On my Porch

A touch of Fall

2008-09-21T12:54:00.008-04:00

Now that we've had a couple of cooler days and evenings, I decided to get some Fall things out and start decorating.
The new bathroom was first. It's the first time I've ever decorated the master bath. Hey, why not. I tried to keep the blue accents and add to them with orange/rust colors. I like how it turned out.

Then I added some acorns and leaves to the tray that I have in my glass coffee table. I love this little tray that I got at a craft show last year. It's fun to change seasonally. My friend bought one too and uses hers on a long table and it looks great there!
A few items were added to the mantle.

Cracked pot!

2008-09-08T20:49:00.003-04:00

An elderly Chinese woman had two large pots, each hung on the ends of a pole which she carried across her neck.

One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.

At the end of the long walks from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily, with the woman bringing home only one and a half pots of water.

Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments.

But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it could only do half of what it had been
made to do.

After two years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the woman one day by the stream.
'I am ashamed of myself, because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house.'

The old woman smiled, 'Did you notice that there are
flowers on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side?'

'That's because I have always known about your flaw, so I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you water them.'

'For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are,
there would not be this beauty to grace the house.'

Each of us has our own unique flaw.

But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding.
You've just got to take each person for what they are and look for the good in them.

SO, to all of my crackpot friends, have a great day and remember to smell the flowers on your side of the path!

And send this to any or all of your Crack Pot friends!!

Next time my friends say I'm a little cracked, I'll take it as a compliment!

Welcome to a new blog!

2008-07-07T18:56:00.004-04:00

My friend Cathy has started a blog. Here's the link. It's called Catnabarn. If you frequent Rate My Space (HGTV), you may remember her.

If you love country decor, this is the place for you. She has done some fabulous projects and remodeling at her home. Not only is the inside lovely, but her outside spaces are just as wonderful.

Pop over and say hello and tell her Nan sent you.

Better than Smith and Hawkens?

2008-07-06T18:09:00.005-04:00

I hope everyone had a great 4th of July weekend. Ours was relatively low key so my husband found some time to make me a potting bench. We have talked about doing one forever but finally we got it done.

I told him what I wanted and he built it from scratch w/o a plan, as he always does. I think it turned out pretty well. I think I'll keep it natural for now but who knows.......I could change my mind again. LOL

My peonies are gone!

2008-06-10T18:49:00.007-04:00

Looks like a bird hit my white chair! Dirty bird. LOL
Clematis
Peonies

My peonies were beautiful while they lasted. The strong winds and rain beat them to death. I also have some lovely clematis blooming. Here are a couple of pics from my yard. I love it when everything is in bloom.
What's blooming in your yard?

I posted my bathroom

2008-06-09T20:14:00.004-04:00

Hi all! Well, it's been a while since I've posted. I hope you are well and happy. I am still plugging away at the new job. Bailey the beagle is all well and back to normal.

Our bathroom remodel is finally complete. I posted it on RMS (Rate my Space) yesterday. If you get a chance, run over and take a peek at it. Here's the link.

It has been raining here like crazy and some of our state is flooded and people have lost their homes. We've been lucky not to have much damage or flooding where we live. I can't imagine losing everything.

I watched the first episode of Design Star last night. It will be an interesting season. Any of you watch it? Actually, I'm most anxious for Sunday when Rate my Space, the TV show airs. I love getting ideas and offering opinions on decorating.

Gotta go...................Hugs!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-10T21:56:00.005-04:00

I hope everyone has a nice Mother's day. I am lucky to have a great Mom and Mom-in-Law.
Wishing you the best day ever. What would be your ideal Mother's Day?
Check out these top TV Sitcom Moms.

Spring has sprung!

2008-04-27T14:44:00.006-04:00

Hi all! I've missed you. Bailey is pretty much back to normal. Thank goodness. Thanks for your concern for him. We're still not really sure what happened but we're glad he's himself again. You know...........spoiled and cute.

I'm so glad to see all the trees blooming. I took a quick picture of our pear trees between the driveways. I wish the flowers lasted longer. I also took a picture at night. My H added lighting last year and I like how it looks. Today the winds are pretty strong and the white flowers are blowing all over the place......like snow.

Under the weather........

2008-04-06T18:22:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry that I haven't visited or posted in a while. Things remain crazy at work. Our bathroom remodel is progressing but not done yet. My husband has to fit it in between other work.

My poor Bailey, the beagle, has been under the weather. We are not really sure exactly what happened. He may have eaten something he's not supposed to or gotten into the construction materials. We've tried to be so careful. I have been at the vet with him three times over the last week and a half. I think he's on the mend now. He is like my child so it's been very stressful.

I hope to start posting again. I miss you guys.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T12:12:00.006-04:00

Eggs have been part of the Easter tradition for thousands of years, and the Christian tradition may have its roots in an earlier Judaic one, where eggs as a symbol of new life were a symbolic part of the Passover Seder. Numerous ancient cultures adopted the egg as part of the Easter holiday tradition. Greeks exchange red ones that symbolize the blood of Christ; Germans and Austrians green ones. Armenians decorated theirs with holy pictures, and Slavic people adorn theirs with silver and gold. The Romanovs took this a step further, adding precious metals, enamels, precious and semi-precious gems, and clocks and mechanical toys.

As spring is a time of rebirth; it’s not surprising that animals, especially baby ones, are an easily recognized symbol of the holiday. Lambs, chicks, ducklings, and especially bunnies are the Easter ambassadors of the animal world. It is thought that the pagans worshipped the Goddess Eastre, who was symbolized by a rabbit and, like so many Christian traditions, was co-opted from earlier cultures. The Germans brought the tradition of the Easter Bunny to the new world, exchanging the bonnet in which the bunny brought colored eggs for the basket.

Gotta watch little old ladies.

2008-03-19T20:04:00.000-04:00

A dentist noticed that his next patient, a little old lady, was
nervous so he decided to tell her a little joke as he put on his gloves.

"you know how they make these gloves?" he asked.

"No, I don't," she replied.

"Well," he spoofed, "there's a building in Canada with a big tank of latex and workers of all hand sizes walk up to the tank, dip in their hands, let them dry, then peel off the gloves and throw them into boxes of the right size."

She didn't crack a smile.

"Oh, well. I tried," he thought.

But five minutes later, during a delicate portion of the procedure, she burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

"I was just envisioning how condoms are made!"

Gotta watch those little old ladies! Their minds are always working!

A wee bit Irish!

2008-03-15T10:52:00.020-04:00

Don't we all feel a bit Irish on St. Patty's day? I found the shamrock plates above at Homegoods. I could spend a fortune there. I am off to the grocery to buy my corned beef. We have a parade here and the canal is turned green! It's a lot of fun. Also, there are lots of pubs with Irish fare and green beer!

Here are some good St Patty's Day recipes.

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields and,
Until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Did you know?
Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland wasn't actually Irish, he was born around 373 A.D. in either Scotland, near the town of Dumbarton, or in Roman Britain.

The Leprechaun is an Irish fairy. Full grown leprechauns are reported to be about 2 feet tall. They will frequently be clothed in the garb of a shoemaker, with a cocked hat and a leather apron. Frequently scowling, leprechauns are said to resemble small, grumpy old men.

According to legend, leprechauns are unfriendly, live alone. They spend a great deal of their time making shoes. Most importantly, each and every leprechaun possesses a hidden pot of gold.

Treasure hunters should listen for the sound of a shoemaker's hammer, when looking for leprechauns. If caught, the leprechaun must reveal the whereabouts of his pot of gold. But be careful! Keep your eyes on the tricky leprechaun every second. He will try to trick you into looking away, and if you do...PooF! He vanishes and all hopes of finding the treasure are lost.

Every year we go to our Irish fest. We love the band, Brigid' Cross, a folk band from NE Ohio. They play a mix of Irish tunes and mixes of other music. They are so fun.

Change your time?

2008-03-10T20:21:00.010-04:00

Did you change your clocks? You don't realize how many clocks you have until you have to reset them all. I almost forgot to go to lunch since the time was different. LOL What do you think about changing the time? I think it's silly.

Hippity Hoppity.....Easter's on it's way!

2008-03-09T16:57:00.011-04:00

I found these adorable plates at TJ Maxx. If you look closely, you can see faint images of bunnies or baby chicks. This is about it for Easter decor at my house. Do you decorate for Easter?

Easter is early this year. Easter is always the 1st Sunday after the
1st full moon after the Spring Equinox (which is March 20). This dating

of Easter is based on the lunar calendar that Hebrew people used to
identify Passover, which is why it moves around on our Roman calendar.
Based on the above, Easter can actually be one day earlier (March 22)
but that is pretty rare.

Here's the interesting info. This year is the earliest Easter any of
us will ever see the rest of our lives! And only the most elderly of
our population have ever seen it this early (95 years old or above!).
And none of us have ever, or will ever, see it a day earlier! Here are
the facts:

1) The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be the year
2228 (220 years from now). The last time it was this early was 1913 (so

if you're 95 or older, you are the only ones that were around for
that!).

2) The next time it will be a day earlier, March 22, will be in the
year 2285 (277 years from now). The last time it was on March 22 was
1818. So, no one alive today has or will ever see it any earlier than
this year!

A new blog to visit!

2008-03-06T22:59:00.003-05:00

I'd love to introduce you to a new blog that just started today! Heather is one of my RMS (Rate my Space- HGTV) friends. She and I both live in the Midwest and share a love of beagles and decorating. I think her blog will be really fun.

Please welcome her at Rue's Peanut Butter and Jelly life.

Hugs,
Nan

Rub a dub dub.....out with the tub!

2008-03-06T22:05:00.010-05:00

Several posts ago, I mentioned that we were thinking of remodeling our bathroom. Well, we are on our way! The jacuzzi tub is going away and we are doing a larger shower. Everything is moving around. We can't replace everything. I am thinking that I'll paint the cabinets and change the hardware. We'll add new counters, tile, lighting and shower. My husband and friends will do all the work.

