The Pink Tulip

2011-08-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

Top 9 Super Foods for a Healthier You

You are what you eat so make good choices everyday for optimal health and a long life. These are all natural foods, not produced in a factory or plant. Most of these foods have immediate, as well as long term benefits. Try working these wonder foods into your weekly menu. They can help improve your health, and your longevity, boosting energy, fighting off disease and feeling and looking great.

Tomatoes:
These are amazing fruits packed with punch. They supply the body with loads of vitamins A, C and E, and potassium. The tomato has a high amount of lycopene, they aid in the prevention of heart disease, high cholesterol and cancer. Throw them in a salad, or sun dry them, or make salsa, even have a daily glass of tomato juice to reap the many benefits of the tomato.

Salmon:
One of the healthiest fish you can eat on the planet. Rich in Omega-three and amino acids, salmon provides support for your metabolism, and eyes and muscles, it improves memory and keeps your brain sharp. The oils in the salmon can make your skin and hair look great. Rich in vitamins also, salmon supplies iron, calcium, selenium and phosphorus and vitamins A, B and D. Grilled or baked, salmon can be a fantastic choice for any main meal several times a month.

Broccoli:
A very powerful vegetable, broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, folic acid, which is great for pregnant women. It’s rich in fiber which helps with a healthy digestive system. The long term benefits are great, and is said to help prevent diabetes, tumors, arthritis, heart disease and several types of cancer. Raw or cooked, a great choice for a side dish or appetizer.

Carrots:
They are full of nutrients for a healthy body. Carrots contain protein, calcium, iron and potassium. They are also great sources of vitamins C, K, B1, B2 and B6. They are known to boost the immune system. Raw or cooked carrots make a great snack or compliment to almost any meal.

Apples:
These are a good source of Vitamin C and potassium, they reduce cholesterol, strengthen bones and aid in the prevention of strokes and heart disease. Whether it be a tart Granny Smith or a rich Red Delicious, apples can ward off disease and actually aid in being full, and keep from overeating throughout the day.

Blueberries:
These little blue buttons are high in anti-oxidents and help lower cholesterol. Blueberries have been proven to aid in the prevention of heart disease, cancer and they promote vision and urinary health. These are great in salads or mix them up in the blender for a cold smoothie snack.

Almonds:
This is the most healthy nut around. Full of healthy monounsaturated fats, almonds also contain protein, fiber, potassium, and calcium. They are chock-full of vitamin E and actually aid in lowering cholesterol, as well as lowering your risk of heart disease and diabetes. They also have cancer fighting abilities. These are great raw or toasted over your favorite chicken dish.

Sweet Potatoes:
The sweet potato is a nutrient-rich vegetable that contain high amounts of fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Sweet potatoes are great at stabilizing blood levels, which make you feel fuller longer. The spuds also have cancer and heart disease fighting properties. They are known to help people with asthma, ulcers and preventing diabetes. They are easy to digest and aid in weight loss efforts. Sweet potatoes are great warmed up with a teaspoon of brown sugar.

Oatmeal:
Not only a great source of fiber, oatmeal good source of many nutrients including vitamin E, zinc, selenium, copper, iron, and magnesium and protein. Oatmeal is great for the digestive system, helps prevent heart disease and has cancer-fighting agents. Great warmed up with berries or stevia, or in an oatmeal raisin cookie.

Go Sweet 16!!!! Michigan State Basketball

2009-03-26T03:45:00.000-07:00

MSU is a 2 seed the Midwest Region and all signs are pointing to a final four showdown at Ford Field for the NCAA Championships. The Spartans defeated Robert Morris Thursday (77-62) and USC in a bit of a nail biter on Sunday (74-69). Led by Travis Walton and his season-high 18 points, the Spartans put on a staunch unforgiving defense in the final four minutes of the game, holding them without a field goal.

Will the Big-Ten Champs be able to defeat powerhouse Kansas in the third round? I think Coach Tom Izzo has them pumping all on cylinders and the green and white fans are hoping that depth and experience are going to matter down the stretch.

Here is a stat that I love: "During his 14 years as the Spartans' head coach, every one of Tom Izzo's four-year seniors have advanced to at least one Final Four."

Here's hoping we'll be partying like it's 2000 again when all is said and done, those seniors and underclassman will be carrying on that tradition.

GO GREEN!

Fabulous Scallop Recipe!

2009-03-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

Ok I have been hounded by my facebook friends for the recipe here it is. Simple, quick and tasty, ENJOY!

2 tbsp. honey
1 tbsp. oil (I use olive oil)
4 tsp. lime juice
1/4 tsp. grated lime peel
1/2 lb. bay, calico or sea scallops (I think we had about 14 large scallops)
Lime wedges for serving

Combine honey, oil, lime juice, lime peel. Pat scallops dry with paper towel and add to marinade.
Marinate, stirring occasionally, from 1 hour up to 24 hours. Preheat broiler. Arrange scallops and marinade in single layer in a glass baking dish. I used foil on the bottom.

