Feeding My Soul

Day 2....The Kleinfeld Experience

2012-01-12T12:08:00.000-05:00

back in november, this handsome guy asked this beautiful girl to marry him.

and she said "yes".

and we and carmen (her little black dog in all the pictures) couldn't be happier!
which brings us to this past sunday. my two daughters, two granddaughters, and i met my daughter-in-law-to-be and her mom in new york city to go to kleinfeld...yes, the very one featured in the tv show, "say yes to the dress".
before we went, someone asked me if i thought we'd be on tv. and i said i was pretty sure we wouldn't be, because we wouldn't be dramatic enough and had no plans to try to talk the bride out of the dress of her dreams. besides, we all knew ahead of time that she could walk out in a feedsack and look good. it's really kind of disgusting. :)

so here is the nervous bride-to-be, ready to enter the gates.

the main lobby after checking in for her 10:00 appointment.

the large salon area.

i have to stop here and now to say that i seriously fell in love with this chandelier. i think it would look amazing in the snow house in "doctor zhivago". photos just don't do it justice of course, but that didn't stop me from taking a dozen.

seated and waiting for the bride.

while we were waiting my photographer daughter was trying to think of ways we could surreptitiously wheel one of these dress forms out of the store to bring back with us for her studio. i'm glad to say we resisted our larcenous thoughts and left empty handed.

so, now we have to end this part of the post. the whole reason for being here, i can't show you. she did try on dresses. she did look amazing in all of them. and she did "say yes to a dress"...a stunning, gorgeous, regal dress.
but i can't show it to you, of course. until july.
i will leave you with a final photo. a peek of a style she did not choose. thank goodness.
but she would have looked great in it too.

coda: after kleinfeld we were all treated by the bride and mother of the bride to a fabulous lunch at bond 45. we had such a great time.

couldn't end without one final note.

yes, she fits right into the family.

I'm Spreadin' the News........New York, New York!

2012-01-11T12:37:00.001-05:00

i guess it's not too obvious i'm a musician. i relate everything i hear and say to a song. but really. how can you be in a car, heading to ny, with a bunch of fun girls and not sing this?
my two daughters, two granddaughters and i left early saturday morning to meet up with my daughter-in-law-to-be (yay!!!) and her mom in ny city for the purpose of bridal gown shopping in the tv famous "say yes to the dress" store ....kleinfeld!
her appointment was on sunday morning, so we spent saturday being tourists. after checking in at our hotel we met for lunch in east village with my new yorker cousin at veselka coffee shop. awesome ukrainian food! pierogi, borscht, kielbasa, and the best split pea soup i've ever had in my life.

the building across the street.

i am such a tourist. i spent most of my time looking up. i love seeing the amazing architecture of the buildings, old against new.

it was neat seeing this place. i have so much music from here.

and i don't know why people say new yorkers are unfriendly. this nice man stood on top of his building and waved to everybody.

we managed to get to battery park just in the nick of time at sunset to catch a glimpse of the statue of liberty.

the building used for the facade of the headquarters in the movie "men in black".

the globe recovered from the destruction of the world trade center.

construction on the new memorial building.

as i stood there, i could not begin to fathom being in new york on that terrible day.

we ended our first day by going to time square. it was crowded enough for me just on a saturday night. i would definitely not want to be there on new year's eve. but it definitely was cool.

a time square fixture...the naked cowboy. i mean, really?

and with two young girls in our party, we had to check out 'toy's r us' with the full size ferris wheel in the middle of the store.

thus endeth day one. let's just say that i collapsed into bed that night and could not have moved had the building burned down around me. stay tuned for day two...the kleinfeld experience.

I Can't Believe It's Two Days 'Til Christmas

2011-12-23T17:18:00.004-05:00

more than that. i can't believe it's two days til christmas and i'm not in stress mode. the gifts have been bought and wrapped, food planned and groceries purchased, the house is decorated (not lavishly, but decorated). today is floor cleaning day and tomorrow is food preparation day. granted, i didn't have a lot of gifts to get and the house isn't perfect, but i'm enjoying the season, and looking forward to all of us being together. isn't that what it's all about anyway? celebrating the birth of our Savior with people you love? christmas eve service tomorrow night, church sunday morning, family (husband, kids, grandkids) here together the rest of the day, extended family on monday at my sister's house. now all we need is snow.
i took some pics of the kitchen. it is very difficult to photograph because it is dark. or else i'm just not a good enough photographer. probably the latter.

i'm pleased with my centerpiece. it came together rather quickly using things i've gathered over time. the base is a rectangular footed beveled mirror from rescue mission for $4. the bowl, a 99 cent goodwill find and the birds were meme mose's. i set the bowl in an artificial wreath to which i added fresh christmas tree clippings. the balls and candlestick holders were other flea market and yard sale finds. the only things bought new were the candles, artificial snow and silver snowflakes (an inexpensive box of them from walmart). the pinecones are from our property and spray painted silver.

i do have to say something about the tablecloth. i am so not a plastic person, but i found two large rectangular 'lace' tablecloths at a yard sale this summer. it wasn't until i actually touched them that i realized they were vinyl. they look so real. it's a very soft vinyl, the lace is cut out and the surface is textured like cloth. i've never seen any like them. they were in perfect condition and 50 cents each. i couldn't pass them up.

photo taken standing on a stepstool. aren't you impressed? : )

a few more closeups...

that beautiful glass angel was a gift from my husband years ago. the blue and white snowflakes are boxes purchased a few years ago from walmart. the snowflakes are starched crocheted ornaments.

i love my china cabinet. gary bought this for me the first christmas we spent in our first house, back in 1978. he bought it from a friend he worked with at the time who dealt in antiques. it was in two pieces, had no back and was missing a drawer. he put on the beadboard backing, built a drawer for it, put it together, sanded and stained it...all as a surprise for me. all i did was add a coat of paste wax. i love this special gift.

i've since added to this tree, possibly getting to the point of overdo, but i still like it. this darling little bird is a memento from my williamsburg trip in november. so special.

i am planning on redoing my kitchen this year. i am ready for new colors, a brighter room, cleaner lines....but a part of me still loves the old country farmhouse look so i'm sure much of it will remain the same, just a little updated hopefully.

The Tree Hunt

2011-12-21T22:26:00.000-05:00

thirtyseven years ago, on december 11th, 1973, i had my first date with the man i would marry. the date was to find a christmas tree we could cut down ourselves. ever since, that is what we have done each year. as the kids came along they looked forward to that yearly tradition. it continues now with grandkids. we have changed locations several times as the trees disappear or get too big. i think next year we will have to again find a new location, as the tree farm we've been going to has not replanted and trees are getting scarce. however, we were able to find a pretty one...and it was $10 less because the selection is limited. cool. a beautiful day, too.

my daughter erin is not taking a pic of my tree. look closer.

part of the day's entertainment was watching my daughter andrea get her tree loaded onto her car.

mem-ries, light the corners of my mind...sung ala tom hanks in "big".

A Thanksgiving Picnic

2011-12-16T13:40:00.002-05:00

we had mild weather this year for thanksgiving. for both celebrations. my extended family gathered on thanksgiving day at mom and dad's house. 33 in total if i counted correctly...an ever expanding family. awesome!
it was such a beautiful day. nice enough to be outside watching the entertainment. kids and leaves. can't beat that combination.

a little fall football...

cousins catching up...

big kids get involved, too...

my grandson and grandnephew wave hi...

our immediate family celebrated thanksgiving on sunday. i had big plans to set a beautiful table...good china and crystal. i was ahead of the game with the food. i did most of it on saturday and just left the turkey to cook while we were at church. but the tablescape just wasn't happening. i was running out of time. i was trying to decide how to fit everyone at our table. i walked outside, enjoying the even warmer day than thursday, reminiscing about how bitterly cold it was this time last year, thinking that today was warm enough to eat outside....
holy cow. it's warm enough to eat outside!
which was exactly what we did. i put two pretty lace tablecloths on the picnic table and the round glass topped table, ran an autumn leaf garland down the center, brought out some inexpensive glass plates, stuck flea market gold colored napkins into my flea market turkey napkin rings, and we ate outside. we built a fire in the fire pit for atmosphere. it was wonderful. a thanksgiving picnic. a first.
of course, i forgot to take pictures. oh well.

now let me think here a minute...
we had an earthquake this summer, snow on halloween, and a picnic on thanksgiving....hmmm....

Autumn Bliss in Williamsburg

2011-11-17T09:58:00.000-05:00

i recently returned from a perfect time in williamsburg, spent with two wonderful friends. just us girls. shopping, talking, eating, sightseeing, and drinking in the beauty of God's magnificent creation. we were blessed with three days of the most ideal autumn weather you could ask for.

sunday after church, with the car packed full, we were off.

ronda was our hostess, sharing her and her husband's beautiful time share with goldie and me.

this was the view from the back balcony. a pond with a fountain...what more could you ask for?

we spent the first day shopping...all day. we hit the outlets, specialty shops, a tuesday morning, and even a goodwill. it was great. we were tired when we got back to our rooms, but still had enough energy to enjoy a delicious meal and watch some cooking shows on the food network.

the second day, a little more shopping and some sightseeing. ronda forced us to stop at a stamping and scrapbooking store. hehe

we ate lunch at "old chickahominy house", a lovely place with delicious southern food,

a gorgeous mantel in our dining room,

and a beautiful gift shop... all decked out for christmas.

we spent the rest of the day in old williamsburg. we visited a garden and nursery, learning a lot from the gardener and getting to sample a variety of herbs.

i love the wonderful buildings and beautiful tree lined streets.

and those inviting garden paths....sigh......

a few more shops at the end of the day. dusk comes early now.

such a totally lovely time. it went too fast.

Rake the Leaves, Or Shovel the Snow?