We don't live in a big house. Hopefully, the new layout will function better for us.

Here are some BEFORE pics. Bye bye big tub. We don't use it very often and it takes up so much space. Bye bye Hollywood lights! Bye bye carpet in the bathroom! What were they thinking? (No, we didn't build this house.)

We thought this tub was a lighter weight material. Big surprise...............It is some kind of cultured marble and weighs 400 lbs! It took 4 guys to get it out today!

Pardon the mess!
Have any of you remodeled a bath recently? Any great ideas you'd like to share? Any tips on painting the cabinets? The cabinets will be in a single run on the wall where the tub is now. I don't know what kind of mirrors to do. Any suggestions welcome.

Bob's boots!

2008-03-01T17:54:00.004-05:00

Bob's Boots

Bob always wanted a pair of authentic cowboy boots. He's an elderly man and figures he's not getting any younger. So seeing some on sale one day, he buys them, wears them home, walking proudly. He walks into the house and says to his wife: "Notice anything different about me?' Margaret looks him over, "Nope" she says.

Frustrated Bob storms off into the bathroom,undresses,and walks back into the room completely naked except for the boots. Again, he asks, a little louder this time, "Notice anything different NOW?"
Margaret looks up and says, "Bob, what's different? It's hanging down today, it was hanging down yesterday,and it'll be hanging down again tomorrow." Furious, Bob yells, "AND DO YOU KNOW WHY IT'S HANGING DOWN, MARGARET?'"

'Nope', she replies.

Bob Yells 'CAUSE IT'S LOOKIN' AT MY NEW BOOTS" To which Margaret replies... "Shoulda bought a hat, Bob, Shoulda bought a hat."

Six word Memoirs

2008-02-28T22:09:00.014-05:00

BJ over at Sweet Nothings tagged me to play the fun game of the 6 WORD MEMOIR........ Here are the meme rules: 1. Write your own six word memoir 2. Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you’d like 3. Link to the person that tagged you in your post and to this original post if possible, so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere

4. Tag five more blogs with links 5. Remember to leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play! MY 6 WORD MEMOIR IS :

To do...........to love.............to hope............
I tag these blogs:
Janet at House Peepers
Amanda at Jacarandacottage
Rose at Classic Charm
Carletta at Round the Bend
Brenda at Country Romance

Obedient wife?

2008-02-26T20:10:00.001-05:00

There was a man who had worked all his life, had saved all of his money, and was a real

miser when it came to his money. Just before he died, he said to his wife...'When I die, I

want you to take all my money and put it in the casket with me. I want to take my money

to the afterlife with me.' And so he got his wife to promise him, with all of her heart, that

when he died, she would put all of the money into the casket with him. Well, he died. He

was stretched out in the casket, his wife was sitting there - dressed in black, and her

friend was sitting next to her. When they finished the ceremony, and just before the

undertakers got ready to close the casket, the wife said, 'Wait just a moment!' She had

a small metal box with her; she came over with the box and put it in the casket. Then the

undertakers locked the casket down and they rolled it away. So her friend said, 'Girl, I

know you were not foolish enough to put all that money in there with your husband.' The

loyal wife re plied, 'Listen, I'm a Christian; I cannot go back on my word. I promised him

that I was going to put that money into the casket with him.' You mean to tell me you put

that money in the casket with him! 'I sure did,' said the wife. 'I got it all together, put it

into my account, and wrote him a check.... If he can cash it, then he can spend it.'

Different takes...............

2008-02-23T10:59:00.007-05:00

I like to use things in my home for different purposes other than for what they were intended. My throw, in the picture below, is actually a wool drapery panel that I found on a shopping trip one day. I thought the color and pattern really complimented my throw pillow and my red accent wall. Red is one of my favorite things!

The light below is actually an outdoor light fixture. I find that they can actually be a lot less expensive than interior fixtures, especially when bought at a local home store as opposed to a fancy lighting store. I like the golden seed type glass in it. It gives a nice glow at night.

An extra wine rack holds a few of my magazines. I wasn't using it so I thought I'd try it with something else.
Over the years, I've had many different uses for things. I used a tablecloth with clip on rings as a fabric shower curtain. I've used shower curtains to make fabric wall art. I padded a fabric headboard with the smooth side of one of those egg crate mattress pads. Then I covered it with sheets that matched my comforter. I made art panels for behind the bed out of plywood, batting and fabric. I've used a heavy round trash can as side table by adding a plywood round top and covering it with fabric.

What different uses for things have you done?

I adore doors!

2008-02-20T21:09:00.009-05:00

I'm not sure when I became interested in pictures of doors but I find them interesting. The one in the upper left was taken in Italy. No, I didn't go there. Darn. My friend did and he took this with the water flowing up to the doorway. It also has cute window boxes. The two center ones are from Spain. The upper right one with the lace curtains is from France. The lower left and right ones are from Italy too.

I have also collected some calendar pictures of doors that need to be framed.

The lace curtain one was the first one I bought at an art fair.
Close up in Italy.
This one came from an art fair, as well. I thought it was very unusual. My friends say it looks a little scary. The more I look at it, it is kinda scary. It's never made it to the wall.

Talkin' toile!

2008-02-19T20:59:00.017-05:00

I love toile! BJ over at Sweet Nothings was talking about how she loved country French style. I have always loved the look and especially the fabrics. Here are a few pictures from BHG and Horchow using toile in different ways. Want to learn more about it?
Toile (pronounced twahl) means "cloth" in French.

Below is how I used it in my laundry room to make the plain cabinets more interesting. I just took foam board and covered it with toile fabric. It's attached to the cabinet fronts with some removable poster mounting tape. When I get tired of the look, I can just take them down. I lined a couple of baskets with leftover toile and a check fabric.

(Sorry about the reflection of the mirror.)

What did you do on President's day?

2008-02-18T19:24:00.012-05:00

Until 1971, both February 12 and February 22 were observed as federal public holidays to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and George Washington (February 22).

In 1971 President Richard Nixon proclaimed one single federal public holiday, the Presidents' Day, to be observed on the third Monday of February, honoring all past presidents of the United States of America.

See what Snopes said about President's day.

I worked today, but many people had the day off. I hope you had a good Monday. How did you spend It?

Sleep in?
Float in the pool?
Play a few games?
Check your makeup?

99 steps and posts ........

2008-02-16T17:12:00.001-05:00

Wow, it's hard to believe I've had over 99 posts since I started blogging. It's been my pleasure to meet a lot of nice people from around the world. I only wish I had more time to visit and share some more interesting topics.

Sorry.........nothing to give away for my milestone except my thanks for your sweet comments and support.

Thank you......................thank you...............................thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

99 things about me. (In no particular order)

I love dogs.
I am not a real blonde
I don't like to tell my age.
I love chocolate.
I love a good joke.
I am smarter than I look.
I don't like my toes.
I lied about my weight on my driver's license.
I love anything with cheese.
I'm not very athletic but I like sports.
I love to listen to Michael Buble.
I like easy listening music.
I never had measles.
I wish I was taller.
I like to draw.
I wish for a "do over" on a few things.
I am kind.
I love my family and we all get along.
I am not terribly sociable.
I am quiet until you get to know me.
I am a good friend.
I don't like dill pickles.
I am chubby. Oh my.
I love to cook when I have time.
I love to decorate.
I like to eat pasta. (Hence, the chubby)
I love a glass of wine now and then.
I like comedies and dramas.
I don't read much.
I'm a visual person.
I miss my dad.
I like being outside.
I don't go to church.
I believe in God.
I don't like mustard on my hot dogs.
I like Las Vegas.
I have to push myself to exercise.
I should go to work today but I don't want to.
I love most flowers.
I'm not a big seafood eater.
I watch the soaps.
I listen more than I talk. Really!
I lead a simple life.
I drive an older car but the miles are low.
I don't use credit cards very much.
I don't know why I decided to do this list.
I watch American Idol and Dancing with the Stars.
I enjoy my blog time.
I don't care for over bearing people.
I am a hard worker.
I can't believe I'm halfway through this list.
I'm not much of a "bs" er
I am honest and trustworthy. (Sounds like a scout)
I don't smoke.
I am fairly neat but not obsessive.
I love magazines.
I like vanilla ice cream better than any other flavor.
I wish I was doing something more creative.
I love Christmas.
I'm good at math.
I get along well with my neighbors.
I have only been married once.
I don't like doctors.
I wish I had more free time.
I like to take pictures at all the family gatherings.
I can sew but don't very often.
I like to decorate cakes.
I like girl scout cookies. (Thin mints)
I like cottage/traditional style.
I have always lived in the Midwest.
I am afraid of spiders.
I won't drink milk after the date on it.
I like all kinds of pretty dinnerware.
I would rather buy decor items than clothes.
I do like shoes.
I don't wear a lot of jewelry.
I rarely wear fragrance.
I like to get my nails done.
I love art fairs.
I enjoy musicals.
I only have one brother.
I am stubborn, at times.
I will stand up for what I believe in.
I always try to vote.
I have 13 nieces and nephews.
I am the oldest in my family.
I'm usually a happy person.
I like antiques but don't have many.
I like to collect wedding pictures.
I like to travel but I'm really more of a home body.
I prefer diet coke over pepsi.
I like to walk my dog.
I like to play in the snow.
I prefer 70 degree weather.
I love to shop!!!!
I love to dig in the dirt.
I wish I'd worn more sunscreen when I was younger.
I'd love to win the lottery. Somebody has to.
I'm glad I'm done with this list!!! You're probably bored to tears.