Broil 4 inches from source of heat 4 to 7 minutes, depending on size of
scallops or until opaque throughout and lightly browned on top. Serve with lime wedges and if desired, and or hot crusty French bread to soak up the juices. Makes 2 servings. Recipe can be doubled, tripled, etc.

We used basmati rice and green beans any veggie would work well on the side.

New Ebay Templates in March

2009-03-03T07:50:00.000-08:00

2 BRAND new template from the*pink*tulip! Click on the logos below to take you to the auctions.

Hooked on the Bachelor

2009-01-19T07:31:00.001-08:00

Ok I remember the Trista and Ryan season years ago and have not watched in a while. I watched some last year with Deanna and Jason (whom she did not choose). Well since I heard ABC choose him as the new Bachelor, I have been waiting for the start of this season. He is a good looking single dad, and I married one of those, so I am sort of rooting for him to find true love. He seems like such a nice guy, has a three year old son, and has been unlucky in love so far. Will he meet the woman of his dreams? Only time will tell! So far I really like Jillian from Canada....I hope the cheerleader doesn't win! You can see the show and clips at ABC.com.

January busy month for thepinktulip!

2009-01-14T04:34:00.000-08:00

January is one of my busiest months of the year as a graphic designer. People want to turn over a new leaf with fresh me pages, one of a kind store fronts, and I started to offer a new product in December, blog designs. I have done about 5 so far and they are a lot of fun to create.

For 25.00, you get a nice, fancy logo, two interchangeable backgrounds and complete blog set up on blogger with matching fonts and headers. Sounds like a steal right?

Here is the listing on Ebay :) You can click on the listing and see the samples I have done. Thanks for looking!

Lipstick Jungle No More?

2009-01-14T04:15:00.001-08:00

Lipstick Jungle is the story of three working women in New York City. It's from Candice Bushnell, from Sex and the City fame. I am trying to figure out if this has been cancelled, NBC seems to keep changing it's mind...it was my new favorite show and I am a little ticked! Ok off to mail some lipstick to the NBC execs now!

If you like American Idol, check this out...

2009-01-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

She is the 2008 winner of the X-Factor, which is the UK version of Idol. Alexandra Burke came out the winner and she blew everyone away the last three weeks of the competition. Her version of her hero Beyonce's Listen in the semi's made her the stand out to take the crown. To everyone's amazement, Beyonce joined her on a surprise duet for the finale and I bet there was not a dry eye in that venue. Look for her in the near future, she has an amazing voice.

Here is the semi-final performance:

The finale with Beyonce:

Snow fun!

2009-01-02T14:08:00.001-08:00

It's all snow all the time in Chassell, Michigan. Alexa is thrilled with the ability to make snow angels on a whim, chase her brother and sister on the ice rink out back and have hot cocoa three times a day! Natasha and Trey are also spending lots of time shoveling and plowing with Kory.

We had a dazzling light and fireworks show over the pond also......

Meet Emily Dawn!

2009-01-02T12:19:00.001-08:00

This is Kory's neice Emily, she is 15 years old and lives in Ishpeming, Michigan. She is a singer, actress and musician. She is trying out for American Idol this summer, and she has a quite a following on youtube.com...... and here is one of her renditions by Nelly Furtado which I just love.

The 12 days of Christmas Michigan style!

2008-12-25T09:03:00.001-08:00

One the 12th day of Christmas my true love sent to me:

12 slices of bacon
11 glitter glue pens
10 Dr. Suess books
9 recees cups
8 rice krispie treats
7 candy canes
6 christmas cookies
5 golden barbies
4 hackey sacks
3 pair of pajammas
2 dancing care bears
1 13 foot tree!

MERRY Christmas from Chassell!

2008-12-25T05:07:00.000-08:00

We had Kiril and his family up for a couple days. Trimmed the tree last night and Alexa got up at 6:00 to see what Santa Claus brought!

Trip To Dubai...Desert Getaway...

2008-11-25T04:16:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos from our trip to the desert...we stayed in a wonderful resort called the Jumierah and got to go on a desert safari, camel rides and all. it was 85 degrees all week and a perfect little getaway from the rain in Holland. I highly recommend this place for any type of traveler.

Veggie Tales!

2008-11-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

Kory built a nice little garden in our backyard and it yielded some big vegetables. Now we need to make salsa! Alexa loved pulling all the tomatoes off the vines.

