Heirlooms

Happy News!

2012-01-08T20:11:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give a little heads up why I've been away from blogging...and probably won't be back for a few weeks. Because STEVE RETIRED!!! Yep, after 29 years in Law Enforcement, his last day was December 23rd.

We have friends and family flying in tomorrow to help celebrate at his retirement party this Thursday.

I can't be more thrilled. It's taken a little adjusting to Steve being home..all in a good way. Mostly it feels like every day is Saturday, so I have to keep looking at the calendar to keep track of the days. ;-)

We'll be busy most of this month, and hope to settle into a schedule of sorts in February..which for me includes blogging more often!!

"I have no porch, no rocking chair~and no time. My biggest need is a calendar because there are so many things to do. Now I encourage people to retire~the younger the better." ~{Maurice Musholt}

New Year~New Sitting Room!

2012-01-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make...While I had the Christmas decorations up, I was already fretting about how I would re-decorate in January. Like most of you decorating bloggers out there, I had the urge for something new and fresh, but didn't want to spend any money. I also was so accustomed to looking at my things that I lacked creativity and inspiration to think of anything new.

Enter my dear friend, Sandy, from The Olive and Rose. She was literally an answer to prayer when she offered to come and breathe a fresh look into my sitting room and dining room. (Pics of the dining room will come later!) We had spent some time earlier discussing what kind of 'feel' I wanted, which was pretty and romantic. I had also thought of pulling the rug from under the dining table and setting it in the sitting room. One of the first things she did was arrange the furniture, then suggested we put all the paintings of my all-time favorite artist (and Sandy's friend!) Christie Repasy together in the room. (I had had them scattered about in different rooms of the house)...so here is the reveal! :

TA-DA!!

Sandy also knows how much I like the 'Magnolia Pearl' look and I love how she incorporated that style into the room, too! I'd had the gorgeous vintage drapery panel and she suggested I cut it in two to flank each side of the windows, then layer lace along the valance. I was so happy to have yet another way to display my collection of doilies!

I love the vignettes Sandy created. Later, I found a mirror and hung it behind this display to double the sparkle.

My mother's cherished cocoa pot and thrift store dish and teacup compliment Christie's painting beautifully!

Sandy captured what I had envisioned..a beautiful, soothing. romantic retreat..right in my own home!

I am eternally grateful to her!!

"But when women are moved and lend help, when women, who are by nature calm and controlled, give encouragement and applause, when virtuous and knowledgeable women grace the endeavor with their sweet love, then it is invincible."

~ {Jose Marti}

I am linking up to Met Monday at Between Naps on The Porch

A New Year!

2012-01-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

(photo by Amy Ernst)

This is what the Lord says:

"Stand at the crossroads and look;

ask for ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls."

Jeremiah 6:16

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T17:42:00.000-08:00

“Forget about what’s happened! Don’t keep going over old history. Be alert! Be present! I’m about to do something brand new. It’s bursting out. Don’t you see it? There it is! I’m making a road in the desert and rivers in the badlands.” Isaiah 43:18-19 {The Message}

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T09:14:00.000-08:00

More Than an Heirloom

2011-12-23T05:02:00.000-08:00

Up in the attic

Down on my knees

Lifetimes of boxes

Timeless to me

Letters and photographs

Yellowed with years

Some bringing laughter

Some bringing tears

Time never changes

The memories, the faces of loved ones, who bring to me

All that I come from

And all that I live for

And all that I'm going to be...

My precious family

Is more than an heirloom to me.

Wisemen and shepherds

Down on their knees

Bringing their treasures

To lay at his feet

Who was this wonder baby yet king

Living and dying

He gave life to me

Time never changes

The memory, the moment His love first pierced through me

Telling all that I come from

And all that I live for

And all that I'm going to be~

My precious savior

Is more than an heirloom to me

My precious Jesus is more than an heirloom to me.

White Christmas

2011-12-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Our youngest son, Caleb, just finished college so we had a little celebratory dinner for him with a few of his closest friends. He will "walk" in May and then we'll have a BIG party! ;-)

I made this Congratulations banner..it barely fit over the window!

My color scheme was whites/creams/silver/and black....

..a frosty table scape! ;-)

I just picked up these stemmed candle holders from Michael's the other day..$5 each!!

The 'snowflakes', and silver cones came from Dollar Tree a few years ago. And the pretty stemmed wine glasses I scored at a garage sale this summer for 25 cents a piece!! Everything else I've had for years..

I am linking up for White Wednesdays over a Faded Charm, and Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday.

'May your days be merry and bright...and may all your Christmases be white!'

Christmas Home Tour

2011-12-14T20:01:00.000-08:00

Greetings! Welcome to my Christmas Home Tour! We are starting out in the entry way, and if you'd like to see more of the banister..go here.

To the left of the entry is our sitting room..it's all toasty warm with the fire going..

(for more of the sitting room, go here)

...and stepping down into the sitting room is the view of our formal dining room.

Here is another view of the dining room.

And back at the entry, if you turn right,

It leads you into the family room..

Here is the family room with our Santa theme..

On towards the kitchen is the Hoosier all decked out in white and silver.

And this is the kitchen..all ready for a party!!

This is a view into the dining room from the kitchen..

And the 'loo'!! The shower curtain reads green pictures, but in real life it is aqua..funny how that happens.

There is a door that leads to another bedroom..I hung a curtain there as it is never used and afforded me another place to decorate! ;-)

And I leave you with this sweet vignette on the back of the commode! LOL!

Thank you for visiting..hope you enjoyed the tour.

I am linking up with Jennifer Rizzo , The Inspired Room and Savvy City Farmer for the Christmas Home Tours.

From home to home,and heart to heart,from one place to another.The warmth and joy of Christmas brings us closer to each other. {Emily Matthews}

The Sitting Room by Firelight

2011-12-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

So, I thought I'd show you the Christmas decor in the sitting room by firelight, but it didn't turn out quite like I'd imagined.

I don't know whether to blame it on the camera or the photographer...(although I am almost positive it's the lack of my skills behind the camera.)

I haven't been feeling well and therefore unmotivated to shoot these pics all over again after I found how they'd turn out once I got them uploaded.

But, hopefully, you can see past the grainy, hazy pictures and see what I was trying to convey..

..quiet Christmas beauty, using mostly things I have out year around and embellished with Christmasy accouterments.

I will probably take more again in the daylight..along with pics of the rest of the house..see ya soon!

I am linking up with The House In the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday, and Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday

There's more, much more, to Christmas Than candlelight and cheer; It's the spirit of sweet friendship That brightens all year. It's thoughtfulness and kindness, It's hope reborn again, For peace, for understanding, And for goodwill to men!

Christmas Banister

2011-12-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

One of the many things I love (and appreciate) about Christmas decorating is the help I get..my daughter Courtney, decorates all of the family room, and my husband, Steve, sets up the trees and most of the garlands. It doesn't look like this when he pulls it out of the box. The greenery is older--before they came with lights attached to them. So he has to re-attach and connect the lights, makes sure they are all evenly distributed and then wires it to the banister, calling me to check to make sure it "swoops" in all the right places! :-)

And then I get the fun part..decorating the greens. Winston's favorite part is being in the pictures!

I usually buy a few things at 75% after Christmas the year before to add to the garland. But this year I found this sparkly red ivy pick at Michael's for 50% off and bought a few..

