Welcome To Mimi's Garden

Missing You, My Darling Daughter-in-Law

2011-12-05T00:01:00.001-05:00

It seems impossible to believe it will be a year on December 23rd since you left us. You're missed each and every day, most especially by Jacob. Your baby Amelia couldn't be more precious. She's healthy, happy, beautiful, smart, stubborn, and independent! We all think of you many times a day as we do the things for Amelia that you should be doing. You would love her so very much and you would be so proud of Jacob and the wonderful, loving father he is. Some how I think you know that. Perhaps God allows those who arrive at Heaven's Gates too soon (for earthly standards) to watch with pleasure the lives they left behind.

We love you very much, Jenni, and await the day we all meet again.

Oh, Target, Why'd You Have To Go and Break My Heart???

2011-05-07T15:32:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted much since January, so I realize one of my first post returning to blogging really shouldn't be a rant. But ladies, I'm so mad at Target I could spit! From our local store here in Canton Michigan to Target National Headquarters Customer Service Department in Minneapolis Minnesota, I have NEVER, EVER been treated so rudely and coldly by ANY retail corporation before. Now, I know Target is almost sacred ground to those who frequent those local Target stores. I'm with ya. I've always loved Target and I have done much of my personal and gift shopping there for many years. I love moseying around the Dollar Spot, I love, love, love the children's and infants clothing and toys, I adore the Shabby Chic line, etc., etc., etc.. Target is one of my all time favorite stores. So...what's the problem?

By any chance, have you ever tried RETURNING anything to Target...without the sacred valid receipt???  No matter what the extenuating circumstances of the receipt less return, in the words of Mr. T, "I pity you"!

I totally understand that in our current economy no company can consider retail loss lightly. Every company has a right to protect it's interests, even an obligation to it's customers in order to keep pricing down. I get it.  Company policies are created to limit theft and protect against unwarranted returns which create financial loss. I get it and agree with it. The policy isn't really what I'm mad about. I'm mad because ANY corporation and ANY level employee can enforce policies with a bit of humanity and kindness.

Here's my story...
For Christmas my husband and I purchased my parents a sound board at Target. Both of them are in their 80's, almost deaf and blind. Their only real enjoyment is TV. They have a hunormous 58" flat screen which takes care of see the TV, but they still couldn't hear it (though anyone else is hemorrhaging from the ears if you watch TV with them!). Evidently, no one was able to make the sound board work with their TV so when we visited them last we brought it home with us to return. The very next morning my husband took it to our local Target for return. He had our receipt but admittedly the date for return had gone by. Naturally, his request for even store credit was denied - by the person behind the service desk and by the store manager.  When he returned home I decided to call the Target Headquarters in Minneapolis. I explained to the young male executive who had taken my call the circumstances of the purchase and the reasons why it had taken us longer than the time allowed in their policy to return the item. Now, most of you know what kind of a winter we've had in our family. Our daughter-in-law died having her and our son's first baby two days before Christmas. The days since have been such as sad tearful movies are made of. As I finished telling the guy the story, I was expecting a kind response, not necessarily a change in policy just for me.

What did I get???

"Ya, ya, I hear all kinds of sad stories. You still have to follow the rules."

So, not only do we have a sound board we don't want, but Target has the honor of being the very first and only person or corporation from around the world to respond to our family's tragedy with a heartless, cold, cruel response.

Congrats, Target Headquarters.

In Light of the Royal Wedding...

2011-04-28T21:17:00.002-04:00

A Joyous Easter To You!

2011-04-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

I love anything written by Max Lucado. The following excerpts are from Lucado's online daily devotional, relevant to the meaning of Easter. I love the bunnies and chicks and baskets that are part of the Easter/Spring celebration, but I cherish the true story of Easter.

I will be spending Easter with my husband, our daughter, and our two granddaughters at my parents home in Tennessee. My Easter will be blessed and I'm wishing each of you a wonderful and blessed Easter too!

March 21:
Never More Human
By Max Lucado

“He poured out His soul unto death.” Isaiah 53:12 NKJV
The scene is very simple; you’ll recognize it quickly. A grove of twisted olive trees. Ground cluttered with large rocks. A low stone fence. A dark, dark night . . .

See that solitary figure? . . . Flat on the ground. Face stained with dirt and tears. Fists pounding the hard earth . . .

That’s Jesus . . . God was never more human than at this hour. God was never nearer to us than when he hurt.

March 22:
He Planned It
By Max Lucado

“This man was handed over to you by God’s set purpose and foreknowledge.” Acts 2:23 NIV

Jesus planned his own sacrifice.
He intentionally planted the tree from which his cross would be carved.

He willingly placed the iron ore in the heart of earth from which the nails would be cast . . .

Christ was the one who set in motion the political machinery that would send Pilate to Jerusalem . . .

He didn’t have to do it—but he did.

March 27:
Three O’Clock
By Max Lucado

“At noon the whole country was covered with darkness, which lasted for three hours.” Matthew 27:45 TEV

Of course the sky is dark; people are killing the Light of the World . . .

The sky weeps. And a lamb bleats. Remember the time of the scream? “At about three o’clock Jesus cried out.” Three o’clock in the afternoon, the hour of the temple sacrifice. Less than a mile to the east, a finely clothed priest leads a lamb to the slaughter, unaware that his work is futile. Heaven is not looking at the lamb of man but at “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29, RSV).

March 28:
A Tree That Will Never Fall
By Max Lucado

“God is strong and can help you not to fall.” Jude 24

Can God really keep you from falling?

To answer that, go to a . . . tree on a barren hill. A tree older than time. A tree that covers the mistakes of your past and the problems of your future. Be assured—that tree will never fall.

March 29:
Such Love
By Max Lucado

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34, NIV

How Jesus, with a body wracked with pain, eyes blinded by his own blood, and lungs yearning for air, could speak on behalf of some heartless thugs is beyond my comprehension. Never, never have I seen such love. If ever a person deserved a shot at revenge, Jesus did. But he didn’t take it. Instead he died for them. How could he do it? I don’t know. But I do know that all of a sudden my wounds seem very painless. My grudges and hard feelings are suddenly childish.

March 31:
On Behalf Of Jesus
By Max Lucado

“This man has done nothing wrong.” Luke 23:41

Finally someone is defending Jesus. Peter fled. The disciples hid. The Jews accused. Pilate washed his hands. Many could have spoken on behalf of Jesus, but none did. Until now.

Kind words from the lips of a thief. He makes his request. “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42).

The Savior turns his heavy head toward the prodigal child and promises, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).

Happy Easter From Our Tiniest Bunny

2011-04-20T04:16:00.000-04:00

HAPPY EASTER FROM SOME-BUNNY SPECIAL!!!

This little bunny is Amelia, our newest granddaughter. Many of you have been praying for her and her daddy since Christmas 2010 when our son lost his beautiful 29 year old wife during the birth of their first child. Amelia is a tremendous blessing for all of us, especially her daddy. Life has settled down a bit, however we're still in that mode of not being able to believe all this has happened. It's been 4 months since Jen died and little Amelia entered our lives. Our son Jacob is flourishing in his role as a new father, though he grieves terribly for Jenni. But God is good and He has allowed all of to see that there is light and joy and life at the end of the tunnel. Little Amelia is the happiest and most contented baby I've ever seen...and of course her Mimi thinks she's just about the most beautiful too!

I hope to post more often again now - I've missed interaction with all of you. And I am so grateful for your love, prayers, and concern for our family. May each of you be blessed this Easter by the renewal of nature around us and the joy that only God can provide!

Fundraiser held at Plymouth restaurant to support widowed dad

2011-01-09T00:08:00.001-05:00

The benefit for our granddaughter Amelia tonight was wonderful. There are some very wonderful people in the world. WXYZ TV interviewed Jacob with Amelia this afternoon. If you'd like to see the interview click on the following link.

Fundraiser held at Plymouth restaurant to support widowed dad

"Thank you" isn't nearly enough for the many, many encouraging and compassionate notes and promises of prayer I've received from Blog Land. Each one of you is appreciated more than you will ever know. It's the love of so many and especially prayer, which is getting us through each day.

A News Article About My Granddaughter and Son

2011-01-07T02:13:00.004-05:00

I've heard from so many old blogging friends and also many new friends since this nightmare began in our family on December 22. The love, and concern, and compassion has meant so much to me. Thank you.

I thought some of you may be interested in reading an article in the Detroit Free Press about a memorial benefit being given this Saturday for Amelia.

If you'd like to read more about my precious new granddaughter and her daddy, my son Jacob,a blog has been created for that purpose:

Once again, thank you for being...well...you!

Update - Baby Amelia & Her Daddy

2011-01-02T23:05:00.007-05:00

So many have asked about Amelia and her daddy and how they can help. The overwhelming love, concern, compassion, and interest has been such a comfort to all of us.

A web page/blog has been created in Amelia's name to inform and direct those who have been asking how they can donate to the Amelia Bourque-Black Memorial Fund:
http://ameliarobinsue.blogspot.com/

*A PayPal button is available at the address above and on my upper right sidebar for online donation. When you click on the button, you will be taken to a page to specify the amount you would like to gift to Amelia. After typing in the amount, click on "update total." You will then be taken to a page to log into PayPal and complete the transaction. If you don't have a PayPal account, it is quick and easy to set one up at PayPal.com.

*A post office box address for mail or donations is:
Jacob Black
PO Box 87202
Canton, Michigan 48187
All checks should be written to the Amelia Bourque-Black Memorial Fund.

*Donations may be made directly at any PNC Bank branch to the Amelia Bourque-Black Memorial Fund.

*The wonderful folks at Plymouth Roc (formerly Boulders) in Plymouth, Michigan is hosting "It Takes A Village" fundraiser for our precious granddaughter Amelia. As most of you know, our son Jacob lost his beautiful wife Jenni two days before Christmas after the emergency delivery of their baby girl Amelia. The event will be this Saturday, January 8 from 8:00 p.m. to Sunday 2:00 a.m. Address: 1020 W. Ann Arbor Road, Plymouth, Michigan. If any of you happen to live near Plymouth Michigan please stop in to enjoy some good music, good food, and good company - all for a good cause.

Gosh, there are a lot of wonderful folks in the world! THANK YOU!!!

The Tiniest U of M Fan

2011-01-01T13:18:00.000-05:00

Miss Amelia will be watching the game(s) on her daddy's shoulder today!

Please Pray For Us During Our Family Tragedy

2010-12-29T17:03:00.003-05:00

Tragedy can strike any family at any given moment of any day. Our family was rocked with the most devastating, heart breaking, life changing tragedy possible last week. On December 21 our daughter-in-law Jenni and our son Jacob checked into the hospital for the delivery of their first child. As many of you know, Jacob and Jenni were married 18 months ago. On what should have been the most wonderful day of their young lives, our beautiful daughter-in-law died following the emergency birth of our precious granddaughter Amelia. Amelia was born mid morning on December 22 and her mother went home to her Heavenly Father very early on the morning of December 23. Words do not exist to describe the agony of the last week, especially for our son. He is broken hearted and we are for him. Please pray for Jacob as he raises his little girl. And please pray for my husband Sandy and I and our daughter and son-in-law as we help him. I will post again in the future with a web site being set up for Amelia. Thank you friends in advance, for your support, friendship, and prayer. Meanwhile, cherish your loved ones and love each other as if each moment were your last together.