Wine Tasting 101

2008-11-06T10:46:00.000-08:00

We had the chance to go to a great wine tasting party Sunday in Wassenaar at an old Castle. They had vendors from Spain, France, South Africa, Italy and many others promoting their tasty vino. There were about 200+ varieties of wine to sample. Kory likes the reds and I like the whites. My favorite was a fruity white from France. We went with our usual group of friends. Then we went back to my friend Kelli's house and had Italian food. Enjoy the photos!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T02:32:00.000-08:00

Alexa had her party on Wednesday at school, and they we went out trick or treating Friday night. I helped organize the class party with a couple other moms. She was Cinderella and Aurora.

Addicted to Oilily!

2008-10-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

I cannot get enough of these clothes! Kory took me again to shop at the outlet mall in Alkmaar, the Netherlands. I bought a lot in Alexa's size, and I have some women's also, but I will list most of it on Ebay and see how I do. I should have over 40 NWT items in my store around Christmas, maybe in November if Kory goes home for a few days.

If you have any interest in anything before I list it, most everything is in a 4.5.6 (116, 128) size range. Email me at bspiroff7070@aol.com.

See my current OILILY LISTINGS HERE.

Learning Flash!

2008-10-18T01:14:00.000-07:00

My husband has been helping me learn Flash, it's a very complicated graphics program. It takes a static logo and turns it into a moving, "breathing" entity. It uses animation and each specific action take several steps to create it. This is my first attempt, I also designed the Ebay store front. Just click on the logo to see more.

It's Fall!

2008-10-18T00:20:00.001-07:00

Kory went home for a few days and took these amazing shots on our property in Michigan. I have never seen such color before! Too bad the leaves will be on the ground by the time we get there mid-December for Christmas. Had to throw the trout photo in also....enjoy!

What's Cooking?

2008-10-10T23:42:00.001-07:00

We had a cooking class at a local restaurant call Me Gusto! on Monday night. We made Spanish tapas. Our chef led us to prepare 3 dishes in teams of two or three and at the end everyone got to sample our creations. We made Albondiagas (meatballs in tomato sauce), Little Ribs with Pimenton and Mini-Goatcheese Pies.

Fall fever!

2008-10-02T01:38:00.000-07:00

Wow this last month has flown, with Alexa being back to school and all the activities that entails, it's been busy! Kory has been traveling a lot as well. I am the lead room mom for Alexa's class and that has taken a bit of time to organize the year's parties and get other moms involved. Our big event of the year is International Day in March, and we need to have have three tables decorated and have a craft project for all the K1 and K2 students to participate in. That's about 150 kids....and provide food as well. I am excited to be manning the USA table and we also have moms Greece and Brazil contributing.

Alexa is also doing ballet on Thursdays, she is really enjoying it. Seeing 18 little pink leotards fluttering about on the wooden floor is quite a site. All her little friends are in there as well.

We are preparing for our Dubai trip in November, not much to prepare but I am very excited! The weather should be about 80 degrees, and it should be about 45 in Holland so it will be the perfect getaway. Kory has 3 days of work and the rest is play time, this is where were are staying and I can't not be more excited, this mall is one of the top malls in the world....adjoined to the hotel too, so very easy access. Yes, it has an indoor ski slope also. Check it out here,HOTEL KEMPINSKI.

This is interesting!

2008-09-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

I think the Dems are in a tizzy over this one!!! 18 million cracks in he glass ceiling and a conservative Palin could get into the White House first.....I have to just laugh! Hilary must be suicidal, if Obama wins she is 69 before she can run again, if Palin gets in, well we all know how that would make her feel! I think a lot of moderate and undecided women like Sarah a lot.

A day to never forget...9/11

2008-09-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

Still praying for those families and NYC, God Bless America.

Running Log.....

2008-09-08T07:38:00.001-07:00

Ran 7 miles today in 69.10....took a couple minutes off my time. Very windy in spots, and calm in others. Hoping to get 22 miles in this week.

Who is this girl? Celebrity faces!!

2008-09-06T04:41:00.000-07:00

I have a celebrity pic and you need to guess the celeb!

Any guesses??? First clue.

She has a great track record.

First day of Kindergarten!!

2008-08-27T05:15:00.000-07:00

Alexa had her first say of school Monday, she is in Mrs. Noble's class at the American School. She has lots of kids from last year's K1 class with her. She was so excited to go, she has been asking every day, "Is it a school day today?" She was thrilled to see her new classroom when she got there. Have a great year Alexa!

Personal Best...6 mile time...

2008-08-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

I am using my blog as a sort of gauge for my running and to motivate myself. I ran six miles in 58.02 today and took over 4 minutes off my last time. I stunned myself....trying to figure out how it happened. I had a small meal before I took Alexa to school so that must be it! I usually just wake up and go. I might run the 5k of the Amsterdam Marathon in October with some friends, but I would love to do the half marathon. I can't run that in the rain though, too far and too cold....Kory says the next place we live will be warm so I will have to wait for that I suppose!