This is a picture of the 99 steps in St Thomas, VI. We visited here a couple of years ago and believe me, there are 99 plus steps. I huffed and I puffed and I climbed those stairs.........and just after a giant margarita at Hotel 1829! Chubby girls shouldn't try to drink and climb stairs. LOL

Built in the mid 1700’s the 99 steps are actually 103 steps. Built by the Danes, these steps and many others could be found all over Charlotte Amalie and were believed the best way to climb up and down the town’s steep hills. Many historians believe that the stairway was actually a result of impractical planning on the part of Danish engineers who had never been to St. Thomas. The brick used to create the steps were originally brought from Denmark as ballast in the hulls of sailing ships.

Something to howl about!!!

2008-02-15T18:15:00.004-05:00

My dog has a new role model. (See my Bailey on my sidebar)

Westminster Dog Show

Uno, the barking beagle became the first of his breed to ever win the coveted best in show prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Despite the popularity of beagles in the U.S., none has ever won the top spot in the 100 year history of the prize. Uno strikes a pose with handler Aaron Wilkerson Tuesday night, after winning best in show at the 132nd Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Watch his win!

Three cheers for beagles!!! Hopefully Bailey will use Uno's picture for some diet inspiration.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T21:21:00.004-05:00

I thought I would share my Great Grandmother's blanket chest on this Valentine's Day. It was given to her by her "sweetie", my dear Great Grandfather back in 1897!!!

Hope you're having a good day with your "sweetie" or family.

Hugs,

Nan

Things aren't always as they appear

2008-02-11T19:57:00.000-05:00

A WOMAN was flying from Seattle to San Francisco. Unexpectedly, the plane was diverted to Sacramento along the way. The flight attendant explained that there would be a delay, and if the passengers wanted to get off the aircraft the plane would re-board in 50 minutes. Everybody got off the plane except one lady who was blind. The man had noticed her as he walked by and could tell the lady was blind because her Seeing Eye dog lay quietly underneath the seats in front of her throughout the entire flight. He could also tell she had flown this very flight
before because the pilot approached her, and calling her by name, said, "Kathy, we are in Sacramento for almost an hour. Would you like to get off and stretch your legs?" The blind lady replied, "No thanks, but maybe Buddy would like to stretch his legs."

Picture this:

All the people in the gate area came to a complete standstill when they looked up and saw the pilot walk off the plane with a Seeing Eye dog! The pilot was even wearing sunglasses. People scattered. They not only tried to change planes, but they were trying to change airlines!

THINGS AREN'T ALWAYS AS THEY APPEAR.

A DAY WITHOUT LAUGHTER IS A DAY WASTED!!!

Birthday calendar

2008-02-10T11:14:00.000-05:00

The birthday calendar tells you how long you've been alive in hours and minutes and even when you were most likely conceived! What songs were popular the year of your birth and other interesting information is included.

It also gives you your life path number. I'm a 7.

The Life Path 7 suggests that you entered this plane with a gift for investigation, analysis, and keen observation. You are a thinker of the first order. You evaluate situations very quickly, and with amazing accuracy. As a result, you are thorough and complete in your work, the perfectionist who expects everyone else to meet a high standard of performance, too.

A Life Path 7 person is a peaceful and affectionate soul. But you guard your connection to people carefully. It's easy for you to detect deception and recognize insincere people, and you avoid them. You aren't one to have a wide circle of friends, but once you accept someone as a friend, it's for life. It's as if you must get to know someone a lot better before you allow the wall surrounding you to be penetrated. Chances are you are a very charming and refined individual with great poise and a quick wit. Nonetheless, there is an exclusiveness about you. You probably aren't a very social person. Your reserve is often taken to be aloofness, but actually, it's not that at all. It is merely a cover up for your basic feeling of insecurity. There's no rush, It takes time for you to warm up to new friends. Clubs and organizations hold little interest for you; you are not a joiner.

Scary, this is sooooooooo me.

Sweetheart Burger

2008-02-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

I don't remember when I found this website, but Carolyne Roehm has some beautiful ideas and tips to share. She has several books on flowers, entertaining, and collections. She has a lovely article for February on having a romantic dinner. As the valentine's day holiday draws near, I think I'm going to keep it simple and do the sweetheart burger that she had suggested last February. Just use cookie cutters to cut out English muffins for buns, shape your burger in a cutter, and make potato chips cut in heart shapes.
She also has a simple fondue using heart shaped pound cake.

National Wear Your Bunny Slippers to Work day!

2008-02-07T22:16:00.000-05:00

Let's get comfortable.
Isn't this pillow sweet?
This lamp would look adorable in a little girl's room.
Hey, why not! I saw this in the Room Service home catalog.They have some adorable bunny items.

Going green.............

2008-02-05T20:26:00.000-05:00

I am tired of buying cleaning products that are costly and that contain lots of chemicals. I bought some simple ingredients at Wal-Mart and I'm planning on trying some recipes for basic cleaning supplies.

Most modern synthetic cleaning products are based on age-old formulas using natural ingredients that were passed down through the generations because the chemistry was right. Going back to the original naturally derived ingredients is a way to make cleaning products that work, don't pollute and save you money. Most are found in your kitchen cupboards.
Non-toxic cleaning can give you a deep feeling of gratification in knowing that your family's health is protected, and that your home is a place for your bodies to rest and recuperate rather than promote harm.

Here's a site for simple recipes for CREAMY SOFT SCRUBBER, WINDOW CLEANER, OVEN CLEANER, ALL-PURPOSE SPRAY CLEANER, FURNITURE POLISH, VINEGAR DEODORIZER, MOLD KILLERS.
Edited to say: That's not my hairy arm in the picture. LOL

Gender Specific Driving Ettiquette

2008-02-04T22:50:00.000-05:00

A woman is driving at night on a narrow country road. At the same time, a man is driving in the opposite direction on that same road.

When they narrowly pass each other at high speed, the woman rolls down her window and loudly shouts - HORSE! Immediately the man shouts back - *ITCH!
The man laughs. He is proud to have reacted so quickly to the shouting woman and takes the next turn in the road, maintaining his speed.

Moral of the story:
Men never listen, and when they do, they don't understand one word a woman says.

Looking at architecture in a new way.....

2008-02-03T20:24:00.000-05:00

I love the idea of making framed wall art with pictures of letters in architecture or every day items. I found this site and I'm thinking of ordering. Here is another site. I suppose I could make this myself if I start looking at buildings in a new way. I usually have my camera ready.

I think this would be a great wedding gift. If you know of any other sites that have these, please let me know.

Government Warning!!!

2008-02-03T08:37:00.001-05:00

*************GOVERNMENT WARNING*************
Do NOT swallow bubble gum!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry, I couldn't resist sharing this.

Guest room view 2

2008-02-02T16:59:00.001-05:00

On my guest room post, one of the ladies that I've known on line for a while didn't remember my guest room done in the blues. I rotate my look in there. I was doing animal prints for a while. I like to keep the walls neutral so that I can change the look often. I am thinking of changing it again. I have a quilt with pinks and green........so I may do that in there for a new look. I'll post it if I change it again.

What a week......................

2008-01-31T21:43:00.001-05:00

I am looking forward to the weekend! Gotta be better than the rest of this week.

Thursday night:
Bowling night. Bowled like crap. We lost all our games. Boo hoo...........

A winter storm is expected tonight and into the commute time tomorrow.

Wednesday night:

Had to attend a funeral. Freak accident happened to the brother of my H's aunt.

A 71-year-old man died after he apparently fell off a small tractor being used for the first time while working for the County Fish and Game Association, according to police.

The man may have fallen off the tractor or may have been checking the area of the mower deck when he was run over by the machine, according to the police report. The mower was not engaged, police said.

A neighbor noticed the tractor on top of the man and called for emergency services.

My husband's BD was today. We just had a quick dinner at Applebee's after the funeral. Not much of a celebration.

Tuesday night:

A heavy wind, rain, and snow storm blew through the county Tuesday night, leaving behind a trail of destruction. According to a press release , the storms were a part of a quick moving squall line that caused straight line wind damage in many areas across the central part of the state.

This was about 5 miles from us. Not to make light of this but.....................my husband immediately unplugged his new TV. I lit some candles in case we lost power. It was a relatively short storm but some very scary winds.
Edited to say that was NOT our house that was hit by the winds.

Be my guest

2008-01-30T21:41:00.000-05:00

Some friends and I were talking about what makes a guest room comfortable. I don't have a very big room for guests but I hope they are comfortable in it. Using a trundle bed allows some walk around room when I have only one guest. The trundle pulls out and up making a place for two.

A small spot in the closet or wardrobe for hanging or folded items. My armoire has a small TV in it and some fresh towels.
A place to sit.
A few soaps and fragrant items. I try to have a basket of travel sizes items like shampoos and toothpaste in case they forget something.

I need one of these. A luggage rack or somewhere to place a suitcase or bag.
Nice sheets, extra blankets, and pillows. Ironing sheets is nice with a linen spray. I usually sprinkle some baby powder into my pillow cases.
I think an alarm clock, a night table on which to place a few personal items, and a reading light are nice to have. Curtains or shades allow for privacy. I have a mirror on one wall. I like to clear my clutter too.

What would you like to have as a guest in someone's home?

The twinkle in his eyes.

2008-01-27T19:39:00.000-05:00

OMG.........You would think a new baby had been born yesterday. The twinkle in his eyes could just blind you. The smiles went from ear to ear. There she was...........a beauty...................the perfect picture.........................full of sweet sounds.........................and just in time for...................
THE SUPER BOWL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My H's "new baby"

Happy Sunday!

2008-01-27T11:54:00.000-05:00

I am behind at passing some awards along. The "you make my day" award came from Carolyn (Grams) and Janet. The "you cheer me up" award came from Grams. Thanks ladies. I really enjoy chatting with you.

I know several of you have already received these awards, but if you haven't........please consider them passed on to YOU!

I also was tagged for the 4 things from Sunnispace. So here goes:
4 jobs I've had...

Sales person
Display person
Store manager
Director/VP

4 movies I watch over and over...

Christmas Vacation
You've Got Mail
Sleepless in Seattle
A Christmas Carol

4 places I've lived...

