tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84826773267146510882024-02-07T00:38:12.825-06:00Stones of RemembranceTina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.comBlogger1639125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-37662075347026436222012-01-30T01:00:00.000-06:002012-01-30T01:00:06.926-06:00I've MOVED!!!!!!<div align="justify">Be sure to update your links & feeds if you normally follow me here! My new blog address is: <a href="http://tinavegaphotography.com/blog"><span style="color:#cc6600;">tinavegaphotography.com/blog</span></a>.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-24404667022792320522012-01-29T16:00:00.001-06:002012-01-29T16:36:39.915-06:005 Fun Things Friday<p align="center"><a title="5 Fun Things Friday - small by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6736128341/"><img alt="5 Fun Things Friday - small" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6736128341_88abe2c8d5_o.png" width="217" height="360" /></a></p><div align="justify">The last 5 Fun Things Friday at this address! I'm moving over <a href="http://tinavegaphotography.com/blog/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> tomorrow.</div><br /><div align="justify">1. <a href="http://www.mojomonkey.biz/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Mojo Monkey Donuts</span></a>. You might remember me talking about their Maple Bacon Bar long, long ago. If not, here's a refresher:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="maple bacon bar by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6784790443/"><img alt="maple bacon bar" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6784790443_fdf3176e58.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">The family and I conducted lots of research for this post.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="yummy by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6784838091/"><img alt="yummy" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6784838091_757c329615.jpg" width="500" height="362" /></a></p><div align="justify">Grueling work. Here's what I was required to sample:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="banana fritter by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6784792301/"><img alt="banana fritter" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6784792301_632dc9fcae_z.jpg" width="426" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">A banana fritter.</div><br /><div align="justify">2. Hershey's Raspberry Hugs. I may or may not be on my third bag this month.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="hugs by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6784884539/"><img alt="hugs" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6784884539_538f2bed1b.jpg" width="350" height="262" /></a></p><div align="justify">3. This TO-DIE-FOR chicken recipe (click <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/lady-and-sons-chicken-in-wine-sauce-recipe/index.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to view). Happened upon it via our E-Mealz plan for the week.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="swiss chicken by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6784896163/"><img alt="swiss chicken" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6784896163_8285b8fac9_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">4. Check out these AMAZING vintage camera nightlights!</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Vintage Camera Nightlight - Ansco Cadet II w/flash by jayfish, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayfish/6337832797/"><img alt="Vintage Camera Nightlight - Ansco Cadet II w/flash" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6043/6337832797_4befba0959_z.jpg" width="426" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">You'll find more about Jason's nightlights <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jayfish/sets/72157627988114745/with/6338616718/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jayfish"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>. He even shares his process <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Vintage-Camera-Nightlight/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>!</div><br /><div align="justify">5. Check out these precious lemon cookies (you will find them for sale <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67873332/5-dozen-lemon-cookie-nibbles"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>).</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="www.craftedcookies.com by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6785056789/"><img alt="www.craftedcookies.com" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6785056789_4de07ac6f9.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">LOVE the color!<br /><br />Happy Belated Friday!!!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-48571116981452781542012-01-24T13:30:00.002-06:002012-01-24T13:33:06.669-06:00we have our very own Alex P. Keaton<p align="center"><a title="alex p. keaton by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6756318017/"><img alt="alex p. keaton" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6756318017_a14eeb3ae4.jpg" width="500" height="250" /></a></p><div align="justify">And yes, my Christmas tree is STILL up.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-721995173184280762012-01-21T12:20:00.003-06:002012-01-21T12:24:30.985-06:00this is amazing<p align="center"><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/LpChZxPfa-c?rel=0" frameborder="0" width="420"></iframe></p><div align="justify">The view of "us" from outer space... check it out!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-12718639552867589132012-01-21T09:16:00.003-06:002012-01-21T09:26:10.769-06:005 Fun Things Friday<p align="center"><a title="5 Fun Things Friday by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6736128341/"><img alt="5 Fun Things Friday" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6736128341_04d0f7f0fc.jpg" width="217" height="360" /></a></p><div align="justify">Sorry for the delay this week; I've been working behind the scenes on my new blog design. And it's been a giant, time-consuming pain, BUT... it's going to be SOOOOO BEAUTIFUL!!! Here's a teeny, tiny peek:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6736166979/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6736166979_dd1825227b_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">The change involves a new blog address, which is featured on the 5 Fun Things button above. I'm looking to "go live" on Monday, January 30, 2012.