Kingston Girl

Meet me Monday!!!!!

kingstongirl — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:02:00 +0000

Welcome to Meet me Monday :) On Wednesday night. :)

1. Would you rather be on ABC's Extreme Home MakeOver or TLC's What not to Wear?
Well, when Extreme Home Makeover first came on the TV, they came to our little town, it was a huge thing in our town, locals and people that just lived around the area were here to lend a helping hand. A time where a close knit community became even closer. I felt bad for the family that was part of it because I think even now years later people drive up the road they live on and down the dirt driveway just to look at the house. When they were in town for the first year or so after the show was on air, people would stare and point and whisper at them, so to be honest I have to say that I loved that show but now I think I need new things to wear and look my best so i would say What not to wear!

2. Do you have any tattoos?
Yes I do, I have my first one in the one place every girl my age..... in the good old US of A and another one is on my wrist its a awareness ribbon, but I want to have a few more, in the next year I want to get one that celebrates the birth of my boys and want to celebrate my 10th anniversary with my husband.

3. Do you tell your kids about things you did growing up?
Yes, my parents were very truthful with me so I will do the same thing with my boys. I feel like I was a good kid that didn't get in too much trouble and when I did I came home and told my Mom. I can only hope that my boys love me as I love my parents.

4. If the traffic signal turns yellow, do you stop or speed up?
Speed up baby! Better watch out I will hit you! :) I don't second guess myself if I am going for it I will just keep going.

5. What's your preference: chocolate or chips?
How about Chocolate chips! I would say Chips I love milk Chocolate but I have to say that my salt licks of chips especially at my favorite place to eat Masa :)

Feature Friday….. My good friend….. from Mac Kids..

kingstongirl — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

I love this girl so much.!!! She is amazing and as a fellow blogger I have to say that she is great at what she does for out community. Diane is the kind of person that you instantly feel close with, I know that this is a friendship that I knew at our first time meeting we were going to be close friends for the rest of our lives. This lady is just wonderful and what she does in our community and the connection she has made in our community and encourages other to make within our community is just a little glimpse on how special she is and her love for our little piece of the world is just why I love her and I know after learning a bit more you will too!

Macaroni Kid answers the age old question, “Mom, what are we going to do today?”

We've become the go-to source for everything Kid and Family in Kitsap County. Parents from Bainbridge to Belfair, Port Orchard to Port Gamble are thanking us. Macaroni Kid is their new secret weapon for streamlining their hectic lives. We help them find out about the coolest events happening in the area for their kids. We scour the internet, the cities, social media, and newspapers, getting up early to bring parents, grandparents, teachers and others the most current and comprehensive event listings. We're helping them save time and money. But most importantly we're helping them to have fun with their family and friends.

What was there before Macaroni Kid? Well, I can speak from experience. Since my youngest macaroni kid was a baby, I've been trying to find fun (and yes, mostly frugal) activities that were largely local (and only occasionally in Tacoma or Seattle). Back then, I was looking for baby signing classes for her and mommy groups for me. Over time it evolved into more activities with more frequency as I found location after location that had something cool and exciting that would be something great for a child to experience.

So, I found myself searching countless different websites, reading newspaper calendar sections, grabbing directories at the doctor's office, reading every flyer on every bulletin board I passed, and talking to friends about places they went and fun ideas to do at home.

Around this time last year, I saw Macaroni Kid national in a publication (it's been featured in “O Magazine,” “Redbook”, and “Scholastic Parent & Child”) and pulled up the website. From the national page, you can choose a state from a pulldown menu and see if there is a newsletter edition for your area. The closest one to Kitsap at that time was South Sound, so I signed up! I also saw the 'Become a Publisher Mom' button and clicked on it. The rest is history.

After several emails (because I had so many questions) to national headquarters and LOTS of thought, I knew deep down that being a MacKid Kitsap Editor & Publisher was an ideal fit. Heck, I was already doing all the work for my own family, so why not share it with others!? Plus, it would put my journalism degree to good use.
I've turned my passion for research and writing into a business. While I still maintain my 'day job' as a non-profit grant writer and (print) newsletter editor and designer, perhaps one day MacKid will be my only commitment beyond home and family. For now, I balance it all because I believe so fully in the vision set forth by the MacKid founders.

Since the introduction of Macaroni Kid in the Hamptons in 2008, MacKid has branched into hundreds of other communities across the nation. Other mom (and a few dad!) editors and publishers have found the value and extraordinary power of Macaroni Kid.
MacKid remedies a problem. It saves parents time. It's the perfect avenue for organizations seeking to get the word out about their events and programs, and for businesses to make their products or services known to the parenting population in Kitsap County.
Remembering how important MacKid is to so many thousands of Kitsap residents keeps me motivated. I appreciate the feedback I've gotten online and at events from parents, grandparents, and teachers such as:

"I love macaronikid because I have three young and busy boys and it's awesome to have a place to find activities inside out of the rain!"
-Hannah H., mom of 3 boys

"My favorite thing of Macaroni Kids is that I am a Grandparent and it gives me the opportunity to see what activities are happening best way from me to keep up to speed."
-Gloria C.

Military families, too! Macaroni Kid is the ideal resource for families that are transplanted somewhere new.

"Macaroni Kid has been such a gift to my family! We moved here just 4 months ago. When we get to a new area, we love to explore and see all the sights, but getting here (our first duty station on the West Coast) it was a little overwhelming findings things to do. A friend suggested Macaroni Kid, and now when I see the email, I get excited and begin planning our next outings!"
-Jodi U.

What was the world like before Macaroni Kid? It's like explaining to your kids the difference between a cassette tape and iPod. Either way, you get your music. One is just way more convenient, accessible, user-friendly, and holds more variety.
With one click of a mouse you can answer that dreaded age-old question – What ARE we going to do today?
Macaroni Kid is FREE and you get just 1 weekly email on Friday letting subscribers know the skinny on what's going on in Kitsap. Sign up for Macaroni Kid Kitsap now!
(when you do tell them Kingstongirl sent you!)
www.kitsap.macaronikid.com

Thrifty Thursday….. Laundry for a year for $20.00????

kingstongirl — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:43:00 +0000

Another week of Thrifty Thursday!
Can not believe all the fun things that I find on pinterest!
This is completely changed my life.
I found this recipe at my new favorite blog
being creative to keep my sanity

Also follow her on her Laurie's Pinterest!

With just having Twins and trying to get out of debt
( like most we have a bit of it and it just seems to never go away
Especially with two babies in the NICU for 75 days!!!)
So I am doing everything and anything to make it so we can live
richer, saving money as we go along. Money that is for the important things in life.
Making my two baby boys in to two great men with riches of experience and fun.
I found on Pinterest

I am so Sick of buying laundry soap!! This stuff I found through Pinterest is amazing not only because it is so much stronger then the store bought soap, but You only have to use 1 Tablespoon per load. This recipe makes a huge cookie jar full of soap ( I got my cookie jar at Wallmart)
1 year of laundry soap for less than 20 dollars?
Seems like a steal to me.!

Seems like the monthly amount I was spending on soap can now go in the cookie jar for savings!

I love the idea of not having to buy laundry soap all the time anymore. **This laundry soap also works just fine in HE washers**
Here is the directions to make this great soap!
Used it today on this nice shut in snow day and it turned out great!!
Love, love, love it!

1 ~ 4 lb 12 oz box Borax (2.15 kg or 76 oz) found in the detergent isle

1 box Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda 55 oz (3 lb 7 oz) found in the detergent isle

3 bars of Fels-naptha soap, found in the detergent isle

1 medium container of oxyclean or store brand oxyclean (try to get about 3.5 lbs total (1.58 kg)) found in the detergent isle.

(this is optional, I added it into mine because I like the idea of the extra stain fighter and did I mention I have twin baby boys? :)

Enjoy!

Next week make sure to check in to see what else thrifty I have going on.....

Wordless Wednesday……

kingstongirl — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:03:00 +0000

Today is the weekly post of Wordless Wednesday!
Because it is snowing outside here,
thought you would enjoy these amazing photos!
makes me love that fact that it only snows here a few times a year!

Smokey Veggie soup. Tempt my Tummy Tuesday..

kingstongirl — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:40:00 +0000

It is snowing out and they say it will be snowing a lot and we hear it is going to snow between 4 and 8 inches in the next 24 hours. I would like to snow like that if its going to snow. The roads where we live are so hilly that when it snows and freezes, you are on lock down..... So here is a yummy favorite that I make because it will warm nicely on the wood stove if there is a power outage.

Smokey Veggie soup.....

1 (14 ounce) can chicken broth
1 (11.5 ounce) can tomato-vegetable juice cocktail (Like V-8)
1 cup water
1 large potato, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 stalks celery, diced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped fresh green beans
1 cup fresh corn kernels ( I use the frozen kind and it works fine too)
salt and pepper to taste
Creole seasoning to taste
1 Tsp liquid smoke
1 tsp smoked paprika
Directions

In a large stock pot, combine broth, tomato juice, water, potatoes, carrots, celery, undrained chopped tomatoes, green beans, and corn. Season with salt, pepper, liquid smoke, smoked paprikia and Creole seasoning. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving Calories: 110 | Total Fat: 0.6g | Cholesterol: 3mg
* Photo credit from google. I forgot to check to make sure my memory card wasn't full and well it was and the pictures didn't save when a person like me hits delete all............. Crap! :) *

Meet me Monday…

kingstongirl — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:32:00 +0000

Meet me Monday....again. Time is flying by so fast! I wouldn't want it any other way. Would you?

1. Do you sing out loud in the car when you're driving?

Well, Yes, Yes I do. I am the next big thing in my car...maybe in my mind :)
I will sing. I will rock it out and sing my heart out. But, only until I pass a car or a car passes me or I come to a red light. Then, I'm all cool as can be and acting so very nonchalant. What I would do should someone see me same thing comes to play when I am in my car eating alone. Oh the things I will pass on to these boys! :)

2. What would you never be caught doing?

Singing in my car? ;) He!He!

3. Will you go #2 in a public restroom?

Heck to the no!!

Well...unless it is an EMERGENCY!!!

I have to have some major urgency going on before I allow myself to poo in public. And, then, I make as much noise as possible (flush toilet, grab tp, cough), or wait for someone else to flush before I go. It's a major thing, I can not wait to get out of there, Looking at my shoes the whole time thinking that the person next to me is going to notice what shoes I am wearing and then look me up and down in the middle of Barnes and Noble. Oh hell this is sad I am even answering this question on my blog. .