She sounds like Motown...Duffy

2008-08-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

I really love this song and it's been playing all summer on the radio in Holland. She is 23-year old Welsh-born singer, Duffy. Many are comparing her to the iconic Dusty Springfield. The song is really reminiscent of the old Motown hits of the 60's. I think she is going to be around for a while. I am sure most people have heard it, but if not give it a try below.

Custom Resells!

2008-08-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

I have a couple CUTE custom resells up in a size 3/4 today. One by Lindsayleila and one by Bonna Suka. Click on the photo to see the auctions!

I believe.........

2008-08-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

I borrowed this from my a friend's blog and added my own. Feel free to borrow it if you like.

I believe in trying and trying until you do it.

I believe in helping others out.

I believe in sleeping in late once in a while.

I believe in never telling a lie.

I believe women should work and live on their own before they get married.

I believe in taking a chance once in a while.

I believe in the creative process.

I believe that the United States is the land of opportunity.

I believe that education is priceless.

I believe that you look a lot thinner in black.

I believe that those that have no plan, really have a plan to fail.

I believe in my daughter's future.

I believe a kind word goes a long way.

I believe that true love is worth waiting for.

I believe in positive thinking.

I believe in having fun in the moment, but planning for the future.

I believe in family.

I believe in living a healthy lifestyle.

I believe in God and his son Jesus Christ.

Arte Y Pico award!!!

2008-08-16T06:42:00.001-07:00

Thank you to Painted*Patooties (Tammy) for nominating me with the Arte Y Pico award! This award recognizes a blog’s creativity and overall contribution to the blogger community.

Once you’ve been selected, please follow these guidelines and pay it forward:

1) Choose 5 blogs that you consider deserving of this award based on creativity, design, interesting material, and overall contribution to the blogger community, regardless of the language.
2) Post the name of the author and a link to his or her blog by so everyone can view it.
3) Each award-winner has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the award.
4) The award-winner and the presenter should post the link of the “Arte y pico“blog , so everyone will know the origin of this award.
5) Please post these rules.

I would like to nominate the following blogs which I love to read, you can get the links over to the left on my faves list:

a. Mimi Katinni-Clara
b. XOXOTova-Tanya
c. Pretty Baby Boutique- Annie
d. JamieBree
e. Monica Reid

Princess Bride!

2008-08-15T03:48:00.000-07:00

Nesrine and Robert got married on August 2, 2008 in Beirut, Lebanon. Kory got to attend the wedding, unfortunately Alexa and I did not go. Kory photographed the festivities and I was thrilled to see the photos.... fireworks and all. Looking forward to seeing you back in Holland after the honeymoon!

Congrats Robert and Nesrine!

When in Rome....

2008-08-14T02:46:00.000-07:00

We got to take a very special trip this summer to Rome. The highlight was definately the Coloseum. It was very large and quite ominous. We had a guide tell us all about the gruesome things that went on there over 400 years. We also saw the Vatican, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Enjoy the photos!

Unreal!! USA Swimmers take GOLD!

2008-08-11T01:25:00.000-07:00

The 4x100 freestyle relay team took gold, after being 8 100's of a second behind late in the race and thwarting off the French world record holders for a phenomenal photo finish. This keeps Michael Phelps dream of 8 gold medals in Beijing alive. He has two gold so far in his amazing quest.

This race seriously gave me goosebumps. In the last leg, the US swimmer Jason Lezak was a half a body length behind the French anchor man. Somehow he did it. Down but not out, he found enough strength to overtake the boasting cocky Frenchman, who predicted a blowout win, to steal the gold medal.

VIVA LA USA!!!!

August Contest from thepinktulip...

2008-08-02T11:53:00.000-07:00

Guess when I will receive my red star on Ebay! I am currently at 970 feedback. Sign up for my newsletter, and email me through my ME PAGE for your prediction. The winner will receive a brand new custom me page designed by MOI!

Existing newsletter clients are welcome to enter also. Just email me your guess. Thanks and good luck!

She makes 40 look good...Dara Torres

2008-08-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

She is competing in her 5th Olympics as a swimmer, which is an American record. She had a baby last year and is 41. Dara Torres is breaking records and shattering myths about women over 40. She looks amazing and seems poised to take more gold in Beijing this summer in the pool. Who says you can't look good in your 40s? Talk about inspiration!

How many days until Grey's Season Opener?

2008-08-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

Burning questions?

Will Derek make it back to Meredith before some awful ill befalls him?

Will Rose stay on the show or leave?

Will Alexa and Izzy finally get together for good?

Will McSteamy ever find long term love?

Will George and Lexie end up together?

Do Callie and Erica have any kind of future together?

Home Sweet Home

2008-08-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

After living abroad for five years, we decided to buy a summer home for when we travel back to the States. Kory has been dreaming about a log home his whole life. One came on the market near his parents in Chassell, Michigan at a staggeringly low price and we jumped on it.

The house has six bedrooms, 3200 square feet, 22 acres of land, and 1.5 acre pond. It was built in 2002 and it has been vacant for 2 years. It even has a doll house for Alexa.