<br /><br />Now, back to business. Below you'll find my 5 Favorite Things for the week:</div><br /><div align="justify">1. I'm quite fond of color generators and used <a href="http://www.colorcombos.com/index.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">THIS ONE</span></a> to help sync up all of my web colors. (You'll find the color hex values here in addition to all sorts of other tools.)</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="colors-sample by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6736225801/"><img alt="colors-sample" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6736225801_6e8220752a_o.jpg" width="500" height="179" /></a></p><div align="justify">Big Huge Labs will also generate a color palette based on colors in a photo (how cool is that?!), click <a href="http://bighugelabs.com/colors.php"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to see how it works.<br /><br />2. Sometimes the best "prop" is an outfit. This one would be perfect for a mini Valentine's Day session:</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812566965/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/1900024812566965_0EXhCcBy_c.jpg" width="350" height="410" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65695190/red-heart-valentines-day-tie-shirt?utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">3. Stumbled upon this lovely piece of chocolate...</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812566961/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/1900024812566961_PqOCnBlm_c.jpg" width="350" height="262" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63651840/gourmet-chocolate-angel-ambrelia-is?utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">And thought it would make a beautiful Valentine's Day gift for someone special.</div><br /><div align="justify">4. Love these vintage-inspired cards!</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812567092/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets3.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812567092_AQWiaa4K_c.jpg" width="350" height="500" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/stationery/send-my-love-valentine-set">modcloth.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">5. I've been craving COLOR lately and this dress is calling out to me:</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812567116/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets4.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812567116_koizHDCJ_c.jpg" width="350" height="500" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/tart-and-soul-dress#">modcloth.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Happy Belated Friday!!!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-75899903734333876602012-01-18T14:37:00.019-06:002012-01-18T15:24:32.527-06:00got a few changes in the works<p align="center"><a title="tinavega-logo by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6721893931/"><img alt="tinavega-logo" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6721893931_7df5a9720d.jpg" width="500" height="207" /></a></p><div align="justify">In addition to the new logo, packaging, and pending blog facelift I will be introducing several new products and packages. [Both digital AND print packages.]</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6721983485/" title="family mini album by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6721983485_abc0481bdd.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt=""></a></p><div align="justify">Along with incentives for placing timely orders. And for referring friends and family my way :) But first I must tackle this dreaded pile:</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6721883413/" title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6721883413_9088a44c3c_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt=""></a></p><div align="justify">My Minnesota sales tax is due to be filed in just two short weeks; just one of the many joys of owning a small business.</div><br /><div align="justify"><strong>Not.</strong></div><br /><div align="justify">Once my paperwork is out of the way, I'll be able to devote myself fully to "going live" with all of the changes. I'll keep you posted on when that will happen, once I know when it will happen.</div><br /><div align="justify"><em>Capish?</em></div><br /><div align="justify">Be back on Friday with my 5 Fun Things for the week. Stay warm!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-25456931886569547442012-01-16T22:49:00.002-06:002012-01-17T07:11:03.211-06:00new creations of minnesota<div align="justify">Tony and I first met Steve Tuttle of <a href="http://www.newcreationsmn.com/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">New Creations</span></a> early last summer and have since hired him <a href="http://tinavega.blogspot.com/search?q=basement+remodel+%3A%3A"><span style="color:#cc6600;">to finish our basement</span></a>, trench a sump line, and fix condensation issues in our attic. Come spring, he'll be back to build us a deck.<br /><br />Needless to say, we couldn't be happier with his company's work :)<br /><br />When Steve asked me if I was interested in photographing a new project, I eagerly jumped at the opportunity. In all honesty, I couldn't wait to see another renovation in person.<br /><br />And it was as amazing as I'd expected... just see for yourself:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="new creations sign by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6694562415/"><img alt="new creations sign" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6694562415_fcc315e4b8.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc full outside by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710696413/"><img alt="nc full outside" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6710696413_3a9efd3690.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc outside close by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710693733/"><img alt="nc outside close" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6710693733_36a8bb216c.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc back by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710707129/"><img alt="nc back" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6710707129_d33264c3a6.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc other angle by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710503321/"><img alt="nc other angle" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6710503321_54d877dfc3.