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Psalms 147:3

Pink!

2010-07-23T00:58:00.000-04:00

A little pink from my garden...

Three sweet pink girls...

The cutest pink bug I've ever seen...

I want a pink house like this!!!

Beach beauties in pink and white...

This summers pink toes...

My two pink doll babies...

(check out Sydney's ocean theme dress)

A post card scene, pink tile roof, palm tree, and another feathered beauty...

A new pink town to explore - Pass-a-Grille Florida...

What could be better than a pink sunset???

The pink clouds after the sunset can hold their own...

A gorgeous, Royal Albert teapot clock from dear friends for our anniversary...

Finally, a 40th wedding anniversary gift from my sweetheart...rubies are kind of pink, don't you think?

Stop in to visit Beverly at How Sweet the Sound for lots of wonderful pink posts!

so sorry, no pink saturday for me today

2010-07-17T09:41:00.000-04:00

I'm sorry, I have had no access to my computer or photos all week. I'll have to post next week. Enjoy all the beautiful posts today!

Answered Prayer

2010-06-28T23:55:00.000-04:00

Thank you so much to all of you who prayed...we have a healthy baby! Thank God, there were no abnormalities at all found in the last test results. Yeah God!!!

Please Pray With Us...

2010-06-24T02:36:00.006-04:00

I would so appreciate it if those of you who believe as strongly as I do in the power of prayer would please pray for one of our grandchildren. Some tests have come back with a red flag. It seems there is the possibility of a life threatening health issue. More specific and more accurate tests have been completed and the results should be in by Monday. Please pray with us that the results will be completely normal - a healthy child. We have torn hearts, as we are supposed to go to Florida, in part to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary- which is June 27th. The kids do not want us to change our plans but we can't imagne not being home to support them while they're going through such a stressful time. So if you don't mind, add on a little prayer for us too as we travel and our family will not be together for a few weeks. I'll post next week as soon as I have the awaited test results. Thank you all so much for your faith and prayer.
xoxo

Suzanne's Friday Fives

2010-06-19T03:04:00.000-04:00

Suzanne, at Southern Inspiration, does a Friday Fives post each week. I almost always check out her questions for the week but I've never participated before - here goes...

1. Any special plans for Father's Day?
We're beginning our Father's Day celebration Saturday with our daughter and her family and our son and daughter-in-law at our community patriotic fair and fireworks. We'll sit on blankets and eat pizza and treats together, admire the newest ultrasound pics of our new grandbaby-to-be, take our precious little granddaughters on a few rides, and finish the evening with a fabulous fireworks display. Our daughter and son-in-law and their two little girls will come over on Sunday for a barbecue. Our son and daughter-in-law will be celebrating their very first wedding anniversary, so we will gladly excuse them from joining us.

2. Is your daddy still living?
My daddy is still living, though he is terminally ill. He is one of the most special men on the face of the earth!

3. Are you a grandparent yet?
We have two granddaughters - Sydney, who is 6, and Isabelle, who is 2. They are our daughter's children. Our son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first baby, due December 26.

4. How long have you been married?
We will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary on June 27.

5. What vocation did your DAD do?
My dad worked in the auto industry for many years. For the last 10 years or so of his working life he developed his own landscape business.

Happy Father's Day weekend!

My Completed Guest Room

2010-06-14T02:04:00.002-04:00

Our son Jacob moved out into his own house two years ago and he was married last June (and expecting a baby December 26!) Within a week I had his room painted and furniture ordered. I've posted before about the project. But I couldn't find a few things to finish the room, like a chandelier, some pictures, and a chair. It's taken me a while but I'm finally finished with the guest room. I may still tweak the drapes a little and make some lavender pillows for the bed but I'm happy with it the way it is. I took some of the pics with a flash and some without. I prefer the softness of the ones without the flash, but you can't see a lot of detail in the darker pics so I've included some of both.

Detroit Piston blue with black trim-HIDEOUS!!!

TA DA!!! The New Guest Room...

Be sure to stop by Susan's Between Naps On The Porch to find a list of participants for this week's Metamorphasis Monday!

Just 'Cause I Think It's Totally Cute

2010-06-08T16:21:00.001-04:00

We Just Got Our First Christmas Gift Of 2010...I'm A Happy Mimi!

2010-06-02T15:58:00.002-04:00

Our son Jacob and daughter-in-law Jenni, married last June, are giving us.....

A brand new grandbaby, due December 26, 2010!

Our cup runneth over!!!

A 2010 Wedding Season Opener

2010-05-25T00:40:00.007-04:00

Once again it seems the 2010 wedding season is upon us. My daughter sent me this cute YouTube video and I thought you might enjoy it as much as I did!

YouTube

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T00:01:00.027-04:00

Happy Mother's Day! I hope your day is filled with love and joy.

Real Mothers

Real Mothers don't eat quiche. They don't have time to make it.

Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.

Real Mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens - and happy kids.

Real Mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of carpets.

Real Mothers don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up.

Real Mothers sometime ask 'Why me?' They get their answer when a little voice says, 'Because I love you best.'

Real Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or years or grade...

It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother.

The Images of Mother

4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything!

8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot!

12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't really know quite everything.

14 YEARS OF AGE - Mom doesn't know anything.

16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's so old-fashioned.

18 YEARS OF AGE - That old woman? She's way out of date!

25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, Mom might know a little bit about it!

35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.....

45 YEARS OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?

65 YEARS OF AGE - Wish I could talk it over with Mom.

Pink Saturday - How Does One Lose a Table?

2010-05-07T22:00:00.006-04:00

"THINK PINK...A BETTER WAY OF LIVING"
--- Eloise

I bought these gorgeous pink metal chairs with mosaic seats and backs a couple of years ago at Marshall's. I also bought the matching table and it was a great bargain. $20.00 for each chair and for the table. They're a wonderful quality - I can hardly lift the chairs. Since we have cold, snowy winters I asked my husband to store the set in our basement until Spring. My son stopped by to carry them upstairs for me last week while my husband was out of town. He brought up both chairs but couldn't find the table. Anxious as I was to have them in place on my patio, I waited until my hubby got home to bring the table upstairs. No table. I've searched, he's searched, and our son has searched. HOW DOES ONE LOSE A TABLE??? It's probably 24 - 30 inches wide and it's hot pink just like the chairs. Go figure. I'm mad I can't show the whole set off today, but here are the gorgeous chairs. What's life without a little mystery...

This hand painted cement pot with matching heart was an early Mother's Day gift from my sweet sister-in-law. Loves it!

My Lupine has gone crazy...all in shades of pink, of course!

Sweet English Daisies...

I'm hoping for a successful try with this gorgeous pink Mandevilla...

HUGE hot pink Gerbera Daisies!

Dainty Perennial Geranium...

Potted pink Geraniums...always a favorite!

A pink glittered sea shell...can't wait for summer!

There are many beautiful posts to enjoy...find all the participants at How Sweet The Sound. Beverly is the hostess with the mostess!

Pink Saturday This & That

2010-04-23T19:00:00.003-04:00

Oh, Spring is finally here! My pink bleeding heart are just beautiful this year...LOVES IT!

My mother-in-law created some amazing crocheted pieces. She made this sweet pink baby blanket for our daughter Julie. I really should give it to Julie, especially now that she is the mother of two little girls, but it's PINK and it's DAISIES!

This Sun Bonnet Girl quilt was made by my maternal grandmother many years ago. It measures 60x76. My mother told me she remembered her mother making it when she was a girl still living at home. Even though it is probably 70 years old the quilt is in remarkably good condition. The background is white, aged in those lovely uneven shades of white we all love in antique/vintage linens. The sweet little sun bonnet girls are dressed in shades of pinks, greens, blues, and yellows. The strips between the blocks are pink.

I adore these gorgeous pillow cases as well, also made by my maternal grandmother. They are white cotton with hand crocheted flowers, leaves, and trim. The flowers are pink and yellow with green leaves and the scalloped edging along the opening is pink. The larger pink and yellow flowers appear to be roses and the smaller flowers are pink, trimmed in white. The basket itself is a delicate white crochet, edged in pink. I wish I had inherited my grandmother's needleworking skill - I'm still mastering plain old knitting!

For more Pink Saturday posts, visit Beverly at How Sweet The Sound.

Our Beautiful Earth!

2010-04-22T23:00:00.002-04:00

Our Beautiful Planet

courtesy of Wired Science

Earth - Blue Marble Globe

Atlas Earth

Ganges River Delta

Niger River

Andes

Himalayas

Jordan

Great Salt Desert

Lena Delta

Syrian Desert

Alluvial Fan

Yellowknife Wetlands

Some fun computer images from freakingnews.com-

Earth Dove

Whale Island

Mount Gollum

Dolphin Cove

Frozen Mountain

Old Man Waterfall

Mount Bald Eagle

One Solitary Life

2010-04-03T00:00:00.001-04:00

I'm wishing each of you a wonderful and blessed Easter!

One Solitary Life by James Francis, 1926

Easter Funnies

2010-04-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

Easter duck and Easter chick,

Easter eggs with chocolate thick,

Easter hats for one and all,

Easter bunny makes a call!

Happy Easter always brings

Such a lot of pleasant things!

What do you get if you pour hot water down a rabbit hole?

Hot cross bunnies!

Why does the Easter Bunny have a shiny nose?

Because the powder puff is on the other end!

How does the Easter Bunny travel?

By hare plane!

What did the rabbit say to the carrot?

It’s been nice gnawing you!

What did the rabbits do after their wedding?

Went on their bunnymoon!

Just Precious!

2010-03-28T22:00:00.002-04:00

Enjoy this precious video of two baby moose playing in a sprinkler with their mother watching over them. Have a beautiful new week everyone. Enjoy...

BEWARE OF IDENTITY THEFT THIS EASTER !!!

2010-03-24T11:22:00.003-04:00

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Gardens and Prayer In Need

2010-03-21T20:24:00.006-04:00

It's been far too long since I posted or visited any of you dear ladies in Blogland. Life has a way of getting in the way of frivolity on occasion, doesn't it? As much as I love blogging and bloggers, let's face it. In the big picture, it's frivolity. Wonderful frivolity, but frivolity! It seems like life has been filled with one crisis after another for the last couple of years. I've had to take a few unwanted breaks from blogging, which I regret. Spending time in the blogs of the many wonderful friends I've met in this techno world is a most pleasant time of escape!

My parents are in a real crisis, the simple result of the growing older. Many of you know that my precious father is in the end stage of pulmonary disease. He had another heart attack in January and there is in a battle going on between the frailness of body and the desires of a man 40 years younger. He wants to work hard and drive a car and do his own car and house repairs. He wants to carry the groceries in for my mother and take her dinner. None of that is possible now, as he is restricted to sitting in his chair with oxygen every waking hour. My mother is fairly healthy for a nearly 80 year old woman. However, heartbreaking sadness has struck again. She is rapidly going blind from macular degeneration. I am heartbroken because I strongly pushed her to have cataract surgery. I went to Tennessee a couple of weeks ago to take her and spent a week afterward. The cataract surgery has caused her slow moving dry type macular disease to change to a very rapid, much more serious form of wet macular degeneration. She will lose her vision rapidly. The only hope to slow the loss down is to begin a treatment of month injections in the eye. I am heartsick for my poor little mother and I am suffering with terrific guilt that I so strongly pushed her to have the cataract surgery. Of course I thought it would help her, since she is the only driver in the home when I can't be there. I mean, unfortunately I can't go down there just to pick up prescriptions or get groceries. But oh my gosh, what have I done.