New favorite photo....

2008-07-23T00:48:00.001-07:00

This photo was taken in Ann Arbor by my husband and now it's my new favorite! I love the colors of her dress and the flowers in the background. Very summery!

Smitten Kittens

2008-07-16T02:49:00.000-07:00

We are back from our trip to the USA! We took a lot of photos but I had to get these up of the kittens from the Pharm in Chassell, Michigan. Alexa and her cousin Isabelle were quite taken with them and wanted to go every day to play and hold them.

Also notice the new GAP. She lost her fourth tooth on the Fourth of July eating cotton candy.

Going, going, GONE!!!!

2008-06-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

Alexa lost her third tooth today. It was her first top one and she has quite a nice gap now. It's been loose for days and she kept playing with it until it popped out today. Here are the before and after shots.

Weekend in London

2008-06-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

We had a great three-day weekend in London! Saw all the sites, the Eye, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral...first time there and we are definately going back! We just happened to catch the Queen and the entire royal family at Buckingham Palace for her birthday also. Enjoy the photos!

Running, running, running!

2008-06-11T04:27:00.000-07:00

This week is the last week of school for Alexa. I have been ramping up my workouts, running 6 miles Monday, biking 15 yesterday and I ran 7 miles today in 72:15. I don't think I have done that since high school!

Makes me think of running a race somewhere. Kory would love to do the Hononlulu Marathon in December.....I know I could do it, but training in a rainy Holland it just not possible for me. I just detest running in the rain, and being bitter cold for that amount of time. Then going to run in a hot climate like Hawaii would be a shock to the system. Maybe I can find a nice 10K this summer in Michigan to run?

Adventure in the Dunes!

2008-06-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

My friend Kelli took Alycha and I through the Dunes of Wassenaar today on our bikes, and headed north on the way to Katwijk. The hills were steep, but the view was awesome! I have never done anything like that before being a novice rider. It was about 15 miles total. We stopped and shopped and had lunch in Katwijk on the ocean then headed back home around 12:30. It was sunny and about 72 degrees and slightly windy. Perfect day for a ride!

Here is a map of where we went:

The best.of the best.....Britain's Got Talent

2008-06-02T01:23:00.001-07:00

If you like American Idol you might like these. This kid won the whole competition you have to see these youtube links! 14 year-old George Sampson, a poor boy from London and a self-trained street dancer took the title and a 100,000 pound ($200,000) prize Saturday night. He also gets to perform for the Prince of Whales at the Roryal Variety Show. The first video is his win to get to the live shows. The second is his semi-final performance on the live stage. He did the same program for the final and blew everyone away a second time. I hope he has a long career ahead of him. BRILLIANT!

Aren't they cute?

2008-05-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

Our friends, Nesrine and Robert are getting married this summer in Lebanon. Robert is Dutch and works with my husband. Nesrine has moved to Holland and is getting used to the people and culture. She lived in the US for a few years for college and skiied for the Lebanese Ski team. They got engaged on 2-8-08 and are marrying on 8-2-08....I had to share their story and beautiful engagement photos.

It's how you play the game...

2008-05-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

With the sports world full of steroids, cheating, fixing games, this story is pretty refreshing. Grab a kleenex, you might need one ;) It's five minutes long but well worth the time. It's an amazing story filled with compassion and unselfishness. Here is the clip via ESPN.com.

New artist Sara Bareilles...

2008-05-22T04:11:00.000-07:00

This girl is amazing, I heard the song on the radio here this week and I had no idea who it was so I went right to youtube to investigate.

She is California-born Sara Bareilles. Here is the fabulous tune she penned, "Love Song". Her song debuted at number one on itunes also and I think she is starting to get quite a following. We need more singer-songwriters making their own music, not just the young girls that can dance, look cute and can carry a tune.

Trip to the Goat Farm...

2008-05-21T01:59:00.001-07:00

Alexa's kindergarten class went to the goat farm end of April in Voorshoten. We all piled on the bus and got to take the trip with them. They had hundreds of goats, pigs, a few horses and a bull. The kids had a wonderful time feeding and interacting with the animals. Enjoy the photos!

I have been tagged AGAIN :)

2008-05-17T06:15:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged again! This time by Honee from calico*flamingo!

You know the drill, 7 obscure facts, tag 7 people.

1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Here they are!

1. I could be addicted to youtube.com.....I could surf music all day! I am an 80's music freak. I could name almost any 80's song with just a couple notes on the radio or online.

2. I was an avid volleyball player in high school and we made it to the regional finals my senior year. We were one small step away from the state finals! Too bad the dreaded Dryden got in our way every year.

3. Most people have horrific aversions to spiders and needles, I don't.....now bees are an entirely different story! They fly and sting.

