Sweet Old Vintage

Using What Is At Hand

2012-01-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Received a small amount of snow this morning but sun is out right now but very windy...

Last evening Tom and I attended the Tinora Guys High School Basketball game and it was just AWESOME.... I mean AWESOME.... The astounding fact that they hit 16 - three point shots... yes I said 16... We had 2 of the boys on the team going for the school record at once... Congrats Jake... you broke it by 2 more... Cameron... you have 2 more years to try and I am sure we will see more excitement from you... and the rest of the team were just great... Team ... that's what it is all about... Also had a young man inducted into the hall of fame for 2 state titles in track ... Allot of RAM pride... So wonderful to see your youth succeed... so many times we hear the negative....

This morning still searching for zero dollars ways of adding touches to my little nest in the country I went to the rec room and took a couple very old books with me and wrapped them in scraps of fabric I had used for pillows ... Hand-writing some french and wrapping with cord and a very simple tag completed this little ato do project... I love the simple look to coordinate with other grain sack pillows and cloths I have scattered about my home... I want to purchase another drop cloth for some other projects to create with... The canvas drop cloths are a great way to make pillows... curtains and tablecloths among other things.. They are particularly lovely when linens are set atop for tablecloths... I want to create a pillowcover for a bed pillow for supporting my back as I sit on the love seat in the living room and relax and enjoy reading... I have been enjoying several good books the past couple weeks as the temps are very chilly outside... Finished a Nora Roberts this week and now reading a Nicholas Sparks.... I did bid and won a Nora Roberts book lot with free delivery on Ebay.. What a great way to have entertainment at a budget friendly price... I will read them and pass them to family and friends... Buying lots on Ebay is a fraction of the price of purchase at the store...

Later this afternoon we will be traveling to Ft. Wayne, Indiana to meet up with another couple... friends to enjoy our evening and partake of a lovely dinner at a nice restaurant... We do this a couple times a year with them.... I hope you have some plans for this weekend and of not relaxing at home is just not too bad of a choice either.... Just enjoy what you are given....

Home

2012-01-23T16:04:00.001-08:00

Awaiting to be opened and used for the first season... Our new pool we had built this late fall.... The grass has all been seeded and came up wonderful before winter arrived....and grasses and landscaping were completed since this picture... The building built by the Amish now has been completed and painted and shutters added.... I will post a pic this spring when the grass is green and the pool is once again open.....

Living in the country is all about embracing simple pleasures and staying in touch with the earth and all it's beauty... The countryside a kaleidoscope ... just as yesterday was white with snow cover everywhere while nighttime hours changed the appearance as rains melted the snow away and green grass appeared once again... Tonight the winds are showing their mighty strength as
it whistles through our home...

Yesterdays gathering of my family and sharing of food... stories.. and laughter made life as one loves it to be and the wisdom to realize it...and enjoy... For awhile wrapping paper was flying everywhere and toys when trying to travel from room to room were danced around as my granddaughter enjoyed her 4th birthday. But soon all was quiet and things back in order... Laughter disappeared and time for relaxing and watching a movie on TV completed the day... It was a great day...

Being true to myself these are the things that I hold so dear... my family... my home... my gardens and wonderful outdoor spaces adding the contentment and pleasures one should enjoy the most... I so love the thought and feel of comfort and having other feel the same... To achieve this however, I think our homes must be tidy and have charm.. The way you feel about things always shows on the way you do things...Doing little extra pleasures and touches for yourself as well as others always adds a reward.. Though it may be humble charm, there is no place like home....

NOTE... I must admit I am starting to yearn for summer retreat and the birds and the bees! But till then I will enjoy what is offered.....

Saturdays Musings

2012-01-21T08:14:00.000-08:00

We received snow late yesterday afternoon and over night leaving it a perfect day for children to go out and make forts and snowmen till their little hearts are content... Many a wet boots and wet mittens will be scattered over entry ways... For myself I will be content to spend my time indoors... with the aroma of freshly baked cake just minutes ago taken from the oven fills my home... Meat has been fried for making a very large pan of lasagna tomorrow in the celebration of my grand daughters birthday... I will make ready as much as I can today...
This evening we have plans to make our way to Stryker for a guys Tinora basketball game as it looks the roads will be cleaned and cleared by snowplow of which is just going by our home as I type.
Blogging really has been a God sent for me.. I believe it expanse my thoughts and my heart as it is pure bliss for me to be inspired by little things... The reading if others thoughts and trials of life and awareness of viewing of wonderful objects and home and acres of beauty produces layers of experiences... I always must keep in mind the simple pleasures are very abundant here with blogging as well as surroundings and one must just take the time to notice and enjoy... We share snippets of our passions and our styles.. I would like this year to learn how to add more things to my blog that would serve as eye candy to my readers and new expanding circle of friends... I do encourage comments.. It is always rewarding to hear from other bloggers.. I know many times I frequent a blog and don't leave a comment but I am going to try and do better on that... For quite a period of time last year however I had a hard time leaving comments on blogger... I seem to be ok now but have been reading others are having that same experience I had... Just keep trying... As for me I love spending my mornings visiting blogs for daily doses of vintage and inspirational words and thoughts all keeping with enjoying moments on a zero dollar budget...
Being retired .. my daily blogging is like choosing a parking place when I went off to work everyday... I choose the same parking spot in front of my picture window that the view can be seen from all directions... in the same rocking chair with the laptop in hand... Blogging bliss.
Wishing you all a lovely weekend and find a but of something to create or cause joy.....

Thank God For Small Blessings

2012-01-19T07:44:00.001-08:00

Snowing in the country in Defiance, Ohio today... I haven't left the confines of my home for 5 days now except for a quick walk in the back yard or to the mail box... This makes it a very good thing that family and home is what it is mainly about for me. That's my life... When you enter my home you can see that I have been a collector and have love for the unusual and re purposed objects... yet some very lovely mixed in... I do plan on leaving tomorrow however to do some grocery shopping as I have a small family gathering planned on Sunday for my sweet little grand daughter birthday...
Many thoughts have filled my mind this week with all the news headlines of the week from cruise ship wreck to gas prices.... The projected gas prices have my mind as stir... This will effect so many ... many of us that do not fall in the rich and famous category.... Everything will rise... My already rubber band tight budget will stretch and eventually break... Plans for sole enjoyment to take place in my back out door living space will be taking place once winter subsides... Embedded deep in thought I am so thankful to be blessed to have those outdoor acres..... with having voids to fill for enjoyment....and lack of other expensive treats... { I am worried about 5.00 gas as they have D. Wades new 230,000 car flown in for his birthday } opps the world is a bit uneven isn't it.... Not to be on a downer just facing true facts...every bill we have had come in has went up... Tom's farmland real estate taxes have doubled... yes doubled ... We got a small raise in social security.. mine amounted to 20.00 dollars but the medicare and my supplement raised 50.00... hum short again.... I am aware this makes me very scared but I am also determined above that to enjoy every little blessing and lovely thing offered to me... Passions can still be sought out on a rubber band budget... God still offers many... We must be aware and enjoy... I have had several talks with God lately ... asking if there would be some wonderful ways of full-fillment in these retirement years and have ask him to help show me the way.... Keeping in mind the saying when doors close... windows open and I do know this through personal experience over the years...
Encouragement and inspiration comes through my blogging experiences and sharing... For today however I am about to watch it continue to snow and go finish cleaning m home as I am posting as I wait for mopped floors to dry and search out more little dust bunnies..... Ps... I wonder if I could borrow that little girls horse in above pic for transportation this spring....LOL... just gotta have some humor as we make this journey we call life.....

Ramblings

2012-01-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

I do not remember the source of this picture to give credit..... I also thought it may be from Tracey at French Larkspur.... I always love her belongs and lovely inspiration....

It rained over night... the sun was shinning for 5 minutes and now it is grey and more rain expected... according to the forecast... I am thinking of heading to the basement rec area for creating a birthday card for my sweet grand daughter and a couple Valentines for a couple friends... I feel the need for some "ME" time... I hope once down there I don't suffer from creative block of which happens every one in awhile...especially if I am sewing... I have had many ideas traveling through my head as of last as a desire for some change seems to be occurring... I have this one spot in the kitchen-dining area of our home I would like to change out... I have been thinking I would like some unique blackboard there that I can write some beautiful French words on to add some romance to that area... This idea may take awhile as the search takes place... A trip to the antique stores or flea markets will most likely be needed and I am not sure that is in the budget right now... Just maybe a old cupboard door or window may be somewhere to be found that can be re purposed with some blackboard pant... I did search the Internet and found the one... but 249.00... Loved it but you got to be kidding me right.... no way is that in my allowance.....Finding a way to transform a object for re purpose will bring meaning , pleasure, and purpose. Creating with what I have or a found object may not allow me to have the 249.00 blackboard but it is also important that I don't find myself disappointed not being able to allow myself this sort of luxury... I actually can honestly say the challenge of creating and searching out something presents something I find rewarding...
REMEMBER...
Believing when you follow your heart... dreams can come true.. Creating even on a tight budget shouldn't stop you from doing something that you love or you find important to you.... With these thoughts always embedded in mind, many lovely things have been created.....

A Little Change

2012-01-16T08:33:00.000-08:00

After viewing the edging I created from aged book pages all day yesterday and last evening I decided it was too long... It hid the detail of the custom mantle on our fireplace... I just got the scissors and cut about 4 inches off and cut to peaks free hand without taking it down and it looks much better.... I don't mind that it isn't perfect as most of the time when I work with altered art I always try to make it too perfect... The tearing and grungy is the look I try to achieve and sometimes it is really difficult to get there... When creating especially with paper I think it is much better not so perfect.... I may try to create a little edging for the antique pie safe with the inches I cut from the original edging just to salvage the gluing of the pages together.... Working through my little home with some chores this morning... The main one was to clean and sanitize the fridge..ugh... but completed... mopped and 2 loads of laundry... just everyday Monday chores....maybe this afternoon some "me" time , even if it be a nap... I will be making ham and scalloped potatoes for supper along with a veggie.... Yesterday I made a wonderful pineapple upside down cake as a couple of you viewed on my Facebook .... It was scrumptious....
I am still going through the old copy of "Where Women Create" and getting the urge to not really antique shop but rather search for embellishments that may be with a shoestring budget... I will never be able to create on the level that many of these talented women do as they have a thousand times more supplies and goodies than I could even think of... Many of these things make me drool to be able to have all this to create but I have to remember this doesn't fall in my category.... Guess I will just have to stick with old book pages ... glue... and scissors and some vintage jewelry and a few tidbits.... and count my blessings.... I can still make my nest very sweet and comfortable as I am very content to work my my tight budget most of the time causing more creating ....... For the most part I am a very visual person...and find creations of other to be very inspiring and using put my own twist to things.... All the years of my career as design and floral I always had to be such a person of perfection but with retiring and just creating for myself I find I truly love if all things are not perfect as I have learned not much in our journey of life is... I do not mind a object is not perfect or shows age... in fact I seem to love it more.... Making all the dreams as I had as a child not at all true today... Funny how time changes our desires and thoughts.... Wishing you all a wonderful blessed day...

Magazine Inspirations

2012-01-15T08:54:00.001-08:00

Winter has arrived at our little nest in the country... Desires for inspiration and projects to keep one busy heightens as confinement to ones home is here....
I have resorted in finding older books and magazines in storage that I keep around the house that have lovely ideas in them... Sometimes when you first look at a book it may not have what you are looking for at that time period but other times it is just perfect... Just kinda sorta happened that way for me today... I thought I would share a couple zero dollar ideas with you.... I broke out a older copy of "Where Woman Create" that I do not normally buy too many due to the price of this magazine is not in my budget just like Jeanne d Ark Living... Once I put the money out there I do not part with them, however... Anyway back to the words, I found a couple pages of inspiration... One being the pages of the wonderful works of Elizabeth Maxson... I am a great fan of hers and love her style and words on her blog http://www.elizabethhousestlouis.blogspot.com Looking at the lovely page's I saw inspiration using old men's collars as little frames and via I have a old box with some in here at home... She had used 3 of them hanging on the wall... I may need to make my stiffer to get the look I want and hunt for some older keys to complete the look... Then on another page they had a cut out heart shelf edging made from old newspaper I believe... I do not have any newspaper that was aged so I resorted to aged old book pages and glued them together... It turned out rather cute for something a touch different to look at... Maybe one made for Easter in the dining area would be clever for Easter decorating with no money spent again... This idea came from Cindy Petters http://www.cindypetters.blogspot.com I find it so rewarding when I can find something to do that I can shop my own home.... Blogging has expanded my heart and my mind and to be much more inspired by little things offered and not always going out and spending... there is no guilt if you rid of something then that you may tire of......
Since I decorate for myself I don't mind if it somewhat quirky in fact I love it....Anyone can just go purchase from a store and set it in the home... I prefer to go much beyond that.... as many of you do that offer interesting inspiration...

Our ground is lightly snow covered and the temps are very cold so today will be spend indoors searching for more inspiration and I have a book I want to read through again..... Sending blessings and best wishes your way....

Little Tucks

2012-01-12T08:58:00.001-08:00

Glass cloche on fireplace mantle filled with a men's antique shirt collar... a antique photo and a old pipe belonging to my father......

Glass cloche on dining table filled with lovely lace collar ... a old compact.... old roll of lace and vintage rhinestone and on the back a lovely antique valentine....

Old book pages with covers torn scattered about... Love the texture and coloring with objects I have in my home.....

Little tucks of Valentines with a romantic flavor have replaced holiday objects.. Different little tucks of antique and vintage have been placed in glass cloches or set about... As I sort through objects around the home in a effort once again to add eye candy to my home for zero dollars... Small pages of books with the hard covers torn off and used for altered art projects have had vintage cord and embellishment added.. I have a small altered art book started that I will be working on as the weather become more severe... I have the cover finished and the pages ready for embellishment... the fun part... I also plan on adding some hand written little words of inspiration to the pages to pick up on a day that is in need of a small pick me up..... I will share when completed... It is going to be sweet...

I have found that small little treasures to make layers of beauty offer the inspiration and contentment I seek. These inexpensive little objects offer creative expression and often when changed up visitors think I have purchased new and I have not spent a dime... just played musical spaces with the objects... Winter is my most favorite time for blogging, the wonderful place for sharing and caring... Summer months I spend do much time out of doors but this morning as I peer out to my back yard over the covered pool and rain and chilly and temps about to drop down according to the forecast.... it doesn't seem very inviting... but I do know what awaits in the spring... The back outdoor space will once again come alive with many lovely hours spent there.... the idea of finishing a couple spaces in the yard that it was too late to do in the fall is even exciting thoughts... The grass seed came up and we have a lovely stand of grass where the yard was dug up and had to be redone... I was sure we would have nothing but dirt for a period of time next season but it looks like it will be fine...

As you my friends know ...I love being surrounded by a world of yesterdays... Excitement come when I view something that someone has re purposed... Love for dressing up { oh not me the country jeans only gal } but objects... from prim to girly... I love it all. Especially if it comes off deliciously quirky.... Sending best wishes to all.
PS..... I wanted to share the news of the day... My daughter just called and confirmed she indeed pasted her bar and is now offically a RN... I am so proud of her... she worked so very hard studying... many time ready to admit defeat but didn't.... Now her rewards can follow.... I am a proud mama.....

Musings

2012-01-11T08:29:00.001-08:00

The weather in our area is about to change to colder temps and some snow... We have had some pretty mild temps for this time of year of which has been very enjoyable.... If you are like me you may be searching for inspiration to change up your look in your home after the holidays... All the little extra objects are nested in storage boxes... This morning I have taken the icicles and snowflakes from my windows and have replaced them with some simple hearts made from scraps I have around the home.... I changed up my larger cloche and took down some pine.... Little tucks of Valentines will be added here and there... creating eye candy as we spend much more time inside the home... It will be there for a few weeks and then replaced with thoughts of spring of which I know is quite a time yet... Thoughts are pleasant however... As thoughts travel toward Valentines I just wanted to add charm and thoughts of not spending.... It is very simple to make your someone special with something from the heart... not the pocketbook... With everything once again being over done in our world it is time to get back to basics... For years we have all learned it is the thought that counts and if we haven't we missed out....
Simple thoughts.... 1 exquisite rose and 1 delicious piece of chocolate.... plus I written note can be powerful......
If you love to create..... http://www.robertsabuda.com/ has ideas for pop up cards......

Deep In Thought

2012-01-09T09:28:00.001-08:00

As I travel through my Monday chores my mind and heart feels oh so heavy... I read the blog of Sandy Foster http://myshabbystreamsidestudio.blogspot.com/ and her complete honesty of what has taken place this past year in her life.... as she explains her life has went up in smoke... her so loved dog Belle and her marriage... all gone... A reminder of feelings I felt so strongly over the holiday and was glad to see the new year come and objects be placed in storage... We are so programed that all is magical and so perfect during this time and through the wisdom of many years I know this not to be true for many more people than we would like to imagine... I am so praying for a recovery for for Sandy and others that may be going through difficult times... Another constant reminder to enjoy the lovely precious moments as they happen cause there will not last forever... I will anxiously follow her lovely blog and genuine words and cheer her on as she sorts and pieces things back together... I am so very positive that wonderful inspiration and lovely thoughts will continue to flow from this very gifted woman... As soon as I post this I will be taking some private and quiet moments to reflect on the blessings I am surrounded by... Does this mean everything is perfect in my life... of course not, but I can tell you after hearing Sandy's loving and honest words it seems pretty darn good....

This Happens Every Year.....

2012-01-05T08:47:00.001-08:00

Winter is in full swing here in our area of NW Ohio although we haven't had a major snow storm as of yet ..... The Christmas decorations are all stored except for a few winter objects that will stay out through January at least.... Every year at this time period I am pretty much in all the time and get the urge to push furniture around in different locations....This is a rather hard task at my home since objects were not purchased special for the home rather merged together when Tom and I decided to be partners... Many items do not fit together as nicely as if they were purchased new for the home and are not the right shape but I do the best I can.... He is not one that will say go out and buy everything you want rather believes you use it till it can't be used anymore.... Coming from a family of 10 children I can well understand his thinking and it works well with my always on a shoestring budget.... All the furniture in my living room has been moved and cleaned behind and I am still making little adjustments this morning after moving around in it for a day.....
The next couple months I will be coming up with some projects to keep me busy as we will not be traveling this year and the long months are still to come.... Most of the time I am content to spend all my time at home... Once in awhile I just have to have a change however.... I can honestly say I am very glad the holiday season is over.... I seemed to run out of the ho ho ho the last week heading into Christmas itself... I am not so proud to say but it happened... I not am keeping my mind on thoughts of spring and the opening of the new pool we had built last fall that we didn't get to enjoy and the use of my new area in the back yard... It is my haven.... I just love it there.... So with those thoughts in minds I am spending time with my blogging friends and hopefully finding some new inspiration to share with all.... It seems to take me a bit to get my self organized and back to everyday thinking as we place so much of the way it should be on the holidays and most of the time they really aren't as we are programed they should be....
I am off to take care of the laundry and later this afternoon we will be heading out to eat and attend a out of town Tinora guys basketball game....

