Sweetie's World

Dear Blogger Friends

2009-05-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Blogger Friends - I have been too tired and overwhelmed to keep up with everyday things. I realize that this is a phase in the grief process and I just have to work through it. I have missed my Blogger Friends. This week I developed some enthusiasm and have started to plant flowers. Tomorrow I am making a trip to the green house to get impatience and marigolds. Last Saturday, my grandsons, Tyler and Austin, got a load of mulch and spread it for me. I bought a new self-propelled mower and I'm using it while my daughter or grandson use the riding mower. I am determined to mow with the riding mower next week. I am working outside all day tomorrow.

I will probably only post once or twice a week until I get caught up with all the things that I need to do. However, I will be visiting blogs daily.

I started with several bags of top soil for the one side of the house.

I bought several hanging planters of Calibrachoa. It is not a true petunia, but looks like one and can be treated as such. Also known as Million Bells, the flowers look like miniature petunia blooms. I bought the Million Bells for the first time last year. I trimmed them weekly and they bloomed all summer. I really like this shade of yellow.

More Million Bells. Tomorrow I will hang them.

These Impatience are for the shaded front porch.

I am planting the Daisies next to the hot tub where perennials are growing and the Snapdragons next to a small fountain. I have a big pile of mulch to use in these areas.

I think that I have the perfect spot for this azalea. The small crock has some Pansies and a few other flowers. I also have two baskets of Pansies. They stay nice in our area until the end of June.

This is the new wreath that I bought for my front door.

Thank you all for being there for me.
Although my need is great,

My gratitude is more.

But you are like the sunshine,

Drowning all in light.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-04-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

First of all I would like to apologize for not posting as frequently as usual. I have had some health issues, family issues, and things that have to be taken care of. I promise that I will be back to visiting and posting more frequently very soon. I hope that each of you had a wonderful and blessed Easter. I was fortunate to have my family at my house.

This is Daughter Stephanie with Haylee Sherryann my great-granddaughter. I hope that the blue on Stephanie's shirt qualifies this for a Blue Monday post. Haylee Sherryann is a beautiful baby.

And the Easter egg hunt begins. The guys hid 200 eggs and each was found. The sky was so very blue.

This is the Easter basket that I received as a gift. I love the pottery "basket" and it is filled with my favorite candy.

The Historical Society had an Easter flower sale this week. I volunteered to work on Thursday. I bought this beautiful hydrangea. I am hoping that I'll be able to plant it and it will grow into a beautiful hydrangea bush.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue Monday continues to grow in popularity Stop by to visit her and join in the fun. Thanks Sally for being a wonderful hostess!

A Fun Day

2009-04-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

My good friend, Elaine, invited me to drive with her to Houtzdale to visit her old friend and my new friend, Kathy. Kathy is a lovely woman that I met at Elaine's a few months ago. Kathy's husband passed away two years ago. They had lived in New Jersey and, upon retirement, returned to the home that had been his family's in Houtzdale. The home is a lovely old home that Kathy and her husband renovated. As of the census of 2000, there were 941 people, 380 households, and 275 families residing in the borough.

This is the table in the great room. We had a lovely lunch at this table.

This is Kathy's hutch. It is filled with beautiful dishes. The ducks on the top of the hutch were hand carved by Kathy's husband.

This is the lovely wood burner. Kathy informed us that her son-in-law is the expert at building fires in the wood burner.

This is one of the chairs that is in the sitting area of the great room.

This is another chair that is in the great room. It is a family heirloom.

This is a small lovely old sofa. I would call a settee. It is very cozy.

It was amazing. As I sat and looked out this window, it was as if a blizzard appeared out of no where. Kathy told me that she often sees deer when looking out of this window.

This is my old friend Elaine and my new friend Kathy. They are both wonderful ladies.

We had a wonderful day today. It was so good to get together with Elaine and Kathy. They are lovely ladies.

Blue Monday

2009-04-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

For some reason it was difficult for me to find "new blue" for this week's Blue Monday post. Before selecting my posts, I learned a little more about my favorite color.

Blue is the overwhelming "favorite color." Blue is seen as trustworthy, dependable, and committed.The color of ocean and sky, blue is perceived as a constant in our lives. As the collective color of the spirit, it invokes rest and can cause the body to produce chemicals that are calming. However, not all blues are serene and sedate. Electric or brilliant blues become dynamic and dramatic -- an engaging color that expresses exhilaration. Some shades or the overuse of blue may come across as cold or uncaring.Indigo, a deeper blue, symbolizes a mystical borderland of wisdom, self-mastery, and spiritual realization. While blue is the color of communication with others, indigo turns the blue inward to increase personal thought, profound insights, and instant understandings.Blue is the least "gender specific" color, having equal appeal to both men and women. I hope that you will like the blues that I have selected this week.

I love this set of four blue wine glasses. They match several sets of my favorite China.

This is a vase that my daughter bought for me in a thrift shop.

This is one of my many button jars. It's a blue jar. I thought that it would be fun to go through the buttons in the jar and pull out the blue buttons.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. The Blue Monday posts grow each week. Stop by to visit her and join in the fun. Thanks Sally for being a wonderful hostess!

Quilting

2009-04-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. Daughters Michele and Stephanie and I are taking a quilting class that will begin at the end of the month. We will be making a Log Cabin quilt. "A log cabin quilt is a great pattern for novice quilters. It's a familiar, traditional design so the finished product will surely make the novice feel a sense of accomplishing a time-honored craft and it's made with straight lines, so learning to maneuver the pieces of fabric isn't as complicated as a more intricate pattern might be."
Last Friday evening Dear Daughters and I went to JoAnn Fabrics to select our fabric. We are making double/queen quilts. These are the supplies that we needed. Center 1/4 yard; 1st light 1/2 yard; 2nd light 1/2 yard; 3rd light 1 1/4 yard; 1st dark 3/4 yard; 2nd dark 1 yard; 3rd dark 1 1/2 yard; border 1 1 yard; border 2 1 1/2 yard' binding, 1 yard; backing 6 1/2 yard; and batting 101 x 129.
Dear Daughters have made quilts before and Daughter Stephanie is an expert. As Michele and I had such difficulty selecting our fabrics, we decided that we would purchase the same fabric as Stephanie selected. The only difference is my backing is purple while Stephanie's and Michele's are a shade of burgundy.
We spent almost three hours in JoAnn Fabrics. It took two hours for the clerks to cut our fabric. They were very, very kind.

This is a Log Cabin design quilt.

The Career & Technology Center has cutting equipment but I bought my own so that I can work on my quilt at home.

I need extra bobbins and thread. I decided this would be an appropriate time to purchase a good pair of scissors.

This fabric will be the center block.

These are other fabrics that we (Daughter Stephanie) selected.

I am a complete novice in the art of quilt making. I'm very excited about the quilting classes and also am looking forward to spending time with Daughters Stephanie and Michele. The classes are on Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. So many of my blogger friends make beautiful quilts, and you are wonderful role models. I am anticipating working on my first quilt and hope that it will lead to more.

Blue Monday

2009-03-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

After my mother passed away, Daughter Amber bought the house that had been my childhood home. It was my sisters and my task to go through our mother's belongings. We left the dining room table and chairs in the attic. The table was not sturdy and the chairs needed upholstered. Both the table and chairs needed refinished. My sister and I thought that we would have to dispose of the table and chairs but were not quite ready to do so. Amber has a friend whose hobby is refinishing old furniture. She had the table and chairs refinished and the chairs reupholstered. Amber was anxious for me to see the finished product. I was actually in awe of the beautiful refinished table and chairs. Of course, blue is my favorite color and that fact made them all the more appealing. I half jokingly told Amber that I would trade my dining room table and chairs for hers. She immediately agreed. She said that mine was less formal and would be better for her house.

This is the chair that was at the head of the table where Daddy sat

The table has two center pieces that I stored in the closet. After I get some help rearranging the sideboard, I plan to place the table in the center of the room.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. The Blue Monday posts grow each week. Stop by to visit her and join in the fun. Thanks Sally for being a wonderful hostess!

Red Hat Society Again

2009-03-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

This is the lovely antique/vintage/craft shop that is located in the former Workman's Store in Rockhill Furnace. The Red Hat Society visited the shop after our luncheon at the Iron Rail Bed and Breakfast.

I saw many things that I would like to purchase. There were lovely spring wreaths. The owner, a beautiful lady, gave me the hours that the shop is open. I will visit again over the weekend when I have time to peruse the many unique items. In the summer, the shop also sells old fashioned Sundaes and other ice cream delicacies.

I hope that you enjoyed the activities of our local Red Hat Society! I am anticipating purchasing a new Spring red hat!!!

Fun with the Red Hat Society

2009-03-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Last week our Red Hat Society ladies had a lovely luncheon at The Iron Rail Bed & Breakfast. The lunch was exquisite and was served by the owner who was a very cordial host. As you can see, everyone was dressed in grand attire.

After lunch, our host treated us to a tour of the house. The house was built in 1885 for the superintendent of the East Broadtop Railroad.

This beautiful coal stove is actually used.

This antique organ fascinated me.

This is an area in one of the bedrooms.

A sitting area in a bedroom.

A lovely bedroom.

One of the bedrooms has a claw foot tub in its bathroom.

My next post will be of the antique/vintage/craft shop that we visited which is located near The Iron Rail Bed & Breakfast.

Successful Fund Raiser and a Suprise

2009-03-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sherry Jo's Memorial Scholarship fund raising dinner was a huge success. Daughter Michele was in charge of things and did a wonderful job.

The day started with Stephanie presenting my sister, Cissy, and me with a hap made from Sherry's jeans.

Jocasta who owns her own restaurant business volunteered her time.
Some of the helpers took some time out for a little conversation.

The people started arriving at 2:00 p.m.

There was a steady flow all afternoon.The last meals were served at about 5:30 p.m.

Friends and family helped by baking delicious cakes. The students at the Career and Technology Center made cupcakes for the take out meals.

Sheila, Michele, and Michael

Mallory and Wade

Jennifer with Seth

Dawson

Cissy, Sweetie, Amber, Sheila

Jennifer, Michele, Stephanie

This is Brooke, Sherry's youngest daughter.

Sheila and Benton

Austin

Amber and Haylee Sherryann

Ashley, Sherry's second daughter, and precious Haylee Sherryann

The big surprise!!!!

Nancy of Knitting Paths of Life and her wonderful husband, George, drove five hours to attend the dinner and to meet my family and me. I was overwhelmed to meet her. She and George are wonderful. Nancy brought a embroidered tote for me and a lovely embroidered outfit for Haylee Sherryann. Nancy embroidered Haylee Sherryann's name on the outfit and also brought several samples of her name in different fonts that can be used with other outfits. Please visit Nancy and see the pictures she posted of my tote and Haylee Sherryann's outfit.

I was not the only one touched by Nancy's and George's visit. My daughters and grandchildren are so very happy for me. They remarked over and over how special Nancy and George are.

Thank you Nancy and George for making the day even more special. We think that we will be able to award two scholarships in Sherry's name and will do it every year.

A Week's Hiatus

2009-03-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

I had a busy week last week and will have a busier week this week. I am going to take a week's hiatus from blogging. This is a brief description of this week's activities. All week I will be working on the spaghetti dinner we are planning to help support the Sherry Jo Memorial Scholarship that will be held on Saturday. I also hope to have time to go to Curves at least a few times.

Monday

I have a business meeting and Bible study.

Tuesday

I have an appointment out of town to get my taxes done.

Wednesday

I have a fun meeting with the Red Hat Society. I'll take pictures this time.

Thursday

We are going to Altoona to pick up the supplies for the spaghetti dinner.

Friday

I have my annual appointment with the neurologist at Hershey Medical Center.