The Poinsettia, bird's nest, berries, and mesh ribbon have adorned this garland for years..

And on the other side of the banister that faces the sitting room, I stuck in wine colored roses to compliment the colors from there.

Today I am linking up with:

DIY By Design

and

Savvy Southern Style

I hope you check out those fabulous blogs..and peruse thru the amazing ideas and decor that many bloggers are offering!

"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas." -- Calvin Coolidge

Christmas Mantle

2011-12-06T11:40:00.000-08:00

This is the mantle in our sitting room decorated for Christmas.

This year I decided to showcase the cute carolers that usually sit out on our front porch,

along with the lanterns (a garage sale find that Courtney scored). I guess this puts a new take on the phrase "bringing the outdoors, in", huh?! :-D

I wove in 'sheet music' ribbon in amongst the garland..

and attached vintage musical horns..heirlooms from my mother. I remember when I was a little girl, blowing into the horns..they actually make a sound!

And the three carolers remind me of my own children when they were young. So I guess this mantle could be called "Nostalgic Christmas!"

I am linking up to Mantle Link Party at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

and

Tabletop Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life

Fa-la-la-la!!

2011-12-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

..So here is the "BEFORE" in our family room...

..and here is the Christmas decor that my daughter, Courtney, did.. she left the shelves on the left as is because we will put our tree there and it hides the shelves anyway..

I am thrilled that Courtney decorates the family room and I LOVE her styling!!

The vintage book "Night Before Christmas" was a thrift store find! And the darling "Merry Christmas" blocks were hand painted made by my dear friend, Judy.

We've acquired quite a few Christmas decorations over the 33 years of marriage..Steve and I would shop the sales after Christmas for decorations. We don't do that anymore!! ;-)

I love Courtney's 'vignettes' on the shelves...I'll be showing more of her decorating in the family room later.

I am linking up to Met Monday at Between Naps on the Porch.

Cheers!

I've Decked the Halls!

2011-12-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

More to come on Monday!!

“Christmas gift suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect.”

{Oren Arnold}

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

"Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence."

{Erma Bombeck}

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

A Touch of Fall, Part 2

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hi! I've got just a few pics of the little Fall Decor I did~outside and in the family room..

Pumpkins and gourds and mums greet you at the front door..

And this little table with the birdcage is out all year round..I just change out the decor to match the season..easy peasy!

And in the family room I did a tiny bit of decorating..the mantle, the coffee table,

and the oak cabinet..

A couple views of the bookcase. By next week the whole room will be tricked out in Christmas!!

Hope you have a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!!

So once in every year we throng

Upon a day apart,

To praise the Lord with feast and song

In thankfulness of heart.

~Arthur Guiterman, The First Thanksgiving

A Touch of Fall

2011-11-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

Greetings! Life has been calling me in other directions other than blogging and decorating recently..but I managed to do a little fall embellishments~I'll share another pic on Wednesday, right before the transformation to Christmas! So the above pic is Before Fall..and below is the After:

I kept some basics there (the lamp, mirror, tray, dish for pumpkins and runner) and added the fall touches. It makes it so much easier when you can use what you already have out and tweak it a little to compliment the holiday!

I am linking up to Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday, and A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday.

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.

Albert Camus

Daphne Nicole and Lynda Cade's Giveaway..!

2011-10-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to announce that Daphne is hosting another giveaway! One of her fabulous purses!!

Isn't it stunning?? Pop over and enter! The Giveaway ends October 31!

A Day in the Life of Lindy

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed I've been away from my blog for awhile. One of my BFF's, Susan, calls it my bi-annual slump. I go through a period of time when I feel dried up, creatively, emotionally, etc. Feeling like I have nothing to say, nothing to offer. I have come to accept this side of me, knowing that 'this too, shall pass'.

But I wasn't exactly moping around the house all the time~just part of the time. LOL!

One sure-fire way to pull one out of a slump is to spend time with this little cutie-pie. I recently had the opportunity to fly down for a visit and had the joy of watching her for two days of my five day visit while her parents were away.

So this is Lindy first thing in the morning..happy and ready for her and bunny to be picked up...

We watched a little Barney while Lindy had her milk and Grandma, I mean MiMi (that's what she's named me!) had her coffee..

Breakfast, then packed a snack and off we went on a walk. They live 500 ft. from the ocean, but I took the long way around, ending up there...

Purty flower to show me..

On the pier..

Lunch time, then a nap! Oh, and Lindy took a nap too.. ;-)

After nap, Play-Doh! We had so much fun..she made me laugh constantly..what is that verse? "A cheerful heart is good medicine" (Proverbs 17:22)

That night Zac and Amy got home and the next day Amy, Lindy and I were off to go shopping!!

Lindy with her beautiful Mama, Amy.

..and her handsome Daddy, Zac.

Morning on the beach..

"A girl is Innocence playing in the mud, Beauty standing on its head,
and Motherhood dragging a doll by the foot"

~ Allan Beck ~

Tabletop Tuesday

2011-09-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have been craving color as of late..and added some to our family room just as summer is waning.

Here is a little vignette I put together on our coffee table. I have a huge wooden tray with a glass insert that I've displayed my vintage hankie collection~all protected behind the glass! Set on top is a grouping of fun thrift shop/garage sale finds..except for the roses from our garden, and the lovely mirrored plateau~a treasured gift from one of my BFFs, Laura!

I've been really attracted to blue and turquoise recently, and I think when I start my fall decorating I will incorporate it into my autumn embellishments! I'm thinkin' it'll be beautiful with coppers and browns..

Why keep jewelry in a drawer in the bedroom? I've wrapped a gorgeous necklace (another giftie from Laura!) around the top of the cloche and displayed a few others as offerings from the bunny...heirloom pieces from my mom and Steve's grandmother..love the added sparkle! I think I'll continue the theme with amber and yellow jewels when I set about to do my Fall decor. Until then, enjoy! Hope you have a wonderful day!

I am linking up with the lovely Marty, at A STROLL THRU LIFE for her Tablescape Tuesday party!

Met Monday...a little Blog Friend Swap!

2011-09-25T21:46:00.000-07:00

A little while ago I arranged a little 'swap' with my blog friend, CeeKay at Thinkin' of Home..

Mainly because when I saw this wine bag at our local grocery store, I thought of her (because this is just her style), and knew exactly what I wanted to do with it!! First, I glued down one side and cut open the other side and glued the flaps down. . Next, I began decorating each section and creatively covering up the logo.

Then I folded it accordion- style and glued at each crease creating 'pockets'.

Next, I began decorating each section and creatively covering up the logo.

I then created tags to fit inside each pocket..

So my metamorphosis was turning a wine bag into a "Tag Journal"!! :-)

And here is what the lovely CeeKay sent me!!

A beautiful work of art hanging!

Isn't it just gorgeous? I love it! Our swap was so much fun!!

I am linking to Between Naps on the Porch,

Amaze Me Mondays.

And Just a Girl.

The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention. {Mrs. Dunwoody}

Our Scented Garden

2011-07-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

When we first moved to this house there was a huge oak tree situated right in front..sadly we found out soon after moving in that it was in failure and had to be taken out. So then the front half of our yard was big mess o' nothing after the tree was removed. I envisioned a partitioning off with an arch and lovely, scented plants and flowers growing everywhere.