Sharing

2012-01-01T09:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh... The New Year arrived as we shared it with two other couples last evening after partaking of a prime rib dinner and returning to our home and a evening of playing cards and having dessert.... Apple pie and ice cream....
Today weather wise really is not a good start to the new year... It is very windy and rain blowing everywhere and chilly... here in NW Ohio... Inside our home, however, it is warm { something I am thankful for.. believe me.} and a traditional pork and sauerkraut is in the oven baking for this evenings meal....
Last year is now in the past and certainly not without it's troubled moments.. It is refreshing to look forward although sometime can be scary with the unknown... The wisdom to enjoy what is given to us however is key to contentment... Sometimes we let those small blessings and moments fly right on by us... I made no New Years resolutions as I am not good at keeping them but I made a promise to myself to enjoy all the small blessings and moments given as they are most of the time the best ones.. the ones that cost us nothing... Not a dime... This is what I want to keep a top and fresh in my thoughts....
Happy New Year... everyone....

A Learning Experience

2011-12-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

We are about to embark on yet another New Year .... a year that will be filled with new learning's and experiences and hopefully filled with many joyous moments.... It is always the unknown ...... I like many of you I am sure have been busy all week placing the holiday decorations once again in storage for another year.... I did leave out a few objects with my theme being winter with snowflakes and icicles for a couple week longer... Thoughts for new vignettes are in mind but not in place... We have plans on dining out tomorrow evening with 2 other couples and then coming back home here to play cards... New Years Eve ... I have never enjoyed being out that much so home is just fine with me...... I just wanted to post a short note to wish you all a happy and safe New Years.... Enjoy....

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T07:21:00.000-08:00

The time has arrived to wish all my friends in the states and other countries a very peaceful and blessed holiday as we celebrate the birth of a baby laying in a manager....... and enjoy and are thankful for family and friends ...... Sending you a sincere .... Merry Christmas .......

Thoughts

2011-12-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

Seems as if every year during the Christmas season my heart tends to turn to marshmallow... gentle thoughts and tears may be shed through the season... as mixed emotions take place... A bit like the divinity I made late afternoon yesterday... With several attitude adjustments being put in place and a promise to myself to stay within a budget of zero dollars when decorating, and a very very small amount on gifts, I am ready for Christmas... Yesterday we went to town , Defiance, to purchase groceries for dishes I will be making for the holiday at the different gatherings... When returning home and having placed items in their proper places I sat for a bit and went into a very deep thought process, so thankful I was home from all the madness at the store... I viewed so very many carts just brimming over with every item you could think of... Again I thought..... IF WE TOOK ALL THE THINGS OR STUFF WE HAVE AWAY THAT WE DO NOT NEED WE WOULD HAVE VERY VERY LITTLE..... Then WHY.... why are ones so determined to fill those carts like that? And most of it will most likely be on a garage sale the following year... Why don't we through wisdom spend less and give more of ones time and self... Delight in family and friends and tie those loose ends we may have created... We attend church services... listen to the teachings and rush right out and do what we have just been told is not important...
Holidays are meant to be spent with family even though many times we feel we do not have anything in common... We may feel as though we would like to run away from our roots but we need to use them as our strength... They hold our key to the future... The riches... for me are the times when things were really tough... but mom would always be there cooking dinner as dad arrived home in the evening... We would sit as a family... many may think we were poor, but you see not me... I had a family... So when remembering how the holidays were and should be with family none is as rich as me...
A family is like a circle..the connection that doesn't end... and certainly does not compare with any item you place in your shopping cart... When making your decision this year I hope all of you make a wonderful one... the gift shared from the heart...
Sending thoughts and best wishes to all as we celebrate the birth of Jesus and the gift of family... May we have the wisdom to enjoy it to the fullest... and have the merriest of Christmas that is offered to us... And just think it doesn't have to be wrapped.....

Celebration

2011-12-20T07:20:00.000-08:00

A dusting of snow over night time hours was lovely to view as I awoke this morning but the morning temps are warming and it is fading....

The month of December is nearly in as we prepare to celebrate the biggest holiday of the year in a few short days... Ready or not... Beauty surrounds us with all the decorating if we allow ourselves to stop and enjoy it... The night before Christmas is a wonderful tradition for most families... I know we will attend mass..

No Christmas seems complete without a angel... Angels represent beauty, purity, kindness, justice, and affection... Hopefully we have many angels that enhance our lives... Christmas represents many different things for all of us... My wish for you today is all your hopes for this special holiday are full filled by family and friends and the celebration of giving of one's heart not necessarily in present form is shared and enjoyed by all... counting those blessings....

Holding On To Memories

2011-12-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

The past couple days have been windy and rainy and gloomy here in NW Ohio. No rain today but a promise of some snowflakes that may be making their journey... As many of you I am sure, yesterday was spent changing bedding.. washing throw rugs... other laundry... and a general house cleaning and cooking... Last evening however was more relaxed in the lazy boy chair and watching holiday movies on TV...
This morning I wrapped a couple gifts for my youngest granddaughter... Have a altered art card to complete later this afternoon... Tomorrow evening Tom's side of his family will have their Christmas gathering at the pavilion in Archbold as they do every year... Coming from a family of 10 children and one of the brother having 10 children you can already so the get together to too large for a small home... Many families will start their gatherings this weekend... I hope it is magical ... After many deep sighs it is time to have the stockings to be hung by the chimney with care... so the old legend can be followed... St. Nicholas ever so many years ago is said to have thrown coins down the chimneys of peasants on Christmas Eve so the the next morning , the poor but good-hearted could find their stocking weighed with gold...
All family traditions are somewhat the same but many do differ.. I do not bake as much as I once did but still love getting out the cookie cutters.. sprinkles and fancy sugars... In fact I need to set out a pound of butter { Paula Deens and my favorite ingredient} for making a couple batches...
Santa doesn't stop at our house anymore to eat his cookies but a visitor is always welcome to share as I believe the home is the place to be for the holiday... Tom and I seem in our minds and hearts to hang on to the way it use to be... but do cherish time spent with family and friends... Years have melted away the gifts of hand-made mittens and gloves and have been replaced with hand held technology that make it close to impossible to carry on a conversation with your grandchildren as a different form of conversation takes place... I have fond memories of long conversation with my grandmother and will hang onto them forever... My wish for you today is you treasure moments that are made when surrounded by family and friends....

Sending Wonderful Wishes

2011-12-14T07:05:00.001-08:00

No snowballs here today as it is mild and rainy in NW Ohio as I prepare to be off to a friends home soon for a get together with a few other ladies to share lunch and some holiday time...
Yesterday was grocery shopping and baking roll out sugar cookies and of course dusting the floor with flour and powered sugar as I do so... Later in the evening I watched Ohio State Girls basketball and a Christmas movie on TV...
Here lately it seems I need to live well and obtain positive thinking, try to smile often and cook much... Through all this I keep in mind one of my favorite thought by Oliver Wendell Holmes....
"Where we love is home. home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts"
Tomorrow and the rest of the weekend will be spent cleaning and controlling clutter, laundry , to baking and altered art... Final touches as we head into the celebration of the birth of Jesus... The real reason for the season...
The wishes of wanting a cheerful home that is warm and welcoming to all that may come and with the desire to live life to its fullest... Comfort and joy comes with being relaxed.. I once remember telling Tom if he got any more relaxed he would be in a coma... That is a lovely way to be as the outside world carry's on its mad run... I refuse to be a part of it...
Sending wonderful wishes as we all prepare to spent time with family and friends and if for some reason that will not happen for you this year... I so hope you find peace and the love of the season...

Scraps

2011-12-12T07:41:00.001-08:00

Yesterday for some reason and it seems to happen every year at least one day of the holiday season I allow myself to be overcome with all the commerical part of Christmas and it causes negative thoughts and sadness and depression... Today as I woke up to a new day I am concentrating on positive and sharing love and laughter .... even if it is created from scraps...

Scraps seem to play a big part in my life... now and through the years... Always trying to make something from nothing... Making a penny try to stretch to a dollar... Creating scrap cards and gifts... Somehow I always make it work... A far cry from watching many others spend hundreds even thousands on Christmas and giving in to the WANTS not the NEEDS... Back on track today I am liking myself much better.... even though in a bit I am going to drop off my prescriptions to be filled and all my extra funds will be gone in one pop... I must realize how fortunate I am to have medication that has extended my life... Sometimes we just forget... So I will search through out the year for wonderful old papers and scraps that can be created into something lovely... and I am very happy surrounded in my scraps when I do not allow the negative in... I do believe the beauty and magic of Christmas is in our thinking... We alone have the power to control... appreciation not comparison....

The picture above is another scrappy project I created this weekend... The base is a very old book cover.... A old songbook page... a image from Dawn ...

http://the-feathered-nest.blogspot.com ... a paper doily.... old cord... rusty litle jingle bell and a old metal...... Will use this for Christmas but can be used in a vignette during the season also...

Changes Through The Years

2011-12-09T10:42:00.000-08:00

Seems like this time of the year creates much more heavy thinking and thoughts of the past... Thinking of times of the past in my life and how surroundings and things themselves have changes... I read a book the other day that says modern day women are overworked, overstressed and commonly unsupported... I am not so sure I totally agree with all of that... I know women that work { I worked all my married and unmarried life} are expected to keep a clean house, make dinner { but I do not see all of that being done} do the laundry.. love and nuture and be pleasing and happy and receptive to their mates... I think ladies of the past did this quite well also... even though they didn't work out their chores were much harder and food much more difficult to prepare without all the conviences we must have now..In most ways the monster has been created for the added stress through all the WANTS and not necessarily NEEDS of the family.. It is truly very hard in these times to hold up and meet all these things we think we need... This is where we must be wise enough to make decisions that will be simplier for ones self and the family as a unit... Taking time and doing what is best for all at the holiday may be worth it... not giving in to a childs every desire and item on a childs list also will truly help them grow.... Everyone needs to learn you are not going to get everyting you think you deserve... it is just reality.... It is very important to deal with reality.... starting from a child through life's journey....
Snow has dusted the ground again earlier this morning and temps are very chilly... Snacked on banana bread I baked yessterday... while sipping coffee... Tom is still working on his fruit cake I baked him and we have eaten all the pecan cresents I baked so they will be made again... I am trying to decide when to do my baking.... I like it fresh baked and we actually enjoy eating it through the weeks of the season... Tom is making shutters for the building he had the Amish build for him a couple weeks ago... He did get the coats of stain on before the temps got so cold... I completed my kids Christmas cards this morning.... Just another simple day here in Ohio... No plans tonight... will most likely watch Christmas movies but carmel popcorn making may have to take place in a bit... Sound delicious for viewing the movies and sitting by the Christmas lights and decorations... It doesn't seem to matter what the age may be .... a movie... carmel popcorn and lovely shimmering Christmas lights and decorations just sounds and feels the way it should be... Now this simple way of living is my blessing......

Sharing

2011-12-08T05:29:00.001-08:00

Dealing with reality... while we may be sitting on top of the world we MUST remember for many this is a very difficult and lonely time ...especially through the holidays... It is a wonderful opportunity to extend a hand of kindness... It can be a simple as a card with hand written words of encouragement and inspiration... a couple of cookies shared with a knock on the ones door... If one doesn't have bulging pockets to purchase his or her desires ... it can be very difficult to the mind and heart... watching others bathe in one's blessings... You see in my mind one is not created equal... This can create and cause much stress to others and we are required as a person to offer acts of kindness to make one's self truly feel good and pure heaven for the one we are showing kindness too... As we travel through this holiday season... take a minute... is there someone you can offer a small token of kindness to or a family that may need encouragement... Please take the time ... please do...
We have had snow on the ground for a couple days but it has started to fade... but the temps remain cold... I sat by the fireplace this morning as I sipped my coffee... Today is cleaning day... the laundry is started and cleaning and some cooking and baking on the schedule... Ham and scalloped potatoes and a salad planned for early supper tonight before we attend the girls basketball game at Tinora... A couple over ripe bananas await being made into banana bread this day also....
As we keep in mind as we travel through the next couple weeks the real reasons we should love this season.... please enjoy and moments and share them with other.... I send each and everyone of you the very best of wishes in hopes this year will be the best ever......

Have Your Own Charm and Style

2011-12-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

Last evening I was anxious to watch HGTV for the Celebrity Homes decorated for the holidays... Did any of you watch this? After viewing... I was left to wonder what the celebrities really thought of their homes decorated by other for the holidays... A few things were striking and designer worthy but all in all I wasn't left just to very impressed with what was really done...
Taking someones home and making it to that person's liking can be a very hard chore and I think in most cases hard to achieve...
I would have to say the decorating for Curt Warner's family home struck me in part the most... I was taken with the silver tree... { although I do not know how she ever got the smell of the silver metallic paint to go away}.... I loved the idea of the chandeliers in the trees... and the lovely very over stated ornaments with the glam ..wow.. factor... Loved the crystals but not the fact of having to walk through them.... Did not care for the colored trees and brightly colored hanging packages .... Struck me as tacky.... would have loved to have seen something flow more together.... The pool area for the most part I did love... Thought the palm tree snowed created from a pine tree looked beautiful and the hanging snowflakes.... very striking... wasn't a fan of the pool not being usable and filled to the brim with balloons.. I guess I would have rather the pool been just touches of snow and sparkle... This could have been created with cut pieces of solar blanket or foam with faux snow or snowflakes... I would want my pool in use.... This is my personal thoughts making me wonder how the owners really felt... I guess having created for others over the years I have always had the feeling it just isn't your own unless you do it.... It is truly hard to create someone else's taste and style.... I think everyone needs to create their own personal charm......Make it yours....no matter how simple or how overstated.....

Memories Of Our Past ...Baking With Grandma

2011-12-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

Last 2 times while trying to post all has been lost.. Will try again today....
Our area suffered heavy rains and flooding the past several days... As I peer from the window this morning it appears to be cold but calmer with sunshine... The overflowing ditches seem to be under control but I don't believe the fields will dry out anymore this winter...

I have shared a couple pics of some inspiration from Jeanne d Ark Christmas magazine this year... Not having exactly the materials I would have chosen first I used just a brown lunch sack glued together and cut from a hand drawn pattern.. Also worked on 4 cards and have them nearly completed...

Seems Tom is insisting on a fruit cake to be baked this year... He has even went so far as to get his mother's family recipe from a sister-in-law ... I have never made a fruit cake and have never wanted to .... How bout all of you? I wrote down the ingredients on my grocery list and they seem to be quite expensive... I looked on line for some in a tin and they are about 30.00... I will give it a try... I just am hoping after all the purchasing it will be good... Hard to bake something that you really don't have your heart into but he wants it so bad I will try... Who knows... it may turn out to be my favorite thing to bake at the holidays... { I am trying this power of positive thinking thing} There is one thing that would worse and that would be anise cookies... Oh no..no... no.... Guess I just care for recipes and loves from childhood and what we were brought up with... Pecan crescents [ Mexican wedding cookies} decorated roll out sugar cookies... gingerbread... fudge and divinity among the favorites with peanut brittle and carmel popcorn added... We do take on past personality and desires through the years... When I think of my favorite times baking it is always thoughts of being in the kitchen with grandma and her soft voice and loving teaching ways..... Sending you best wishes.....

Enjoy Only What Matters

2011-11-27T08:52:00.001-08:00

A old tag for you.....

A picture of a lovely tree from old magazine....

Although I love the Jeanne d Ark style Christmas decorating many of the bloggers are creating I still think the one style that lasts forever in my heart is the lovely old Victorian homes all decked out at Christmas time... The splendor these old girls bring .. Maybe it is just the idea of the holidays at a slower pace that is also so appealing..

According to history the oldest record of a decorated Christmas tree came from a 1605 diary found in Strasburg France... The tree was decorated with paper roses , apples, and candies... Seems everything in the homes for the well to do in the Victorian era was quite extravagant... Guess really those times haven't changed that much... when it comes to the jingle in the pockets..some glistened with the tinsel of gold and silver while others were adorned with the family gathering of stringing popcorn... I love them both... When I think of lavish.. everything on a very celebrate scale I think of the Victorian... The Victorian era began in 1837 and concluded in 1901 according to reading in history... Caroling was a part of their holiday tradition.. Christmas cards were created and ancient pagan customs of using evergreens as Christmas trees was brought back... A Victorian Christmas was very family oriented... Celebrations of faith and thankfulness for blessings through the year ... Ornaments were not mass produced so almost all were some sort of handmade... Appreciating the tree should be encouraged and time taken to do so instead of rushing to open presents and should be practiced to appreciate and bring a wonderful awareness to the holidays..

Through out history there are many customs... The simple candy cane we all love indulging in at the holidays has a lovely legend... J is for Jesus or the Shepard hook and the color { purity and Jesus blood} There are many lovely legends surrounding us too be taught and enjoyed... Lovely traditions are awaiting for you to enjoy as a family instead of all the worry of gift giving creating stress and wishes for all to be over... Take the time and enjoy the true reason that all started this season... it can be truly rewarding in ones lives if you will do so... Let the season be merry and bright as the lovely words.... Enjoy....

Enjoy The Real Reason We Start This Season

2011-11-25T07:05:00.000-08:00

Another sunrise and a windy day in the forecast for us here in NW Ohio...
Today will be spent cleaning some and mopping kitchen where traffic was heavy filled plates and eating the large array of food.... I plan on being kind to myself and work at a slow pace... laundry in started.. beds are made ... leftovers for lunches... plans for attending the Tinora Girls first basketball game of the season this evening .... Next week the boys season will start so we will attending many games for the next couple months...
Food was very plentiful yesterday... The cooking and baking went very smooth but by evening and clean ups all day ... I was all in... just like most of you I am sure....
Many Christmas trees will go in place today and this weekend to start the holiday... well that is if you aren't one of those " out of your mind" black Friday shoppers... I checked Facebook this morning and many had comments about being out there and just plain giving up and coming home... The best choice is to stay home... enjoy what you have already and you all know I love when people use what they have and just be creative... Addictions for what you love can be so very easily tucked in with touches of Christmas and made all your own... going beyond evergreen boughs and red bows... Cherished antiques and vintage makes a house feel warm and well loved... Glitz and glam are lovely but I prefer just little touches of that and touches of cozy.. It is just the right stuff to capture the spirit of the season.. With my background in design for myself this shows off your personality....
Hope if you are making your home lovely and welcoming for others you take lots of pics and share... whatever you may be doing... enjoy... the process and the right reason for the season in your hearts.....