Saturday

The Spaghetti Dinner

Sherry Jo Memorial Scholarship

This is the decal with the picture of Sherry that is on the T-shirts that we are wearing during the dinner.

I will be visiting blogs this week. I hope that each of you has a wonderful week!

Today

2009-03-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Today was not a good day! My house is in total chaos. I am trying to make order out of disorder. However, I seem to have lost reality. I move one step forward and two steps backward in my attempt to downsize and reorganize. The contractors finished the floor yesterday. So, ideally, I should have everything in place today – right? Wrong! I decided that I have too much stuff. I gave a deacon’s bench to Granddaughter Ashley, my grandmother’s gate leg table to Daughter Amber (I have my mother’s), and “stuff” to other daughters, granddaughters, and friends. I had the island in the kitchen covered with “stuff” which I gave away.

Tomorrow I am getting the living room and dining room in perfect order. I am having a meeting here Thursday evening so I really have a deadline.

I put my Willow Tree figurines in the corner curio cabinet in the living room.

I can't decide whether to keep the round braided rug under the dining room table. I don't even know where to put the dining room table.

Amidst the complete pandemonium, something wonderful happened. Granddaughter Ashely brought Haylee Sherryann and Mason for a visit. Isn't Haylee Sherryann beautiful?

Mason loves to play the piano.

Sweetie, Mason, and Haylee Sherryann. Does it ever get better than this?

Once everything is in place in the living room and dining room, I will post it!

Happy Blue Monday!

2009-03-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to Blue Monday. There are so many wonderful Blogger Friends showing their beautiful arrays of blue. This Blue Monday the contractors will complete installing my floors so I can "spring clean" and rearrange some of my blue lovelies .

These are a few pieces of pottery that I had put away. I had to empty the China cabinet so the contractors could move it. I found things that I forgot that I had. How nice!!!

This "Hill Valley" crock is my favorite piece of pottery. It probably would not be special to anyone except my husband. He was born and raised in rural "Hill Valley." That is where he enjoyed nature, hunted, and went 4-wheeling during his entire life. I don't know that you would ever see"Hill Valley" on a map but it was spectacular to Johnny.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Sally is a multi-talented Blogger. Stop by to visit her and join in the fun. Thanks Sally for being a wonderful hostess!

Friends

2009-03-06T02:00:00.000-08:00

My grandmother always told me that friends are very important. I have always recognized the importance of friends but especially appreciate them at this time in my life. Two friends of mine, Tom and Gail, invited me to dinner with them in State College where they reside. Daughter Sheila accompanied me.

Tom and Gail live in town houses across the street from each other. Both worked with me for years at the intermediate unit. Tom was Director for Curriculum and Professional Development. While in that position, he also worked with the Department of Education on statewide projects. Tom left the intermediate unit to become a superintendent of schools. He retired from that position. Gail was an Early Childhood Consultant. She is an expert in her field and has spent time in China working on their early childhood programs. She retired after I did. She currently evaluates early childhood programs across the United States. Daughter Sheila came with me. We met at Gail's house. Then Tom drove us to the Allen Street Grill where we had a wonderful meal.

Sheila, Sweetie, Gail (standing)

Tom (sitting)

We had a wonderful evening - friendship, conversation, and good food. It was so nice to see both and to catch up on their lives.

Thanks Tom and Gail for a wonderful evening!

Total mayhem!!!

2009-03-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

Alas my home is in complete pandemonium! After much thinking, I made the decision to have new floors installed in the dining and living rooms. The contractors said that they would move the large pieces as they were working. My daughters and grandchildren helped me move things. It was necessary to empty the curio cabinet, china cupboards, and move everything breakable and much of the furniture into the kitchen. I moved everything that was in the the closet to the spare bedroom. As a result almost every room of the house (except two bedrooms and the bathrooms) is in complete disarray.

These came out of a china cupboard.

Some of these were in my hutch.
The angels are from a curio cabinet.

This is the new flooring in the living room.

This is in the area of the dining room.

There were a few problems as the dining room is in the old section of our very old house and nothing is even. The living room was added recently. As soon as the contractors are done with the work, I am cleaning these rooms from top to bottom. Also, I am going to copy some of my blogger friends' ideas in the accessory decorating area. In the meantime, it's difficult to think straight among so much clutter.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-03-01T20:00:00.000-08:00

My friend, Sue, who owns Sue's Floral Art, called me on Friday and invited me to go to her shop. Sue had offered to dry flowers from Johnny's funeral and make arrangements for my daughters and me. She wanted to show me some ideas that she had for arrangements as the flowers are almost ready to make arrangements. Sue is one of the sweetest persons that I know. I asked her if it was okay to take some photos of her beautiful work. These are some of the lovely blues in her shop.

This lovely wreath is on the inside of the front door of the shop.

The blue berries and blue ribbon on this wreath are lovely together.

I really like this blue China bell.

This dried arrangement is my very favorite. There are a variety of shades of blue and the total effect is beautiful.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Each week there are more posts than the week before. There are so many wonderful blue posts. It's exciting to meet new blogger friends. Thanks Sally!

It's the little things.....

2009-02-28T18:30:00.000-08:00

It is the little things in the daily lives of our grandchildren that endear them to us. Being blessed with 16 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, I treasure each as unique and special.

Seth is the son of Jennifer and Rich. Seth is 12 years old, very active in school and an honor student. He is involved in sports playing basketball, baseball and football. Seth is a very serious young man. He is very neat and precise in his work.
Michael is also the son of Jennifer and Rich. He is nine years old. Michael is also active in sports and is an honor student. Michael is boisterous and mischievous. Rich often says, "Life is Michael's playground."

Jennifer e-mailed me these two boxes of Valentine's candy. One is Seth's and one is Michael's. Note that the candy in this box looks like it has not been touched. Each piece of candy is neatly arranged.

This is the second box of candy. You can see that pieces have been eaten and it looks like many of the pieces were smashed to see what flavor they are. Take a guess. Which box of candy belongs to Seth and which box is Michael's?

This is Mallory. Mallory is 11. She takes piano lessons and plays the trumpet. Mallory is Sheila's daughter and Benton's sister. They live just across the street from me so I see them often. Mallory has been sweet enough to spend several nights a week with me. I really appreciate her staying with me. I sleep much better with someone else in the house.

This morning before I went to Curves, I attended Wade's basketball game. Wade is nine and is quite the basketball player. This morning he made a three point basket. Wade is the son of Stephanie and Darren and the little brother of Tyler who is 17. Wade belongs to a church team. The coaches make sure that each player gets a chance to play. I was really impressed with the interaction between the coaches and the players. Wade is attempting to get the ball from another player.

In this picture, Wade had just passed a ball.

In this action shot, Wade has the ball and is trying to make a shot.

This is Stephanie. I didn't take her picture while I was at the game so she took her picture herself.

Answer to the candy questions: The first box of candy that is meticulously arranged belongs to Seth. The box with the squished pieces, of course, belong to Michael.

It's the little things that matter
When children show their love.
It's those priceless little gestures
That we so seldom speak of.

It's the little things in life
That brings to us a smile.
Words spoken so lovingly,
Make life seem so worthwhile.

It's the little things remembered,
Like a teddy bear to cuddle,
Or recalling the many times
A child stepped in a puddle.

It's the little things, which we recall,
Like a kiss from a smudgy face.
Those very precious memories,
That could never be replaced.

Little things forever etched
Within our hearts to stay.
Little things you've said or done
Shall never go away.

A Fun Day

2009-02-26T15:30:00.001-08:00

Yesterday morning my friend, Shirley, and I met halfway between our homes to go shopping. We had planned on going last Wednesday but the driving conditions were dangerous. We left on our rendezvous with no schedule and no plans.

After an hour's drive we arrived at Boscov's. I don't think that either of us was shopping for anything in particular. I love Boscov's linens and housewares, especially when they are on sale. I bought this beautiful eyelet queen sized sheet set.

The I selected four of these towels. I thought they would be nice for the downstairs bathroom. Both the sheets and the towels are an off white color. I looked at shower curtains but they were not priced low enough to be a temptation. I wish that I would have bought some wine glasses. They had some beautiful ones that were priced at purchase one and get the second for $1.00. The total cost of the sheets and towels was $36.52. What a bargain.

We stopped at Petco. Shirley's dog needed a new toy and Prince was out of pig ears. He loves them and I knew that I couldn't go home empty handed.

One of my extravagances is Bare Minerals make up made by Bare Essentials. We stopped at Ulta. Ulta is the only store in which I have found Bare Minerals. I have ordered it from QVC. Shirley and I browsed through the store and sniffed the wonderful fragrances. When I have time, I would love to have the make-over that is offered as a courtesy.

We wanted to go to Kohl's but decided that we would eat first and back track to Kohl's. Both Shirley and I were famished. We decided to eat at the Olive Garden. I had Seafood Alfredo. Shirley selected Chicken Parmesan. Of course we devoured the delicious salad and bread sticks.

Before heading to Kohl's, we stopped at "Unkel Joe's Woodshed." Unkel Joe's has crafts, curtains, table decor, fountains, yard pretties, handy kitchen gadgets - all kinds of things. We headed for the tarts. I have burned this brand of tart previously. They are soy tarts made by Swan Creek Candle Company. We each bought a variety of tarts.

We then headed for Kohl's. I was looking for some summer tops but really didn't see any that I really liked. My closest is full of office attire which I seldom wear. I need something more casual. I did get this gorgeous purple blouse. It will be great to wear to a Red Hats' meeting. It cost $3.57.
We decided to looks for some interesting shops. We went to the Antique Depot only to find that they were only open on Friday and Saturday. Since we were close to Daughter Jennifer's and her family's house. I asked Shirley if she would like to stop and see if they were home. Jennifer was working but Rich had just gotten home. Jennifer had a special report that had to be completed and she could not work on it when she was doing her lab duties so she was working on her days off. He said that he had a church service that evening. Seth and Michael then came home from school. We really had a nice visit with Rich and the boys.

We decided to start home and stop at craft shops along the way. We saw a very small shop that we never noticed before. They had lovely things inside. The owner was very friendly and advised us that everything was 40% off. Look at this bargain. It originally had pinkish berries. I asked the shop owner if she could change the berries. She was glad to oblige. These are an off white and will go with just about anything. At $23.50 is was a real bargain. Shirley bought one also.

Shirley had been looking for a solar angel. When her son was killed a group bought a tree for her and her husband to plant in his memory. She had told me several times that she wanted a solar angel to put near the tree. Alas, on our way home we saw a sign on the road advertising them. We followed the signs up a long, winding road. When we arrived at our destination, we saw cemetery monuments located outside a building. The owner came out and introduced himself. It turned out that Shirley and I both knew his family. He said that he didn't have the angels there but they were at his office. He led the way to his office a few miles away. It was so kind of him to go out of his way. Shirley was elated when she saw the solar angel. It was exactly what she wanted.

We headed on home. Shirley's car had been parked outside the restaurant where she worked. She asked me if I was hungry. I told her that I could eat a piece of pie. When we were in the restaurant, we saw that apple dumplings were on the menu. We each ordered a warmed apple dumpling with milk and a hot cup of tea. What a perfect ending to a wonderful day.

Tarts & Tart Burners - A Matter of Opinion

2009-02-25T02:00:00.000-08:00

I love to walk into my home and smell the delicious scent of clean linen, cranberry nut bread, French vanilla, or sage & cranberry apple (to name a few). Of course, I'm talking about tarts burning in a tart burner. I have read that some of my blogger friends don't care for the scent of tarts and others, like me, love them. I have several tart burners but use only one at a time. I have found that a tart can be cut in half.

I have received tarts as gifts, bought them at craft shows, gift shops, and on line. This chest sits beside the fireplace. It's a wonderful storage place.