4. Have you ever broken a bone?

this past summer for the first time but nothing but an air cast.

But, judging by my crooked fingers and wonky hangy down rib, I think yes a few times... Unless the crooked fingers were caused from my ultimate sweet basketball playing skills that I hurt trying out for the girls basketball team my 9th grade year....never tried that again. . DId I tell you that I failed PE? For a few reasons but one of those reasons is because I didn't want to look stupid in front of people in school, I might not have acted like it but I was very insecure. I have to say at many times I am still to this day.

5. Do you prefer cooking or baking?

both but neither at the same time, I have to be in the mood for both. I am into healthy cooking and being that I am type one diabetic I can't have all the sugar so I try to learn new things all the time that have less sugar in it, I truly think that if I do this now it will help my kids not know the difference.
I know I said in pervious posts that I love my diet coke, and I truly do I love it because I can drink it with out it raising my blood sugar, I also love my Chrystal light and lemon and lime water. So to answer the question I love to and hate to do both my moods have to be right.....

Meet me Monday..

kingstongirl — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:28:00 +0000

W

1. What is the weather like where you are and do you like it?.

This year the weather has been so crazy mild. I am LOVING this weather. Today I went out without a coat. the temp reached 50 with the sun out and shinning and the sunset tonight was amazing as if we were in the middle of sumer.

2. When you're sick what do you seek comfort from?

A few things, My bed, my hubs and 7 up! .

Plain and simple, if I'm really feeling down and out, I just want to sleep. I'm pretty sure I've mentioned it here before, but my method of dealing with stress is to sleep. It's like my body just wants to shut down.

3. What do you need to do before the end of the month?
I need to get the house in order and figure out when I can re-do the Craft shed :) I want to do this so when both boys are home after our very long 3 months in the NICU in Tacoma, so I am doing what I can to get ready for when that time comes.

4. Have you ever served on a jury?
.
No. I haven't. I have been selected for a summons for jury duty. I forgot about the date and missed it so I have a bit of guilt about that but didn't get in trouble. A small Part of me thinks it would be fun and the other, the bigger, the much MUCH bigger part of me thinks it would be a mess.

I've already thought up several "mistruths" that I could use to get me "deselected". Depends on the case, of course. ;) SHHHH!!!!! Don't tell on me.

5. If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I would want to be my parents dog. Spoiled and loved to pieces. They are amazing to their pups.

Weekend blog hops that I did this weekend.

kingstongirl — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:25:00 +0000

I use to do these often and know that meeting new blog friends is so very important.

SO today I am doing a blog hop and can't wait to meet some new friends. Join in on the fun if you feel like it.

Join in with this as well if you feel like it.

Also make sure that you check out these other bloggers.

Thrifty Thursday…..

kingstongirl — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 04:57:00 +0000

The world around me is overwhelming on where to pinch pennies and where to keep it real. I have been learning from the best my sister Erin she is a coupon queen. Now we are not the stock pile coupon ladies that don't have a cat that buys 100 cans of cat food. With that being said I do get the things that I need to have and know that I will be using.

I have always been thrifty so I am going to try some things each week and on Thursdays I will give you the updates and what I thought of it.

How are you keeping warm this January? If you are in the Good old PNW it has been freaking crazy with warmth and not nearly the rain like we should have. Not even any snow. We have to go to the Mountains for that.

Our heat is from a wood stove and with two new babies in our house to keep warm we need to keep the cost down of the power, save on the wood for the cooler nights and keep them nice and toasty.

So this Thrifty Thursday I have had to adapt to the cold with some cleaver ideas......

Tights are being worn under my PJ bottoms and babies are wearing the fleece Pj's.

to keep the blood flowing with out new games we were given at Christmas.... The new Disney game, Some sports games and the new Dance game. :)

Home made warm and soft blankets are being used to their full benefit. A few extra on the bed and three on the sofa. Adding lots of lovely layers are being piled on. Its so cozy in the evening to snuggle and read by the fire or watch a movie on Hulu.....

Here are a few tips for keeping you and your house warm on the cheap.

* Place tin foil on the wall behind your radiators. Seriously it works. ( an old trick that most of our grandma's knows.)

* Find the draughts and stop them! Got the wind rolling in under the door and through the window cracks? Make a draught excluder(Google it) If you need a very quick fix grab an old pair of tights or a stocking and stuff full of newspaper. It's not pretty but when it's cold it will keep you warm!

* Put a spare duvet or blanket underneath the bottom sheet on your bed. It should warm you up on the VERY cold nights!!! It is a great idea to help keep in the warmth. I use a feather bed and that makes us nice and toasty as well. You can get them at Target for a King size for a little over a hundred dollars.

* Let the sunlight in. As tempting as it can be to tuck the curtains in to keep the warmth in, open them up to let sunlight do it's job. When the sun goes down make sure to shut them back up. You can add the sheets of clear plastic to your windows as well this keeps in the heat as well. Especially if you are in a home that was built in anything before the mid to late 70's.

* Get cooking and baking! Then leave the oven door open after you shut it off. This will give you a little extra warmth.

*Sleep naked under all those covers and cuddle with your spouse! :) I wonder if this is why we have a high amount of Fall babies.

Wordless Wednesday……

kingstongirl — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:58:00 +0000

Today is Wordless Wednesday and because of that lets stick to the same theme.
I will keep the words down but check out this link Historic Tacoma and see all the great pictures and read the rich city history.

Tempt my tummy tuesday

kingstongirl — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:53:00 +0000

So many yummy things to eat.... going with the Tacoma post so here is some Southern fried Chicken.

Ingredients

1 (3 pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 quart vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Roll in flour.
Add 1/2 to 3/4 inch oil to a large, heavy skillet. Heat to approximately 365 degrees F (185 degrees C). Place chicken pieces in hot oil. Cover, and fry until golden, turning once, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

If you want to make fried chicken, you can get good results using a fryer, broiler, capon, young chicken, and roaster or game hen.
Soaking the chicken overnight in brine or buttermilk makes the meat more tender and juicy.
Slice whole chicken breasts in half for more even cooking. They also cook faster like this.
Adding celery sticks to the frying oil enhances the color and flavor of the fried chicken.
Dry any wet utensils before they touch the hot cooking oil to avoid the hot fat spattering.
Use tongs instead of a fork to turn the chicken. A fork might pierce the skin and the chicken will lose juices.
If you like your chicken fried, try peanut oil. It gives the chicken a great flavor.
Drain fried chicken on a brown paper bag or metal rack. Draining it on paper towels might make it lose crispiness. In addition, covering it will make it lose all crispiness.

The above tips should help to ensure your fried chicken recipes are delicious. If you are using a whole chicken and you have some left over, you can put them in a pot with carrots, parsley, and water to cover. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half, strain and refrigerate. When the mixture is cold, skim off the fat and use it in soups and sauces. You can also freeze it.

A few things I love…. to eat in Tacoma.

kingstongirl — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:47:00 +0000

I have to say that I am pretty happy that the holiday season is very close to be under wraps and put away for a year. This season just blew past me with out warning, I do miss that I didn't really get to be home and that I was stuck in the hospital and the hospital housing.

While I have been down here something I never thought could happen has......... I have fallen in love with the City of Tacoma. It was always a city that I never really spent to much time in. A town that I would simply drive past. Now that I know all the back ways to get to and from places without taking the freeway. Ever sense my parents accident in September. In doing that we have fallen in love with some amazing places to eat and shop. 6th Ave runs from the first exit once you leave the Tacoma Narrows bridge you can drive it all the way down to down town Tacoma.

We have fallen in love with Masa a Tex Mex Restaurant that has a to die for Chips and Salsa and the best happy hour that is all day SUnday thru Wednesday.

There is a place to eat some wonderful. southern food called Southern Kitchen it has the most wonderful fried chicken I have ever eaten in my entire life.

My Dad took us to Red hot. Where I stepped out on the wild side and got a hot dog that had bacon and Peanut butter, it is a bar so you have to be 21 or over to go there but they go once a week to the Seatac airport and pick up hot dogs flown in from Chicago!

After long days at the hospital walking to the local areas to have a different bite besides the lunch room food at the hospital we found a few other places all within walking distance to the hospital. that we found we liked as well... A place called the Hub that has a brewery right below them, & the best Yogurt shop Called Gibsons, just to name a few of the places we have been making our regular stops in at.

Over the time that I have been here in the darkest emotional days of being here with my boys so sick I have become a person in love with the community of Tacoma, the business people, the people on the sidewalk and walking in the park, it is amazing to me that in this big city second to Seattle in our state that you can still feel like it is a small town. A love that I was very embraced and loved in. The town that has held us and continues to hold us and our boys while we make it a home away from home will always have a very important and special place in my heart. Do yourself a favor and make some time to go down to Tacoma and plan a trip on a tank. I will post the next few weeks about what to do and where to do it in Tacoma. Just try it
& you will Fall in love like I did!!

They are here!!!!

kingstongirl — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 04:12:00 +0000

This is my ﬁrst post in a while because our twins came at 28 weeks. I have been here for the past 37 days! This is the place to be if you have a baby that is a preemie or micro preemies like we had. The boys had a rough start. Especially baby B he has had the roughest time.

One thing that I know for sure is the fact that this was not in my plans for the holidays. We had so much we were going to do. This is my favorite time of the year, with all the parties and family gatherings and shopping and baking, decorating the house all the while listening to Christmas music. This year when we got the call that the boys were making their appearance on November 2nd 2011... I had no idea that I would not be able to get myself to leave them. I have completely changed over the past 37 days and the

person I have become is so much better then whom I use to be. I'm a mother!

As I'm writing this I have one son stirring in his little crib a big milestone at times we didn't think we would make it too this fast. I have learned so much this past month about myself and about my boys. In my arms is my other son as sweet and beautiful as can be I want them both to grow stronger but I want to stay in this moment forever. Daddy aka "hub's" has gone back to work and as lonely as I get at times I love these amazing stolen moments that I'm able to sneak all to myself. These moments I hope will get me through the harder times of sleepless nights and the terrible two's.

I won't post about the babies or my everyday lives on here so you are always more then welcome to go to the top of the page and click on the waiting for baby G which is my personal blog but thought that I would love to tell you all about what is going on in my life and this crazy new adventure of motherhood. There is so very much to tell. Thank you all for being here to be able to show me so much love and support. As Kingstongirl I am trying to do what I can so that I can stay in the swing of things and keep you informed on where you need to go, what you need to do and about all the great people that are part of my little world, that because of all of you have become so big. I promise to post more and do more, it has been a little bit of a struggle on finding my balance between my fun things I do and being a new mommy.