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc island above by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710493209/"><img alt="nc island above" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6710493209_57e89e54fa.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc full by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710396117/"><img alt="nc full" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6710396117_739a7006be.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc island by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710397627/"><img alt="nc island" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6710397627_14f6b5ee93.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc cookbook nook by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710514811/"><img alt="nc cookbook nook" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6710514811_1e95214f6e.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc moulding by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710477713/"><img alt="nc moulding" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6710477713_1cd8e5f7a2.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc gorgeous floor by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710461415/"><img alt="nc gorgeous floor" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6710461415_5189c13559.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc sink by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710482129/"><img alt="nc sink" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6710482129_16452a821d.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc cabinet by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710495229/"><img alt="nc cabinet" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6710495229_1cc9246fa7.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc splash by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710480451/"><img alt="nc splash" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6710480451_d0ed5af789.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc railing above by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710649285/"><img alt="nc railing above" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6710649285_d74c363d61.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc railing by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710571749/"><img alt="nc railing" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6710571749_3a6facc3c1.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc fan by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710533869/"><img alt="nc fan" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6710533869_4ed0cf84ce.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc floor trim by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710568627/"><img alt="nc floor trim" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6710568627_4041c98981_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc stove portrait by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710458017/"><img alt="nc stove portrait" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6710458017_8035f0b36c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc island full drawers by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710624363/"><img alt="nc island full drawers" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6710624363_163c4850aa_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="nc artsy lighting by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6710630433/"><img alt="nc artsy lighting" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6710630433_9414b1df1f_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify"><em>Interested in seeing more?</em> Then be sure to check out their Facebook page by clicking <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/newcreationsmn?sk=wall"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-66627630858559211272012-01-16T11:44:00.004-06:002012-01-16T11:50:02.283-06:00life is art<p align="center"><a title="watermark foot selfie words by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703741673/"><img alt="watermark foot selfie words" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6703741673_8458dd9547.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">Click <a href="http://bighugelabs.com/onblack.php?id=6703741673&size=large&posted=1"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to see it enlarged.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-92139744993915759462012-01-15T21:00:00.001-06:002012-01-15T21:00:00.975-06:00double date<p align="center"><a title="watermark stars by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703737229/"><img alt="watermark stars" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6703737229_cd89eceb14.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">Although we've been friends FOREVER, this was our first official double date with Tilly and her husband.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="watermark walking date by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703734567/"><img alt="watermark walking date" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6703734567_438a57f766.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a></p><div align="justify">No kids.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="love you more by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703924361/"><img alt="love you more" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6703924361_3efd2262e7.jpg" width="334" height="500" /></a></p><div align="justify">Just us hanging out and having fun.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-34837383382700083202012-01-15T15:50:00.011-06:002012-01-15T16:07:56.574-06:00winter is the perfect backdrop<p align="center"><a title="snowy scene by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703772809/"><img alt="snowy scene" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6703772809_624a4d5aa7.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="pink by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6703774439/"><img alt="pink" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6703774439_c505a2a3bb.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">Click <a id="'6703772809&bg=" href="http://bighugelabs.com/onblack.php?id=6703772809&bg=white&size=large&posted=1" size="large"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://bighugelabs.com/onblack.php?id=6703774439&bg=white&size=large&posted=1"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to see the images enlarged.