It is filled with tarts of various scents. The blue tarts were made by my granddaughter, Erin.

I received this pretty box as a gift.

It was filled with chunks and tarts. The chunks are made by Thompson Candle Company which is located just 12 miles away. They have a wide distribution area.

My favorite tarts are McCall's. My friend, Sue, who owns Sue's Floral Art, is the dealer for McCall's candles and tarts in our area. I have this bowl of tarts sitting on the coffee table in the living room. A McCall's tart burns for three days without losing the scent.

I am off for a day of shopping with a friend today. I hope that each of you has a wonderful day. It's supposed to get up to 40 degrees. Hurray!!!

Happy Blue Monday

2009-02-22T15:49:00.000-08:00

I bought this small bowl and pitcher at a thrift shop. I can't resist anything that is blue.
This plate belonged to my Grandmother. It was just a single plate in a box of odds and ends. I have seen other plates with windmills but this is unlike any of them. I cannot read the marking on it.

This is a serving plate that my Grandmother used frequently when she "entertained."

My daughter Michele crocheted this beautiful blue and white afghan for my birthday several years ago. She spent hours working on it. It keeps me toasty warm on these cold winter night.

Small Town, Pennsylvania 1950s - The Milkman & Bonus - Latest Photos of my Great-Grandchildren

2009-02-21T18:42:00.000-08:00

I was so fortunate to grow up in the 50s. We lived in a small friendly town – the same town where I still reside. The mailman delivered mail twice a day. The owner of the small grocery store where my mother shopped delivered groceries. The bread man delivered bread and special ordered baked goods, and, of course, Herb, the milkman, delivered milk and milk products. I can visualize the early summer mornings when school was out. My sister and I were still in bed and the windows were open. My bedroom was above the back porch and the scent of the honeysuckles growing on the side of the porch permeated the air. I remember the clatter of Herb the milkman - the slamming of the doors on his white panel truck and the clang of milk bottles. Herb made deliveries in our neighborhood two or three times a week. We had a box that was insulated on the front porch where Herb put the milk. The milk was in quart glass bottles.

Mom set the clean empty bottles in the box. Herb would take the empty bottles and exchange them with full bottles. There was either homogenized or pasteurized milk. My mother preferred homogenized. The pasteurized was a few cents cheaper and had a little stripe of whole cream at the neck of the bottle. Before drinking, it was necessary to shake up the milk. We often got butter, cream, cottage cheese and even eggs. My little sister loved chocolate milk and was ecstatic when Mom ordered it from the milkman. It was so much better than the chocolate milk that we made with Nestles Quick. Herb’s arrival usually brought out several of the housewives in the neighborhood. The ladies would stop their daily chores long enough to visit with Herb and get caught up on the news around town. Herb’s route spanned the entire small town and its outskirts. He enjoyed the opportunity to share news with these women who were his friends. During that wonderful era, the mothers were home during the day. Life was slower paced. Families had one car and the dads used the car to drive to and from work. Our neighborhood was full of kids and our time was consumed with riding our bikes and playing games. Eventually, the milkman ceased to be. Herb got a job in the hospital from where he retired about 15 years ago. He is still alive and lives a block away. He must have been very, very young when he delivered milk. Herb used to stop by to "shoot the bull" with Hubby. He always mentioned delivering milk to our family and other families in the neighborhood.

I have a few old milk bottles. They bring back wonderful memories!

BONUS
Granddaughter Erin e-mailed these pictures of her children to me this evening. I couldn't wait to show you!!

My Great-Granddaughter Jocelyn

My Great-Grandson Jacob

The Red Hat Society

2009-02-19T19:15:00.001-08:00

Recently a very dear friend of mine invited me to be her guest at a meeting of the Red Hat Society. As you may already know, the Red Hat Society is an organization for women age 50 and older to just have fun. The meeting was held at a lovely restaurant. I wore a red hat, a purple satin blouse and slacks. I felt very dowdy among the well dressed women that attended the meeting. They were " dressed to the nines." It's unusual for me to feel dowdy as I love bright colors, glitter, and jewelry.

Following the delicious meal (I had crab cakes) and the camaraderie with the other lovely ladies in attendance, I was approached by the stunning Queen Mother. Imagine my elation when the Queen Mother invited me to be a member of this Red Hats Society Chapter. She presented me this beautiful pin.

On Sunday I went to the mall. I was determined that I needed appropriate accessories to wear to the meetings. My first purchase was this lovely pair of glittery red earrings.

I then found this beautiful scarf. I think that it will be stunning with my purple suit.

This beautiful hat is decorated with red and purple feathers. The hat actually makes me feel glamorous.

I like the shape of this hat. It is a little more subdued than the hat decorated with red and purple feathers.

I love this boa made from red and purple feathers. I think that it will jazz up any outfit.

WARNING

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn't go and doesn't suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we've no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I'm tired

And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along the public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick the flowers in other people's gardens . . .. . .

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

My Willow Tree Collection

2009-02-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

Three or four years ago I bought my sister a Willow Tree sister figurine for Mother's Day. As I was buying the figure, I thought of how I would love to have a collection myself. Our daughter Jennifer and her family had invited Johnny and me for dinner at their house that year. After we ate, we were sitting in their family room relaxing. I mentioned to Jennifer that I had bought my sister the Willow Tree figurine and that I thought I would like to start collecting them. Jennifer got a surprised look on her face. She left the room and returned with a pretty gift wrapped package - a Mother's Day Gift. I carefully opened the package to find my first Willow Tree figurine, Mother and Daughter. Word quickly spread among my family that I was collecting the Willow Tree figurines. I now have a huge collection. I'd like to show you a few of my favorites.

Two of our daughters bought me the Father and Daughter figure. Each figure is special.

Would you believe that three of our daughters bought me the Mother and Daughter figures? Each Mother and Daughter figure is unique to me.

Generations

Promise

Healing Grace

Willow Tree was introduced in January 2000 with one figurine, 15 angels, and the Nativity. The line has grown to encompass those sentiments that we most want to express. To our friends, to our family, to our children's teachers, to those near and dear, to those far and infrequent.
Willow Tree is an intimate, personal line of figurative sculptures representing qualities and sentiments that help us feel close to others, heal wounds, or treasure relationships to living things. These art forms beautifully express love, closeness, healing, courage, hope...all the emotions of a life well lived.

I give Willow Tree figures to special people in my life to show them that I care. I have given the figures as gifts of encouragement, love, celebration, and loss. These are just a few pieces of my large collection. I will share more with you later.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-02-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

Celebrate Presidents' Day by flying the Red, White, and Blue

Washington's Birthday is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of February. It originally honored the life and work of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Now, other presidents are also honored on this day, which is why it is often known as Presidents' Day.

The first flag had 13 stars

Although legend has it that Betsy Ross sewed the first flag from a design by George Washington, this has not been substantiated. The first documented U.S. flag was a the staggered star pattern. A strong case for the designer of the first flag is Francis Hopkinson. A delegate from New Jersey to the Continental Congress and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He submitted a bill to Congress for "currency designs, design for the great seal of the U.S., a treasury seal, a design for the flag ..."

Today's flag has 50 stars - one star for each state in the union.

Red, White and Blue "The flag is the emblem of our unity, our power, our thought and purpose as a nation. It has no other character than that which we give it from generation to generation. For most Americans, their sentiments about the flag are not something they can easily define. To most of us, they are as individual as personality, as private as a family matter and almost as personal as religion." -- President Woodrow Wilson, 1917

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue Monday posts grow each week. Now when I think of Monday it's with a smile on my face as I anxiously look forward to seeing so many beautiful shades of blue. Thanks Sally!

To my Valentine

2009-02-13T21:15:00.000-08:00

Always and Forever

You are my Valentine

Johnny - High School GraduationSweetie - High School Graduation

The Senior Prom - we were out all night.

I was only 17 - we ran off and got married. "They" said that it would never last.

We loved.

We danced.

In a hundred years from now

I know without a doubt

They'll all look back and wonder how

We made it all work out

Chances are

We'll go down in history

When they want to see

How true love should be

They'll just look at us

A Gift from God

2009-02-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

We celebrated "Family Sunday" this week. I bribed Ashley into letting me take her picture. She said that she was miserable and that she hoped February 22 would arrive quickly so that she would have her baby daughter. But little did she know......

Ashley's and Justin's beautiful baby daughter was to be born sooner than expected. She arrived a little early - February 9.

Isn't Haylee Sherryann a beautiful baby?

Daddy and Mommy love her so very much. Big brother Mason is anxious to have Mommy and Baby come home. Daddy and Mommy are both oh so tired!

Yes - tired but so very, very happy.

I am so very happy, proud, and thrilled to have another beautiful great-grandchild!! A baby is a gift from God.

Baby
WHERE did you come from, baby dear?
Out of the everywhere into the here.
Where did you get those eyes so blue?
Out of the sky as I came through.
What makes the light in them sparkle and spin?
Some of the starry spikes left in.
Where did you get that little tear?
I found it waiting when I got here.
What makes your forehead so smooth and high?
A soft hand strok’d it as I went by.
What makes your cheek like a warm white rose?
I saw something better than any one knows.
Whence that three-corner’d smile of bliss?
Three angels gave me at once a kiss.
Where did you get this pearly ear?
God spoke, and it came out to hear.
Where did you get those arms and hands?
Love made itself into bonds and bands.
Feet, whence did you come, you darling things?
From the same box as the cherubs’ wings.
How did they all just come to be you?
God thought about me, and so I grew.
But how did you come to us, you dear?
God thought about you, and so I am here.

George Macdonald (1824–1905)

Haylee Sherryann

2009-02-10T19:58:00.001-08:00

We are so proud!

A New Great-Granddaughter

Haylee Sherryann born at 3:02 p.m. on February 9, 2009

Daughter of Ashley and Justin

Granddaughter of Sherry Jo

Great-granddaughter of Sweetie

Please stay tuned.....More to come

Happy Blue Monday

2009-02-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Sunday. All five of our daughters and their families were here for Family Sunday. Our granddaughter, Ashley, is expecting a baby girl any time. Daughter Stephanie made this quilt for Ashley. This beautiful quilt is for Ashley's and Husband Justin's bed. Stephanie is now working on a pink quilt for the new Baby Girl. I love the shades of blue in this quilt. I am thinking that I will try quilting. On my next trip to JoAnn Fabrics I am purchasing the tools to cut the squares. From watching my daughters working on quilts, I think that cutting the squares requires the most patience.

At last there are blue skies in Pennsylvania. Believe it or not, the sun was shining and there was a hint of spring in the air today. I took a mile walk and felt so energized. This is the view from my front porch.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Now when I think of Monday it's with a smile on my face as I anxiously look forward to seeing so many beautiful shades of blue. Thanks Sally!

Genealogy - One of My Interests

2009-02-07T02:00:00.000-08:00

Genealogy is one of my interests. Although Johnny didn't share that particular interest, he accompanied me to court houses in a number of states, old cemeteries, and genealogical societies in search of my ancestors.

These are my paternal great grandparents. Willis Franklin Evans was born February 21, 1856 in Ohio and he was the oldest son of George W. Evans and Lavina Mackey who were pioneer settlers on this vicinity. He married Emma Winters in 1881. Emma was the daughter of George Winters and Mary Ann Stenger. In 1883 Willis and Emma traveled from Illinois to Blue Hill, Nebraska in a covered wagon. They had a few children in Nebraska then came back to the old home place in 1895. On their way back Willis, Jr. fell out of the wagon and his sister Lona saw him and got him back into the wagon. They had 12 children. Willis died on July 19, 1928. Emma died on December 28, 1935.

About 30 years ago I found this photo of Willis Franklin and Emma Winters Evans among some old pictures of my grandmother's. I knew that they were farmers and thought that they looked like a very hard working couple. I also thought that their clothes hinted of poverty.