2011-11-14T13:19:00.001-05:00

i would certainly be remiss in leaving the month of october without documenting the earliest snowfall i can remember. on friday the 28th, gary said, "you know, they're calling for snow tomorrow". snow????!!!!!!!!! it's october. the mummers parade is tomorrow. it can't snow on mummers parade day!
well, yes it can. 5 inches worth. the parade was cancelled. it's never been cancelled before.

my pics aren't that great. we waited too late in the day to go for a drive and the light wasn't good. plus, the snow had started falling off the trees and shrubs. it was a heavy, wet snow, and because most of the leaves were still on the trees it caused a lot of damage in the east from breaking limbs. it was a very pretty snow though.

that mound is my seven foot tall ornamental grass. or was.

now here's the weird part. we took a drive to see the snow, heading towards the mountain. on the other side is a small town, and here's what we saw.

nothing. no snow. as we looked, you could see a light dusting on the cars and roofs. but for all intents and purposes, it didn't snow in this town. looking back at the mountain, you could see the line of demarcation.

now, in and of itself, this is not unusual. it oftens rains or snows on one side of the mountain and not on the other. what is weird is that this snowless state lasts only about the width of the town itself, maybe about a mile. then, you start seeing snow again. as in bare field, then snowcovered yard. they got 3-4 inches of snow on the other side of town. yeh. weird.

Watching the Leaves Turn

2011-11-11T16:50:00.004-05:00

i can't believe the entire month of october...probably my favorite month of the year...has passed me by, with me doing only one single post. i dearly love fall and wanted to take so many pictures. it seemed every time the weather was beautiful and prime for picture taking, i was busy with something i had to do, and when i had time, the weather was rainy or cloudy. but i still enjoyed the month. the family and i were able to hit just about every local fall festival there was.
so, just for my own scrapbook of memories, my small photo essay on "what i love about autumn".....

the leaves...

"Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn."

Elizabeth Lawrence

"Nature will bear the closest inspection. She invites us to lay our eve level with her smallest leaf, and take an insect view of its plain."

Henry David Thoreau

the mums...

the pumpkins and gourds and indian corn...

and the sky so clear and blue it takes your breath away....

"Delicious Autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns."

George Eliot

In a Rut

2011-10-06T14:19:00.003-04:00

i often find myself in a cooking rut, rotating the same tried and true recipes. so i've been trying to expand my horizons...finding new recipes...using ingredients i've never used before....
i always use frozen brussels sprouts and cook them according to directions. last week i sauteed fresh brussels sprouts and garlic in olive oil and butter. wow. a whole new world.

a few days ago i treated myself to this special issue of victoria magazine. "bliss" is a pretty good description. sigh....

in it i found a recipe for butternut squash and fennel mash. i've been especially looking for vegetable recipes so this caught my attention.

photo from victoria holiday bliss magazine 2011

also, i've never used either ingredient before. so i stopped on the way home and bought the fennel and squash and made it for dinner yesterday. it is really good! so if you want to try something a little different, here's the recipe.

butternut squash and fennel mash
from victoria holiday bliss magazine, 2011

8 slices bacon
3 T. butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 head fennel, trimmed and chopped
1 small butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and chopped
3 tsp. coarse salt
2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 C. milk
1/2 C. heavy whipping cream
garnish: crumbled bacon and fresh thyme leaves

1. in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook bacon for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until browned. remove bacon, reserving 3 tablespoons grease. cool bacon completely; crumble and set aside.
2. add butter to reserved bacon grease. add garlic, and cook over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly. add fennel, squash, salt, and pepper. cover with 1 inch water. bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer over medium-high heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender.
3. drain in a large colander; return squash and fennel to pot. stir over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until dry. add milk and cream; mash with a potato masher until creamy, or desired consistency is reached. garnish with reserved crumbled bacon and fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
(makes 6-8 servings)

i followed the recipe exactly and it turned out perfectly. this is definitely something i would make again.
i served it with steamed haddock and a side salad.

Evening

2011-09-25T22:12:00.001-04:00

"To find the universal elements enough; to find the air and the water exhilarating; to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter; to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring- these are some of the rewards of the simple life."

~ John Burroughs

Ah, Fall....!!

2011-09-20T13:09:00.001-04:00

sunday was pretty much a perfect day. beautiful sunshine, a hint of autumn in the air, a fall festival, and all my family together for the day. the times i have all four of my kids home at the same time are rare and therefore very precious. i actually have five kids...jill is our unofficial adopted daughter. we love her and she's stuck with us. :)

this was two tops weekend, our first of a couple months of fall festivals. good food, fleas, tractor shows, entertainment, pumpkins and gourds, crafts...it doesn't get any better than this. i didn't take pics because i didn't want to have to carry my camera. needed my hands free for fleas. got some good ones, too.

a tin bowl full of napkin rings for $1. yes, $1.

a set of 8 turkeys for thanksgiving!

i couldn't pass up this white ironstone covered bowl, despite a small chip in the lid. it was only $1, too. it had to belong to someone's grandmother, and needed to be taken home and loved.

my 16th star votive candle holder for 75 cents. i've been finding and collecting these for years.

i rummaged through a box of mixed utensils for silverplate. the box was marked 25 cents apiece, but when i took it to the seller, he gave it all to me for $3.

a little silver polish and a little elbow grease.....

love this transformation!

my grand total....$5.75 !! not bad. oh yeah. add $3 for a bag of kettle corn. a fall festival must!

Woodmont Lodge

2011-09-16T01:12:00.002-04:00

this gorgeous, massive building is woodmont lodge. it is located about seven miles southwest of hancock, maryland and situated on what was the former woodmont rod and gun club, comprising approximately 3,425 acres. the club was formed by a group of wealthy and influential businessmen from washington, dc who decided to purchase the acreage after being invited by local residents to enjoy the abundant hunting and fishing in the area. a clubhouse was built and used as a retreat for the powerful men of washington for many years, until the clubhouse and all records burned in 1903. the club disbanded and the land was sold in 1908 to a group of wealthy businessmen formed by henry bridges, a lawyer from hancock. a clubhouse was built the first year and was replaced in 1930 by this magnificent structure. in 1995 the maryland department of natural resources and the izzak walton league purchased woodmont lodge along with 3400 acres and entered into a unique agreement. the izzak walton league formed a local chapter to manage 1400 acres and the lodge. from october 1st to march 31st each year they have exclusive use of the land and lodge. the remaining 2000 acres are for year round public use. however, the lodge is only open to the public twice a year, once in september and once in the spring. we were fortunate enough to hear about the open house in time to take advantage of this infrequent opportunity this past saturday.

the lodge has had some famous guests....six u.s. presidents, various senators and congressmen, babe ruth, amos and andy (the original radio performers, not the tv actors), gene tunney, and richard mellon to name a few. i had to look up gene tunney. according to wickipedia, he was the world heavyweight boxing champion from 1926-1928 who defeated jack dempsey twice in 1926 and 1927. tunney's successful title defense against dempsey was one of the most famous bouts in boxing history. a little trivia, no charge.

it was so worth the visit. what a beautiful place! huge rooms, massive wood beams, big stone fireplaces.

the lighting looked like something out of a medieval castle.

beautiful antique furniture....

collectibles...

this racing toy is similar to one that kevin kline's character played with in the presidential quarters in the movie "dave", with sigourney weaver.

the lodge had quite an assortment of game trophies, as one might expect...many having seen better days.

to each his own.

however, what really stole my heart was the two huge porches...both the entire length of the lodge. and so deep. i could have sat out there all day. the weather was beautiful. cool with gentle breezes. the views wonderful. the main floor porch had gorgeous stone arches and was equipped with rocking chairs, benches and tables and chairs. you were greeted upon arrival by two concrete watchdogs.

the second floor porch was rife with possibilities. i was dreaming the entire time.

there would definitely have to be a hanging platform for a mattress for outdoor napping and reading.

and again, the views...

gary, nathan and i decided we definitely could stand to live there. grin.

Jeff and Cereal, and a Really Good Sandwich

2011-08-26T01:50:00.002-04:00

it's so funny how the littlest things will spark a memory. i often think of my nephew jeff when i eat breakfast. jeff and my son adam are about the same age, and were real buddies growing up. when jeff stayed with us i had to be sure i had more than one kind of cereal available. if i set out, say five boxes of cereal, he had a bowl of a mixture of some of each. i used to laugh and shake my head. guess who now can not eat just one kind of cereal? when i have cereal for breakfast, it's a bowl of spoonsize shredded wheat, cranberry almond crunch, and go lean crunch. topped with blueberries or bananas depending on what's available. i wouldn't think of eating just one kind at a time.
cheers, jeff!

i've covered breakfast, so i want to share with you a delicious sandwich for lunch. nothing earthshakingly new, but so good. for years one of my favorite summer sandwiches has been toasted cheese and tomato. sorry...grilled cheese and tomato. i asked my grandkids once if they wanted a toasted cheese sandwich and they looked at me like i had two heads. anyway, next time you make one for yourself, add a layer of pesto. i didn't grow any basil this year so i just used store bought. i also used amish made whole wheat bread from my trip to the farmers market.
talk about a yummers, easy sandwich.

also, i've come to the conclusion that in order to become good at food photography one must not be hungry. when shooting my cereal all i could think of was to get a couple good shots before it got soggy. i hate soggy cereal.

and while shooting the sandwich i hurried for a decent picture because i was starving and wanted to eat it while it was still hot. you really get a lot less choosy.

i need to work on my timing.

Jealous...Of Me?

2011-08-25T23:30:00.001-04:00

very seldom is there any reason for anyone to be jealous of me. but my son, adam, is. within a period of three days, i experienced seeing a rattlesnake and being in an earthquake. now, how lucky can you get? i guess it's all a matter of perspective. granted, i was in the protective custody of my car for the snake. and the earthquake was over before we figured out what we had just felt. also, i have to admit that neither event was one i'd like to have happen more that once. but i do have to also admit...
they were cool.

i mean no disrespect to those who have experienced truly tragic events, but i confess, i had to chuckle at this pic posted on pinterest.