Always lived in the Midwest

4 tv shows I watch...

Boston Legal
Grey's Anatomy
Numbers
Anything HGTV or Food Network

4 places I've been...
... and absolutely love:

Cancun, Mexico
St. Thomas, VI.
Las Vegas
Door County, WI.

4 people who email me regularly...

Husband
Friend, Diane
Friend, Tammy
Friend, BJ

4 favorite things to eat...

Pasta
Mexican food
Chicken dishes
Chocolate!

4 places I'd rather be...

Shopping
Traveling to new places
Cabin in the woods
Any place warm

4 things I look forward to this year...

Learning my new job
Getting into better shape
Trying to be more "green" at home
Picking up some of my art interests

4 people I will tag...

I will tag anyone who wants to play. I know, I know........ that's not 4.

Have fun!

Updated for the holiday

2008-01-26T17:17:00.000-05:00

I changed out my glass candlesticks to something more Valentine's Dayish. (new word) You might remember that I had moss, snow, and little pine cones in them at Christmas. In searching the house, I found red hots and pearls and I thought, why not.
I found the cute little heart shaped dishes at TJ Maxx. Also, the checked place mats with red heart napkins. That's all the decoration I'm doing for this holiday.

Your chocolate IQ

2008-01-25T21:41:00.000-05:00

Have you taken the test for your chocolate IQ? I got 100% right. Yippee!!!!!!!!!
I just love chocolate, especially dark. What's your favorite food or drink made with chocolate?
I love chocolate cake and Godiva open oysters.

"A balanced diet is chocolate in both hands".

Learning to cuss!

2008-01-23T21:13:00.000-05:00

A 6 year-old and 4 year-old are upstairs in their bedroom.

"You know what?" says the 6 year-old. "I think it's about time we started
cussing."

The 4 year-old nods his head in approval.

The 6 year -old continue, "When we go downstairs for breakfast, I'm gonna
say something with 'hell' and you say something with ass.

The 4 year-old agrees with enthusiasm.
When their mother walks into the kitchen and asks the 6 year-old
what he wants for breakfast, he replies, "Aw hell Mom, I guess I'll have
some Cheerios."
Whack! He flies out of his chair, tumbles across the kitchen floor,
up, and runs upstairs crying his eyes out with his mother in hot pursuit,
slapping his rear with every step. She locks him in his room and shouts,
"You can stay in there until I let you out." She then comes back downstairs,
looks at the 4 year-old and asks with a stern voice, "And what do YOU want
for breakfast, young man?

"I don't know," he blubbers, "but you can bet your fat ass it won't
be Cheerios."

National Pie Day!

2008-01-23T18:35:00.000-05:00

NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Chocolate Chip Pie

Ingredients:

1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell *
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup (6 oz.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 cup chopped nuts
Sweetened whipped cream or ice cream (optional)

Directions:
PREHEAT oven to 325° F.

BEAT eggs in large mixer bowl on high speed until foamy. Beat in flour, granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat in butter. Stir in morsels and nuts. Spoon into pie shell.

BAKE for 55 to 60 minutes or until knife inserted halfway between edge and center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack. Serve warm with whipped cream, if desired.

NOTES:
* If using frozen pie shell, use deep-dish style, thawed completely. Bake on baking sheet; increase baking time slightly.

Tammy at The Pink magnolia invited me to join in. Please join us. Her blog is private but if you e mail her, she will probably invite you in! She has Mr. Linky on her post. Stop by and see her.

Shepherd's Pie

2008-01-21T21:21:00.000-05:00

Last night for dinner I made my own version of a shepherd's pie. I fried about 1/4 of a lb. of bacon and set it aside to drain on paper towels. I poured off some of the fat and to the rest I cooked a few tablespoons of flour, then added beef stock (in a carton), canned mushrooms, a little Worcestershire sauce and salt and pepper to taste. Then I added some leftover deli beef torn into bite size pieces.

Meanwhile, I boiled 4-5 potatoes in salted water. When soft, I drained them and mashed them with butter, milk and a little sour cream.

I sprayed a casserole dish with Pam and added the meat/gravy mixture. I spread the mashed potatoes over the top and sprinkled with the bacon and paprika.

Then, I just put it under the broiler until lightly browned. Pretty tasty and we have enough for 1-2 more meals.

Picture courtesy of Rachel Ray

Need your opinion..........

2008-01-19T22:18:00.000-05:00

We are thinking of doing a little remodel in our master bath. We currently have a large jetted tub and a really dinky shower. Most of the time we don't have time to take a bath so often the dirty clothes hamper ends up sitting in the tub. The tub takes up a lot of space. My H wants to eliminate the tub and build a larger shower where the tub sits. He also wants to make a small closet for him on the end of the bathroom where the current shower is plus a little more space. I am so torn. I'd love a big shower but wonder about resale, not that we are planning a move. I'm thinking resale would be OK since we have another tub in the house. I also like the idea of a closet for him because that would give me the whole walk-in closet in our bedroom. But.............would I miss my jets???? Should we/could we put some jets in the shower for a reasonable price?

Got any good ideas for showers? We would do some sort of tile walls. I want a bench. I want an inset for shampoo etc.

Valentines Day- celebrate or not?

2008-01-17T21:42:00.001-05:00

I know I'm a bit early but I was wondering....... do you celebrate Valentine's Day at your house?
The cards above are made using quilling papers. Do you remember quilling? I used to decorate wedding invitations with flowers and leaves made from the papers. These look even easier.

We don't do a lot for the day but we get each other nice cards and I usually make a special meal. My H likes steak so.........probably a nice filet with some twice baked potatoes, asparagus, or salad. For dessert, I often use my heart shaped cake pans or make creme brulee. I thought these cup cakes looked like an easy treat using red hots to spell out X's and O's.

Images from Martha Stewart Living.

About Exercise.................

2008-01-16T19:17:00.001-05:00

This is dedicated to every woman who has ever attempted to get into a
>regular workout routine. A must read! If you can read this without
>laughing out loud, there is something wrong with you.
>
>- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
>
>Working Out
>
>Dear Diary...
>For my fiftieth birthday this year, my husband (the dear) purchased a week
>of personal training at the local health club for me. Although I am still
>in great shape since playing on my high school softball team, I decided it
>would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try. I called the club and
>made my reservations with a personal trainer I'll call Bruce, who
>identified himself as a 26 year old aerobics instructor and model for
>athletic clothing and swim wear. My husband seemed pleased with my
>enthusiasm to get started. The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart
>my progress.
>
>Monday:
>Started my day at 6:00 AM. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well
>worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Bruce waiting for me. He

>is something of a Greek God - with blond hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling
>white smile. Woo Hoo!! Bruce gave me a tour and showed me the machines. He
>took my pulse after five minutes on the treadmill. He was alarmed that my
>pulse was so fast, but I attribute it to standing next to him in his Lycra
>aerobic outfit. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which he conducted
>his aerobics class. I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching
>from holding it in the whole time he was around..... This is going to be a
>FANTASTIC week!!
>
>Tuesday:
>I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Bruce
>made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air - then he put

>weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made
>the full mile. Bruce's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel
>GREAT!! It's a whole new life for me.
>
>Wednesday:
>The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying on the toothbrush on the
>counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a
>hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer
>or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot. Bruce was
>impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members.
>His voice is a little too perky for early in the morning and when he
>scolds, he gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying. My chest hurt
>when I got on the treadmill, so Bruce put me on the stair monster. Why the
>hell would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered
>obsolete by elevators? Bruce told me it would help me get in shape and
>enjoy life. He said some other shit too.
>
>Thursday:
>Bruce was waiting for me with his vampire-like teeth exposed as his thin,
>cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half
>an hour late, it took me that long to tie my shoes. Bruce took me to work
>out with dumbbells. When he was not looking, I ran and hid in the men's
>room. He sent Lars to find me, then, as punishment, put me on the rowing
>machine - which I sank.
>
>Friday:
>I hate that bastard Bruce more than any human being has ever hated any
>other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic
>little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without
>unbearable pain, I would beat him with it. Bruce wanted me to work on my
>triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the
>floor, don't hand me the &*@*#$ barbells or anything that weighs more than
>a sandwich. (Which I am sure you learned in the sadist school you attended
>and graduated magna cum laude from.) The treadmill flung me off and I
>landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone

>softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?
>
>Saturday:
>Bruce left a message on my answering machine in his grating, shrilly voice
>wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing him made me want to
>smash the machine with my planner. However, I lacked the strength to even
>use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the
>*$@#&$ Weather Channel.
>
>Sunday:
>I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and
>thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my dear
>husband will choose a gift for me that is fun - like a root
>canal or a hysterectomy.

A little remodeling

2008-01-15T21:38:00.000-05:00

Window topper fabric.

Florescent light to rail lighting and pendant.

Dark to lighter paint and backsplash.

My brother is divorced and often asks for my input on decorating his home. He recently wanted to do an inexpensive remodel in his kitchen.

First, we got rid of the dark green paint. It was outdated and not a very good paint job. Patched the walls, primed and painted a lighter green paint. (He still wanted green.)

Then, we removed the florescent light fixture in the center of the ceiling. Patched and painted the ceiling. Replaced the fixture with rail lighting so that we could "spot" the cabinets. Added a red pendant light above the sink, as there was no lighting there before and you always had your back to the center light when doing dishes.

Next, what to do about a backsplash...........He wants to replace the counters down the road and we thought it was silly to tile the backsplash only to rip it out later if it didn't work with the counters. I found this pre-made backsplash that just mounts behind the stove. It goes up in under 10 minutes and comes down just as fast without damaging the wall.

Then, for a change, I removed the plates on the plate rail in the bay window area and I made some simple toppers. The green on the walls is in the fabric but it's hard to see here. I have some new fabric to cover the chair seats, as well.

Now, I'm suggesting some molding on the top of the cabinets and some simple accessories for above them.