I am one of those blessed wives whose husband tries very hard to make all my dreams come true. He started off by installing a picket fence with an archway and planting fragrant honeysuckle to grow along it..and a small, planked 'bridge' of sorts inviting you to venture to the other side..

Once inside, one's sight and senses are enthralled by fragrant lavender, thyme, gardenia, roses and jasmine!

Walking across the carpet of thyme releases the captivating scent and relaxing in the chairs with a glass of iced tea..or wine in the evening ;-) is just heavenly!

Steve arranged darling garden figures to add whimsy and delight for me...

Gardenia and lavender..aaahhhh!

Sweet roses..

Sitting amongst the ivy and plants adds coolness and relief from summer's heat.

The view from the chair.....

..you feel so secluded as you can't be seen from the street.

Winston loves to romp here...

I am so grateful to Steve for creating this sanctuary for me!

I will be taking a bloggy break this week as our BFF's are coming to visit...in the mornings you will probably find us here with our coffee, catching up on life! Have a wonderful week!!

“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment”

~Jane Austen

Serenity in Scottsdale, AZ

2011-07-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

I must say..the heat did not bother me in Scottsdale. While my husband was getting a surprise honor at his business luncheon on Friday (more later), I enjoyed the view off my balcony at the hotel~in fact, I spent the afternoon there reading, studying, and writing. The sound of bubbling water is always so soothing to me..

The sweet soft clucking sound of a mother duck with her babies gliding along the pond added to my delight.

In the evening we relaxed...

I am happiest when I am with Steve and near some sort of water...pond, lake, river, stream,or fountain~it always nurtures my soul.

And may I just brag on this man of mine a little?? He was the recipient of a Career Achievement Award.

I am so proud of him and happy that he was recognized for all his hard work for the past 28 years with the California Alcoholic Beverage Control.

Every job is a self-portrait of the person who does it. Autograph your work with excellence. ~Author Unknown

Shopping in Scottsdale..

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

Karen and I went to several stores, but I'm only going to share my favorites..

the first one being The Embellished Home. Karen was sweet to pose in front of the shop! ;-)

Karen told me that it had originally been a bar called Drinkwater's..she liked how they paid homage to it..

This is their amazing bathroom!! I LOVED what they created!!

Beautiful!!

Next stop was Not Too Shabby...

Hi Karen!! Isn't she just the cutest thing?? ;-)

That's a little sampling of these darling shops!! Hope you enjoyed the tour!!

Back from Scottsdale, AZ

2011-07-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

Hi all!! I recently returned from accompanying my husband on a business trip to Scottsdale, AZ. When I found out I was going, I contacted the lovely, talented, world famous blogger, Karen Valentine from My Desert Cottage to see if she was free for a day..she WAS!! She graciously picked me up at my hotel and showed me around Scottsdale, her favorite stores AND took me to her fabulous house!! So, for White Wednesday, I am showing her BEAUTIFUL home!!

These pictures are of her living room..

The TV cabinet she painted white and decoupaged with sheet music..so clever!!

A table she painted and decoupaged in the corner of her living room..

Here is her family room. I just SWOONED over the beauty and creativity of it!!

Remember you can click on the picture to get a larger view and be able to take in all the gorgeousness of it!!

The formal dining room..

Love the gallery of displays..the three black framed pieces are her original art work..

The counter beyond her kitchen sink..

The breakfast nook...

The guest bath..

She glued fabric to the panels of the cabinets..beautiful!!

The serene sanctuary of the master bedroom..

WITH a fireplace!! How romantic!!

Everywhere you look were clever touches..Karen's attention to detail was amazing!!

Her mom had made this lace jacket in the '70's..isn't is SO Magnolia Pearl?? ;-)

And here is her studio..for more fabulous pictures of her studio, go here. Karen is the hostess of Where Blogger's Create..AND she is the one that made over my blog..which is her business~she has fabulous ideas and is so easy to work with!!

I had a wonderful time with Karen..she is beautiful, and sweet and kind and loving....stay tuned for pics of the shops she took me to!!

Every house where love abides

And friendship is a guest,

Is surely home, and home sweet home

For there the heart can rest.

~Henry Van Dyke

I'm Tickled Pink~~A Post From the Past..

2011-07-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

Thursday, August 7, 2008

I'm Tickled PINK!!

Our oven was dying a slow death. Had repair guys out several times, until you hear them say those dreaded words," I'm sorry, there's nothing more we can do.." I hung my head and sighed. Poor old oven. It lived longer than the typical life span of an oven--what--is it five years now? (rolling eyes and a bit of sarcasm in voice). We bought this house almost three years ago when it was twelve years old, and IMMEDIATELY the oven would not cooperate. It never did cook right. You couldn't trust the temperature--everything took twice as long to bake--very frustrating! Blessedly the home warranty people offered us a few hundred towards purchase a new one. THEN Steve said--"Well, since we have to replace our oven, let's get a double oven like we've always talked about." My reaction was as if he'd said "Honey, here's the credit card--go buy yourself a whole new wardrobe, heck, hire a personal shopper and go for it--money, no object!"

We've lived for YEARS with one oven. And got by fine. But, given the choice, and our love for entertaining and having our growing family over--life with two ovens will be wonderful!!

So, we've been out the past few nights searching for the best deal in town. Steve's good at that when it comes to the big important stuff, like cars and appliances--he researches online first,and goes from there. I'm good at the other, fun stuff, food, clothes, furniture, knick-knacks, paddy-whacks.

Whilst we were perusing one appliance store (R.C. Willey) my eye fell upon a coffee maker and I swear I heard angels singing. I floated over to it, and looked back at Steve with imploring eyes.

"It's PINK!" I said, "Have you ever seen a more beautiful coffee maker?"

Steve clearly did not hear the angels, but did have to agree that yes, it was--Pink. He looked at the price tag and frowned. "Lets check around elsewhere and see if this is the best price".

We did...noting that there wasn't a pink coffeemaker to be had anywhere. The next evening he announced that we'll go get that coffeemaker. OH! What Joy, What Bliss!!! So we motored over to R.C. Willey and took possession of a pink coffeemaker!! Not only that...it was the last one--the display and so they took $10.00 off!! A little blessing from the Lord, I'm sure! ;-)

Oh, and we got a sweet deal on a double oven--it will be arriving the last week of August....
And now, without further adieu--is my new pink coffee maker!! No longer stashed behind a cabinet, but out on the counter for all the world to see! Isn't it just the cutest thing?!

Life just turns deliciously quirky when you stop resisting yourself and, instead, honor the intuition that tugs at you like a puppy on a leash in the park. Follow the magic and magic starts to follow you. {Tama J. Kieves}

Giveaway News...

2011-07-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

Daphne Nicole and Lynda Cade are celebrating 400+ followers by hosting a giveaway! The 'prize' being this gorgeous purse!! Pop on over and enter...winner is announced August 1st.

Birdsong Tag Book Swap

2011-07-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

I am participating in Karla's Birdsong Tag Book Swap over at Karla's Cottage, and I thought I'd share pictures of my entries before I mailed them off. The theme, if you haven't caught on yet by the name ;-) is about birds..you make 7 tags and get 8 back, including one of Karla's tags, too. I had so much fun playing in her Alice Tag Swap ... you can see my entries here.

I used napkins that had a darling bird image on them..

...peeled off the layers of the napkin and adhered it to a blue tag..then embellished them with cuttings from an old doily, silk and velvet leaves along with beaded fringe.