Imagine my surprise when a second cousin shared this photo with me. It was then that I learned that much care and planning was involved during those days when having formal portraits taken. In this formal portrait, they appear to be a prosperous couple.

My grandfather, Edward Charles Evans, was the oldest son of Willis and Emma. He was born June 6, 1887 in Blue Hill, Nebraska. He worked as a superintendent for Tower Products Company in Chicago, IL. On September 24, 1925 he suffered injuries at work when something weighing 700 pounds fell on him. He died on Sunday morning, February 14, 1926 in West Side Hospital from toxemia due to fracture of the spine when he was injured. My father was only nine years old at the time of his father's death.

As my sister and I never knew any of our father's family, we are hoping to travel to Illinois and meet some of our father's relatives.

Michele's Second Quilt

2009-02-04T02:00:00.000-08:00

The Quilt

Michele is now an expert. This is the second quilt that she made (already). Each square is from a piece of Sherry's clothing. There are also some buttons on this quilt. Michele tied the yarn through them. The quilt is beautiful and a true work of love. Michele never used a sewing machine until a week ago on Saturday.

Our beautiful daughter, Sherry Jo's, birthday was yesterday. Johnny teased her incessantly because she was born on Ground Hog's Day. Of course, living in Pennsylvania, Sherry grew up knowing about Punxatawney Phil. Johnny used to make up songs and sing them to her. She would laugh and laugh.
I haven't been blogging as much as I would like. I am now overwhelmed with business matters and other activities in which I am involved. Blogging is one of my favorite past times. I consider each of you a friend and you have all been so supportive of me during this difficult time. You are the ones that put a smile on my face. Within the next month, I should be back to posting more frequently.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-02-02T02:00:00.000-08:00

My paternal Grandmother, Ruth, was such an elegant lady. Gram was born in Denver, Colorado in 1891. Her family went from Denver, CO to Springfield, IL where she and her sister attended a private girls' school. Gram loved art. A print of the famous painting, Blue Boy by Thomas Gainsborough, hung in her foyer.

My Grandmother served tea and Petit Fours each afternoon. I have several of her cups, saucers, and dessert dishes in this pretty design. As some of the pieces are discolored, I hesitate to use them.

Gram served a variety of tea. Her favorite was Constant Comment.

Gram loved to burn candles. I recently found these votive holders when going through some of my mother's things. I think that they belonged to Gram.

Gram had vases of all colors and sizes. In the summer his pretty blue vase was filled with roses from her garden. Gram was such a special woman. I will share some of her unique story with you later.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue Monday participants increase each week because of Sally's hospitality. Thanks Sally!!

Vintage Pretties

2009-01-30T02:00:00.000-08:00

In an effort to initiate decluttering and organizing, I have been sorting through plastic containers and boxes that I put away until "later." I went through a box of vintage linens and doilies that I had purchased at an auction last fall. These will all go in the "keep" pile. I love the fraying fabric and beautiful embroidered and crocheted hand crafted treasures.

This is a green and white rectangle vintage crocheted doilie. Granddaughter Payton made me a flower on a card in school. It is so pretty that I placed it on the doilies and took a picture.
This is a tea tablecloth. The flowers are hand embroidered and the tablecloth has pink trim.

This large vintage linen tablecloth has vivid printed flowers.

These are ecru crocheted lace doilies.

This is a large crocheted net lace doilie.

This hand embroidered scarf with the deer and lace trim would be nice for a boy's room.

This tablecloth is huge. I really like the blue trim.

This small assortment of handcrafted work is lovely.

Bonus! An Agricultural Almanac from 1966 was at the bottom of the box.

In an attempt to make my decluttering and organizing a more manageable task, I have decided to sort one box a day. I will let my daughters go through the things that I am not keeping before donating them to a thrift shop.

Quilting Saturday

2009-01-28T02:00:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday some of my daughters and granddaughters got together at my house to work on family quilts. Stephanie has been making quilts for several years. Her enthusiasm must be contagious as the girls had a great time. They cut blocks from clothes of living and deceased family members.

Of course, Michele had to "cut up" a little bit.

This is Stephanie being serious. Stephanie, who seldom irons, said that it was necessary to put up the ironing board to iron the fabric.

Stephanie cut blocks of fabric with such precision that I was impressed.

This is Michele and Stephanie hard at work with Payton in the background. Sheila was at the quilting party also but, somehow, I missed taking a picture of her.

Mallory thought that it was really neat to cut out squares. She is anxious to begin sewing.

Since I began blogging, I take pictures all of the time. Kristen, a sophomore in college, tries to hide her face every time she sees me with a camera. Kristen is taking an elective course in fabrics.

Her assignment was to make a landscape out of fabric. Kristen really worked hard on this project.

This picture is really blurred but I wanted everyone to see Michele's first quilt. It was made using Sherry's clothes. Stephanie bought photo fabric so that Michele could place a picture of Sherry in the center of the quilt. On Saturday Brooke, Sherry's youngest daughter, stopped to see her aunts and cousins. She fell in love with the quilt made from Sherry's clothing. Michele gave Brooke the quilt. Actually Michele had planned to make a quilt for Brooke but Brooke liked this one so much that Michele gave it to her.

This is a rag quilt that Stephanie had made for Johnny. The fabric has a hunting theme with pictures of deer and bears.

This is a hap that Stephanie made. I have it on the daybed in the spare room.

The girls still have another cutting session before they actually begin to put the quilts together. On Monday I went with Sheila to JoAnn Fabrics and another fabric store to pick up quilting supplies. I am amazed at the popularity of quilting. Amber and Jennifer will join Michele, Sheila, and Stephanie at the next session.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-01-26T02:00:00.000-08:00

Daughter Sheila works at the high school with students. She is currently helping students complete their senior projects. One of her students is in the Culinary Arts program. As part of his Senior Project he prepared a complete meal. Sheila asked if they could use my kitchen. Although there are not blues in every photo, I think that there are enough that we appreciate both the blues and the talent put into the Senior Project.

Sheila does not prepare the meal but works with the student. Here are some of the ingredients that he used in preparing the meal.

The cheese stuffed shells served as the basis of a delicious pasta dish.

Here he prepared the delicious Italian bread.

There was a scrumptious cavatelli soup with bits of tomatoes and Italian spices.

This is a pasta casserole with a rich sauce and sweet Italian sausage.

The student arranged the napkins.

He began to set the table.

Here the student is teaching me to fold napkins.

I think that he set a lovely table.

As with every good meal there was a big mess.

We were served a delicious meal consisting of of a variety of h'orderves (the stuffed mushrooms were my favorite), wonderful warm Italian bread, a delicious Italian salad, cavatelli soup, pasta casserole, stuffed shells, and tiramisu, an Italian dessert.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue Monday participants increase each week because of Sally's hospitality. Thanks Sally!!

Lunch at Elaine's

2009-01-23T02:00:00.000-08:00

I have a very dear friend, Elaine. I first became acquainted with Elaine when I began attending Historical Society meetings just two years ago. Elaine's husband, Murray, is President of the Historical Society. When our daughter, Sherry, was murdered, Elaine was there for us. She was also there for us when Johnny's brother died. Then Johnny started attending the Historical Society meetings. The four of us began going out to dinner and having dinner at each other's houses. We developed a deep friendship. Elaine is a minister who currently ministers at a nursing home. Elaine has a positive attitude and is my role model. When Johnny passed away, Elaine was there for me. She was so warm and loving with our entire family. Elaine accepts us as we are and only sees the good in people. A few weeks ago Elaine had a heart attack and was hospitalized. She now has a stent and is recovering. Instead of thinking of herself, Elaine invited a friend of hers, Kathy, to visit and stay overnight. Elaine then invited me to have lunch with her and Kathy. Elaine is a wonderful hostess. I love to visit her home. It is filled with beautiful antiques and other treasures that she has collected over the years.

Elaine

Elaine's friend Kathy was charming. I felt as though I had known her for years.

Elaine has a wonderful collection of cups.

This is a display of Elaine's beautiful glassware.

The picture on the left is that of the young man playing a saxophone. The picture on the right is the gentleman in his later years. Elaine and Murray developed a deep friendship with him and remained friends until his passing.

This is one of the teapots in Elaine's collection. It was created by a local artisan.

Elaine collects sugar bowls and pitchers.

This beautiful tablecloth was hand embroidered many years ago by Elaine's mother.

Elaine invites her guests to select the tea cup from her collection that they prefer to use. I selected this beautiful tea cup and saucer. She told me that it is Russian. She served a wonderful lemon dessert.

I thank God for Elaine's friendship.

"Don't walk in front of me,

I may not follow;

Don't walk behind me,

I may not lead;

Walk beside me,

and just be my friend."

Fun Day with Daughter Michele

2009-01-21T02:00:00.000-08:00

Today I had an appointment in Altoona which is about an hour's drive. Daughter Michele said that she would take a vacation day and drive as she had to stop a few places herself. I drove to Michele's house and we left there at about 8:30 a.m. I stopped at the post office and then we were on our way. My appointment was at 10:00 and lasted about an hour. Michele had to buy some supplies at JoAnn Fabrics for Granddaughter Kristen who is in college. The supplies were for an elective class that Kristen is taking. It is a "Fabrics" class. Also, Michele has taken an interest in quilting. She and Daughters Stephanie and Sheila are having a "quilting class" at my house on Saturday. I have been wanting to make a vintage look apron. I picked up a pattern and was selecting fabric when I saw "Domestic Diva" apron kits. I decided that I would buy two and try them. I'll probably work on them while Daughters are working on quilts.

Michele and I then drove to Kristen's college Mount Aloysius, which was about a 20 minute drive, to deliver her supplies. This is the administration building. I think that it looks like a Gothic castle.

Kristen was happy to see us. This photo of Kristen is one that I've had. Kristen is studying to be a medical assistant. She is now doing an internship. We caught her just as she was finishing lunch. I had hoped to see her room (she redecorated) but she had to get to a class.

Michele and I were starved. We drove back to Altoona and stopped at the Olive Garden. She had Chicken Parmigiana and I had Fettucine Alfredo. Of course, we filled up first on salad and bread sticks. Everything was absolutely delicious.

I love Fettucine Alfredo. I found this recipe on the web. It is supposed to taste like the Olive Garden's. I'm going to try it next week.
Fettucine Alfredo
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter

2 tablespoons cream cheese
1 pint heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
salt
black pepper
2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (preferably fresh)
1 lb fettuccine, prepared as directed
Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter.
2. When butter is melted, add cream cheese.
3. When the cream cheese is softened, add heavy cream.
4. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan.
7. Serve over hot fettucine noodles.

Of course, no trip to Altoona is complete without a visit to their Super Walmart. Michele and I were so stuffed from eating at the Olive Garden that it was difficult to maneuver through Walmart. She bought some more quilting supplies. I did a little shopping. I am looking for a four or five drawer filing cabinet and Walmart only had filing cabinets with two drawers. On the way home we stopped at a surplus store that I was told sold filing cabinets. Unfortunately, the only one they had was scratched.

We arrived at Michele's house and moved my purchases from her car to mine. I arrived home and Daughter Sheila was cooking my supper. I didn't have the nerve to tell her that I was still full from my visit to the Olive Garden.

Happy Blue Monday

2009-01-18T17:18:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have gone through various decorating phases and themes. My apple phase was about 12 years ago after the second remodeling of our kitchen. I had one wall that was wallpapered in blue and white checks with an apple border. The valances on the kitchen curtains matched the wallpaper. I had apple tea towels, an apple clock, apple baskets, apple glasses, and about anything else you could imagine. My apple decor was all trimmed with blue. About the only thing left from that period is my set of apple dishes which I still love. The set has a blue accent color.