Need some other accessories, maybe a chalkboard and something over the window toppers?

That's all the budget will allow for now. New flooring, counters, and oven/microwave combo will have to wait. I think it looks a lot better.

First Kiss

2008-01-14T19:13:00.001-05:00

It's your First Kiss and several questions might come to mind:

Is it the right time?

Is anyone watching?

Does your partner even want to?

Is your breath fresh?

AND,---Should you use some tongue?

Then you say . . ..

'What the heck!' and Just Go for it!!!

The playoffs

2008-01-13T19:57:00.000-05:00

Sorry to bore you with more football talk. I'll be brief.
Well, my Colts lost today. Boo hoo.......... We still have our GB Packers. I think the Super Bowl will end up being the Packers and New England. What do you think?

The Green Bay Packers will host the New York Giants in the NFC Championship on Sunday, Jan. 20 at Lambeau Field.

The Giants advanced by defeating the Dallas Cowboys, 21-17. Sorry, my Texas friends.

Football crazy!!!!

2008-01-13T00:07:00.000-05:00

We are a bit crazy for football at our house. The Colts play today and we will be decked out in our colts attire. Even Bailey "dresses" for the game in his scarf.

We are "cheese heads" too. We love the Green Bay Packers . Hooray, they won last night!

Here is some good football food.

BBQ Chicken Wings
INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 cup oyster sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1/4 cup gin
2 dashes liquid smoke flavoring
1/2 cup white sugar
1 1/2 pounds chicken wings, separated at joints, tips discarded
1/4 cup honey

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, gin, liquid smoke, and sugar. Place the chicken wings in the bowl, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator 8 hours or overnight.
Preheat the grill for low heat.
Lightly oil the grill grate. Arrange chicken on the grill, and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken wings on one side for 20 minutes, then turn and brush with honey. Continue grilling 25 minutes, or until juices run clear.

Edited to say: I leave out the gin because I don't like it.

Nacho Casserole
This is a delicious casserole that will remind you of getting a large order of nachos at your favorite restaurant. To cut the heat down omit the jalapeño pepper and hot sauce, or adjust to your liking.

1¼ hours 20 min prep

2	lbs lean ground beef
1	cup water
2 (1 1/4	ounce) envelopes taco seasoning mix (low sodium ok)
1 (4	ounce) can chopped green chili peppers
2 (15	ounce) cans refried beans
2	cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2	cups chopped tomatoes
1/2	cup chopped green onions or chives
1 (5	ounce) can sliced black olives
1	jalapeno, chopped and seeded
1 (13	ounce) bag golden tortilla chips or regular tortilla chips
	salt and pepper
	hot sauce
	sour cream
	guacamole

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Grease 9x13-inch baking dish.
Brown ground beef.
Stir in water, taco seasoning, chilies, jalapeño pepper, salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil and allow to simmer for 3 minutes.
Spread refried beans in bottom of baking dish and top with beef mixture.
Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Remove from oven sprinkle with cheese tomato, onions and olives.
Arrange 18-20 tortilla chips around edges of baking dish.
Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
Top with sour cream, guacamole or fresh salsa.
Serve with remaining chips.

GO COLTS!!!!!!!!!!!

My Valentines

2008-01-12T14:49:00.000-05:00

Here is my attempt at the picture frame plates that I saw in my magazine the other day. You may remember this from my post the other day. I had some other pictures of niece's babies that I was gonna use but I didn't seem to have the right sizes. I found the plain white heart plates at TJ Maxx. I think the total of all three was about $10. I took my Bailey's picture and his doggie friend, Laddie, and cut them out to fit the plates and just taped them on with double-faced tape. I found some rub on transfers in my craft stuff and rubbed on the "Best Friends" and the hearts. I tried weaving the ribbon completely around the edge of the plate but it covered up a lot of the decorative edge.
I can always change them out to something else if I want a different look. This took no time and was super easy.

Accessories for my office

2008-01-10T22:22:00.000-05:00

No this isn't me. Maybe I would be this thin if I was 6 ft. tall. This is kind of my look, only on a shorter chubbier level.

I am in search of the perfect accessories for my new office at work. I know I should be focusing on "the numbers" but please...............................we have to look good while we're working don't we? My office has green and yellow/gold walls with green cabinets. I am fortunate to be in a fairly new building, just a year old. I like these colorful items because they are not just pretty but they will help keep me awake. LOL These are all from Room Service Home. I will probably search some local stores for less expensive versions of these looks. How do you like them?
I'll take pictures of my office once I get it prettied up!

The Daily Dose!

2008-01-08T20:20:00.000-05:00

Karen and Carolyn (Grams) passed this award to me. Thank you so much ladies.

"So here's to all the blogs that you've discovered that you can't possibly live without. They make you laugh, cry, think and feel connected every time you read a post. They give you a thrill as you see them loading into your browser and you get an equally satisfying thrill when you see that they have commented on your blog".

I pass this award to some of my favs. It's hard to choose just a couple since I love many blogs.

Pat always has such wonderful travel tours and decorating pictures @ Back Porch Musings
Robin makes me smile with her silly/movie pictures @ Bitter Sweet Punkin

Oh, what a dish

2008-01-07T19:40:00.000-05:00

I found this idea in one of my magazines. A decorative plate with a photo in the center. You just take a compass and make a circle the size of your plate's center, cut the picture to that size, and then attach the photo with double face tape. What a sweet grouping this would be for Valentines day or anytime. You could cut a red or pink round for the center and add a heart-shaped photo on top of that. I think I'll try this over the weekend.

HGTV Dream Home

2008-01-06T20:01:00.001-05:00

Well, I just entered the HGTV Dream Home giveaway. Every year, I'm just so sure I'll win it since I am such a loyal HGTV watcher. This year's house is not my favorite, but none the less I wouldn't turn it down if I won. It's a little more modern than some of the previous homes and it's in the Florida Keys. They even have a doggy dream house, but Bailey could care less since he likes our bed.

I will keep entering once a day until February 19th until the drawing closes. Last year an older gentleman won and he did not seem excited at all to me. I'm sure his wife was, though. She looked much younger and they had only recently married. Obviously, we would probably have to sell it to pay the taxes on this $2.2 million package. We would gather friends and family and enjoy it for a short while.

I'm staying positive and BELIEVING that I actually have a chance to win it. LOL
If you want to enter, here is the site. Be sure to check out the home tour. Good luck my friends.

I'm dreaming of a white.............

2008-01-05T20:19:00.001-05:00

There's something about white/ivory bedding that makes me feel so pampered and calm.
I love these sheets. The detail is beautiful.

A lovely monogrammed album for beside the bed.
A lot of ruffles and layers of bedding and pillows.
Crisp white hotel bedding. I feel like I'm at a spa hotel.
I actually did have white bedding on my bed this summer but have gone to a dark chocolate coverlet for the winter. Also, the beagle hair and white are not terribly compatible. But, I'm still dreaming of a white bedroom.

Penchants, pondering and posies is having a winter white giveaway. Drop by her place to find out about it.

Friends..........forever?

2008-01-05T08:24:00.001-05:00

Nobody ever said kitties have good grammar. LOL

Confidence!

2008-01-03T22:46:00.000-05:00

Sherry at Sage and Thyme recently posted a quote about believing in yourself. We should believe in our own worth and have confidence in ourselves. I am trying to do this as I approach my new job. At home, we have a quote about confidence on our office wall. It actually surrounds a picture of the Indy 500 track.

"If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won even before you have started."

Believe, be confident, and be open to all the possibilities!

A tasty meal

2008-01-02T20:41:00.000-05:00

Tonight I made a crock pot meal.

4- 6 Pork chops ( I used pork country ribs)
vegetable oil
1 onion
1 can low fat cream of mushroom soup
1 small can of sliced mushrooms or fresh sliced
1/2 cup apple juice
2 tablespoons of crushed tapioca
salt & pepper
thyme

Brown trimmed chops in skillet in the vegetable oil
Slice onion into bottom of crock pot
Add chops or country ribs
Add soup, mushrooms, apple juice, and tapioca
Add salt, pepper and thyme to your taste

Cook on low setting 8 hours

Serve with a green salad. You could make some rice or noodles if you like and serve the pork & gravy on top.

Back on track!

2008-01-02T14:24:00.000-05:00

After the holiday cookies and goodies, it's time to get back on track and go to the gym. We are fortunate to have a really nice center only a few miles from us. The center also has a really nice indoor pool. I renewed our membership for Christmas and I hope my good intentions pay off. I am also trying to decide whether or not to sign up for Jenny Craig or one of the other weight loss food plans.

Do you have any "skinny recipes" to share or any other ideas? Also, what diet plans have worked well for you? My SIL has had great success with Weight Watchers.

I have a really hard time getting motivated. But, enough is enough. I'm tired of being chubby!!!!!! My Bailey the beagle is also on a diet. He's not loving it but he's lost 4 lbs. in a month.

Wish me luck.

Let's celebrate!

2007-12-30T00:30:00.000-05:00

December 31st is definitely a day for celebration. It's not only New Year's Eve but our dear friend Jean's birthday! It's not every day you get to be 70! Especially looking so good. Please drop by her place at Sweet Nothings and wish here the very best birthday ever.
Here's to you my friend.................................................................

Why men are never depressed

2007-12-29T11:42:00.000-05:00

Men Are Just Happier People-- What do you expect from such simple creatures?
Your last name stays put. The garage is all yours. Wedding plans take care of themselves. Chocolate is just another snack. You can be President. You can never be pregnant. You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park. You can wear NO shirt to a water park. Car mechanics tell you the truth. The world is your urinal. You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky. You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt. Same work, more pay. Wrinkles add character.
Wedding dress $5000. Tux rental-$100. People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them. New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
One mood all the time.

Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat. You know stuff about tanks. A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase. You can open all your own jars. You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness. If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend.

Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack. Three pairs of shoes are more than enough. You almost never have strap problems in public. You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes. Everything on your face stays its original color. The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades. You only have to shave your face and neck.

You can play with toys all your life. One wallet and one pair of shoes -- one color for all seasons. You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.
You can "do" your nails with a pocket knife. You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.

You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier.

Share this with women who can handle it and to the men who will enjoy reading it

The Christmas Mouse

2007-12-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine sent me this sweet story.

By Betty LeBaron Mostert

When I was a child in the 1950s and 1960s, our Christmas traditions were not elaborate—except for the stockings. Because we children enjoyed our Christmas stockings so much, we continued the tradition when we married and had children of our own. Buying surprises and assembling dozens of Christmas stockings, however, soon became too much for my aging parents, especially my mother, who had a serious case of rheumatoid arthritis that limited her mobility and energy.

Eventually, I volunteered to take over the project. Our annual extended family home evening, in which we acted out the Christmas story and opened our stockings, found me exhausted from the demands of being the mother of several small children and juggling the events of an active life. As I watched everyone dump treasures out of the gingham Christmas stockings I had carefully prepared, I was feeling a little sorry for myself.

As expected, my stocking was empty except for the standard candy cane and Japanese orange that I had placed there earlier. But as I shook them out, I noticed a little bedraggled mouse made of a walnut and hazelnuts. One ear was much bigger than the other, and the whiskers were crooked. The tail had been cut too short, and the loop to hang it on the tree was off center. I was confused. Had someone’s kindergarten project ended up in my stocking?

I looked up and saw my mother watching me from her wheelchair across the room. With a gnarled, bent finger, she beckoned to me.

“I wanted to do something for the Christmas stockings,” she said. “They made these little mice in Relief Society, and they were so cute.”

Her tears were close to the surface, and her gentle voice shook as she continued.

“I couldn’t get my fingers to work, so I made only one. It didn’t turn out, but I knew you wouldn’t mind.”

I looked again at the little mouse in my hand. She was right. I didn’t mind. In fact, her little bedraggled mouse became the most precious treasure of all that Christmas.

For more than 20 years, I have tenderly removed the tissue paper from the misshapen mouse crafted by misshapen fingers and carefully placed it on a branch. My angel mother has been free of her crippled body for several years, but her Christmas mouse reminds me of two profound truths.

The first is that my mother honored me by believing that I could look past the mouse’s crooked ears and feel the love and sacrifice that went into its creation. The second is that if I, as an imperfect mortal, am capable of finding beauty in a humble little mouse, how much more is our Father in Heaven capable of seeing past our imperfect efforts and understanding our pure intentions.

I know that when we do our best to give to others and to Him, our gift is not just good enough—it is of incalculable worth.

Wow, it's over!

2007-12-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

This Christmas stuff is exhausting. Everybody crashed after Christmas dinner, including Bailey. We had a great time with family and I hope you did too. We did Christmas eve at my brother's house about 2 1/2 hours from here and then back to my in-laws for Christmas day. I am actually working on Wednesday and Thursday this week. We are off to Wisconsin on Friday for a surprise birthday party on Saturday and then New Year's eve. Not sure if I'll be able to post from Wisconsin. Availability to the net might be limited. Boo hoo..........................

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from our home to yours. I am thankful for all my blogging friends. This will be my last post until after Christmas.
I may come visit if I have a few minutes. Hugs!

Nan

Light display for Christmas

2007-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

A friend sent me this Christmas display. Check it out and turn up your volume for the music. It's very cool.

Stars and angels!

2007-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Button box stars.
Coffee filter angel. Instructions.
Tabletop angel.

I saw these on the BHG website. I think they are adorable.

Christmas Hoopla!

2007-12-19T19:55:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged by Karen to participate in the Christmas Hoopla. You just tell 12 random things about yourself having to do with Christmas.

When we were kids, Mom would take us with her to take things to a needy family. Really made us appreciate what we had.
We always "adopt" a child at the local woman's shelter at Christmas.
I like to cook and bake cookies with my friends or family at Christmas.
I love to decorate for Christmas. It's my favorite holiday.
When I was a kid I always wanted one of those long ribbons of suckers. Why, I don't know.
My husband isn't a stocking filler. Wish he was. He might buy some smallish items but doesn't use the stocking. ????
My Dad passed away a few days after Christmas a few years ago. I miss him so much. I try not to be depressed at Christmas as he had a full happy life. I think of the good times.
I can't wait to go "home" for Christmas. We all get along so well.
My husband and I always wait until Christmas morning to open our gifts to each other.
I love to have snow on Christmas eve and Christmas day.

1. List 12 random things about yourself that has to do with Christmas.2. Please refer to it as hoopla and not the dreaded m-word.3 According the the creator, Andrea, you must specifically tag your people. There's none of this saying, "if you reading this consider yourself tagged.4. Hurry, Christmas is coming and Andrea would like as many people to get involved in this as possible so it can make the rounds and we can read 12 things about everyone and Christmas.

I tag these friends for the "Christmas Hoopla":

Rose
Susie
Terri

Christmas Golf

2007-12-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Four old-timers were playing their weekly game of golf, and one remarked
> how nice it would be
> to wake up on Christmas morning, roll out of bed and without an argument
> go directly to the golf
> course, meet his buddies and play a round. His buddies all chimed in and
> said, 'Let's do it! We'll
> make it a priority to figure out a way and meet here early Christmas
> morning.' Months later, that
> special morning arrives, and there they are on the golf course.
>
> The first guy says, 'Boy this game cost me a fortune! I bought my wife
> such a diamond ring that
> she can't take her eyes off it.'
>
> The second guy says, 'I spent a ton, too. My wife is at home planning the
> cruise I gave her.. She
> was up to her eyeballs in brochures.'
>
> The third guy says 'Well my wife is at home admiring her new car, reading
> the manual.'
>
> They all turned to the last guy in the group who is staring at them like
> they have lost their minds.
> ' I can 't believe you all went to such expense for this golf game. I
> slapped my wife on the butt
> and said, 'Well babe, Merry Christmas! It's a great morning for either sex
> or golf.' . . . and she
> said........'Take a sweater.'
>

Whew..........Day One!

2007-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Day one at work was exhausting. So much to learn, so little time. I sure hope this old dog will be able to catch on to some new tricks. I had to go to bed early last night, which I never do.

Our Christmas Open House!

2007-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Twas an Open House ………

Twas a few days before Christmas, at our Open House,

Not a space was undecorated, not even the couch.

The stockings were hung, including the dogs,

In the hope we would be visited by many other blogs.

The egg nog was made and spiked with some rum,

And put in nice cups for the people that come.

With me in my red sweater and my husband in black,

We hoped many people would stop for a snack.

When out on the porch I heard a bell ring,

So I jumped from my chair to hear my friends sing.

Away to the door I ran like a deer.

To greet a few guests and wish them good cheer.

The candlelight glistened as they walked in the door,

This was just the beginning of my Christmas décor.

When what to their wondering eyes should appear,

but a reflection of crimson and gold in the mirror.

With a cute little tree, all decked in white lights,

They knew they would enjoy my other delights.

With eager excitement, they ran through my home,

Finding red birds and Santas placed under a dome.

More rapid than Helio, the bloggers they came,

And I greeted and shouted and called them by name!

Hi BJ, hi Karen, hi Janet, hi Pat. There’s Boo mama and

Terri and Alice and Matt. Hi Penny, Manuela, Sherry and Julie.

Hi Rose and Dena and Robin and Millie.

To the office, to the great room, to the kitchen, and hall,

They wouldn’t stop looking until they saw it all.

As they ate and they drank, they noticed there was more,

A village of houses with a church and a store.

So away to the village they flew like a flash,

Like kids in a candy store they did a quick dash.

And then in a twinkling, I heard someone say,

We have more blogs to visit so we must be on our way.

They sprang to their keyboards and entered more sites,

And I heard them exclaim as they took their last bites.

“Happy Christmas to all my blogging friends

and to all a good night!”

Welcome to our home.
The lights are on.
A peak at the window.

A decorated sled greets you at the door.
Bubble lights in the windows.
Candlelight.
Candles on the curio.
Stockings, including Bailey the beagle's.
The crimson and gold tree. Small but shining.

I like this poinsettia gift wrap.
Close up of the poinsettias on my tree.
A new ornament from a friend. It plays silent night too. I love it.
Lots of crimson and gold balls on the tree.
I've been adding picture ornaments of the nieces and nephews.
These balls are red and green but look like pink and green.
My round little wooden Santa.
Santas under my cloche in the kitchen.
Would you care for a cookie?

My Santa Chef!
Would you like a cup of tea? It's not exactly Chritmas but the colors worked.
New kitchen dishes on the plate rack.
These are my cardinals under my cloche on the coffee table.
Santas, Santas everywhere. I love all kinds of them.

This one has a great beard.
This one too!
I like this one's curly beard and eye brows.

A night picture.

I like how the red awning in my picture kinda frames Santa. He looks like he's had a hard night.
This one is by the baker's rack.
This is my little red chair from when I was a child. I'm sitting in it on my sidebar photo. Wouldn't get my butt in it now, I don't think.

These are my vintage skiers, skaters and sledders. All the ones displayed are actual 1950's ones that were under my husbands Christmas tree when he was a kid. My MIL was sweet enough to give them to me. A couple of years ago, I was lucky to find some reproduction ones to add to it. You can see the boxes in the background.