Why I Will Always Take My Camera With Me

2011-08-22T03:29:00.000-04:00

picture this:

a sunday drive, dirt road outside of great cacapon, west virginia. i'm driving, see a snake about 3 foot long moving across the road. noticing that this is not your runofthemill blacksnake, i stop, back up. gary says, "that's a copperhead! no, wait, that's a timber rattler!" i say, "holy cow...hand me my camera!". being appropriately brave because i am inside the car, i pull the car up beside the snake, roll down the window, he obligingly coils up into this nice striking mode and i take his picture. how awesome is that?!

now, for those of you from texas and other such exotic places, this might be an everyday occurance. but for me....this is priiiiitty dang cool.

Mrs. Murray's Zucchini Relish

2011-08-14T16:48:00.000-04:00

remember this?

well, now the basket is almost empty. i made zucchini relish this week. you have to understand. this isn't just any relish. it's the best you'll ever eat. even if you think you don't like relish. when my son-in-law first became a part of our family i offered him relish for his hotdog. he told me he really didn't care for relish. and i said, "just do me a favor...try a little bite of my zucchini relish. if you don't like it, i won't be insulted. it's just that it's different enough from traditional storebought relish to be worth a taste." he tasted it, and i've had to keep him supplied with it ever since.
i got the recipe from mrs. murray, another neighbor at another house than my zucchini cake recipe. that sentence makes no sense but i hope you know what i mean.

mrs. murray's zucchini relish

grind on coarse blade:

10 cups zucchini (seeded and unpeeled)

4 cups onions (i had a combination of red and white onions on hand)

2 peppers (a combination of green and red make it pretty)

combine in large bowl, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt, cover and put in frig overnight. in morning, rinse with cold water and drain well in colander.

prepare syrup:

2 1/2 cups vinegar

6 cups sugar

1 T. dry mustard

1 T. cornstarch

1 T. mustard seed

1 T. tumeric

1 T. celery seed

1/2 tsp. black pepper

heat syrup until sugar is melted. add syrup to zucchini mixture, bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes. fill hot jars and seal.

the first time i made this recipe years ago, it made 6-7 pints.

i now usually make a triple batch and have found that a triple batch of the relish to a double batch of syrup is perfect and makes 15-16 pints.

this is a delicious way to use up that overabundance of zucchinis you usually end up with if you have any plants at all. enjoy!

(i also have a really good zucchini pickle recipe i'll be posting soon.)

A Beautiful Day at Belleville

2011-08-13T10:02:00.005-04:00

wednesday was a treat...for several reasons. first, we got to spend the day with our daughter, erin. i love spending time with my kids. what a blessing to enjoy them as adults. secondly, it was a gorgeous day. after seemingly unending days of heat and humidity, this was a jewel. the morning was cool and the highest temp in the day reached only 81, with a delightful "unhumid" breeze. we drove with the windows open and the wind in our hair.
and thirdly, we went to belleville, pennsylvania...a farmers market and flea market in an area populated with many amish families. we try to go several times a year. i know it's a long way to go for a farmers market (a little less than 2 hours), but it's a nice drive and one of our favorite day trips.

there are flowers....

photo by erin

(you better believe we came home with some of these!)

fleas...

photo by erin

good things to eat....

photo by erin

and good company....

what more could you ask for?

we go probably mostly for the produce. among other things, i bought 1/2 bushel of cucumbers for pickles, fresh off the wagon of an amish family, a watermelon, and homebaked wheat bread and rolls.
i didn't take a lot of crowd pictures, because it was difficult to avoid catching the amish. out of respect for their beliefs, i tried not to photograph them. it's difficult though. their simplicity and old world charm make them a desirable subject. i hope, however, their aversion to being photographed does not translate to their horses and buggies. i couldn't resist.

this adorable guy was caught napping with his chin resting on the fence.

i tried to sneak up quietly so as not to disturb him. he opened his eyes just a slit, then closed them again and went on with his nap.

after spending time at belleville we always head a few miles east towards reedsville where there is a row of shops with a big field beside it, where there is another open air flea market. both markets, belleville and reedsville, are only held on wednesdays. all the following photos were taken by erin.

don't you love how you can find almost anything at a flea market?

gee, i've been looking for a grenade....

"guess what...i gotta fever! and the only prescription is more cowbell!"

(some of you will understand)

can you believe though, after all this, the only fleas i came home with was a silverplate knife and fork for 25 cents? i just didn't find anything i wanted this time. who'da thunk?

37 Years Today

2011-08-02T12:02:00.003-04:00

1974

1976

2006

2007

2011

....i think i'll keep him around. :)

Amazing Things....The Eagle

2011-07-26T11:18:00.002-04:00

my dad occasionally emails our family with interesting things he reads, finds, or is sent by others. he sent this photo this morning and it was so cool that i wanted to share it.

this amazing photo was taken by frank glick, an amateur photographer, and printed in the minneapolis star tribune. if you'd like to read the story follow this link to the newspaper website.
i'm definitely taking my camera with me all the time now, lol.

Zucchini Abbondanza!

2011-07-19T11:45:00.000-04:00

if you've ever grown zucchini, you know that all it takes is a couple plants and a little rain and you have more squash than you know what to do with. however, i really wanted that abundance this year because i need to make relish again. but that's for a later post this week.
that first zucchini has to go for zucchini cake. when my husband and i were first married we lived beside an older couple. one day mrs. reese came walking over with a plate holding two pieces of cake...zucchini cake with cream cheese icing. oh my, talk about good! my husband said, "you have to get that recipe".
i did. and now i think everyone in my family has it too.

Mrs. Reese's Zucchini Cake

3 cup grated zucchini (keep skins on, remove large seeds)
3 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups oil
4 eggs
3 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup chopped nuts (hubby prefers walnuts, i prefer pecans)
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt

hand mix all ingredients together in one bowl until well blended. (that's the part i like most)
grease and flour tube pan. bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours.
when cool, remove from pan and frost with cream cheese frosting.

Buffalo China and a Happy Woman

2011-07-16T07:43:00.000-04:00

i wonder if my husband knows how lucky he is. i occasionally remind him. :)

many woman need to be wined and dined, spend a fortune on clothes, want to travel to exotic places. not me. i'm a cheap date. a favorite thing to do? take a drive on a pretty day, with no destination in mind, choosing a road never taken before, stopping on a whim if we see something interesting. it's especially fun if we happen to find a great flea market or yard sale. recently i came home with this. a little dessert bowl in a pattern i've just recently found and fallen in love with. i spent $1. it made my day. told you...cheap date.

"manhattan black" by buffalo china

Amazing Things....The Rescuing Hug

2011-07-15T10:14:00.001-04:00

every once in a while i come across something i think is amazing. i thought it might be interesting to occasionally post one of these finds. this was on pinterest and captured my heart. and according to snopes it is true.

This picture is from an article called "The Rescuing Hug". The article details the first week of life of a set of twins. Each were in their respective incubators and one was not expected to live. A hospital nurse fought against the hospital rules and placed the babies in one incubator. When they were placed together, the healthier of the two, threw an arm over her sister in an endearing embrace. The smaller baby's heart stabilized and temperature rose to normal.

Chip or Dale?

2011-07-14T21:16:00.003-04:00

i know i'm probably going overboard with the whole nature thing, but it's a love of mine and i'm practicing, trying to learn and improve my photography skills. last evening and early this morning i set up a makeshift photo studio on my picnic table, putting out birdseed and raw peanuts. then i took the screen out of my living room window, set up a tripod, drew the curtains except for a peephole for the camera lens, and waited. such fun.

just take a look at those cheek pouches! come to think of it, that's kind of how i feel after eating at the chinese buffet.

the whole gang!

Flitting and Fleas

2011-07-11T12:45:00.001-04:00

I'm a flitter. Some people attack a project, finish it, then move on. I, on the other hand, flit from one thing to another. They usually get done, eventually, but in no particular order. This tends to create a rather messy lifestyle. But, there you have it. I'm being honest.

Projects I'm currently flitting between? Cleaning out the attic for a yard sale. Spring cleaning the front porch, getting the stuff for it out of storage and decorating (yes, I'm a little late and only half finished on this one). Redoing a flea market chair. Redoing the bathroom. Reorganizing my craft room. To mention a few.

Each of these projects are appropriate for certain times of my day. Attic...when it's not hot. Front porch and bathroom...when I have energy (which really cuts down on the times I can work on these). Chair and craft room...good projects for when I'm tired and need to sit down (when seems to be frequently, so these really should be finished by now). (To be totally fair to me, I just started the craft room thing.)

The craft room reorganization subject brings me to a fun thrifting find from this past Friday. I took a half day to run errands and hit a few flea markets. It had been a while and I was going through withdrawal.

I found these three glass candy containers at Goodwill for 99 cents apiece. They have an oval area for a label, which I haven't made yet, and nice snap-on metal lids. Love these! Great storage containers for kitchen or craft room. I chose craft room.

Washed up and in use.

Papillo Glaucus or How I Spent My Fourth of July

2011-07-06T09:58:00.001-04:00

If I am accurate in my search, that is the name of this stunning little creature...better known as the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. She was kind enough to spend about half an hour flitting around my liatris, allowing me ample time to set up a tripod, sit at our picnic table and leisurely enjoy capturing her antics. I took almost 30 pictures and only had to delete one. Other than cropping one for the closeup, these are straight out of the camera. I am more than pleased. I'm sure a professional could find need for improvement, but as a very very amateur photographer, I'm having so much fun. (using Canon 20D and 70-300 f/4 IS USM zoom lens)

Sunset

2011-07-05T01:31:00.001-04:00

Sitting on my patio, camera in hand. Thank you, Father.

You Had Me At Hello...

2011-07-05T01:00:00.002-04:00

What it is about falling down, abandoned buildings? They are beautiful and intriguing. I especially love the stone ones. When was it built...who lived there...what did it look like in it's heyday...why wasn't it passed on?
If I were fabulously wealthy, I'd rescue some of these forgotten gems.