My husband and I have been to my parents home 600 miles away four times since Christmas. We often have to plan these trips immediately after my infusion at the chemo clinic when, to be truthful, I feel as if I can barely take care of myself, not to speak of taking care of others! We leave again soon and will be making at least monthly trips to take care of everyday business as well as repairs and their medical visits. It is an incredible "job" to single handedly care for elderly, ill parents, as many of you already know. But they're incredible parents and it's an incredible heartbreak. So it's an incredibly easy choice to make. I am one of four children in my family and this job is mine alone it seems, for a variety of reasons, some absolutely valid, some not. I never forget the blessing of the husband I have, who willingly and joyously sacrifices and helps me to care for my parents and their home. We've talked many times about the loneliness and sadness of being alone in this journey and we can only come to the conclusion that we can only answer to God for ourselves and it is the right thing for us to do on so many levels. I cherish my parents and I will be inconsolable when either are gone, though I know they will be healthy again and joyous with God their Savior. That thought helps me to face these heart rendering trips to their home, when my mind expects to see two beautiful, energetic people waiting for us with the pool and the barbecue ready!

If you are a believer I would cherish your prayers for my parents and for me as we face these final days as a complete family on earth together. Since there's been a bit of storm in my life lately I enjoyed this little poem, oh so true! I hope you enjoy it too.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

It's about learning to dance in the rain.

How To Plant Your Garden

First, you Come to the garden alone,

while the dew is still on the roses....

FOR THE GARDEN OF YOUR DAILY LIVING...

PLANT THREE ROWS OF PEAS:

1. Peace of mind

2. Peace of heart

3. Peace of soul

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF SQUASH...

1. Squash gossip

2. Squash indifference

3. Squash grumbling

4. Squash selfishness

PLANT FOUR ROWS OF LETTUCE...

1. Lettuce be faithful

2. Lettuce be kind

3. Lettuce be patient

4. Lettuce really love one another

NO GARDEN IS WITHOUT TURNIPS...

1. Turnip for meetings

2. Turnip for service

3 Turnip to help one another

TO CONCLUDE OUR GARDEN WE MUST HAVE THYME:

1. Thyme for each other

2. Thyme for family

3. Thyme for friends

4 Thyme for prayer

WATER FREELY WITH PATIENCE AND CULTIVATE WITH LOVE. THERE IS MUCH FRUIT IN YOUR GARDEN...BECAUSE YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW.

Take Care of George!

2010-02-28T04:16:00.002-05:00

I thought these pictures were kind of cool. They were taken today from an upper floor of a hotel on Wikiki Beach. My nephew is working on a movie there starring George Clooney. I recieved several texts from him today - my nephew, not George! He and the crew were evacuated to upper levels and watched the changes in the ocean from the windows. Thank God the tsunami was far less serious that it could have been and those gorgeous treasures of beaches were not damaged and there were no injuries or loss of life or even business. George Clooney is one beautiful man so, though concerned about my sweet nephew as I was, I told him to make sure to take care of George at all cost...he's a national treasure!

This pictures shows the ocean as it was being drawn out to sea before the surge.

This picture shows the thankfully small surge of water right up to the hotel - not much beach left for a while today.

Finally, I just noticed that this if my 400th post! Time flies when you're having fun! Have a beautiful new week, Ladies!

CA NA DUH

2010-02-26T22:50:00.003-05:00

Now that Vancouver is hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, these are some questions people from all over the world are asking. Believe it or not these questions about Canada were posted on an International Tourism Website. Obviously the answers are a joke, but the questions were really asked!

Q: I have never seen it warm on Canadian TV, so how do the plants grow? (England)

A. We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around and watch them die.

Q: Will I be able to see Polar Bears in the streets?(USA)

A: Depends on how much you've been drinking.

Q: I want to walk from Vancouver to Toronto - can I follow the Railroad tracks? (Sweden)

A: Sure, it's only four thousand miles. Take lots of water.

Q: Is it safe to run around in the bushes in Canada ? (Sweden)

A: So it's true what they say about Swedes.

Q: Are there any ATM's (cash machines) in Canada ? Can you send me a list of them in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and Halifax? (England)

A: No, so you'd better bring a few extra furs for trading purposes.

Q: Can you give me some information about hippo racing in Canada? (USA)

A: A-fri-ca is the big triangle shaped continent south of Europe. Ca-na-da is that big country to your North...oh forget it. Sure, the hippo racing is every Tuesday night in Calgary. Come naked.

Q: Which direction is North in Canada ? (USA)

A: Face south and then turn 180 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we'll send the rest of the directions.

Q: Can I bring cutlery into Canada? (England)

A: Why? Just use your fingers like we do.

Q: Can you send me the Vienna Boys' Choir schedule? (USA)

A: Aus-tri-a is that quaint little country bordering Ger-man-y, which is...oh forget it. Sure, the Vienna Boys Choir plays every Tuesday night in Vancouver and in Calgary, straight after the hippo races. Come naked.

Q: Do you have perfume in Canada? (Germany)

A: No, WE don't stink.

Q: I have developed a new product that is the fountain of youth. Where can I sell it in Canada? (USA)

A: Anywhere significant numbers of Americans gather.

Q: Do you celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada? (USA)

A: Only at Thanksgiving.

Q: Are there supermarkets in Toronto and is milk available all year round? (Germany)

A: No, we are a peaceful civilization of Vegan hunter/gathers. Milk is illegal.

Q: I have a question about a famous animal in Canada , but I forget its name. It's a kind of big horse with horns. (USA)

A: It's called a Moose. They are tall and very violent, eating the brains of anyone walking close to them. You can scare them off by spraying yourself with human urine before you go out walking.

Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? (USA)

A: Yes, but you will have to learn it first.

A Valentine Weekend

2010-02-13T22:49:00.028-05:00

It's Silver Sunday and Mosaic Monday! I have some pics of the Valentine's dinner party/Bible study we had at our house Saturday night. My husband surprised me with the most gorgeous pink (my favorite) long stemmed roses as well as a magnificent pink and white rose centerpiece for our table. We had a wonderful evening with dear friends. I have begun using my silver regularly rather than saving it for "someday". It occurred to me one day, exactly WHAT am I saving it for? Who more special will I ever serve at my table than my husband and children and grandchildren? Each time I use my beautiful silver flatware memories flood my mind of happy newlywed days when I was so excited to be married and setting my own table with my own silver and candles daily! I leave you with some photos and mosaics of my Valentine's table and some other things from around my house - my mantle, family room coffee table, and living room hall and coffee tables.

Be sure to stop by Gypsy Fish to find the list of participants in Silver Sunday and Little Red House for participants in Mosaic Monday.

The china my husband and I received for our wedding has a silver pattern and rim...

These napkin rings are silver and pearl with some sparkle between the pearls...

I love the delicacy of this sugar shell...

The silver capped salt shaker is an antique, the pepper shaker is not. I like them mismatched!

Coconut cream and fudge pies were served on pink heart dessert plates and eaten with nothing other than silver dessert forks...

On the table in our family room, an antique silver tray compliments a large glass container with candle and Valentine ribbon...

A hammered aluminum chafing dish...

A vintage aluminum tray holds glasses, lemons, and sweetener for beverage - iced tea, of course...

An old silver pie server on scalloped milk glass dessert plates...

Our Valentine mantle...

Our sweet son dropped by today with these flowers for me...

The gorgeous roses from my husband...

And the centerpiece he surpised me with...

Candles and candy around the centerpiece, which sits on the cake plate matching the milk glass dessert plates...

The front entry table decorated for love...

The table scarf was hand crocheted by my grandmother...

Mosaic Monday

2010-02-08T02:13:00.001-05:00

I was reminiscing today about the lovely day in the Smokies my husband Sandy and I were able to sneak in when we were back in Tennessee last month. I think it is one of the most beautiful places on earth. What do you think?

Mary has a wonderful list of participants this week. Stop by Little Red House!

Silver Sunday: Week Four

2010-02-06T15:13:00.003-05:00

Silver Sunday has been such a fun blog event! Stop by Gypsy Fish to find many participants posting about their silver treasures!

One of my all time favorite gifts is the photo below in the gorgeous silver frame. My sister Karen gave this gift to me and an identical gift to our younger sister Kelly. I love the frame she chose. It's silver and bejeweled - an endearing favorite! But as much as I love silver, the photo is the real gift in this case. It was taken during the summer of 1982. The blond on the left is my mother, next is my sister Kelly, then my sister Karen, and I'm on the far right.

We had the loveliest 25th anniversary celebration in 1995. My husband's parents helped our children give us a surprise party at our favorite restaurant. They invited members of our wedding party and my parents came from Tennessee. We had such a great evening! There was a wedding cake made by the same bakery that made our wedding cake. Our kids had found our wedding album, guest book, and believe it or not, my wedding gown and veil. We got lots of wonderful gifts for our 25th but one of the most precious was this silver tray from our children. It's engraved in the middle with our names and the dates of our wedding and 25th anniversary.

This chest of silver flatware was our wedding silver. In 1970 many brides were still registering for silver. It's Rogers "Grand Heritage" and I still love the rose and scroll pattern. It seems like we registered for 12 place settings but we have 10. I think I'm going to start looking for the other 2 settings. I would also love to have the iced tea spoons. We also have about 10 serving spoons, forks, and knives.

Have a fabulous weekend everyone!

Silver Sunday: Week Three

2010-01-30T21:58:00.002-05:00

Be sure to stop by Gypsy Fish where you will find a list of participants for Silver Sunday!

Last week I showed you a small green Depression Glass caddy with a silver handle. This is a Depression Glass ice bucket with a silver handle. When I brought it home the handle was so tarnished I really thought it was brass underneath, but with a lot of polishing I discovered silver! The pattern doesn't match the smaller caddy but they certainly could be used together. I think I'm going to use both of these pieces for flowers.

I love this little glass pitcher. The base is silver. It too was extremely tarnished, but it cleaned up quickly with little effort. I think it would be so cute used for breakfast juice or milk for cereal.

This pinkish-lavender and silver glass tile vase sits in my guest room. It wasn't very expensive but I've always loved it. I bought it before I had a lavender room to put it in...some things are just meant to be!

I LOVE my Victorian style mirror! I've had it for years and it hangs in the hallways right outside our master bedroom. You can see the wreath on our bedroom door reflected in the mirror.

I have quite a collection of cake plates - and what goes better with cake plates than cake knives and servers! All are silver and the servers in the middle have embellished handles.

These two severs say "Merry Christmas"

I loved this silver and rhinestone bracelet as soon as I saw it in a little antique shop in upper Michigan.