The big mug is wonderful for a steaming cup of coffee.

The bowl is the perfect size for some delicious home made soup.

The dinner plate is huge. I usually use this set of dishes when I have guests for lunch.

Christmas is past for this year but I'd like to share this lovely vase that my third grader Grandson Dawson lovingly made and so proudly gave to me. He had it wrapped beautifully. I can hardly wait for summer weather so I can use the vase to hold gorgeous flowers. In the meantime, I have it displayed on my hutch.

Sally at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue Monday participants increase each week thanks to Sallie's hospitality. Please visit Sally and you will open the doorway to a varied assortment of beautiful shades of blue. Thanks Sallie!!!

Under the Weather

2009-01-16T18:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends, I have been under the weather for a few days. I hope to be back to blogging within a few days.

Hugs,
Sweetie

An Excursion

2009-01-14T11:40:00.000-08:00

Daughter Stephanie and Grandson Wade had a dentist appointment and asked me to ride along. My mind was racing as I said, "I'd love to go." I know that any trip with Stephanie leads to an adventure. The time at the dentist was brief as Stephanie and Wade only needed a check-up and a cleaning. Stephanie told me that she had to go to JoAnn Fabrics and the Fashion Bug. While she selected quilting supplies in JoAnn Fabrics, I browsed. I have piles of fabrics and sewing supplies at home and didn't purchase anything. Next we went to the Fashion Bug which was having a "going out of business" sale. Everything in the store as 70 per cent off. We went our separate ways. I found a white winter jacket that I loved on clearance for $20. When I caught up with Stephanie she had several items, including a jacket exactly like the one I selected. I guess now we'll be twins.

$20 Clearance Jacket

We were hungry so I suggested we go to the Honey Creek Inn. It's a little restaurant with a lot of atmosphere. I wish that I had taken my camera.There are displays of quilts, old utensils, and other rustic items. I navigated the way (hoping that I remembered the location). We arrived and, on entering the restaurant, Stephanie picked up a small brochure. After studying the menu, I selected eggs Benedict (delicious). Wade got an enormous breakfast of eggs, sausage, home fries, and pancakes. Stephanie had eggs and sausage. Everything was delicious!! Then Stephanie looked at the brochure and discovered that Hartley's Potato Chip Factory had a store as did Asher's Candy Factory. The sweet waitress gave us directions to both. I waited in the car while Stephanie went in the potato chip factory. She came out with a huge bag of potato chips. They were seconds (a little darker than those that are sold) for only $3. I took Stephanie's and Wade's picture with the bag of chips after we got home. Then off we went to Asher's Candy factory. The aroma of chocolate filled the air as we walked into the store. The store was wonderful. Along with candy, there was a variety of country decorating accessories, cards, and other gift items. One section of the store was filled with "seconds."

The chocolate covered potato chips was the only candy I bought at regular price. I had never heard of them and was curious about the taste.

I had also never tasted chocolate covered taffy. I tried it on the way home and it was delicious.

These white chocolate covered pretzels look delicious. I also bought a bag of seconds that contained a variety of chocolates.

There was a rack of Valentines with a vintage look. I bought three for just $1.We left and headed home. On the way home, we saw a craft store where we had previously shopped. Unfortunately, it was closed. We arrived home and I insisted that Stephanie come in the house so that I could take a picture. My sweet daughter humored me, although she said that she was tired. Stephanie and Wade left and silence permeated my home. I thanked God for my family

Blue Monday

2009-01-11T20:15:00.000-08:00

Another cold, icy Sunday in Pennsylvania. After church, I curled up on the sofa and watched television (something that I rarely do). The sofa and love seat are gray I have blue throw pillows on each and blue accents throughout the room.

It is so cozy covering up with this blue and white rag quilt that was handmade by Daughter Stephanie. She also made a rag quilt for our queen size bed. I'll share that quilt in an upcoming post.

A cup of herbal tea helped me to relax. This is one of a set of four cups that I bought from The Dollar Tree. The cup holds more coffee or tea than any other that we have.

This winter seems exceptionally long and cold. I am considering a trip to Florida to visit my best friend.

Sallie at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Blue has always been my favorite color but I continue to be amazed by the blues displayed by my Dear Blogger Friends. Please visit Sallie to see the wide array of shades of blue. Thanks Sallie!!!

A Snowy Day

2009-01-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

It snowed a little during the night and a big snow was supposed to begin again during the afternoon. My daughter and son-in-law shoveled the front and back walks. I thought that I would run some errands before the big snow started. A friend of ours had a baby girl and I had planned a trip to the jewelry store to buy her a baby ring. Also, I need to stock up on greeting cards and cleaning supplies. As I was ready to leave, Johnny's cousin, Tom, who is a contractor and was very close to Johnny, was kind enough to stop in and show me some things. Tom reviewed the circuit breaker with me - most of it had been labeled. Then he looked at the water heater and told me the date that he had installed it. He showed me the water shut off. Then we went on the side of the house where the addition is. Johnny's workshop is in the basement under the addition. Tom told me how the sump pump works. Then we went outside and he showed me some things about the hot tub. Over the years, Tom has done all of the work and remodeling on our house and always comes immediately when there is an emergency. I so appreciate Tom's stopping. Both he and his wife, Fred, are good people. It really started snowing hard before Tom left so I decided that I would run errands another day.

Some of my grandchildren wanted me to play Bingo. I just didn't feel like it. I told them that I might play Monopoly with them later. As I went upstairs, I could hear them calling numbers.

I decided that I would curl up with one of my favorite magazines. I have a pile of three weeks of magazines that I haven't even looked at. For some reason, I was a little restless and anxious. I just couldn't concentrate and take in the words of Country Home.

I glanced at my dresser and saw a box that Daughter Stephanie made me for Christmas. The box is called "The Simple Things" and contains hundred of pieces of paper upon which Stephanie typed brief bible verses, quotes, and words of wisdom. She painstakingly cut and folded each small piece of paper. I selected a piece of folded paper that was in the box.

I read the words, "God will not permit any troubles to come upon us, unless he has a specific plan by which a great blessing can some out of the difficulty."

I then remembered one of Johnny's favorite sayings, "It God brings you to it, God will get you through it." I am so glad that today I pulled the tiny folded piece of paper out of my "The Simple Things" box.

My Journal

2009-01-09T02:00:00.000-08:00

Towards the end of December I became impressed by the journals of some of my blogger friends. The words they wrote seemed to flow with lovely descriptions and vivid details. On one of my many Christmas shopping trips, I had bought several journals as gifts. I still had a set of three that I had not given as a present. I decided that on New Year's Day 2009 I would enter my first entry into a journal. I thought that writing in a journal might be therapy for me. I am past having aspirations for fame and fortune but I would like to find more purpose for my life. In an effort to help myself to articulate my thoughts more meticulously, I searched the Internet for information about writing in journals. After hours of reading material that appeared to instruct journal authors to write like students writing a thesis for a doctorate, I came across the following brief article which to me is what journal writing is all about.

Journal Therapy is the act of writing down thoughts and feelings to sort through problems and come to deeper understandings of oneself or the issues in one's life. Unlike traditional diary writing, where daily events and happenings are recorded from an exterior point of view, journal therapy focuses on the writer's internal experiences, reactions, and perceptions. Through this act of literally reading his or her own mind, the writer is able to perceive experiences more clearly and thus feels a relief of tension. This has been shown to have mental and physical health benefits.

My set of three journals

Although I am a novice, I have learned that writing in my journal is relaxing. I drink a cup of tea as I write and compose my thoughts in a leisurely manner. Life has enough pressures without my turning a fun project into work.
One of my favorite possessions is this appointment book that belonged to my great-aunt, Frances Irene Kyle Rosensteel who was born in 1901. She actually used the appointment book as a journal.

Aunt Frances was only 19 when she wrote in this 1920 appointment book.

Aunt Frances talked about her courtship, her family, and her everyday life. I have to use a magnifying glass to read where she wrote in pencil as it is so faded. I love reading about Aunt Frances' life as she lived it all those years ago.

My desire for my journal is that many years from now someone will read and enjoy it as I enjoy the journal that my great aunt wrote so many years ago.

An Award and Gifts

2009-01-06T00:05:00.000-08:00

Thanks Chris!

Chris of Welcome Friends to to Chris's Corner presented this award to me. The award focuses on the friendships that blossom here in blogland. Blogs who receive this award are 'exceedingly charming' say its authors. This blog invests and believes in the PROXIMITY-nearness in space, time and relationships. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."So according to the rules I must mention eight more bloggers with whom to share this with award.
Donna at http://adventureswithtassie.blogspot.com/
Anne at http://peekaboostreet.blogspot.com/
Susan at http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/
Jennifer at http://oldavonladysorders.blogspot.com/
Elizabeth at http://ebogie.blogspot.com/
Kitty at http://mykittyscraps.blogspot.com/
Cindy at http://onlymehere-justanotherdayinparadise.blogspot.com/
Dawn at http://dawnsdaybreak.blogspot.com/

A Few Meaningful Christmas Gifts

I was in kind of a fog over Christmas this year. I went through all of the motions of Christmas rituals but really did not appreciate the special gifts given to me by friends and family. This morning during a few hours of solitude I took time to go through these treasures and actually see them for the first time. I will share more unique gifts with you later.

This lovely keyring has a photo of my daughter, Sherry. It was given to me by her daughter, Erin. I am anxious to put my keys on this keyring. As I gaze at Sherry's picture, it is as though she is looking at me.

Erin also gave me this wonderful book. I will keep it with my newest book, Simple Abundance, so I will easily be in reach of it. I thank God each day for the blessing of my loving grandchildren.

My granddaughter, Ashley, also Sherry's daughter, gave me this exquisite table scarf that came from Italy. Ashley's friend visited Italy and Ashley gave her money to buy something special for me. There are three photos so that you can see the handcrafted beauty. I put this on my dining room table.

I hope that all of you, My Blogger Friends, are safe and warm. My daughter, Sheila, and her children, Mallory and Benton, are spending the evening with me. We are in the midst of an ice storm in Central Pennsylvania.

Still - a Little Christmas

2009-01-03T02:00:00.000-08:00

My Christmas decorations are packed away but these are so pretty that I am keeping them on display for a while. On one of my mother's last Christmases I gave her a beautiful Nativity set. She loved it to much that it was a permanent fixture in her home. I am my mother's daughter.

I love this arrangement with the plaid ribbon and red candle.

This arrangement has a few varieties of ivy with a poinsettia.

I had this dried arrangement made. I will re-use the pewter container.

I love poinsettias. I have the instructions for keeping them so that they will bloom next winter. I am going to give it a try.

This poinsettias in this container are almost a shade of pink.

Today I wrote in my journal for the second time. Tomorrow I'm going to check with Curves to see if they have a trial offer. I really want to start working out. I have a neuromuscular disease that somewhat limits my exercise but I really want to strive to be more physically fit.

I want to thank you, my Dear Blogger Friends, again for your support and compassion. Each of you is a positive force in my life and you have provided me with the incentive to move forward.

Happy New Year and Our Family Christmas

2008-12-31T17:29:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to my Blogger Friends! Many of you know that our first born daughter, Sherry, was murdered three days after Thanksgiving 2007. This year I told my husband, Johnny, that I just did not think that I could have our family at our home for Thanksgiving. Johnny asked me how many years have we had everyone at our house for Thanksgiving. I replied that it began right after Sherry was born. He told me that it was tradition and that we had to continue it for our family. Thanksgiving was difficult but we clung to each other and were closer than ever.
On December 14 Johnny passed away unexpectedly in his sleep beside me. Our family is devastated.....but I remembered what Johnny had told me about Family Tradition. Johnny was the heart of our family. Our entire family gathered at our home and celebrated Christ's birth. Yes - it was hard - but it was something that we had to do. And yes....we are closer than ever.