Can you picture curtains at this window, with a flower filled window box hanging outside and a cat sunning himself on the sill?

Oh deer!

2011-06-19T22:04:00.001-04:00

I'm excited. Now don't laugh at me. I know I'm pathetic. But I so enjoyed taking my first nature shot with my new for me zoom lens. Gary and I went for a drive today to get ice cream at a little country store not far from our house. I was armed with binoculars and camera. We spotted several deer along the way. I saw one lying under a fallen tree. We stopped the car. The deer got up and took off running, then stopped and looked at us...just long enough.

Isn't she beautiful?

Meme Nostalgia

2011-06-18T09:48:00.007-04:00

There are two kinds of flowers I grow every year for one reason. They make me think of my Memies...Meme Gamby and Meme Mose. All the grandchildren before me called Meme Mose "Grammy". I couldn't say Grammy. It came out "Meme". So all the grandchildren after me called her Meme. So did everyone else...church and community. Very few people called her by her given name, Idella. The flower that makes me think of her is sweet pea. She had them growing by the back yard gate, down by the washhouse. I loved picking bouquets as a child.
My sweet peas are growing by the patio. They come back and get fuller every year. I salvaged the angled trellis from the canopy that was destroyed by wind a few years ago. It was one of the corner supports. It works pretty well as a support for the vines.

This is four generations of Moses. Meme Mose is seated and holding my first daughter, Erin. Standing are my mom, Joyce, and myself...I'm the one with the big red hair. Please be kind. This was in about 1980. Big hair was in.

I loved both of my grandmothers very much, but I am most like Meme Gamby. She loved yard sales and flowers. She could put a stick in dirt and it would sprout. The flower I associate most with her is geraniums. She bought loads of them each spring and had her front porch full of pots of geraniums of all varieties. In the spirit of Will Rogers, I never saw a flower I didn't like, but geraniums are not my favorite. But I always have at least one pot. For Meme Gamby.

This is me with Meme Gamby at Hershey Gardens. As you can see, I got a very early start to my love of flowers. (Dig those sunglasses!)

I think often of my Memes. I was blessed to have them in my life for a long time...they both lived into their 90's.

To Be Or Not

2011-05-22T18:34:00.002-04:00

Love this saying!

Cafe Press

Old Gate, New Life

2011-05-20T19:58:00.000-04:00

I love old weathered wood. Gary took down the wooden fence beside our house last year. It was definitely way past it's prime. I've been wanting to do something with the gate. It is just as plain as can be, but has the charm of nostalgia more than anything. We needed a new support for the clematis vines growing beside the bird feeder. I have a little more planting to do around the base, but I'm satisfied with the way it looks.

The End of an Era

2011-05-20T19:43:00.000-04:00

Nathan was home last weekend and said a fond farewell to his old bike. It's been through quite a transformation in it's time...nothing on it was original to it. He shared stories and adventures, and I once again realized that sometimes maternal ignorance is bliss.
I took pictures for posterity, and then he put it on the dump pile. Doug picked it up for metal salvage, so it might possibly have a new life again in another form. That's somehow nice to know. :)

Fields Of Flowers

2011-05-20T00:48:00.000-04:00

I have no idea what is growing here, and it's the first time I've seen it in our area. Many local fields are abloom with deep burgandy red flowers. A local resident said she heard something about planting it for the nutrients it will add to the soil. I'd like to find out. But whatever it is or does....it sure makes a pretty springtime sight. I was driving one of our country roads and happened to have my point and shoot with me, so I stopped, rolled down the window, and grabbed a couple shots. If anyone knows what it is, I'd love to hear.

Phlowers and Photography, or, Flowers and Fotography

2011-05-13T13:25:00.003-04:00

The English language is interesting, is it not? Anyway, that's not what this post is about. It's about Mother's Day, and how my kids bless me. I'm perfectly happy with a call, a visit or a card, but they almost always go beyond that.

A lovely assortment of gifts from Natalie, Nathan's sweetheart, included this gorgeous calla lilly.

Andrea and the kids stopped by with this beautiful lace cap hydrangea.

This next photo isn't terribly interesting, but I sure had fun taking it.

You see, it was taken from probably about 30 feet away. Nathan heard me say I wanted to get myself a remote switch for my camera, and surprised me with one. Of course, no birds landed on the feeder on my first trial run. I think the presense of the camera and tripod kept them away. So I'm going to let the empty tripod set there for a while to get them used to it. I did get a visitor at the tube feeder, but it was getting pretty dark for picture taking by that time. I had to lighten the photo a good bit.

I'm really excited about the process of getting some good wildlife closeups. I need to learn how to use the manual part of my camera. I see such wonderful photography on so many blogs and I want to get better. Most of the photos on this blog up to now, were taken with my Canon A20 point and shoot. It takes great pics, is simple to use, and I love it. The kids all went together and got it for me for Christmas one year. Recently I saved and bought myself a used Canon 20D SLR. Now I need to learn how to really use it....as in "what's an aperture or an F stop?"

A Good Day in Birdland!

2011-05-07T13:44:00.000-04:00

Pictures not the greatest, but not bad considering they were taken with my Canon point and shoot zoom lens. But such an exciting day. My Baltimore Orioles are back, busily nest building. And...for the first time since I began my interest in bird feeding and watching...not one, but two rose breasted grosbeaks. Both male, so there have to be girls around too. These were taken two weeks ago and I just now got around to posting.

A Thing For Black and White

2011-05-03T12:29:00.000-04:00

Love, love, love black and white. And when I found these plates at my local flea market/antique mall last week, I had to bring them home with me. Especially when I got 5 dinner plates and 11 dessert/bread&butter plates for $5 and in absolutely perfect condition. I don't mind when I can't get full sets of dishes because I love to mix and match, plus, I seldom need large numbers anyway. I discovered the pattern name is "Manhattan Black" by googling the company name "Buffalo China". It is a heavy, thick restaurant china.

Now this....

is my kind of bargain.

Found at Goodwill. Nice enough to use as is, and able to be painted if needed. How could I go wrong for 99 cents ?
A productive day.

Pig Cake or Mandarin Ambrosia?

2011-04-25T11:56:00.000-04:00

I am a fan of The Pioneer Woman. Love her sense of humor, recipes and photography tips. This past week she posted a recipe for pig cake. Yes. But it looked really good and springy and Easter-y, plus it used a cake mix which was a definite draw for me considering the busy weekend. So I made it for Easter dinner at Jill and Erin's house. It was very good. Moist. Pretty. It is recommended that you keep it in the frig because of the whipped cream in the icing, which would make it a refreshing cool dessert for hot summer days. I just have a problem with the name. I mean, pig cake? So, in discussions on the front porch while partaking of said dessert, we decided that "mandarin ambrosia cake" was a more enticing name.

You can find the recipe here.

Old Bay Shrimp and Pasta Salad

2011-04-20T14:47:00.000-04:00

This is a really good salad, straight from the Old Bay website. It can also be found on the large size Old Bay can. I had it at a friend's house, enjoyed it and asked for the recipe. It makes a very pretty dish too, with the red and green peppers.

Please don't be too critical of the "staged" food photo. I was hungry, and therefore more concerned with speed than art. This makes a good one-dish lunch, containing pasta, meat (shrimp) and veggies (celery, peppers and onions). I usually eat it on a bed of lettuce and accompany it with whole grained crackers. (It happens to be non-dairy too, for those with allergies; as it uses mayonnaise...just check your brand label.)

Public Enemy #1

2011-04-18T08:39:00.000-04:00

Hate these guys!

They scare away the cute birds, the colorful birds, the interesting birds.
They hog up all the food, twice as fast as everybody else.

I sit at the computer with the window open, banging the windowsill with my plastic cup, yelling "get out of here!" like a madwoman. Husband just shakes his head with the look that silently says "you know that won't do any good".
Well, yes it does....IT MAKES ME FEEL BETTER.

Said weapon.

The Sweetest Green

2011-04-17T16:18:00.002-04:00

I'm tired, hungry, cold and have dirt under my fingernails, but I'm content. Taking a break from working in my flower beds. Cleaning out the dead stuff. Exposing the few inches of new green. Is there a more gorgeous color? That fresh vibrant green...after seeing brownness for months on end?

hosta

tansy

the 'must have' pansies

The boldly colorful, hearty pansy...that can withstand the early cold of spring when the heart needs flowers.

(this post was actually written wednesday, april 6, but not posted until today)

Making Headway

2011-04-17T15:06:00.001-04:00

This week we actually had two, yes two, pretty days in a row. I spent the majority of both days in the flower beds. There's so much work to do and I'm so behind. Usually by this time we've had enough good outside days that the beds are cleaned of dead stuff and weeds. Not this year. It's been cold and rainy. Often. But as of Wednesday and Thursday about two thirds of the beds are now cleared and ready for planting.

Of course, I had all kinds of help. One of the days I had all three gk's helping. (Note to self: get more shovels. Everyone must have his or her own shovel.) And after a lesson on what was and was not a weed, we did actually get some work accomplished. Although a good deal of time was spent on spotting and counting "wormies".

"Kids, don't hurt Grandma's wormies....they're good for the soil."

I still have a ways to go. The largest one is untouched.

Where are those helpers when I need them?

Sometimes You Just Hafta!

2011-03-30T15:05:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I had a few spare minutes and stopped at my local Salvation Army thrift store and there they were. Five plates that I knew were going to be an exact color match to the set of vintage creamy white, gold edged dishes I bought about a month ago. Different pattern, different company, but so similar. They were only 45 cents apiece. But the real clincher was the monogram... an "M".
Sometimes you just hafta.

The plate at the top is from the set I bought earlier, the bottom stack is the new set of 5 plates. Perfect match.

Stacked. Sorry about the camera strap, great photographer that I am.

monogrammed plate...The Salem China Company; Salem, Ohio; pattern #9053, wreath monogram.

bottom plate...Triumph, American Limoges; Sebring, Ohio; Hollywood pattern; 22-K gold.