This piece is getting old and looks warn for wear but it's priceless to me. After our rehearsal dinner nearly 40 years ago, my sweetheart drove me home and before I got out of the car to spend the last night in my parents home, Sandy presented me with a gift. This silver frame was inside. The left side is embellished with a silver bride and groom and the right side with wedding bells. Under the bells he had had our names and wedding date engraved. I loved it then and after all these years of marriage I treasure it. It has hung above my nightstand all these years. I have seen it there for so long I think I stopped seeing it. Tonight when I took it down and cleaned it up a bit I remembered that evening so long ago when a young man and woman sat in her parents driveway for a kiss goodnight, counting the minutes until she walked down the isle toward him and a brand new future together.

The Lost Generation, A Misnomer

2010-01-29T01:55:00.001-05:00

My sister-in-law recently forwarded this video to me and I thought it was worth watching. Some people say the younger generation is lost, but I happen to disagree. I think most young people are intelligent, informed, concerned and generally delightful! Enjoy a thoughtful presentation...

"Lost Genration" created for the AARP video contest

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-01-26T22:31:00.008-05:00

Join out hostess with the mostess, Susan, A Southern Daydreamer, to find many posts filled with outdoor beauty!

My husband and I spent most of the last couple of weeks in east Tennessee after my father had a heart attack. We spent every day for a week at the hospital - and you know how tiring and stressful that can be. When Dad came home we worked around the house for a couple of days and then the two of us spent a day in the mountains. My parents live just outside the Smoky Mountain National Park so it's stunningly beautiful all year round. The mountains in winter look completely different than in warm months. I miss being able to hop in the car and drive a mere minutes to be be in the middle of complete beauty. Michigan has it's own claims to fame, but we don't have mountains! I snapped some pictures as we drove and went to a few of our favorite places in the park.

Tennessee has actually had winter this year and more than the usual few weeks. The water that streams out of the rocks continuously froze, creating strange looking shapes - natural works of art!

The streams ran over the rocks rigorously after months of rain and snow.

One of my favorite views is in Cades Cove. It is the place of the first non Indian settlers in the Smoky Mountains. In fact, the first was my great-great-great-great grandfather, John Oliver. If you visit the Smoky Mountains in east Tennessee be sure to go to Cades Cove and drive "The Loop" to see the original homes of the first settlers. It's interesting to see how incredibly innovative these strong people were and the beauty is incomparable.

The deer are plentiful in the Cove and because hunting is against the law, those gorgeous, graceful creatures come very close.

John Oliver certainly knew how to pick a gorgeous spot to homestead. What a front porch view!

John Oliver II was a minister at the Primitive Baptist Church. The church and graveyard are beautiful.

After several hours of satisfying my "mountain fix" it was time go go back to Mom and Dad's.

I adore the beach, but these mountains are the place of my childhood and I NEED to be surrounded by them from time to time. Cades Cove in particular, brings a sense of peace and familiarity. When I was a child we spent Sunday afternoons picnicking in the mountains, jumping from rock to rock in the cold streams. On Memorial Day, or Flag Day as we called it, we picnicked on the Primitive Baptist Church grounds, afterward we cleaned the grave sites and placed flowers on the graves of our ancestors. I have wonderful memories of the mountains and they still bring a spirit of peace to my soul like no other place can.

Now...I just have to mention one of my very favorite blogs, Miss Gracie's House and suggest that you stop by for some serious inspiration! Rene and her husband purchased a 100 year old farmhouse and are in the process of making it a beautiful home. To entice you further, Rene has recently published her 300th post and she is having a give-a-way to celebrate. Stop by Miss Gracie's soon!

Yippee! I'm Home For Silver Sunday and Mosaic Monday!

2010-01-23T23:38:00.008-05:00

I've just come home from spending a week unexpectedly with my parents. My father had a heart attack last Wednesday. My husband and I drove to Tennessee to be with my mother and spend time with my dad in the hospital. Thankfully, I was able to bring him home a few days ago. He's got a long road ahead of him recovering and regaining strength, but we're all thankful that he's alive and home.

Sunday Silver

I've had this little glass box with silver lid for years...I keep tiny sea shells inside to remind myself that summer WILL come again!

A sweet little mismatched salt and pepper with silver trimmed caps...

I love this shabby-ish divided plate with silver embellishment...

My daughter and son-in-law gave this silver heart to me the first Christmas I was a grandmother. It hangs on a pretty silver stand and the large heart opens in the center to see a photo of my first granddaughter. The tiny silver heart is engraved with the year on one side and my granddaughters name on the other.

I love these silver hearts! I found them at a shop in our little town. My son thought they were pretty enough to buy one for his bride on their first married Sweetest Day.

My sister-in-law, Jeri, gave me this silver necklace for Christmas this year. I love the sparkling charm too!

This candy dish is a soft, buffed silver...

During one of the most stressful days at the hospital with my father, my sweet husband took me out for a ride. He knows how much I love antiquing so he stopped at a couple of shops close to the hospital. I had been looking for a silver sugar scuttle/cellar for months and was tickled pink to find this one! It has a gorgeous rose pattern and the little scoop sits in it's own little slot at the base of the scuttle.

Some other Tennessee finds...

A green Depression Glass caddy with silver handle...

A cut glass shaker with silver cap...

I already had this shaker with silver lid at home...don't you just love mismatched pairs???

Silver salad servers...

This lamp with a silver base sits on my desk.

Visit Gypsy Fish on Sunday for lots of gorgeous silver posts!

Mosaic Monday

Visit Little Red House on Monday to see some incredible mosaics.

Just Cool...

2010-01-13T01:13:00.002-05:00

Her Morning Elegance by Oren Lavie

Silver Sunday: Week Two & Mosaic Monday

2010-01-09T23:46:00.193-05:00

I haven't participated in Monday Mosaic for a while but I played around with my silver pics and decided to join the MM girls again this week. Visit Little Red House for a list of participants.

Visit Gypsy Fish for a list of participants and some gorgeous silver posts!

I bought this set of eight pie/dessert forks last weekend at my favorite antique mall. No manufacturer name imprinted. Can't wait to use them at our Valentine's dinner party!

Spreaders/butter knives galore! Left to right: William A. Rogers; Oneida Community; Thos. Gillean London; William A. Rogers; Freeman & Son. I believe they are all silver plate.

I love these odd serving pieces. Of course the forks are for serving meat. Fork on the left is William A. Rogers, the one on the right is Lady Doris Silver Plate. The flat pierced spoon is a Rogers tomato server - love it. See the design closer below. The small three tined fork is an olive server-William A. Rogers. All of these pieces are silver plate.

A mix of silver plate serving spoons. Left to right: Tudor Silver Plate; Wm. Rogers Silver Plate; Lady Doris Silver Plate; Old Company Plate; Lady Doris Silver Plate; Lady Doris Silver Plate; William A. Rogers A1 Plus. My favorite is the large spoon, third from the right.

These spoons are small silver plate serving pieces. From left to right: Florentine Silver Plate iced tea spoon; three sugar spoons(?) Holmes and Edwards, Crusader, Crusader (anyone know about these odd shaped spoons?); William A. Rogers sugar shell, two orange/citrus spoons-on the first I can only make out England and the second only has Silver Plate imprinted; finally a tiny condiment spoon. I can find no markings. Take a closer look at the rose carving on the handle below.

Silver plate ladles...the one on the left is Rogers; the one on the right is Rogers Brothers.

The serving fork is marked solid nickel silver and the sugar shell is marked solid Peru silver. The knife is a cheese server. Note the curved and pointed blade. The cheese was sliced and then the point used to pierce the cheese as it was served. There are no markings but I think it's silver plate.

Precious baby silver...

The cup on the left is silver plate, not old, but sweet. It actually came from Hallmark about 6 years ago. See the cute little bear on the handle below? The center cup is old and it is sterling. I don't know much about the markings but you can see it below - anyone know anything about it? I bought it at a local antique store about ten years ago along with that sweet, sweet heart shaped rattle. Try as I might, I cannot see the tiny markings on the rattle! The cup on the right is silver plate and was my daughters. The curved handle training spoon is silver plate, Wm. Rogers - just picked it up at an antique mall last week along with the adorable toddler spoon and fork, Wm. Rogers & Sons. All three pieces are silver plate. Look at the beautiful rose pattern on the toddler set. Oh, I do love baby silver!

Finally, two great give aways to tell you about! You must stop by Gypsy Brocante! What a great blog and so many beautiful things to see! And do not miss out on the adorable Orphaned Decor! This blog is filled with gorgeous vintage pink among so much more..

Have a beautiful new week, ladies!

Vintage Pink

2010-01-08T15:08:00.001-05:00

It's Pink Saturday!

Visit Beverly, How Sweet The Sound, for a list of participants with lots of beautiful pink things to see.

Vintage cane chair with pink roses on the seat...

Mayfair pink Open Rose pattern Depression Glass biscuit jar...

I tried to get a close pic of the pattern on the jar but it's still difficult to see.

Mayfair pink Open Rose pattern Depression Glass sugar bowl...

Jeannette Pink Depression Glass, Holiday pattern, creamer and open sugar bowl...

...and matching plate.

I'm not sure what the purpose of this little plate was, but I love it. The back identifies it as being made by CHASE, hand painted in Japan...

This 10" plate was obviously hand painted but bears no identifying marks...

This 6" plate was made in Austria...

I have no info about this vase at all. It belonged to my mother-in-law and after her death my father-in-law gave it to me for Mother's Day - I cherish it...

Fenton Magnolia pattern pink hobnail 11 inch vase...

My grandmother's handmade 1930's Sunbonnet Quilt ...

My grandmother's handmade rose crocheted pillow cases...

Pink floral vintage pearls...

Just a little Spring tease...can't wait for pink Bleeding Heart!!!

A Must Visit Blog & Artist - Tiffany Miller

2010-01-05T00:01:00.004-05:00

I recently added two new buttons to my blog - you'll find them both in my upper left sidebar. Wait until you have a little bit of time to devote to the eye popping eye candy you'll find, then jump right over to Tiffany Miller Mosaics! Prepare to drool. Tiffany Miller is an incredible talent in Burbank California. I've always loved mosaic work, but until I met Tiffany I'd never really seen mosaic art! She's been featured on HGTV and DIY and she's a master at her craft.

How do I know Tiffany Miller? She happens to be my nephew Tracy's fiance. Tracy has always been special to me as an auntie, but I would love Tiffany if I'd never met Tracy. My darling nephew Tracy is a rising Hollywood film artist in directing, writing, and cinematography. His name rolls in the credits of movies like King of California, About Schmidt, and Sideways. Can you tell I'm proud? And he has great taste in fiances! In spite of the fact that she's worked with and created art for many Hollywood celebs, Tiffany's a down-to-earth, all-American girl next door, kind of girl. Just a few of the beautiful and famous Tiffany has designed for are Ryan Seacrest, Sharon Osborn, and Leeza Gibbons.

I happen to be the proud owner of two of Tiffany's pieces - woo hoo! Every December 26th my entire family travels from all over the country to have our family Christmas together at my parents mountain home. Last Christmas Tiffany gave my husband and I an original mosaic frame. This Christmas we received one of her posters - Seascape. Wow! We love it! One of these days I'm going to hop on a plane and visit Tracy and Tiff in Burbank to see the original! Sandy and I spent about half an hour on December 26th after we got back to our hotel just looking at Seascape.