Days Filled With Blessings

2011-11-23T07:50:00.000-08:00

Received rains yesterday and over night but sun is shining this morning..as yards and fields are overflowing with water...
In my home today... laundry is being done... light house cleaning again... some dishes are being started for tomorrows Thanksgiving celebration...
Last night as I lay in bed with the rain beating hard against my bedroom window... I was filled with emotion as I was so very thankful to have a warm shelter and warm bed ... well knowing that there are many that will not... I couldn't help but take that time to offer up Thanks to God for this what we call a small blessing but when you think of it ... it is such a large blessing... I thought of ones that would not be having the 250.00 worth of food we will be feasting upon and it brought sadness... Oh the blessings we call small. Tom and I's families will be here as one big unit... although I get overwhelmed by it all and very tired by the end of the day.... I know I am very blessed... Whatever plans you may have... with family or otherwise... enjoy and take moments to be thankful...
Many bogging friends are not celebrating our American holiday tradition of Thanksgiving but to them I would say take minutes to be thankful with all the wonderful that surrounds you as we shouldn't have to have a holiday to do this... Sending best of wishes and happiness and blessings to all... Happy Thanksgiving.....

Ushering In The Holidays

2011-11-21T06:44:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving week is upon us ..ready or not.. here it comes...

Some holiday events have started taking place... I attended one Saturday afternoon with several friends.. the event was very enjoyable.. it was held in conjunction with the Festival Of The Trees, held at the Eagles in Defiance, Ohio.. I snapped a couple pictures that the tables were created and made ready by the hostesses of the table you are seated at. They had 3 servings of tea and finger foods.. First were scones... second finger sandwiches... third being sweets... It was served by Defiance students... All was very delicious...

My very favorite table was the BLACK... It was done with a Gibson girl theme and very striking... My second favorite was the candy canes tables... So full of eye candy... A picture of several friends in attendance.... Kay came in vintage style and wore a lovely vintage black hat that she looked very sweet in... It was a great vintage hat.... A very nice time was enjoyed by all of us... Many people placed allot of time and energy in this event.... Great job.

I spent a couple days and evening last week creating cards of altered art for several friends I will be attending another Christmas event with... Many hours can be spend working on these types of presentations...

Once again I find myself needing to be off to my maid job and get some cleaning and making ready for Thanksgiving.... Sometimes I wonder how two people can create so much dust.... There is much to do as tomorrow morning is planned to go purchased groceries... my dreaded job but I will smile and be thankful we have the money to purchase whatever we desire and share with about 20 people..... Never quite know if a extra face will attend or not... I do not have a space for everyone to sit at a table together ... therefore the food is out on the island and counter and the free for all begins.... It works and there is always plenty for all.....

I am sure many of you are feeling just some of the pressure that starts to happen at the holidays... I am going to just try to keep good thoughts and thankfulness in mind and keep working in short periods till I am successful at completing what will need to be done... Keeping a happy heart ... the body may not be as happy but I will try to be kind to it.... Last evening I was very kind and watched two back to back movies on the Hallmark channel... "A Dog Named Christmas" and " The Christmas Wish".... Both were the kind that makes you heart all mushy....

French Inspired Passion

2011-11-18T04:49:00.001-08:00

I think the time has arrived to start turning on the Christmas lights in the evening as we are entering the season... Time for ambiance...

I have been admiring the lovely and creative altered art of Rhonda at http://alittlebitfrench.blogspot.com and placed a small order with her for a treat for myself and to use for inspiration .... Yesterday when my package arrived here,, the presentation of her work was wrapped to perfection and I salvaged every little speck of it I could for further use in projects... Rhonda has a unique style that is all hers... I love creating myself but having some works of another on hand to view and love is always refreshing... Rhonda has used many bits and pieces in her art in a very creative style...

I have shared some pictures of the little treats... created wit French inspired passion....

Morning Musings

2011-11-17T06:28:00.000-08:00

Little tucks of Christmas around my home.....

Looking out my front bay picture window I am watching 3 deer making their way across the neighbors shelled corn field ... The sun is just making it's appearance, making it a chilly feel but lovely picture of nature at it's best in this part of Ohio... and as we enter the very wonderful week of Thanksgiving.... Now if I could just find someone else that would love making Thanksgiving Dinner... hum, at what age do you say it is someone else turn... Seems like at the age of 70 nearing 71 that event should be happening soon... This young chick seems to run out of batteries unlike the little energized bunny... Tom is off to Indy to visit his son Todd and the family for a couple days... He was up at 4:30 a.m. getting ready to leave and of course you know who else got woke up..
ggrrrrrr.....

As soon as I post a few words I am off to clean house.. Hopefully this afternoon I can spend some time completing some angel wings and a card enclosure I have been working on for some friends... Ya all know the holidays are upon us now, right? I always try with a early start but somehow it always catches up.. then we get to the stage where we are not calm anymore...

As I continue to try to obtain Timeless Vintage, the love of yesterday, combined with today that will last forever on a shoe string budget....I am trying to stay on track and think I have done quite well... Do I see things I would love to have.... you bet I do... but then remember they are only things... no matter how lovely they are to the eye... I need to stay on track so I can have all the pecans for holiday baking and yes even peanut butter that sounds like they are to be a luxury item... Seems many items have become a luxury...

Well, I must get myself motivated and accomplish half the cleaning today... I think being waken so early and up for coffee at 6:00 a.m. has not helped my motivation....

Christmas Heaven On Pages

2011-11-15T06:53:00.001-08:00

Christmas heaven arrived on pages... of course I am speaking of my Christmas issue of Jeanne d Ark Magazine... They call it a magazine but with the price and the lovely inspiration I consider it a book to cherish and have no plans of ridding of the ones I have...
They state they are brimming with creative and fun ideas and that is " Oh so true".. and filled with traditions, expectations, happiness, and togetherness.. The simplicity of some of the rooms are hard for me to achieve cause I just plain and simple have too much stuff... but I sure love the look... When I find inspiration from here I usually create and tuck one more thing in with my house family of things.... Seems like every page just melts my heart ... I would like to attempt to make a few little objects from inspiration from the book yet this week... Some will not go with my theme this year of snow... snowflakes and icicles and sparkle.... but I always make some very small gifts for 5 or 6 friends or so and these will be perfect....
Yesterday at 6:00 a.m. a crew pulled in with the pieces of a small building Tom has wanted for several years now and finally ordered... This building is Amish built and was put together on site as it was too large to transport placed together.... I have place a picture of it on my Face book if you would like to check it out... We received very heavy rains in the afternoon so we didn't get things cleaned up around it as of yet... The wood is from the privacy fence that a portion was removed to place the building ...which now acts as privacy... There are a few projects I want to do in the spring to finish the pool area ... they weren't completed as the pool wasn't built till late fall and closed immediately due to the trees disposing of their leaves... I will hold those thought as I have to travel through a long winter season before this can take place...
I hope you are all searching for inspiration for your Christmas gift giving and decorating as bloggers and sites and magazines have a world of possibilities awaiting and many suited for myself and my shoestring budget....
PS. the pic is of angel wings that was created with drawing free hand and old book song pages and junk from stash for altered art creating...

Thrifty Chic

2011-11-11T07:12:00.000-08:00

Had our first dusting of snow through the night as we slept.... Signs were still there as I awoke and sipped coffee and enjoyed a peaceful time..
My it seems the word " THRIFT " has become a household staple in many of our homes here in blog land... It has actually become very fashionable... Re-use and re-purpose... and most of the time we love the results and are able to be the envy of a one of a kind object... Making it yours... Fabric such as grain sacks seem to have hit the top of the charts... and it one of my most favorite... They are a great element of design as they are wonderful with prims and luscious with glam... Never thought a grain sack covered piece of furniture or lovely pillows would appeal so much when combined with a crystal chandelier... but I love the combination... It is just pure eye candy... Vintage mirrors of all shapes and sizes are also readily found at thrift stores and make lovely additions to ones homes... They have the ability to be hung...set or flanked and can add a ton of charm and warmth.. If you don't want the gold that so many are found in that state a simple application of paint may be applied...
Your front door is always a first impression, so I always suggest a wreath or some similar way of welcoming be added to say " come on in". Although we have been warned against not always accepting first impressions I have found them most aways to be right...
Most of us do not get the opportunity to start from scratch .. so many of the times we marry things together to obtain the desired charm we love but sometimes as in real everyday life somethings need to be divorced.
I believe retro to be my least favorite when it comes to a form of vintage decorating... I find it hard to achieve to be appealing... I love vintage but many older in years and a touch more country style... It all works to me however if it is a reflection of one's personality... If you find you can't afford many luxury items it is still no reason why you cannot be a " Thrifty Chic " and create your personal style and make a cozy retreat...

Values

2011-11-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday strong winds terrorized our area.. Today still chilly and windy but the sun is shinning.. We were suppose to be on our way to Indy this morning but plans didn't work out so I am home doing my daily chores instead.. Laundry started... beds made.. and morning coffee completed.. I just pulled a nice large beef roast from the freezer and will prepare it and place it in the oven early afternoon.. with carrots and potatoes to simmer all afternoon...
Last evening watching the TV and the news reports.. I found to be very troubling and decided I needed to distance myself from them for several days... The events of Penn State are dis- hearting.. along with many more.. I guess the media will be leaving Ohio State alone for awhile...Wish we could relay to the students however that rioting sure is not a answer.. can only cause injury and further problems... So fearful for the safety of others... Hope all will mend itself over time and more caring for one another can be shown... I think that is the reason I am so content just to be on our little amount of acres in the country.. on a peaceful setting.. It is always important to try to remember the good and bathe in it.. The simple blessings and value of living a clean life and slow respect to others. Back to the values of the past we were taught... especially as we enter into the holiday season.. it is always important to remember that the price of the present isn't nearly as important as the thought placed into it.. The quality of time spent.. you can't place a price tag on that... Maybe it would be a lovely gift is this year one would give a gift of more of one's self... Time with others... Why not place this a top of our to do list... #1 spend quality time with others and making this a present...
As most of you will be entering into a time of decorating your homes and making them warm and inviting for family and friends.. As my readers know I was on a zero dollar decorating theme this year... If you truly become somewhat creative and just freshen things up and use them in a different manner than the past it is not the hard to do... Actually it can be quite astonishing.. wonderful and personal... Don't forget to use vintage mirrors as a base when placing together vignettes atop them.. The extra sparkle and reflection and charm is amazing...
Sending best wishes to you as you travel through this day.....

Need Not Want

2011-11-07T06:45:00.000-08:00

The love of vintage... Pic from Country Living....

No awakening to sunshine this morning as it is very grey and over-cast.. a complete change from the day offered up by Mother Nature yesterday, with warming temps and gentle breezes blowing leaves ... It does seem like the calm before the storm that we know is just around the corner here in Ohio...

Yesterday Tom and I traveled to Toledo to the Notre Dame academy ...visiting and attending a benefit held there by the Sisters... Women helping Women... Tom's 2 sisters and a aunt are there...

Saturday I watched the Ohio State football game and started a project of cutting and sewing together 3 pair of the mittens, larger, but very similar to the ones I made and added to the little antique stove in the previous post... Making use of the materials I have here at home these will be used as a gift and holders for Tom's grandchildren money cards... I have to stuff... add crinkle ribbon.. embellish with junk jewelry or buttons... glitter so they can be used as a decorating after removal of the money cards...

I would like to add a couple tags and a couple sprigs of evergreen in a couple areas but for the most part my decorating is completed for this years season... I haven't been burning the lights in the evenings as of yet but think I will start this week... after the work and it really isn't that far away till Christmas and the day of Thanksgiving... so time to enjoy...

I watched my first Christmas movie for this year on the Hallmark channel last evening and enjoyed it very much... The Christmas movies always seem to warm my thoughts and my heart... I may have seen the movie the year before but still love to view again... Some times it is good to be reminded of the way we want things to be and not let our self fall into the commercial parts that accompany this time of year... Knowing the real difference between our WANTS and our NEEDS... The lesson of the difference should be practiced and taught all year but is especially important as we enter the season...

As many of you I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my Jeanne d Ark Christmas magazine... It will mean a afternoon of curling up in a comfy spot and soaking in all the inspiration as it is always very beautiful....

I must be off now to do some Monday chores as the first load of laundry is dried and ready for folding... I must however have a sampling of the home-made pecan roll made by the sisters and offered at the bake sale yesterday... The sweetness will help create energy to complete the chores... Enjoy your day and hope it is filled with blessings and the wisdom to realize it.....

Forever In Our Hearts

2011-11-04T11:01:00.001-07:00

Got out and about for a short time this morning as Mother Nature has been kind and given us a day of sunshine... Our corn field that is beside our home is being harvested as I post making Tom happy to see the shelling taking place... I had some letters and a package of paper dolls for a blogging friend to be placed in the mail this morning so I headed north to the small town of Pettisville.. There is a small post office ... a great meat market { I stopped and purchased some meat for the freezer} and a sweet little flower and gift shoppe owned by a acquaintance that was having a open house for Christmas so I stopped by.... The name of the shoppe is Weeping Willow and I thought it was very lovely as she offered more pretty that what she had in other years as the offerings were more Country in years past... I noticed the tags and many offerings were from wholesalers I had purchased for my shoppe in past years so it was interesting to see the different wholesalers and the lovely items... Years come and go but it is always wonderful to view lovely and beautiful that add a touch of glam... Making it ours and loved makes it perfect....

"WHERE WE LOVE IS HOME, HOME THAT OUR FEET MAY LEAVE, BUT NOT OUR HEARTS" Oliver Wendell Holmes

The pics on the post today are little objects of interest scattered around my home... Punch bowls of snowballs and snowflakes and snow and and glitter ..... The little stove in my eyes needed a little more ... so I had this woolly felt from another project a couple years ago .. so I free handed a mitten pattern and cut out and hand sewed together the little mittens... glitter and a junk pair of vintage clip earrings were added for the touch of glam....

Musings

2011-11-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

Idea and picture fromhttp://www.countryliving.com

I found this sweet idea on the Country Living website and thought it would be clever for Thanksgiving with the menu and a name card but also very sweet for Christmas decorating... I can see some old book pages and a old photo made into a altered art piece... The foundation is a scalloped cardboard cake mat.... These can be easily found...
The sunshine has left the area and the threat of rain is here... Today I spend most of cleaning the nest , laundry and cooking it seems... This morning while doing chores I placed a kettle of homemade ham,beans, and chunked potatoes on to simmer as cornbread baked in the oven for our lunch at noon.. Just before I sat down to post I prepared a small meat loaf to go into the oven in about a half an hour and have some potatoes baked for cutting up to make fried potatoes and harvard beets ready for warming... also a apple waldorf salad has been made with honey crisp apples and placed in to chill.... After supper I feel the need to just relax and cuddle up and watch some TV....as my body is telling me that is what I should do....
Have you been thinking of your finery for the holidays and how you will be using it to decorate this year? I noticed that many of you other bloggers have also been creating and making ready for the holidays with your talents... Candles need to be included at the holidays... the gentle flickering and the aroma of the scented candles are luscious... The allure of the sight of staggered and varying styles of candlesticks and tapers are always a touch of glam... With the chill of the nights getting upon us I think the candles will be making a appearance in my home soon... I am off to place the meat loaf in the oven and sending you best wishes and blessings for a peaceful and relaxing evening....

In Door and Outdoor Charm

2011-11-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

Pic from http://www.countryliving.com

Another sunshine day here in N.W. Ohio with the forecast calling for rain again tomorrow.. I so pray that the rain doesn't take place so the harvest of the fields can resume...
I just came in this morning from completing a few chores outdoor... Hung a couple small wreaths on the porch posts and a few ornament on the 3 foot lighted tree I placed in the antique buggy that sets as you enter to the front door of our home.. I have spent very little money on outdoor decorating over the years... I love to view decorated homes from the outside that have been decorated tastefully but do not care for the carnivals in the front yards.. I love seeing something as simple as the indoor candles perched in the windows casting their soft light and welcoming one to come in...I just love the charm of soft and lovely... Everyone however has their own way of decking the halls... Some love whimsical and some love beautiful.. It is all about the family coming and gathering from all directions that matters the most... I love the thought of coming to grandmas house when I was young.. Although there was never a bunch of presents in our family- there was the greatest gift of all.. being together...
Don't you just love the inspiration of working flea market finds in with your holiday and marrying all your collected objects ... in imaginative and unexpected ways.. Bowls of baubles always work for me..
Tom has been working equally as hard out of doors as he makes ready for the Amish workers to come and construct a new building 16' x 24' for the storage of mowers and outdoor equipment... He has been digging and leveling making ready for stone to be hauled in before the builders come.. This new building will be out by the new pool we put in this fall... The existing shed will then hold all the pool equipment and the gas grill ect... He has wanted this for several years and since we are not getting any younger we thought now is the time... We will be able to be much more organized and have flow in the garage that is now taken up with equipment.. Refreshing the outside is just as important as refreshing the indoors when it comes to welcoming friends and family... Wishing a lovely day to all...

The Allure Of Twinkling Lights and Sparkle

2011-11-01T06:53:00.001-07:00

Pic from Victoria site...

Although almost all my white twinkling Christmas lights are in place I am not turning them on as of yet... I usually wait till about the second week of November to flip the switch and set the mood for the coming holidays.. I just mainly love the thought that all the work has been completed... I am shortly going to go our of doors and add a few tucks of Christmas... I do not decorate that much out side... A couple wreaths can usually weather the elements well through the couple months but much more just takes a lashing...
As less is considered more in traditional decorating I am not a traditional style gal.. and tend to love the all that glitters style when it comes to the holidays... I also love the sight of lovely ribbons and old images.... Oh actually just any piece of fanciful for the eye will attract my interest...
For those of you that purchase or subscribe to the Victoria magazine I Just feel in love with pages 58 and 59. Thought the old newpaper fashioned into upside down trees and used on the sheves was sweet and the old wash stand and tubs serving as a sink... Way too clever....
The sun is melting the early morning frost and encouraging me to get a crackin with the outdoor chores awaiting me... Need to aborb some of that precious sunshine and add energy to the body... The trees are becoming skeltons as all the droppings are awaiting removal before the arrival of snow.... Enjoy the day God gave to us...

Allowing Time For Reflection

2011-10-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

I so enjoyed the post on http://sweetpeahome.blogspot.com on a crafter afternoon... If you haven't viewed it and read it please do yourself a favor and stop over and see the lovely home and style and ideas of her friend Becky... I really found it to be quite creative...