Please bring your bags and stop at the hotel for the night. Then you can spend an evening at the theater on the left. We'll bring a horse drawn carriage to escort you through the rest of the village. So grab a blanket and hot chocolate and enjoy the ride.
Here is the hotel during the day.
Here is my baker's rack filled with my village houses. I have been collecting them for years and I actually have about 60 houses but only a third are out right now. I try to combine some of my early ones with a few newer ones. I am a Dickens purist, you might say. I actually have a train, train station and all of that as well but we didn't get it all out this year.
The house on the left was a new purchase this year. It's the university. You can see the graduates on the bridge. Off to the right is the solarium with all the people that actually move and dance around.
The left house is the brewery. Every town has to have it's local brew pub. And, of course, stop by the poulterer's for a chicken for dinner.
Make a stop by the coal merchant to stock up on fuel for the winter.
These are a couple of my early houses. The one on the left is a toy shop and on the right an antique shop. The early houses were much smaller and less detailed than the houses today.
This is the East Indies trading company.
Of course, a doctors office, on the left, is important to any town.
My vintage tree in the office with ornaments from Mom and some vintage looking postcards.

My Barbie and Ginny doll and a toy I bought to represent my beagle, Bailey.
I just love the movie/book "Scrooge" or "A Christmas Carol". I had to have Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and Scrooge himself. A couple of carolers also stand in front of my Christmas Carol book in the office.
This is my husband's Indianapolis Colts Nutcracker in our home office.

This is the Santa in my hallway. I think I like his face the best of all my Santas. This is about the only wallpaper I have left in my house. I always kinda liked the books.

This is my dress form in the guest room with red lights. I know they look pink in the picture.

The little stocking is hanging on the armoire in the guest room. It's the one I made from my sweater. You may have seen it in my previous post.

These are a couple of Santas in my guest bath. I like the picture the best since it's a little more old fashioned looking. But I've never met a Santa I don't like

This is a hand-painted ornament from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. We went there last year on a vacation. Our friends live down there and this reminds me of them.

This is my little blue tree in our bedroom. It's one of the few places where I actually have snowmen. Our bedroom is mocha colored with blue and turquoise accents. I love snowmen, but I have a passion for Santas. I just love all their facial expressions.
Most importantly, the reason for the season!
I love my hand-painted nativity. I have it displayed on my dresser.
While religion is not part of everyone's Christmas, hopefully peace on earth and good will toward men will be. Have a blessed Christmas and be thankful for family and friends. I'm thankful for you.

Your friend Nan from "On my Porch".

My header is back!

2007-12-16T20:38:00.000-05:00

Yippee! My header is big again. I took my blog description off and added my blog name to my picture and reloaded the picture. Sheesh. Too much thinking on this Sunday night.

I didn't post earlier because our modem went out and I've been 30 hours without email and blogging. I thought the paramedics were gonna have to be called to give me an internet injection. LOL

Hope you had a good day. Tomorrow is my first day of school, I mean work! Wish me luck.

Working 8 to 5!

2007-12-15T08:28:00.000-05:00

Well, I am going back to work on Monday. I know that I said on my profile that I was taking a career break, but the break is over. I have a great opportunity. I found the perfect, I hope, position where I can use my experience and skills and only travel 6 1/2 miles from home. Can't beat that!

Yes, I'm going to keep blogging but I may have to visit in the evenings. Wouldn't want to lose the job by blogging all day. LOL It will be a hard habit to break and I'm sure I'll be itching to see what's going on in blog world. I will still post my Christmas stuff on the 17th during the Bigmama's open house but I will have to post and run, since that's my first day.
Wish me luck.

OK, I know I'm no Melanie Griffith, But I wouldn't mind hangin' out with Harrison Ford.
I'm not Dolly either, workin' 9 to 5.

To be 6 again!

2007-12-14T07:40:00.000-05:00

Oh, yes. Oh, yes!

To Be 6 Again... A man was sitting on
the edge of the bed, observing his wife,looking at
herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was
not far off he asked what she'd like to have for her
Birthday. " I'd like to be six again", she
replied, still looking in the mirror. On the
morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made her a
nice big bowl of Lucky Charms, and then
took her to Six Flags theme park. What a day!
He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide,
the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Monster Roller Coaster,
She rode on everything there was. Five hours later
they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was
reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took
her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy
Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake. Then it
was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her
favorite candy, M&M's. What a fabulous adventure!
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed
into bed exhausted. He leaned over his wife with a big
smile and lovingly asked, "Well Honey, what was it like
being six again?" Her eyes slowly opened and her
expression suddenly changed. "I meant my dress size,
you dumb ass ".
The moral of the story: Even when a man is
listening, he is gonna get it wrong.

My header shrunk????? Anybody know why? I looked it up in help but didn't get a good answer. Whawwwww

Got milk?

2007-12-13T08:07:00.000-05:00

We had a cookie marathon last Saturday. We had the oven on for nearly eight hours. I baked with my friend, her daughter, and her daughter's friend. We had a great time, coming up with about sixteen kinds before we were done. We send some to friends and relatives and give some to neighbors. When we were done we ordered pizza and collapsed into our chairs.

I only ate 3 cookies all day. Not bad, if I do say so myself.
The easiest were the poor man's turtles. Just a pretzel with a melted Rolo on top and a pecan.

You can see some of the before mess and the after RESULTS!

Cookie anyone? Got milk?
Poor man's turtles
Mexican wedding cakes
snicker doodles
peanut butter w choc drizzles
chocolate chip
mint chocolate chocolate chip
thumbprint
kitchen sink cookies
fruit bars
peanut clusters
decorated sugar
dipped chocolate sugar
no bake
lemon bars
oatmeal scotchies
cranberry oatmeal chip

A few fun Christmas things

2007-12-12T07:32:00.000-05:00

I found this tablecloth, the sleds, sled shelves, and ski peg racks on Pottery Barn Kids. I think they are just adorable. I would love to find a spot for one of these. It's OK for me to be a Pottery Barn kid isn't it? Not sure what a tablecloth is doing on PB Kids, but it's cute. They have some adorable gifts. Check it out. I was surprised. I usually toss my catalogs after a quick glance.

All of our snow is gone except for a few piles in parking lots. It has been raining and raining. I guess I should be thankful for not getting the ice storms. We went to our neighborhood ladies group Christmas dinner last night. We had a great time.

Have a great day!

Mrs. Claus' Cookbook!

2007-12-11T07:08:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Claus' Cookbook has lots of goodies to make for Christmas. This site also has a lot of fun kid's games.
Somebody sent this to me recently and I thought I would share it with you.
My post is short and sweet today. I had problems with my computer yesterday and you would have thought they had cut off my right arm. At any rate, I didn't have much time to get a post together.
Have a great day!
Click on the underlined to go to the site.

I miss hockey...........

2007-12-10T07:03:00.000-05:00

I am so missing my nieces hockey games this year. She is on a traveling team and they go all over the place but unfortunately not here this season. They are based out of Pittsburgh this year, even though they live in Ohio.

She is quite good and very disciplined about it. She has the kind of personality that the other kids look up to and they respect her advice on the ice.

Her brother plays hockey too. He just turned 17 and she is 13. I'm so glad that they have this sport to keep their minds and bodies occupied and not on other stuff. They are truly great kids.

Not having kids myself, I love to attend our nieces and nephews events. We have 13 nieces and nephews. Some are married now and having babies which is so hard to believe. We are so blessed that they are all good kids. No criminals or crazies.

What sports do your kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews play?

A quiet Sunday

2007-12-09T08:39:00.000-05:00

I am exhausted from a long day of cookie making on Saturday, so I am taking a blogging day off. (We'll see how long that lasts.) Have a blessed Sunday.

I have been slow to pass some awards along so I thought I'd take this opportunity to do that.
I pass the blog buddies to Janet @ Housepeepers.

I pass the friends award to Robin @ Bittersweet Punkin.

Vintage gifts

2007-12-08T07:23:00.000-05:00

I posted my little vintage tree the other day. My friends and I have great memories of our childhoods and we were talking the other day about some of the old candies and such. When I was a kid, we had a little neighborhood store that was on the way home from school and we would visit and buy penny candy like the juice wax milk bottles and pixie stiks.

So, I decided that this year for our neighbor gifts I would do a vintage theme. (Our neighbors are about our ages.) I started gathering old candies that we remembered along with some Teaberry gum. I found some black and white dvds of episodes of Andy Griffith, Lucy, and Jack Benny at Cracker Barrel. I bought some cigar type boxes at the dollar store. We had a lot of our treasures in those when we were kids. I assembled all the stuff in the boxes and added a vintage ornament. For gift tags, I used a couple of old pictures of us as kids. (Just what everybody wants, right?)

At any rate, it was fun doing and I hope our friends don't think I'm too crazy.

Soup-tacular

2007-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

BooMama started a soup-tacular for today. Just post your favorite soup recipe. Here's mine. It is super easy and very few ingredients.

Chicken Velvet Soup (originally served at the LS Ayres tea room in Indianapolis)

Yield: 5 Servings

6 tb Butter or margarine
1/2 c  Milk
3 c  Chicken broth
1 ds Pepper
6 tb Flour
1/2 c  Light cream
1 c  Fine chopped cooked chicken

In a sauce pan, melt butter or margarine. Blend in flour,
then stir in milk, cream, and chicken broth. Cook over
medium heat,stirring constantly until mixture thickens
and comes to a boil. Reduce heat. Stir in finely cooked
chicken and dash of pepper. Return soup to boiling and
serve immediately.

My little vintage tree

2007-12-06T07:45:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted a lot of Christmas yet. This is one of three trees that I have up in our home. This one I put in our home office. We always had tinsel garland on our tree when we were kids. I put colored lights on it but I did use the little ones since it's a small tree. I found the postcard reproductions and I thought they added to the look. Most of the ornaments came from Mom and a few I purchased at a local antique and flea market. The Barbie and Ginny doll were mine, the ballerina doll was my Aunts. Snoopy, I bought to represent my Bailey the beagle. I need to find an old toy truck for my husband. Of course, I had to add a Santa and a stuffed bear! I just absolutely love Santas.......and bears for that matter. I have always loved Christmas and I have great childhood memories of it.

Apples and wine

2007-12-05T07:09:00.000-05:00

Apples and wine

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the
tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are
afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the
apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the
top think something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're
amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the
one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now men ............ men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes,
and it's up to women to stomp the sh** out of them until they turn into
something acceptable to have dinner with.