The Art of Thrifting or Fleas 101

2011-03-30T14:24:00.000-04:00

Often, when discussing flea marketing with someone who isn't into it, I'll get a comment like..."It just looks like a bunch of junk to me"... or something to that effect. And the truth of the matter is...it usually is mostly junk. And it really isn't for everyone. Some don't have the time and some just aren't interested. But for those of us who love it, it's a combination of antiquing, bargain hunting, collecting, and the thrill of the hunt. A few of my friends over the years have asked for advice on how to be a successful thrifter. So I've put together a few pointers.

1. Find your shops.
Most towns have Goodwill, Rescue Mission or Salvation Army thrift stores
    where they sell donated items. Sometimes you can also find church
    sponsored second hand shops and privately owned consignment stores.
    You'll find ones you like more than others.

2. Visit frequently.
It's all in the timing. Sometimes you find a lot, sometimes you leave empty
    handed.

3. If you find something you really want, you'd better get it...it might not be
    there if you go back later.

4. Arm yourself with a few simple useful shopping tools.
Make sure you have your reading glasses with you if you use them, or have
    a small magnifying glass for reading the backs of dishes, silverware, labels,
    etc. A measuring tape of some kind is also handy. A magnet is useful if
    you're shopping for brass (it isn't magnetic...painted metal is). Keep a
    notepad if you're looking for something specific (measurements,
    manufacturers, color swatches...) A wonderful price on a hall table doesn't
    do you any good if it doesn't fit in the space.

5. Don't assume because you found it in a thrift store that it's thrifty.
This is a biggie. Items are priced by fallible human beings. They don't
    always make good judgment calls.
    Use common sense. I've seen used items priced higher at a flea market
than could be purchased new elsewhere.

6. Always look in boxes, small and large.
If you watch your fellow shoppers, you'll notice that the majority walk past
without looking in boxes and underneath things. I've found a lot of goodies
    that way.

Both the lamp and the chair were found in a corner at Goodwill, still in their original packing in boxes from Pottery Barn. They were $4 and $3. I later found the lamp in a PB catalogue for $79.

7. Take advantage of bargain days.
Some thrift stores have special bargain days. One of the stores I shop
at has "frugal fridays". You can purchase one item at 50% off. Another day
each week they offer the same discount on books, another day, clothing.
I found a basket of crystal votives. You couldn't tell what they were at first.
Each was wrapped individually in a paper towel. There were 8 for $5. Not a
bad price. But it was Friday...I paid $2.50...much better!

8. Think outside the box...Imagine the possibilities.
This is probably one of the more difficult challenges. Just remember that
    almost anything can be painted. Look for shape and form. A nicely shaped
yucky colored basket could be spray painted another color to match your
    child's room. The same thing goes for a classic wooden candle holder or
picture frame. A terrible looking floral arrangement might be in a great
    looking container. If the price is right, it might be worth it just to buy it for
    the container and pitch the contents.
    I almost passed up these napkin rings at 75 cents for 9 because of the
    color.
But with a light sanding and a coat of rubbed bronze spray paint they're
    now more current and neutral.

I found this pottery and wicker basket in a color I didn't want for $4 and knew I could spray paint it white. I think it will be really pretty full of ivy.

9. A little cleaning goes a long way.
Often glassware in a thrift shop has not been cleaned, is cloudy, and not
    very appealing. The same item taken home and washed til it sparkles will
be beautiful.

10. Thrifting is a wonderful economical way to build a collection of something.
     When you are on a budget, you don't always have the money to go out
   and purchase an entire set of crystal, china, candleholders, silverware,
     etc....   But you can afford a couple dollars at a time.

For example...a long time ago I bought this heavy glass star votive candle holder from Avon. It's just so pretty lit, and I've always loved it. Once, when at my Aunt Lois's house, I noticed that she had several clustered together on her table and I loved the look. I started finding them at flea markets and yard sales. I've never paid more than $2 for one, and most were 50 cents to a dollar. I now have 15. That seems like a lot but they look awesome lined up on a mantle, down the center of a long table runner, or lining the patio wall at night.

In closing....
When it comes to flea market, yard sale, and thrift store shopping, it's very easy to become a pack rat. I try to follow two rules of thumb. First, I've become pretty choosy. The item has to be either something I can really use, or something I really love. And secondly, I then try to get rid of something I don't really use or really love.

A final thought....
If you get home and a few days later think "why in the world did I buy this?" remember, this isn't brain surgery. You probably didn't pay much for it....donate it back! lol!

Garden Shoes

2011-03-29T10:10:00.001-04:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I am not a fashionista. (Did I spell that right? Spell check doesn't recognize the word.) Anyway...I do like to look nice and will willingly and thankfully listen to the advice of my family on what looks good and what doesn't. However, when I'm at home, doing physical work, I dress for comfort and economy. That's my way of saying I wear things that I don't mind getting stained, ripped, ruined. In other words...faded, torn, justcameoutofthelaundrybutstilllooksdirty clothes. (Take that, spell check!)

Clothing reaches a point right before they fall apart that they are most comfortable. Take my garden shoes for example. My family thinks I should throw them out. To me, they are comfy, I don't care about mud and grass stains, and they still have some wear left. Granted, every once in a while my foot falls out. But shouldn't I be the one to decide when it's time to put them out to pasture?

For Christmas, Adam and Renee bought me a pair of Crocs to garden in. I got the "I-know-they're-the ugliest-shoes-ever-but-they're-the-most-comfortable-things-you'll-ever-put-on-your-feet" story. The fact that they can be hosed off has merit.

Garden season is beginning. I'm open to change. I'll be trying them out in that capacity (I have been wearing them inside the house). I do, though, have to agree with the ugly part.

(just between you and me...i still have my holey ones...just in case)

Patio Dreams

2011-03-13T22:51:00.004-04:00

When you dream, dream big, right? This is my dream for our patio this summer. I would love a pergola. We had one of the kind you can buy at Lowe's...with metal frame and canvas top. I love to eat outside, from my morning bowl of cereal while watching my birds, to dinner with family and friends. We enjoyed it for several years, but it finally succumbed to the elements. The location where it needs to be gets a lot of wind and even though we had it tied down, it eventually bit the dust. I would love to build a permanent, wooden pergola. I've been collecting photos for inspiration.

Dream along with me.....sigh......

cote sude

septermber 2006

source unknown

better homes and gardens

martha stewart

martha stewart.com

country living

weekend magazine

better homes and gardens

And how's this for sheer romance and beauty?

aiken house & gardens

This last photograph was from another one of my favorite blogs, Aiken House and Gardens. Treat yourself to a visit...it is truly a delight to both eyes and ears. Carolyn graciously allowed me to share this photo with you.

* Edited to add new pics as I find them.

new england home

How Not To Spring Clean...or...How To Make Others Feel Good About Their Homes

2011-03-03T13:50:00.000-05:00

I am doing a public service today. You are guaranteed to come away from this post thinking "at least my house doesn't look as bad as hers!"

It all started last Thursday. Actually, it started earlier than that. What began as a small loose seam on the wallpaper beside the toilet in the bathroom, would mysteriously grow to a hole. I'd mend it a couple times but it kept happening...coincidentally on days I had certain young visitors of the grand kind. This little area of missing wallpaper eventually grew to an area roughly the size of a piece of notebook paper. Something had to be done. In all truth the room had started to look a little worn and I was so ready for a change. So....last Thursday after school we cleared out the room and I told the grandkids (ages 11, 8 and 4) to go to it and start ripping off the wallpaper...legally. They did almost the entire room by themselves and did a great job.

Here's mess #1.

Then, over the weekend I was pulling music out of the file cabinet for my son's girlfriend who, by the way, is a fabulous singer. When I went to put it away this week I acknowledged the fact that the file cabinet was stuffed to the gills with music and some things had to go and it also had to be better organized. This resulted in the piles of music everywhere and the pool of trash in the middle of the floor.

Mess #2.

When preparing Monday evening's dinner, I wanted to fix a really good meal (especially since the house was such a mess) and needed my special recipe for pork loin with cherry sauce (I need to post that some time...it's delicious). Well, I started rummaging through my stack of loose recipes...you know what I mean. That pile or box of recipes you have that you've printed off the computer, ripped out of magazines, quickly copied off the cooking channel, jotted on an envelope at someone's house, torn off boxes and labels. Yeah, that pile.
I couldn't find the recipe. That led to me pulling out the entire stack and starting to sort and organize. All over my previously cleaned off island. I'm not finished yet.

Mess #3

In needing more light to see to sort, I had to replace 3 burned out lightbulbs in the chandelier. For which I needed a stepladder. And, while I was up there, I might as well take down the crystal swag I had wrapped around it for Christmas. And while I had the stepladder out I might as well take down the swag from the china cabinet, which led to the wreath on the wall and the one on the door. Which is why the table is full of Christmas stuff that needs to go to the attic.

Mess #4.

Which leads me to the attic. I didn't even have the nerve to take pictures of it. I'll take the Christmas stuff from the table up with me when I go up into the attic tomorrow to clear a path so my husband can replace the exhaust fan in the bathroom ceiling so I can start painting the ceiling and....isn't this where I started? Sigh......I think I need to go lay down.......I'm tired.

Very Vanilla

2011-02-16T14:29:00.004-05:00

I'm making my own vanilla. It's so easy. The most difficult part is waiting for it to mature. I got the idea from one of my very favorite blogs....StoneGable. It's a delightful combination of inspiring ideas for decorating, tablescapes, recipes, crafts and just sheer beauty.
This is the link to her directions, but take the time while you're there to treat yourself to a visit. StoneGable

You need a pint of vodka, three vanilla beans, and a container. That's the recipe. With a sharp knife, split the pods through the length and add them to the vodka. That's it. Store in a cool dark place and shake once in a while. I've googled "making homemade vanilla" and all the directions are pretty much the same. The recommended waiting time varies from 2 to 6 months. Yvonne at StoneGable says 4 to 6 months. The initial investment is a little high (vanilla beans are a little expensive), but when you compare the high cost of a little tiny bottle of vanilla to the fact that you won't have to buy any for years, it's certainly worth it.
My vanilla is now about 3 weeks old and you can see how dark it is already. I recycled a sparkling water bottle. I'd like to find or make a label for it yet.