The above pics are of my little serving table that I will have a candy bar set up now until Christmas for treats... The other pic is of my loved, antique 1800's pie safe tucked with a couple Christmas objects brought out from storage...

Has been a rainy day till now about 3:00 in the afternoon as the sun is trying to sine... We are so far behind with the harvest here in NW Ohio... Getting to be quite a challenging to area farmers and very stressful.. Our winter wheat did not get put out... This is not only hurting us it hurts the consumers as the price is paid by all when Mother Nature is in here bad mood and carries on for weeks at a time...

I have been choosing to send my thoughts as much as possible to making a lovely budget friendly style of decorating and taking off the chill with a lovely fireside setting... There is a grace to having bounty surrounding with the splendor of decorating and the warmth and pleasure of nourishment... Taking and allowing time for reflection of the beauty that surrounds is and the time for Thanksgiving is nearing... I must be off as I have a chocolate cake in the oven and the aroma of it is telling me I must make my way to the kitchen for removal very soon... Sending blessings...

Oh So Lovely

2011-10-27T07:48:00.001-07:00

As rain in our area continues to damper the harvest of the farmers.. I continue the holiday decorating of my home... As I try to simplify... In a short couple days as we will be entering into the month of Thanksgiving... plans will start for that holiday without the stress of decorating for myself... Loving that thought and always fresh in mind.. home and holiday.. I know many do not share those thoughts and I believe mine to be encouraged by always having to have a retail floral and gift shoppe ready for open house by the first week of November to be competitive in the retail market... Holidays inspire creativity with those who possess many talents.. Planning menus and decorating ahead does make all come together much more smoothly... I find I am always easily impressed by the lovely style and projects of many talented bloggers that are not necessary designer... just have great style and energy.. I shared some lovely pictures of Christmas on my Facebook page if you would like to see them click under my Facebook and enjoy... The site is of pictures of Christmas at its best is Touch Of Elegance Interiors.... Sending special wishes your way today....

A Bit Of Sunshine

2011-10-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

As I continue with more decorating and everyday chores this morning the sun is making a appearance after very early morning storms and showers.... My quest for zero dollar decorating and to be very simple as I have shown you in the above pics will be taking place yet the next few days... I have a picture of my 5 window bay window in my living room that has a small white tree tucked in a aged silver trophy urn...White Christmas lights have been tucked under lace for a touch of romance.... and everyday treasures still on display... The other picture is of a ledge that is my small entry to my home... Again just tucks of winter has been added with everyday treasures... Snowflakes appear in all the areas thus far....

I am lacking any more white or cream that I had in storage and the whole idea was to simplify and not use as much so I will be trying to come up with something for my kitchen window today..... I found a few icicles that I may use but they aren't as large as I would like but maybe I can make them work .... Sometimes I have to resort to plan 2 however...

As the house is getting dressed for the winter and holiday season so comes the thoughts of opening the home up to family and friends.... I love the shimmer of glittered objects and the light bouncing from them.... Yesterday... I cleaned off a little serving table that I have in my dining area with the desire of making it a candy bar from now on till Christmas... Halloween candy for the week.... nuts and goodies for everyday and Thanksgiving and of course Christmas... I have a idea in mind but it is a work in progress yet... What I would desire would be to purchase a couple more lovey jars but I am not going to do that... so I may use a couple canning jars with some tags or similar... I will work it out and just make it work....

As I sit by my large living room window I hear the bouncing of wagons and grains being hauled to the elevators that some of the farmers were able to get in the fields and maybe shouldn't been this weekend as we received more showers...As you can view in the picture of the window edge the leaves are congregating on the ground outside... I will take down my fall decorating from the front porch as soon as they have a chance to dry out the next couple days... Looks a bit odd to see Winter in the window and Halloween and fall out of doors.... Hope all enjoyed a weekend with family and friends and this week brings contentment and joy... To be continued.....

I Am Starting...... Christmas

2011-10-21T07:25:00.001-07:00

Having been confined to my home the whole week and in a motel room much of the time last week.... I decided I really needed something to do...sooooooooooooooooo... I have started my Christmas decorating... I usually start the last week in October.. I am really only a few days ahead of that and I will take my time and since I am in LOVELY SIMPLE mode this year the small slim tree should go up about the first week of November... This morning so far I have completed a lovely antique cut glass bowl with a stand and filled it with snow and mica and sparkle snowflakes and crinkle ribbon of white and a old piece of crochet linen and lace all tucked in with a rhinestone shoe clip... Also I have completed my smaller chandelier in the dining space with a smaller version of the above picture that was taken from Southern Living site.... For those who follow me I had stated in earlier posts I wanted it all to be very simple with snow... sparkle added.. snowflakes and snowballs and icicles...... and some glittered bottle brush vintage trees in my glass cloches.. I am putting it all together in my mind with objects I already have with the exception of the snowflakes I purchased a month or so ago for under 20.00... I plan on spending no more than that to complete this years decorating and going to call on my ability to be at my best when I have to be very creative and work with what I have.... My only thought is to make it different and not to use any of the lovely pink objects I have used the last couple years but make all in white and creme.... Off I go to complete a small area in my entry way of my home as I brought a couple small white trees for this area from storage......

For Simple Pleasures

2011-10-20T06:50:00.001-07:00

For Simple Pleasures.... lovely words and isn't that always our desire? The dream of the prettiest holiday... Not for the room filled with expensive presents but the room filled with family and friends... loved ones to share nourishment of body and mind..

Comfort and joy always begins at home... and my style with tastes from the past.. It is all in the detail and adding embellishment to accomplish the swanky touch of glam... With a designer background I was never wanting to go in and do my style in someone else's home.. I believe it to be so very important for a home to say this home belongs to......... with the touches of what the people that reside there love and have passion for... That thought didn't always work however as many didn't really know and that was very hard to accomplish something you saw fitting for them... For instance if you love to quilt or crochet... I love to see that setting in a basket or large bowl in the room you enjoy creating... Displays of favorites, if it be antique.. vintage... or traditional in colors soothing to you will display your personality... Older homes seem to want to add newer and newer homes seem to want to add older to blend the charm that bring that " at home" feeling... perfect touches of gracious....

In the pics above found on the Southern Living site.... I found to be very lovely and the use of compotes or stemware that most all of us have already available in our home... A very budget friendly idea... The votive candle and a clip on ornament of choice can add a very festive and charming look.... Also could be used as elevation with different size stemware in other vignettes for your holiday enjoyment... Once again who says that it has to be expensive to be very lovely...

Oh NUTS

2011-10-19T08:31:00.001-07:00

Home-made beef noodle soup simmering on the range for lunch in a bit as I am thinking I will not be leaving the confines of my home today as the winds...chills... and rain are heavy in our area ...

Tomorrow is cleaning day, so today I thought I would curl up under a throw and seek out inspiration for holiday decorating that can be completed with zero dollars or at a low cost... My inspiration to share with you today has some cost of the mixed nuts or desired goodies to scatter but it can also be nourishment... A wonderful extra.... I found this lovely idea that can be accomplished in a very simple manner on the Southern Living site... The picture I shared with you has shown votive glass holders but I do not have that many so I am thinking my small jelly jars would accomplish it more in my style.... The simple addition of some leaves or berries would be lovely for fall or Thanksgiving and the addition of a nut cracker can made it a editable arrangement...

Using the imagination this would also be sweet made the same way with wrapped hard candies and pine.. or the pine and buts for Christmas... If you would love some sparkle I think la long mirror as a base would add some glam... Letting you thoughts create.... what would you do????

The Time Has Arrived....

2011-10-18T06:20:00.001-07:00

Good Morning... Please come sit a spell and enjoy a piece of the sweet Halloween cake and a cup of mulled cider as I share some creative stenciled pumpkin decorating ideas with you that I viewed on the Better Homes and Garden site...

The times has arrived ... for harvest from morning to setting sun... It's time to count our blessings one by one... As our days shorten and nights become long... The leaves are making the journey to the ground... The apples are for picking all around... Pumpkins are making their appearance as they are plucked from the fields... We must be aware and enjoy the blessings ever so dear...

PS.. I also wanted to share with you that don't follow on Face book that I now am viewing TV on a 43 inch plasma that Tom won at the PLAYERS CLUB Saturday night when we went to play some games for a couple hours.... Very nice gift to be blessed with... and to be home and enjoy it is the biggest comfort of all...

Back Home

2011-10-15T09:26:00.001-07:00

Back home in my little nest in the country and oh, so glad to be here... Today may be chilly and very windy but I am tucked in and enjoying it. Have a kettle of home-made potato soup on the stove simmering and just added the rivals and made some fruit jello for lunch this evening and a cherry pie... With all the rich and eating food on vacation that you normally do not intake everyday when cooking at home I am just having a desire for something very comforting ..... Yesterday,on our journey home we were whipped around by strong winds through the mountains and today it followed us here to Ohio... All I can think or say is "HOME SWEET HOME"...

The sounds of wagons bumping as they travel down the road and the roars of combines can be heard today as the farmers have taken to the fields to harvest their crops... As we traveled home some tobacco could be seen in the sheds and barns and some still in the fields and also the cotton... some harvested some not... as well as soy beans and corn as we have in this area...

Next week after resting this weekend and trying to regroup I will be thinking of some Christmas inspiration and possibly creating a few some items for decorating... I have already stated it will be a simple form of lovely this year... with a small change up...

I wanted to post a short post today and wish you all many blessings and a nice weekend... Hopefully I can be more inspirational and creative as the week starts .....

Rain..Rain...Please Go Away

2011-10-11T05:28:00.000-07:00

Fresh From The Oven

2011-10-04T09:33:00.001-07:00

It is noon and we are having a lovely day here in Ohio... The sun is shinning , oh so lovely, and the trees are in a calm stage as some of the fall harvest of soy beans are ready and waiting for the rain soaked fields to dry out allowing the iron giants to arrive and harvest the yields...

At my home today a large kettle of rice soup is simmering on low for nourishment in a bit and a home-made scratch coconut creme pie was just taken from the oven moments ago... I am on a mission this week to use all the groceries that are perishable before we spread our wings and take flight to Myrtle Beach this weekend... I always have mixed emotions about leaving but our home will be looked after... It will be our last chance to swim and take on views of the ocean before coming home again and settling in for our winter months... At this time the forecast looks great for this week and next...

When arriving home I know my thoughts and wishes will wonder and start making my home a sweet welcome to visitors, friends and family as the holiday will be another week closer and soon all will be dashing through the snow... The most important thing to me is for our nest to be a restful retreat.. To allow yourself to have this you must part with things that are causing you stress.in order to be a feel good place.. Filling our lives with sweet and wonderful traditions is a wonderful way to go.. Turning our kitchens into grandma's kitchen with aromas of gingerbread's and sugar cookies makes every one's heart dance.. Today my kitchen is all mine as I am grandma and have lovingly prepared the soup and baked the pie to fill the house with scented pleasures and the tummy with yummy delight... Seems my small pleasures I enjoy the most have been around and travel back in time making it pleasing but keeping up with the modern days with the new and modern is also rewarding... I spend many hours, searching, reading, and writing, on my beloved computer also... so I am not totally in the past.. just making choices that bring me contentment and warmth... Old but improved works quite nicely at our little home in the country... Hope you enjoy your day and it is as lovely as it is here....

Spending Time In Our Home

2011-10-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

Entering the time to bundle up and a time for many more hours to be spend in the confines of our homes.. With these times comes thoughts of making "spirits bright".. I have chosen to spend my thoughts and efforts on focusing on "SIMPLE PLEASURES"... consisting of beautiful thoughts and making our everyday living more enjoyable...
A twinkle of time and our main holidays will be upon us... with the thoughts of snow kissed Christmas in mind for us here in Ohio.. Creative efforts of romancing the rooms and inspiration is being sought... Sparkle of plenty always set a mood and creates lovely eye candy when married together in harmony... Christmas is the one magical time of the year that is fun but lovely to dress our homes to empress.. All that glitters does not have to be gold.. Love of the sparkle of mica and glitters houses, snowmen, snowballs, snowflakes, and bottle brush trees of the past all come to mind... Many with higher end homes and decorations may love the traditional gold leafing of which can be stunning but for me it is the love of times past that wins my heart... Fall decorations are also lovely when adding a touch of glam especially if your decor is more modern.. For country and most homes however the as found fall berries... leaves.... pumpkins and gourds are best used natural...
We may find inspiration from sources but it always much sweeter when we place on our stamp on the inspiration.. What makes fall and winter holidays so enduring? Of course the love of tradition , so why not use some of the old traditional objects with the old charm and appeal but the addition of somethings unexpected for dressing up our homes for the holidays and winter season... Home is a place you should always have a desire to get back too when you are away as the charm and " SIMPLE PLEASURES" await you there with sweet traditions and small touches.....

Afternoon Thoughts

2011-09-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Morning and early afternoon spent tidying up our little nest we call home.. Air is still damp and chilly with not a speck of sunshine to be found....

This evening we will be going to play cards and have snacks with 2 other couples we will be going to Myrtle Beach with... As the rains continued yesterday { another 1 1/2"} so does our seeded grass continue to break through and show color... As the air seems to become cooler everyday, my thoughts of nesting become much stronger.. Making some changes here and there on a zero dollar budget remain strong in my thoughts... As we enter the darker time desires for attention of warmth and comfort are here also.. It always seems after traveling the journey of summer and much of our time and energy is spent out of doors our nests need some fluffing.. Although our temps are chilly there is something to say about the turning of leaves and sprouting of plumes before our eyes from ornamental grasses and our feet rustle through the leaves that have made their final journey to the ground...

I spent some time in the rec. room Tuesday night creating a piece of altered art from a very old book cover.... This was made to sit atop the fireplace mantle come the last week of October as I start to decorate my home for the holidays... This simple little creation will accent the antique and vintage rhinestone brooch bottle brush tree I made to be enclosed in the glass cloche that sits on my mantle also... The sparkle of snow and snowflakes will be added also... I have also added the old post card picture if you happen to love her as much as I do and would like to use it.... I will also be making a tag with the full post card and not just a cut out.....

The afternoon has become later and I must think of freshening up soon and we are going to go to "The Station" a local bar/restaurant in Defiance for tonight's special of a burger and hand cut french fries for 1.99... before we go to play cards... Hope you have a pleasant evening also....

Everyday Musings

2011-09-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

The countryside is continuing it change and we are heading into our winter season as fall continues to strut it's stuff... As I look out the large picture window this moment the skies are very grey and the tree branches are swaying from the winds as it appears rain may be nearing ....

I have noticed on a few blogs the time has come for the setting of shoppes for the Christmas magical season to begin... This season for me is a frame of mind... As I have stated in the past.. Tom and I do not allow ourselves to give in to the tromping the streets and shoppes for buying and gift giving... We love sharing our time and home and nourishment with other friends and family but find the gift giving not to be necessary and relay that to our families... A gift of ones self is so very important to us...

Yesterday and today was and will be spent working through the back bedroom where I had the items for the sale stored for over a year... As I am cleaning I have found some more objects that were meant to be placed on the sale and it means once again a couple storage boxes will be needed... I do have to make a much better effort of identify what is in these boxes however for further use... as I can bring them out and use them for a change instead of the old saying " out of sight .. out of mind"....

MY fireplace mantle has been changes for a month or so of viewing and I have used the base I will also be using for Christmas decorating... The addition of ice branches and the changing of the glass cloche and I have a altered art piece locked in my thoughts I would like to create for this area.... I am anxious to start this piece as time is needed for just some relaxing... to me creating is total relaxing...and inspirational...

The sweet little carved pumpkin supporting a vintage button and crinkle ribbon was found yesterday in a unmarked bag while in the back room cleaning... Now it has found a home on the dining area table for a couple weeks... till the winter season takes top billing... I have been thinking of the gentle moments of the magical season that will soon be upon us... I am looking forward to taking the minutes and hours for making this season special but very very simple this year...snowflakes... snow... sparkle... and bottle brush trees... will be the theme... Most everything will remain in the storage boxes this season...

About 10 days or so will be spent away from home the first part of this coming month of October as Tom and I will be traveling and meeting up with 3 other couples from Defiance as we all travel to Myrle Beach... We will all be staying in separate condos at a resort there... We found this to be the best sort of vacation as we can do many things together but also just nothing if desires... Course the guys will be filling their desires with golf ... For myself I am just in total happiness just using the swimming and hot tub areas with a good book or my Ipad in hand... We are also ocean front as many hours will be spent just watching the waves come banging in... Maybe walking the beach and collecting some shells that could be placed out in the landscaping just completed by the new pool would make some nice memories also... { ps... we have been fortunate enough to receive some nice rains that have encouraged the grass seeding to peep and start to set a nice green foundation...}

I wanted to mention also that I have been having trouble being able to leave some comment on some of my favorite blogs... I am still reading and enjoying every moment spent there I just can't relay those thought... KIM ... you and KRAMER are one of the blogs I have not been able to connect with... Hope I can find a cure soon....

I must make a exist now and head toward that back bedroom and strip the bed and wash all the bedding.... and think of what will be nourishment for supper as lunch will be covered with a kettle of home-made chili that simmered all afternoon yesterday....

Sending out best wishes and I am feeling much better from the fall as the OUCH is getting much milder as the days pass. What a blessing.....

A Charming Place To Dwell

2011-09-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Seems so long since I have had a chance to post or follow blogs I love and it in reality has only been a few days.. I am so ready to get back to my everyday simpler life.. The sale is over and was successful and the pool cover has been anchored and stretched and covered till next spring...
Thursday evening after the sale Tom and I rode to Defiance to catch a a bite to eat and upon returning home I misfooted and fell when getting out of the car right into my garden space in front of the house into a rock and buried plate in the garden area.. Needless to say I am bruised and sore but nothing broken... Geez, I don't like falls...I plan on making some small changes in the house this next week when I am not moving as gingerly... I will take a look at my objects I choose not to put a price on and mix them up and marry them with something new.... I always of course have a romantic look in mind... Simple but beautiful that delights the sense of sight and smell always works... Sparkling glassware catching light always adds a touch of the lovely.. I many times said that the lighting makes or breaks a mood in a room.. Spread soft light throughout the room instead of one pendant in the ceiling is the key... Always in cooler times the flickering of a candle or the fire in the fireplace makes it complete..
Although we may be having a few lovely days and I plan on enjoying them as they are available, I am adjusting to the fact that summer living has just about came to the end for this year here in Ohio. Already the weather can't seem to make up it's mind..as today is chilly and grey and damp... I know keeping chills a bay is now going to require supplying more blankets to the bedding and throws for chilly nights while reading or viewing TV.. It all becomes part of a process as we prepare for our seasons to change... as we choose ti live in a area with four season... It is time to focus on bringing and using a mix of flea market and higher end antique objects for a uplift and create some charming spaces to dwell...

