Apple Pie Adventure

Have you ever indulged in a homemade apple pie (made from scratch)? We have a family friend that makes the best apple pie, and I usually request one for family functions. For my birthday a few weeks ago, she graciously gave me a Pampered Chef peeler/corer/slicer, 8 granny smith apples, and a coupon for a free pie lesson.

I decided to utilize my coupon and turn it into an Apple Pie Party. We all gathered in my mom's kitchen and made 7 apple pies on a Saturday afternoon. Let's just say that the apple peel alone filled up a trash can!

The final product was delicious - and the vanilla Blue Bell made it even better!

Spring in my step

Spring is my favorite time of year for several reasons.
Reason #1: Winter is over - hallelujah - I dislike cold weather.
Reason #2: I love plants and flowers.
Reason #3: Horse show season begins.

To celebrate the beginning of spring (albeit a little late), Derek and I went to the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens yesterday. Unfortunately, record crowds hindered us from even finding a parking spot, so we settled to drive to TCU and see the tulips. We probably missed the peak by about 1 week, but the flowers on campus were still lovely.

Happy Easter to everyone, and happy Spring.

Lovely London

Derek has been fortunate to travel to the UK four times over the past few years for work. In February 2009, I met him in England after he completed his first week of business in Cheltenham. We met in Swindon, and I eagerly rode the train to London each day that he worked. The train arrived in Paddington Station which was extra exciting for me......When my brother first met me as a baby, he gave me a Paddington Bear (that played music). I believe this gift started two collections; stuffed animals as a child, and music boxes to this day. Paddington was displayed prominently in my room, but I was never allowed to play with him. Therefore, he still looks brand new all these years later (thanks mom...) Paddington Station has a large Paddington Bear kiosk, and I spent lots of pounds there because Paddington is such a happy memory for me. Yes, all my family received Paddington Bear themed products for souvenirs.

I crammed as much sight seeing into my trip as possible. On an off day, Derek drove me to see Stone Henge for a sunset which was lovely. I will always remember London as our first vacation as a married couple.










We visited a park, and this little boy chased pigeons for over half an hour with so much enthusiasm. His expression is priceless. I enjoyed his carefree spirit and determination.