Share this with all the good apples you know.

***********************************************************************************
We've got snow today! Yippee! So pretty. Of course, I don't have to drive in it today. I love a first snow. Hope you all have a great day!
If you were here earlier, I changed my graphic. It was getting on my nerves. LOL

A little decorating outside

2007-12-04T07:39:00.001-05:00

We did a little Christmas decor outside.
Window boxes with lights and poinsettias. I just got these window boxes last year and I'm having fun decorating them for the seasons.

My husband's flag pole Christmas tree. It looks great at night. He made a piece with holes drilled around the edges to attach to the top of the pole. Then he added the strands of lights with S hooks and brought them down to a hoop made from light plumbing pipe.

A little garland on the porch and wreathes on all the windows. I just raked leaves and they're all over the lawn again. Dang. I put red bubble lights in our candles in the windows but it is hard to see here.

Christmas in the Village of Zionsville

2007-12-03T07:33:00.000-05:00

Perennial Shop

Nancy Noel Gallery (artist)

Hum Bug- The Attic Antiques
Coach and horse at the Brick Street Inn

Carter's Toy Museum

Historic brick streets
For the kids
The Friendly tavern. A good place for lunch and they are very friendly.

We went to Zionsville on Saturday. It is a small historic town in Indiana just northwest of Indianapolis. Lots of antiques, little shops, and restaurants. You can wander along the brick streets and listen to Christmas carols during their Christmas in the village. It was a good time. Bought a few more Santas and an ornament for an exchange. It was quite cold but that added to the Christmas spirit.

What holiday are you?

2007-12-02T19:59:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Talk to Grams blog. What holiday are you? I was Thanksgiving.

***You Are Thanksgiving***

You are a bit of a homebody who enjoys being in the company of people you love.

It doesn't take a lot to make you happy. You're enjoying life as it is.

You have many blessings in your life, and you are grateful for each one.

You believe that life is about what you *do* have. You feel like you have enough of the good stuff.

What makes you celebrate: Family, friends, and the changing of the seasons.

At holiday get togethers, you do best as: The host of the party

On a holiday, you're the one most likely to: Spend so much energy preparing that it's a full time job

What Holiday Are You?

Something to think about..............

2007-12-02T08:22:00.000-05:00

A recent e mail that I received:

READ THIS VERY SLOWLY... IT'S PRETTY PROFOUND.

Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine. I got to thinking one day about all those people on the Titanic who passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back. From then on, I've tried to be a little more flexible. How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't suggest going out to dinner until after something h ad been thawed? Does the word "refrigeration" mean nothing to you? How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you watched ' Jeopardy' on television? I cannot count the times I called my sister and said , "How about going to lunch in a half hour?" She would gas up and stammer, "I can't. I have clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I had known yesterday, I had a late breakfast, It looks like rain" And my personal favorite: "It's Monday." She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together. Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our headaches.. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves when all the conditions are perfect! We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-room carpet. We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college. Life has a way of accelerating as we get older. The days get shorter, and the list of promises to ourselves gets longer. One morning, we awaken, and all we have to show for our lives is a litany of "I'm going to," "I plan on," and "Someday, when things are settled down a bit." When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure and available for trips. She keeps an open mind on new ideas. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes, and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Rollerblades and skip an elevator for a bungee cord. My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and bought a trip le-decker cone. If my car had hit an iceberg on the way home, I would have died happy. Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to...not some thing on your SHOULD DO list. If you were going to die and had only one phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And why are you waiting?

Candlesticks to fill

2007-12-01T07:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday! Hope you have a fabulous day.

I got some money for my birthday last week, so I thought I'd share my new find. I found these great candlesticks at a local gift shop. They are hollow at the bottom allowing you to fill them with whatever materials you want! I put each one on a clear plate to hold the goodies in.

Well, my mind is racing with the possibilities. I added pine cones, moss, berries, and fake snow. I have a few other ideas but what ideas can you think of for them?

Holiday humor........

2007-11-30T07:32:00.000-05:00

Christmas Meme

2007-11-29T09:01:00.000-05:00

Hootin' Annie started this meme and I thought it would be fun. Visit her blog for the format.

"The Twelve Questions of Christmas"

1. Christmas is magical . [fill in the blank with ONE WORD]

2. In memories, what was the best part of your Christmases past?
I loved it when our families went to the cabin in the woods and had an old fashioned Christmas with hand-made ornaments, a live tree, roaring fire, and watched deer roaming around outside.

3. Was Santa ever good to you? [describe how and what]
My husband surprised me with a long fur coat. (before things got so controversial)

4. Do you open gifts on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both?
Mostly Christmas Day. Even though it's just the two of us, we always WAIT until Santa comes.

5. Is there something you make each and every year? [craft or recipe]
Peanut brittle with my MIL

6. What is your favorite five[5] Christmas songs/hymns?
White Christmas, Chestnuts Roasting on an open fire, I'll Be Home for Christmas, Oh Holy Night, Let it Snow

7. Is there a new tradition for Christmas since your childhood days?
Putting dated picture frames on the tree with pictures from Christmases past.

8. Describe one of your Christmas trips. [whether it's across town or across country]
Hummmmm, I'll have to think about this one.

9. Do you have a special Christmas outfit to wear for the day?
Not really. I usually wear red, though.

10. Have YOU or any of your family members sat on Santa's lap?
Of course. Even my old dog did at Petsmart. We always had those crying pics as kids.

11. What is/or will be on your Christmas tree this year?
Crimson and gold ornaments.

12. Do you/or have you decorated your yard for Christmas?
Yep. Made a tree of lights from the flag pole. Wreathes on the windows, bubble light candles.

12 days of Cookies

2007-11-29T07:30:00.000-05:00

I received my first cookie recipe from Food Network yesterday. It's not too late to sign up for them to e mail new recipes to you. I'm always looking for new ideas. Click on underlined cookie to go to their site.
Almond lace cookies were day 1.
Anything drizzled in chocolate is great in my book!

Do you bake cookies with friends or family? I bake cookies with my neighbor friend and her daughter. I think we had 15 different kinds last year. The husbands kept passing by the kitchen and sampling. LOL

It's a girl!

2007-11-28T07:22:00.000-05:00

REMEMBER THIS AT CHRISTMAS TIME
According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, while both male and female reindeer grow antlers in the summer each year, male reindeer drop their antlers at the beginning of winter, usually late November to mid-December. Female reindeer retain their antlers until after they give birth in the spring.

Therefore, according to EVERY historical rendition depicting Santa's reindeer, EVERY single one of them, from Rudolph to Blitzen, had to be a girl.

We should've known... ONLY women would be able to drag a fat man in a red velvet suit all around the world in one night and not get lost.

Christmas villages

2007-11-27T07:29:00.000-05:00

Good morning. Thanks for all the birthday greetings.
Oh, I just love Christmas villages. These pictures are all from Room Service Home. You can find their site in my sidebar. I love all these pastel looking ones even though mine are traditional colors. I collect Dickens houses but I don't have them all set up yet. I'll post them later.

It's my party!

2007-11-26T08:50:00.000-05:00

This is my second post today. I forgot that I was gonna post this today. (Dumb blonde moment) Today's the day. Yep, another birthday. My DH surprised me with an early BD cake on Thanksgiving Day since we were gathered with family. Oh my gosh, I have enough sugar in me to last a lifetime. But, it was very sweet of him (no pun intended) to get the cake as I have commented that I rarely get one anymore since my birthday and Thanksgiving are about the same time.
I am reminded of an e mail that I received recently about a Walmart cake. The person asked for the cake to read "Best Wishes, Suzanne" and underneath that "We will miss you ". Well, they did EXACTLY what they asked for!!! He he.

I love my new dinnerware

2007-11-26T07:59:00.000-05:00

I'm still dragging Christmas out of the attic. I seem to be a little behind in starting my decorating this year. I did find a great deal on this holiday dinnerware. I just put some of it out in my breakfast room. I found the little white bird salt and pepper shakers, stocking flatware holders and table runners at Target. I am one of those people that likes a table set all the time. I know, I know, Kenneth Brown on HGTV says you shouldn't do that but he doesn't live here so.........I'll do what I like!!!!

Bejeweled!

2007-11-25T07:33:00.000-05:00

Mornin' all. Thought I'd share a little project that I did last year. I took my Mom's and MIL's old rhinestone jewelry and made a wreath. I wasn't sure if I wanted to keep it this way, so I just T pinned the jewelry rather than remove the backs and hot glue it. If I had glued it, I could have used a lot of bits and pieces to fill in. I covered a straw wreath with ribbon and pinned them on. It takes quite a bit of jewelry. Ideally, I would love a two-toned look. Maybe with gold and red or silver and blue. I didn't have enough to do that so I just mixed it up.

What's your holiday style?

2007-11-24T08:20:00.000-05:00

Non-participant?

Electric? Christmas Vacation house

Country?

Year-rounder??? Lights ready all year long. Tee hee!

Traditional?

Bigger is better?? Lots of blow ups & such

Reason for the season?

Retro?

You can tell a lot about people by their outdoor decorations. I'm traditional/country. What's your style?????

A couple of gift ideas to make

2007-11-23T09:08:00.000-05:00

Every year, I try to come up with new little Christmas gift ideas for my niece and nephew and the neighbors. The niece and nephew get some small gifts to open and I always try to give them some money in a unique way. These are some candy cups that I made last year that had money hidden in one of the wrappers. The candy is taped to wooden skewers and inserted into floral foam.

The neighbors got some peppermint bark, a Christmas candle, towel, and doggie treats. Gotta take care of the dogs. My Bailey the beagle loves to give Mom's homemade treats. His favorite.

I'm currently working on the neighbor's gifts. I'll post as soon as I'm done with them. Haven't done the kid's yet.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T07:41:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Be safe and enjoy the day.

Edited-Greeting to you!