Meet Me Monday!

kingstongirl — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:01:00 +0000

1. Do you prefer cotton, silk, or flannel sheets?

I love different kinds of sheets at different times of the year. In the summer it has to be high end Cotton with a light blanket on top of us, so we stay cool on those there hot nights in the summer. In the fall and winter I have to have flannel with our electric blanket, makes it so warm and cozy and I pile on the blankets keeping us nice and toasty. Hub's doesn't like that too much but he can swing a leg out! :)

2. What time zone are you in?

Pacific!!! We live in a town close to Seattle and its a great place to live. One day I will live in Central time.... I miss my sister so much and she lives in Colorado, with her hub's who is my husband's bff and our nephew Q.

3. What is your favorite part of the holiday season?

What do I not like! Well for starters today is Halloween and my husbands birthday, my Dads is the 23rd so always around Thanksgiving. I love that I can pick out or make gifts for the people that have touched my life in the past year. It changes almost every year who we give to but I love the surprise especially with Hub's I always make sure to blow his socks away. He never reads my blog so I am going to tell you what he is getting this year. I am going to get him into a hobby that he can share with the boys. I also very much love the music and the decorations and lights! We do a thing every year, called Christmas drive where my mom and hubs and I get in the car and go look at lights with a stop at a local coffee shop get a coffee tea or coco and enjoy the Lights and music when we see light that we like we yell out "Chrisme lights!" I can not wait to share that with the babies.

4. What is your favorite "wintry" drink? (It doesn't have to be an "alcoholic" drink!) In fall I love cider, I just wish that they had sugar free, in winter I love white chocolate, milk steamers... with a splash of mint to it.

5. In your opinion, what is the worst job in the world?

Being a state employee on the Washington State Ferry's. I will post about this in the next week stay tuned you will not want to miss this....

Tempt my Tummy Tuesday

kingstongirl — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 02:34:00 +0000

Tempt my tummy Tuesday

It's my goal to show you all the yummy fall favorites that I have! One of my top for fall is the 30 minute Chili. Its really yummy and tastes even better when it's a day old and you re-heat it the next day for lunch. I always top my chili with Sour cream, chives & cheese. Hub's always puts hot sauce on it.

Try also making some corn bread or some really nice thick sliced Sour Dough.

Beer can 1 hour Chili.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 medium onions, chopped
6 garlic cloves, chopped
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
3 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cumin
3 pounds ground beef stew or chuck meat
3 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes in juice
1 bottle (12 ounces)beer
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

In a Dutch oven or large (5-quart) heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic. Season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add tomato paste, chili powder, chipotles (optional),cumin and cinnamon. Cook, stirring, until mixture has begun to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add beef, and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Add tomatoes with their juice, beer, and beans. Bring to a boil, and reduce to a rapid simmer. Cook over medium heat until chili has thickened slightly and beans are tender, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese, if desired.

Meet me Monday!

kingstongirl — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:01:00 +0000

Welcome to this weeks, Meet me Monday!!!!

1. Where do you escape to when you've had enough?

There are three places I go to when I am in need of escape, when I have had enough.... I go to Kalaloch its a place on the Washington Coast. This is a place where I have been going my entire life. I also love to go to Cannon Beach Oregon, it is something to do with the ocean. To look out and realize that my life is so small when I look how big the ocean is.

2. What shows are you watching this fall?

I am watching with the help of two DVR's all the regular ones, and some of the new fun ones............. Up all night with Christina Applegate, Ringer is pretty good, I am over top excited about tonight's 1st showing of Once upon a time, this is what I have been looking forward to seeing all fall. I hope that it is all I have been expecting.

3. What was the longest roadtrip you've ever taken and where did you go?

the reason I love to travel are these long road trips that my parents and I have taken my entire life we have always driven everywhere. So when Chris & I got a month off together for a vacation a few years back we went from Seattle through Utah, new mexico, Colorado, Montana, Idaho, and back to Seattle. It was the most beautiful and amazing drive I have ever taken. I can't wait to go again.

4. Do you plan on taking your kids to Disney World?

Not just yes but heck yes!! We were looking into going on other vacations but every time we think about going anywhere else it always leads us back to Disney!! We will always be a Disney family especially now that we will have our babies of our own we will for sure bring them as often as we can. The memories from Disney are priceless.

5. What is something people would surprised to know about you?

Well, people think that I am a big talker, love crowds and love being the center of attention, but that I really get stage fright & I don't like talking to crowds! I can sometimes, not all of the time but many times I am way to shy to be the center of attention. Shhhhh! Don't you tell!

A Conversation with Cuppa Bella…

kingstongirl — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:41:00 +0000

Q) How long have you lived in the area?

A) With exception to a few short years in the TriCities, both Tonya and I have lived in the area our entire lives. I grew up in Kingston in the house my mom still lives in right across the street from Wolfle. Tonya grew up in Poulsbo on Finn Hill in the same house her parents still live in.

Q) How much family history do you have in the area?

A) My family history isn't extensive, in the area compared to many of the storied family names. My aunt and uncle moved out to Bainbridge in the late 50s and my mom moved out here from Pennsylvania in 1967 after nursing school. My dad was in the Navy at the time and moved to the area after he was discharged. At the time my mom moved out, my grandmother was still teaching in Doylestown but she and my grandfather moved out here in the mid-70s after she retired. We've been here ever since. Tonya's family has been in the area since the early 40s.

Q) What is your favorite thing about the area?

A) Other than the natural beauty of the area? Community.
Kingston is a true "small town". You get the sense that folks that live here watch each others backs, they take care of their fellow citizens, they take care of their own town. The volunteers in the Kingston area that come out for Town Cleanups, that put up the flower baskets, that put together the 4th of July are what makes this area so great.

Q) What would you change if you could about the area?

A) The only thing I would like to change is seeing more cooperation and communication between the various organizations in the area so that everyone is working toward the same goal, each with their own set of tasks to get there. We started something like this with Rotary, Kiwanis, Kingston Food Bank, Port Gamble S'klallam Tribe, Kingston Rescue Mission, Sharenet Foodbank and Wolfle for the "Feed the Kids" program this past summer. Sometimes, there's can be too much volunteer effort that it becomes scattered and small, creating a situation where each group is fighting for donations and volunteers. If you can join the numerous small efforts to make our town better with one common visions and goal, a huge difference can be made in a short amount of time and you can eliminate the publics sense of annoyance at solicitation after solicitation for donations. If we could all join together and target one issue at a time and resolve it before moving on to another as a group of volunteers and charities, great things could happen here. And Kingston is the perfect place to do it.

Q) What made you start your own business?

A) Well, we didn't start Cuppa Bella. Cuppa Bella was started by Mark and Karen Scholl in 1998 and the opportunity to purchase the business from them presented itself to us (by accident) last year. Tonya had run her own daycare business out of our home for several years while I was commuting to Seattle to an IT executive job. I had been looking for a way out of my commute for several years as I was losing time with our 4 children that I would never get back. The cards just sort of fell into place last September. I had planned on staying with my commute until February of this year but after ending up in Harborview after being hit on my motorcycle in December and our house burning down in January, it seemed best for me to stop commuting and focusing all of my energy on our business then.

Q) Where would you like to see your business be in 5 years?

A) We already have plans for a second location within the next 12 months. On the 5 year track, we're probably realistically looking at a 3rd location within that time. It's a struggle for us right now since Tonya and I are so focused on the quality and consistency of what we serve that we spend 60-70 hours per week working in our business, I get up at 2am to do all the baking from scratch and Tonya comes in at noon to close up shop at 8pm. We're not sure how additional locations will pan out for us in being able to maintain our high level of standards, but, we're not reinventing the wheel so we'll just have to look at how other successful entrepreneurs have done it.

Worldness Wednesday……

kingstongirl — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:36:00 +0000

SO many things have gone on here is my wordless Wednesday and my wordless is a picture of my parents car when they were hit while a person was texting. So please look at this photo and remind your loved ones and yourself to not TEXT & DRIVE because our family will never be the same.

Tempt my tummy Tuesday

kingstongirl — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:35:00 +0000

I am getting back into doing what I did before I made my blog mostly just reviews and business. I have been told that a lot of my readers miss the daily post so here we are... enjoy!

This is an easy and nice enough, to make for some of those people that you love and just special enough for a Sunday dinner or holiday meal. I Add hot baked rolls, and always do a veggie frozen or fresh. The Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hours, 30 minutes

Ingredients:

1 center-cut pork rib roast, about 3 pounds
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 pounds fingerling potatoes, scrubbed
1 large onion, cut into 6 to 8 wedges
2 tablespoons melted butter
salt and pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

Preparation:

Heat oven to 350°.

Wash the roast and pat dry. Rub roast all over with the Cajun seasoning, dry mustard, thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, half of the minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the roast over medium-high heat in a skillet in remaining olive oil for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned.

Toss potatoes with the remaining minced garlic, onion wedges, and the melted butter. Arrange the potatoes in the baking pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the browned rib roast on the vegetables, bones facing down. Pour the wine or chicken broth in the pan. Roast, uncovered, for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the roast registers about 150° when a meat thermometer is in the thickest part of the meat, not touching fat or bone. If the rib ends begin to brown too much, cover each with a piece of foil. Cut between the ribs into separate chops and serve with the roasted potatoes and onions.
Serves 6

Know me monday.

kingstongirl — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 22:51:00 +0000

I am going to do something fun that we will do each week so you can know Kingstongirl. The fall is filling up and we have some amazing things going on, Blogging is a funny thing, we tell our most intimate thoughts tor the people we don't meet in person as often as we would like to, but these people we feel safer to share our deepest feeling we write things down in anger, in sadness, always emotional and always showing my feelings, we know that we don't know them know them but I want to now who the person is behind all these wonderful stories that they share with us. The connection.......So here is a bit of getting to know me Mondays... Enjoy!

1. The thing that scares me the most is __________?
the thing that scares me the most is that my writing will never bring me the most of what I want to bring. I have so many great dreams that I never truly be able to have my own book on the shelves of the many book stores.... that the books I am working on now with the ideas in my head without putting it from pen to paper.

2. Do you like nuts in your Chocolate Chip cookies?

No, I don't like to eat cookies that have nuts in them. I like most everything sweet but I only like white Chocolate Chips, with macadamia nuts & I like almonds in some of the things that I eat just not Chocolate chips.

