Ann-Margaret's cupcake visions

Oh, What a Day!!

Wednesday, May 20th, 2009

Oh, yes, what a day this was!!  My shoulder will definitely not hold out for the "long version" (haha) so I will give you the short one! :)  And, btw, thanks so much for bearing with me as I am still trying to play "catch up" on the ol' blog!  I am currently going to physical therapy 3 x's a week now and am trying to limit my time with the computer to see if we can get this shoulder to act a little less sassy than it has been.  Today, I headed to the DMV to get my new license.  Yes, it had expired, and I had not even realized it.  Do you know that some people do not always change their names with the Social Security office when they get married?  This can happen for a number of reasons...long lines at the SS office all the time, living overseas and not really thinking about it or needing to, and so on. Not that I know any of these people personally (teeheehee), but just so you know...you cannot renew your license if your name does not match up with the Social Security office (Well, let me just say that they are not supposed to do this...and, now they are really strict about it.).  Needless to say, people in this situation must go to the SS office, change their name, go back to the DMV, wait in line allover again...blah, blah, blah.  And, just for the record, these people should have a few different forms of verification with their maiden name on it.  Of course, after many years this can be a bit tricky...I mean, goodness, who really has all these old papers and such laying around with their old name on them?!!  And, after a day of all of this running around, back and forth from one office to another...well, someone just might need one of the above!  That's right...something cold and fruity!!

And, just when you thought you were getting up to accomplish so much, had everything organized, and ready to head out the door...Well, you might just feel like this guy was chasing you when you discovered things weren't going to go quite as smoothly as expected! haha  This guy was actually hanging out in the Cayman Islands at one of the restaurants we tried.  And, it was at this same restaurant,  "Breezes by the Bay", where I enjoyed the fruity drink above.  We enjoyed lunch there one day while tooling around Georgetown (back in January).

Now, back to my crazy day!....I must give a little "shout out" to the people at the SS office, as well as, the DMV.  There were a couple of guardian angels at both today, and honestly, they are the reason I was able to walk out of the DMV at 5:03pm with my new license in hand (well, the temporary they give until the new one arrives in the mail).  So, many thanks to those people whom are willing to go the extra mile when offering good customer service, those people whom are willing to smile at you even when they might have to stay a few minutes later, and those that are willing to just do something nice...even when they don't have to!!  Thank you!!  Just when I thought I might not even have all of this taken care of by the following week...well, it all worked out, and I accomplished even more than I set out to do this morning! 

So, here's to sweet people and sweet acts of kindness!!

Cheerios!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Tuesdays with Tucker...Keeping my Paws Crossed

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009

I was doing just that today...keeping my paws crossed...as we headed to see my eye specialist so we could find out if my eye is healing as it should.  It seems that the ulcer is about halfway healed.  Not exactly what my mommy and poppy wanted to hear, but we are all thankful it is healing. We were all hoping I could get this collar off!  Actually, I think mommy and poppy were even more disappointed than I was...if that's possible.   You must remember, too, that my ulcer was a very large one in the beginning...covering all of my cornea.  OUCH!!  Yep, I have been having a hard time, I tell ya.  But, I couldn't ask for sweeter lovin' and attention than what I get from my parents. They love on me and remind me that it's all gonna be ok.  So, the specialist did a little cleanup of my eye (Oh, I was such a big boy...again!!) and gave my mommy some new drops to use.  She is to continue with all the other meds, too, and we'll go back for another follow up in a couple of weeks.  The specialist said that we may have to consider doing the surgery for this condition if my eye is not healed by then.  So, please pray that my eye will heal just as it needs to on its own with the medication and that I will not need the surgery.  You can imagine that this concerns my mommy and poppy.  Thanks in advance for the prayers!  You guys are the best...it means so much to me to see your emails, comments, and sweet thoughts about me.  Aww...such sweetness!!  It really helps my feelings!! 