The detail is incredible - remember, this isn't paint - it's tiny pieces of marble, tile, and glass. Tiffany and Tracy know how much Sandy and I love the ocean. Love this gift! Can't wait to get it framed and on the wall.

Each member of the family received one of Tiffany's posters from an original piece. I love, love, love them all. Tiffany's online shop is filled with many, many, many gorgeous works of art for sale - some for a little money and some for a whole lot of money! Whether you want to purchase anything or not you will enjoy browsing the shop. Tiffany's blog will take you on a cyber trip through some of her shows and current projects. Don't miss the gallery! Check out the amazing architectural pieces - especially the massive church baptismal - incredible!

Well I've bragged enough about these two talented members of my family, so I will leave you with a cute New Year's greeting I received from a friend last week. It reiterates my sentiments exactly for all of you!

My Wish for You in 2010...
May peace break into your home and may thieves steal your debts.
May the pockets of your jeans become magnets for $100 bills.
May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips!
May happiness slap you across the face and may all your tears be those of joy.
May the problems you had in 2009 forget your home address in 2010!
In simple words ............
May 2010 be the best year of your life!!!

Silver Sunday: Week One

2010-01-03T21:38:00.005-05:00

Gypsy Fish is hosting Silver Sunday Blog Party! Stop by to see the list of participants on her right side bar.

Baby Silver

Candlestick from my daughters wedding

Antique silver spoons with polished stones wired into the handles

Matching hor dourve forks...or maybe butter picks???

A set of six tea spoons from Mackinac Island, Michigan

The Covenant

2010-01-02T18:50:00.011-05:00

Last week I posted that I was planning to read the Bible in 90 days. I had randomly come across this challenge online and it sounded great to me. So far, so good! I realize it's only been three days, but I've gotten myself settled in with my beloved copy of The Message every day and read the assigned chapters and verses. It doesn't seem like it should be on the surface, but not missing a day will be the major challenge. To miss a day is to increase the reading assignment to thirty some chapters the next day. In order to glean the most I can from this experience I don't think that's a good idea! I think my mind would start wondering after the first twenty or so chapters! For today's Spiritual Sunday post I'd like to share some thoughts with you from my first few days of reading. If you would like to join the challenge it's not too late - you can catch up! Follow the link above or on my right side bar to read about the origin of the challenge. If you would like to have a discussion about some the the text we are reading, I plan to write something about my week's reading every Sunday. I would love to have you join me!

Is there anyone who doesn't get just a little excited when they see a rainbow? When I see a rainbow I always say a quick prayer of thanks for the promise it represents. But while reading Genesis 8, I thought about how lightly we take promises. We live in a world where commitments are infrequently long term. Guarantees are no longer an assurance of anything. The promises of marriage are considered with less permanence and commitment than ever before. The rainbow is God's promise, not to Noah, but a covenant between God and the entire human race. More than that, Genesis 8:21 seems to show more of a reaffirmation in God's own heart of His original purpose for creating the human race. I've always thought of the rainbow as a reminder to us. Actually, Genesis 9:13-15 states that it's purpose is for God to be reminded of His purpose each time He sees the beauty of the rainbow. "I set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth. And it shall come about, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shalt be seen in the cloud and I will remember My covenant, which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and never again shall the water become a flood to destroy all flesh." (Genesis 9:13-15).

God knew then and still now, that the heart of a human being is not pure and yet He loves us anyway. The Noahic Covenant was a permanent, lasting, universal promise which encompassed "all living creations", human and animal, for "all generations". God's covenant was unconditional. It didn't matter then and it doesn't matter now what we do or how much evil is created on earth, God's Word is a permanent, lasting, forever covenant. Isaiah 54:9-10 reminds us that His love will never be removed from us. "For this is like the days of Noah to Me; when I swore that the waters of Noah should not flood the earth again, so I have sworn that I will not be angry with you, nor will I rebuke you. For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, but My loving kindness will not be removed from you, and My covenant of peace will not be shaken,’ says the Lord who has compassion on you.”

Here's an incredible thought: Every single time you admire the magnificence of a rainbow, GOD HIMSELF IS ADMIRING THE VERY SAME RAINBOW AT THE VERY SAME TIME YOU ARE! And He is thinking about His enduring, forever love for me and for you! WOW!

What is a rainbow? It is simply the reflection of the suns rays on particles of moisture. We see this gift when the sun shines during a rain. Small in the realm of science, yet so huge in our security of God's vast love for us. "And the Lord smelled the soothing aroma; and the Lord said to Himself, ‘I will never again curse the ground on account of man, for the intent of man’s heart is evil from his youth; and I will never again destroy every living things as I have done’." (Genesis 8:21)

It's true that human word is fairly meaningless. How comforting it is to know that God's word, His covenant, His faithfulness, is our security!

A Year In Review At Mimi's Garden

2010-01-01T00:00:00.002-05:00

Gosh, can you believe we are about to enter 2010? Being born in 1952, I can remember when the year 2000 was anticipated as science fiction! Would any of us have believed back then that we would ever own multiple televisions of every size or computers controlling just about everything we use in day to day life? We couldn't imagine wireless phones let alone the Internet available on everything from phones to refrigerator doors! The amazing evolution of technology has changed our lives as a civilization. Incredible products have provided us with much fun and ease in our day to day lives. Medical technology has advanced so rapidly that many conditions formerly a death sentence are now commonly cured, daily discoveries bring new hope and freedom. The world has changed significantly since my birth and in the first decade of this century, but have we changed so much as people and families? I don't think so. All over the world mothers love their children and pray for wars to end. Parents struggle to raise children to be productive citizens and just decent human beings. We have all become more creative in how to stretch our incomes in this economic sag we find ourselves in. It doesn't take much traveling to see that people all over our country and the world are alike in all the ways that matter. We all fear loss and failure and we all hang on to similar hopes and dreams for a future of success and happiness for ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors.

I am praying that 2010 will be a year with more peace in the world and renewed hope for our country. May each of you be blessed with health, happiness, and peace!

Cindy, My Romantic Home, hosted a year in review party, but I'm little late for it. She also hosts Show & Tell Friday so I'll combine the two. I decided to share some photos from life in my home and blog during 2009 anyway.

January 2009 brought lots of snow at my house...

...and on my blog, pics of linens hand crafted by my grandmother.

February brought a Valentine's Day dinner party to my home...

...and a tutorial for invitation making on my blog.

Spring bunnies visited my home in March...

...and I shared memories of my daughter-in-law's bridal shower on my blog.

We celebrated Easter Sunday at our home in April...

...and I shared pics of a Spring Florida beach trip on my blog.

May found me celebrating at home on Mother's Day with our daughter and granddaughters...

...and a seaside tablescape on my blog.

My home was filled with peonies in June...

...and I shared photos of our sons wedding on my blog.

I had fun celebrating my granddaughter's 2nd birthday in July...

...and I shared pics from a Florida beach trip with my husband on my blog.

In August I wrote a story for our granddaughter to tell her about a trip Hubby and I were taking her on...

...and I showed you some pictures of a visit to my parents home in Tennessee on my blog.

In September, I hung my Autumn wreath on our front door...

...and I shared the pics on my blog of that pre kindergarten trip with our granddaughter.

October brought more Fall decorations to my home...

...and Halloween pictures to my blog.

Christmas decorations filled my home in November...

...and a pic of my grand dog's visit to Santa on my blog.

More Christmas decorating in December...

...and pictures of a visit to Fair Lane Manor for my blog.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!

Bring In The New Year With Some Tasty Appetizers

2009-12-30T00:00:00.013-05:00

Party Slush
4 tea bags
2 cups boiling water
7 cups cold water
2 cups sugar
12 ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate
12 ounce frozen limeade concentrate
(1 pint whiskey, optional)
2, 2 liter bottles chilled lemon lime soda

Place 4 tea bags in 2 cups boiling water; allow to steep 10-15 minutes. Mix together 7 cups water and 2 cups sugar, bring to boil. until sugar is dissolved. Add one 12 ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate and one 12 ounce frozen limeade. Add steeped tea. Cool. At this point the original recipe invites you to add a little less than 1 pint of whiskey if desired; Freeze the entire mixture - washed plastic milk gallons work well. When serving, allow punch to partially thaw at room temperature for 25 or 30 minutes, then spoon into glasses or punch bowl. Pour equal amounts of 7 Up over frozen mixture.

(I'm not a drinker so my personal favorite is without the whiskey and I think you'll like this unique punch without!)

Mini Party Quiches

Crust:
1 stick butter
3 ounces cream cheese
1 cup flour

Mix all together well and press into bottom and sides of mini muffin tins.

Custard Filling:
4 eggs
1 tablespoon flour
1 ½ cup cups half & half
¼ teaspoon salt
pepper to taste
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
2 teaspoons melted butter
2 tablespoons diced onions
½ pound bacon, fried crisp & broken (if desired)
1-2 cups Swiss cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Break eggs in bowl with wire whisk. Stir in next 6 ingredients. Layer each prepared, unbaked, pastry shell with bacon first, then cheese, then onion. Spoon custard filling over these ingredients in each shell until 2/3 full. Bake at 375 degree oven until slightly puffed and custard is set, about 35 minutes.

Warm Artichoke Dip

1 can Progresso Artichokes, drained and chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients well with fork in small baking dish. Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve with thin, toasted French or Italian bread slices or crackers.

Party Meatballs

3 pounds lean ground sirloin
¼ cup chopped, cooked onions
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup uncooked, quick oats
3 eggs
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano
1 tablespoon chopped dry parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh
1 teaspoon pepper
16 ounce jar grape jelly
12 ounce bottle Heinz Chili Sauce

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix everything but the jelly and chili sauce together in a large bowl with a wooden spoon or with your hands. Cook the meatballs in a very small amount of oil in a skillet on top of the stove, then put them in a large roaster to bake at 400 degrees until the meat is cooked throughout and the meatballs hold their shape, about 30-45 minutes. Stir the jelly and chili sauce together and heat in the microwave for several minutes. Pour the sauce over the meatballs. Continue baking the meatballs until the sauce looks thickened and coats the meatballs, about another thirty minutes. Gently stir the meatballs occasionally during cooking time to coat them evenly with sauce.

Happy New Year!

May 2010 be a year filled with blessings and joy for you and yours.

It's A New Year Challenge!

2009-12-27T12:00:00.013-05:00

Recently I came across a website promoting a challenge to read the Bible in 90 days. I've never read the Bible throughout but I've always wanted to. I've started before, but I let life get in the way of sticking with it. My dad has been such an inspiration to me. He's very ill and is totally blind in one eye, yet he read the Bible in it's entirety last year at 82. Not just once, but almost twice. He kind of put me to shame! So I've decided to take the 90 day challenge beginning January 1. The official dates for the challenge are January 1 - March 31. If any of you are interested, there is a down-loadable schedule available here. It's suggested that you will need to commit 45-75 minutes daily to complete the challenge. It's definitely a commitment...but then I'm pretty sure I waste an hour a day doing something, so I think I can put that wasted hour to good use for 90 days! I'm going for it! I would love to know if any of you decide to join me.