3. If you couldn't change the channel, what tv show would drive you from the room?
Nothing could keep me from watching Samantha Brown, She is who I want to be when I grow up! :)

4. Pulp or no pulp in your Orange Juice?No pulp I like it smooth, I can't drink it unless I am trying to get my sugars up when I am about to crash, so sadly I do miss that favorite morning drink. Could they find a sugar free Orange juice? Please?

5. Who do you miss the most?
I miss my sister, she has helped me in so many ways and introduced me to the thought process that I can get though anything that I put my mind to, that I if I have a dream then I can set my mind to it and make it come true with some hard work. She lives a few states away and I don't get to see her nearly enough as I wish I did.

A conversation with Polish and shine cleaning….

kingstongirl — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 03:08:00 +0000

A close family to my husband and over time they have become great friends of mine. I love these girls and they are two girls that will do anything for their friends and every costumer is treated just like one of their friends. Enjoy getting to know Heather & Hayley
owners of Polish & Shine Cleaning!!!

1) How long have you lived in the area?

All of our lives, we were born in Bremerton and raised on Bainbridge. We Have lived in almost every city in Kitsap over the past 20 years.

2) How much family history do you have in the area?

Our Mother was born on Bainbridge in 1938. Our Dad came to Kitsap from FL in the 50's.

3) What is your favorite thing about the area?

The small town feeling, it is hard to go anywhere without seeing someone you know. There is not a lot of hustle and bustle but any service, store, and school are within arms reach. ~Heather

4)What would you change if you could about the area?

The constant additions of "big box stores". I think it makes it very hard for small businesses when they keep adding giant stores that Mom and Pop shops can't compete with. ~Heather

5)What made you start your own business?

Hayley and I are both Mothers, Wives, Etc. Heather is a Navy Wife who's husband is often deployed. She is also the mother to a special needs son and 3 other children. Hayley is married with 2 children and works part time at a vet clinic on Bainbridge. We were really looking for something that would allow us the freedom to work while being able to be available to our families as well.
We also saw a market for affordable house cleaners. Some of the prices out there are just too far out of reach for a lot of people. We wanted to be available to almost everyone regardless to income.

6)Where would you like to see your business be in 5 years?

GROWING! Hahaha. We would like to stay small and still be able to give personal attention to each client. It would be fantastic to be fully booked 5 days a week though.

7)What is the hardest part of having your own business?

So far, it has been trying to find clients and really get our name out there. When you are a tiny business starting from nothing, we just don't have the ability to pay for massive advertising or commercials. That's where we are hoping the "small town, word of mouth, everyone knows everyone", will come into play.

8)Where would you like our town to be in over the next five years?

Where it is now, without too much growth.

9)What is your favorite thing to do in our town?

We love to visit the parks, there are so many! Fay Bainbridge is one of our favorites. Girl's night's out are fun too, we all need a break and getting together with the girls is a great way to unwind.

10)What is your favorite Store in town?

I love consignment stores! I have four kids and a grandbaby on the way so any time I can get a bargain is great. Rock-a-buy is great and so is Fishline's store in downtown Poulsbo AND it supports a great cause! Hayley and I are both avid bargain shoppers.

11)Do you give to any local charities you work with?

We have are just starting out but would LOVE to work with Autism Walks and Autism Awareness. Hayley would say PAWS or the Humane Society as she also works with animals.

12) tell me anything you would love to share about your business.

We are affordable, 100% customer driven, and really do our best to make sure no detail is overlooked. We not only do residential cleaning but also, commercial, move out cleans and event clean-up. We have access to the bases as well. Our website is polishandshinecleaners.yolasite.com. You can request info or ask us questions on the "contact us" page. You can also find us on facebook!!!

Happy Monday Photography & A little bit sassy!!!!

kingstongirl — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:49:00 +0000

This is a conversation between myself and Gretchen of Happy Monday Photography and a little bit sassy.

How long have you lived in the area?
This time? lol My family and I lived here from 2002-2007. We are a Navy family so we moved down to the San Diego area for awhile and returned to this area again last August. Unfortunately we will have to leave the area again next August. We look forward to retiring here in six years.

How much family history do you have in the area?

None in the Kitsap area. I spent most of my childhood in Bellevue.

What is your favorite thing about the area?
I love the “small town” feel but the fact that it is close enough to so many different city type activities.

What would you change if you could about the area?
I take away to stupid Toll on the Narrows Bridge. :)

What made you start your own business?
I felt VERY strongly that I needed to be a stay at home mom. I have attempted many different home based business and was never successful because my heart wasn’t in it. Before my 3rd child, a baby girl, came along, my husband bought me my first “real” camera. I have been interested in Photography since I was a teenager but I fell in love with it when I started taking pictures of my children. My passion for creating images evolved when we were in California and after a year of portfolio building, Happy Monday Photography was born.

Where would you like to see your business be in 5 years?
I would like to be in a beautiful studio filled with the sound of little feet, belly laughs and lots of love. My goal is to have a boutique in the front where I can sell all my crafty stuff. :)

What is the hardest part of having your own business?
Its all up to me. Whether I succeed or fail, its on my shoulders. I love the challenge though, it keeps me on my toes and gives me the opportunity to continue growing artistically.

Where would you like our town to be in over the next five years?
I would love to see Downtown Silverdale become something more than buildings filled salons. It would be so great to have a bustling area filled with a nice variety of businesses, galleries, resteraunts, etc.

What is your favorite thing to do in our town?
Our family LOVES geocaching!!! Never heard of it? Check it out, www.geocaching.com. It is a real life treasure hunt and is such an awesome activity for families to do together.

What is your favorite Store in town?
Goodwill. I LOVE transforming wood furniture into perfect pieces for my house.

Do you give to any local charities you work with?
I make several different products with a Breast Cancer Awareness theme. I donate a minimum of 50% of the profits of those items to the Susan G Komen Foundation.

What is your business motto?
“Leave Boring at the Door”. I am a fun person and I want my clients to have a carefree, relaxed, candid and fun time when we are together.

Tell me anything you would love to share about your business.
I do this because I LOVE it. I love giving people the gift of Heirloom quality images. Lets have some fun and capture the important moments in your life, big and small.

Sometimes you only have each other.

kingstongirl — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:38:00 +0000

A few weeks ago some family drama emerged like a wreaking ball it destroyed some amazing relationships but what it didn't do is destroy my relationship with my husband it made us closer. The time I have been taking away from writing has been so that I could nest in our new home and snuggle closer to my husband.

My hub's works. A lot. I work. A lot.We are about to have two beautiful baby boys born in January, who will fill up a super amount of whatever little time we will have left. Add that to bills that keep showing up every month. A almost 40 year old home that needs to be up dated and made into the home that we will raise those boys and our family in, it never has a day go by that goes with out a creak or complaint and the typical everyday American life.

I realize how much I miss the man that I get to proudly call my husband everyday. The vows of "to love and cherish." that keeps getting drowned down with the "payment due" or the truth of "living day by day and paycheck to paycheck to paycheck. "

So with the ideas of what we want our home to look like especially the yard. "Hub's" and I started to plan the entire landscape DIY projects. We have started this out by a weekend a month to work on it. I don't work outside of the home and don't really feel that once the babies are home and safe if we will be more of my job to work around the house. We will tackle the shed remodel ( I am making it into my get away room and craft area, I think) I was thinking back to all the projects that we have done together in the past. I think back fondly to the project that we did in our back yard in our first home in Kingston.

We did a beautiful patio.

I knew that we were in trouble when it took the whole day to place stakes and string to start the perimeter. I would love to rewind and watch the funny arguments between us. Like any husband and wife the banter back and fourth wouldn't be funny in the moment but looking back it would be funny now. It was almost evening by the time the two of us started the strong willed of the two of us would keep that banter going for hours. Then over dinner and cocktails we discovered that we were going to take a few weeks to get the entire section done. We made trip after trip with a half a dozen gallon buckets along with a few kitty litter boxes filled with dirt to the dump, then back to the house to fill more dirt and then back to the dump.....over and over again we were able to do load after load.

The hum of the road, wind blowing in our hair, sunshine pouring through the window and the heat feeling so wonderful warming our skin for a few seconds. If we were able to close our eyes we would have felt like we were on a mini vacation for a few seconds. By day 7 of our 2 day project we had laughed and enjoyed our time together laughing and joking that we were to be the next HGTV show leaving his real life job to become the landscapers that we have now become.

We had gained so much more then a patio we gained a togetherness that we were so blessed to have been a part of. Him+Me= family. So every so often we walk the property with a notebook & pen and jot down our honey do together list. Allowing us to dream big and plan that mini vacation of staying home and building our relationship and value of our home.

All the busy work….

kingstongirl — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 05:26:00 +0000

I felt it in the air today... Did you? That first sign of fall?

In Western Washington we have had the best two weeks of sunshine all summer. I love it so much!

Until today!

Then I wanted to go shopping for knee high boots & a wool jacket, sweaters and scrafts!

Highschool football games.

Pumpkin patches.

I have so many things to look forward too.....

All the fall hotel reviews.

Stay tuned for the two Hotel review next week when I am back

to my Monday through Friday

Reviewing and writing

Off to pack it is moving day on Thursday!

It has been a while. I am so sorry!!

kingstongirl — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:50:00 +0000

Hey there friends,

I have to start off by saying how very sorry I am about not writing in such a big span of time. So many changes have been happening lately that trying to take anytime to think straight let alone take the much needed time to write.
Summer is always busy but never like this.

We lost our Sophie girl a few weeks ago. I wrote in one of my last posts about how much she meant to us and how badly she was doing. A few days after that post she jumped of the sofa when "hubs" got home from work, it hurt her so so much that she couldn't even walk. So we made the most painful choice we have ever made to put her to sleep. This completely distroyed me and "hubs."

The next day in a fog, my mom and I went to Target, on our way back to the car I tripped over a curb and fell flat on my face, hurting my right foot, couldn't walk, or put any weight on it. A small break is what the Dr. said it could have been.

We are moving in less the 10 days and we are not even half way done un packing. Tomorrow will be a very busy day.

Having some major family drama. The drama has turned me and my life upside down. I feel like we have been handed a bomb and then left to sit and wait until it blows up in all of our faces.

So please forgive me for not writing as often as I should. I feel lost and a little out of sorts. We can only hope that this will pass so fast. I am so done feeling so broken and so out for control.

chrysalis Inn & Spa review……..

kingstongirl — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 03:25:00 +0000

Hub’s & I had the pleasure of spending a wonderful night at this beautiful Inn right on Bellingham Bay. Upon pulling into the Inn you feel a world away with the beautiful fountain that greets you. There was no hassle at check in - parking was easy and the entire staff was friendly. The gift shop right next to check in is full of every little thing you could want or need! I bought a birthday gift and a few cards to send to friends.