You know how much I love to hang out on the patio when the weather is nice (not too hot, though!)...well, we had a couple of small strawberry plants last year that are blooming again.  I love watching them because the strawberries are so cute!  Yes, they are a bit on the small size, but we have fun picking them and watching new ones appear!  :)  Just like my mommy says..."It's the little things that count!" haha  I don't eat strawberries, but my mommy loves 'em!!  Just wanted to show you what's bloomin' in my little garden!  :)

Tucker's thought for the day:

"A dog can express more with his tail in minutes than his owner can express with his tongue in hours."
                                                                                                                  ~Anonymous

I must say, I do express a lot when I wag my tail...my mommy tells me so!!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog. Thanks so much!

Happy Graduation, Kaylee!

Monday, May 18th, 2009

What a special day to celebrate...my sweet niece, Kaylee, is graduating from the sixth grade!  Woohoo!!  I'm so proud of you Kaylee!  Maybe I have possibly eluded to this before, but this sweetie is a big ray of sunshine in my life!  I can remember my sixth grade graduation, and I emailed my sister to be sure to tell Kaylee that I will be singing right along with her as they sing "Pass it On".  :) 

And, here is the graduate with her big (TALL) brother! :)  Oh, Kaylee, there is so much to look forward to as you begin junior high!  You always brighten the day for those around you and add so much joy to our lives!  We are sending you lots of love and a big hug on your special day!

We love you lots,

Ann~Margaret, John, and Tucker

"Happy Graduation" to all the graduated out there!  May you find much happiness and success on the road ahead!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Elegant Beauty

Sunday, May 17th, 2009

Just a few sweet touches to give this iris a vintage look.  The iris takes its name from the Greek word for a rainbow.   Why?  Because there is such a variety of colors found among the many species of the iris.

I love these beautiful flowers...So rich with history...A floral fleur de lis!

"God has sewn His name on the Heavens in glittering stars, but on earth, He planteth His name by tender flowers."
                                                                                                                                        ~Jean Paul Richter

May you find many blooming beauties along your path today!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog. Thanks so much!

Silly Saturday...Who's been in my garden??

Saturday, May 16th, 2009

Out in my front garden area, I have this cute little wrought iron flower bench.  When I finally got around to planting my pansies I decided I would put some in pots in this bench.  I am so amazed to see how these pansies are blooming so!  Oh, my...if only you had seen them as I was getting them planted.  I figured I would plant them but was not so sure they would last.  All the rain we had at the first of the month was definitely good for them!

When I came home one day I noticed that all of the pansies were out of the pot on the left.  I walked over to take a closer look and discovered that it looked as though "someone" had just pulled my sweet little clump of pansies right out of the pot, threw them in the flower bed, and added in a little surprise where the pansies had been.  I decided no one would believe me if I just told this story so you know me...I went in to get my camera so I would have  proof.  Yes, when I investigated a little further I found this ball of birdseed buried deep in the pot...deep in the soil.  No, this ball was not just on top of the soil...it was as though "someone" had worked diligently to get it in the soil and then cover it up.  When I discovered it  I actually  had to dig for it.  Upon removing this birdseed ball from the pot I discovered that it was one of those things you can buy and hang in a tree or such for the birds because the plastic piece that is in the middle was broken off but still inside. 

So, here it is...proof that "someone" has been playing around in my pot of pansies!  I am thinking it is one of those devilish little squirrels that I have had problems with before.  They love to dig in my flower pots and plant their acorns and such deep in the dirt.  Oh, they make me mad!!  I will have spent time planting my flowers, keeping them watered, looking after them...only to find big holes in my dirt with the flowers hanging over the edge of the pot!  Ugh!!  But, as I began to imagine a squirrel doing this, I began to think about how I really do not want to meet him...because I think he would have to be a really large squirrel to do such a thing!  And, just how did he get this big birdseed ball over to my flower bed, how did he place it so perfectly down in the soil, and cover it up so nicely??? I'm just wondering!! And, guess what?? After I placed the pansies back in the pot, "someone" came back and tossed them out again.  No more birdseed balls though!!  However, when I put the pansies back I just put the birdseed ball to the side down in the greenery you see.  When I discovered the pansies tossed out another day the birdseed ball was also gone!  Yes, it was...I looked!!  How big is this squirrel anyway??