That's a poker chip that I 'antiqued' with distressing ink, stamped a nest image and glued it on the chip for a little added dimension. Used fringy yarn for the ties..

Karla wanted us to sign the back along with our info, so the easiest thing for me was just to attach my business card to the back, and stamp the top. Off they go into the mail tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to seeing what I get back!! Fun-Fun-Fun!!

Use what talent you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best.

{Henry Van Dyke}

A Post from the Past~Balcony Bedroom

2011-07-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

I am having computer issues again. :-/ Can't upload pics, it seems. Sigh. So I decided to ~~steal~~ borrow Joy's idea at Savvy City Farmer and give you A Post From The Past. Hope you don't mind. If I can't figure this out, you may be getting summer repeats. Do ya mind?

Friday, August 21, 2009

Our Balcony Bedroom

This is the balcony off the master bedroom upstairs...

and this is what it usually looks like. But the heat of summer has gotten to me and I was longing for cool, fresh air. I decided to surprise Steve for his Furlough Friday weekend and turn our balcony into a romantic bedroom!

I wanted a light,romantic cottage look~different from our dark Victorian bedroom. First I looked thru my vintage pillow cases and ironed these darling embroidered ones..spritzing it with sweet smelling linen spray...

a close up of the beautiful embroidered work...I love the sweet birds!!

Then blew up our queen size air mattress that we normally use for camping...put the umbrella behind it, threw mosquito netting over it, pulled out a cute comforter I had packed away~haven't had a place to use it since we've moved here, but haven't wanted to get rid of it either. Then grabbed some pillows to match and ta-da!

Roses from our garden~I could even have a lamp outside because there's and electrical plug to use (which made it easy to inflate the mattress!!)

Not knowing what I had "cooked up" (pardon the pun) Steve called offering to pick up Greek Salad to bring home. I casually said "Great! We'll eat on the balcony!" :-)

So Steve came home and I pulled back the curtain of our sliding door for effect and Steve said "Wow! Neat! This looks really romantic! Now, where do you want me to put the food?" :-D

You know...a way to a man's heart is thru his stomach!! ;-)

Here are some pics after dark. I gotta get the hang of my camera and learn more about taking better pictures. Anyway ..yellow roses from our garden in a vintage Ball Canning jar...

And how our 'room' looks at night. It was lovely, sleeping out under the stars, fresh, cool breezes wafting about. Dreamy!

I have so much fun creating a romantic life. And I am so grateful Steve appreciates stuff like this!

Anyone can be passionate, but it takes real lovers to be silly. ~Rose Franken

Caleb's 25 Birthday~Tablescape

2011-06-30T07:18:00.000-07:00

We were out of town on our son's,Caleb, actual birthday..but we made up for it with a belated birthday dinner!

It's always a challenge for me when thinking of a theme for a guy. I went into his room to look for inspiration. 'Twas thinking of doing the Rat Pack, as Frank Sinatra and his crew are Caleb's favorite singers. But then I saw his cigar collection and voila~and idea was born! Caleb smokes cigars only occasionally, with a few friends around the fire pit in the backyard.

In keeping with the masculine theme, I used the necktie napkin rings I had made for my dad's birthday tablescape.

Made a 'bouquet' of cigars in a pedestal glass...used my lighter collection and my own cigar boxes I use for storage in my studio.

Found a couple of vintage cigar advertisements images on the Internet...

Recognize this guy? Before he was Governor of California and President of the United States, he was an actor~Ronald Reagan! ;-)

Our good friends, Brian and Jenni joined us in the festivities..and after dinner the guys retired to the backyard to enjoy~what else? A cigar!! :-D

I am linking to Susan's blog, Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday.

Gracefully Vintage

2011-06-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Steve whisked me away for a romantic anniversary getaway this weekend. We played 'tourists' in Sacramento...visited the Governor's Mansion, the Railroad Museum, and noshed in Old Sacramento..and visited a few antique stores in the area. To my delight, we were able to visit a darling shop called Gracefully Vintage..located on Sutter Street in Old Folsom.

I 'met' the owner, Karryann, when she commented on my blog awhile back. She is just as sweet and adorable as her shop..not to mention talented! She refinishes and upholsters much of the furniture you see in her shop! Enjoy the tour!

Karryann made this darling ruffled tablecloth out of a vintage wedding dress.

I am so blessed to have a husband that likes to peruse these cute stores with me. After 33 years, he is STILL my favorite person to hang out with!

Foofed Up the Porch!

2011-06-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

...So Blogger's acting up and not allowing to post pictures the normal way..I had to go into the 'edit' page and add pics,and from my point of view it only shows letters and numbers and no images. So I can't narrate the pictures.Please bear with me!

Just before our heat wave hit (100+), I managed to get out front and foof up the porch~and of course, Winston wanted to be in on the display!!

I am linking up to Faded Charm

And Rhondi at Rose Colored Glasses for her Porch Party she's hosting!

I am spending the rest of the day trying to stay cool! Hope you are too! ;-)

Happy Anniversary to my Wonderful Husband!

2011-06-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment. [Jane Austen]

It certainly did for me when I first met Steve 34 years ago. Within 3 months after meeting, we were engaged and 6 months later we were married. And it keeps getting better and better!! Happy Anniversary, Steve!

All I Ask Of You

(from Phantom of The Opera)

Steve:

No more talk of darkness

Forget these wide-eyed fears

I'm here, nothing can harm you

My words will warm and calm you

Let me be your freedom

Let daylight dry your tears

I'm here, with you, beside you

To guard you and to guide you

Myrna:

Say you'll love me every waking moment

Turn my head with talk of summertime

Say you'll need me with you now and always

Promise me, that all you say is true

That's all I ask of you

Steve:

Let me be your shelter

Let me be your light

You're safe, no one will find you

Your fears are far behind you

Myrna:

All I want is freedom

A world with no more night

And you, always beside me

To hold me and to hide me

Steve:

Then say you'll share with me one love, one lifetime

Let me lead you from your solitude

Say you'll need me with you here, beside you

Anywhere you go let me go too

Myrna, that's all I ask of you

Dining Al Fresco

2011-06-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

We had a little dinner party the other night...there were 8 of us and our table only sat 6 comfortably.

So off to Home Depot where Steve nabbed a sheet of plywood, took it home, cut the corners and sanded them..slapped it on top of our patio table, and voila! Cover it with a huge white bedspread and no one was the wiser! ;-)

I scored on a bunch of burlap sacs that I used for place mats. I plan to make pillows out of some of them later..

Beverly's Crafts had a sale on their faux succulents and I found a bag of mossy rocks at the Dollar Store. Made an arrangement in a silver casserole container.

Plan to set it on the coffee table later in the family room. No worries about it not getting enough sun..

The 'Ernst Cafe' cups are souvenirs from our trip a couple of years ago to New Orleans.

Napkins and cute holders are thrift store finds.

With Zac and Amy coming soon and the weather being beautiful, we'll be using this table quite a bit!!

I am linking up with Faded Charm for White Wednesday and

Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday. Be sure to check them out..there are so many talented blogs listed there with fabulous ideas!

"For most of life, nothing wonderful happens. If you don't enjoy getting up and working and finishing your work and sitting down to a meal with family or friends, then the chances are that you're not going to be very happy. If someone bases his happiness or unhappiness on major events like a great new job, huge amounts of money, a flawlessly happy marriage or a trip to Paris, that person isn't going to be happy much of the time. If, on the other hand, happiness depends on a good breakfast, flowers in the yard, a drink or a nap, then we are more likely to live with quite a bit of happiness."