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-20237491974574511742012-01-14T06:41:00.005-06:002012-01-14T06:48:31.534-06:00popping in to say hi and...<p align="center"><a title="oven selfie by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6694561343/"><img alt="oven selfie" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6694561343_befbd6b080.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">...share a selfie I snapped yesterday while photographing a kitchen remodel.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="new creations sign by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6694562415/"><img alt="new creations sign" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6694562415_fcc315e4b8.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">Believe it or not, it was SNOWING again! Be back soon with all of the fun, colorful details.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-11647384193898845682012-01-13T00:15:00.003-06:002012-01-13T00:15:00.472-06:005 Fun Things Friday<p align="center"><a title="five fun things by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/5304283627/"><img alt="five fun things" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5045/5304283627_658196d461.jpg" width="300" height="500" /></a></p><div align="justify">1. I recently stumbled upon another fun photo app. <strong>PhotoToaster</strong> allows you to make a zillion adjustments [including the <em>fine-tuning</em> of those adjustments] AND has a bunch of texture options, vingetting options, frames, and more! (You can even export into <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/instagram/id389801252?mt=8"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Instagram</span></a> for even more photo-tweaking goodness.)</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6687975951/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6687975951_fa9dfc079b_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6688036387/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6688036387_611b2d2662_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6688021609/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6688021609_f3023e60b9_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">Click <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/phototoaster/id433671262?mt=8"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to learn more.</div><br /><div align="justify">2. Holy smokes.</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/iphone-slr-mount/embed"><img border="0" src="http://embed.photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/productImages/iphone-slr-mount-e14c.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></a></p><div align="center"><a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/iphone-slr-mount/embed"><span style="color:#cc6600;">The iPhone 4 SLR Mount</span></a> at the <a href="http://photojojo.com/store/embed"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Photojojo Store!</span></a></div><br /><div align="justify">You can turn your iPhone into a DSLR with this nifty mount.</div><br /><div align="justify">3. I have a birthday coming up and would really, really like this lens and adaptor.</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/diana-lens-for-SLRs/embed"><img border="0" src="http://embed.photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/productImages/7a0014d.gif" width="600" height="400" /></a></p><div align="center">Buy the <a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/diana-lens-for-SLRs/embed"><span style="color:#cc6600;">The Dreamy Diana Lens</span></a> at the <a href="http://photojojo.com/store/embed"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Photojojo Store!</span></a></div><br /><div align="justify">It would be SOOOO much fun to play with!</div><br /><div align="justify">4. Speaking of play, check out the Game of Photo-opoly.</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812530447/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets3.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812530447_2qY9mDgk_c.jpg" width="280" height="280" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.amazon.com/Late-for-the-Sky-4102345/dp/B000K6DAAG/ref=pd_sim_t_2">amazon.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">5. Another indulgent <em>want</em>.</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812530484/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/1900024812530484_WLAV6RZH_c.jpg" width="280" height="280" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-MINI-25-Camera-White/dp/B002LLHHQ6">amazon.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Especially when paired with one of these:</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812530490/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/1900024812530490_OBtbF3am_c.jpg" width="432" height="432" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.mochithings.com/instax-albums/instax-mini-album-v3/1653?utm_campaign=shopping_feeds&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=amazon_product_ads">mochithings.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Happy Friday!!!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-66415675536212092942012-01-12T15:04:00.004-06:002012-01-12T15:10:36.373-06:00lunch date<p align="center"><a title="blue door pub - benny & jiffy by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6686237847/"><img alt="blue door pub - benny & jiffy" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6686237847_07e8096288_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">At <u>the best</u> burger place in town, with the Jiffy being the best burger in town. (Peanut butter, pickles... what's NOT to love!) Click <a href="http://thebdp.com/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to learn more about the Blue Door Pub and <a href="http://thebdp.com/?page_id=22"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to learn more about the Jiffy.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-77622739600165512292012-01-11T15:43:00.013-06:002012-01-11T16:28:15.523-06:00now this is more like it [and not in a good way]<p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6680912047/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6680912047_7411952f59.jpg" width="320" height="480" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="snow by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6681117787/"><img alt="snow" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6681117787_5407030470_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="one day later by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6681114827/"><img alt="one day later" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6681114827_ce8701f745.