The suite was very thoughtfully decorated, extremely comfortable, with a grand twin-sized window seat overlooking the water, while reading my book the view of the bay and the Alaskan State Ferry loaded cars and passengers as they prepared for their Friday night departure from Bellingham bay to Alaska.

Fino wine bar showcases a graciously proportioned dining room with expansive views of Bellingham Bay. From the exhibition kitchen, the master chef will delight your palette with regional culinary treasures and distinctive wines from around the world. The extensive library of wines is available by the taste, glass, or bottle.

Savor a glass of wine by the fireplace, entertain a party in the dining room, or share an intimate dinner for two on the outdoor terrace.

The Chrysalis balances an inspiration from nature with the sophisticated styling and technology that distinguishes our region. We provide our guests an intimate haven in which to rest and restore during both personal and business retreats.

This place has an Expansive view of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. It also has a beautiful Waterfront location, with thirty four beautifully appointed deluxe rooms & nine luxurious suites with a Full service day spa, along with a nice

Wine bar & two different types of Meeting Facilities

With cozy throws and pillows, & the King size bed was so lovely with nice linens, with wonderful pillows and the most comfortable mattress. The deep oversized bathtub set beside the retractable wall, allowed for a peek-a- boo view of the stunning lights of the blood red sunset. To top it off, the plush bathrobes and inroom fireplace made this the ideal room for a romantic. This was a perfect place to re connect.

The hotel thinks of the little details that you might never think of to pack for yourself, like leaving you a few paris of earplugs. You do have some slight noise when the train does steam through on occasion, the placement of the rooms make it absolutely more quiet then you would think of a passing train right under your hotel... Extra things in the room, a nice lounge chair, nice lighting, Complementary wireless internet and a morning newspaper; a very nice flatscreen TV and a great channel selection, with that said, I was very pissy that On Demand was turned off to use but the menu was active so you could see what you could have been watching. Knowing that on demand with comcast is free with the service it should be an option for the people staying here! I would have loved to gotten all caught up on my Reality TV shows!

The mini bar items are normally high priced but the specialty snacks are outrageously priced- can't imagine they sell many of them, which was sad because I always get a sweet tooth in the evening and always try to buy one or two things to try and sample for the sake of the review ( that is at least what I tell the hubs!) Oh & the FREE morning breakfast was nice and fresh with a small variety of hot and cold choices for you to choose from. With a view of the bay that will have your writing home about

Chrysalsis Inn and Spa makes this a nice and short walk from the train station to the hotel, for being about 5 minutes away by friendly taxi, or a easy 20 minute walk on the private trail that leads you straight to the Inn &Spa’s door.

the Amtrak station is in the beautiful downtown area of Fairhaven, with its wonderful book stores, restaurants, and a special toy store is .2 miles by nice walking trail, and Bellingham is an easy, flat two miles the other way on another fabulous walking trail. This is a nice idea for you to come up from Seattle or even Portland. I love it because once you hit the Amtrak seat I’m in Relax mode, anyone that goes on the train trip will feel the same way so do yourself a favor and book your trip on the Amtrak when you come up to stay here.

A boardwalk runs from the hotel down across the water and into a great little park. At the end of the boardwalk is Woods Coffee shop. What a great afternoon stroll along the water all the while hubs was enjoying his latte & I a double scoop of Ice Cream.... The Dinner options were abundant and within walking distance as well. We hit the book store and got the new children's book, "Go to F*uck to Sleep" laughing the entire time, we also found a wonderful children's store and found my diaper bag!! There are trails that lead from the hotel into Fairhaven. What a cute town that we feel madly in love with.

Sadly we didn't have time to enjoy the Spa, but all the guests that stay here are able to use the shower and steam rooms.

The Special packages for the Hotel that we will use this summer when we return would have to be The Relax and enjoy your stay in a deluxe side view room with fireplace, walk-in slate shower, 2 person soaking tub, window seat, down comforters and spa amenities.

Or maybe the Kayak Adventure Package:

“This 3 hour paddle is one of the most scenic and varied available in the Bellingham area. We start out at the Wildcat Cove Boat Launch in Larrabee State Park. We travel north from there along impressively scalloped sandstone cliffs. We often see river otters, seals, cormorants, eagles, loons and oyster catchers along this relatively pristine shoreline. Our destination is Chuckanut (Dot) Island in beautiful Chuckanut Bay. This island is an archaeological site owned by the Nature Conservancy and well known for its visible shell miden (refuse from 10,000 years of native Salish people’s use). We can stretch our legs on its beaches and trails, before reloading our boats for the trip back to Wildcat Cove. If time and weather permit, it is also possible to visit petrified palm tree fossils and a bird sanctuary. A lot to see in a relatively short paddle!”

The Wine package for all you wine lovers like Hubs and I.

Tour Whatcom County's Wineries and stay at The Chrysalis Inn.

Discover Whatcom County's boutique wineries with Whatcom Wine Tours. Meet the wine makers, enjoy great wines and experience the beauty Whatcom County has to offer. Each tour includes lunch, a souvenir wine glass and a night at The Chrysalis Inn.

* Side View Deluxe Room $304* Full View Deluxe Room $314* Luxury King Suite $384* Luxury Corner Suite $404

This Package is a great idea for the Girls weekend. When I do my Shopping weekend with the girls this fall this is the place and package I will be using!

Our in-room party includes:

* One night stay in a Luxury Room* Manicure or Pedicure* Chair Massage* Champagne and Chocolates* Party Food* Spa Gift

You can also do a wedding package and a great honeymoon here would be amazing. I will come back here when I do my trips up to Bellingham. My sweet sister in law lives up here so it is always a plus when I can find a place to stay and enjoy seeing the family & with the rates so low this is a top on my list.

I am so looking forward to going back there! I hope that you take the time to go up here it is so worth the trip.

Tell them Kingstongirl sent ya!

Thank you to photobucket & the chrysalis inn & spa

chrysalis Inn & Spa review……..

kingstongirl — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 03:25:00 +0000

Savor a glass of wine by the fireplace, entertain a party in the dining room, or share an intimate dinner for two on the outdoor terrace.

Wine bar & two different types of Meeting Facilities

Sadly we didn't have time to enjoy the Spa, but all the guests that stay here are able to use the shower and steam rooms.

Or maybe the Kayak Adventure Package:

The Wine package for all you wine lovers like Hubs and I.

Tour Whatcom County's Wineries and stay at The Chrysalis Inn.

* Side View Deluxe Room $304* Full View Deluxe Room $314* Luxury King Suite $384* Luxury Corner Suite $404

This Package is a great idea for the Girls weekend. When I do my Shopping weekend with the girls this fall this is the place and package I will be using!

Our in-room party includes:

* One night stay in a Luxury Room* Manicure or Pedicure* Chair Massage* Champagne and Chocolates* Party Food* Spa Gift

I am so looking forward to going back there! I hope that you take the time to go up here it is so worth the trip.

Tell them Kingstongirl sent ya!

Thank you to photobucket & the chrysalis inn & spa

A little lost…….

kingstongirl — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 07:03:00 +0000

Things have been a little crazy lately.

I want to first start by saying how sorry I am that I haven't been writing as much as I should.

Things have been so busy around here.

The past few weeks have gone by again so fast.

We are faced with loosing one of our best friends.

Our 10 year old Shitzu puppy.

Sophie aka Margret Goodrich

We got Sophie on our 1st V-day.

We wanted to find a pet that we would have

be in every sense of the word

"Our baby Girl"

We looked for her and she was brought to us,

we rescued her from a lady that couldn't stand her.

( that was in the ad)

So we had her and she had our hearts from day one.

In our life we have been able to do so much with Sophie...

Her favorite thing to do is go on car rides,

especially when they end up

at the beach.

With Sophie we have gone on.....

Camping trips,

Down the Oregon Coast..

To Colorado & Back.

To the Drive-in

When I have been sick she has sat with me,

making me feel so much better, Every time.

Taking long naps with me.

All our Friends and Family have fallen in love

with her like we did.

She has a Degenerative Disc Disease,

she has been sick off and on the entire time we have had

her.

In the past she has been hurting so bad that when we

take her to the vet, they give her some med's and shots.

This time it is the worst I have ever seen her.

We take her to the vet.

They are going to guide us in the choice to

give her relief or put her to sleep.

Either thing is completely heartbreaking........

She is my baby, She is my heart,

My heart and my life will never be the same

without her.

Once a fur baby grabs your heart they

own it forever.

I love you Sophie.

A little lost…….

kingstongirl — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 07:03:00 +0000

Things have been a little crazy lately.

I want to first start by saying how sorry I am that I haven't been writing as much as I should.

Things have been so busy around here.

The past few weeks have gone by again so fast.

We are faced with loosing one of our best friends.

Our 10 year old Shitzu puppy.

Sophie aka Margret Goodrich

We got Sophie on our 1st V-day.

We wanted to find a pet that we would have

be in every sense of the word

"Our baby Girl"

We looked for her and she was brought to us,

we rescued her from a lady that couldn't stand her.

( that was in the ad)

So we had her and she had our hearts from day one.

In our life we have been able to do so much with Sophie...

Her favorite thing to do is go on car rides,

especially when they end up

at the beach.

With Sophie we have gone on.....

Camping trips,

Down the Oregon Coast..

To Colorado & Back.

To the Drive-in

When I have been sick she has sat with me,

making me feel so much better, Every time.

Taking long naps with me.

All our Friends and Family have fallen in love

with her like we did.

She has a Degenerative Disc Disease,

she has been sick off and on the entire time we have had

her.

In the past she has been hurting so bad that when we

take her to the vet, they give her some med's and shots.

This time it is the worst I have ever seen her.

We take her to the vet.

They are going to guide us in the choice to

give her relief or put her to sleep.

Either thing is completely heartbreaking........

She is my baby, She is my heart,

My heart and my life will never be the same

without her.

Once a fur baby grabs your heart they

own it forever.

I love you Sophie.

A Conversation with Renee Brofsky

kingstongirl — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 20:35:00 +0000

This Conversation is between Renee Brofsky

Q) How much family history do you have in the area?
A) No family history here, but my parents did move here when we became pregnant.
Q) What is your favorite thing about the area?
A) My favorite thing about the area is the water! The views of the mountains, the water, and the lush greenery is incredible!

Q) What would you change if you could about the area?
A) if I could change one thing, it would be the weather. I get tired of wearing fleece and smart wool socks year round!