Go With the Flow

2011-02-14T17:54:00.001-05:00

Intended schedule for Valentine's Day:

*get up, finish washing dishes i didn't get finished yesterday.
*get ingredients together and chop walnuts for surprise black walnut cake for
husband (one of his favorites)
*shower and go to doctor's appointment
*get back by lunchtime and bake cake
*have cake beautifully presented and waiting for hubby when he gets home
from work.
*go out to dinner.
*come back for dessert.

Actual schedule for Valentine's Day:

*sleep in a little because didn't sleep well because of hubby's moaning and
coughing and my own aches and pains.
*get up and call daughter for help because sick husband's doctor's
appointment is at same time as mine but in the opposite direction and he's
too sick to drive himself.
*shower quickly and go to doctor's appointment.
*stop at grocery store for soup etc. for lunch.
*stop at pharmacy on way home for hubby's prescription.
*wait for said prescription because of course it's not ready.
*get home and eat a quick late lunch.
*run grandkids' valentines to their house because i of course forgot to mail
them in time.
*get back home and hubby asks if i'd run to the ac&t for a bottle of coke.
*purchase said coke plus chocolate eclair for husband for valentine's day.
*sit in parking lot and talk on phone to help out some people i love. (not
complaining)
* get back home and get on computer to send important email.
*still on computer chuckling to myself as i write this and about to head
downstairs to fix supper.

Ain't love grand?

...you make my heart sing.

Self Control and the Lack Thereof

2011-01-20T02:10:00.002-05:00

I try to get to a flea market/thrift store about once a week and have found a lot of little, useful, fun things lately. I'm keeping my eyes open for table setting items. Like linens, napkin rings, crystal, dishes, etc. The dish part is the most difficult for me to control. Pretty dishes are a real weakness. But they're also the hardest to find storage room for. So I really do try to use self control. Try being the key word here. I stopped in at the local salvation army thrift store a week ago and saw this set of dishes. 43 pieces for $20. In excellent shape. Which is rare for older sets rimmed in gold or silver. It's usually worn. Normally I'm not drawn to anything retro but these really appealed to me. However, my practical side won out. I don't have room. Went home without them.
But they kept calling my name. Decided to go back for them, but things kept interfering. If they were sold, I just wasn't supposed to have them. I finally stopped in yesterday. And they were marked down to $15. Need I say more?

I love the handles on the covered vegetable bowl and sugar bowl lids.

I almost passed up a bag of very 80's dusty rose and mauve napkins rings for 75 cents. But then I realized...they're wooden...I can spray paint them any color I want. I even have some different metallic paints. That might be a possibility...

The White Sofa

2011-01-19T15:29:00.001-05:00

We needed a new sofa. Desperately. The one we'd had for the last 6 or 7 years was pretty shot...ripped armrest, sagging springs and squished foam cushions. But it had been a freeby and served us well. Although hubby is back to work after being laid off for a year and a half, we're not quite ready yet to buy a new one. We found a used one in excellent condition, but it was....white. A creamy white, but white. You have to understand. Our living room is our everything room. We have no "family room". We eat, watch tv, entertain, have visiting grandkiddies and granddogs in this room. I said to hubby, "It's pretty, it's comfortable, it's in excellent condition, the price is right, but it's....white! So very not practical."
A week went by and we both kept thinking about that couch. So we bought it. It really does look nice in the room and it's so comfortable. There are new sofa rules. No food and no dogs!

A Perfect Christmas

2011-01-19T14:46:00.001-05:00

(Even though I didn't post this until today, I wrote it Monday December 27th...how's that for being behind?)

My two sons just left after being home for about a week. My two daughters live close by, which to me is a wonderful blessing. It was so great to have them all here for Christmas. And that's what makes a holiday special.
You see, although I had great plans, I was sick with a bad cold pretty much from Thanksgiving until about a week before Christmas. It sapped what little energy I have sometimes. On top of that, we kept my three grandchildren for about a week and a half while their mother was off in the tropics for a wedding. They didn't get the best me either.
Thankfully I didn't have a lot of gifts to buy because I had all my shopping to do the week before Christmas.
I wanted to have a beautifully decorated house...I did manage to get the swag on the stairway and one on the china cupboard earlier in the month.

The tree was purchased the second Sunday in December. It set outside until Christmas Eve. I struggled half the night with lights that didn't half work (definitely a must-purchase for next year). Last night I added Meme Gamby's vintage ornaments to a little tree in the kitchen. Yes, last night. (I still have a week to enjoy them).

God bless my girls, because thanks to them we have plenty of delicious cookies for the holiday. Despite my lack of enthusiasm, they insisted we have our baking day and I'm so glad they did. It's always one of my favorite times.
But, thank you Lord....I felt good in time for Christmas and enjoyed every moment. The tree wasn't perfect, the house wasn't perfect, but when we're all together we always have a wonderful time. And isn't that what it's all about anyway?
Happy birthday, Jesus!

Yet More Bargains

2010-11-17T16:31:00.001-05:00

It probably seems that all I do is spend my days going to flea markets. Not true. I spend one day a week away from home, teaching piano lessons. During that time I often have cancellations, during which I run errands. I am fortunate to teach close to several thrift stores...Goodwill, Rescue Mission, and Salvation Army all being within a few minutes drive. Price-wise, the Salvation Army thrift store is by far the best (and I just recently discovered it).
On my last visit I made four purchases.

I bought 4 wine glasses...plain goblets with pretty swirled stems. Unfortunately I gave them to daughter #2 before taking pics. They were 15 cents apiece. I couldn't believe it.
The 3 white ironstone plates were 25 cents apiece. I was tickled to find these, as I already had four in this pattern at home. There are no markings on the back of the plates.
The blue bowl was 75 cents and the silverplate knives 20 cents each.
Total spent....$2.50 plus tax.

I enjoy fleamarketing for several reasons. The fun of the hunt. There are many times I walk out of the store with nothing. I don't buy just to buy. The economical aspect. I'm saving money bigtime, and am still able to have very pretty things that I might otherwise not be able to afford. The whole "green" thing. I believe strongly in recycling. This is recycling usable and often beautiful items. Anything we can prevent from going into a landfill is a step in the right direction.

And did I mention, it's fun!!

Yard Sale Heaven

2010-11-17T15:27:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday I found the best yard sale I've ever been to. Most of the time I'm happy to find one or two items at a yard sale. I had some time to kill while my husband was at an appointment. Having noticed that we passed a yard sale about a mile back, that's where I headed. This is my list of purchases.

Unpictured:
* 3 small white oval bathroom rugs that look like they've never been used
* a 1/2 pound box of straight pins (that's a lot of pins)
* a neat vintage suitcase (that I already gave to daughter #2)
* a little Goofy bobblehead (for daughter #1 who collects him)

* two galvanized metal watering cans
* this great wire basket

* a pair of glass candle holders
* a heavy duty gingerbread man cookie cutter
* a very cool set of nesting cookie cutters with choice of straight or scalloped
edges

Grand total? You won't believe this...... $4.00
I know... unreal, isn't it. Everything I bought was either 25 or 50 cents.

I had a blast. I know...I'm easily entertained.

This and That

2010-10-27T23:38:00.000-04:00

Remember this lovely sand painting?

And these?

A little cleaning, and behold...

Definitely worth keeping.

Not the greatest photograph, but these hastily grabbed branches of stunning, gorgeous simplicity have given me so much pleasure this week.

Pumpkin Dip...Yummers!

2010-10-27T12:25:00.001-04:00

Always on the lookout for pumpkin recipes, as I preserve pumpkin puree, I wanted a recipe for a dip I could use with gingersnaps. I'd had it once before at someone's house. I googled pumpkin dip and ended up with four slightly different ones. I don't know if I'll try the others or not, because the first one I tried is soooo delicious. I found it on a blog called "Closet Cooking". It was fast and easy to prepare. As good as it was right after making it, it was even better the next day. So try to make it a day ahead of serving and refrigerate. My version is probably a little lighter in color than if you used storebought pumpkin because we grow the green striped long neck pumpkins for canning.

1 8oz. cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups pumpkin puree
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp cloves
1/4 nutmeg

Beat with mixer until smooth. Serve with ginger snaps. (I would think it would be delicious with fruit, too)
Enjoy!!

If I Were A Rich Man....

2010-10-25T15:13:00.002-04:00

...daidle deedle daidle, diggah diggah deedle daidle dum. Boy, did the spell check ever go crazy on that phrase. Sorry, but certain phrases always lead me into song. Anyway...

Once in a while we have fun speculating about what we would do if we were fabulously wealthy. Daughter #1 and I have one venture we dream about. We would buy and restore wonderful old buildings. We love to go on drives with no particular destination in mind and you almost always go by a crumbling old house, church, factory, barn, etc...that still retains a hint of it's former self. We hate seeing these beauties being lost to time and neglect.
My husband and I went on a short fall drive yesterday and passed this old church. I don't know why, but I am always drawn to these structures and would love to stop and explore. We were speculating about the nature of the building. He thought it was a town hall or community building. I think it was a church/schoolhouse (like Little House On the Prairie)...used as a church on Sundays and school through the week. I'll have to do some researching.
I at least had to grab some pictures.

This charming old church will eventually just die and be lost. How sad. If I were a rich man.....

One Project Accomplished

2010-10-23T18:02:00.000-04:00

Remember this?

Just using this and adding bits and pieces of supplies I had on hand, I have my fall wreath finished.

Please look past the faded and peeling door paint...that's to come. But I'm pleased with my wreath, especially since I didn't need to buy anything. Thanks Mom!

And I Was Doing So Well....