~Andy Rooney

Seal Beach

2011-06-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

After wonderful visits with my friends, Sue, Anita and Anne, and joining Steve on his business trip, Zac,Amy and Lindy motored down to San Diego to take me back to their place for 5 glorious days!!

The above pic is Seal Beach, taken by my very talented daughter-in-love, Amy!! The following pics are random pics with a common denominator~ Lindy!! ;-)

And joy of joys...they are coming up HERE in TWO DAYS!!! I am so excited!! I'm off to get the house in order!!

Have a lovely day!!

The Urban Barn

2011-06-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Toni and I motored up to Escondido to THE URBAN BARN..who happened to be having their Street Faire that day. Enjoy the pics!

Here's Toni showing off one of the booths! ;-)

I thought these curtains covering the dressing room were amazing!

Here is a close up..what fun!

Tomorrow...pics of Lindy and fam!! ;-)

Have a lovely day!!

Touring Toni's House

2011-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

I thought you might like a little tour of Toni's warm and lovely home..

She made this mosaic coffee table out of old broken china..beautiful!

Darling vignettes are everywhere..

A peak inside the cabinet..

The mantle arranged for spring.

I love her collection of heirlooms.

Ahhhh~my retreat. The guestroom.

Fresh roses from her garden greeted me.

A close up of the shelf above the desk.

The Master Bedroom, so beautiful and serene!

All her touches are little works of art!

She also made the necklace holder~another mosaic. Beautiful!

A close up of her vintage perfume bottle collection.

And her vintage jewelry collection.

'Twas so lovely to visit and catch up. Toni is a joy and delight to me..and a WONDERFUL friend!

Hope you liked the little tour!! ;-)

"Blessed is the influence of one true,loving human soul on another" {George Eliot}

Didja Miss Me? :-)

2011-06-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

I jetted off to SoCal on my bloggy break. My sweet MIL gave me plane tickets as a thank you for throwing her a Retirement Party and I made the best of it...Steve had a business trip scheduled in San Diego and I left a few days early to visit a couple of my besties. Then met up with him downtown and while he was in meetings I got to pal around with my friend, Anne, who flew in from Boston with her husband. THEN a few days after that, Zac, Amy and Lindy came down to pick me up and as Steve flew home, I got to spend 5 glorious days with them!!

So first stop~Toni's house. The above sign greeted me when I walked into her kitchen.

And this tablescape greeted me for dinner..DARLING!!

She collects real nests..(of course AFTER the chicks fly the coop!)

She suggests to zap 'em in the micro for about 5-6 seconds to kill any insects that may be lurking inside.

The beautiful etched glasses were a thrift shop find! (covet-covet)

Sweet little bird perched upon the napkin ring.

I love her attention to detail at every place setting!

The 'Off-Center Piece' ..since it was just Toni, her husband and I she set the center piece off to the side to make easier access to the food for everyone. It set the table off, so nicely!

The view into her living room.

Another view with her lovely white shelf display in the background.

I had a lovely time. Stay tuned for a little house tour of Toni's. Until then, I am linking up to Faded Charm for White Wednesday and Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday!

I am so happy to be back..I have miss you all!!

Bloggy Break...

2011-05-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

"The play months of the year are here, so let us take our jobs as lightly as possible, keep house as little as we can, experiment not at all with doubtful things to eat.

Play.

At least, rest."

Quote from The Complete Home, published in 1879

Hi Sweet Friends! I am going to take a little bloggy break...summer activities are starting up and I don't want to miss a thing! Hope you all get some "play-time" in as well!! Blessings to you!! ;-)

White Wednesday

2011-05-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

Today for White Wednesday I thought we could re-visit out guest room...as it was before our son moved back in to finish college. It now looks more like a dorm room!! Ha-Ha. It's fine, tho, we're glad to be able to provide a place for him. Caleb will be graduating this December and we are so proud of the man he has become. He has gone thru some fiery trials recently and he has come through them without even the stench of smoke on him. God is faithful.

This is a wall vignette of family things...heirlooms passed down to Steve and me from our family.

A wedding photo and cake topper from Steve's parents are nestled the the old glass case

I covered a journal for guests to sign..it's so fun to look back and see what memories friends and family wrote in it!

Be sure to check out other White Wednesday's over at Kathleen's Faded Charm. And enter her fabulous giveaway!!

Family life is full of major and minor crises -- the ups and downs of health, success and failure in career, marriage, and divorce -- and all kinds of characters. It is tied to places and events and histories. With all of these felt details, life etches itself into memory and personality. It's difficult to imagine anything more nourishing to the soul.
{Thomas Moore}

Faith..Part 2

2011-05-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

Use what talent you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best.

{Henry Van Dyke}

Well, I did it. I taught my first art class.(See previous post). It went extremely well. I have no idea what I said or how I explained the project, but I was told I did a good job, so I am happy about that. I had all the supplies laid out and had colorful supplies available too, and was pleasantly surprised that everyone wanted to do their collage in neutrals! Everyone jumped in with both feet starting their project and we all had a great time!

Thank you so much to all you kind souls who left me comments and emails of encouragement! It meant so much to me and really helped me relax, focus and have fun at the HAVEN event!!

Faith

2011-05-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do. {E. Roosevelt}

There's a fairly new ministry that started at our church called HAVEN. It's all about art and worshipping God thru various forms of art. We meet once a month and I started attending last January. One day way back then in January, I was asked if I would teach a class in May. It just so happened that I was having a good self-esteem day that day~you know the kind~ your hair looks good, you weighed yourself that morning and found you'd lost a couple pounds, all was right with the world.....and I said "YES"!

GULP. So now May is here and I'm teaching the class this Sunday afternoon! I am a wreck. I have never taught an art class before. What was I thinking? Who do I think I am? Are they gonna 'get' the kind of art that I do?

Yesterday I made the example. I started with an 8X10 canvas, covered in in old dress pattern that I got at the thrift. Layered old sheet music, wallpaper scraps, rubber stamped various places, framed the word 'Faith" in an old tart mold that sits on a snippet of lace.

I printed out this scripture and then covered it with more dress pattern paper. I love how it gave a parchment look to it.

I am scared to death. I don't like getting up and talking in front of people. And it's a vulnerable thing to show your personal form of art. Not everyone is going to like it. But then, I don't like all art..it's just a matter of personal taste. And I don't judge the artist just because I don't care for their art. In fact I appreciate the artists that follows their passion..and I appreciate their creativity and their own personal talent. Maybe that's what the people who come Sunday will think. We all just want to be accepted, don't we?

And I think one of the deepest longings of people is to just be accepted. Me included.

Bottom line, this is where FAITH comes in. I know God accepts me just the way I am. I know He delights in me because He created me and He knows me so well. So why do I concern myself and work myself up in worry for fear I am going to disappoint some people? What if I do? I am still loved. In the broad scheme of things, it's really no big deal after all, is it?