Q)What made you start your own business?
A)I started my Stella & Dot business in 2010 when my husbands work took a down turn with the economy. With three kids to support, we needed a little extra help. Since I love jewelry and meeting all kinds of women, Stella &Dot seemed like the perfect fit. But besides earning extra income, it has been an amazing opportunity for me to boost my confidence and have another purpose outside our family. Plus, it is so much fun!
Q)Where would you like to see your business be in 5 years?
A)I plan on doing Stella & Dot as long as I can. I have a small team right now and plan on it continuing to grow!

Q) What is the hardest part of having your own business?
A)The hardest part of having my own business is juggling office hours and family. It can be challenging not jumping on a call or the computer when the kids are around!

Q) Where would you like our town to be in over the next five years?
A) I love seeing our area grow. There are always fabulous new businesses and shops going up; along with new people.
Q) What is your favorite thing to do in our town?
A) There are so many great things to do in this area. My favorite thing is camping in our travel trailer with the family. There are so many gorgeous and fun places to explore! I also love to go treasure hunting at Goodwill. I always find great stuff!

Q) What is your favorite Store in town?
A) It's hard to pick one favorite store in the area…I love Trader Joe's, Goodwill, the Bakery in Old Town Silverdale, Rumplenewskins and Indigo Plum in Poulsbo and Lilies and Eagle Harbor books on Bainbridge Island.

Q) Do you give to any local charities you work with?
A) I do work with the Helpline House on Bainbridge Island. I am a part of the birthday party program; making custom cakes for kids to make their birthday wishes come true!

Q) What is your business motto?
A) My business motto is this: "No great thing is created suddenly. There must be time. Give your best and always be kind."

Q) tell me anything you would love to share about your business.
A) Stella & Dot is a newer jewelry company created by two women and named after their grandmothers; Stella and Dot. As her senior thesis at Stanford, Jessica Herrin created the weddingchannel.com and then sold it for millions. She loved jewelry and teamed up with Blythe Harris, who had previously designed for companies like Banana Republic and DeBeers, to create a direct-selling company with a modern twist. The boutique-style jewelry is set up in home trunk shows with no sales presentation, shipped directly to the customer 3-4 days after ordering, and offers generous hostess incentives (most end up with over $200 in free jewelry), and great customer service. Stella & Dot is regularly seen in InStyle, O Magazine, Marie Claire and Vogue and has been spotted on celebrities such as Penelope Cruz, Debra Messing, Rachel Ray, and Christina Hendricks. Stella & Dot has also raised over two-hundred thousand dollars from the sales of the foundation bracelets to three charities: ACCION USA, build On, and girls, inc. I feel so lucky to be a part of this amazing team!

Make sure that you tell Renee that Kingstongirl sent you to here. We will be working on a giveaway in September. Check out her webpage at the Stella and dot link in the sponsor section of this blog.

A Conversation with Renee Brofsky

kingstongirl — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 20:35:00 +0000

This Conversation is between Renee Brofsky

Q) How much family history do you have in the area?
A) No family history here, but my parents did move here when we became pregnant.
Q) What is your favorite thing about the area?
A) My favorite thing about the area is the water! The views of the mountains, the water, and the lush greenery is incredible!

Q) What would you change if you could about the area?
A) if I could change one thing, it would be the weather. I get tired of wearing fleece and smart wool socks year round!

Q)What made you start your own business?
A)I started my Stella & Dot business in 2010 when my husbands work took a down turn with the economy. With three kids to support, we needed a little extra help. Since I love jewelry and meeting all kinds of women, Stella &Dot seemed like the perfect fit. But besides earning extra income, it has been an amazing opportunity for me to boost my confidence and have another purpose outside our family. Plus, it is so much fun!
Q)Where would you like to see your business be in 5 years?
A)I plan on doing Stella & Dot as long as I can. I have a small team right now and plan on it continuing to grow!

Q) What is the hardest part of having your own business?
A)The hardest part of having my own business is juggling office hours and family. It can be challenging not jumping on a call or the computer when the kids are around!

Q) Where would you like our town to be in over the next five years?
A) I love seeing our area grow. There are always fabulous new businesses and shops going up; along with new people.
Q) What is your favorite thing to do in our town?
A) There are so many great things to do in this area. My favorite thing is camping in our travel trailer with the family. There are so many gorgeous and fun places to explore! I also love to go treasure hunting at Goodwill. I always find great stuff!

Q) What is your favorite Store in town?
A) It's hard to pick one favorite store in the area…I love Trader Joe's, Goodwill, the Bakery in Old Town Silverdale, Rumplenewskins and Indigo Plum in Poulsbo and Lilies and Eagle Harbor books on Bainbridge Island.

Q) Do you give to any local charities you work with?
A) I do work with the Helpline House on Bainbridge Island. I am a part of the birthday party program; making custom cakes for kids to make their birthday wishes come true!

Q) What is your business motto?
A) My business motto is this: "No great thing is created suddenly. There must be time. Give your best and always be kind."

Q) tell me anything you would love to share about your business.
A) Stella & Dot is a newer jewelry company created by two women and named after their grandmothers; Stella and Dot. As her senior thesis at Stanford, Jessica Herrin created the weddingchannel.com and then sold it for millions. She loved jewelry and teamed up with Blythe Harris, who had previously designed for companies like Banana Republic and DeBeers, to create a direct-selling company with a modern twist. The boutique-style jewelry is set up in home trunk shows with no sales presentation, shipped directly to the customer 3-4 days after ordering, and offers generous hostess incentives (most end up with over $200 in free jewelry), and great customer service. Stella & Dot is regularly seen in InStyle, O Magazine, Marie Claire and Vogue and has been spotted on celebrities such as Penelope Cruz, Debra Messing, Rachel Ray, and Christina Hendricks. Stella & Dot has also raised over two-hundred thousand dollars from the sales of the foundation bracelets to three charities: ACCION USA, build On, and girls, inc. I feel so lucky to be a part of this amazing team!

Make sure that you tell Renee that Kingstongirl sent you to here. We will be working on a giveaway in September. Check out her webpage at the Stella and dot link in the sponsor section of this blog.

A wonderful time at the Tolovana.

kingstongirl — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 02:39:00 +0000

I have to say that I feel like I am coming home when I make that last turn from Seaside to Cannon Beach, then out for the right I see them the Haystack rocks, as if they are standing guard and protecting the beach. Welcoming me in their own way home.

Whenever I get asked to come back here I just jump to the chance. One day I hope I will be able to call this place home or at least have a vacation house to spend long summer days playing on the beach, winter nights around a crackling fire with a nice glass of wine and a cozy chair reading a great book as I watch a wonderful winter storm filled with pounding rain, lightning and thunder with the waves crashing hard against the sand.

This time we would be staying at Tolovana Inn, I was so excited to come here. For a year now I have wanted to work on getting some time to spend here. This time I was able to bring my Mom. We always have a great time together, and for all the things she has done for me it makes me feel good to bring her to be my Thelma to my Lousie! Bringing her to Cannon Beach is even more special the two of us have been coming down here for girls weekends for years.

From the time we pulled into the Tolovana and after we checked in and having a wonderful experience with the front desk staff, they were wonderful with answering questions that I had with where to eat, where to play and what is a not miss for new things going on in Cannon Beach.

The ladies at the front desk told us that Tolovana Inn is a Cannon Beach lodging tradition! That this is one of the bucket list places for you to check out and stay at in Cannon Beach. We stayed in an ocean front spacious suites it gave us plenty of room to enjoy.

The amazing view from our private balcony allowed us to truly sit back and relax by the gas fireplace. Our room had an extra room that when we stay in the next time comes with a extra hotel room that is connected.

Mom and I sat and enjoyed our 360 degree view of the ocean from the entire hotel room. Our room had a full living room sofa sleeper and two lovely leather chairs, with the lovely photography of the ocean on the yellow walls. Wonderful blinds, throw pillows and lighting. a flat screen TV and the gas fireplace, was the room that we spent most of our time in with the front screen door open just a crack to listen to the waves from the balcony. the views are spectacular!

The Kitchen (yes ladies and Gents there is a full size Kitchen!!!)! Dishwasher, oven, mircowave, fridge, counter space, all the extras for you to feel like you were home away from home. All the way down to the salt and pepper shakers and the toaster!! There is a large dinning room table and so much space for your family. Mom and I enjoyed bringing our own food to cook and make for breakfast and our dinners. We loved all the comforts of home.

Another bonus is the family style table in the dinning area of the condo,
it was a great extra to this condo. Every single detail they thought of to make a family feel right at home. It is a nice way to enjoy a family meal, keeping the cost down of eating out and enjoying your view of the Haystack rocks.

The full bath was spacious, and had a tub, the only thing that would have been better is if the tub would have been a soaking tub, although most people don’t mind it if they have one or not it is truly one of my favorite things to have in a hotel room. They even fold the towels like you are on a cruise ship!!! Totally cute!

This condo had a bedroom, a fold out hide a bed. The Room that has a queen size bed with a TV & DVD player, two side tables and a dresser. All of these added items were a bonus to a nice room. Then we found out that another room can be unlocked and you can have the entire side to share with your family. A two bedroom, two bath, with a full size fold out couch.

While you are there do enjoy the indoor sea water pool, spa and sauna. You don't even have to miss your daily workout in their onsite fitness center. Don’t want to work out? You can enjoy the short and easy walk to the beach access to stroll along miles of the perfectly beautiful Oregon coast. Wait till the tide goes out and at the base of the haystack rock where you can explore the many tide pools While we sat on the beach making smofly a kite. Play a round of golf at a nearby course or visit the unique restaurants, galleries and shops of Cannon Beach.

This has to be the best place for me on the Oregon coast, experience the pure luxury of Tolovana Inn, a favorite among Cannon Beach lovers. All the treasures the community of Cannon Beach offers is in a nutshell you don't have to look any further to find the complete package at Tolovana. We loved our stay so much that we stayed two nights, paying for the second night. This is the first time I have ever done this.

This truly was one of the best times I have had with my Mom and now that we are starting a family of our own, going here with my parents and the kids will be something we will look forward to doing our summer trip to the beach here as a family in this condo!!

A wonderful time at the Tolovana.

kingstongirl — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 02:39:00 +0000

Welcomed back to the Inn at the four winds!

kingstongirl — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 05:34:00 +0000

I was asked to come back to the beautiful Inn at the Four Winds, "Hub's" and I were here last fall and now my mama and I were back! The Inn is located just a short walk of only 9 blocks from downtown Seaside, the Prom escorts you to the center of the action.