Grandson Michael

Kristen, Joe, Daughter Michele, & Joey

Grandson Seth

Grandson Tyler

Tyler, Daughter Stephanie, Darren, & Wade

Mallory, Daughter Sheila, Benton

The grandchildren put on their new pajamas & slippers & posed for a picture.

When Mom was alive, almost every picture of her shows her holding up her hands. My sister, Cissy, Daughter Sheila, and I were playing "Mom."

Son-in-law Joe with Joey

Great-Granddaughter Jocelyn

Grandson Dawson

Grand Daughter Brooke almost fell asleep.

Grandson Austin

Granddaughter Ashley with Great-Grandson Mason

Daughter Amber with Payton, Dawson, & Austin

When those we love go away,

they never really leave us;

they are with us now, wherever we are.

Those whom we have cherished, live on forever,

for love wraps itself around the heart.

Although it's difficult now,

someday beyond our tears and all the world's wrongs;

beyond the clouds and all that we can see and touch,

we shall all understand.

Thank You Friends

2008-12-17T19:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

I am exhausted by the events of the last few days and thought that I would try to relax by checking out my blog. I am overwhelmed with all the well wishes of my friends. It truly is touching. You have become such an important part of my life. The visitation was yesterday and the funeral was today. The funeral was lovely. A priest, a friend of ours who is a minister, and our son-in-law who is a minister officiated. Our grandchildren took part part in the service. We were comforted by the many people that attended. I have so many things to take care of from now until Christmas. Tomorrow I have to start taking care of some business and then I need to finish Christmas shopping. We are having Christmas eve at our house with the entire family as we do each year. It will be so difficult as "Pap" was and will always be the "head" of our large family. I will be back in a week or two. Thank you so much, Dear Friends. Each of you is special.

Love,
Sweetie

Please pray for our family

2008-12-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

My beloved husband passed away unexpectedly early this morning. Please keep our family in your prayers. Our daughters and their families are with me. I feel like I know you so well that I needed to share this with you.
Love,
Sweetie

Our Grandchildren - Segment Nine - Package from Carolyn - Awards

2008-12-13T02:00:00.000-08:00

Austin

Austin is the son of Amber and oldest brother of Dawson and Payton. He is a sixth grade honor student. Austin will be 12 in January.
Austin loves the outdoors - four-wheeling, hunting, and fishing. Austin enjoys History and enjoys telling me facts about historical events.

Austin excels in sports. He plays Little League baseball, football and wrestles. He has been on the baseball and football all star team and his wrestling team was in the regional tournament. This is the season for wrestling. He has a match today. I wish that I had some of his newest sports photos to share with you.

I spent most of the afternoon at some of my grand children's Christmas programs. I love the elementary programs. The girls and boys were giggling - wanting to perform - yet still a little shy. I was so glad that they still sing "Christmas" music.

When I got home from the programs, there was a package sitting next to my front door. Carolyn of Purple Diva's Diary sent me a beautiful Christmas ornament and a box of golden walnut cookies. I will warm a few cookies (as per the directions) and have them with my coffee tomorrow morning. My tree is not yet decorated so the lovely ornament that Carolyn sent me has the distinction of being the first decoration on the tree. The photo doesn't do her justice. She has a lovely delicate face and unique rose petal attire. Please stop over and visit Carolyn. Her blog has a wonderful design. She has a wonderful sense of humor. You'll enjoy her blog. Thank you Carolyn!

Awards

Kathy of Welcome to Mimi's Garden presented me with two awards. Mimi's Friendship Award and the Lemonade Award. Mimi's Friendship Award is Kathy's special award and I am happy to accept it

The Lemonade Award is described as an award received by someone who knows how to make lemonade out of lemons and who shows gratitude. Kathy, I am so very happy to accept this award. Please visit Kathy. She has some wonderful recipes, Christmas decorating ideas, and has a warm personality. I am presenting this award to Connie of Living Beautifully. Connie turns everything she touches into a thing of beauty and has exceptional personal values.

Thank you Kathy!

Our Outside Christmas Decorations

2008-12-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

I finished decorating the outside at the beginning of the week. Our daughters helped me as Hubby has been having some health problems. I buy a few new pieces each year and alternate some of the decorations. A few years ago I used all blue lights. The next year I switched back to white.

Please click on the pictures to enlarge.

The Nativity is my very favorite. It sits in front of the addition to our home. The wreaths on the windows have gold ribbons.

This is the Nativity close up.

I love this star. I put red lights on the shrubs that we planted on the side and front of our house, red candle lights in the windows, and white lights every other place.

I've had the hanging star for years. I leave it up until the end of January.

The wheels on the buggy and the legs on the horse look like they are moving.

This is my Nativity flag. I've had it for years also.

The younger grandchildren really like these reindeer.

I bought these Christmas carolers at a craft show years ago.

The angel is new this year.

I hope that you enjoyed our Christmas decorations. One of our Christmas traditions is driving around town and looking at the lovely decorations. Of course, I'll take my camera. Tomorrow five our our grandchildren are in their Christmas programs at the elementary school. I love attending the programs. This weekend is the Festival of Trees, a food and craft show, and our granddaughter's piano recital. I have a lot of my baking done and hope to finish up on Sunday. The grandchildren are so caught up in the Christmas spirit that it is contagious.

Deb's Giveaway and Awards

2008-12-10T07:21:00.000-08:00

Today I received a package in the mail that was wrapped carefully so that the contents did not break. It was the lovely cottage package giveaway from Deb of Deb's Country Kisses .

Look at the lovely pieces. I love the colors and the style. I have the perfect place to display each piece after the holidays.

And to top it all off - two wonderful smelling sachets and lovely gold tissue paper.

Thank you Deb!

The Butterfly Award

Smiling Sallie presented the Butterfly Award to me. Sallie is responsible for Blue Monday which is a wonderful way to show your favorite blues and also to make new friends. Blue Monday is growing each week. Sallie also shares her love of reading with her blogger friends. Sallie, thank you for the award. I have already received it and am happy to receive it a second time.

I invite anyone that visits my blog to accept this award as a gift from me in the spirit of the season!

Marie Antoinette Award

Becky at Behind Blue Eyes presented me with the Marie Antoinette award.Real person, real award. Becky is very talented in many areas. I admire Becky for sharing her love of art and her own art as well as prose and poetry with her blogger friends.

I am happy to present this award to three blogger friends that I follow and consider Real.

Jeni of Down River Drive. I feel a kinship with Jeni because we are both from Pennsylvania and understand some things that only Pennsylvanians can understand.

Gloria at Happy to Be is just that - "Happy to Be." She has a real sense of what's important.

Nancy at Knitting Paths of Life and I share common bond. Nancy is a special, caring person.

And the Winner Is.............!

2008-12-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

The Winner

The winner of my 100th post giveaway is Sandi McBride of Holding Patterns.

Congratulations Sandi! Please e-mail your address to me and I'll have the package in the mail.

I'm sorry that this post is so brief. I had back to back meetings this afternoon and evening. Now it's count down to my 200th post. Thanks all my blogger friends for posting comments.

Blue Monday

2008-12-08T02:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Blue Monday!!

On one of our shopping excursions, Daughter Sheila and I stopped at a thrift shop. It was my first visit there and I really enjoyed looking at the lovely treasures. I looked at several things and decided upon two small vases. I saw a larger one that I really liked but decided to keep within my small budget (I'd already blown it) and purchase these two.

This is vase has a small fluted rim.

This vase is similar but the fluted rim is larger.

You can really see the difference when you look at the vases side by side. I love the blue glass which is just translucent to look like rays of sunlight are bouncing off of it.

Daughter Sheila told me that since I was done shopping I could take Granddaughter Mallory and Grandson Benton to the van. The children were really glad to retreat to the van and so was I. When Sheila returned from the shop, she handed me a bag and told me to look inside. I thought that she had bought something for herself that she wanted me to see. I peeled off the layers of newspapers until I got to this beautiful vase. It was the larger vase that I had really liked. Daughter Sheila had bought me the vase as a present. When I offered to pay her for it, Daughter Sheila said, "Mom, I just wanted you to have it. Please let me give you something." Needless to say we were both thrilled. I, because, I had received a present and she, because, she had given one. What a lovely day we had!

Sallie at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Each week there are more participants. Get a good start to the week. Visit Sallie to see the wide array of shades of blue. Thanks Sallie!!!

This is my 100th post. I can't believe that I made it to 100 already. I have met the most awesome people in the world in Blogland. All of you are wonderful and talented. The winner's name will be drawn at 12:00 noon. I printed all the comments so that I don't miss a name.

Another Shopping Trip

2008-12-07T02:00:00.000-08:00

Daughter Stephanie has probably been in every out of the way shop in Pennsylvania. We traveled to Amish country to visit some Amish shops and other shops along the way. The Amish frown upon photography so I didn't get any photos inside the three Amish shops that we visited. One of the shops sold hand made furniture. I have never seen such beautiful and well made desks, dining room furniture and bedroom furniture. The craftsmanship was remarkable.

This is the outside of a fabric shop. The Amish woman that waited on us was not at all friendly.

This is the lane that we were on to get to a small Amish shop that is almost like a thrift shop. I bought a beautiful cake plate from a very friendly Amish woman. We had been at this shop in the summer and the woman had three children with her. She explained then that they did not yet speak English as they were not in school. Notice the laundry hanging on the line.

There was a lot of buggy traffic. A clerk in a good will shop explained to us that the Amish had weddings on Tuesdays and Thursdays and there was probably a wedding.

Daughter Stephanie would not let me take a picture of her. This is the only shot that I could get. Doesn't she look like she's on a mission?

These photos were taken inside one of the little craft shops that we visited. I saw a small chest that I liked. We left the store and visited numerous other shops. Then we returned and I bought the chest. I'll show it to you on another post.

These are the wooden pieces that were outside. I really like the snowmen.

More snowmen.

Such a welcoming wreath.

I thought that the pineapple was unique.

This was in "The Olde Hatchery." The greenery is lovely.

Every nook and cranny spoke of Christmas

The aroma of Christmas was in the air. I bought a small center piece for my coffee table.

We stopped at a store that sold apples, jams, jellies, and honey; fabric shops; a book store; an Amish grocery store; several craft and thrift shops and...I'm probably missing something. I turned on the outside lights for the first time Saturday night. I brought boxes of decorations down from the attic and am working on decorating the inside of the house. For the first time in years I am not buying any new ornaments for the tree.

This is my 99th post. All my friends that submit comments between now and my 100th post are eligible for the drawing. The winner's name will be drawn on Monday, December 8. Each time you comment, an entry is made into the drawing. If you do not have a blog, please leave your e-mail address. I have the package wrapped and ready for an address label.

Butterfly Award

2008-12-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

Mama Bear presented the Butterfly Award to me. Her blog is Bears in Exile/Return Home. You'll enjoy her blog. Mama Bear's prose is entertaining. Her descriptions of events are fascinating. She has many clever ideas and a lovely family.

I am happy to select 10 more deserving people to receive the award. I chose Nancy, BJ, Kathy , Terrie , Ruthie, Donna Marie, CJ, Heidi, Briget, and Linnea .

The rules for this award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you

3. Nominate 10 other blogs

4. Add links to those blogs on yours

5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs

This is my 98th post. All my friends that submit comments between now and my 100th post are eligible for the drawing. The winner's name will be drawn on Monday, December 8. Each time you comment, an entry is made into the drawing. If you do not have a blog, please leave your e-mail address. I have the package wrapped and ready for an address label.

Sweet Comment Award and Addie's

2008-12-03T02:00:00.000-08:00

CJ of the Purple Diva's Diary presented the "Sweet" Comment Award" to me. Please pay her a visit. She's all decked out for the Holidays.

