly any the last few weeks and still had stuff in suitcases.

Well I am off to play a game of yahtzee with the family!
Happy Sunday Everyone!

College Visit and State Competitions

2008-04-05T23:15:00.000-07:00

Weekend away to visit OSU in Corvallis OR. The campus is incredible this time of the year when it is all in bloom. It was raining pretty much the whole time so I didn't take many photo's.

On Friday we spent the day visiting and touring the campus at OSU as one of Michael's final choices for school in September. It is so hard to believe he will be leaving for college this year. It was a great visit and he is taking final steps to attend OSU just 4.5 hours from home. {nice for Mom & Dad} We were thrilled to have all the scholorships he needed to make it affordable become available. 100% tution paid, some room and board so far, and we are still waiting on more results that won't be available for a couple more weeks. He will be enrolling in the engineering programming.

On Saturday we spent the day with Kenzi for state competition of Destination Imagination an event where teams of five to seven members work together to apply creativity, critical thinking and their particular talents to solve a Team Challenge. There skit was so funny! We enjoyed the day and the time with her. The journey ended at state for them, but it was a great experience.

We drove home through Vancouver and then the back roads home to Hermiston on the Washington side of Columbia River. It was a gorgeous drive even in the rain.

Back from Boston

2008-04-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

I was excited to go visit Boston. I haven't ever really been to the East Coast much and I am so amazed at the history, buildings, accents and so much more. Amazing place to visit!!

Loved the mix of the old and new, so much brick and lots of black trim. We drove through some of the neighborhoods and even though it is crowded. I think I could love the hustle and bustle of city life for at least part of the year. Jason and I keep joking that some day we will have to get a city house for me and then one in the mountians for him. He likes the seclusion and I love being right in the middle of it all.
Couldn't help but notice the "daisy" window in this old building.

I can't remember the real name of this restuarant, but thought they had a great start to their name!

Here you go Deb! I harley store on the same block as Vera Wang bridal shop, Kate Spade and Pottery Barn. It was crazy that they had it all. So many great window displays and inspiration.
I was in Boston to teack 2 scrapbook projects to store owners from all over the east coast. Of course I dealt with flight delays {NEVER a trip without them lately}and exciting adventures with Jason's sister Holli who joined me on this trip. Leave for California in a month.

I checked in at weight watchers and was a bit nervous to weigh after a trip like this. I didn't really track my points but tried to make wise choices. However there were so many tempting sweets such as Boston Cream Pie that I had to try while in Boston. I also tried Sword fish for the first time. Loved it. However I did alright and lost 2 more pounds.

family, 25 boxes and computer guru's

2008-03-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

Enjoyed some time with my brother Greg and his family. Here are a couple of shots of Gevin and Katlynn. They are growing up so much. I miss seeing them every few days. My Mom and Dad left this week for the Mayo Clinic in Michigan for Dr's to look at my Dad's hip removal procedure last year. They are seeing if they possibly can put a new artificial hip in again. He is doing well and has done a lot of healing this last year.

This last week was a busy week at the store which made for a busy week for me and the team at the bucket. We received at least 25 boxes of freight causing such a ripple effect as everything has to be moved around to make room and merchandise it. We are still expecting a few big orders this next week.

Managed to get my grocery shopping done since I had to stock up my pantry with good foods again. Not only am I feeling the affects of my diet but so is the family. I used to purchase items for both me and then the family when I dieted too since the prices for "good for you" foods are more. But this time around I have decided that we all need to watch our weight and portions and so I am just buying healthier foods for all of us. We have all lost a bit of weight now.

Mike has been busy working on a huge project for computer programming independant advanced study class. He is builidng a touch screen for a computer. So we have all this wiring and stuff taking up space in the dining room. Jason has been involved to teach him how to solder, and help figure out some of the wiring.