I agree with Paul where he wrote:

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (New International Version)

Sigh. I feel MUCH better now. Thank you for our little chat! I am going to be okay! ;-)

I am linking up to Debra over at Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

White Wednesday

2011-05-10T18:14:00.000-07:00

Recently, while on a motorcycle ride with Steve, we va~roomed into Old Town Fair Oaks where there are many quaint stores. We ventured into this one called Bungalow, and I just snapped away~there was just beauty everywhere! Fair warning..lots of pictures ahead. You may want to go refill your coffee cup and come back.. ;-)

Aren't the displays just fabulous? Hope you enjoyed the tour!! I am linking up with Faded Charm's White Wednesday...

Have a great day!

Mother's Day Tabletops

2011-05-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely Mother's Day! Courtney and Caleb prepared breakfast...

and Courtney decked out the table...

She made Croissant French Blueberry Toast~ Soooo delicious!

A feast fit for a queen.. ;-)

After breakfast my MIL and Bro-in-law joined us and we went for a hike along the American River up in the foothills...packed in a picnic lunch and spent the day.

While DarLou and I played South Dakota Rummy and noshed on appetizers, the rest of the family prepared dinner~Salmon, Corn, and Basmati Lime Rice (Courtney's specialty).

And another beautifully set table for dinner. I am so grateful for the family God has given me~they make me feel so special and loved!

I am linking up to Marty's at A Stroll Thru Life

Have a wonderful day!!

Bereavement

2011-05-07T16:04:00.000-07:00

"It's so curious: one can resist tears and 'behave' very well in the hardest hours of grief. But then someone makes you a friendly sign behind a window, or one notices that a flower that was in bud only yesterday has suddenly blossomed, or a letter slips from a drawer... and everything collapses." ~{Colette}

It will be 20 years this June that my mom passed away at the early age of 68. I was 33. Much too young to lose a mother. I still had so much to learn from her. My children were so young and I was still full of questions about life, love, and God. I'd assume my mom would be there as I navigated my way thru uncertain waters of life. She was my biggest cheerleader and my biggest prayer warrior. I know how hard she prayed for Steve and me, and even harder for our children. I know that because of her prayers, Steve and I have a profound commitment to each other and to our Lord, and our kids have a deep abiding love for God.

For those acquainted with grief know how it can blind side you when you least suspect it. Over time, it's visits are less frequent, but when it hits it feels as if she died just last week...this is one of those times. I am missing my mom this Mother's Day weekend.

"The deep pain that is felt at the death of every friendly soul arises from the feeling that there is in every individual something which is inexpressible, peculiar to him alone, and is, therefore, absolutely and irretrievably lost". ~{Arthur Schopenhauer}

Tablescape Thursday

2011-05-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

This year my sweet Sis-in-law and Bro-in-law hosted Easter dinner.

Kathleen always does amazing tablescapes.

It's always so fun to go over there...I love her style and whimsy.

I gave her those dishes a couple of years ago and I loved how she incorporated into her tablescape.

Fresh hydrangeas took center stage and chiffon and pearls flowed out from there.

And she used scrapbook paper as part of the place setting! Who'd a thunk it? Placed at each place setting was a card with the person's initial on it, and a scripture pasted inside.

A fun time was had by all...and I'm so glad I remembered the camera so I can share it with YOU!!

This Tablescape party is brought to you by Susan of Between Naps on The Porch..check out all the darling entries!!

Words of Comfort Box

2011-05-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

My friend, Cindy, recently found out her beloved uncle has terminal cancer. She began writing verses on 3 X 5 cards as she came across them while reading her Bible. She then asked me if she could commission me to make a box to put them in give to her uncle, asking that I title the box "Words of Comfort".

I felt so daunted by the task..to create something for a man, for one thing. And for one with a serious illness.

Blessedly I found a box (I forgot to take a 'before' pic of the top). It was a plain box, but looked about the right size to fit 3X5 cards in.

When I opened it, this was inside!

And it fit the cards perfectly! But I was so overwhelmed by the project. I put it off at least a week, and then would begin working on it only to walk away several times. I kept plugging along, all the while praying for this man I've never met, so fearful he'd think this box would be so hokey. And in the light of his situation I just didn't want to add any more awkwardness to his ordeal. Even when I finished it I felt sick to my stomach. I didn't like it. It just wasn't good enough. I called Cindy to let her know it was finished, but not to get her hopes up...that I wouldn't be offended if she didn't want it.

She rushed over right away and when she saw it, a big smile broke out over her face.."I LOVE IT!!" she exclaimed. "It is perfect for him!" I was astonished. She asked me how much she owed me for it..I gave her a number and she added $5 more to it.

I was so relieved that Cindy liked it. And I pray this box of scriptures will bring her uncle comfort, hope, and peace in knowing there's another life to come after this one.

And The Winner Is....

2011-05-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who emailed me and left comments for the Giveaway...and for the sweet comments~Courtney was so encouraged!!

I let Random Generator pic the number~there were 13 entries including emails~ and the winner is:

Rene' from Miss Gracie's House!! Congratulations and thank you again to everyone who entered!!

Have a lovely day!

Buffet Before and After

2011-05-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of redoing the Master Bedroom. We had been using my grandmother's buffet that my aunt had given me for a TV stand for a few years. Then, one day, I got a wild hair (so what else is new, I know my husband would say, lol) and asked him if he'd please paint it. He had no problem agreeing to to the endeavor as this is not his favorite kind of wood. I've been in a blue mood, well, more like teal, as of late and blessedly we had a can of that color on hand. He primed it, painted it, then sanded it and I love how it turned out! So much so, that we moved it into the kitchen nook to add more lightness and color there...

Isn't it amazing what a difference a can of paint can do?

I am linking up with Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday, House in The Roses Show off Your Cottage Monday,

and Keeping It Simple Motivate Me Monday.

Also, today is the last day to enter my GIVEAWAY here!

"The world's favorite season is the spring.

All things seem possible in May."

{Edwin Way Teale}

Courtney's Birthday Dinner...Ooooh LA~LA!!

2011-04-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our daughter, Courtney's birthday this past Tuesday in Parisian fashion..her favorite style!

Most of the goodies I absconded from Courtney's room...this 'Paris' mirror I had created from an art challenge awhile ago, then gave to her..

It was so nice to have everything on hand, it took me practically no time to whip it together.

This was Courtney's place setting.

I wrapped the pink candle on the candle stand in French dictionary pages.

Our first roses of the spring graced this darling creamer..

Courtney was so surprised at the 'reveal'!

We even had french music playing during our meal. 'Twas a delightful time!

I am linking up to Tablescape Thursdays hosted be the lovely Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

And be sure to enter my Giveaway...Celebrating Courtney's Grand Opening of her Etsy Shop!

Au revoir!

Courtney's Birthday and a GIVEAWAY!!

2011-04-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my daughter,Courtney's birthday AND I wanted to announce her opening of her Etsy shop, Tickled Pink Delights! What better way, than to host a giveaway! Courtney is giving away the hat that is pictured and it comes with an adorable detachable flower pin that adds just the right touch to any shirt.

All you have to do to win is leave a comment here..if you'd like to be entered twice please announce it on your blog and let me know. If you don't have a blog you can still leave a comment and if you email your friends about Tickled Pink Delights, just let me know and you'll be entered twice, too!! I'll announce the winner next Tuesday, May 3rd. Thank you so much for helping spread the word about Courtney's new shop!!

Lindy at 16 months

2011-04-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

For all you grandmothers out there..you know exactly how I feel~I am just over-the-moon in love with my granddaughter!! ;-)

Lindy in her Easter dress..

