I got my swap apron! I'm so excited... and it's so cute.. It's a reversible half apron that cleverly includes my last name on the pockets in free-pieced letters. There's even a little bee above the left pocket. Shannon also included a nice kitchen towel and two drink recipes. (I've shared them below.) Thanks for a great apron Shannon, it was a fun experience!


Blackberry Lemonade

about 6 lemons
2 cups water
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup blackberries
2 cups ice

Remove zest from 4 of the lemons and set aside. Squeeze the juice from all 6 lemons. In a saucepan, boil 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add the lemon zest and juice and remaining 1 cup water. In a food processor or blender puree the blackberries and add the lemon mixture. Stir until blended. Pour the mixture through a sieve into a pitcher to remove any seeds. Chill and serve over ice.

Strawberry Cooler

2/3 cup apple juice
1 tbs seedless strawberry jam
1/4 tsp almond extract
1 cup sliced strawberries
2/3 cup ice

Pour all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Our niece Stacey graduated from high school recently. She's my husband's brother's daughter. We're just full our proud moments around here right now! Here she is with my mother-in-law Diane. Aren't they both beautiful?

My nephew Blake graduated and we're so proud of him! Here he is with his mom, dad and sister. His Dad is my brother Darren.



Here's the rest of my silly family. :)