Busy Week & Friday Night Laughs

2008-03-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

A busy week for us this week. I think I was home late everynight. But enjoyed some good times too. Had dinner our with Laura and some friends Thursday after WW and -2.4 lb. Was excited to see that. I was just a bit worried after the Portland trip, but had tried to make wise decisions and limits. Like just a mini cupcake at Cupcake Jones. It had been a long crazy day that day and was glad to at least end it with good times.
Friday a quick trip to Walla Walla to meet with our printers and to talk about new product options. Have some great ideas, now just to see if it is affordable. We are finding everything is possible just sometimes at a cost greater than we can market it for. This is a cost of keeping our product production in the US. But it is a part of our business we are commited to, so we continue to find options in the US. Another thing we have been researching is the {Green Factor} of our paper. It is 30% post recycled product and uses vegatable and soy-based inks. Not 100%, but we are glad to know that some of our product is recycled.
Friday night was a play with Kenzi! It was so funny. We laughed almost non-stop during the comedy version of Romeo and Juliet. Kenzi was Priscilla and the Nurse to Juliet. It was a play about some middle school students version of putting on a production of Romeo and Juliet.

Here she is in costume at the end of the play, they had all the kids sit on the stage and visit with people about the play at the end.
Another photo and a close up of her stage make up. She is wearing make up all the time now, but not quite this much. Although I wish I had half the length of eyelashes she does. Mascara only enhances this, she has beautiful blue eyes like her daddy!
Signing autographes... feeling like a real movie star!
This is Kenzi with Jared. They have been friends since 2nd grade when he moved here. Kenzi was the first person to show him around and they have stayed friends since. At one time she was taller than him.... he has grown alot these last couple of years. He had one of the main parts in the play and was great. His little brother (4yrs old) sat behind me and kept us laughing. During the fight scene where Romeo and some others get in a fight and "kill" one of the characters his brother asked his Mom... "When is Jared going to die?" He wanted to see Jared fight too. (He wasn't in that scene.)

Well off to work now. Lots to do, but also looking forward to good times. At least work is enjoyable 90% of the time and I love visiting and seeing my friends and customers!

A Weekend in Portland

2008-03-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

On Saturday afternoon Kenzi, Shelby and I headed over to Portland. I have lived in Oregon 3 hours away from Portland for 11 years. I have never really been over to just explore and shop. We checked into the hotel and then headed over to IKEA. Still trying to figure out how I came home without this little gem... but I really wasn't sure where I would put it.

The girls found these crazy little things with lots of color to inspire them.

Then the next morning we headed to the Pearl District and found this adorable store.

The decor, window displays, the colors, the textures and more. Loved it, wish I could have brought it all home.

We also ended up in Lloyd Center where the girls found some cute shirts, shoes and had fun trying on clothes.

It was great to get away, the best part was being able to not get lost with the navigation on my phone, we were able to drive right where we needed to go. I get so anxious driving in the cities since we are from such a small town. It is just unfamiliar and I get nervous and unsure of where I need to be and there is so much to pay attention to. But this made it so less stressful!

OK I know this a long post, but we also started a new blog for just those that want to know the happenings "AT THE BUCKET" check it out.

Enjoy!

End of the Day Photos

2008-02-28T23:45:00.000-08:00

It was late and she was headed up to bed, but we took a few minutes to snap some photos anyway.

Looking forward to cropping at the Bucket tomorrow night, have some projects that I need to work on for a class I am teaching in Framingham MA in late March. Haven't been back East, hoping I have some time to view a few sites. It is right outside Boston.

Weighed in tonight at WW and lost 1.8 lbs this week. Hasn't been too hard this week.

Kenzi & Shelby

2008-02-24T22:27:00.000-08:00

These 2 have become best friends this year. Sometimes it is harder on me when she makes new friends and the old start coming around less and less. But I am glad to see her have so much fun with Shelby! Picture is a bit blurry, they took them on there own. There is a whole crazy set of these.

They have spent so much time together this weekend. They competed in Destination Imagination in Baker this weekend and will be going to state at OSU on April 5th. It is a great program that combines, music, drama and science. Shelby than spent the night and they hung out all day chatting with friends and dealing with teen age crushes!

I feel I have done well with my WW this week. I actually started following the plan last Monday and weighed in on Thursday. I have found some great foods for low points. I am realizing I can have whatever I want, just in moderation. Loving the online tools and being able to update my points anywhere. Favorite snack of the week... a fresh juicy orange and a dark chocolate Hershey's stick. Only 2 points. Almost as good as a chocolate orange!

I loved Jason's support this morning. We normally have a good breakfast on Sunday's since we are all home. I gave him the choice of 2 different things and he asked what had less points and would be better for me. So crepes it was with fruit and a little whip cream, not too many points, but oh so sweet! Tonight we cleaned out the fridge and pantry and wrote points on the packages of everything. Starting a list of things I want to stock up on and always have on hand for low point meals and snacks.