Easter Family Portrait.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tomorrow is Courtney's birthday and we're starting celebrating today. Steve is joining us for lunch at a new restaurant we want to try out..they serve beet burgers among other odd concoctions..hmmm! Then Court and I'll maybe do a little thriftin'~she's a girl after my own heart, and one of my best friends. Isn't it wonderful when your kids grow up and become great friends with you? Have a lovely day!

"When we love a person, we accept him or her exactly as is:

the lovely with the unlovely,

the strong along with the fearful,

the true mixed in with the facade,

and of course,

the only way we can do it is by accepting ourselves that way."

{Mister Rogers}

Bunny Love

2011-04-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't been posting much...life and stuff just gets in the way sometimes.

But I thought I'd slap up a few pics of my Easter decor, such as it is..

(one of my favorite pics of Lindy that her daddy took of her..)

I didn't do much, really..just grabbed some Easter decor outta the box and set 'em around..

No extra grass or fillers to surround the collections..(the little frog is a giftie from Judy). And it looks like one of the bunnies is copping a little attitude~doesn't want to play with the other bunnies.. ;-)

Here's my nod to the vintage look~ this year I just grouped 'em by color. Seems to work out alright.

These darling egg nests were a birthday gift from my sweet friend, Jenni. They will stay out long after Easter is over.

Looking forward to celebrating the true reason for the season.....HE IS RISEN INDEED!!

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Old Friends...

2011-04-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

I have been cleaning out in the house, then had a garage sale, then got ready for our BFF's visit from Texas.

It had been 6 mos since visiting with Dave and Laura, so how do you cram that much catch-up time into 3 1/2 days? We managed by doing a little wine tasting and sight seeing. Our kids and their friends came over for dinner and talks around the fire pit...(everyone who meets Dave and Laura loves them!)

While the guys got the Atlas out and planned out their future motorcycle trip together...Laura and I took off and hit the Thrift Stores..

(Whew!) I need to train ahead of time for that kind of shopping!!

We had SUCH a good time with them! It is always a fun-filled time with them..They left this morning (sniff) but plans are already in the works for a return visit from them in July~(Yay!)

Today I'm pooped. Gonna take it easy today.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2011-04-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

My Birthday is this Sunday~April 10, and I wanted to share two Birthday presents I received in the mail from a couple of my besties. This purse was handmade by my talented friend, Susan!

Look at all the detail!! Isn't it GORGEOUS!? Thank you SO VERY much, Sue!!

And this beauty is from Laura..she knows me so well and what I love..

Diamonds and Pearls..one can never go wrong with that combination!! ;-)

Love it!! Thank you so much, Laura!

It isn't the size of the gift that matters, but the size of the heart that gives it. ~ {Eileen Elias Freeman}

Shelf Life

2011-04-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have been "Spring Flinging" around here lately...feeling overwhelmed with too much stuff and am going thru cupboards and drawers..well, you know the drill! ;-) As I was separating the 'keeps' from the 'keep-nots' I was looking for a spot to set my white collection till I found a more permanent home for them.

In this nook-shelf I had already set a mirror with the statue and organza runner, then just kept setting the rest of the stuff, trays, bowl 'o pearls, etc., till I could come back to it and distribute it all elsewhere.

But I think I quite like it for now..maybe I'll find a few treasures that the white bowls can hold, who knows? ;-) Well, I'm off to tackle another cupboard! Have a lovely day!!

The aim of life is appreciation; there is no sense in not appreciating things; and there is no sense in having more of them if you have less appreciation of them.

{G.K. Chesterton}

I am linking up to: Between Naps on the Porch.

A Stroll Thru Life

and Faded Charm

Love Notes

2011-03-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

So after having breakfast with Steve, and seeing him off to work at the front door.. (yes, I really look like this in the morning..NOT! But I wish I did!!)...I traipsed upstairs to check the computer and found this:

Then went into our bedroom to make the bed...

..and found this on my pillow..

Then when I began my quiet time, I found this in my Bible.

..and later found this taped to a mirror on my desk.

Sigh. Thank you, Lord for my most wonderful husband!

Of course, all of them are going into my BELOVED box!

To find someone who will love you for no reason, and to shower that person with reasons, that is the ultimate happiness. ~Robert Brault

I WON! I WON! WON!!!

2011-03-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

...So I've been away from the 'puter and blogland for a few days, and thought today I'd pop in for a few visits to my blogfriends. I was strolling thru Joy's lovely blog at SavvyCity Farmer,because I can always count on her posts to raise my spirits, and about fell out of my chair when I saw my picture on her post!

Apparently she had announced me as the winner of her fabulous giveaway on Sunday! Boy, it's amazing the excitement one can miss if she's not au fait (my 5 dollar word of the day) in bloggerville! ;-)

I have won this wonderful book (in which Joy's house is featured) and I can barely contain myself until I have it in my hot little hands! Thank you, Joy, for your generous giveaway, and all your sweet comments you wrote about me!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Speaking of sweet comments, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for the very thoughtful and kind comments all of you had made from my last few posts. You have no idea how you buoy my spirits by taking the time to share your thoughts with me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Thank you for adding to my happiness!!

Tea for Three!

2011-03-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

One of the most lovely things to look forward to after my brief hospital stay was an invitation to tea for Courtney and I given by my very dear friend, Judy. Any invitation to Judy's is always a delight and a treasure to my soul and this time Courtney was able to experience it with me! This beautiful tablescape greeted us when we entered her kitchen.

Here is a close up view of my place setting..she used all her best china!

This darling menu card she made was at our place setting. Try as I might this picture refused to be turned upright!! sigh.

And inside was a darling 'tea etiquette' advise and the menu..yes she served EVERYTHING listed here!

I took this picture of our first serving~ Lavender lemon muffins and Black Olive and Rosemary Scones, but then became so caught up in our wonderful conversation and delicious food I forgot to take any more photos until dessert was served!!

Cream Puffs

Heart Tartlets and Krumkake

Devil's Peaks and Shortbread Cookies..all so divine!

Judy and Courtney..Courtney was as captivated and enthralled as I was!

Judy made these delightful 'favors' for us~ ALL out of paper!

Inside the darling little purse contained a vintage hankie, a package of apricot tea, a darling little pop-top necklace and a sweet ATC of a woman lounging and stamped 'housework can make you ugly!' Too Cute!

She also MADE this amazing paper cake, and gave Courtney and I each a 'slice'..

Inside were these sweet little chocolates and with a cute tag attached.

I had given Judy the Friendship Book and Courtney gave her two of her lovely flower pins that she crocheted.

After tea, Judy's husband Bill came home and we all had a wonderful visit~I was so happy that Courtney was able to experience it, too. Visiting Judy is always so magical and fun and soothing to my soul. It was just what the doctor ordered! ;-)

I am linking up to Between Naps on the Porch for her wonderful Tablescape Thursday party!

“Come let us have some tea and continue to talk about happy things.”