Our only agenda was to relax and enjoy the landscape that Seaside has for you to watch.. The sunshine came out for our trip and the water looked like sparkles that were dancing on the water, for me and my mom the best way to pass the time was on our very own and private balcony, being able to spend time with my mom and enjoying the sea glass colors of the ocean and watching the sun light sparkle and dance on the waves, along with a nice glass of wine and a beautiful sunset, it was a perfect time for our girls weekend. You do not even need to leave your room, with a small kitchenette, all your needs can be met right there, with onsite warm cookies, coffee, popcorn and a wonderful movie selection why would you need to leave, plus the front desk helps you find places that are delivered to your hotel room door!

The gas fireplace was going, movie playing on the TV, a wonderful bubble bath, mom and I were able to change our nail polish, catch up on girl talk, laugh, cry and do all the fun things that we are able to enjoy for a girls weekend. I love that we can have a nice and relaxing weekend it was a nice to just de- stress.

I'm already planning on going back to the Inn for a girlfriends weekend, I can not wait to share this amazing place with all of them. This is a place to come rest and relax to take some time just for you. Remember to make sure that you do not smoke or have pets with you. This is a property that you can't do either of these things and in a way this is a blessing because you don't have to think of anything else besides yourself or the smoke of someone that is staying under you creeping up thru the floor. This way you can really smell the sea air.

This is a perfect place to enjoy some much needed family time as well. Tell them at the Inn at the four winds that Kingstongirl sent you! Also they have different properties for you to check out and rent as well. So you can bring the entire family if you want to!

Welcomed back to the Inn at the four winds!

kingstongirl — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 05:34:00 +0000

Looking forward to many things this summer!!

kingstongirl — Sat, 28 May 2011 19:54:00 +0000

Happy Memorial day weekend!!!

Wow! Things are going so very fast this year. I know that this is normal but crap! I'm doing so many reviews for hotels and Inn's. Making connections. Everyday it becomes clearer what I need to do, the direction that Kingstongirl is needing to go. I need to settle into on direction.

If you don't read this blog very often, in my personal life we are expecting twins!! They are due in January. ( Click on the waiting for baby G link on top if you would like to read more about this journey)

So with that coming I have to be complete in the direction of where I am going. I know that I want to continue to travel and do get together for Girls nights, movie nights, ribbon cuttings and just anything that will help get the people out that need help getting to know each other and others businesses.

What are you looking forward to for summer??? This is the weekend I feel like Summer has began. It goes quick so make sure you take the time to sit and soak it in. Here are a few things I am looking forward too this summer.

$ The fourth of July!

We start to celebrate it on the 3rd with the fireworks down town Poulsbo. We have a hidden spot to watch it and they are always amazing! The next day we get up & go to down town Kingston, grab a spot and watch the parade! It is something I have done my entire life. I have missed a few and it really doesn't seem like the 4th of July without it. After that a family BBQ & that night back to Kingston to watch the fireworks there! I might try to do a BBQ here that day! <

My birthday!!!!

I will be celebrating my birthday on July 6th!

I love my birthday!

with the "Hubs" he has me celebrate for an entire week!

It is always so much fun & I'm looking forward to it.

hoping that we can do something

really special this year!

Going on

lovely bike rides all summer long!

#Hint hint honey I need a bike for my birthday!#

#Go to the Drive-in#

Shop at the local farmers markets

Spending many hours lazy in bed!

Going Camping with the "Hub's"

filling my house with beautiful summer flowers!

Picnics on hot summer nights with the
"Hubs" Stealing kisses

I will be writing my books!

praying I get done by the end of September!

I will let my inner child Play!

I will read a book a week!!!

I'm a super slow reader

but will do what I can to do this goal!

I will journal and document this summer.

Spend a day at the local fair!

I will enjoy the beautiful blue skies!

Spending lots of Long warm days at the Beach!!

; Building sand castles!

Maybe some more kisses!!

Blow bubbles!

End a hot summer night

Sleeping under the star filled sky!

Travel as much as I can!

Looking forward to many things this summer!!

kingstongirl — Sat, 28 May 2011 19:54:00 +0000

Happy Memorial day weekend!!!

$ The fourth of July!

My birthday!!!!

I will be celebrating my birthday on July 6th!

I love my birthday!

with the "Hubs" he has me celebrate for an entire week!

It is always so much fun & I'm looking forward to it.

hoping that we can do something

really special this year!

Going on

lovely bike rides all summer long!

#Hint hint honey I need a bike for my birthday!#

#Go to the Drive-in#

Shop at the local farmers markets

Spending many hours lazy in bed!

Going Camping with the "Hub's"

filling my house with beautiful summer flowers!

Picnics on hot summer nights with the
"Hubs" Stealing kisses

I will be writing my books!

praying I get done by the end of September!

I will let my inner child Play!

I will read a book a week!!!

I'm a super slow reader

but will do what I can to do this goal!

I will journal and document this summer.

Spend a day at the local fair!

I will enjoy the beautiful blue skies!

Spending lots of Long warm days at the Beach!!

; Building sand castles!

Maybe some more kisses!!

Blow bubbles!

End a hot summer night

Sleeping under the star filled sky!

Travel as much as I can!

Fairfield Inn & suites review.

kingstongirl — Thu, 26 May 2011 23:58:00 +0000

We were able to go to another hotel in the sunny and beautiful city of Yakamia. This time staying at the Farifield Inn & Suites, a Marriott property. I have wanted to get into the marriott loop and start doing reviews for this company & this was the first step to that relationship.

The Hotel has everything that you can think of. They didn't leave anything out that you might just want or need.

They offer rooms at a quality value for both corporate and leisure travelers, a wonderful and Free yummy continental breakfast, indoor mineral pool and spa that is perfect for you to enjoy as you end a busy day of rodeos, the fair, wine tastings, extended time out enjoying that hot Yakamia sunshine.

Our room was very nice and I was really surprised when I got to the room and the three of us sisters felt right at home with plenty of room to spread out, Spacious guest rooms with a well-lit work desk, two phones and data ports, also offering FREE cable TV with HBO, an in-room hair dryer, iron and ironing board along with a coffee maker, mini fridge & a bath tub to soak in.

We had a King size bed in our room with a TV in the bed area along with a bed, coffee table, desk & a desk chair that is really comfortable. The sofa was a fold out & was comfortable, but the one thing that I couldn't get out of my head all night was that there was a big stain on the mattress. That is for sure something that didn't let me sleep to soundly. Other then that the room was very cozy and comfortable.

The staff went above and beyond, the manager was so sweet and even though this was a review she could have turned me away but instead on a full house and only one room left she put us up in her hotel. There were things that could be updated and talked about that needs to be changed a bit into.

It must be hard to be a little older of a hotel when a new shiny one comes in right next door. This hotel is like an old friend that you might forget along the way and wish that you hadn't forgotten. The friend that you remember fondly. With any Marriott property and this one is the same, they treat you like that old friend that you have been.

I know when I think back to this trip I will think of staying here and I will remember the fun time I had with my sisters and best friend. I will remember that when I make my reservations for my next visit there to spend time with the little sister that move over there a little further then we would have wanted her to be.

The next time we enjoy ourselves with a weekend away there we will do the farmers market, the county fair, the movies, more wine tastings or just some fun hanging out in the warm sunshine!!!

Fairfield Inn & suites review.

kingstongirl — Thu, 26 May 2011 23:58:00 +0000

The Hotel has everything that you can think of. They didn't leave anything out that you might just want or need.

The next time we enjoy ourselves with a weekend away there we will do the farmers market, the county fair, the movies, more wine tastings or just some fun hanging out in the warm sunshine!!!

The Ledgewood Hotel in Yakima review!!

kingstongirl — Fri, 20 May 2011 02:56:00 +0000

Last weekend we went to the Yakamia valley, Visiting our little sister Allie, she is a school teacher and the girls and I were excited to go. What more could a girls weekend need besides each other some wine tasting and a hotel that made us feel right at home. The drive over was beautiful, it had been a few years sense the last time that I went over the pass. Our first stop was at the North Bend outlets. We found a ton of things we wanted to buy but we were good and saved our money but we will be going back sometime soon!

We then went to Allies apartment, grabbed her and then headed out to dinner. We ate the most amazing burgers & fries at this hole in the wall burger joint. The prices over in Yakamia were amazing. We looked around the mall and did a little shopping, after we were done we headed to the hotel for the night......

The Ledgestone was beautiful! It was jam packed with kids and their sports teams. When we got there we checked in with their ever so friendly front desk staff was so helpful, they even helped us find our way to them when the GPS was having a hard time. Ledgestone Hotel offer unique contemporary feeling to their suites. It truly reflects their commitment to offer spacious suites with “Essence of Home” All the amenities go above and beyond expectation at a amazing reasonable rate. Making their goal of making sensible ways to reduce the travel costs for every single one of their guests. They want you to feel like you could easily prepare meals in your guest room kitchen or use the complimentary laundry equipment to get all that vacation clothes clean.

Our room had everything we needed. We kept telling Kerry that this is what she needed for her first apartment! It had a two person kitchen table, fridge, oven, microwave oven, coffee maker, cook top stove, sink, all the cups,plates and silverware, there was even a DISHWASHER!!!! The living area had a couch, flatscreen TV, Coffee table, nice lamps and a really comfortable chair. The couch is a fold out so that you can have an extra pull out in case your kids or in our case the Mom comes! The guest room feels more like a small home than a standard hotel room, with features you would see in a house, apartment or condominium, larger than typical hotel rooms, We kept telling our younger sister Kerry that this would be the perfect first time apartment or condo for her.

Each room comes with these beautiful details, that are so wonderful that the hotel owners thought of for each of us guests.

Luxury bed package featuring deluxe linens and a cozy synthetic down blanket
Well-lit work desk
Flat-screen TVs in both the living room and bedroom
MP3-compatible alarm clock radio
Spacious closet with a convenient clothes basket
Iron and board
Hair dryer
Vanity mirror with 3x magnification

The Bathroom had a wonderful tub, a nice vanity with their own hairdryer and vanity mirror. It shows you how much thought really went into their comfort for all their guest here. The wonderful line that they used for the shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, soap, each Tarocco products feature olive oil with extracts of Sicillian Red (Blood) Oranges, whuch are rich in Vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants. The smell of these products sent me instantly on a mini vacation.

The lobby had a coffee area, a computer work station for all the guests to enjoy,a vending room, and even a workout room. It was so nice, it would be just what I would be looking for as a great place to hang my hat on a long road trip. Perfect to climb out of the family car, strech out and enjoy some space.

