Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Loaded Questions and Apple Survey

Jade and Josh are big game players. They got a new game called Loaded Questions. It is a really fun party game for 6 people. You read a question like, if you were to write a book what would it be on? Everyone answers anonymously and the person whose turn it is has to guess who wrote the answers. It is a pretty fun game that I would recommend.

While we were playing the game Jade brought over 15 different apples that we all tasted so we could figure out our favorites.

Here is the results:

Honeycrisp 1
Golden Delicious 1 sweet and sour
Pink Lady 2
Pacific Rose 2 sweet rose taste
Ambrosia 2 sweetest vintage taste
Fuji 2 crisp
Gala 3 no flavor
Braeburn 5
Jonagold 5
Cameo
Red delicious worst
Macintosh worst
Rome worst

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

You're Invited to a Women's Retreat June 3-5 2009

As a life coach I have learned so many wonderful ways to help women and I'm so excited to put them to use at another retreat. My dream is to help women find their passion, live their purpose and find more joy and love in their relationships (which means putting themselves first sometimes).

I believe when women are able to get away for a day or two, they come back refreshed and their children and husbands appreciate them even more. It is a win win situation for everyone. The retreat is a way to get away, learn, deepen friendships, dream bigger, and have fun too.

I hear from women all the time about the guilt they feel when they take care of themselves. They think they are being selfish if they spend any time or money on themselves. They can't bear the guilt. You don't have to feel guilty. You deserve to put yourself first sometimes and get replenished and renewed. It isn't selfish it is healthy. Do you know what happens when you give EVERYTHING to EVERYONE and never yourself? Pretty soon your bucket is empty and you don't have anything left to give. Can't we see that when we are happy, balanced and fulfilled we have more to give, and we are setting better examples for our daughters? I see women all the time signing their children up for camps, classes and buying clothes for their kids, never thinking that those things are important for themselves too. I could go on and on about this subject because I am passionate about women taking care of themselves. If it is your time to have fun and renewal please consider coming to our getaway.

The retreat is June 3-5, 2009 at Marriott Canyon Villas at Desert Ridge in Scottsdale. Here are some pictures of the resort.
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos/phxcv-marriotts-canyon-villas/ It is a very beautiful, upscale resort.

There will be lots of classes, great food, activities, crafts and socializing. After the last retreat was over several of the participants asked if they could come back to another one. (Their testimonials are toward the end of this post)

Let me introduce you to the retreat instructors.
This is an amazing team of professional women who are knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach.

Shari Lyon. She is a wellness coach and licensed massage therapist. She is passionate about her slogan of “live well, eat well, be well.” The only thing that makes her happier than living a natural health lifestyle is helping others make great changes in their lives so that they too can experience “wellness”!
She has completed many, many hours of natural health education, has earned a BS in holistic nutrition and is currently working on her MS in holistic nutrition. She has trained in EFT, Chinese cupping, reflexology, and aromatherapy. She has also completed the requirements as a certified natural health consultant.
http://sharilyon.com/


Michele Baer is the mother of six, a singer, songwriter and inspirational speaker. She has released 3 CD's, "Never Give Up-Songs of Faith and Family", "Out of the Dust" and her newest (came out April 2009) is "You're Worth it All." She has a big heart and it comes through when you hear her messages of Hope for women. Michele is very involved in the community, serving as the State Director of Family Leader Network as well as producing numerous charity events. She received the American Mothers National vocal award in recognition of her ability to balance family, music and community service. Hear selections from http://michelebaermusic.com/


Dodie Blomberg, M.Ed, is a professional development coach with a passion for moving people towards a more positive outlook. Dodie is a Certified Positive Discipline Associate who supports and encourages teachers and parents to focus on children’s strengths and assets, thus promoting cooperation and solutions. She is dedicated to promoting respectful relationships in homes, schools, and communities. Dodie gets the opportunity to practice her positive relationship skills as a Junior Scout Leader, an AFAA certified fitness instructor, a children’s dodgeball coach, and especially as a wife and mother of two great children.
http://positivelydodie.blogspot.com/


Allison Johnson just got back from a two week training at the Conselle Institute of Image Management. She is about to burst waiting to teach you all the things she learned. (I can't wait!)
She has a sophisticated and classic style and helps others find their style, best looks and proportions. She is amazed at the transformation that happens to women on the inside by helping them with a few changes on the outside.
Allison has always loved clothes and what they can do for a person's self esteem. She believes we truly do reflect what's inside by how we present ourselves on the outside. We do that by what we wear. Every body can look fantastic. Every body-- not just the perfect size 4, Victoria's Secret body. Allison's passion is to help every woman find that beautiful diva inside and teach her how to look her absolute best by how she adorns her body.
Allison is a graduate of Brigham Young University, a flight attendant for 22 years, and is a professional Image Consultant.
http://allichic.blogspot.com/

Jodi Hatfield is the owner of Blossom Salon and Boutique on Main St. in Mesa. She is a creative genius and she is our designated fun maker. Jodi has a great eye for flattering hair styles and colors and has great taste in clothes and interior design. She keeps busy by remaking vintage furniture, designing children's bedrooms and having fun with her husband and daughters.
http://blossomsalonandboutique.blogspot.com/
http://hatfieldfamilyblog.blogspot.com/



Carla is the President of Time to Blossom Coaching and Retreats. She received her coach training from Adler School of Professional Coaching and has been coaching for 2 years. She is a life long learner, especially in the area of personal development. She and her husband of 27 years have 5 children and have owned many businesses together. She brings all of these experiences and knowledge to her coaching.
She has a passion for helping women live fulfilling meaningful lives.
http://timetoblossom.com/

The cost of the 3 night Scottsdale retreat is $335.00. This includes all classes, food, activities, crafts and accommodations.