2010-10-21T00:50:00.000-04:00

...until yesterday. I went shopping at the "House of Mom". Mom and Dad cleaned out their attic, and Mom put everything she didn't want in the dining room. The table was full and overflowing onto the floor. She scheduled a day that all four of us girls (three sisters and our sis-in-law) could come for a morning of choosing what we wanted, and then she fed us a delicious meal.
I went with the best of intentions. I wasn't going to bring much home...I'm in the process of purging. I had adopted the philosophy of bring something in, take something out, and was doing pretty well. I have several big boxes in another room that are being filled with yardsale and donation items, and I've even thrown things away!!! Gasp!
Well, I didn't do so well with my resolve yesterday.

The easy stuff first.

Now, who could resist this beauty? So 80's. Contents dumped, container washed, and now a useful vase or candle holder.

I needed a grapevine wreath to make a fall arrangement for the door and one can always use good quality silk greenery for arrangements. Right?

Next, the obvious choice.

Aren't these pretty? They are sushi plates and small, but will service very well as dessert or bread plates and mix beautifully with my blue and white dishes. I couldn't pass them up, and the price was right.

These next items I have to admit, I really didn't need, and I really don't have room in my overcrowded china cupboard....

but....they're so pretty! And they aren't even washed yet.

I brought these home, too. I love birds. The large one is kind of a funky planter and will go on the kitchen windowsill and be filled with the cilantro plant I just bought. The paper mache ones will be used on a country style pine tree from A.C. Moore that I sometimes put up in the kitchen with the tiny white lights.

I can't even rationalize what's coming next. I don't have any of this color in my home. But nobody wanted them. And I love transfer ware. They needed to go to a good home where their beauty would be appreciated and cared for. I'll find room.

And this?...

Not my usual taste. Something I would probably never purchase, even though it's vintage tinsel. But it was Meme Gamby's. I'll use it somewhere, and love it.

I guess I'd better get busy and find some more stuff to get rid of.

Two Tops and Silver

2010-09-29T13:05:00.001-04:00

One of our family's favorite things about the arrival of fall, is the steady agenda of fall festivals. There is one close by almost every weekend. The first one of the season is Two Tops...food, music, tractor and horse pulls, crafts, food (oh, I said that already, didn't I?), and.....fleas!

Okay...we arrive. And the first stand I walk up to has a utensil organizer with tarnished and dirty silverplate in it. I ask...how much? "Oh...50 cents apiece." Cool, I think to myself, and pick out one place setting. $2.50. Pretty good! While I'm picking them out he says..."Or you can have the whole thing for $5." I assume you can figure out how long I hesitated on that one. I walked away with 1 knife, 3 tablespoons, 11 teaspoons, 5 dinner forks, and 7 dessert forks of Community silver plate in 1932 Lady Hamilton pattern.

I love the magical transformation that takes place with a little silver polish.

Also included was the heavy duty, perfect condition stainless steel utensil tray which cleaned up beautifully, a few miscellaneous pieces, and this cute little brass thingamajig with a lid that unscrews.

As I polished it up, I rubbed extra hard in case there was a teensy tiny little genie in there. No....

On Beauty

2010-09-29T10:56:00.003-04:00

In the last few years I have grown more aware of a need for beauty in our lives. As I experience His creation I think, God could have created a functional world with just our survival needs being met. But He did so much more than that. He gave us incredible beauty. And He instilled in us a desire and need for it. We need a protective structure to live in, but we also want our home to be a beautiful sanctuary. There is a lot of ugliness in our world. We need to balance it with loveliness when we can. Not for the sake of having "things", but to remind us of the wonder of His provision. We have become a society of fast foods, plastic and busy-ness. Don't get me wrong...my husband and I often eat on paper plates in front of the TV. And when our four children were still living at home we were on the go a lot. But I feel more and more that we need to sometimes take the time to pull out that "good china" that sits in our china cupboards, use those precious hand stitched linens that grandma made, and leisurely converse with friends and family...surrounded with beauty. As we go through our daily activities we need to be able to rest our eyes for a moment on that wonderful photo we snapped on the day trip we took with the kids that was so much fun. Or catch a whiff of the fresh flowers on the table as we pass by. Or pause, just to enjoy the beauty of a vignette we created with some of our favorite things.

One recent evening, after a long day, I had a glass of a special gingerale my sister shared with me. I was in shorts and tee shirt with my bare feet propped up. But I drank it out of a gorgeous etched glass goblet. I felt like a queen. ;)

A Little Stamping

2010-08-17T00:35:00.001-04:00

I get to do a little stamping once a month with some dear friends. And I actually got a few cards made.

On this, and the rose card, I lightly sanded the raised portion of the embossing. This exposes the white core of this cardstock, highlighting the embossed design. The white oval bearing the sentiment was lightly sponged with blue sky while still in the oval die, to protect and emphasize the white border. Also, I stamped the flower portion of the oval stamp again on the blue paper, cut it out and adhered it to the white oval. Then I used the 3D paint to make tiny dots in the center.

Recipe: paper- white, Core'dinations canvas textured cardstock "vacation blues" (Storage Units, Inks & More); stamps- Oval All (Stampin'Up); ink- archival black, blue sky (Stampin'Up); accessories- Elegant Bouquet textured impressions embossing folder (Stampin'Up), sanding block, ribbon (American Crafts), Nestabilities (Spellbinder), shiny white Scribbles 3D paint.

As soon as I saw this stamp of Ronda's, I knew I wanted to paper piece it.

Recipe: paper- white, K&Company designer papers; ink- black archival; stamps- need to find out; accessories- Square Lattice textured impressions embossing folder (Stampin'Up), punches (Stampin'Up), shiny white Srcibbles 3D paint.

Recipe: paper- K&Company designer paper, white, black; ink- black archival; stamps- Oval All (Stampin'Up), hummingbird stamp; accessories- Nestabilities (Spellbinder), Scribbles shiny white 3D paint.

I used the same sanding technique on this as the first card. Also, I cut away part of the embossed panel to highlight the roses.

Recipe: paper- white, K&Company Classic K Designer Mat Pad, Core'dinations canvas textured cardstock (Storage Units, Inks & More); accessories- Manhattan Flower textured impressions embossing folder (Stampin'Up), sanding block.

SCORE!

2010-08-06T23:40:00.002-04:00

Oh my! Every once in a while it happens. That fun, big bargain find. I had an hour to kill on Tuesday (two piano students out on vacation). So I slipped to the Goodwill store close by. Thanks to some of the amazing blogging thrifters out there, I've gotten more into the habit of checking out boxes. Off to the side, before I left the store empty handed this time, I saw two large cardboard boxes...one marked "Pottery Barn Kids" for $3, and the other marked PBTeen for $4. Pottery Barn! How can it not be good? I've seldom seen anything from that place that I didn't love. Each box contained an item that had never even been unpacked. I couldn't find the chair in a catalogue, but I did find the lamp. It's listed for $79! Granddaughter #1 needs a lamp for her new bedroom, and what child can't use a classy chair just his or her size? Thank you, Lord!

Not bad for a total of $7.

Best Laid Plans...

2010-08-02T14:12:00.002-04:00

I had visions this summer of projects, gardening, alfresco entertaining, regular blog posts. Oh well. Number one...it's too miserable outside most of the time to even think about picnics, dining out, or sitting around a fire pit. Number two...the outside looks terrible because everything is burning up. My poor, once beautiful flowers. And finally, the biggest reason it's "oh well" to my plans, is that we're renovating a house. Only it's not ours! Daughter #2, husband, and three grandkiddos are moving into my husband's parents' house. Both parents passed away within the last two years and the family preferred that the house be kept within the family if possible. It brings daughter and family 25 minutes closer to their respective jobs, and right around the corner from us. Yay!! The house was an old one and had not had hardly anything done to it since it was built. Needless to say, it needed work. So while everything there is being scraped, sanded, painted, and cleaned, everything at my house is being....ignored. Dust and dirt included.
However, we do need groceries once in a while and to go to the grocery store I need to pass a thrift store and an antique mall. Grin. So, Friday I treated myself to a couple unscheduled stops before groceries. I found 3 beautiful blue and white plates and two very nice silverplated serving pieces. Total spent, $12.

At least when I finally do get around to working on my house, I'll have some pretty things to use. :)

Squatter's Rights

2010-07-24T12:15:00.001-04:00

Squatter- a person who settles on land without title, right, or payment of rent.

I took this pic of a potted plant on my my front porch on July 15th. Doing pretty well.

A few days ago I went out to water and, at first glance, thought my four year old grandson had been digging in my plant. (I apologize sweetie). At closer inspection, I realized that I had a squatter.

Of all the acres of plants, bushes and trees this little bugger had to choose from, she had to make a nest in my planter. Oh well...she new I wouldn't chase her out. I haven't seen her yet to know what kind of bird she is, but she has startled the tar out of a few people as they unknowingly walked by and she whizzed out past them.

No eggs yet.

In Love...again....

2010-07-21T12:58:00.001-04:00

Most of my current collections began with the finding of one "love at first sight" item, usually at a flea market. It happened again this week. It was a plate in a booth at a local antiques/flea market. She had multiples of all the other plates, but just this one plate sat alone. And I couldn't resist.

However, I despair of finding any more. I googled the manufacturer (Coalport), tried replacements.com and couldn't find my pattern anywhere. I'll keep trying, of course. My daughter and I both agree it looks presidential.

A Silver Lining

2010-07-16T18:33:00.000-04:00

Even having little money to spend does not mean you can't have pretty things. I never had much of a desire for silver and now all of a sudden I'm seeing it used in gorgeous tablescapes and loving it. I certainly cannot afford sterling silver but it's so easy to find silverplate, it costs a little bit of nothing, and cleans up beautifully. I have found all of these pieces in the last month (and have had a ball spending my birthday money on them). The largest piece was the most expensive at a mere $6, two of the others were $4, and the rest ranged from $1.25 to $2. Trays in particular are easy to store and don't take up much room.