4. I started selling logos about three years ago on ebay. I never thought I would have an ebay store back then.

5. My secret dream would be to design fabric. Maybe some day, after I move back to the USA I can pursue that but I have just enough work to keep me busy right now and from climbing the walls.

6. I am running out of facts... I hope I do not get tagged again for a while LOL!

7. Patrick fell off my front page so I will add him as my number 7.

Actually he was in a movie called "Lucky 7" How freaky is that?

Now I get to tag people!

They are:

Nikki - dream*n*color
Tonya - xoxotova
Clara - mimi kattini
Shari - custom boutique child
Tammy - painted*patooties
andrea - lilgirlgemz

Is it the end for HRC??

2008-05-17T01:22:00.001-07:00

Is it the end for Hilary or does she have any tricks left up her sleeve?

The Magic of Photoshop...

2008-05-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

I have been using Photoshop for over 16 years. I am still amazed by the things you can do with it. I could play with a single photo for hours and be fascinated. This is just an example of a simple color change, and I turned it into a collage.

On this photo, I made the whole image black and white, then cut out the flower from the original and pasted it over the B/W.

David and Goliath...American Idol Finals

2008-05-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Ok it's really David and David, but the Archilleta is more like the David and Cook is more like Goliath. In a very predictable finale, Cook is a gritty, seemingly poised and confident rock singer at 25, Archiletta is a swoony, 17 year wonder-kind balladeer with a lot to prove. Two completely different styles, both very talented and versatile. Who will take home the crown for Idol 7? We'll find out next week so stay tuned.

Tutti Fruiti!

2008-05-16T06:07:00.000-07:00

I am very happy with this new, fun, summer-lovin' Mix and Match template! The bright colors are perfect and sunny and inspired me.....you can see the auction here...

Summer Time!

2008-05-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

It has been unseasonably hot and gorgeous in Holland the last 10 days. 70-78 degrees every day and not a drop of rain. We went and got some nice wood outdoor furniture from Sligro, which was my mother's Day gift, and a grill finally. Kory also picked up a kiddie pool for Alexa and she was thrilled to fill it up. Do you like our big orange umbrella? I think we are officially ready for summer now!

Alexa and Anneke!

2008-05-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

I got to meet my groupmate Erin (anneke*panneke) and her daugher Anneke and husband mark this week. They were in Holland visiting his family and they came to see us in Wassenaar. Alexa and Anneke were fast friends and had a ball! We had to pry them off each other at the end of the night. Thanks for coming to see us Erin!

By the way, Alexa's custom dress is by pretty.me!

My friend Kristi to win it all! DWTS...

2008-05-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

Ok I love Dancing with the Stars! Kristi Yamaguchi is the favorite to win, she is displaying the same style and grace she did when she won the Olympic gold medal in 1992. I met her and her family last year in Hawaii at a luau, she is so sweet and we chatted with her and she posed for photos with my niece.

Here she is on DWTS, one of her best performances this season.

Six word MOM-oirs!!

2008-05-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

My writer friend Tara turned me on to this! In only six words how would you describe motherhood??? Here are a few of my submissions:

Her tiny little grip mesmerized me.

You are a hero to them.

I hope she has hubby's eyes.

It's like looking in a mirror.

Spoil them with love not things.

Daughter can be your best friend.

Read some more of them here.

It's Queen's Day ...

2008-04-30T02:57:00.000-07:00

Today is Koninginnedag, or Queen's Day in Holland.

It's a national holiday here, sort of like the 4th of July. Everyone thing is closed basically, they have big open markets where people can sell stuff freely, there is lots of food, games etc etc. Everyone dresses in orange and it's a big party. Then at night they have fireworks....Amsterdam does a huge fireworks show over the water.

You can learn more here.

Alexa had her party at school yesterday...I got to paint some faces too, they had about 25 activities to do throughout the morning.

Top ten list....

2008-04-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

Green Bay has to be in a perma-funk since he announced his retirement. How could he retire after the season they just had? Here are the top ten reasons Brett Favre needs to come back to the Packers.

10. Beer and cheese sales in Wisconsin would go up
9. There are still a couple records he could grab from Dan Marino
8. Aaron Rogers is too injury prone
7. Youngest team in the NFL last year with a rookie running back phenom in Ryan Grant
6. A NFC final appearance in 2008
5. Brett looks too darned good in his uniform
4. Anxiety and depression meds sales would plummet in Wisconsin
3. More money for the NFL for Jersey sales
2. My husband would quit crying
1. A chance to see a living legend play one more time

Pizza Promise...

2008-04-24T07:09:00.001-07:00

This is hysterical! I had to post this, my husband emailed it to me. Here are some fun pizza facts before the video:)

Pizza is a $35 billion per year industry.

According to an American Dairy Association random sampling survey, pizza is America's fourth most craved food, behind cheese, chocolate and ice cream.