On Monday Daughter Sheila asked me to go with her while she ran a few errands. She especially wanted me to see a shop that I had never visited. The name of the shop is "Addie's" The name in itself is intriguing because our daughters called my mother "Addie." Over the years others picked up the nickname for Mom and she was known as "Addie" by almost everyone. We really enjoyed our visit to Addie's. When we arrived the owner was stocking the shelves. She is such a lovely woman. I wish that I would have asked her name. She really believes in the "green movement" as do I. Also, many of the things that are sold at the shop are made by local crafts persons. The owner gives each new customer a bar of goats' milk soap that she makes herself. I asked her if I could take some pictures. I will post more later.

The shop has a vast array of lovely things. Don't these look like real cupcakes?

There are angels, glassware, and figurines.

There is lovely jewelry.

The goblets are hand painted. I may splurge after the holidays and purchase four.

These are shelves of seasonings and mixes.

There are exquisite angels and sweet smelling tarts.

I love these rockers and the fresh smell of the handmade wreaths.

Daughter Sheila, Granddaughter Mallory, and I sat in front of the shop. The owner was nice enough to take our picture.

This is my 97th post. All my friends that submit comments between now and my 100th post are eligible for the drawing. Each time you comment, an entry is made into the drawing. If you do not have a blog, please leave your e-mail address.

Blue Christmas

2008-11-30T09:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Blue Monday!

Blue is my very favorite color. However, I don't think that I'd want an entirely blue Christmas tree

I do like blue Christmas baubles...

And blue glittery ornaments...

My favorite blue of the Christmas season is Elvis Presley's Blue Christmas. I was fortunate to buy this album at an auction. We have a CD/record player that is a replica of a vintage phonograph. I love to play this album on the record player. The music isn't today's quality - but it's beautiful. It brings back memories of Christmases gone by.

I’ll have a blue Christmas without you

I’ll be so blue just thinking about you

Decorations of red on a green Christmas tree

Won’t be the same dear, if you’re not here with me

And when the blue snowflakes start falling

That’s when those blue memories start calling

You’ll be doing alright with your Christmas of white

But I’ll have a blue Christmas

You’ll be doing alright with your Christmas of white

But I’ll have a blue, blue Christmas

Sallie at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ hosts Blue Monday. Each week there are more participants. Get a good start to the week. Visit Sallie to see the wide array of shades of blue. Thanks Sallie!!!

This is my 96th post. All my friends that submit comments between now and my 100th post are eligible for the drawing. Each time you comment, an entry is made into the drawing. If you do not have a blog, please leave your e-mail address.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

2008-11-30T02:00:00.000-08:00

"Linus, I just don't understand Christmas. Instead of feeling happy, I feel sort of let down."

I think that someone needs to shake some sense into me. I am usually an enthusiastic person. I love to bake, shop, decorate, and wrap during the Christmas season. This year I just can not seem to "get with the program." I am about two months behind where I usually am at this time of year. I have some gifts bought but haven't even started wrapping. I really need to finish up the shopping. Last evening I thought that I'd at least wrap the grand children's pajamas in tissue paper and put them into boxes. I could wrap them with wrapping paper later. I managed to put eight pairs of pajamas and one nightgown in boxes. I need to go up in the attic and see how many gift bags that I have from last year (now how hard is that?). Today Daughter Amber came to help with the outside lights. Thanks to her enthusiasm and hard work most of the lights are up. I won't be home most of tomorrow so I hope to finish the lights on Monday. These are a few of the gifts that need wrapped.

Girls Pajamas

Girl's Nightgown

Boys' Pajamas

Please don't forget to sign up for my 100th post give away. Your name will be submitted each time that you comment. If you don't have a blog, please leave your e-mail address. I will announce the winner on the day of my 100th blog.

100th Post Giveaway

2008-11-29T02:00:00.000-08:00

This post is my 94th post. Very soon I will be celebrating my 100th post and am doing a giveaway. The drawing will be made on the day of my 100th post.

A lovely dry flowered wreath made by Sue of Sue's Floral Art

I really think that this journal is lovely.

A Berry Wreath

Bath and Body Warm Vanilla Sugar Hand Sanitizer and a Wonderful Scented Sachet

An Amish Doll (the Amish do not have faces on their dolls)

A Wonderful Roller Skate Ornament (notice the bobbins for wheels)

All my friends that submit comments between now and my 100th post are eligible for the drawing. Each time you comment, an entry is made into the drawing. If you do not have a blog, please leave your e-mail address.

Our Grandchildren - Segment 8

2008-11-28T02:00:00.000-08:00

This is Seth. Seth is the 12 year old son of Jennifer and Rich and the brother of Michael. Seth is a sixth grade student. He is involved in Student Government and is an honor student.

Seth is very precise and serious. He loves to read and is very computer literate. When we were having problems operating our GPS, Seth showed us how it worked.

Seth is very active in sports. He plays baseball in the summer and football in the fall. He has been selected for All Star teams.

Thankful

2008-11-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

Traditional Thanksgiving Hymn

(A translation by Theodore Baker: 1851-1934)

We Gather Together
We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing;
He chastens and hastens his will to make known;
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing,
Sing praises to his name:
He forgets not his own.
Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Ordaining, maintaining his kingdom divine;
So from the beginning the fight we were winning;
Thou, Lord, wast at our side,
All glory be thine!
We all do extol thee, thou leader triumphant,
And pray that thou still our defender wilt be.
Let thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy name be ever praised!
O Lord, make us free!
Amen

I wish all of my blogger friends a wonderful Thanksgiving. I hope that you all are basking in the glow of family and friendship. Thanks to each of you for making me feel welcome.

Hugs,

Sweetie

Bloggy Goodness Award

2008-11-26T02:00:00.000-08:00

This wonderful award was given to me by Chris at http://chrisscorner-chris.blogspot.com/. Please visit Chris. She loves to travel and has had some great adventures. Her blog is all decked out for the holidays.

I am to pass this award on to six special friends.

Mama Bear http://bearsinexile.blogspot.com/. Mama Bear's blog is a wonderful combination of many topics. I love her writing - it is so elegant.

Nancy of http://knittingpathsoflife.blogspot.com/. Nancy and I share a common bond. Nancy is an artist in her own right.

Kathy at http://mimisgarden.blogspot.com/. Kathy's talent is shown in her art work. This month she is sharing things for which she is thankful.

Becky at http://bechindblueeyes.blogspot.com/. Becky provides thought provoking topics and shares some wonderful Greek recipes.

Terrie at http://terriedj.blogspot.com/. Terrie's blog has a beautiful new design. She recently wrote a wonderful tribute to her mother.

Pea of http://peascorner.blogspot.com. Meet Pea's beautiful new grand baby Lily. Pea also posted some delicious candy recipes.

I am quickly approaching my 100th post. I hope to post my giveaways at the end of the week.

Snowy Morning - Apple Dumplings

2008-11-23T02:00:00.000-08:00

There was a fresh layer of snow on the ground this morning when I woke up. It seemed like a good morning to make apple dumplings. A friend of Hubby's had given us a box of apples. They are a cross variety that he grows himself. Daughter Stephanie recently gave me an easy recipe for apple dumplings. Ingredients: container crescent rolls, apples peeled and cored, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup orange juice, 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Peel and core apples.
Put sugar, butter, orange juice, and cinnamon in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Add the vanilla.

Separate crescent rolls into 8 pieces of pastry.
Grease pan (I use cooking spray)
Wrap apple slices in individual crescent rolls and pour liquid mixture over it.
Bake 30 minutes. Hubby and I tried them warm. Delicious!!!

Our Grandchildren - Segment 7

2008-11-22T02:00:00.000-08:00

This is Joey. Joey is the 17 year old son of Michele and Joe. Joey is a junior in high school. He is an honor student. He works part-time at Hoss's Steak House to help with the expenses of his truck.

Joey is very quiet - which is kind of refreshing in our loud boisterous family. He is also very goal oriented.
Joey's hobby is racing. Every Saturday night from spring to fall, you'll find us at the speedway cheering Joey on. This evening we will be attending the annual track banquet where Joey will receive a trophy for being the track champ.

Box of Treasures

2008-11-21T02:00:00.000-08:00

I bought a box of vintage doilies and linens at the family estate sale. These are just a few of the things that were in the box. There are also several sets of napkins and tableclothes. I'll show you those later. I need to spend some time taking photos. Each of the dresser scarves had stains on them. I used my Mother's trick to remove the stains. I washed the dresser scarves by hand in cold water. Then I made a mixture of half Ivory dishwashing liquid and half color safe bleach. I put the mixure on the stain and rubbed it in with a toothbrush. I then hung the dresser scarves ourside on the clothe line. I checked them daily. By the fourth day outside on the clothesline, the stains had disappeared.

I really like these doilies but the color does not match anything in my house.

This dresser scarf was hand embroidered. The stitching is beautiful. This dresser scarf was also hand embroidered and the edges were hand crocheted. I really like the flowers. The trim is pink and white.

This dresser scarf is my favor. The crocheted edges are wide. The intricate embroidered pattern is a vase with flowers.

This is a closer shot of the embroidered vase.

I think that embroidery is almost a lost art. I seldom see people engaging in the craft. I embroidered years ago. I am so left handed that it is pathetic. My mother tried to teach me the basics. I know that I must have frustrated her. Finally, I bought a book for left handers. The book was really helpful.

A Request

2008-11-19T15:02:00.000-08:00

Please keep in your prayers the family of our good friend, Carol, who passed away after a long courageous battle with cancer. This was Carol's second bout with cancer. Carol leaves behind a husband, two daughters, a son, and three grand-sons. Also, Gladys, the mother of a very dear friend of ours passed away. Gladys was also a second time cancer patient. Gladys' husband, died when she was only 49. She leaves three daughters, a son, eight grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. Carol and Gladys were both very special. I know that both are looking down at us from heaven.

We are going to a viewing this evening, a funeral on Thursday, and a funeral on Friday.

Surprise Party

2008-11-18T02:00:00.001-08:00

Our granddaughter, Ashley, had a surprise birthday party for her husband, Justin, on Saturday evening. Justin has reached the quarter century mark. This was my first attempt with my new camera. I decided to forego the special effects until I become more familiar `with the basics. Erin did help me take the photo of Kellie with the special effects. Ashley did a great job of planning the party. She fell down the steps last week and tore a ligament. The baby is fine.

Ashley and Justin are expecting their second child, a girl, in February.

This is Brooke with Mason, Ashley and Justin's son.

Grandsons Dawson and Wade

Daughter Sheila holding g-grandson Jacob, Wade, and Payton

Kennedy, Brooke's friend, granddaughters Brooke and Payton

Granddaughter Payton

Granddaughter Mallory

Daughter Stephanie and granddaughter Kristen

Granddaughter Kellie - note the special effect with my new camera

Granddaughter Erin

Grandson Dustin and his sister Granddaughter Kellie

Grandsons Wade, Benton, and Dawson

Grandson Dawson

Granddaughters Brooke and Mallory, G-grandson Jacob, Brooke's friend Kennedy, Grandson Wade

Daughter Amber and Fiance Brian

Everyone had a great time. I wish that I would have taken more photos. I guess that I was too busy having fun to take photos!

Have you ever heard of a mayonnaise bowl?