At the Goodwill Store I found 13 silverplated Wm. Rogers spoons for 29 cents apiece. I can't wait to offer someone a cup of tea.

Cutting Garden

2010-07-09T21:19:00.002-04:00

I planted a small cutting bed this year for the first time...sunflowers and zinnias. It started out well, but it has been so hot and dry that it looks pretty sad right now. As I post this, however, it is raining. We're having scattered thundershowers. I'd like to see it rain all night.
Don't you just love sunflowers?

The Attack of the Killer Mockingbird

2010-07-09T02:51:00.000-04:00

Lately we've had a crazy, noisy mother mockingbird around our house. She must have a nest nearby and lets us know without a doubt when we get too close. She has particular issues with Kramer, our cat. A few days ago, I heard the most awful screeching bird noises. I went to the door and saw her perching beside our patio, giving a reclining, not-bothering-anyone Kramer a terrible fussing. Then she proceeded to dive bomb the cat. Kramer would take a few passes and get up and move to another spot. Not good enough. Mother mockingbird kept after it, even hitting the cat a couple of times. Finally Kramer had enough and got up and left. If Kramer was younger, that mockingbird would have been toast.

The photos aren't that great, but you get the gist.

(Almost) No Cost Decorating

2010-07-09T02:11:00.001-04:00

I have to admit...I'm completely hooked on thrifting, frugality, and green. Yes, the color, too. But I'm talking here about green from the "save the earth" viewpoint. Recycle, reuse, repurpose! Part of this came from necessity. In choosing to be a stay at home mom of four children, I had to be frugal in this two income family economy. Now all four are on their own, but my husband experienced a layoff over a year ago. So the frugality needs to continue.
But I love thrifting! Oh sure, it will be nice to have the extra money to buy that gorgeous antique whatever, or that new sofa that I really do need (I have a throw covering the big hole in the arm of our current handmedown). But I love finding a use for something that might end up in a landfill. I have two ~~rules~~ guidelines that I ~~always~~ usually follow. (#1) Buy only what you need or what you love. You'll find a use for it. (#2) When you bring something home, get rid of something. Truthfully, I have gotten rid of a lot of stuff lately and have plans for more.

The "decorating on a shoestring" TV shows and the wonderful, creative bloggers I've found have inspired and taught me to see objects in a different light... not as they are, but what they could be. I love the heritage of a vintage piece. Who owned it? What is the story behind it?

This and the next few posts will be about some of my recent finds. I've had sooo much fun lately (said grinning gleefully)!!

I paid $4 for this very heavy silverplated Reed and Barton meat platter.

A little silver polish and elbow grease....

and it looks pretty great to me.

Stay tuned for the next installment!

Beautiful Bouquets

2010-07-09T01:13:00.001-04:00

I've received two gorgeous gifts of flowers in the last two months. The lilies were for mother's day, from first son. This picture was taken after almost a week...they lasted so long and smelled heavenly.

The mixed bouquet was for my birthday in June and from second son. The colors were so rich and gorgeous...all shades of reds, oranges and peach.

They certainly know the way to their mother's heart.
Oh, and by the way...the first and second reference is birth order, not ranking. Ha ha. (family joke)

Strawberry Fields Forever.....

2010-07-09T00:50:00.001-04:00

It has been more than a month since I last posted. I hate when I miss so much and have to play catchup. But, here goes....

Hubby, first daughter and I picked strawberries at a local nursery and strawberry farm in early June. Yummers! Strawberry shortcake and the rest frozen for throughout-the-year treats.

Garden Abundance

2010-06-04T00:55:00.001-04:00

Gavin and I picked sugar snap peas today. He's my precious 4 year old grandson, and he loves to help. "I help you grandma". And the thing is, he really is a big help...talking constantly the entire time, but a sweet help nevertheless.
I was able to freeze twelve quarts with enough left to have for supper, stir fried in olive oil with garlic and finished off with a little kosher salt. Oh my, were they good!

More Blooms and the Funky Bench

2010-05-31T23:08:00.001-04:00

Sweet peas.

Spiderwort, hostas, purple salvia and chrysanthemums.

My husband's family is getting ready for the estate sale of his parents' belongings. One of the things he brought home from his dad's workshop is this old bench. My first thought was to sand and paint it. It's kind of a funky color. But the more I live with it, the more I love it's stains and worn areas. It has seen it's share of things repaired and workshop projects. I think I'll keep it just the way it is.

National Pike Festival Fleas

2010-05-30T01:16:00.001-04:00

Two weekends ago was the National Pike Festival in our area, and a prime yard sale weekend. I did score some neat bargains but have only this one photo right now to share. I got this great (at least I think it's great) metal hanging planter for $5. I'm not sure whether it is a planter or part of a light fixture but I love it.

Here it is planted.

I can't wait until it fills out.

A Glimpse of Heaven

2010-05-30T00:46:00.001-04:00

Everything's abloom! It's been quite a while since I've posted, but I have been busy in the garden. There's a little more mulching to do and then it's just maintenance. And enjoyment. Isn't it so good of God to give us a little taste of heaven right here?

Miniature Beauties

2010-05-07T00:31:00.000-04:00

I've pretty much spent every waking moment outside lately, except for rainy days. How can I be inside when it's so gorgeous? (Of course, please don't ask me how clean my house is.) But my garden looks so good. I had to take pics of these little darlings. My friend, Judy, gave me one little blade starter plant year before last. This is the first year I've seen blooms. Just how little are they?

Pretty little.

Old Friends

2010-04-28T04:14:00.003-04:00

These little guys have become regular and welcome visitors at my feeder...Mr. and Mrs. Downy and a red bellied woodpecker. The photos are not the best quality because I've had to zoom in so far. I am just using my Canon A630. It takes wonderful closeups and I love it, but I hope to someday have an SLR with a good zoom lens. One can always dream...

My husband made this feeding log (which is currently being enjoyed by the red bellied woodpecker) for me. He just took a small log, drilled holes in it and added a hanger. I fill the holes with suet.

Easy Peasy

2010-04-28T03:26:00.001-04:00

Sometimes it's just nice to do a quick and simple card. I love this bouquet of balloons. It's easy to color and cut out, and I think they look pretty festive on the Cuttlebugged birthday background. And as much as I wanted to do layers, I made myself keep it simple. Ah, self control. ;)
As soon as I get back together with my friends, I'll update this entry with the name of the stamp (it's not mine). The balloons are colored with Stampin'Up and Copic markers.

Just For You

2010-04-20T12:29:00.002-04:00

It seems like I only get to stamp once a month anymore, when I get together with my special stamping friends. And even then, I often do more talking than stamping. But that's okay, too. I always have a wonderful time.

Recipe: stamps- Le Jardin Botanique and Teeny Tiny Wishes (SU); paper- wild wasabi and chocolate chip (SU), white, Stella Ruby (Basic Grey); ink- black archival; accessories- Cuttlebug embossing folder, SU markers, ribbon (American Crafts).

Vintage Vogue

2010-04-03T11:45:00.001-04:00

Love this new set and wheel. I unmount all my wheels, lay the rubber out flat on my table, and take the paper to the rubber. I've never regretted doing this. I feel you have more control and a much better stamped image, plus easy storage. And I love that Stampin'Up is now selling unmounted stamps...cheaper and less storage room.
As I often do, when I create a new card that I'm happy with, I do it in several colors. This time I used wild wasabi, rich razzelberry, buckaroo blue and close to cocoa. I did a second stamping of the section of the wheel that has the butterfly, cut it out, and adhered it to the stamped image for a little dimension.
For the friends card I stamped the main image twice, cutting out just the "F" and raising it on pop dots.

Recipe: stamps- Very Vintage Wheel, Vintage Vogue, Graceful Words (SU); paper- wild wasabi, rich razzelberry, buckaroo blue, close to cocoa (SU), white, very vanilla; ink- wild wasabi, rich razzelberry, close to cocoa (SU) and denim (Adirondack); accessories- scallop trim border punch, pop dots.

Farmer's Market Fleas

2010-04-01T00:07:00.001-04:00

A few fun and cheap finds on market day: a simple $3 footed compote (great for adding levels when serving buffet style), a pretty glass candlestick (too pretty to pass up at $1), and a very cool little set of glass vials that once contained spices. I haven't decided yet what I'll use them for, but I love 'em and at $1 I'll think of something.
And finally, a 'cheep' find at a gift shop I couldn't resist....

"I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille!"

That's Just Ranunculus!

2010-03-31T19:28:00.002-04:00

Every Wednesday there is a farmer's market in Belleville, Pennsylvania. There are all different kinds of stands, including produce, plants, food and fleas. It's about an hour and a half drive for us, but a pleasant one and so worth it. It's a largely Amish area and so enjoyable to see all the horses and buggies parked in a row.We went last week, taking my parents with us, and had such a nice day. I bought these gorgeous ranunculus. I've never grown them so I have to do some learning.

New Look

2010-03-05T01:03:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's still me. Just as I get tired of things always looking the same in my home and love to remodel, I was in the mood for a fresh new look for my blog. I just took this rose photo today and fell in love with it. Hope you like the changes.

Philly Flower Show

2010-03-04T14:58:00.001-05:00

Monday I had the pleasure of attending the Philadelphia International Flower Show with two dear friends. What beauty! You could smell the hyacinths the minute you approached the entrance. The theme was Passport To the World and began with a hot air balloon totally covered with dried flowers. In general, I wasn't too happy with my photos, but a few aren't too bad.

Oh, if only I had a wooded path that looked like this one.

I was so tickled with my beautiful roses I bought there. I've been enjoying them so. The close-up shows the gorgeous coloration. (Don't forget you can click on the photos to get an even closer look.)

A Hint of Spring

2010-03-04T11:55:00.003-05:00

I received an amaryllis bulb kit for Christmas from my sweet and lovely piano student, Samantha. It bloomed some time within the last few days. What is it about having flowers in your home? That little touch of beauty lifts your heart and brightens your day every time you look at it. Thank you, Samantha!