Domino's delivered 400 million pizzas last year that's a pizza (and a slice) for every man, woman and child in the United States.

Pepperoni is by far America's favorite topping, (36% of all pizza orders). Approximately 251,770,000 pounds of pepperoni are consumed on pizzas annually. Other popular pizza toppings are mushrooms, extra cheese, sausage, green pepper and onions.

The World's Fastest Pizza Maker makes 14 pizzas in 2 minutes and 35 seconds.

Super Bowl Sunday is typically Domino’s busiest day of the year. The Domino’s team anticipates delivering 1.3 million pizzas nationwide on game day—a third more than a typical Sunday.

Oh and congrats to my husband Kory who just got promoted to Vice President Of Dominos International. I love you and I am proud of you!

I got featured! Thanks Faeryhill!

2008-04-22T14:51:00.000-07:00

They are having a great launch this week and I am happy to be a part of it. This talented group of designers gave me the "SPOTLIGHT" on their blog also, take a peek here. Good luck with the launch ladies and thanks again for the invitation!

Someone turned 5 this week!

2008-04-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

Alexa turned 5 on Friday and she had her best friends over Saturday for her party. We had a cinderella theme and played carnival games at the house. Daddy provided the pizza and we got a cake from a local bakery. She got lots of fun presents from her friends and had a wonderful time! Those girls can sure pack away the pizza too!

Some of my HEROES...

2008-04-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

I love this show! We got season one over the winter and watched it quickly, then we watched season 2 on the internet, set up my laptop to the big screen TV! The writing, the plot, the multi-dimensional characters are fabulous. Kory Trey and I are hooked on this one! Can't wait for fall.

Alexa Models "Sweet Girl Boutique"

2008-04-02T04:16:00.001-07:00

This is a sneak peek! So no telling, the launch will be next week for the BDB Right Stuff Launch. I also did the group logo, so I will post it when it's up.

You can see the live auction HERE.

It's Tulip Time...

2008-04-02T04:01:00.001-07:00

We are starting to see lots of crocuses and a few tulips sprouting around Wassenaar. In April, we usually go to Keukenhof to see the display of 8 million tulips on hand. It's basically the Disney World of tulips. Here are a couple photos from last year's trip. The silver white ones are amazing.

I have been TAGGED!!

2008-03-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Allison of LulaBeeBoutique...how fun. Here are the rules!

1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

*************************
1. I would love to be a sports writer for Sports Illustrated...covering the Green Bay Packers of course.

2. I wanted to be a singer when I was younger and I love to watch American IDOL!

3. It took us three days to name Alexa when she was born. I really liked the name Brooke and Kory said OK if we could have her middle name be Trout. He was 100% dead serious. That's what I get for marrying a die-hard fisherman.

4. I lived in Michigan my entire life, then Kory draged me to Holland in 2003. I have lived in only one state, but two countries.

5. Alexa is one of 21 cousins, Kory has four siblings with lots of kids!

6. My favorite all-time movie is Somewhere in Time. A super-romantic film staring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour set on Mackinac Island.

7. My favorite show is Grey's Anatomy. McDreamy (Patrick Dempsey) is my favorite character.

*****
Now I get to tag 7 people!

They are:

Heather - Daisy-Head-Maisy
Becky - Upsiedoodle
Jen-Tie - Dye Divas
Deanna - Birdsong Bows
Carol - Monkey-Doodle
Erika - Abby*Doodles
Johnette - Sunshine*Kisses

The Easter Bunny loves Alexa

2008-03-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

Alexa woke up to find someone had left her tons of little chocolate treats and peeps from her bedroom, all the way down the stairs to the living room. She sure was surprised. The Easter Bunny was good this year!

Trip to Aquarium and Beach

2008-03-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to the Aquarium in The Hague. The variety of ocean life was amazing. There were sharks, huge sea turtles, sea horses and many others. Alexa was thrilled to see all of them swimming around in their little sea worlds.

It was a pretty cold day but that didn't stop Alexa, Trey and Natasha from goofing around on the beach. Daddy caught it all on camera.

There is nothing like having a sister..

2008-03-15T22:49:00.000-07:00

Natasha is visiting us in Holland for the first time is two years. Everyone really misses her. She is a sophomore at California Lutheran this year. Getting good grades and loving life. Alexa is way excited, as is Trey and Kory. This is my favorite photo of Tasha and Alexa from summer 2006.

International Day 2008, The American School of the Hague

2008-03-05T03:34:00.000-08:00

What an incredible Day! Alexa's school hold this annual event in February and it's a day filled with fun and celebration. With over 55 countries represented at ASH, all the kids got into the festivities. Everyone dressed up in garb from their home country. The opening cerimony was like the olympics with each class walking in one at a time. The k1 and k2 kids got to do crafts in all the rooms, and I volunteered in the fourth grade room in the afternoon. Just an amazing event.