Musings

2011-09-21T06:11:00.000-07:00

As I have been working my way through belongings this week for my sale tomorrow I have found I have not one large item... Everything I have to offer is some small little decorating treasure... I also discovered that about myself.. It is not my style to have some large statement piece... rather I like to take a whole bunch of small objects and place them onto a vignette to make a statement... It is intriguing how we all have our own style and way of display.... I also made a statement on Facebook that I have been cleaning out things and my home seems to have more in it now than I started with... I think I have set times out that I found and decided not to part with and haven't had time to arrange or work in... I have gathered some fall decorations from storage but not too many as I don't have a hugh supply... I do love bittersweet however and have some lovely pieces of silk from my design days... One piece I have pictured today and I love it... Filled with silk dried hydrangea's... spiced oranges... and vines of bittersweet all arranged in a natural state in a very large white bowl that is a part of a pitcher and bowl set... The pitcher part has the same hydrangea's arranged in my living room.... When we are collectors we sure do get a bunch of stuff.... I am just sitting here shaking my head at myself...
For me fall brings on a nesting instinct... Acquired taste over the years has allowed me to love fall decorating but I don't care much for Halloween decorating... The urge for more actual cooking and warm foods seems to increase... Tom and I both like the tradition of a Sunday feast... with that comes only 2 meals instead of 3 however... A late breakfast and a complete supper...
I know all the delicate little details in ones lives differ greatly from family to family and I strongly urge all of you to live the life you love and enjoy... For me a touch of vintage and antique... good food ... family and friends just about says it all...
So long again for a couple days as I get through the sale and play catch it up afterwards... Sending best wishes and blessings....

Garage Sale Offerings

2011-09-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

This is my living room that will give you some idea of the type of offerings....

My fireplace

My pie safe with aged silver... Yummmm..

Perfume bottles and Mirror and altered art in glass cloche... The pics above are just to give you some idea of the style that will be offered at this sale... This is what I would call a "GIRLY" sale.... NO CLOTHES... except a few offerings of antique and vintage... No large furniture... mainly smaller decorating treasures...

As promised I wanted to share a few pics and a short listing of the many little treasures that will be at my garage sale... Thursday ..Sept 22nd 9-6 and Fri. 9 to noon.. half price...

Old antique tin hamper that has a re-do and is hand painted with roses...

Candle Holder with candles...

Old celluloid box with gloves... post card holder with card ... Little accent pillow

Pillows

Vintage hats.....

Holder and vintage lovely china celery tray

Embellished with vintage brooch glass frame with 2 changes of pics.. Other pic is gals in their furs for fall and winter...

Shabby frame...

Silver butter tray altered art piece.. I will have other aged silver including a silver teapot to offer....

Lovely embellished paper dolls for decorating your Christmas tree or everyday enjoyment.... I sold a couple thousand dollars worth of these on Ebay over a couple years...

I have included a picture of the wall in my living room with objects similar to what you will find in these garage sale offerings... This is a "GIRLY" sale...

A short list of some more treasures that will be at this sale.

Christmas ...

Perfume bottles

Never used espresso pot

Vintage and antique dishes

Many altered art creations

Mirror

Many pillows

Hat Pins

Beaded Napkins Rings

A bit of vintage clothing... hats.. gloves... ect...

Vintage Pie Saver Pink with a rose decal

Whiting Davis vintage purse..

The items I am offering are not from your everyday local retailer like Walmart ect. These offerings have the charm of times past... I have been in design for many years over 25 now and have retired... Many little gems came from high end gift marts or antique shoppes.. and some are created by me.. Many , more small little treasures that won't last long...

Grain Sack Musings

2011-09-16T05:41:00.001-07:00

I usually do not end to follow trends but I am sure loving the newest and hottest trend of the use of vintage grain sacks... Seems with the recession and more budgets being put in place people are moving away from the more polishes and toward vintage and hand-made materials... The warmth of these objects offer comfort to people in times of hardship and have personality all their own..

Grain sacks were designed to be past down from generation to generation with pride with the family coat of arms and their lovely calligraphy.. They were made to last for years upon years... Now days the sacks can be laid out and framed.. made into pillows... used on couches.. footstool, and others.. French grain sacks with lovely calligraphy can be quite expensive however.. I have become quite obsessed with them and have used them in many areas of my home... I think with lives being so very hectic we are searching for a calmness and feel of warmth and cozy. Feed sacks remind people of a more natural and simpler life style. Once again embracing the use of handmade. Sacks are not being thought of as old farm country decor anymore...

Charming gifts and indulgences can be created with even worn, patched, one of a kind sacks with its strong, course texture...

Affording the real thing is not a option for myself but I can create some similar looks by stencils and free hand...

Pics and other information can be found here....

Curtain picture from the catalog of Anthropologie

http://youcouldmakethat.blogspot.com/2011/01/grain-sack-table-runner-html.

http://trouvais.com/tag/authentic-antique-stenciled-grain-sacks/

Values I Hold So Dear

2011-09-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

It was off to town this morning to get my meds and place a ad in the newspaper for my coming garage sale.. It will be Thursday of next week on the 22 nd... While picking up my meds they were offering the flu shots so I also recieved that again this year... The remains of this afternoon I will seek out more objects I will be willing to part with and price for the sale...
The elements I love and define what I consider my style will have to stay with me as I don't mind as I love almost all of them and my budget doesn't allow much spending...
With aging I have changed almost to the point of dramatic... I find only wishes for a peaceful, much, much more simpler , happier, life.. With the lessen in desires, I have found my life to be much more fulfilling.. Time taken to absorb the gentle breezes and the beauty that is all around me... to allow time to read a book that transports me to a different time and different places many times ... simples pleasures...
The pool crew is suppose to come this week with the cover for our new pool and the first year they will close it up for us... as they have to come and drill screws for fastening and stretching the new cover... The water is very cold and the crickets and leaves are making their way into the pool making it a real challenge to care for... The landscaping we choose to do was simple and is completed , except I would like to make a trip to select stone down by Toledo and pick up a few speciality rocks and one dramatic one for the one stone garden... The seeded area is shooting new grass and showing a bit of green.. Tom is however thinking of seeding it again to make it thicker... The time has come to winterize this wonderful part of our back yard and look forward to the spring opening...
I am off to search out a few more objects for pricing.. As I look about you can see the way I place things together I do truly love most of my belongings.. and do not have to have new or different.. It does become a state of mind...
As the weather report forecasts much cooler weather the next few days... for today it is just lovely and comforting to walk out on our acres and enjoy the calmness of the day.. These days and times are what truly matters and the values I hold so dear....

Burlap and Grain Sacks

2011-09-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

As the leaves continue to start there gentle journey to the ground thoughts travel toward fall decorating and objects... With not caring for many rules toward decorating I think fall takes quite kindly to the use of burlap and grain sacks that can be made of cotton.. jute... or hemp... coarsely woven... Burlap is very versatile, and can easily be used with primitives to glam... I especially love it with the use of a unlikely partner of laces and finer fabrics... Many lovely and charming decorating ideas can be accomplished with the use of this heavier material..... let your imagination be your guide as you will find this can be also a very budget friendly way of decorating.....

Sources for pics...

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com

http://www.wilmingtonweddings.com

Changes Are Upon Us

2011-09-10T05:47:00.000-07:00

As the mornings in our area have become chilly thoughts of whip creme covered melting hot chocolates have taken over thoughts instead of my favorite summer beverage of iced lemonade....
Rain... rain and more rain has been answered by earlier prayers this summer when we were in need so very badly... Now ... reversed prayers may soon be needed to tighten the valve.... so farmers will be able to go to the fields in a couple weeks to try to secure the harvest that will be allowed to them...
I believe we will also be calling next week to have our pool cover installed and closed for this year as the elements are making it very difficult to keep it clean.. That enjoyment will be placed in storage... just as our holiday ornaments and decorations until the proper time to unveil it once again...
This time of the year has a transition time and sometimes is difficult to come in from outdoor events but we must... I have started my fall and winter entertainment by reading a book.... " Growing Up Amish" by Ira Wagler... I also purchased " The Help" yesterday while doing grocery shopping... The local library has it reserved into the middle of next year... Hard to believe.... More time spent indoors however does allow more time to be spent on altered art and creating... as more time is allowed due to not having outdoor chores.... I do have many projects waiting for this time period...
I had passed on all the issues of Jeanne d Ark since last Christmas but have allowed myself to order the fall and Christmas from Tracey... I will so be looking forward to receiving them... They are so lovely but with my shoestring of a budget I must make some choices to a couple a year... All the lovely pics today are from the Jeanne d Ark living site...

Lovely gift boxes will be making their appearance under the twinkling of lights of our beautiful trees.....

Candles will be flickering their dances on our ceilings and the lovely scents will be enjoyed by all....

Trimmings will be displayed in all their loveliness.......but for now however ... chilly temps... falling leaves... pumpkins...bittersweets and nuts and berries are all starting to make their appearances.... as many are starting to add the touches for this season that is upon us.... Sending wishes for a pleasant weekend your way..

" LIFE IS NOT ABOUT WAITING FOR THE STORM TO PASS....IT'SABOUT LEARNING TO DANCE IN THE RAIN " unknown

A Warm And Cozy Cottage

2011-09-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

Everyone can identify with a fragrant garden, with the beauty of a sunset, with the quiet of nature, with a warm and cozy cottage... Thomas Kinkade

Creating a warm welcome to our home ... for those who we love to visit... family, friends, and neighbors.... A wonderful thought.....

We here in Ohio have been experiencing rain and cool temps and winds the past couple days... The work I would have loved to accomplished I am pretty sure may be waiting coming next spring... We did have a load of decorative stone delivered to finish the one back area by the new pool... Hopefully that will get done by next week... Falling leaves, 3 days of wind and rain have some things looking pretty drab here but hopefully the lawn that was freshly seeded will take sprout... I am sure some pretty days will return yet this month however...

Home is where my heart is as I have stated many times before... The place we long to return to after a long stressful day... But is home is just 4 walls and been left untidy and unorganized it could be just more stress. Today I have a kettle of home-made chicken noodle soup on simmering for lunch... Since being in the back yard and by the pool is out of the question today... I am thankful for a cozy warm shelter inside our home... Today it has provided me with a sense of security from the word outside as the rain and chill continues... It is the complete home however that brings a sense of ease into our life...

Most of my day yesterday was spent pricing more objects for my coming sale of which I think will take place on the 22nd of this month... I am off for a nice warm bowl of soup and complete more chores and some pricing...

Gathering Autumn Treasures

2011-09-06T04:44:00.001-07:00

For myself it is always a welcome time to return to a normal everyday life after a holiday weekend. Some times we have so much anticipation of what it should be and some of the times it just isn't... it is nice to return to a routine... Time is in his... It is only 7:30 in the morning and he is headed to Wauseon to play golf already... Yep... he's in his routine.... A very chilly holiday was spent yesterday... We went from 98 degree weather to the 50's... It has been the most unusual summer I think I can remember and experience....
I am ready for fall after the chaos of this summer although it means the closing of our lovely new pool... but also knowing what we have to look forward to next spring.... Crispness and clarity has definitely arrived... It becomes the season season of plenty with the arrival of the final harvest for the season... Tomatoes sit in a large group on our out door table awaiting someone to slice them for enjoyment and it will bring on the apples oh so crisp.... The making of wonderful treats from our kitchens will be in full swing... apple sauces... apple butters and ciders and just wonderful baked apples from our ovens, will be in full swing...
It becomes a might bit tempting to partake in pumpkins, squash, Indian corn, gourds and bittersweet for decorating our homes... I know my cooking and baking seems more complete meals start to increase during this time.. The foods prepared seems more comforting... Although I have corn stalks available in our fields I choose not to decorate with them as the winds and rain always seem to make a mess of them, scattering them all over the yard... so I just stay away from using them... As fall gets further along the winds pull our leaves from our trees and leave them like skeletons for the season... This is always a sad time as I love the foliage on the trees but the ice and snow lays upon these skeletons and creates a winter blizzard effect and creates wonderful beauty also... Fall is the one time of the year that we allow dummies in our yards.. Chuckle... Then comes the goblins... I have already started to knock down cobwebs inside and outside our home... I will be going to storage this morning after posting and gathering some of my outdoor fall decoration... keeping it simple will be placing them out on the front porch today...
As we enter into the plentiful season it will be a perfect background for pleasures and wonderful treats... Don't forget to get those clear white lights and add them to your fall settings as a early start for Christmas.... It is wonderful the fall traditions have developed into some magical fun filled days and nights and it is a reminder for us to stop and enjoy moments as the pass by so very quickly... The calendar says the time is arriving .... so lets just enjoy the offerings and treasures this season creates for us.....

Imagination..Creates Personality

2011-09-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Received many lightening bolts and God bowling strikes last evening and through the night but very small amount of rain... The sun is trying to peep out as I am typing this post...
As many of you will be touring around this weekend with different celebrations of all kinds... do you let your imagination travel with you? I know many times I view styles or something I find very appealing and try to imagine how I can make something similar work in my style... Always love looking for seating arrangements.. Bold colors not so much as they do not work for me.. I have to go with calming.. not something that makes me want to jump out of my shoes when entering the room...To enjoy the ambiance I love I have to stay with warm color choices... Considering how you can out something to use can be quite challenging and fun... It only makes sense to do what you want to surround yourself in... I love lots of stuff yet a more serene way of living... I always have stressed groupings instead of items just setting randomly everywhere... It all should be dome with your imagination and own personal touches however.. It is wonderful to find inspiration but making it your own is what adds the personal charm.Viewing and searching out salvage architecture can make many forms of decorating very lovely.. In my area this form is salvage is not very often found... Not plentiful as I have viewed on other blogs that you may have access to ... in fact, if you find one piece you may be lucky... Letting your imagination travel with you on your journeys will bring one-of-a-kind character by revealing your own personality....

A Place We Love Most In The World

2011-09-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

It is the most wonderful place to enjoy the peace and quiet and beauty... it is ones home... Having a pool is a luxury.. and I well know it...
Today may be the last day that we can really enjoy the pool for this year as the weather is suppose to take a change this next coming week... today however it is in the the high 90's again as I can feel the heat mounting it's charge already as I am sitting here posting... Tom is hoping to finish the larger part of the landscaping on the other side of the pool... I have snapped a picture of the smaller area we decided to landscape with rock and marble stone and grass and boxwood and a small little pine.....The really great part is the plants are half price in the nursery areas right now} He does have the border stone set and the plants set in the other area but the weed barrier roll and the stone needs to be added and larger rock placed about... The seeding was completed yesterday awaiting the fore casted rain.....
The surroundings are changing fast from the summers days.. Last evening the lights could be viewed the the distant background from the football field at Tinora High School and the sound of bands and cheers as the boys scampered up and down the field to bring home a win... Go Rams....
Even though much has been going on here for the past week I will miss some of the summer days as our area in Ohio is traveling into a cooler but beautiful time of the year... The colors of the leaves is aways enjoyed by all... With transition starting my mind always starts to think of get togethers , as gifts and homemade cookies... confectionery's.. decorations increase and wreaths are symbols for the seasons. Personal thoughts and decorating become a part of our lives... We try to achieve atmosphere to surround us. Old and homemade of course are personal favs of mine..
Scents and delightful smells are lovely to fill or homes as we have to shut up windows and doors to insure warmth... The lovely feel and smell of candles, are very appealing to the eye and smell as the flame does it fascinating dance as it burns... Yes, it is all approaching but for today and the next couple days I plan on enjoying the Labor Day holiday and wish all of you a blessed and safe holiday also... I know many will be traveling but for Tom and I it will be the place we love best in the world... " Home Sweet Home".....

First Pictures Of Our New Pool

2011-09-01T12:38:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to share a picture of our new pool completed... As you can see the shaping of the yard has begun and now is ready for seeding and adding speciality plants and rocks of which I hope to see done this weekend... I have been in twice today with the temp of water at 72 it is a polar gal swim but the temp in the 90's soon adjusting to the water feels pretty good.... It is the last week we will most like swim before the closing... Leaves have started to fall a little ... Much work to be done to make it more appealing... We have a LED underwater light that changes the color of the water as you swim when it is totally dark... I feel like I am back in the disco days....

Blissfully Simple

2011-08-31T05:16:00.001-07:00

Waking to dew filled mornings and this morning a light rain here in Ohio are daily reminders that fall has started to set in... As The work crew continues their very hard work and near completion of the pool in the back yard... They are packing the sides this morning and will be dropping the liner and filling the pool later this afternoon and pulling out by evening according to Shelby...
My thoughts remain positive about keeping things simple in my life... This will include fall and Christmas this year... Knowing fully it doesn't take very much to liven up a room with fall and Christmas touches... Much of the spirit lies in our attitude toward it all itself... The filling of simple glass jars and bell glass cloches with pumpkins leaves berries nuts or baubles or beads can be very striking... Using a old aged silver tray for a base for little vignettes is stunning.. Mirrors and trays are both lovely ways to start a foundation for a display...
If you are on a tight budget as I am usually myself.... and we just received the bill for the pool this morning and Tom is off to get into his savings as it will be 5000.00 more than expected on original estimate.... and we stayed very modest... I will try not to add to extra spending in any way.... Nature itself can be a very thrifty way of adding a lovely look with the use of cones, berries, nuts, branches and just searching for lovely items laying and growing around you... Another way of adding a soft romantic touch of course is with the clear Christmas lights... This addition can start with fall decoration and be transferred into Christmas with the addition of different trims... I love the idea of using the lights early as you don't have to be placing them when it gets super cold outside... There seems to me to be something magical about the clear Christmas lights.. they are soft but yet brilliant that can welcome you as well as your neighbor and friends....
" Blissful Simple" can be easily achieved in my thoughts by using timeworn objects of the past and adding that touch of bling... Create the atmosphere I so delight in surrounding myself in....
Last evening we had a beef roast carrots and potatoes for our supper and sliced tomatoes and I made more so I had left overs..also my son and my X ate with us as they were here when it was supper time.... I am about to go to the kitchen and place a large kettle of vegetable soup on to simmer for a couple hours for our lunch today... I have it all chunked up and went to the garden and picked green beans and will be adding some sweet corn ... I love the idea of being able to serve several meals from a main meal... Again the idea of keeping it simple works in many different areas... Sending you best wishes as we travel into a holiday weekend and the ending of summertime on our area....

Monday Morning

2011-08-29T07:35:00.001-07:00

Snowflakes.. Jeanne d Ark

Gushy....... update.....