Find lots of inspirational posts to enjoy at Spiritual Sundays.

I hope you all had a FABULOUS Christmas and are enjoying a little much needed down time. Wishing you all a safe and joyous New Year!

God Came Near...Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T18:00:00.009-05:00

Do You See Him?
by Max Lucado

IT’S CHRISTMAS NIGHT. THE HOUSE IS QUIET. Even the crackle is gone from the fireplace. The last of the carolers appeared on the ten o’clock news. The last of the apple pie was eaten by my brother-in-law. And the last of the Christmas albums have been stored away having dutifully performed their annual rendition of chestnuts, white Christmases, and red-nosed reindeers.
It’s Christmas night.

The midnight hour has chimed and I should be asleep, but I’m awake. I’m kept awake by one stunning thought. The world was different this week. It was temporarily transformed.
The magical dust of Christmas glittered on the cheeks of humanity ever so briefly, reminding us of what is worth having and what we were intended to be. We forgot our compulsion with winning, wooing, and warring. We put away our ladders and ledgers, we hung up our stopwatches and weapons. We stepped off our race tracks and roller coasters and looked outward toward the star of Bethlehem.
It’s the season to be jolly because, more than at any other time, we think of him. More than in any other season, his name is on our lips.

And the result?

For a few precious hours, he is beheld. Christ the Lord. Those who pass the year without seeing him, suddenly see him. People who have been accustomed to using his name in vain, pause to use it in praise. Eyes, now free of the blinders of self, marvel at his majesty.
All of a sudden he’s everywhere.

In the grin of the policeman as he drives the paddy wagon full of presents to the orphanage.
In the twinkle in the eyes of the Taiwanese waiter as he tells of his upcoming Christmas trip to see his children.
In the emotion of the father who is too thankful to finish the dinner table prayer.
He’s in the tears of the mother as she welcomes home her son from overseas.
He’s in the heart of the man who spent Christmas morning on skid row giving away cold baloney sandwiches and warm wishes.
And he’s in the solemn silence of the crowd of shopping mall shoppers as the elementary school chorus sings “Away in a Manger.”
Emmanuel. He is with us. God came near.
It’s Christmas night. In a few hours the cleanup will begin—lights will come down, trees will be thrown out. Size 36 will be exchanged for size 40, eggnog will be on sale for half price. Soon life will be normal again. December’s generosity will become January’s payments and the magic will begin to fade.

But for the moment, the magic is still in the air. Maybe that’s why I’m still awake. I want to savor the spirit just a bit more. I want to pray that those who beheld him today will look for him next August. And I can’t help but linger on one fanciful thought: If he can do so much with such timid prayers lamely offered in December, how much more could he do if we thought of him every day?

The Arrival...Merry Christmas Eve!

2009-12-24T00:00:00.006-05:00

The Arrival - by Max Lucado

God had entered the world as a baby.

Yet, were someone to chance upon the sheep stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem that morning, what a peculiar scene they would behold.

The stable stinks like all stables do. The stench of urine, dung, and sheep reeks pungently in the air. The ground is hard, the hay scarce. Cobwebs cling to the ceiling and a mouse scurries across the dirt floor.

A more lowly place of birth could not exist.

Off to one side sit a group of shepherds. They sit silently on the floor; perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him—so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds. Near the young mother sits the weary father. If anyone is dozing, he is. He can’t remember the last time he sat down. And now that the excitement has subsided a bit, now that Mary and the baby are comfortable, he leans against the wall of the stable and feels his eyes grow heavy. He still hasn’t figured it all out. The mystery of the event puzzles him. But he hasn’t the energy to wrestle with the questions. What’s important is that the baby is fine and that Mary is safe. As sleep comes he remembers the name the angel told him to use … Jesus. “We will call him Jesus.”

Wide awake is Mary. My, how young she looks! Her head rests on the soft leather of Joseph’s saddle. The pain has been eclipsed by wonder. She looks into the face of the baby. Her son. Her Lord. His Majesty. At this point in history, the human being who best understands who God is and what he is doing is a teenage girl in a smelly stable. She can’t take her eyes off him. Somehow Mary knows she is holding God. So this is he. She remembers the words of the angel. “His kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:33)

He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.

Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.

She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey!

This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.

Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he had just sent God into the cold. And the people would scoff at anyone who told them the Messiah lay in the arms of a teenager on the outskirts of their village. They were all too busy to consider the possibility.

Those who missed His Majesty’s arrival that night missed it not because of evil acts or malice; no, they missed it because they simply weren’t looking.

Little has changed in the last two thousand years, has it?

Breath of Heaven - Jessica Simpson

Trans Siberian Rocks and A Holiday Recipe!

2009-12-23T00:00:00.003-05:00

My mother has made these bar cookies/candy for years at Christmas. It's a real family favorite. I can almost guarantee that your family will love them! Enjoy!

Chocolate Scotch-A-Roo’s

1 cup sugar
1 cup light corn syrup

1 cup peanut better

6 cups Rice Krispies

12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

12 ounces butterscotch morsels

Cook sugar and syrup until bubbling. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter; mix until smooth, being careful since this mixture is very hot. Stir in Rice Krispies. Pat into buttered 9x13 inch pan. In glass measuring cup, melt together the chocolate and butterscotch chips. Pour over cereal mixture. Cool and cut into bars.

The last Scotch-A-Roo is sure to cause a squabble!

Christmas Canon Rock - Trans Siberian Orchestra

Dining With The Ford's

2009-12-21T23:00:00.008-05:00

Every year my husband Sandy and I try to do a couple of special things during the holidays. We always enjoy an outing with couples and my sister-in-law and best friend, Jeri, always do something just the two of us in December to celebrate our long friendship. Last year Jeri and I went to a Christmas tea at a beautiful little tea room in our town. And Sandy and I saw a live performance of White Christmas at the historic Fox Theater in Detroit with our Bible study group - wonderful. Hubby and I also went to Greenfield Village in Dearborn with another couple for the fabulous Holiday Lights event. It was minus 21 degrees! Greenfield Village is on the Henry Ford grounds and is a community of beautiful historic homes, each street is a different decade. The homes were decorated for Christmas in typical style of the period. In spite of the bitter cold it was a fabulous evening. This year there didn't seem to be a lot of stuff offered in the Detroit area. I think the economy is so bad in this part of Michigan due to the tremendous auto industry layoffs that some of the theater companies didn't come here. I'm usually the one to plan outings for our social group and I was beginning to think that we were going to be out luck this year. I looked for a long time for two different December events. Finally, BINGO! We ended up attending three holiday events in December, all on the Henry Ford estate. On December 4 we took our grandchildren to Santa's Cottage on the grounds. It was just a precious little place and we had a wonderful evening. The staff provided five or six craft stations for the children and the last stop was a lantern lit walk to Santa's Cottage. On December 11, my sister-in-law and I went to the Holiday Concert Luncheon at Fair Lane Manor on the Henry Ford estate. We had such a wonderful time together, as we always do. We ate a wonderful lunch of sea scallops in the music room, followed by a performance of Christmas music. Afterward, we were invited to wonder around the main level of the mansion. I couldn't believe that I forgot my camera! No fear, because on December 17 my husband and I went to the Candle Lit Christmas Dinner and Walk with some dear friends, again at the Henry Ford Estate, Fair Lane Manor. It was absolutely incredible! The turkey dinner was scrumptious, the staff was lovely, and the tour of the mansion was just too wonderful. I wish you could all have been there - especially you, CeeKay! After dinner we were led by a guide throughout all three levels of the mansion by candle light. I could seriously get used to living like the Henry Ford's! I want to show you some pictures from the evening and also of that sweet Santa's Cottage.

The Henry Ford Estate, Fair Lane Manor - Dearborn, Michigan, built 1914

(even at that time the cost was nearly 2 million)

The magnificent entry and staircase...

The library...

When we first arrived on Thursday evening with our friends we were invited to sit and chat in the library until our table was ready for our seating. We so enjoyed the beautiful room and the amazing historical photos of the Fords with interesting and impressive people like Charles Lindbergh.

Look at that ceiling!

A beautifully decorated fireplace in the Ford family swimming pool room where dinner was served.

Our dear friends Terry and Pam are on the left; my husband Sandy and I are on the right.

The Silver Strings Dulcimer Society (in historic attire) provided fabulous dining music.

The beautiful ceiling in the pool room...

The rustic family room where Henry Ford and other innovative thinkers like Harvey Firestone put their heads together to create some impressive business deals. The room was also used by the Ford grandchildren for play. Henry Ford was committed to utilizing and protecting nature. This room was the only room in the house with this rustic style.

This was actually a spring water well in the family room.

Edsel Ford was Henry and Clara Ford's only child. This was his bedroom. Edsel married a member of the Hudson family and she very much wanted to live in an area that she considered a more socially impressive area of Michigan. Clara Ford so wanted her son and his bride to live at Fair Lane that she talked her husband into building a bowling alley, a billiards room and a swimming pool in the mansion to tempt Edsel. Henry indulged his wife, but Edsel never lived at Fair Lane again after his marriage.

Henry Ford's private bedroom...

I included this photo of the bathroom in Henry's bedroom because I wanted to show you the four faucets, two are on the sink and two are above the sink on the wall. Clara Ford believed the hard well water was too harsh on a lady's skin so she had her husband install hot and cold faucets for the regular hard well water and hot and cold faucets for softened water in every bathroom in the house. He also installed pressurized air outlets in every bathroom wall so the ladies could dry their hair, as well as a central vacuuming system. Henry Ford was ahead of his time for 1914.

Henry and Clara Ford's master bedroom...spectacular!

The sleeping porch just off the master bedroom, where Henry and Clara slept in the summer.

The chandelier hanging over the master staircase is 300 years old...

Isn't this wreath beautiful against the huge leaded glass windows on the landing of the staircase? It was on this landing that Clara Ford told her husband that if he did not negotiate with the new union she would pack up and leave and he would never see her again! As we know, Henry followed his wife's suggestion.

The dining room...

The music room...this is where Jeri and I lunched.

The formal living room...

Mr. Ford spared no cost when building Fair Lane. Most of the rooms were panelled with rare and expensive exotic woods. Seeking to lighten the appearance of her home, Mrs. Ford waited until her husband was traveling and she had the living room painted a creamy white. When Henry returned home he made Clara promise him that she would not cover any more of the irreplaceable paneling with paint. When the guide was telling this story I could feel my husband's eyes boring into my back! I knew he would mention that story later, since he always says that if he is gone too long he will come home to more paint somewhere! And, yes. It was the first thing he mentioned when we got back to our car!

And again, as we were leaving I couldn't resist another shot of that magnificent staircase!

Had to show you these - Clara wanted her home to look like a castle. I took these last two photos in the ladies room - it was quite something!

Santa's Cottage, Fair Lane Manor

Sydney loved Santa and went well prepared with a long list of hopes and dreams. She had called me earlier in the day to tell me that she had chosen the outfit she planned to wear to meet Santa and it would be "extra Christmas fancy", including a purple boa!

Isabelle can live without the big guy. Mommy had to go with her but she still wouldn't look at him!