A journey that I need to finish!

2008-02-21T21:35:00.000-08:00

I took first steps tonight and weighed in at Weight Watchers tonight. I have alot of weight to lose. It has been a constant battle for me and I am starting to see some health issues. So the journey begins. I have some great support from home and a friend. I can do this! So watch the sidebar to see the progress each week as I check in at the scale each Thursday.

Here is a picture of all of us girls at the show, and an almost full length "before"picture of me.

Enjoyed Date night last night with my sweetie, we went to see "Jumpers" at the theater. It was nice to get away and spend an hour and half sitting next to each other holding hands. We then came home and tucked the big kids in to bed.

Having some issues with my computer, not thrilled about this, I had my old Dell for 5 years, and although I had worn it to death it never had any major issues until the screen broke. This computer is a year old and having major power issues. So I am not always bringing it home where I take the time to surf around the net and update my blog. Hoping we can find the solution.. hopefully soon.

Finally Home!

2008-02-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I have been gone for 10 days. We drove from Hermiston OR to Hayward California in 1 day and then down to Anaheim. Attended the CHA show. Randy chauferred us in his truck with the precious cargo of our booth, props, product, catalogs etc. in the Uhaul trailer to show at CHA 08. We then drove back after an extra day in Disney Land and then another overnight stop in Hayward with a night in San Fransisco.

Thanks to Randy and Debbie for driving there and back with your truck!

This year we took Debbie & Randy (my sis and her husband). Tanya (sis & friend) and Kenzi.

Kay (my friend & employee)

Melinda's husband Leif and her 3 girls.

We also took time in Disneyland after the show each night and then the day after the show. Although it was fun it was also tiring. I slept so much in the car on the way home.

Kenzi had a blast. She loved all the details and I handed the camera over to her most of the trip. Right now I am using pictures that my sister took since Jason took my camera card in his laptop to work. oooops! But I wanted to make a post anyways. Spent most of the morning unwinding. Getting kisses from my sweetie, who missed me so much!!!! Laundry and just getting my house back in order for the upcoming week. Enjoy!

Update from the road!

2008-02-07T21:13:00.000-08:00

Loving my new smart phone. Right now we are in the truck pulling a trailer full of the booth for the CHA show. Almost to our stopping point for the night. Worst weather was in the gorge with lots of rain.No snow!!!! So grateful for everyone that helped us get ready. So excited for Sunday the first day of the show. Still lots of work to get there. Will update with photos soon. Chat Soon

Happy Birthday Michael!

2008-02-03T09:53:00.000-08:00

I can't hardly believe you are 17 today!

This is a bittersweet birthday for your Mom!

My heart is so full.

We are so proud of who you have become.

You have a tender heart, a willingness to help.

Amazing intellect and such a good spirit about you.

With graduation just months away and college after that

the possibility of you being here next year for a birthday are slim.

So many "last times" are happening this year. Each of these "last"

moments make me reflect even more how fast the time is going by.

But we also look forward to all the "firsts" you will start

experiencing over this next year of your life.

Just don't think there are days that I wish you were a little

4 year old lining your cars up in rows and that you would be in our

home for many more years to come.

We love you Mikey and wish a happy birthday for you!

Mom has done her crying for the day and all should be good now!

It's Down!

2008-02-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

I loved having our Christmas Tree up and all the beauty that goes with it. However I have waited toooooo long to take it down. I did have it down before February ... barely! In fact it has sat undecorated for the last 2 weeks. I really should think of a real tree next year so I am more motivated to take it down.

I have a picture of the living room now, but can't seem to get the technology to work for me. Oh Well. I knew that would happen one of these days.

Have a great day!

Thanks Laura!

2008-01-31T01:31:00.000-08:00

How many friends can you call at 9:30 pm and say let's play?

I wanted to create tonight because I need to and I really want some of my work in our booth at the show in exactly 1 WEEK!!! Yikes. Knowing me I knew I could end up distracted by TV, kids, family and all the house stuff, so I called Laura up and said let's play. So we have spent the last 3 hours visiting and papercrafting. I did another layout using the Summer Cottage Collection and Laura did the card. She sat and patiently cut flowers and ended up with an adorable card.

Kenzi is starting to feel better, but it looks like she has passed it on to her Dad. I am so hoping to be spared this go around with so much going on. Looks like it has started in Melinda's family too, Kelsey came home sick today. Praying for both of us to stay well at least until after the show!