Monday Morning.... the sounds and sights of giant iron yellow streaks can be hear this morning as they travel by on route to schools in our district as it is the first day back from summer vacation..
Sounds of very large work crews continues in our back yard area as the crews continue with our pool construction.. Shelby is telling us the pool will be completed and filled with water by weeks end... The crew has amazed us with the amount of work they complete in a days time.. The outlining patio and pool surround has been completed with the cementing.. They are doing the brushing now... Cement has been poured on the floor of the pool...

As the pool nears completion I am thinking of placing fall decorations out on porch sometime this week... I have had fall and Christmas on my mind as of late... This weekend I went online and found a wholesale house that sold glitter snowflakes and I purchased 4 dozen for under 20.00 including shipping.. I am not going to be bringing most of by Christmas out of storage this year... no village or pink balls ect... I have decided to just simplify and enjoy this year... The use of snowflakes will create a winter wonderland as the use of snow and glitter and bottle brush trees will complete the wonderland... I already have many bottle brush trees and snow so will use existing objects... Just a winter wonderland appeal... Very simple but with a designers touch of which I possess. I know I can make it pretty and I have so learned to make life more simple is also to make it more enjoyable..... This lesson has defiantly come with age.....

Home

2011-08-26T05:10:00.001-07:00

As the schools prepare in our area for children to return on Monday and vacation ends, pool construction continues under cool breeze and blue skies and dew laying on the landscape... at our little country home sitting on acres surrounded by corn fields on one side and soy bean field on the other... The outdoor fun being constructed for future enjoyment make the indoor chores a easier part of life... The addition in this pool I didn't have as one of the features is the large step down steps entering into the pool... we just had 2 ladders before as they didn't offer these 35 years ago... The steps and under water lighting { being installed as I post} are 2 features I desired...
The peaceful setting surrounded by corn and bean fields framed with lovely shade trees provides a spot of private retreat with a level of country charm... A modest place we call home... Life in our back yard area is all about comfort... making simplicity combine with substance...
I often think about people and all their different dreams and wants.. I have friends from every walk of life... Some have wishes for nothing but the finest.. some have not many wants and have lived in the same home for years upon years and seem to be very content... Some have moved 5 times in the last 15 years or so and purchased all new belongings and still seem not to have found contentment...
In my quiet quest for the want of comfort I do believe Tom and I have succeeded.. Would it be sweet to have other new things... sure.. but it is going to enhance our true happiness. " No".. With the aging process I think you are able to figure this all out.. In the end result..... "Things are just things" and truly do not buy happiness.
When all my running and chores are completed this little country home is what I love the best... surrounded by wonders is my little nest known as home...

Making The Best

2011-08-25T05:40:00.000-07:00

"THE HAPPIEST PEOPLE DON'T HAVE IT ALL...... THEY JUST MAKE THE BEST OUT OF WHAT THEY HAVE".....................................

It seems my life as of late has become busier that I am comfortable with... I am ready to slow down the pace... I lay in bed with many thoughts running through my head and have once again decided in my mind and wishes to enforce the desire to slow down and live and enjoy at the pace I want... I feel not the need to run or purchase something everyday... Only take the extra special time to enjoy what is offered to me... If I do not make this happen it is all my fault... I have promised myself once again to enjoy all the treats I have at my access and not to let them pass me by... Taking the extra time when dressing to go to town or a event to take out jewelry and embellish my appearance instead of letting belongings lay in storage... I purchased it ... use it... Dump a ton of oils into my bath water and enjoy the pleasure... { and then call the plumber..LOL} Enjoy surroundings although they may not be a resort.. Making food serving extra special... Taking time to really enjoy time with family and friends ... not making excuses or not enjoying the moments... At the time the sun is setting take time to enjoy the beauty... As a peaceful retreat of our home makes it a place you want to be... this also is enjoyed much more if you do not allow yourself to get behind... We ourselves can allow this kind of experience... Be wise enough to allow it... Create a satisfying life and make the best of what you have...

UPDATE..... Last evening and into early morning house... storms roared through out area with tornado warnings in effect... The digging was one big mud hole this morning filled with water from the storms... The large machinery bucketed it out and is digging away and the boys are stomping in the mud making their way around working.... The rains haven't appeared all summer and we wanted to avoid them during this period but I guess God is answering our prayers we prayed for all summer... We forgot to include the dates in our prayers... However, I will not let this dampen my spirit... I was going to add a picture this morning of the digging and mess but it would have been a really DIRTY one... LOL.....

Destruction Has Begun

2011-08-24T08:44:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was spend pumping out 800.00 dollars worth of water into a ditch that runs beside our home.... it was rather painful as we now know that 800.00 worth of water has to be hauled in once again in a couple weeks and new chemicals added once the new pool is completed... The crew pulled in at 8:00 this morning and the second pic is all the destruction that has taken place in about 3 1/2 hours.. I am totally amazed at the amount of work they have completed and already 4 dump trucks full has been hauled out... It has been a very noisy morning however.... I tried to stay busy by preserving by freezing tomatoes and green beans for soup making this winter when the snow flies... Will keep you posted with pics once the new pool starts taking shape... It will be interesting to watch the process.....

Last Dips Taken... Fall Echos

2011-08-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

What seems to be a very long weekend has departed with many thoughts and stories shared by many and many of us agreeing, yes, we have become our mothers.. Saturday evening after arriving home I even had turned into my grandmother as I went to bed before the sun had completely set.. No matter what the square footage when we are tired we want to return to our little have for rest and peace of mind...
This morning is damp and cool as the temps were around 50 degrees but the sun has come out to warm the chill and charge our battery... Signs of fall are echoing everywhere and thoughts of dipping in the water have not even entered my mind... the fields and landscapes are going through change... School children in our school district { Northeastern Local... Tinora} are capturing their last week { many at the Defiance County Fair} before going back to school this coming week on Monday to further their educations...
I am feeling the urge to scatter some fall decorations around as I usually do in September till the last week of October when the scatterings of Christmas starts to take place... Autumn colors are always a warming and welcoming sight for myself as it is one of my favorite times of the four seasons we have here in Ohio.... This summer lacked enjoyment for me as I didn't handle our high 90 to 100 degree temps very well that broke all records ever... My garden is trying to bear it last offerings.. The cucumbers are drying up as well as the greens beans as they struggled through a very dry season... The sweet corn stalks have been chopped and rotated into the garden soil as it wasn't as good year for sweet corn for us either... Yesterday we purchased peaches from a local orchard and I have to say they are just delicious and to be enjoyed with delight... Seasonal varieties of peaches and apples should be enjoyed for the next couple weeks... Farmers within a month or so should be making ready for the giant horses to go to the fields for harvest for undetermined yields as the summer was hurt with our lack of rain... Scarecrows and pumpkins... along with dried cornstalks and other ready fall decorations will be visible soon... many porches and yards will be filed with these Autumn pleasures... All these treats have become popular through our heritage and years past...
Well I must say goodbye for most likely a couple days as my home is in need of some attention.. laundry... garden produce to be attended... porches and decks cleaned.. pillows must be plumped among many other little chores... Being away from the home for a couple days and leaving things unattended has made chores mount up...
Tomorrow is another busy day as I have "fun day" for ladies golf league in the morning and in the evening a jewelry party to attend at a friend Kay's home.... Then hopefully my obligations will be less as I have to focus on other things pending... that need to be completed... Tom has himself booked solid and will not be under foot for the next couple weeks with golfing events... Sending blessings and best wishes for a couple days for posting will not most likely take place tomorrow...

Living The Life You Love

2011-08-19T05:43:00.001-07:00

After traveling through the journey we call life for 70 years ow, it is not easy to always live the life we love... Not being from a family that came with many silver spoons... I have learned to substitute many wants with many small tidings ... Lavish was never available to me... Reflections however in what I believe in are put into place however... Learning the understanding of what is truly important has been acquired like lessons we learned in school... Living the more simple life has developed into my fondness desires... I am grateful for what blessings has been bestowed onto me these past years and not really that envious of others decisions... Tom and I have made simple decisions almost all of the time.... once in awhile we step somewhat away from what we think to be right... Our decisions may not be so desired by others but they seem to work for us... We have some lovely acreage to stroll in and call home with no desires of having a second place to call home... One home is more than good enough for us.... As many ladies are offered diamonds as their best friend... some cheap piece of junk will most likely spark me and turn into a treasure... It seems like a gentle person with love in their heart can make your world a extra special place to be... Objects and days gone by speak to me... especially not enjoying the challenges we face today... Seeming everything has become to analyzed when all it really needs is some good common everyday sense... As for adding color to my life.. I guess I just turn to nature for doing so.. The lovely surroundings offer a peace and contentment when walking upon them and when using them for inspiration for color in one's home and everyday living...
In my teens after my father passed away it seems many classmates were strutting in new clothing and I had my little closet of 5 blouses... one for every school day and 3 skirts to change them off with... and was always seeking embellishments of some kind to change them abit.. I find myself still having that desire today... not so much in my clothing as I am a blue jeans strickly gal... but in my everyday surroundings of my home... I dress my home as I use to my paper dolls I would create and sketch... It was my favorite pastime as a child... Seems as a child I was always practicing art of salvaging and it has continued through the many years... I consider it adding charm and character and it just comes natural... The simple taste of the country is a sweet memory of times past as I peer from my large picture window and watch the neighbors scurry and make ready to head off to our county fair.. The camper they will stay in went a coupled days earlier... and the loading of the horses are awaiting... along with other projects ... Remembering the years spent doing the same things brings back some of those simpler moments... Finding the later years... unbridled I still enjoy watching others make ready with their families... and making their memories...
Having contentment and a certain amount of wisdom makes something beautiful happen.. especially when you are willing to be accepting of the ways things are.... Sending blessings.... This afternoon we will be off to Toledo to go to The Distillery to visit with very old friends that are in from Arizona and tomorrow I have a class reunion birthday celebration for all our 70th birthdays to attend... At this time I believe Sunday may be a day of rest as I enter into another week with other events... all creating the memories and the life I love...

A Farewell Get Together

2011-08-17T07:17:00.001-07:00

The labor of cleaning this pool is about over ...This evening we will host a farewell cookout with 2 other couples as we mill around the existing pool for what will most likely be the last time.... This old pool of 35 years has seen many a pool parties enjoyed by young and old and have some stories it could tell....Good thing there wasn't any built in cameras..LOL Tonight we will be roasting hot dogs... potato salad and baked beans.. cucumbers... tomatoes... relishes and dessert and card playing will be enjoyed by all....
As times will be marching on and all good things age I many times wonder what makes us be inspired to hunt for treasures and become so delighted and so intrigued with them... I know most of the time we all love new things but with age I have learned to be very content with existing things.... There becomes a time when you make decisions as to antiques or vintage to spend your money on... Generally antiques are considered to be more hand crafted and 100 years or more in age and more expensive to purchase while vintage is not as old and not really nearly as expensive as a rule... many lovely vintage items are available in shops and markets and sales and will marry well with antiques or everyday belongings... I enjoy making them all a family as I have a big mix of all... When purchasing something.. make sure you truly love it otherwise it is not worth any expense.. Don't purchase objects you really don't have room for... Cluttering can take some the individual wow factor away from a unique object ... where marrying in vignettes is much more pleasing to the eye... and showcase items of interest...
As time has been filled I have slowed on getting more objects around for my garage sale and Tom has suggested we take it into September after all the heavy equipment and trucks have completed there running in and out while the new pool construction takes place... As It will give me more time I fully agree and thoughts of maybe parting with more objects will take place... All my items will be small in size as it will just mainly be decorating items... I am not parting with furniture... I will just be content with what I have.... I am off to prepare some baked beans for later baking and making some caramel corn for much later snacking.... If I get this all completed it will be a lovely afternoon to take some time in the sun and enjoy old time with our departing pool....

Passing Moments

2011-08-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

The past week was filled with events and not much time spend on caring for the home.. I feel a bit like this little person stranded upon the chair...Yesterday was the church festival and after completing working my shift I spend the rest of several hours with my children and little granddaughter Olivia... On my what a fun time was had by her.... and she went home with a bunch of goodies...
Today I must make a trip to town as my meds have run out... Tuesday if ladies golf league.. just tomorrow and fun day and the league will be over for this year... Wednesday afternoon we are having two other couple over for a small cookout and a farewell to the pool party with cards later... Friday we are traveling to Toledo to visit with friends that are in from Arizona... We are meeting at The Distillery for dinner and conversation... Saturday is my class reunion celebration for all our 70th birthdays and I am surprised how many are coming... The other days I must make ready and sift through the house for more items to be priced for my sale.. Seems the sale keeps getting shoved aside for other events...
I miss having time to be creative and resourceful.... but the desire still remains.. I usually rely on creativity to make my home have some charm... Not having a large amount of money to spend doesn't mean you can't have nice things as I have stated before.. Fabrics as well as clothes can always be layered and embellished. and items can be re-purposed into desires one of a kind items.. The other evening one of the gals at the jewelry party loved the runner I had made on my table that I had sewed a remnant piece of grain sack and a vintage table runner cut in half together... I love it also... and it was created with just stuff I had laying around my home... One of a kind creations are wonderful... Many one of a kind creations end up coming from scouring thrift stores and estate sales.. finding tarnished silver.. mis-matched dishes... vintage jewelry.. chandeliers and parts... and many other worn items...
Embellishment can be a simple but plush upgrade to a existing object or item.. It can end up on a pillow..purse..jacket..picture..only your imagination can be your vision.. There are no real rules... you can make your own with what in your eyes are lovely together... I am never intimidated by thoughts or words of others as I decorate for my own style and taste... I care not for mass produced items from catalogs or stores and do not wish them on my home... The unexpected is much more desirable and creative in my eyes.. Trash to treasures.... Nothing like finding your own ole rusty trash and turning it into your treasure...
I must depart and accomplish some chores before heading to town for meds... I have several chores that went undone this weekend and now must be attended...Hope to find time to pop in on your blogs maybe later this afternoon or early evening...

A Busy Weekend

2011-08-13T06:20:00.001-07:00

I arose very early this morning... I think I heard Tom shuffling around the house at 6:00 making ready for his golf outing this morning... A kettle of green beans freshly picked from our garden and bacon is simmering on the stove top for tomorrow nights eating after coming home from our church festival.. sliced cucumbers have been made and placed in fridge also for enjoying...
Today in a couple hours I will going to the Elks club with my sister-in-law to meet up with Tom and her hubby to have lunch after the golf outing.. Later in the afternoon we have been invited to a 70 th surprise birthday party that is a outside outing... Tomorrow is the festival so the weekend has become a very busy one...
The warmer is can be felt in the mornings such as this morning and the evenings as the chill has filled the air... County fairs in the area are in full swing as the kids make ready for returning to school.. As the season changes I also make a few changes in the decorating.. When left in one spot over a couple months things become tired looking to me... Changing little sections works best for me as too large of projects of change become confusion...Make sure you don't make your projects so large you don't feel a sense of accomplishment... I love the little projects that can be completed in a morning or much less than a day...
I am off to look in on some of your blogs and make ready for the day... Till Monday... sending best wishes.....

A Calm Lovely Day

2011-08-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

I don't believe there will be gardening today as I have awaken this morning to feel just a might bit sluggish after the jewelry party held in my home with my daughter last evening... All in all it turned out to be a fun time surrounded by a few of Starla's friends and my friends who were all willing to be dazzled by the jewelry and warmed by the laughter... My daughter and I earned just a few dollars under 400.00 of free jewelry so I will be supporting a couple new looks soon...
The sun is shinning brightly this morning as the day promises to reach temps in the mid 80's.. Sunday is our church festival of which will take all of the day up... I already know I will be very tired when arriving home...
A couple loads of laundry will be done today and a few things out of place from the party will be returned to their proper places... Plans to hopefully lay in the sun for a half hour or so this afternoon as my tan has started to fade from not being in the sun during all those 90 degree days we received... Then tomorrow I plan on doing some more pricing of objects that I choose to part with on my upcoming garage sale...
I have hopes that all enjoyed their evening out last night.. I know many times a evening or afternoon at a friends home can be quite refreshing... Several of my friends have inviting homes with whites and creams, vintage furniture, laces, grain sacks or elegant furniture... but I still find the romantic touches are the ones that send me into total enjoyment.. Romantic is not created with passing trends or latest styles.. it is for me one of a kind treasures or objects that make it so totally special... It is the art of gathering together pieces and objects that are visually pleasing that create this appeal.. I think many times we worry about if it goes while if you stick with things you love... it will work... The key is to combining your displays and not splattering them all over in individual places... Objects speak more when they are in grouping just as we do as a family... One of the biggest ways of adding ambiance and romance is through what we choose for our lighting.. Oh please... not a bear bulb or a ceiling fixture... Twinkling soft shades and sparkling chandeliers improve your rooms looks and appeal and add the instant comfort you so want... You can have the most romantic room in the world but if you don't have the lighting right it will not do it justice... Remember when the use of old and worn... it would be brutal under bright lighting... Soft and candlelight is always flattering just as a girl's best friend is the little black dress...
I am off , my laundry is calling for some attention and folding to resume it place back in drawers and closets... Bidding you all a lovely weekend with many blessings.... as we are cruising right into it...

Summer Days Fading ..Fall Stepping In

2011-08-10T06:47:00.000-07:00

The past week our area has recieved some blessings in the form of showers and the landscapes have begun to respond to them.. After many weeks of brown, burnt, and brittle grass between you toes when walking barefoot, the grass and landscaping is greening and coming alive once again.. The temps have cooled down from the 90's and above to wonderful temps and gentle breezes... what a lovely treat.. I am cleaning today as I prepare for the jewelry party my daughter is having here tomorrow early evening...

I will make ready for the use of my outdoor spaces in case some want to sip a glass of wine or iced beverages out on the decks by the pool... It is most likely the last gathering of friends before the arrival of thee work crew and the demolition of the existing pool to make ready for the new one... This is scheduled for not later than the 28th, maybe earlier... The water from this pool will be pumped into a close to our home ditch ... After the completion of the new one at least 6 loads or more of water will be brought at about 80.00 a load and new chemicals will have to be placed to insure winterizing... I cannot believe the water will be comfortable for swimming enjoyment but I have been wrong many times before... Most likely it will be just made ready for pumping down and winterizing once we find that all is working well... We knew this would have to happen to be able to complete the process of a new pool ....

Tomorrow will be spent baking a few desserts and some tea sandwiches for our guests tomorrow evening as we enjoy what is proving to be the ending of summer and moving into fall... If time allows I would like to ride the back roads and collect large bunches of queen anne's lace { found along roadsides and open areas.. It may also be placed in containers with a few drops of food coloring and it will take on the color of the water.} Ok.. For the farmers reading I know it is a weed and wild carrot but I think it is lovely... and oh, so budget friendly...
Hopefully with soft lighting and a fantastic sunset a lovely evening of conversation can be enjoyed by all. { Let's not forget a lovely piece of jewelry to enjoy, also}
As I view not a maid or hear anyone to accomplish my tasks I must part and continue cleaning... and await the arrival of my daughter tomorrow to help with last minute preparations...