{Chaim Potok}

My Unexpected Hospital Stay

2011-03-15T16:21:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday morning I visited my doctor to go over some strange symptoms I'd been having. After a few questions and an EKG (which was normal) she told me to go immediately to ER~she thought I'd had a mini-stroke! I called Steve at work, who came home and drove me to ER. I've never been to ER before as a patient. Eight hours later, after numerous tests and questions I was admitted to stay overnight. I could feel my anxiety gradually rising thru the whole thing and finally asked Steve for prayer. He was only able to make a couple of phone calls because cell-phone service was so bad in ER, but it was enough to get people praying for me. (Thanks, Courtney! ;-)) It was amazing, because within minutes I felt my anxiety drain away. I turned to Steve and said "I can literally feel people praying for me!!" I began to focus on God and promises I remember from the Bible. My MIL joined us and accompanied us up to my room. Almost immediately I was then taken down to have an MRI taken of my brain. It is a long narrow machine that you're inserted to and cannot move. I'm not claustrophobic, but I have to say I was challenged in there..knowing I was going to be in there for about 45 minutes. Only a few minutes in and I felt fear and anxiety creeping up..stretching up to clasp around my neck in a choke-hold and I began to pray and think of scriptures and songs I sing in church that brought me comfort, and I heard Jesus in my head say "I am here." The anxiety and fear just whooshed away! And in it's place was indescribable joy! I began to pray for anyone that popped into my head-- nurses, doctors and staff that were helping me, my family, my friends, even my blog-friends!! Suddenly I was being moved out, and not realizing I'd been in there for 50 minutes said, "Well, that was cool!!" Lloyd, the technician said "I have done countless MRI's and no one has EVER said that before!"

I told him "I was praying in there and the time went by so fast..I even prayed for you, Lloyd!" Lloyd was about 30, African American, with long dread-locks.Big husky guy..coulda been a line-backer. He said "Wow, thank you for praying for me!" That just touched my heart.

I had other tests done, but I won't bore you with the details. The next day, after all the results came, in the doctor said everything was normal~Praise the Lord. We're guessing some medication I'm on is giving me the problems. I have a follow up appt. with my doctor on Monday.

What a lesson for me, though. The importance of focusing on God in the good AND the bad. The importance of asking for prayer..my pride had kept me from asking earlier..I didn't want to "bother" anyone, or cause any worry. I won't do that again! When I feel I need prayer I'll ask for it immediately. And the other lesson..the power of prayer. For anyone who's reading this and feels secluded, or home- bound for whatever reason and feels useless: YOU CAN ALWAYS PRAY!! Pray for others and know that it truly makes a difference. That may be the very thing God has called on you to do. It was only through the prayers of others that got me through a very scary situation. Think of the difference you can make in other's lives by just praying for them!! And you will make a difference!

Ephesians 1:15-20 (New Living Translation)

Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere. I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.

I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms.

Wine Bag to Friendship Tag Book

2011-03-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Recently, my sweet friend Judy, invited Courtney and I to 'tea' at her house. As little hostess gifts, Courtney made two of her darling crochet flower pins for her, and I made a Friendship Tag Book.

I started out with a simple brown wine bag, glued the edges together, folded it, made 'pockets' on each fold in the front to hold tags, and voila:

The rest of the pictures are of what's inside after opening the book:

This is one side when it's all opened up..

And this is the other side with the 'pockets' to hold the tags.

A fun project to use up small scraps of paper.

Can't wait to show you Judy's Tea Party!! Stay tuned!

I am linking to Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday.

Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.

Camille Pissarro

Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing. {Camille Pissarro}

From Hotel Coasters to Encouragement Book

2011-03-08T15:10:00.000-08:00

Recently I posted about going through a few trials and tribulations and how important it is to maintain perspective. Per Steve's urging, I retreated to my studio and found myself looking at some cardboard coasters I'd picked up from our stay at a hotel. I decided to make something just for me, using the good stuff, like Karla, from Karla's Cottage challenged us to do.. The front is covered with a bingo card and added embellishments.

Inside I used vintage french text on one side and vintage image from old sheet music. Then I added reminders..quotes and verses to encourage me..to help me keep perspective.

Such good reminders.."pursue what is good"....

What I didn't notice till I saw this picture was how the tag covered the verse to then read "Always Pray". Somehow I don't believe that was an accident! ;-)

I pick up Bibles at the thrift store..and I got clearance from my pastor that it's all right to use scripture torn from the Bible in artwork! ;-) The other side is again from old sheet music..such beautiful graphics!

I really cling to promises of God. They sustain me, nurture me, and encourage me!

"One act of thanksgiving, when things go wrong with us, is worth a thousand thanks when things are agreeable to our inclinations."

{St. John of Avila}

Sonya's Giveaway

2011-03-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

Sonya over at Counting My Blessings is having her 100th Post Giveway..pop over and check it out~ it's fabulous!! ;-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!!

2011-03-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Steve's birthday. He's taking the day off of work and we'll be spending the day together. Going out to a movie, then lunch. Tonight dinner will be at home with his family.

Steve is my best friend. He knows all my secrets and I am secure in knowing that they are locked away in his heart..like his love for me. God has used Steve over the years to show me areas in my life that He wants to change,to grow, to improve in an all-so-gentle way. Steve is a quiet encourager~insisting I spend time in my studio because he knows that I NEED to be creative, that it feeds my soul. He doesn't complain if the house is a mess and is understanding of my lack of organization. I recently realized that his lack of complaining to really be his way of encouraging...he never belittles me or makes me feel small (I do a fine job at that all by myself!) He supports me and prays for me in all the areas of my life..from the ministries I'm involved in at church to the latest art or decor project. Somehow he keeps up with my ever-changing mind and ideas. It isn't because it comes naturally to him~it doesn't. It's because of his love for me. And he shows me a million little ways all the time.

He is a man of integrity. He is a man of strength. He is a man of God.

You know that Proverbs 31 scripture? The one all about the godly wife and mother? There's a little verse in the middle of it that caught my eye..Proverbs 31:11 "Her husband can trust her,and she will greatly enrich his life." One of the definitions of 'trust' is "to have confidence in.." Because of Steve's confidence in me, it has made me strive to be a better person, wife and mother. Oh, how I love these little God-lessons from living out the life God has called me to. I've been married to Steve for almost 33 years, and am STILL learning so much~and always will!

The words to this song is dedicated to my beloved...

I Just Call You Mine

Artist: Martina McBride

I pinch myself sometimes to make sure I'm not in a dream

That's how it seems

I close my eyes and breathe in the sweetest moments I've ever known

It feels like home

And here I am~ I want to be your everything

There you are

Turning winter into spring

And everyone that sees you

Always wants to know you

And everyone that knows you

Always has a smile

You're a standing ovation after years of waiting

For a chance to finally shine

Everyone calls you amazing

I just call you mine

I fall apart~

Just a word from you somehow

seems to fix whatever's wrong

Oh, you reach into the weakest moments

And remind me that I'm strong

You've got to know

I'd be a fool not to see you, even worse

To forget that you're more than I deserve

Cause everyone that sees you

Always wants to know you

And everyone that knows you

Always has a smile

You're a standing ovation after years of waiting

For a chance to finally shine

Everyone calls you amazing

I just call you mine.

Happy Birthday, Steve....I love you...

Happy March!

2011-03-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends! First off, I want to thank you for your sweet and thoughtful comments from my last post. I was so relieved to hear that you can relate. Your comments encouraged me more that you could know..thank you so much!

Per Steve's orders, I have been visiting my studio more often and notice my spirits lifting when I do...I've just been putterin' around in there, really. Just creating and experimenting with whatever strikes my fancy. Hopefully I'll have pictures to show you soon.

Happy March to you! A fresh new month with the promise of spring coming soon. Today's a beautiful day in Northern California and everything looks hopeful!

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome." ~Anne Bradstreet