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">The difference 24-hours makes. (Click <a href="http://www.tinavega.blogspot.com/2012/01/happy-happy.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to see my post from yesterday.)</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-50841955128947781332012-01-10T15:12:00.000-06:002012-01-10T15:13:06.699-06:00happy happy<div align="justify">happy song.</div><br /><p align="center"><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ISgr8SgCYbY?rel=0" frameborder="0" width="560"></iframe></p><div align="justify">happy day.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="minnesota field in january by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6675058663/"><img alt="minnesota field in january" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6675058663_f50a7de617.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6675056079/" title="january 2012 by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6675056079_80942cabda_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="january 2012"></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6674968457/" title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6674968457_53b13f971e.jpg" width="320" height="480" alt=""></a></p><div align="justify">so not your typical january in minnesota.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-82166586229103439932012-01-09T09:38:00.001-06:002012-01-09T09:40:04.511-06:00cherry coffeecake & a couple other recipes from the retreat<div align="justify">I meant to post these earlier but got swept up into All Things Christmas after returning home from the December Weekend Scrapbooking Retreat. Which is a bummer because the Cherry Coffeecake would have made for *the perfect* Christmas Day breakfast.<br /><br />At least it did for my family :)<br /><br />Perhaps you could save it to use on Valentine's Day. With all of the red (cherries) and white (icing) it really would be a spectacular breakfast then as well. I must confess that it is rather sweet and gooey so it is served best with something salty. Like bacon. Lots of it.</div><br /><div align="justify">You'll want to begin with a box of yellow cake mix. (I already warned you it was sweet and gooey.) Mix 1-1/2 cups of the cake mix with 2 eggs, 2/3 c. warm water, 2 packets of instant dry yeast, and 1 c. of flour.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616213785/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6616213785_3529dd2304_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616219465/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6616219465_b0efe080e6_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616227233/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6616227233_0e4d8c7dc2_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">Spread it into a 13"x9" pan and top with pie filling.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616236685/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6616236685_89cdf15dd4_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616242129/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6616242129_dc94e0f0d0_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">In a separate bowl, mix remaining cake mix with margarine until mixture is crumbly and sprinkle on top of pie filling.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616246493/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6616246493_f8178a4557_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes and drizzle glaze over warm cake.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616254751/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6616254751_c98b514e8b_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">And enjoy!</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6616309339/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6616309339_12974f32b6_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">The full recipe is below:</div><br /><div align="justify"><strong><u>Cherry Coffeecake</u><br /><br />1 box yellow cake mix, divided<br />2 eggs<br />2/3 c. warm water<br />2 pkgs. instant dry yeast<br />1 c. all-purpose flour<br />21-oz. can cherry pie filling<br />5 T. margarine, melted<br /><br />Mix 1-1/2 cups cake mix with eggs, water, yeast, and flour. Beat for 2 minutes. Spread into 13"x9" pan. Top with pie filling. In a separate bowl, mix remaining cake mix with margarine until mixture is crumbly and sprinkle on top of pie filling. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.<br /><br /><u>Glaze </u><br /><br />1 c. powdered sugar<br />1 T. water<br />1 T. corn syrup<br /><br />Mix all ingredients together and drizzle over warm cake.</div></strong><br /><div align="justify">Too, those of you who attended the retreat can attest to the truly divine nature of the dips made by Kim that weekend. I've since had requests for the dip recipes and thought I'd better get those up pronto as well. (Superbowl Sunday is coming up after all.) Here you go!</div><br /><strong><div align="justify"><u>Kim's Bacon Ranch Dip </u><br /><br />16 oz. of Sour Cream (I use the good stuff no lite or fat free)<br />1 jar of Real Bacon Bits (found in salad dressing aisle)<br />1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Mix<br />1-1/2 cups of shredded cheese (almost a full bag)<br />Mix, chill and enjoy with wheat thins (another cracker would work too, I just always use wheat thins).</div></strong><br /><strong><div align="justify"><u>Kim's Queso Dip</u></div><br /><div align="justify">16 oz of Velveeta Cheese (cube and melt in pan on low heat)<br />1 can of Rotel Tomatoes (added it to the pan of cubed cheese)<br />While this is melting together, cook a tube of Jimmy Dean sausage in a pan, drain and then add to the cheese mixture when it is all melted. (I usually put the contents in a crockpot on low, or keep warm setting.)</div></strong><br /><div align="justify">We also enjoyed a tasty pumpkin dip (courtesy of Crystal). I'll try to hunt that one down as well!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-47686614176838247612012-01-08T23:45:00.001-06:002012-01-09T00:19:57.506-06:00i heart faces :: best face of 2011<p align="center"><a title="i heart faces :: best face of 2011 by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6654542669/"><img alt="i heart faces :: best face of 2011" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6654542669_e41dd69f25_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">My personal favorite from 2011, straight out of the camera.