I am happy to report that my pansies have remained in their pot, and they are looking oh, so colorful!! Guess "someone" figured they  had met their match!  As long as he takes them out...well, I will put them right back!! But, if it happens again, I am so going to put a video camera out there just so I can catch the little garden terror!!

Here's a little gardening tip for you that was passed down to me from my mom and granny:

Place shavings of Irish Spring soap around your flowers if the squirrels are bothering them.  The squirrels do not like the scent of the soap and will stay away!  :) 

Garden Tip Reality:

Yes, this really does work. I have tried it and had success with it keeping the squirrels away.  However, some squirrels are a bit more determined, I suppose, as I have had a few times when it just didn't seem to bother them.  So, I suppose this tip depends on the personality of your local squirrels! 

Happy Gardening!!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Accessories for the Girl that Loves to Golf!

Friday, May 15th, 2009

Are you the "Queen of Golf" (just click on the link to view this pendant in the shoppe), or do you have a friend that is?  Well, here are a couple of new pendant designs you will love if golf just happens to be your game!  These make such fun gifts for a girlfriend, mom, or sister that loves golfing.  Pair this pendant with a black leather necklace or one of my small sterling silver cable necklaces for a stunning look!

And, of course, if you love golfing, then, you probably  have some fabulous attire for your favorite sport.  Need a new accessory to add a little pizazz to that outfit?  This cute pendant (just click on the link to view it in the shoppe)  is sure to add a touch of whimsy to your game!  I love all the bright colors in this design, and this pendant will also look great hanging from a black leather necklace or pretty silver chain. 

I have more designs to add to the shoppe so stay tuned!  Bright colors, captured moments, unique designs...ooh la la...coming soon!!

Have a great day...and, don't forget to ACCESSORIZE!!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

My Personal Road to Recovery

Thursday, May 14th, 2009

This is my first week with a new therapist.  My doctor and I agreed that I needed "one on one" therapy with an actual therapist so I had to be on a waiting list for a few weeks at a new place, but I definitely feel I will begin to feel the benefits of therapy now.  It's somewhat like being on a "road to recovery".  The road winds at times, there are twists and turns, and sometimes it will be a bit rocky.  However, there will be times when I feel as though I am flying downhill (in a good way!)...as though I am on a bicycle with my legs out to the side...no need for pedaling...because I am flying high and easy!  Yep, those are the moments I am looking for...anticipating!  I am not there yet, and honestly, I am now realizing that I have a long way to go to get where this body needs to be when it comes to my shoulder and its accompanying issues.  I have been...well, let's just say..."not so nice to my body at times"...putting it in awkward sitting positions, not focusing on my posture enough, and staying at the computer a bit too long.  But, the good thing is I can learn from my mistakes!

It may look as though there is a big mountain ahead of me right now, but I am determined that with the help of my great  new therapist (and, the sweet intern that is also working with me) that I will eventually feel as though I am standing on top of the mountain!  I will be so excited about the accomplishments I will have made and will feel much better.  And, I will walk away with more knowledge about how to take care of my body!  So, even though the road is looking rather long right now, and I do find myself wanting to say "Are we there yet??"...Well, I will make it!!  And, yes, my endurance will be tested, but I will be stronger in so many ways!! 

LIFE is always a JOURNEY...in one way or another.  It's the path we CHOOSE to take that makes the all the difference!
                                                                                                                                            ~Ann~Margaret

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Magazine Junkie

Wednesday, May 13th, 2009

I have a confession to make...Yes, I am truly a MAGAZINE JUNKIE!! No denying it, no tiptoeing around the issue...just the cold, hard facts!!  :)  But, I am not seeking therapy!! haha  Oh, I do love pretty magazines...those filled with ideas for home decor, yummy recipes, health tips, interesting art and photography...love, love, love all of these things!!  The above picture was taken about a year and a half ago while we were in Oregon.  I will share some pictures from that trip later on.  It is such a beautiful place.  We were enjoying the great outdoors when these pictures were made.  We were staying at a beautiful resort, and there were adirondack chairs out front just beckoning us to relax and enjoy the view.  And, we did just that!!  I love Southern Lady magazine...don't you??  And, of course, another favorite of mine is Teatime...I know...surprise, surprise!! 