Summer Cottage Collection

2008-01-29T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here is a peek at the new Summer Cottage Collection, Velvet Elements and ribbons with a layout of our Kenzi. Thanks for the incredible photo Shannon!

She is home for a sick day today. Poor girl at least she will be better to visit Mickey Mouse in Disneyland next week. Now lets just hope I don't get it!

Ice, Snow and an Overnight guest!

2008-01-27T21:07:00.000-08:00

Hermiston was hit with a crazy ice storm last night. At around 5pm the {BUCKET} became a hangout spot for about 10 of us wondering what the weather and roads were doing and what was going to be safe.

We ended up eating at a La Palma 2 blocks away enjoying the evening. The roads to Tri-Cities were closed and Kay ended up spending the night with us. And then again tonight! Today we say 6" of snow added to the storm. Makes for some pretty pictures.

We know her family is missing her, but she is safe and we are having a blast during our snow day scrapping, visiting and eating good food! And best of all our minds are at ease that she is safe and won't be in an accident going home in the crazy weather.

{BUCKET} update, all the new papers arrived, the new velvet elements, stamps and many of the ribbons and we are just waiting on the tags. So relieved to be at this stage of the process. Now to the fun of creating. We are praying for good weather as we prepare to drive to California on February 7th. I will try to get a sneak peek of the other new products soon!

Enjoy!

Birthday Wishes!

2008-01-25T08:04:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JASON!

Much Love and Birthday wishes to you!

So lucky to have you in my life!

Cute Smiles!

2008-01-25T00:08:00.000-08:00

This little girl stopped by the {BUCKET} to see her Aunt Cassandra today. She is so busy, but just makes you smile. Marissa is almost 2. She visited with her sister Emily and her Daddy today.

Also a huge congrats to my friend Shannon on her new photography viewing room for Defining Details. She is on an amazing journey and I am so thrilled for her. Visit her at www.definingdetails.com to have her "capture the details of your life" in photo's.

Tomorrow I will post sneak peeks of new products for the {BUCKET}

Isn't she Lovely!

2008-01-23T22:19:00.000-08:00

Kenzi has been learning to play the piano this year. Last summer her friend taught her to play a song from Little Mermaid, Under the Sea. She picked it up really fast and has started self teaching herself to play. I have been amazed and thrilled to hear the piano being played. Her favorite songs are from Phantom of the Opera and Joy that she has learned using her keyboard she got for Christmas.
A total teenager she has mastered the use of her straight iron, curling iron and make-up. Now if she just would believe she is as pretty as she really is!!!!

On a {BUCKET} note, I can hardly sleep tonight! Tomorrow is delivery of 1 of the 3 new paper collections for the CHA show. Ribbons and Stamps will be here Friday. So excited to get everything in hand before the show. This is a first for us. Usually we are headed to the show with just samples of everything. This year we will have product on hand to start shipping right away upon our return to stores everywhere! I feel like it is Christmas Eve!

Enjoy!

Productive Tuesday's

2008-01-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

I love Tuesday's... Melinda meets with us at our house for a meeting for the {BUCKET} I feel like we get so much accomplished on the comfy couches and I can tell the weeks that we miss our meetings.

We have been so busy prepping for the CHA show in just a couple of weeks. (CHA is the Craft and Hobby Association trade show.. This show is primarily for store owners to come and see the NEW product collections and write orders…) It is an amazing event. This year we are driving to Anaheim CA. We are taking the girls with us to visit Disney Land while we are at the show.

I have to give a huge THANKS to Mike for all the extra work he does to help us get ready for the show.

He works so hard on the website and the catalog. He has taken 2 days during his time off school and worked full time. But the final files are to the printers.

This is part of Creating Keepsakes Product Guide Issue for 2008. Daisy Bucket was listed under patterned paper this year. This is our first listing of any kind in this magazine. Was just a bit excited about it!

Thanks for the welcome to blogging. I really think I will enjoy this!

Introducing....

2008-01-22T02:43:00.000-08:00

Well here it is.... the first post.

Here are the Cooper's ~ Jason, Cassandra, Mike and Kenzi.

I am excited to have a place to share about our lives, my thoughts, and even about daily life as the owner of Daisy Bucket. These are all parts of how who I am. I love what I do!