The retreat is 6/3-6/5, Wed-Friday. The retreat activities are over Friday night but you are welcome to spend the night and checkout at 9:00 am Sat. morning.

Here is what you missed at the last retreat
.

Jodi had little signs on the doors of the main rooms so it was easier to know where to go. One room was called the fun room. It was for line dancing, picnic, future self exercise and our dancing queen training. There was also the girl talk room. That was for our workshops and cooking class. And our fabulous yum yum room where we had wonderful meals, a candlelight dinner, crafts and a little dancing on the table.

Fun girls

Two of the teachers, Dodie and Michele, looking gorgeous! That night Michele gave us an inspirational talk of word and song. She writes music of hope for women. I love to hear her tell how and why she wrote the songs. Then of course the best part is hearing her sing them.
We were lucky enough to hear 4 of the songs that are going on her new album that will be out in a few months. I love these songs so much, I will let everyone know when they are finally available.
Dodie did some life coaching and taught a few classes including Top Card.

Shari teaching her wellness class.

Our candlelight dinner eating Shari's gourmet healthy food.

Jodie teaching us line dancing. Yes, we eventually got dancing pretty well. We had to watch her for awhile first.

I didn't get a picture of Allison teaching her fashion class but she was fabulous! She gave us all some great information and motivation. I have heard reports of people buying shoes, altering clothes and buying new foundation garments. Whoo hoo!

It was fun seeing everyone's goals in pictures as the women made dream boards. I got reports from the ladies that they have hung up their strengths craft and dream boards in their closets and bathrooms so they can see them everyday.

This was the Top Card activity that Dodie facilitated. Many women said this was their favorite part.

We made a craft using the strengths the women discovered about themselves. They all turned out unique and pretty.

The food was awesome. Here is the panini bar we had the last night. We also served roasted red pepper soup, tortilla soup and a yummy salad.

The wonderful women who came to my first retreat.





Here is what the participants said:

Retreat Testimonials


I had a wonderful two days and loved every minute of it. It was amazing!!! I loved the lessons you taught and the lessons that I learned about life and myself. You are an amazing person and I appreciate you sharing so much of yourself with us. I really had a wonderful time and would totally love to do it again. Thank you!! I truly enjoyed all of the women that spoke, sang and danced. It was a once in a lifetime activity. Thanks so much, ~Patrice

I loved the retreat on so many levels. I know this sounds trite, but it really did change my life. Thank you so so so so so much!!!! ~Lisa

In addition to staying in beautiful facilities, meeting some amazing people, and eating delicious food, my favorite part of the retreat had to be the focus I came home with. With the skills I learned and the discoveries I made, it has been easier for me to realize and give attention to those things that are most important in my life. -Colette

I left the retreat feeling fed both physically and emotionally. I learned so many new things, but didn't feel soo overwhelmed that I wouldn't be able to get any of them done. I hope to add a nice protein shake to my breakfast. I think about the start of my 100 goals all the time, and think about what I might be able to accomplish. I bought a new pair of shoes to help update my wardrobe. I have my strengths picture in my closet, where I see it every day, and my poster is hanging there as well. It was so fun to share, laugh, and learn in a beautiful place with women that I felt completely safe with. ~Denise

I learned to cook healthier, dress smarter, act wiser, enjoy music, be more goal oriented and finding my ultimate passions. The pursuit of happiness is up for the taking. My horizon has been broadened. Thanks for the experience. ~Meri

Our retreat with Carla Jorgensen was a weekend of friendship, learning, opening our minds to endless possibilities, goal setting, being inspired and lots of fun. I went home knowing I have a purpose and could 'BECOME'.........~Valerie

If this sounds like something you would enjoy, let me know.
carlajorgensen@gmail.com

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Oatmeal Cake


My kids and grandkids came over for a little evening birthday party. Mindy made me oatmeal cake. One of my favorites.

Oatmeal Cake
1 ½ c. water, boiling
1 ¼ c. oats (not quick oats)
½ c. butter
1 c. sugar
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vinegar
1 ½ c. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. soda
½ tsp. salt

Topping:
½ c. evaporated milk
1 c. brown sugar
½ c. butter
1 ½ c. coconut
1 tsp. vanilla
½ c. nuts (optional)

Pour boiling water over oats and ½ cup butter; let stand 20 min. In large bowl mix sugar, brown sugar, eggs and vinegar; mix well. Mix together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; add to wet ingredients. Mix well and pour into cake pan. Bake at 350 for 40 min. in a 9 X 13 pan. Mix topping mixture in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Pour over warm cake.

Jack, me and my birthday roses look quite coordinated.


Here is the amaryllis Jade and Josh bought me. I can't wait to see it bloom. She got it from http://whiteflowerfarm.com/84838-product.html

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Fun ideas


I snatched these pictures off of my cute friend Wendy's blog. This is her at a halloween party she threw for her grandkids.

This is how she welcomes her new grand babies at the hospital. What a fun thing to have on your hospital room door.

This was a grooms cake with chocolate covered strawberries. YUM!!
Thanks Wendy for the inspiration!