PS. My sister-in-law lost her Mother this week and I just wanted to say a couple words to remember her...
" Lets give thanks to our heavenly Father.. for our angels standing by.. Cause it's so wonderful to have someone who rushes to dry each tear we cry." Linda Grazulis

Times Past And Happy Endings

2011-08-08T07:21:00.000-07:00

As I peer from the large picture window of my home this morning I see the landscape changing from the lack of rain and dryness although we did have a couple nice showers the past few days... Things are starting to acquire a fall look with many weeds and ditches all dried and the corn is tasseled... the change is evident... Sometimes I see to be thinking of times past... Can this be my age and knowing that most of my life has been lived... Is it the unknown that makes it somewhat uncomfortable at times when we allow our minds to wonder... knowing that our nation may not be as strong as it once was and thinking of what is to come with our children and grandchildren... when all this occurs I must know that when it get tough.... that's when the tough get going....

I long many times for the world to be more aware of what occasions really were celebrated for and what they really mean.. I know many of you younger readers and bloggers will not understand what I am trying to portray but I can certainly tell you that there was a time in America when people, places, and things meant more to us... not just our possessions....

You know " the fonz" { Henry Winkler} days were just the best ever that I remember...more relaxed but very hard worked for survival... society was certainly not so accepting and God was still allowed in to schools... I have my thoughts and beliefs but do not go around trying to shower them on everyone but my secret thoughts are " shame on you" for passing some of the rights and not concentrating on what could be a crucial to our nation... I find myself rather sickened by many things our society has accepted... seems like we have allowed all the rights to the wrong things... I am saddened deeply by the recent loss of US soldiers that are fighting for our country.. As they fight I sometimes feel we are letting them down in what they are fighting for...

Sometimes thinking and remembering wonderful simple pleasure of the past brings me the most happiness... Am I living in the past... most defiantly not... It is just a pleasing place to go visit for awhile and certainly good on the budget... I love most of the modern technology, well most of the time when it isn't on melt down.. The conveniences are wonderful most of the time... but still should be in moderation.. It doesn't hurt us to have to tug and pull abit to keep ourselves strong in mind and will.

This morning is damp and over cast as I am about to work on chores... This week for me has a couple events to prepare for... I am hosting a jewelry party at the request of my daughter. Starla, in need of a place to hold the party... I need to make a list of things to be completed for that... Sunday will be our church festival at St. Michael's Ridge Catholic Church of which I will be working and socializing and the complete day will be spent there....

Schools in our area will be soon back in session as many changes occur for families... Although some dread the thought I always thought it was much better when the children we on a daily routine and planning for where, when and what... Hum, it takes me back to remembering the good old days when one would walk 2 or 3 miles or more just to get to school come rain.. snow... or sunshine... We didn't know any different and I believe it was what made it all good.. Sending you all thoughts and wishes today for " Happy Endings"....

Treasures That Are Staying With Me

2011-08-05T05:56:00.000-07:00

My favorite wall in m home, filled with many little collections...

My very old pie safe 1868 did have several items removed from it but these remain.....

I removed a couple objects from the fireplace mantle....I will be keeping the vintage chocolate boxes and will purchase another similar if I ever find any... I always have my eyes trained but haven't seen any in years.... A 8 year old friend of Tom's youngest grandson was here swimming this week and they came in to talk and he was asking about all the objects in the house... One of the things he asked about was the boxes... He wanted to know if those were me when I was young.. I must have looked mighty old to him but when I explained fine chocolates candies were once placed in those boxes for gift giving his eyes got very big... I love it when the young are interested in learning about the past....

I did find a few hatpins that I priced to sell as I decided to only keep the best of the best and a couple holders....

Of course my cloches and tiny treasure for changing and filling are staying... Also my perfume bottles I am saving the best of the best I have and some have been priced...

A few goodies that set in the very large picture window in the living room.....

Little treasure that were cleaned and place in a small cloche and sit back on the mantle...

A silver compact and a very lovey silver coin purse and mirror will be staying... I love the little coin purse...

I cleaned and sorted yesterday right into the early evening hours... I thought I would share with you the objects that will be remaining with me... I know you are thinking... what did she remove? I did take many little objects out... clean or prep and price them for selling... The wall in the living room I have featured is really full but I love that wall and it really isn't that hard to care for... It is easy dusting.... And only a few of my vintage and antique purses made it to the pricing block... I am hoping my daughter will want the purses as she knows I love them... She will be getting her degree for RN in about 9 more weeks and they hopefully will buy a larger home the next couple years and I hope to help her furnish it down the road as I downsize more... She and hubby both love antiques and prims... I do love the feel of the charm of the old objects around me even though it is more work to give them the TLC and keep them fresh... And I have to remember I will not be having funds to replace many objects once I have rid of them nor do I really want to do to the amount of work it takes.... I do really love the stories that many objects of the past tell us and it a talent to use some of these items for re purpose.... Hoping you enjoy your day as I am about to fill my little sup with one more cup of coffee and off I go to select more treasures to part with... Blessings sent to you all......

Parting With Some Treasures

2011-08-04T06:57:00.000-07:00

We received some rain over night late Tuesday and early Wednesday morning..not nearly as much as we would have liked but we will consider what we did receive a blessing... I am going to do some picking and choosing the next few days of objects I have on display to say goodbye to and part with and place them on my sale for another to treasure... I have already put this sale off far to long this summer already due to the excessive heat... I am just going to have to work through it.. I sincerely want to simplify and quit buying of which I have done.... { does make posting somewhat harder if you are not buying all the time and sharing your treasures or junk} When I have my sale I made a promise to myself I would not re buy unless it was something I just couldn't live without and I can't eat antiques so...... I just cleaned and priced a candelabra with some crystals and a large antique celluloid box with a Victorian bar pin and a vintage pair of opera gloves tucked in it... and a lovely old glass decanter is being cleaned and ready for a price on it...

I have cleaned out one corner this morning and am now on a short break to post and am sharing a pic with you of a couple of the small objects I decided not to part with but rather place them on glass so cleaning doesn't have to occur every other day.... I placed in my very tall jar { of which itself is very hard to clean but I still love it so it stays... {It is the length of my whole arm to get down inside to clean so a real challenge.... } a Victorian bar pin or brooch... a cameo vintage compact... a vintage decorative comb in a case.... and a lovely old Victorian photo of which is one of my favorites ... The lid to the jar has a vintage rhinestone brooch secured to crinkle ribbon... I will have a hard time choosing little objects to part with as I love changing out my glass cloches with these little treasures... I must make a decision to part with some of these however in order to make my cleaning easier as I am finding it harder to give them the TLC...
The sun has decided to come out as it is getting into late morning so that means the heat will be accompanying it... but there is a nice breeze going through the house right now.... Well wishing you all a lovely day as I am off to clean and find objects to part with....

Charmed

2011-08-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

With a forecast of 95 degrees I have been out early watering what plants have managed to survive the summer and not dried up... Garden production is way down this year also... as we continue to suffer from a lack of rainfall and excessive heat... wishing we could have some of the flooding waters of early spring... scattered over summer...
Much of my time yesterday was spent in the living room ...dining area.. and kitchen that have air conditioning available...
I wanted to take a few minutes this morning and read some of my favorite blogs but ran into Internet service problems so that didn't happen and the reason for late posting today... The blogs I frequent and love to read offer home, life, loves, happiness and yes, sadness.... as they are all part of life itself... Reading trials of others sometimes give me, will power, inspiration and reminds me to support family and friends and to sustain.. Reminders that we need to get going when life gets tough...
Have you ever wondered what is truly in your genes? Why we are so strong in our likes and dislikes? As most if us struggle to live the American dream and enjoy benefits of our labor, it seems to becoming much harder... Many enjoyments are reverting back to simple pleasures... When we have never known more it seems much easier than having to give them up once you have had them...
Not have a large budget as always ... I must crush my desire to visit a antique shop or travel, today.. Knowing it is going to be extremely hot I usually have a desire to just run away to someplace cold... I may just have to go to the rec. room and get out scraps and glue and create some altered art.. I wonder if life will revert back to the point when sharing recipes from one's kitchen could pass the time of day and produce many good meals for our families from our kitchens.. It is obvious a good recipe can produce more than the talks in government...
Even though we may not have it all, there is always one thing that always works... CHARM is real!!!!! It works.. Charm is an empowering thing.. a very gentle flirting like we always used on our daddies.... CHARM always makes one feel good about themselves.. But remember when using CHARM, you have to mean it or you won't fool anyone.. We can't fix one's problems most likely but we can listen and let one share... I believe we so this in blogging and that is why I am now off to be charmed by others...
Wishes for something wonderful to happen to you today.....

A Day In Middlebury, Indiana

2011-07-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

Horse and buggies awaiting owners return from breakfast....as we pull in the restaurant...

Inside the restaurant....

Hungry, Brownsburg, Bulldogs after a hot dusty game.... Garrett { Tom's grandson looking toward me as I snap the pic....

Big smile ... after a win... Garrett

Traveling down the road.....

The Restaurant.....

Oh the Bakery......

The carriage....

Many buggies and Amish families...

The covered bridge....

Yesterday Tom and I arose at 6:00 a.m. to make ready to travel to Middlebury, Indiana to attend his grandson's Garrett Baseball tournament game... that was being held in Middlebury... We arrived in Middlebury about 9:00 a.m. and ate breakfast at Das Dutchmen Essenhaus. They pride themselves on being the largest restaurant on Indiana with a whopping { 1,100 seats}... There are small shops in the area also... and a very large bakery... After the game I told Tom I would want to come back to the bakery... Gotta take a couple goodies home you know... I purchased a peanut butter creme pie...a loaf of sourdough bread { one of Tom's favorite} a very small bag of home-made Carmel's... I would have loved to take home noodles and some apple butter ect. but the items were on the pricey side.. For example 6 cookies were 5.25...ouch.... I will be baking my own cookies since 2 cookies is just a sample for Tom...

I would have loved to spend much more time there as I have been begging all summer to go to the Amish country and travel the back roads and here we were in prime Amish country and had to rush home... Tom's daughter Tonya had called and said she was coming down with a friends and her daughters to be around the pool in the afternoon so Tom was in his trucker mode { his occupation before retirement} grrrrr....to get home... I would have loved to snapped some pics.. I did snap a couple but do you know what a cheap camera and snapping at 60 miles a hour produces to share with you... Can I say... not much.... Life as a blurrr.....

When leaving the restaurant we did see the wedding carriage traveling down the lane to the covered bridge for a wedding ceremony.. It was lovely but I had sympathy for them because of the extreme heat...

I did place a picture of Amish buggies awaiting their owners to return from having breakfast... I was surprised at the amount of Amish that were eating in the restaurant...

By noon bells, temps had reached the 90's and very hot and humid and I could feel myself getting that ache in the tummy and crabbiness setting in... Hot weather can really have a hold on me that I don't enjoy...

When we arrived home we found the pool to be full of young women and girls enjoying the relief of the water in the pool... and a house full of flies... I am posting while on break from mopping my floors yet one more time this week...

Also when arriving home I had 2 messages from my daughter who was at my X's... She wanted us to come over and spend some time with her... After the girls left... I made some supper followed by a piece of that peanut butter pie... oh yummmm... peeled off my clothes and slipped into the pool and cooled down and freshened up... We went to see my daughter of which we stayed much longer than I thought we would and came home... soaked in a bath of perfumed oiled water ... watched a hour of HGTV and traveled off to bed... This morning has consisted of laundry.. mopping... cleaning porch and decks... washing windows... and picking sweet corn from the garden for supper.... I want to slice up a large watermelon and make some sliced cucumbers yet.... Wait this is Sunday...I need to cool it... so the rest of the things to be done can just wait till tomorrow as the temps is now nearing the 90 degree mark once again... Hope you are all staying cool and enjoying your day... I hope for this one to be just a bit more relaxing with a hour here... sending blessings....

Today's Life Filled With Spam

2011-07-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

It is a grey, humid day, with a small amount of rain fall, here, in my little country corner of Ohio today...It is just past noon and Tom and I just returned from a trip to town... We needed a few things at the grocery and some pool chemicals.... We were told at the pool store they would be coming in about 2 weeks to tear out the old existing pool we are using and built us a new one.... It's getting close...
I was reading stories on Yahoo news on the Internet as I do most days... My head is shaking as I am whispering ol'e my golly... what in the world is taking place.....as I am just blown away by some of the SPAM that is considered news.... This causes me to wonder and care what has happened to the Portrait Of America... Other countries read this on the Internet ... What happened to the times when there may have been a little gossip at the local cafe or general store... Now we are hearing about Jesse James X fiance having a early age tattoo of him under her arm pit... Where did he come from anyway... wasn't Jesse James a outlaw???? Oh my gosh, my golly.... I think we have Sandy to thank for this one, but she didn't know what was coming either... I would much rather hear more serious reports like we are searching for solutions to get the ma and pa back to being able to sell their bread and eggs and allowing people to have the pride in their towns and heritage and history... I believe in backing locals to help insure they will be there and share in a need for one another... For myself. I am for family and community and food... not some show off meal that cost a fortune... but wonderful, nourishing, flavorful food... The wonderful and deserving old ways of meaning and life will be much better is we are all serving up old fashion pieces of history instead of all the SPAM we receive today... SPAM was something in a can we ate when money may be a bit tight for groceries but still provided nourishment... { Mom use to place cloves with a couple teaspoons brown sugar and bake it like a ham for about a half hour... I crave that good old taste of the past every once in awhile} Now days SPAM doesn't nourish the body but plays with the mind.... Seems as though we must get ourselves to return to the building on the past and increase our art of reinvention...To know something is beautiful inside as out....

Enduring Times

2011-07-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

Everyday Life... Do we really ever see the bumpy roads that many have to endure? I think many times we only see the outside believing one may have the life of Cinderella...
I know many who are truly having to be very courageous through these summer months... Dealing with illness, finances, failed marriages.. ect.. Enduring these times we are at our best by being honest and down right inspiring... Tempers are flaring as our government are supposedly trying to fix our nation, and all the people really want is what is right, fair and equal treatment... It is for sure that no one seems to have the right recipe...
This morning has not been especially good one... as I am pressing hard to squash out negative thoughts and not waste time on them... So much seems to surround us and most of the time we do not have the ability to change people... Many times in the thought process I believe my life has been spinning since my teens and seems many of the times I am requesting for it to "Stop and let me get off.." Waking up this morning was one of realizing" I am not sleeping on no feather bed...." I am thinking I am just going to have to head to the kitchen before our fore casted in the 90's day totally slips in and make something that has wonderful aroma and causes pure delight as you partake of many little bites of contentment... Hum.. that is sounding like something chocolate and maybe brownies can fill that order.... and then there is that ice cream in the freezer that may taste good on a warm afternoon... OK... as I continue to realize throughout this post you can never be sure of anything lasting too long, success or happiness .... it is a must that we seize those moments.... when they are here and enjoy each and every moment...
I wish there were a iron clad way of fulfilling lives with love and passions and making it last... and throwing away negative thinking and walking under ladders with total confidence... but life seems to be a bit like a wrapped gift... you never know quite what is awaiting you inside......
PS. I just wanted to add a very good thought sent to me by a comment... She very positively stated that the bad times do not last forever either.... Now that is the power of positive thinking ... and inspiration we all need.... Blessings...

Just Chillin'

2011-07-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

I am taking a couple hours out this afternoon and just chillin'... I played ladies golf league this morning and no chillin' there so when I arrived home I spent a couple hours in the pool... It is a warm day in the 80's but there is a wonder full breeze and it is just very comfortable... Unlike the last couple weeks... I just jumped out of my suit and into everyday clothes and decided to spend some time with you all.
Some inspiration would be well received today... When I golf I usually do not get many chores done that day... Tuesday is a day I spend more time just for myself... Now that I have floated in the pool for a couple hours... I know not much is on the list... Now I can just dream....
A creative mind is always thinking... Always paying attention to detail... I honestly believe one can turn any space into a dream space... sticking to a clean and soft palette and the addition of charm... Most of us are not blessed with the space we would really love to have... I do however think there is much to be said about working with older spaces... Usually the construction itself has more character... I find many new spaces to a a very sterile appeal to them. This is sometimes difficult to break.. When something is not in your taste or within our budget that is when we can bring forth our very best... I love the word relaxed... and it is very important... Something that has never stopped being a good anchor for a space is a mirror... The appearance of more space is added and the reflection is a wonderful addition... We all know beautiful things "delight".. Making sure not to over collect { guilty} and just touches of the girly { I use more} can bring elegance.. Relaxation and Elegance... Two great combinations... Now I am off to other blogs and see if I can find inspiration and put these two to work... Blessings sent your way...

Double Dipping

2011-07-25T06:48:00.000-07:00

Another blazing hot weekend ... more days of double dipping.... I was in the pool 3 times yesterday and took 3 baths in oils... I think I have found a good excuse for my wrinkles... I have not been able to do all the chores I would like but have just told myself they would all be waiting when the weather cools down of which will not be again this week....Rain was all around us yesterday but we received not a drop.... My son and my granddaughter spent the afternoon with us and the pool was loved by Olivia.... Later after dark it was also enjoyed by Tom's daughter Trish and her son Lance... I think they are getting into the after dark swims... We are still awaiting the arrival of the work crew to tear out our old pool and dig and replace it with a new one... The new one will be wonderful to swim in as it will have lights under the water.... Makes the swim extra special... I have shared some lovely bath areas with you today... I have a nice bath area but can dream of lovely spaces such as this to double dip in.... I just got out from a morning dip... It is off to town for groceries in a bit when Tom arrives home from golfing.... I have a feeling I will be dipping on and off all day........

Pics from....http://villaanna.blogspot.com and from http://www.countryliving.com

A Few Vintage Objects And Creations

2011-07-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

The morning hours started out in the 80's ... I am doing a few chores before it becomes to hot to complete any... Tomorrow it is suppose to be the 100's and that is almost unheard of here in Ohio... Guess we are breaking all kind of records that I am not too enthused about breaking... It is so hazy and hot already...

What is a new trend that you are liking to use in decorating in your home... I am not usually very trendy... but I still have desires for some French and just romantic treasures....