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="I-Heart-Faces-button by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.iheartfaces.com/"><img alt="I-Heart-Faces-button" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6654225545_0428d022e1_m.jpg" width="160" height="160" /></a></p><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-53258078369633262272012-01-08T09:39:00.000-06:002012-01-08T09:39:36.518-06:00little suprises<div align="justify">An average tool bench:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="average tool bench by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6654796257/"><img alt="average tool bench" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6654796257_d0d060219a.jpg" width="500" height="357" /></a></p><div align="justify">And its not-so-average contents:</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6654798075/" title="dino surprise by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6654798075_4f99e706b2.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="dino surprise"></a></p><div align="justify">Something tells me he's in lockdown for a reason.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-40175190456279674932012-01-07T11:49:00.003-06:002012-01-07T12:08:01.059-06:00family mealtime, my e-mealz binder & favorite cookbooks<div align="justify">Family mealtime is a big deal around here. The table is set and food is served with everyone pitching in. And we've been doing this pretty much <strong>daily</strong> for the last several months.</div><br /><div align="justify">It's become a ritual, something we all look forward to - not just for the meal itself. Conversation centers around a game called "HIGH/LOW" where each person takes turns sharing a high and low point from their day. We have also recently added a bonus question each night from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Family-Dinner-Box-Of-Questions/dp/B004XAF9G8/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1325889114&sr=1-2"><span style="color:#cc6600;">THIS</span></a> tub of fun. (Similar questions are available <a href="http://www.amazon.com/TableTopics-TT-0102-A-Family/dp/B000FFET52/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325889083&sr=8-1"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Family-Dinner-Faith-Box-Questions/dp/B003Z8SZHE/ref=pd_sim_t_4"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> as well.)</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="Untitled by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6648789029/"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6648789029_02f54d3c03_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">And our 11-year old and 14-year old boys <em>willingly</em> share. [A miracle because hearing anything about their day was a rare occurrence before.] It has opened the door to some cool discussions and has allowed us to connect more deeply as a family.</div><br /><div align="justify">My monthly subscription to E-Mealz has played an integral part in facilitating the family meal (I wrote about it <a href="http://tinavega.blogspot.com/2011/12/confessions-from-former-kitchen-failure.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> in an earlier post), totally simplifying what was once <em><strong>so overwhelming</strong></em> to me. I print up my menu/grocery list each week and tuck both into a 3-ring binder for easy reference. If you're an E-Mealz subscriber, be on the lookout for free recipes on both the website and blog (I add those to the binder as well).</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6650038073/" title="e-mealz binder by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6650038073_df31566933.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="e-mealz binder"></a></p><div align="justify">Not every meal served in our home comes from E-Mealz. I'm still a teeny bit afraid of seafood (though I am becoming <u>much</u> more adventurous) and will occasionally sub out a meal with either an E-Mealz repeat or one from a favorite cookbook. Which is easy to do with a shopping list that is broken down like this:</div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6650039831/" title="grocery list by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6650039831_1e17900d75.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="grocery list"></a></p><div align="justify">The meals are numbered so you can easily remove unnecessary items. Piece of cake!</div><br /><div align="justify">As far as other cookbooks go, my favorites right now are:<br /><br />1. <a href="http://books.google.com/books/about/Heritage_from_the_heart_s_of_St_Henry.html?id=zXoAHAAACAAJ"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Heritage from the ♥'s of St. Henry</span></a> [A bridal shower gift from Grandma Deutsch.]<br />2. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gooseberry-Patch-Book-Home-Cooking/dp/0848734394"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Gooseberry Patch Farmhouse Christmas</span></a><br />3. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Living-Slow-Cooker-Kitchen-Tested-Mouthwatering/dp/0848731506/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325888652&sr=1-1"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Southern Living Slow Cooker Cookbook</span></a><br />4. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Living-Book-Christmas-All-/dp/0848733339/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1325888677&sr=1-5"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Southern Living Big Book of Christmas</span></a><br />5. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gooseberry-Patch-Book-Home-Cooking/dp/0848734394"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Gooseberry Patch Big Book of Home Cooking</span></a></div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6650036563/" title="cookbook stack by Tina Vega, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6650036563_351fc7fcf7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="cookbook stack"></a></p><div align="justify">Perhaps the dinner hour is CRAZY in your household with everyone off and running in different directions. <em>How about starting with one night a week? Or if dinner doesn't work, perhaps breakfast?</em> If you're just not feeling it and need a little more inspiration, click <a href="http://children.webmd.com/guide/family-dinners-are-important"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://nutrition.wsu.edu/ebet/background.