Black Tuesday

2008-03-05T03:32:00.000-08:00

Well it's the end of an era. Brett Favre is unexpectedly retiring after 17 years in the NFL. I am a bit in shock, they had such a great year, and a young, talented team with a desire to win. It will be hard to fill his shoes, he played with a ferocity and the with heart of a kid. Set numerous all-time records. One of the best who ever played....he can now fade into the sunset. It's got to be a dark day in Green Bay today.

The One to Beat...David Archuletta

2008-03-03T01:57:00.001-08:00

This kid is amazing, I have watched American Idol every season since the first one. David Archuletta in 17 years old. I think this rendition of John Lennon's Imagine is brilliant. He changed up the song, added his own flair, and hit every single note with confidence. He is humble and adorable. I think he has the "likability" factor and the talent. Finale prediction? He will undoubtedly be there.

My top 3 boys:
David A.
David H.
Jason C.

My fave 3 girls:
Ramiele
Brooke
*it was Alana until she got booted :(

Play date!

2008-03-01T03:00:00.001-08:00

It was really warm a couple weeks ago and her friend Sage came over to play with Alexa. I love our backyard, totally enclosed and big enough to ride the bike and have fun. Notice the lack of coats! Alexa also had her favorite christmas gift along for the ride, Kari Skywishes from My Little Pony.

Taking the Plunge: Etsy-Style

2008-02-27T05:39:00.000-08:00

I figure why not?? I will not leave ebay but why not have other avenues? I am an equal-opportunity lister! My First store item is here. Thanks for looking!

Adagio Bleu!

2008-02-27T00:54:00.001-08:00

Wow those girls had some nice things to say about me! I joined a new design group...here is the welcome I got on the boards :) Thanks Heather!

We are honored to welcome such a talented and well-respected member of the ebay and boutique communities to our studio! Beth has been doing graphic design for a number of years and will soon be expanding her marketplace to include Etsy as well. We couldn't be happier to welcome such a nice gal and skilled designer to the group!

~~Welcome Beth!!~~

Happy Birthday Isabelle!!

2008-02-24T02:04:00.000-08:00

My neice is 5! I can't believe it's been five years! I was very pregnant with Alexa when she was born in February 2003. Here is one of my fave photos of my sister Michelle and her. Happy Birthday Girl! Alexa misses you and so do we.

Here is one of the little spartans to be!!

What is a HillBilly?

2008-02-17T02:06:00.001-08:00

Ski Trip Tignes, France

2008-02-17T01:56:00.000-08:00

Ok I do not ski, but Kory and the kids had a blast! We drove 12 hours to the skiing mecca of Tignes, which is about an hour from Turino, Italy. Alexa got on skis for the first time and went sledding as well. I got some alone time at the local spa. Next trip will be destination sunshine in 5 weeks!

How Do Your Graphics Grow?

2008-01-26T00:48:00.001-08:00

Dardi and I are hosting a launch for graphic designers Monday....check us out this coming week for all things flora and fauna from some of Ebay's top boutique graphics gurus.

Launch Faves!!

2008-01-26T00:08:00.001-08:00

Now I have to share some of my favorites from our launch. Everyone really outdid themselves. In no particular order, these really caught my eye!

CHEEKY*CHICAS

PIXIE*COUTURE---->now PEPPERPLUM

*LULA*BEE*BOUTIQUE*

BEAR*THREADS*BOUTIQUE

HBD!

Tulips!

2008-01-21T02:50:00.001-08:00

I have had requests for some tulip postings! These were taken at Keukenhoff here in Holland. Enjoy!

My Little Cheesehead

2008-01-20T01:38:00.000-08:00

This photo is two years old, but just thought I would bring a little more luck for those packers tonight.

Tomorrow Is the Night In Green Bay

2008-01-19T04:24:00.001-08:00

Big playoff game in the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field, winner goes to the Super Bowl. How nice would is be for old man Favre to show up those young bucks and take home the trophy? Can he beat the Giants and then perhaps the unbeatable New England Patriots?

At 38 years old, Favre has seemingly been drinking from the fountain of youth and would love to score one more epic victory before he hangs up his cleats. Gotta say thanks Jessica Simpson for keeping Mr. Romo occupied last week in Dallas so the Pack could reclaim home field advantage!

Team USA

2008-01-18T09:31:00.000-08:00

Fourth of July is only 6 months away. Look at this cute set by little*shamrocks!

New Tulip Template

2008-01-18T07:43:00.000-08:00

I love these Holland Tulips! Made 2 match for Gymboree's Holland Days. Click on the logo to take you to the auction.

Our Christmas Card :)

2008-01-18T07:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome!

2008-01-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Beth's blog! I hope to bring you a lot of fun and interesting things! I live in Holland, have my own Ebay graphics design business and like to throw some photography and fun pop culture items into the mix!! Enjoy :)