Always ready for a photo op, Sydney with Mrs. Claus.

If you live or visit near Dearborn Michigan and you have never been to Fair Lane, Greenfield Village, or the Henry Ford Museum plan to visit. It is a delightful place. The gardens are spectacular in the summer and the mansion is a treat to visit anytime.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Pink Saturday/Spiritual Sunday - Family Tradition...What's Important?

2009-12-18T17:00:00.021-05:00

Don't forget to stop by How Sweet The Sound to read about lots of PINK traditions on December 19 and lots of inspiration at Spiritual Sundays on December 20!

Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year, always has been. First of all, I am a Believer, that is I believe in Jesus Christ as my Savior, so Christmas is valued the most as the day Jesus was born on Earth in order to die on Earth. I've always loved Christmas trees and lights and just the excitement and cheer surrounding the holiday. But the older I get, the more I appreciate it for the right reasons. Sometimes you learn the most valuable lessons through experiences you believe at the time to be the most terrible losses.

A tradition my husband and I had for many years was our Christmas party. When I was a young wife and mother I was a perfectionist work-a-holic. I kept a spotless house, I volunteered for every committee and job I could find at church, and I was a maniac at entertaining. Let me just say, not to blow my own horn or anything, but a party I could give, and lots of them! Our Christmas party was attended by about 100-120 people every December. I prepared for months. I started cleaning at Halloween (even removing the light fixtures to clean underneath!) and I started decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving. Then I
baked, packaged, and froze from Thanksgiving until the party date. I always served hot and cold hor d'ouvres, then a hot buffet, followed by a dessert buffet - I always baked 12 dozen cookies, plus tarts, cakes, cheese cakes, and candy. Of course in addition to the entertaining, I shopped and did all the family preparations for Christmas as well. I LOVED working and cleaning and ironing. I know, weird...maybe even a little crazy! I prided myself on my clean house and my organization. Plus, I worked full time as an administrative assistant. I could out work any woman I knew.  But most of all, I loved entertaining. Our Christmas party was just the highlight of my year and Christmas holiday.

Our Christmas party was just the highlight of my year and Christmas holiday. Hmmm. What's wrong with that statement? Didn't I start by writing "I am a Believer, that is I believe in Jesus Christ as my Savior, so Christmas is valued the most as the day Jesus was born on Earth in order to die on Earth" ??? Why, yes I did. So what happened to remind me of what I should really value? I got sick. I do not believe God punishes us by making us sick or allowing bad things to happen. But I do believe that God allows us to learn valuable lessons enabling spiritual growth through some of life's most traumatic events.

About fifteen years ago I began to develop some weird illnesses out of the blue. I was hospitalized multiple times for odd ball serious things like meningitis and unusual pneumonia's. I developed arthritis. I developed an overwhelming fatigue and was almost never well. I eventually had to quit my job and I could no longer work at home as I always had. I saw doctor after doctor but it was only 4 years ago, two days before Thanksgiving, that I received a diagnosis. I have a very rare white blood cell abnormality which effects my health and energy in general. The silver lining in this storm cloud is that there is a treatment. The unpleasant part of the treatment is that it is an IV infusion at a chemo clinic every three weeks. Every three weeks of my life. As long as I live. So long, party queen, hello 110 year old hag. That's how I felt when I got this diagnosis.

To make a long story short, I had a chest port implanted and I have been receiving infusions every three weeks for almost four years. I hate every minute of every treatment and I resent the intrusion in my life. But having said that, I know how blessed I am. There is a treatment for my disease and it is working. Is life the same as it used to be? Nope, far from it. The treatment itself often makes me sick for days. I have about two good weeks out of four. Even with the treatment I still get sick a lot. I still have arthritis. I have a 400 times greater risk of developing lymphoma than people who do not have my disease. Life is very different for me and for my family now because of this hateful disease, but has it ruined my life? To the contrary, the lessons I've learned these last four years have blessed my life.

Priorities. Don't we all want to set the right priorities? I know I did. And I thought I had. But really, did I need to remove the light fixtures from the ceilings in order for guest to enjoy my Christmas buffet? Did my kitchen floor really require a toothbrush scrubbing so 120 guests could walk over it during a Michigan winter? And did my guests actually notice that every room in my house had at least one Christmas tree - each one following a perfectly matched theme? Did our extended family members appreciate the elaborate hand made gifts I created for them each year or the packages wrapped as if they came from the finest shops? Did any of these things hold a fraction of the importance I thought they did?

It's taken me four years to get to a place where I can say that I am truly more content than I have ever been in my life.  For me, it took a serious illness to teach me the truly valuable things in life. I still like a clean house - even sick I can out work half the women I know! The difference is, I don't have to work until one or two in the morning to feel ok about myself. I am still a perfectionist, but now I usually know when to stop. I'm ok with a store bought gift just like every body else and this year I don't even have bows on my packages! Yikes - I can't believe I said that! I don't spend sleepless nights making mental lists of things I need to do the next day. I can enjoy watching a movie sitting down rather than only while doing dishes or ironing. Most importantly, I spend time of true worship and prayer during each day. I can allow myself to drop everything and leave a job half finished to spontaneously go to a movie with my husband or babysit my granddaughters or sit down and really enjoy a guiltless phone conversation with my daughter or my mom or a friend. I see the value in things I used to view as wasted time. This Christmas Day my husband and I will sit around our family room with our son and daughter-in-law, our daughter and son-in-law, and our two granddaughters. We will go around the room, each one opening one bowless gift at a time, lavishing in the joy of the moment. There will be no rushing to pick up wrapping paper, no obsessive gathering of coffee cups and cinnamon roll plates. This family tradition will add new pages in our book of cherished family memories.

TIME...LOVE...FAMILY

When I learned of my diagnosis and the nature of this progressive disease, I thought my life as I knew it was over. Well, it was. But what I thought was going to be the most terrible loss of my life has turned out to be one of the greatest blessings of my life. Don't misunderstand me, I really wish I didn't have this disease! But that's just the way the cookie crumbles. I do have it and I am doing just fine. Better than fine, I have learned to trust God with every aspect of my life. God never fails and He never makes a mistake. He knew exactly what he was doing when he made me with too few white blood cells. And He also knew I wouldn't be happy about it!  He knew He was going to help me see beauty in a more simple life and He knew I would see more opportunities to praise Him and to witness for Him.

I'll finish this post with some pictures of our home decorated for Christmas. We're not having a party, but we are celebrating. It's almost Jesus' birthday!

I am wishing each of you a blessed Christmas with those you love and a new year filled with joy!

Merry Pinkness

2009-12-16T00:25:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share some pictures of my Christmas decorations this week. This little feather tree is in one of my bathrooms and the tree itself was a gift from my long time friend CeeKay (Thinkin' of Home) and her hubby last Christmas. Hope you are all enjoying peaceful and joy filled days.

Over The Top

2009-12-14T22:40:00.000-05:00

Heidi, Heart and Home, has chosen me to receive a fun "Over The Top" award for my blog, as long as I pass this on to five blogs and answer the following questions with one word. Sweet Heidi is totally gorgeous and has the most beautiful blog. If you have never been to Heart and Home, it should be your next stop! Thank you, Heidi - you're so sweet!

Can I answer these questions with ONE word? We'll see...
Where is your cell phone? charging

Your hair? decent

Your mother? strong

Your father? amazing

Your favorite food? sugar

Drink? water

Dream/goal? Italy

What room are you in? kitchen

Your hobby? painting

Your fear? loss

Where do you want to be in 6 years? beach

Where were you last night? shopping

Something that you aren't? warm

Muffins? blueberry

Wish list item? beach

Where did you grow up? Smokies

Last thing you did? grandbabies

What are you wearing? nightie

Your tv? big

Pets? Noah

Friends? loyal

Your life? happy

Your mood? content

Missing someone? Linda

Vehicle? new

Something you're not wearing? shoes

Your favorite store? Kohl's

Favorite color? pink

When was the last time you laughed? tonight

When was the last time you cried? weeks

Your best friend? Jeri

One place that I go to over and over? church

Facebook? never

Favorite place to eat? Antonio's

I'm passing the Over The Top award on to: Anyone who would like to take it! There are so many over the top great bloggers that I can't chose 5!

Mary Did You Know

2009-12-12T18:07:00.019-05:00

Mary Did You Know - Clay Aiken

Please visit Spiritual Sundays and Praise and Worship Sunday for many inspirational posts!

I Heard The Bells

2009-12-09T12:03:00.002-05:00

I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day - Casting Crowns

Pink Saturday - Childhood Christmas Memory

2009-12-05T11:44:00.003-05:00

Visit Beverly to read about many other wonderful holiday memories!

My seventh Christmas was the most memorable of my childhood.

My dad was typical of depression era men. He moved us to Michigan from Tennessee in search of work. Dad worked in a steel mill and often took on a second and even third job to make ends meet. I've often been reminded of Dad's selfless work ethic and commitment to family during times my husband and I needed to do some finagling in order to make ends meet, especially when we were younger and had small children. My mother was a stay at home mom, then known as a "house wife" - yikes - not really a very attractive term, is it? It doesn't quite describe what most moms do, whether they work outside the home or not. My mother was a fabulous success in her career. She kept an immaculate house, she managed four children and all the activities that go with them, she baked like Betty Crocker, she sewed all our drapes and many of our outfits, and she decorated our home beautifully with what was available or she could make. I was a lucky little girl.

When I was seven, my sister was ten and my brother was four. I remember our house as clearly as if I were in it now. We had a tan VINYL sectional sofa - WOW, is all I can say about that, but it was the height of fashion in 1959! At that time both my parents smoked, children of the south, and they had the coolest ash trays - pottery on a stand. I can still see Dad rolling his own cigarettes on old crank machine. There was a farm house type kitchen with an attached "utility room" - what we would now call a laundry room. Mom's laundry room was always in action. My sister and I shared a bedroom, fully decked out in pink ruffles, compliments of Mom's sewing machine. My bed was next to a window and just outside it was a huge old lilac, thus began my life long love affair with lilacs.

In 1959, all I wanted for Christmas was Chatty Kathy. Kids weren't inundated with toy advertisements on television then like they are today so the really great toys that were on TV commercials were a big deal. When I saw Chatty, I knew she had to be mine. A big Christmas for kids in average working class families in the '50's would have been a three or four gifts each. But Chatty girl was all I needed. I was so excited that Christmas morning when we got up and sat around the Christmas tree in our jammies. Of course the tree was real and it was decorated with those big, hot multi-colored bulbs that every kid burned their fingers on at some point in childhood. The gifts were passed out. I remember three. A tiny box, a soft, tissue wrapped package, and a large box. As we opened our gifts, I saved the large box for last, hoping it was what I thought it might be. I remember Mother wanted my sister and I to open our identical tissue wrapped packages together, so we opened those first. How I wish I still had that sweet gift. Mother had made us matching gray wool flannel poodle skirts. The poodles were pink - I always have been a pink girl, you know! Karen and I both wore our little skirts for Christmas day. The tiny box contained one of the most precious gifts I've ever recieved. My father had saved his money and gone by himself to buy sweet little gold bracelets for my sister and I. I believe my brother got a little car to ride in that year. I had already received two wonderful gifts but I had my eye on the larger box. When I opened it my seven year old dreams came true! Chatty Kathy sat in all her glory, dressed in a sweet little pink striped dress and white pinafore.