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://www.barillaus.com/Pages/Expert-Advice-Detail.aspx?AdviceArticleID=2&AdviceAuthor=Dr.-William-Doherty"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> to find all sorts of compelling reasons to be more intentional about family mealtime. I promise you won't regret it!!!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-24941450267825069042012-01-06T09:17:00.002-06:002012-01-06T09:21:51.308-06:00this is beautiful<div align="center"><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/18XbqGiSjSI" frameborder="0" width="560"></iframe></div><br /><div align="justify">What a talented, talented mommy - this Christmas video is almost like a living scrapbooking. It will take your breath away.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-39773065945860476972012-01-06T01:00:00.022-06:002012-01-06T01:00:00.083-06:005 Fun Things Friday<p align="center"><a title="five fun things by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/5304283627/"><img alt="five fun things" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5045/5304283627_658196d461.jpg" width="300" height="500" /></a></p><div align="justify">1. Rain Boot Liners. I'd never heard of these until spotting them while shop hopping in Nisswa. They are absolutely adorable in person.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="boot liners by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6642604821/"><img alt="boot liners" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6642604821_dc43702866_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">You'll find some cute ones <a href="http://www.target.com/p/Womens-Merona-Rain-Boot-Liners-Black/-/A-13592688"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/betsey-johnson-rain-boot-liners-fleece-socks-calf-height?ID=600505&cm_mmc=Google_Feed_pla_pe-_-adtype-pla-_-target-19586772875-_-kw-&gclid=COef7NCSua0CFQcQNAod6GZQoA"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>. And if you're crafty, you can even make your own (click <a href="http://butterick.mccall.com/qs9011-products-11173.php?page_id=1278"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> for pattern).</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="boot liners by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6642611787/"><img alt="boot liners" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6642611787_3904925fc9_m.jpg" width="227" height="240" /></a></p><div align="justify">2. Check out this cute Word of the Year bracelet:</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812506952/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets4.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812506952_9pO8SzRX_c.jpg" width="450" height="299" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89689653/word-of-the-year-custom-stamped-bracelet">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">3. Love these SUPER ADORABLE sunglasses!</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812506964/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets3.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812506964_eg2ZOYZ7_c.jpg" width="450" height="450" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87437318/forget-me-not-blue-tura-cat-eye-glasses">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Plus a ton of others at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/momandpopsvintage?ref=top_trail"><span style="color:#cc6600;">THIS</span></a> unique Etsy shop.</div><br /><div align="justify">4. These Vanilla Bean Scones caught my eye.</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812506974/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://assets3.pinimg.com/upload/1900024812506974_1iRUjQvy_c.jpg" width="450" height="299" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83868123/vanilla-bean-scones-by-kittiescakes">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Almost too beautiful to eat! (Her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82003264/maple-oat-nut-scones-maple-and-oat"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Maple Oat Nut Scones</span></a> look amazing as well.)</div><br /><div align="justify">5. These would make the perfect Valentine's Day gift.</div><br /><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px; LINE-HEIGHT: 0px" align="center"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/1900024812506984/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/1900024812506984_NH7ViqcK_c.jpg" width="170" height="135" /></a></div><div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; FLOAT: left; PADDING-TOP: 0px"><p style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px">Source: <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65362570/tender-love-pink-fingerless-gloves-with">etsy.com</a> via <a style="COLOR: #76838b; FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/tina_vega/" target="_blank">Tina_Vega</a> on <a style="COLOR: #76838b; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p></div><br /><br /><div align="justify">Found them on Etsy at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Rumina?ref=seller_info"><span style="color:#cc6600;">THIS</span></a> shop (I think my favorite of <strong>all</strong> fingerless glove sellers). Everything is so feminine and delicate. Gorgeously detailed!<br /><br />Happy Friday!!!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-55936409504665955232012-01-05T12:31:00.001-06:002012-01-05T12:32:18.775-06:00spring retreat & nogsicles<div align="justify">I just wanted to remind everyone that the Spring Weekend Scrapbooking Retreat deadline is quickly approaching. You will find all of the fun details <a href="http://tinavega.blogspot.com/2011/10/just-heads-up.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> in an earlier post. A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to hold your spot with the remaining balance due <strong>February 1, 2012</strong>. Right around the corner. And while I can't make any promises at this point, I may even have an <a href="http://tinavega.blogspot.com/2010/10/its-all-about-egg-nog-chai-lattes.html"><span style="color:#cc6600;">egg nog chai latte</span></a> or two to give away that weekend.<br /><br />Yes, very much OUTSIDE of the egg nog season. <em>How?!!</em> you might ask. Well...</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="frozen nog by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6642260089/"><img alt="frozen nog" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6642260089_b6c781d1e9.