2008-11-15T02:00:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, we had my in-laws' estate auction on October 5. After the auction, we had the opportunity to go through things that did not sell. We went through things deciding what someone could use and what to throw in the dumpster. My daughter, Michele, knowing that I love dishes, asked me if I wanted two little bowls - one had a ladle. I had no idea what kind of bowls they were but they were but they were pretty so I took them. I was especially curious about the bowl with the ladle. I have a good friend who frequents auctions and is familiar with antique and vintage glassware and dishes. I showed her the bowl with the ladle and asked if she knew what it was. She looked at the marking with a magnifying glass and saw that it said "Nippon. She said that she thought it was a mayonnaise bowl. I did a web search for "mayonnaise bowl." Can you imagine my surprise when I found the exact "Nippon hand painted mayonnaise bowl with matching ladle" and it sold for $85??!! I was so excited that I called Michele to tell her. She said that maybe the other bowl had a ladle and she didn't see it. I reassured her that it didn't matter.

Mayonnaise Bowl

Nippon Hand Painted Footed Mayonnaise Bowl with Ladle

I bought several other things at the auction including a box of vintage linens. Not all of it was salvageable and many were stained. I really worked at the stains and am happy that I was able to remove most. I'll post some of the linens next week. My sister and I are leaving bright and early today to go Christmas shopping. Then Cis and I and our Hubbies are going to a birthday party for our grandson-in-law. Have a great day. I'll catch up tomorrow.

Our Grandchildren - Segment 6

2008-11-14T02:00:00.000-08:00

This is Tyler. He is the 17 year old son of Stephanie and Darren. Tyler is a junior in high school. He wants to join the service when he graduates. Tyler is 6'2" tall and very physically fit. He loves to hunt and go four-wheeling both with his dad and with Pap. He also helps his Pap around the house. Last week he dug a ditch for a pole for our TV satellite.
Tyler's car is his pride and joy. He works after school and on weekends at a local hardware store so he can pay his car insurance. He is shown here with his little brother who loves to ride in Tyler's car with him.

Tyler's favorite activity is skateboarding. I think that skate boarders take a bad rap. Many people are not aware that it is a sport that requires skill. Some schools in wealthier districts have incorporated skateboarding into the curriculum. Our small town has no place for skateboarders. A group of interested residents have formed a committee to develop a skate park in our small town. We know that it won't be easy - but it is a worthwhile project.

My New Pressure Cooker!

2008-11-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

Since I was a child, I have had a terrible fear of pressure cookers. My grandmother used one frequently and I was not permitted in the kitchen while Gram was cooking with the pressure cooker. Over the years I never gave a pressure cooker a second thought. A few years ago my fifth daughter, Stephanie (aka Suzie Homemaker) bought a pressure cooker and gave it rave reviews. I was still apprehensive and ignored her pleas for me to buy a pressure cooker myself. Alas, two weeks ago Stephanie and I went shopping. We were at Sears looking for a Dutch oven for Stephanie when I saw that 8-quart Presto aluminum pressure cookers were on sale. Stephanie told me that I should buy it. I said, "No." We left Sears and shopped for hours throughout the mall. We had parked the car outside of Sears so we walked through Sears to leave the mall. As we were passing through the cooking section, something came over me. Suddently I had to have a pressure cooker. Of course, Stephanie cheered me on. I was so proud of myself when we got home and I showed Hubby the pressure cooker. He said, "Good" and went back to reading the paper. Every day for the next two weeks, Stephanie asked me if I tried the pressure cooker. I told her that I was afraid it would explode. She reassured me that the new pressure cookers are safe. Finally yesterday, two weeks and one day after I bought the pressure cooker, I used it. I made a delicious pot roast with potatoes and carrots. It took me less than an hour and it was delicious. Hubby gave it rave reviews. Today I told everyone with whom I had a conversation that I made a delicious meal with my pressure cooker. The reply was either, "Oh" or "I'm glad that it didn't rain today." Not one person asked me to share my experience. However, I know that my blogger friends are REALLY interested.

My Eight Quart Pressure Cooker

I read every word in the book that came with the pressure cooker. Pot Roast (I improvised upon the original recipe)
2 1/2 pound chuck roast
about 6 potatoes cut up
a few handfuls of baby carrots
2 small onions cut up
1 tablespoon cooking oil
2 cups of water
Salt, pepper, other preferred seasoning

Heat the cooking oil in the pressure cooker and brown the chuck roast.

Add the water. Put the lid on securely. Press pressure regulator on vent pipe and cook 25 minutes with pressure regulator rocking slowly. Cool cooker at once. Add carrots, potatoes, and spices. Press pressure regulator on vent pipe and cook an additional 20 minutes with pressure regulator rocking slowly. Remove from burner and cool cooker.

The roast was tender and delicious. The vegetables absorbed the juices from the roast. Hubby told me several times that we had a great meal. Also, I no longer fear the pressure cooker and am looking forward to using it frequently.

My next challenge - MASTERING MY NEW CAMERA!!!

Veterans' Day - November 11, 2008

2008-11-11T02:00:00.001-08:00

Veterans' Day

On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the men and women past and present who in defense of our freedom have bravely worn the uniform of the United States. These men and women in uniform have given of themselves so that we may be free. May God bless each and every one of these brave men and woman who unselfishly gave of themselves!!!

Christmas Shopping - At Last

2008-11-08T02:00:00.000-08:00

I was so concerned because I hadn't even started Christmas shopping. Usually at this time of year most of my presents are bought and wrapped. Stephanie took pity on me and spent a day helping me select some Christmas presents. Our major purchases were slippers and nightgowns and pajamas. These are some of the slippers that I purchased and I think that they are awesome. We bought nightgowns and pajamas first and bought the slippers to match them. I'll post the nightgowns and pajamas another day.

Stephanie and I really had a good time. We bought most of the slippers and nightgowns and pajamas at Kohl's. We also purchased a few Hanna Montana toys there. Then we were to the Logan Valley Mall and went to several stores there. We spent the entire day shopping. Now I really need to start wrapping.

Also, I am thinking of the prizes that I will award for my 100th post which will be in the next month or so. I've purchased a few things. I'll keep you updated on that.

We are going to Seth's birthday party today. I'm hoping that we have time to stop at Circuit City to look at cameras. I want a camera that provides special color effects. Our daughter, Michele, has a great one - but she paid a great price also.
I hope that everyone is having a great weekend.

Friday Fill Ins

2008-11-07T02:00:00.000-08:00

You can find Friday Fill-Ins here

1. My blueprint for success includes Live, Laugh, Love.

2. Jelly filled mints was the last candy I ate.

3. The best facial moisturizer I've ever used is Estee Lauder.

4. Walking can be good therapy.

5. I'd like to tell you about my daughters and grandchildren.

6. Compassion is my strongest characteristic.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting my nails done, tomorrow my plans include going to my grandson's birthday party and Sunday, I want to go to church and use my pressure cooker for the first time!

Our Grandchildren - Segment 5

2008-11-06T02:00:00.000-08:00

This is Kellie. Kellie is Sherry's daughter. She is shown here in her car. She worked at a supermarket during high school to help cover her car expenses.

Kellie graduated this year. While Kellie was in high school, she was active in cheer leading, student government, and many other activities. She was also on the honors list. She is a freshman at Shippensburg University and is majoring in finance.

Kellie is a beauty. She was Miss Homecoming and Miss Fire Queen. She is as nice as she is beautiful. She always has a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone. She is very outgoing. Kellie is very close to her brother and her sisters.

Bloomin' Tuesday

2008-11-04T02:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Bloomin' Tuesday

Our weekend trip to Williamsburg, Virginia was wonderful. Upon our arrival we had dinner at Captain George's Seafood Restaurant. This is the entrance with the lovely fall leaf wreaths on the doors.
This display of pumpkins was outside the restaurant.

On Saturday morning my sister, Cis, and I took a walk. Our hubbies chose to sit it out. It was wonderful seeing the people dressed as in colonial times. These are some of the living plant life that we saw. It's difficult to believe that just six hours away, at our homes in Pennsylvania, plant life is over until next spring.

These are beautiful miniature roses and ornamental grass.

The nasturtiums are lovely.

Pansies are the first plants that I plant in the spring. In Virginia they are hardy fall plants.

Cis and I think that this planter is filled with coleus.

Could these be holly berries? The leaves are larger than my holly bushes.

It was wonderful to get away for a few days. I only have one sister and she is my best friend. It's great that our husbands are friends and have so much in common. They are both nature lovers and enjoy hunting, fishing, and just being in the "wilds" of Pennsylvania.

Thank you, Jean of http://msgreenthumbjean.blogspot.com/ for hosting Bloomin' Tuesday. We're hoping that Bloomin' Tuesday will continue during the cooler months. Please visit Jean to see more beautiful blooms.

Blue Monday

2008-11-03T02:00:00.000-08:00

I live in beautiful central Pennsylvania and am a true fan of the Blue and White Nittany Lions.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Colors: Blue and White

We are Penn State!!

Happy Valley, USA
If God Isn't A Penn State Fan, Then Why Is The Sky Blue And White?

Penn State Football
Penn State has a large football following and attracts tens of thousands of visitors to its campus; the surrounding area is known as "Happy Valley" for tailgating and games on autumn Saturdays in Beaver Stadium. The stadium is the largest in the country with a seating capacity of over 107,282.

JoePA
Joseph Vincent Paterno, nicknamed JoePa, is the head coach of Pennsylvania State University's college football Pennsylvania State University's football team, a position he has held since 1966. Paterno, is one of four active coaches who have also been inducted in to the College Footgall Hall of Fame. Paterno holds the record for the most victories by a Division I FBS football coach. Paterno also has more bowl game wins and more FBS undefeated seasons than any other coach in college football history.

The Nittany Lion
Penn State - Blue and White

The Penn State Blue Band

The Penn State University Marching Blue Band, known generally as the Blue Band, is the marching band of Pennsylvania State University Founded in 1899, it is the largest recognized student organization at the University Park campus of Penn State, presently with over 300 active student members. The primary function of the Blue Band is in support of the Penn
State Nittany Lions football team, performing for all home football games at Beaver Stadium.

Penn State's Nittany Lions 2008 Season
Aug. 30
Coastal Carolina
W 66-10
Sep. 6
Oregon State
W 45-14
Sep. 13
at Syracuse
W 55-13
Sept. 20
Temple
W 45-3
Sep. 27
Illinois
W 38-24
Oct. 4
at Purdue
W 20-6
Oct. 11
at Wisconsin
W 48-7
Oct. 18
Michigan
W 46-17
Oct. 25
at Ohio State
W 13-6
Nov. 8
at Iowa
3:30pm
Nov. 15
Indiana
TBA
Nov. 22
Michigan State
TBA
Blue is my favorite color and each Monday I look forward to seeing so many beautiful blues. I'd like to thank Sallie at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ for hosting Blue Monday. Please visit Sallie and find your way to some wonderful Blue Monday posts

A Visit with Sue

2008-11-01T02:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I visited my friend Sue at her shop, Sue's Floral Art. She has an array of Christmas decorations and some other lovely creations. Sue really is an artist and can make a beautiful arrangement in minutes. I had my grandchildren, Brooke and Wade, with me. She let each select an ornament.

I thought that maybe a visit to Sue's would inspire me to start working on decorations. I had wanted to do my tree in a Victorian theme. I just can't seem to get motivated this year. Last week our daughter, Stephanie, spent a day shopping with me and helped me select slippers and pajamas for the younger grandchildren. I always get each a game or toy also. In fact, usually I have almost all of my shopping done at this time of year. I also bake dozens and dozens of cookies. I haven't even thought about those yet (until just now). I hope that I see so many beautiful things in Colonial Williamsburg that I come home rejuvenated.

This lovely fried flower arrangement is exquisite. The light next to it enhances the colors in the arrangement.

I collect snowmen and especially liked these snowman ornaments.

These three angels are a contrast to the bright flowers. I would never have thought they'd look so nice next to each other. Notice the weathered door and primitive chair.

More angels. Also, notice the snowman ornaments.

Another set of angels in front of a primitive crate.

I hope that you enjoyed seeing a few of the lovely things at Sue's Floral Art.