Christmas in 1959 brought lovely gifts and happy memories for a life time. The years have flown by and this mother and grandmother of 57 (I will be 57 on my birthday tomorrow) realizes the real gift my parents gave me. I never knew of the times my parents struggled to make ends meet. I thought all daddies worked three jobs. I thought all mommies made their children's clothes and bedspreads and scrimped to make groceries last. My childhood was one of security and the knowledge that I was loved and wanted.

What more does any child need?

Come On Girls, Laugh Out Loud!

2009-12-01T00:01:00.004-05:00

It's here again already! Thanksgiving is behind us and the Christmas rush is in full swing. In spite of the fact that this season is the "season of joy", it can also be stressful with shopping, cleaning, entertaining, wrapping, decorating, family, etc.. Every once in a while you get a piece of email that just makes you laugh. And who doesn't need a good hard belly laugh once in a while? I got this one last year and it just cracked me up. I hope it provides you a few minutes of stress relieving laughter too!

Christmas Is Tight This Year
(everyone loves a homemade gift)

My Dear Friends,
Somewhat embarrassing to admit, Christmas is tight this year and I will be making bedroom slippers for you all as gifts. Please let me know your sizes. You'll most likely agree that it's a splendid idea, and should you wish to do the same, I've included the instructions below.

How to make bedroom slippers out of maxi pads:

You need four maxi pads to make a pair.

Two of them get laid out flat, for the foot part.

The other two wrap around the toe area to form the top.

Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part.

Decorate the tops with whatever you desire, silk flowers (this is most aesthetically appealing), etc.

These nifty slippers are:

* Soft and Hygienic

* Non-slip grip strips on the soles

* Built in deodorant feature keeps feet smelling fresh

* No more bending over to mop up spills

* Disposable and biodegradable

* Environmentally safe

* Three convenient sizes: (1.) Regular, (2.) Light and (3.) Get out the Sand Bags.

I've attached a photo of the first pair I made so that you can see the nifty slippers for yourself....

I'm awaiting your response...it's crucial that I get the right size for each one of you!

Oh come on! Laugh out loud with me - you know this is just funny!

Here's Your Laugh For The Day - The Thanksgiving Letter!

2009-11-23T23:32:00.002-05:00

Every woman who has ever cooked for their family on Thanksgiving will laugh - and be torn a little between wishing you had this kind of gall and the inability to imagine being so crass!

The Thanksgiving Letter:

As you all know a fabulous Thanksgiving Dinner does not make itself. I need to ask each of you to help by bringing something to complete the meal. I truly appreciate your offers to assist with the meal preparation.
Now, while I do have quite a sense of humor and joke around all the time, I COULD NOT BE MORE SERIOUS when I am providing you with your Thanksgiving instructions and orders. I am very particular, so please perform your task EXACTLY as I have requested and read your portion very carefully. If I ask you to bring your offering in a container that has a lid, bring your offering in a container WITH A LID, NOT ALUMINUM FOIL! If I ask you to bring a serving spoon for your dish, BRING A SERVING SPOON, NOT A SOUP SPOON! And please do not forget anything.

All food that is to be cooked should already be prepared, bring it hot and ready to serve, warm or room temp. These are your ONLY THREE options. Anything meant to be served cold should, of course, already be cold.

HJB—Dinner wine

The M B Family
1. Turnips in a casserole with a lid and a serving spoon. Please do not fill the casserole all the way up to the top, it gets too messy. I know this may come as a bit of a surprise to you, but most of us hate turnips so don’t feel like you a have to feed an army.
2. Two half gallons of ice cream, one must be VANILLA, I don’t care what the other one is. No store brands please. I did see an ad this morning for Hagan Daz Peppermint Bark Ice Cream, yum!! (no pressure here, though).
3. Toppings for the ice cream.
4. A case of bottled water, NOT gallons, any brand is ok.

The B B Family
1. Green beans or asparagus (not both) in a casserole with a lid and a serving spoon. If you are making the green beans, please prepare FOUR pounds, if you are making asparagus please prepare FIVE pounds. It is up to you how you wish to prepare them, no soupy sauces, no cheese (you know how Mike is), a light sprinkling of toasted nuts, or pancetta, or some EVOO would be a nice way to jazz them up.
2. A case of beer of your choice (I have Coors Light and Corona) or a bottle of clos du bois chardonnay (you will have to let me know which you will bring prior to 11/22).

The L B C Family
1. Lisa as a married woman you are now required to contribute at the adult level. You can bring an hors d’ouvres. A few helpful hints/suggestions. Keep it very light, and non-filling, NO COCKTAIL SAUCE, no beans of any kind. I think your best bet would be a platter of fresh veggies and dip. Not a huge platter mind you (i.e., not the plastic platter from the supermarket).

The M B Family
1. Stuffing in a casserole with a serving spoon. Please make the stuffing sans meat.
2. 2.5-3 qts. of mashed squash in a casserole with a lid and serving spoon
3. Proscuitto pin wheel - please stick to the recipe, no need to bring a plate.
4. A pie knife

The J D Family
1. 15 LBS of mashed potatoes in a casserole with a serving spoon. Please do not use the over-size blue serving dish you used last year. Because you are making such a large batch you can do one of two things: put half the mash in a regulation size casserole with lid and put the other half in a plastic container and we can just replenish with that or use two regulation size casserole dishes with lids. Only one serving spoon is needed.
2. A bottle of clos du bois chardonnay

The A M Family (why do I even bother she will never read this)
1. A pumpkin pie in a pie dish (please use my silver palate recipe) no knife needed.
2. An apple pie in a pie dish, you can use your own recipe, no knife needed.

Looking forward to the 28th!!
M

(courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Awkward Family Story: The Thanksgiving Letter

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Happy Thanksgiving to each one of you, Dear Bloggers!!!

Giving Thanks All The Time

2009-11-21T21:26:00.001-05:00

Giving Thanks in Difficult Times
by Franklin Graham

Some of you may have seen your life savings evaporate in the financial chaos that has brought down some of the pillars of our economy. Some may have lost your homes in a hurricane or foreclosure. Many of us have a personal stake in the battles against terrorism, and thousands of families are grieving for brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives overseas — and at home.

And that’s just the national headlines—not to mention individual tragedies like cancer and divorce that overshadow many of our lives.

In times like these, when nations are desperate for someone they can trust, Christians know we can always find strength and hope in the Word of the Lord. He tells us through the Apostle Paul, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NKJV).

Paul knew what it meant to praise God in the midst of suffering. He gave up a relatively comfortable and prestigious lifestyle to become an itinerant preacher who was repeatedly persecuted, beaten, shipwrecked and imprisoned. When he prayed to God for relief from a thorn in the flesh—what he called “a messenger of Satan to buffet me” —God answered, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NKJV).

As the world struggles to cope with disease, famine, war, disaster and poverty, it is our responsibility as Christians to assure the world that God is still in control and that He has a plan to rescue all who repent of their sins and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Not only has He suffered on our behalf, but He has promised to bear our burdens. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, NIV).
For that, we can be eternally thankful.

This old world may be falling apart, but ultimately this is not our home. “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28, NIV).

Article reprinted from Decision magazine

Visit Spiritual Sundays for inspirational posts!

Tea Moons - A Re-Run!

2009-11-12T16:14:00.001-05:00

Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage.~Catherine Douzel

While mindlessly flipping through blogs one afternoon, I came across a very interesting site called CHA DAO. It is dedicated to the discussion of tea. The author, Adrian Lurssen, described the making and collection of "tea moons". Adrian has collected many samples of teas and "moons". I decided to try making my own moons. What I would do differently when making tea moons again is to use a more absorbent paper with more texture and beauty. Here are the results of my quick tea moon session. I think this idea would made an incredible tea journal, perhaps for a gift, together with a variety of teas.

Tea moons are made by two different methods. In one, while enjoying a lovely cup of tea you wish to remember, allow a bit to spill onto the saucer, placing the cup back in the tea puddle. Then place the cup bottom on a piece of paper or a tea journal page, thus making a tea moon! The second method of tea moon making is to save a spot of tea in the bottom of your cup or a little dish. Using an artist's brush paint a tea "moon" onto paper or in your tea journal. Personally, I prefer the tea cup method - it seems more natural. Which ever method you use, allow the tea moon to dry. Then write or type the name of the tea, your description of the tea's flavor, and your enjoyment of it. Finally jot down any memories, old or new, that the tea evokes.

Steam rises from a cup of tea and we are wrapped in history,

inhaling ancient times and lands,comfort

of ages in our hands.~Faith Greenbowl

How Do You Perceive Beauty?

2009-11-08T23:54:00.000-05:00

A man sat at a metro station in Washington DC and started to play the violin; it was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousand of people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

Three minutes went by and a middle aged man noticed the musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried on to meet his schedule.

A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in the till and without stopping continued to walk.

A few minutes later, someone leaned against the wall to listen to him, but the man looked at his watch and started to walk again. Clearly he was late for work.

The one who paid the most attention was a three year old boy. His mother tagged him along hurriedly but the child stopped to look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk turning his head to see the musician as he walked. This action was repeated by several other children. All the parents, without exception, forced them to move on.

In the 45 minutes the musician played, only six people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk their normal pace. He collected $32. When he finished playing and silence took over, no one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

What no onlooker knew was that the musician they chose not to see was none other than famous violinist Joshua Bell, one of the best musicians in the world. In the subway that day he had played one of the most intricate pieces ever written for the violin, worth 3.5 million dollars. Two days before his playing in the subway, Joshua Bell performed at a sold out theater in Boston at $100 a seat.

This is a true story and test of how we perceive beauty in our world. The experiment involving Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station, was organized by the Washington Post as part of an social experiment about perception, taste, and priorities of people.

The test guidelines - a common place environment at an inappropriate hour:

Do we perceive beauty when we see it?

Do we stop to appreciate it?

Do we recognize beauty in an unexpected context?

How many things of beauty do you miss in life because you fail to recognize it?

The Buzzard, The Bat, and The Bumblebee

2009-11-07T16:56:00.025-05:00

Be sure to visit Spiritual Sundays and Praise and Worship Sunday to find many inspirational posts!

How Great Is Our God - Chris Tomlin

THE BUZZARD:
If you put a buzzard in a pen that is 6 feet by 8 feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from
the ground with a run of 10 to 12 feet. Without space to run, as is its habit, it will not even attempt to fly,
but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.

THE BAT:
The ordinary bat that flies around at night, a remarkable nimble creature in the air, cannot take off from a level place. If it is placed on the floor or flat ground all it can do is shuffle about helplessly and no doubt, painfully, until it reaches some slight elevation from which it can throw itself into the air. Then at once, it takes off like a flash.

THE BUMBLEBEE:
A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom..
It will seek a way where none exists until it completely destroys itself.

PEOPLE:
In many ways, we are like the buzzard, the bat, and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up! And that's the answer, the escape route, and the solution to any problem! Just look up.

Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, but faith looks up! How great is our God!

Have a beautiful new week everyone!