As the heat and day progresses I plan on spending some time on maybe searching out a couple flea market finds from blogsphere... I have a urge to change out a few displays again by just playing the old musical spots game once again... with my existing objects... and maybe a tuck of a new object to please the eye... As we would all like our homes as pretty and charming as homes featured in magazine we sometimes find this hard to so as we may not have all the sources available as many do... I just try very hard to pride myself on creating what objects and sources are available to me... Such as the salvage grain sacks I have created with... I did find a few objects that I would love to have and change out but "GASPED" when I saw the prices being asked for these beautiful and desirable but out of reach items... I am having enough problems taking in oxygen with the heat and just admitted it would be lovely but not for me... I am not will to fall short to wants and pay prices that are not in my budget and have regrets later... I made those type of mistakes in younger years and will not repeat that again...

In my quest to use what is available I want to share with you today .. a remnant grain sack runner with the addition of a Battenburg vintage lace dresser scarf... I made more pillows but will share a couple with you today... The one pillow was created with a patched grain sack... a old photo... very old lace and a rhinestone brooch... The other pillow was salvage grain sack with the simple word antiques written in French... I plan to embellish this one more when I go to my stash and search for something that will work .... I did stop in a antique store the other day and spend 7.00 on old lace... not shown and a lovely little bunch of vintage pretty buttons for display or altered art... and a lovely old photo I plan on using for a altered art journal cover page... I hope all of you that are dealing with the heat find shelter from it and only do things that will be good to yourself... as we continue our journey through this week... Blessings....

Struggling Through Our Hot Days

2011-07-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

Oh My.... I have been MIA the past couple days... I am trying to struggle through the heat... Right here in my area we did not get the rain that some of the surrounding areas received and we need it so very badly... Our area is really hurting... The next few days are to be dangerously hot....
Yesterday to beat the heat Tom and drove up into Michigan to go to a casino all day ... they keep the air so high you have to wear a sweater to be comfortable.
This morning I had ladies golf league and by the time we were on the last couple holes I was totally done in .... The sun was so hot... After returning home I didn't even want to be outside in the pool... I just went to the bath and soaked in bath oil...
I did complete some grain sack pillows and a grain sack runner I will share with you in the next couple days when I take a few pics of them...
I think if I had my choice of something to do I would love to be a lovely antique shop that has it's air on high and just hunt for a lovely vintage French piece...Since I have no plans on leaving the house the next couple days .... hum... that option could be available to me ... I can shop from coast to coast on the Internet... remembering when you create a home no matter what your style as long as it reflects the people that live there it can be enjoyed by all who enter... However for today I am going to bottle and cap things up for a couple days and only do the necessary chores till Mother Nature changes her ways... and gives us some cooler weather and some much needed rain...
I am off to fold some laundry.... before doing so wanted to wish you all a pleasant evening and hope your day was blessed with something special today...

Savoring The Summer Season And Blessings Available To Me...

2011-07-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

I am trying to savor the summer season as we sneak into a weekend once again with no rain and 90 degree forecasts. The past 2 days have been cooler and evenings down right chilly but I have enjoyed it... I know fall is lurking right around the corner and soon our swimsuits and sandals will disappear...Soon thoughts of warmer colors and heavier fabrics will appear... The trees in our yard are starting to shed leaves that are starving for water as they dry up... due to our lack of rain..
Today I seem to be in a mellow sort of mood... a mood where I wish I could place every ones dreams and wishes and hopes in a bottle... set them afloat ... and when they are found and opened the bottled up thoughts and hopes would all come true... With all the sadness in our world it just seems to be a refreshing thought but knowing life itself is not perfect... that's where the wisdom to enjoy all the tiniest of pleasures come in to help us with the more difficult times... We really MUST find things that creates pleasure for us even if it comes through the reading or inspiration of a magazine or books... I worked through some of my chores this morning and have my bathing suit on awaiting the arrival of the sun for a half hour or so around 11:00 a.m. It has been a hazy morning so far... The weekend temps will be too hot for me to indulge in this small pleasure but a occasional dip will do.. It think my pleasures of blogging is that we read of lovely things being done for others... In our news and media coverage we learn of so much sadness and miss doing .. I read a post this morning by June http://laughingwithangels.blogspot.com/ that the title was " So Far Behind .. That I think I Am First" that brought a large smile to my face a loud chuckle... I know I have had the exact feeling all summer long... Then in a different shade of life a beautiful post by Jodi http://jodielejeune.blogspot.com/ sharing her thoughts and inner most feelings of a loss to her husband and herself...
I usually post in the mornings as I try to share my thoughts as I sip my coffee in the peace of a country side home... Many of the post I read this morning were on where blogger create and I enjoyed also viewing some of their lovely space.. I have a desire also to have a lovely space as no one would want to see where I create.. ugh.. but for now I will just be content with what I have available to me as I am certainly not hurting in any way for anything as I continue to be blessed and I will continue to just be very Thankful... Sending you all best wishes for a lovely weekend and many blessings ......

Bringing Back Childhood Memories

2011-07-14T05:15:00.001-07:00

In the summer months memories of my childhood and upbringing become very predominant as grandchildren frequent on a daily basis to swim and bring many friends with them... running from place to place doing everything possible in the time a day will allow... Life is soooo different now compared to back when I was in my young years... There is a peace connected with them to what takes place now... I was allowed to swim in a community pool also but only after chores had been done to earn enough money to take me swimming for the afternoon..This took place from a younger child through my teens....A exact time was set for you to be home at noon and at 6:00 for meals and you best be there... and when meals completed as a family ready to clean up and do dishes... Kids do not know what a chore is and certainly don't seem to know what it is to sit as a family at a meal... It seems that any snack from a bag will do and don't know what a balanced meal is cause they won't try it... Tom and I both become very disturbed at that... he came from a family of 10 children and meals were prepared at the same time everyday as it was in my family.... I know things are different now and many women work out and most homes aren't filled with a home-made cookie for a afternoon snack but.... mainly I see it is not a desire to prepare a meal for one's family... It is all about so called fun and I certainly know wonderful parts and joys of being and doing things as a family and for a family are being lost and find this to be very sad....Most younger families would call it being old fashion but I call it lost of tradition and a solid way of life... Feeding and providing nourishment should be one of life's greatest gifts and simple pleasures as there can be nothing more satisfying than good food... With all the modern day gadgets and aids.. making things quite easy... It does take some planning however and seems one's car doesn't set long enough in one place to be successful with that... Look at the old ways and maybe find a updates way as everything seem to be a convince now to care for your family... Bring your family together at a table for a meal... The old ways are still the best ways without a doubt in my mind... It is always wonderful when someone says " what is cooking in the kitchen" as their senses make them very aware something wonderful is going on in there... As you proudly feather your nest and make life rewarding for yourself and your family.... If you must be on the run, picnics can be packed with some very nourishing lunches and QUALITY time spend as you take minutes to share... maybe instead of running through that drive thru...
Plan your menu a day ahead of time if it is a problem for you... Yesterday I picked.. snapped and cleaned green beans they will be placed in a kettle and prepared today... for this evening supper... It is just as easy and simple as that... Take time to bring back and enjoy the old fashion so called ways and I can tell you they will be rewarding for your family and yourself...
Pic from...
http://jackandjillinteriors.blogspot.com

Appreciating The Outdoors Enhances One's Life

2011-07-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

The happiest people don't have it all.. They make the best out of what they have.... Many times I must remind myself of the truths to these words....
Outdoor spaces allows everyone to spread out on decks, benches, chairs and enjoy the glowing moon in the evening hours with enhanced outdoor lighting to add to the ambiance... It may require alittle work keeping outdoor spaces comfortable but to me it is well worth it... Appreciating the outdoors enhances one' life... I always love the look of a bistro table as it seems to add a touch of intimacy.. Umbrellas are a must on my list also...

I have featured a lovely bistro table and a beautiful idea for a ivy screen created with chain and copper K-style gutters... http://www.marthastewart.com The other picture of the bistro table can be found on http://www.decor-medley.com/outdoor-decorating.html

Old Silverware

2011-07-12T16:47:00.000-07:00

I love old silverware...especially engraved and with embellishment... I wanted to share a very simple but sweet way to add a name card to the setting.. A simple wrapped with ribbon or cord and the fork to hold the name card can be a simple but little extra thought when inviting guests or a little something for a special dinner night...

Pictures from..http://www.countryliving.com and http://www.myhomeideas.com

Inspiration For Small Gatherings

2011-07-11T08:47:00.001-07:00

Floral straws for your party ideas ???? This is a very sweet idea for making your drinks irresistible... The idea is soft in color and can be found on http://www.marthastewart.com on outdoor party ideas... Imagine serving and sipping iced beverages with this clever budget friendly idea... I am thinking my style may be accomplished by using unbleached coffee filters cut into petal shapes and a aged book page center...

In the table and chairs picture you will notice the use of a bundt pan as a way of adding a centerpiece or floating candles with the umbrella stand pole placed down through the center of the pan.... If you want a arranged centerpiece it can be accomplished by adding floral foam and arranging....

Letting your mind wonder and creativity set in can be quite rewarding for yourself and your guests..

When entertaining with a style all your own it becomes a way for all of us to beat the heat and bring more enjoyment to what is this year very hot and very dry... in my area of Ohio.

I am believing through women liberation many times we tend not to put the effort in to making small gatherings as special as they could be... for ourselves friends and family... We need to make a comeback in providing special welcome offerings to those who enter our homes...

Arm yourself with some great inspiration and enjoy the time sent providing lovely gatherings....

Learning Not To Sweat The Small Stuff

2011-07-08T10:18:00.001-07:00

Oh, maybe today was suppose to be a non post day, as Blogger lost my whole post after I had it completed...grrrrr.... I spent time over to the golf course this morning with a make up league game.. This morning was lovely as the gentle breezes kept us cool and allowed me to swing away freely and I scored quite well... Coming home I watered the front yard of plants that are struggling with the heat and dryness. Just finished 2 loads of laundry and lunch and dishes... I am thinking a sort shut down and a nap may be a good move before taking on our evening of golfing... eating... and some Keno.... that is on the agenda for later this late afternoon...
I do continue to be amazed at the talent of fellow bloggers that I frequent and the inspiring posts... It is lovely to share thoughts and lifestyles with others... Many are much more posh than mine but I still continue the ways that are available to me to try to make my home, welcoming and cozy. There are many other factors that make a house a home such as friends... family... and the treats and nourishment that come from out kitchens... These are some of our life's joys and simplest pleasures and learning to enjoy and realize this is so very important to our well beings...
With living there has to be a peace... I am still trying to learn this to a full degree and not to sweat the small stuff... as I sweat enough with the 90 degree temps we have been having... Wishing you all a lovely evening and sending the very best of wishes to you.....

Do You Ever Feel Like You Need A Hide-A-Way?

2011-07-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like you need to go to a hide-a-way? I just need a very small bag for a little break.... I have come to the conclusion before and now know I look forward to the ideas of summer but when it actually arrives most times I find myself not really enjoying it much... For instance... I put all the hoses we own together and made my way out to the wilting garden to try to save the plants as they try to blossom and wilt as the same time due to our lack of rain now... I hate the fact that this food is suffering and much nourishment will go to waste if I don't try to help it... As I went about this deed the flies... mosquitoes and bugs in general just attack me... I was so hot and overwhelmed with it all ... I just went for a dip in the pool for several minutes to get refreshed... I was just plain miserable and find myself this way allot of the time...
I had wishes for a place to run away and hide and be surrounded with quiet times and lovely objects... I find this hard to do sometimes in the confines of your home as guilt of chores to be done creeps in... Ok, I am admitting I really really don't like summer and anything above about 82 degrees becomes a real challenge for me...
I love collecting vintage but need to only purchase a object that become family.. Otherwise it all just becomes junk... especially when acting on impulse... Since I really can't afford a trip to Paris and my desires would be to add some more French in my home those desires become a bit snuffed also... The only thing that seems to be left is the use of some creativity... I have several cards to make this month for all different occasions... pillows I started to finish... and sale items to be sorted and priced plus everyday chores to be accomplished... Seems to be far too many things for the hot... hot... days in the forecast to come....
I was able to go to the garden this morning and get my first picking of green beans and now have them snapped and cleaned and in the kettle and bacon frying for green beans, bacon, and potatoes for supper tonight... One cucumber was ready for picking so he is sliced and setting in brine for this noons lunch with a burger.... the aroma of the bacon and greens beans as they are cooking in the kettle is beginning to fill the house with a wonderful aroma of homemade seems to make things some what more relaxed... I may have to take a few moments to refresh in the pool this afternoon as I try to complete my daily chores....Many times the refreshment of cool pool water renews our body and our spirit and seems I need all the assistance I need as we pass through these summer dry days... Sending you all blessings and best wishes and may all your dreams come true... Rain is on the top of my wish list and hopes.... as it does seem to refresh everything that surrounds us....

It' Hot and Dry....Good Ole Summertime...

2011-07-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

Okay... I have put it off long enough.. I must get myself focused on having a sale as the back bedroom lays half full of priced sale items and my house needs to be thinned down in objects sitting around... I really need to simplify more for myself and just keep the best of the best and the things I love the most.. The time is here. I need to step up to the plate...
In my combining and mixing of everything I so seem to avoid trendy... I still have a desire to mix a few French but I must part with some things before I do this... It is getting too bulky...
It is late afternoon and we just finished with running to Defiance and taking care of some bills... purchasing chemicals for the pool.. and buying groceries... It was a very very expensive day.... We are off to Hicksville to watch the grandson play in a all star baseball tournament and then back to Defiance for the second part of a championship Tinora ACME game.... at 8:00... We will be back late tonight.... For now I have about a hour before we leave and I am off to plunge into the pool for a half hour as the temp is in the 90's and very humid... Hot.. Hot... Hot...

Oh Happy Days

2011-07-05T06:53:00.001-07:00

Oh Happy Days .... the holiday weekend has passed us and it's back to everyday living... although I allowed myself to become behind with my chores... Have been out of doors most of the morning as I clean the outdoor spaces... laundry and placing objects that are out of place back into their proper homes... Just washed the china and changed the water in my little china water feature... Guess you get the idea what is going on today... in my neck of the woods... I won't be on the net too long today as I have many chores awaiting me... The temp's are to rise into the 90's the next couple days... Today as I sort and straighten.. I have no other choice but to mix all things together and try to create the feel of comfy and togetherness. Last evening we visited our friends, which have just moved into a condo the past couple weeks and have purchased almost everything brand new to furnish it.. Very... very ... lovely... As I arrived home and today I am looking about and realizing how spend everything in my home looks in comparison... I have no choice but to pick it up... dust it off and place it back.... The countryside is very, very, dry right now and not having central air I must have the windows open and the dust and dirt level is high as the roads and fields are in use... Just seems I have too many extra chores and no help..... Tom is off golfing out of town and will arrive home probably about one... want to eat and then return to a different golf course for a league night till dusk... If you wonder..." No "... he's not rich and "No" he's not famous...
As I type the large work horses have made their ways to the fields to harvest the amber waves of grain and get them off to market.... Sounds of wagons bouncing up and down the fields and roads can be heard as the farmer pray for rain... Hope you all had a lovely holiday and can return to a lovely week....

Wishing All A Safe And Happy Fourth Of July

2011-07-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

Independence Day commonly know as the Fourth Of July is a Federal holiday in the U.S. commemorating the adoption of the Declaration Of Independence on July 4, 1776... Every day thousands leave their homeland to come to the "land of the free and the home of the brave" so they can live the American dream.. Each year as we celebrate with picnics and family gatherings and vacations we invite other nations to celebrate with us ... I just wanted to take some moments to wish all a happy and safe Fourth as I feel the temps starting to rise... Yesterday day got very uncomfortable for me as the temp reached 95 degrees... Today we are to reach 85 degrees... Not any plans today but tomorrow we will golf in a mixed couple scramble that begins at 9:00 a.m. After all the rain we had this spring we are now begging for rain as everything is drying up and the crops are once again under stress... It has certainly been a season to remember.... Enjoy the holiday and do remember most all of us are very blessed here in the states and should be proud and cherish Independence Day.... Let the fireworks begin......

Peaceful Holiday and Family Time

2011-07-01T07:25:00.001-07:00

I have been up since 6:30 a.m. preparing for Tom's son and family that are arrived from Indianapolis, Indiana this morning... Tom and his son.. daughter and grandson are off to Wauseon golfing as I am posting and Jen went to spend some time with her side of the family.... I am to have a meal prepared for them when they return later this afternoon so have been hitting those pots and pans...

I have shared with you a few more of the shots I took when attending the garden walk last week... These shots are more of a casual... re-purpose type of gardens and were very appealing and sweet... While viewing gardens and homes I always love hearing comments that people think and say about others homes... Some are pleasing and some may be said in rather a negative manner.. What one person finds attractive the other may find are very pleasing to the eye... Just as some objects rejected by one person may be waiting for another to fall in love with them all over again... The one home I posted about on the first garden post was just all over the moon comments ... Some knew they could not live in that style however and found it to be quite exquisite however as I did... Usually my thoughts tend to lend itself to how creative a person is... I love hat they just do not go out and buy expensive items and create something unique....

You certainly do not have to have the finest to offer simple kindness of sharing and offering simple offerings of coming for coffee, or iced beverages... I believe it is important however if just a friend or two is coming to use china and glass for serving and not paper or plastic... I know paper is great for larger gatherings and I am using paper today cause it is a large gathering and the grandkids ect. really don't have a appreciation for china... as your friends may feel that they are special when using this treatment... Even thought you want to be informal this is a sure way of adding a touch of class and I know we all love that now and then... Gifts from grandmothers home and belongings ... along with some blooms may such always be the perfect touch of sweetness and just a hint of romance when presented in this manner...

Sending out wishes that you all have a peaceful but very happy and safe Fourth Of July.... We do not have allot of plans... private fireworks on Sat.. maybe and a mixed couples golf outing on Monday..{ was there any doubt of that} ans sounds as though it may be a very good pool weekend..... Temps are suppose to edge right up into the 90's and that will heat up out pool water once again from our chilly nights...

Many blessed moments over this holiday wishes for you.....

Another Lovely Home In The Country

2011-06-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share another lovely country home here in Ohio in our neck of the woods that was on the garden tour... This home is colorful.. serene and the perfect place to sit ... read... think... talk... or just enjoy the lovely country view... There is a waterfall with a coy pond and another larger pond surrounding... The geraniums you see pictures are all grown from seed by the home owners... It is quite beautiful... I love the last pic of the wagon that is featured in the back yard and the truck that was ever so present in the pic... The old way of travel and the new way of travel...

Short post today as it has been quite a full day... I golfed league this morning ... came home and we had visitation at the funeral home... we stopped and bought a few groceries to prepare a dish for the funereal dinner tomorrow morning... I am frying bacon for BLT's before we attend the grandson's baseball game at 5:00 and we are invited at 7:00 to a friends house with another couple for card playing and conversation... A very full day indeed...