With perks like these things you will question why you would think about staying anywhere else when visiting.

Alaska Air Miles with every stay
Wireless Internet access throughout the hotel
Weekly housekeeping services
Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, two-burner ceramic cook top, toaster, coffee maker, dishwasher and dining table

Sleep easier when you are able to know that this hotel’s professional night security personnel adds an additional sense of well being while away from home. The only thing that made me not happy about this entire stay was the thought that if I want to stay at another property I would have to go to Alaska to do so, meaning that I know where I will stay when I go there! I hope that I will find out that soon they will be going all over the United States so I can stay at a home away from home with them, they stick to their motto. Making sure that your as comfortable as you would be at your own home and where you are welcome to feel a little like family.

We can not wait to come back and stay here the next time we come to visit our little sister.

The next time you are in town you should stay here as well.

The Ledgewood Hotel in Yakima review!!

kingstongirl — Fri, 20 May 2011 02:56:00 +0000

Luxury bed package featuring deluxe linens and a cozy synthetic down blanket
Well-lit work desk
Flat-screen TVs in both the living room and bedroom
MP3-compatible alarm clock radio
Spacious closet with a convenient clothes basket
Iron and board
Hair dryer
Vanity mirror with 3x magnification

With perks like these things you will question why you would think about staying anywhere else when visiting.

Alaska Air Miles with every stay
Wireless Internet access throughout the hotel
Weekly housekeeping services
Fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, two-burner ceramic cook top, toaster, coffee maker, dishwasher and dining table

We can not wait to come back and stay here the next time we come to visit our little sister.

The next time you are in town you should stay here as well.

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

kingstongirl — Thu, 12 May 2011 19:28:00 +0000

Here is a fun craft project. I had to borrow the pictures because I can not find my camera :( So enjoy from the blog hop today :)

using heavy card stock.

The skill in these albums is co-ordination, making sure the album blends together in theme and colors. This is easy to do by matching shades of colors together and sticking to a strict theme. Alternatively you can pick up a Scrapbook themed kit from your supply store and use the ready selected designs, stickers and embellishments making co-ordination very easy.

To start with you need to paint your album. If you are adding background paper you only need to paint the edges, if you are leaving it wood style you can try different techniques such as crackling. Crackle: To crackle a section of your album you will need to apply a thick coat of crackle medium to the plain wood and allow it to set as per the instructions on the Crackle medium bottle. Then go over the crackle with your pink paint. Work quickly and try not to overlap your brush strokes as this covers the crackle design. You will see it begin to crackle straight away.

Once it has dried your ready to continue with your album. Place your background paper onto the other board pieces mixing and matching your papers and layout designs.

Then using the supplies you have decorate your album, usually "less is more" is a crafters motto, but with this album it's almost "The more the merrier" when it comes to embellishing.

Once you are happy with your layouts bind your album together using wire rings or large curtain rings. Just thread them through the pre-drilled album holes.

Decorate the rings with knotted ribbons, cord and lace for a truly shabby rustic look.

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

kingstongirl — Thu, 12 May 2011 19:21:00 +0000

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

kingstongirl — Thu, 12 May 2011 19:21:00 +0000

KMCT presents OKLAHOMA!

kingstongirl — Thu, 12 May 2011 03:58:00 +0000

I have very fond memories of this play Oklahoma, when I was little I would watch it laying on the couch with my mom. I knew every word to every song. I love the feel of Cowboys and cowgirls. Then in Highschool I was considered a big dork that I paid attention from start to finish the entire time to this musical lip singing to all of the words. I could quote the lines from the movie.

Haven't any idea what this is about? Here is what you need to know to get ya' all up to speed.

Oklahoma! takes place in western territory in the early 1900s when cattlemen and farmers were fighting over fences and water rights. In the middle of that controversy are two more rivalries.

Their simple tale of cowhands and farmers finding love and community in the Oklahoma territory caught the imagination and patriotic passion of wartime America. Laurey, a spunky girl who runs her aunt's farm, is courted by two very different young men: Curly, an brash cowhand, and Jud, a surly, pathological farmhand. Her journey to find the man of her dreams and the satisfaction of settling down with the right one (it's Curly, if you hadn't guessed) underscores the journey of the territory toward progress, community, and statehood.

Oklahoma! was the first collaboration between Rodgers and Hammerstein. It was the first musical to tell a story with music, dance and lyrics, The show forever changed the form of musical theatre. Oklahoma ! broke all box office records when it opened in 1943. It won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1944 and was the longest running musical at that time, holding the record for 15 years.

Once again KMCT theater doesn't disappoint! We were able to see Cast B's performance & boy oh boy these kids have talent. The first scene was Curly that was played by William Teller & Laurey Williams played by the Super cute Sophia Parkhurst. When they did their duet to "Oh what a beautiful morning" it was a great home run with their voices to start the show off right!

The show stoppers continued all through out the production & we were able to enjoy these wonderful kids talents and voices, that are nothing short of seeing their name in lights! There was signing, dancing, even the Dream Ballet part with the inMotion Dancers, they did an amazing job and truly set this play way above the level of a children's theater!

It was a delight to listen to the voice of Samantha Johnson. Her acting and sing and cute acting that she did as funny girl Ado Anne Carnes, the banter back and forth with her and Caleb Adams who played the Handsome and outstanding Cowboy Will Parker.

Aunt Eller Murphy played by Laurne Wolbaum was such a good old lady! With the voice and make-up that was done she truly looked old I forgot that she was such a young actor. My favorite part was when she was interacting with the sales man. Then there was Thelma and her laugh Oh boy! ;

At the end Oklahoma became a state and the Cowboys all become friends! & Laurey and Curly lived life happily ever after! I'm very excited that I got the chance to see another KCMT production... You will enjoy the last part of the play when the Chorus rings out in song to Oklahoma! The ending was so fun and all the dancing and singing, the smiles and looks on all the young actors and actresses had on their proud faces was so much fun!

Of course the best part in every production is the cutest and youngest little boy who's a staple in most of the KCMT productions as a bug in a rug & he is the one that put the frog in the snake charmers bag, this is one thing that KCMT allows their kids to be.... kids, letting them play and talk in the background makes it seem so much more alive. We love you Dale! :)

This time I had a drawing for the second ticket for someone to go with me from Facebook on my Kingstongirl fans page and my friend Genevieve Morehead was able to go with me along with her cute-ie patootie 3 month old Quinn. He was an angel and I was lucky enough to be able to have the chance to hold him for alittle while during the production.

Along with Quinn and Genevieve was my friend April & Her little girl. It is always so much fun with a big group but this was perfect for a fun evening on mothers day.

Once again I want to thank Lori Durham & the KCMT for allowing me to be asked to review this......#

Here are the dates for the shows they have left!!

Friday May 13th at 7pm
Saturday May 14th at 2pm and 7pm
Sunday May 15th at 5pm

Blog hops! :)

kingstongirl — Wed, 11 May 2011 06:01:00 +0000

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do!

WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP

Happy Hump Day! I am so excited - my daughter is turning 1 on Friday! I am in serious need for some hoppin' (and escaping from birthday details) so I hope you join in! What better way to get over the midweek hump then to kick off your heels and do a little blog hopping!

This week we have our Guest Hostess- Elaina from A Time Out For Mommy. She is a fellow mommy blogger with some great stuff. If you didn't visit her last week, be sure to stop on over and say hello!

Blog Hop Rules: This is a low key hop. After all...it is Welcome Wednesday, here to get the inspirational juices flowing and find other blogs we can stalk! Put those feet up, relax, and join the bloggy fun. There are a few rules though:

1. Follow the hostesses, Haute Mom! Be sure to leave a comment so that I can follow you back.

2. Follow our guest hostess A Time Out For Mommy.

3. Link up your blog for all of us to love.

4. Make an attempt to check out at least two new blogs. Don't know where to start? How about the two blogs above you? If you love the blog, become a follower and leave them a comment letting them know.

So link up! You don't have to post about the hop...but you know how we ladies work, the more the merrier. Go to the links above and join in!!

Blog hops! :)

kingstongirl — Wed, 11 May 2011 06:01:00 +0000

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do!

WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP

My First V-log with The Maxwell Hotel in Seattle.

kingstongirl — Tue, 10 May 2011 02:36:00 +0000

IIt

My First V-log with The Maxwell Hotel in Seattle.

kingstongirl — Tue, 10 May 2011 02:36:00 +0000

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Kingston Girl

Meet me Monday!!!!!

Feature Friday….. My good friend….. from Mac Kids..

Thrifty Thursday….. Laundry for a year for $20.00????

Wordless Wednesday……

Smokey Veggie soup. Tempt my Tummy Tuesday..

Meet me Monday…

Meet me Monday..

Weekend blog hops that I did this weekend.

Thrifty Thursday…..

Wordless Wednesday……

Tempt my tummy tuesday

Ingredients

Directions

A few things I love…. to eat in Tacoma.

They are here!!!!

Meet Me Monday!

Tempt my Tummy Tuesday

Directions

Meet me Monday!

A Conversation with Cuppa Bella…

Worldness Wednesday……

Tempt my tummy Tuesday

Cook Time: 1 hours, 30 minutes

Ingredients:

Preparation:

Know me monday.

A conversation with Polish and shine cleaning….

Happy Monday Photography & A little bit sassy!!!!

Sometimes you only have each other.

All the busy work….

It has been a while. I am so sorry!!

chrysalis Inn & Spa review……..

chrysalis Inn & Spa review……..

A little lost…….

A little lost…….

A Conversation with Renee Brofsky

A Conversation with Renee Brofsky

A wonderful time at the Tolovana.

A wonderful time at the Tolovana.

Welcomed back to the Inn at the four winds!

Welcomed back to the Inn at the four winds!

Looking forward to many things this summer!!

Looking forward to many things this summer!!

Fairfield Inn & suites review.

Fairfield Inn & suites review.

The Ledgewood Hotel in Yakima review!!

The Ledgewood Hotel in Yakima review!!

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

Thrilling Thursday Linky Party! ( Crafts and more )

KMCT presents OKLAHOMA!

Blog hops! :)

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do! WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP

Blog hops! :)

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do! WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP

My First V-log with The Maxwell Hotel in Seattle.

My First V-log with The Maxwell Hotel in Seattle.

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do!

WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP

Check out this great blog hop!!! Lets do this and celebrate! :) This is alwys a fun hop to do!

WELCOME WEDNESDAY BLOG HOP