I love sitting out on our deck on a sunny day reading with my hubby.  Sometimes I will grab a book to read, but I often enjoy taking some of my favorite magazines outside as I enjoy a little relaxing.  I created a Hawaiian paradise on our deck last year with colorful flowers and several palm trees.  I loved it...and, John did, too!! However, this year he keeps telling me that tI really don't need all those palms.  OH....YES...I...DO!!!    I have yet to create "paradise" out there just yet, but I'm working on it.  I even have a sweet friend in Australia whom is also a "magazine junkie" just like me so I'll send a little shout out to Shelby!!  Shelby was so sweet to send me a few of her favorite Australian magazines a while back.  Oh, they are beautiful!!  I am still enjoying them, Shelby!!  Thanks so much for sharing some of your favorites with me!!  I'll be telling you a little more about this sweet friend soon.  She has an amazing business I want to share with you.  Time to head to Australia...there's a friend there I would love to have tea with!! :)  One day...one day!!

Do you have a favorite magazine?  Or, maybe you are like me and have a few favorites!! And, are you also like me and have pretty baskets, wire containers, or such holding these treasures?  I actually shipped some of my favorites to Kuwait when we moved!  Shh....don't tell John...he's still not sure what's in that trunk!! haha  I would love to hear how you store/display your favorite magazines that you just cannot part with!  Send me an email...just click on "contact" at the top, or click on "comments" at the bottom of this post to send me a message.  If you are new to leaving comments on blogs just go to this post for a little tutorial.  I love hearing from you!!

And, of course, a little relaxing just wouldn't be complete if Tucker was not by my side.  He loves to read, too!  However, it tends to make him a little sleepy so he often enjoys a nap after a few chapters!! :)  Oh, he wanted me to let you know that he is so sorry he missed blogging yesterday for his "Tuesdays with Tucker" post.  As you know, he has been a little under the weather due to his eye ulcer so he took the day off.  He will have a fun post next week for you so be sure to check it out!! :)

READING...

Opens up your mind to new dreams, sparks your creativity, allows your thoughts to travel to new places, and opens up new windows of inspiration! 

A favorite book or magazine...comfy chair...cuppa tea...

What a perfect afternoon!

Enjoy your day!!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Dare to be Different!

Tuesday, May 12th, 2009

Be Different

Be Unique

Be YOU!!

Stand out in the crowd, and let others recognize all of the beautiful qualities you possess!!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe
All rights reserved. Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!

Steppin' Out in Style

Monday, May 11th, 2009

Whether you are heading out to meet the girls for lunch, on vacation with your sweetie, or simply running out to do a bit of shopping, you want to look stylish with a dash of summertime flair!  Here are a couple of my favorite accessories that will have you looking cute and sassy in no time!  Of course, you want to show off that fabulous pedicure so grab a pair of these Yellowbox flip flops!  And, could they be any cuter when paired with my sassy Zebra Initial buckle?!!  Too cute!!  Lots of compliments headed your way when you step out in these accessories!!  And, you know how much fun my buckles are...they're a "SNAP"!!  Yep, that's right...literally...just unsnap one buckle and put on another favorite to coordinate with your mood or outfit!  :)  I love this buckle with a black embossed leather belt from the shoppe. 

Here's hoping you're having a fun and stylish day!

2006~2009 Copyright Ann~Margaret's SpecialTea Shoppe  
All rights reserved.  Please do not copy/use photos, text, or images (graphics).
Feel free to link to my blog.  Thanks so much!