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">I've been making little nogsicles :)<br /><br />So while the egg nog chai lattes are usually reserved for the Winter Weekend Scrapbooking Retreat, you may just find a couple of coupons attached to goodie basket prizes...</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="egg nog chai by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6642261749/"><img alt="egg nog chai" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6642261749_338e3a88f7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">Redeemable for egg nog chai lattes that weekend! Because <strong>I am</strong> capable of exercising self-control.<br /><br />I think.<br /><br />If you have any questions about the weekend, let me know!</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-62580970964461008562012-01-05T07:00:00.017-06:002012-01-05T07:44:22.570-06:00treasure hunting<div align="justify">Picked up a couple of sweet deals while shopping in Nisswa. Our first stop, the <a href="http://www.thechocolateox.com/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Chocolate Ox</span></a>:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="chocolate ox by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6636821211/"><img alt="chocolate ox" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6636821211_d22d52a785_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></a></p><div align="justify">Which by the way, also appears to have a summer shop located on the property of <a href="http://www.grandviewlodge.com/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Grand View Lodge</span></a>. It was filled with lots of candy. LOTS. Everything from jelly beans to fancy chocolates. (They even had an ice cream counter!) I chose some old-fashioned candy sticks and this:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="brittle by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6636932385/"><img alt="brittle" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6636932385_0cd4ec52a2.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">Um, yeah... <a href="http://www.jers.com/product/72/peanut_brittle_bites"><span style="color:#cc6600;">chocolate-covered peanut brittle with a hint of cayenne</span></a> - <u>totally</u> up my alley. Next stop was this cool shop that had a little bit of everything inside:</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="zaisers sign by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6636823267/"><img alt="zaisers sign" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6636823267_517db05784.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify"><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/place?rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=UTF-8&rlz=1I7ADBF_en&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=zaisers+nisswa&fb=1&gl=us&hq=zaisers+nisswa&cid=6707025091719902653"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Zaiser's</span></a> is the name of the place. Not only did I find a bunch of unique things to share in an upcoming edition of <a href="http://tinavega.blogspot.com/search/label/5%20Fun%20Things"><span style="color:#cc6600;">5 Fun Things</span></a>, they had a large selection of itty bitty sterling earrings.</div><br /><p align="center"><a title="earrings by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6636933863/"><img alt="earrings" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6636933863_baab2e9f3b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">This pair is mine :) They even have little safety backs for young children. (Some of the earrings were so tiny they were clearly intended for munchkin ears only.)<br /><br />I'm so fortunate to have boys who indulge my need for shop hopping (Tony even added to to the wintercation itinerary). Taking my own sweet time to browse through little shops is one of my favorite things to do. As silly as it sounds, I'm inspired by knick-knacks and handmade goodies. <em>What inspires you?</em></div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-57487005186357079522012-01-04T15:13:00.016-06:002012-01-16T21:57:29.148-06:00Monthly Faithbooking Crop :: January 2012<p align="center"><a title="mono mirror selfie by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6634972011/"><img alt="mono mirror selfie" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6634972011_65546a671f.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">The January Faithbooking Crop is around the corner! Join us at <a href="http://www.hosannalc.org/"><span style="color:#cc6600;">Hosanna!</span></a> on <strong>Saturday, January 14 from 9:00 am-3:00 pm</strong> for a fun and productive day of scrapbooking (or whatever sort of crafting floats your boat). As aways, the crops are FREE and include:<br /><br />•snacks and beverages<br />•hourly prize drawings<br />•monthly journaling lesson<br />•hours to work on your projects<br /><br />Just click <a href="http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/tinavega/Content/Pws.aspx?target=http://pws.mycmsite.com/sites/tinavega/events?id=1/4/2012&taskDateStart=1/4/2012"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a> and follow the instructions to reserve your spot! The rest of the year has been mapped out as well, future dates follow:<br /><br />February 11, 2012<br /><strike>March 10, 2012</strike> - CANCELLED!<br />April 14, 2012<br /><strike>May 12, 2012</strike> - CANCELLED!<br />June 9, 2012<br />July 14, 2012<br />August 11, 2012<br /><br />If you have not been receiving my monthly email reminder and would like to, let me know and I'll add your name to the list! (Just a reminder... please RSVP by Wednesday, January 11th!)</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8482677326714651088.post-30227779233452398682012-01-04T08:43:00.005-06:002012-01-04T08:50:56.323-06:00road trip bokeh<p align="center"><a title="night driving by Tina Vega, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tinavega/6634973857/"><img alt="night driving" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6634973857_de45918ba7.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></p><div align="justify">LOVE.THIS.SHOT. Especially when it fills the screen (you can view it that way by clicking <a href="http://bighugelabs.com/onblack.php?id=6634973857&size=large&bg=white"><span style="color:#cc6600;">HERE</span></a>.</div><br /><p><img class="centered" alt="post signature" src="http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/jennisajoy/OUAB/tvsigcopy.jpg" /></p>Tina Vegahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929599211588217050noreply@blogger.com1