I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend, Mother's Day and all. I decided to keep the grandsons and ask my mother and mother in law over to grill . Along with them was a clan of 13 others. I did not stress, I played with the boys all mornin g. I had prepared before hand, Hubby grilled and I had even prepared the homemade Strawberry ice cream before hand. Speaking of Berries, I do believe we are into our last week of the picking. I do know they will not pick for you as of today. There is just not enough to pay to have them picked. It is sad but we have had such bad luck with the weather this year that they are just going to break even this year. The un-seasonable cool weather has been great but not for the farmers. Well, class tonight. I am looking forward to seeing all my buddies. And catching up. Have a wonderful week my friends.

I am a silly ,starstruck, caught in the hipe, girl.
Well, we had celebrities in Locust Fork yesterday. Yes, the sexist fat boys, the silver tongued ones, Shakespeare worst nightmare. The dueo of Rick and Bubba. Promoting their book- the expert guide of god country and anything else they could think of. Number one I enjoy them because they make me laugh, Number 2, they are Christians and they show it. Number 3, I have listened to them sooo long that they seem like family. Yes, I was there, Yes I bought a book, Yes I had all 4 sign it, and Yes I forgot my camera. AmI not a gobber? But as I walked up a friend was there and took picture of us and promised me some. We were standing outside talking and Rick and Bubba drove up walked up to us and just started talking, as they do best. I was star struck. My brother is not a fan, and kids me about being one. So before I went to see them I called him, left a message that said, I know you are standing in line waiting to see R&B, so save me a place in line , I will be right there.
Have a good Saturday!

Friday's Challenge-This weeks challenge will fit in with my class on Monday night. The title will be "U in ME". My page will be me and Mom, but you could do this layout about you and your child and title it "Me in You". Think about it. Come up with your own twist. We spend time with anyone and take on each other traits . As I grow older I see my mom in me. And I want to scrap this.
shameless plug---------------Class at Michael's Trussville - Monday night- 6 to 8.

I am aware that i am less than some people perfer me to be....
but most people are unaware that I am so much more than what they see.

I love junk, I can't even throw out trash. I might use it on a page. Even empty packages become embellishment for a page. Bidding on a box of junk has a whole new meaning to me. What kind of goodies will be in the bottom, where most people will toss out. I find something to use on a layout. I will have to post one soon. Scrapbooked all day, got 7 pages done. Yeah!!! I have really enjoyed this rainy day.

One of the perks of helping out at the Strawberry Patch is I have ladies that gives me recipes. Some are good , some are not. This one is worth passing along.

Butter a 9 x 13 inch pan
add sliced berries of any kind.
Cut the crust off bread and cut into 3 slices
place them on top of berries.
Use as many as it takes to cover top of berries,
In a mixing bowl
blend together,
2 eggs
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon flour
1 stick melted butter
vanilla
Mix well and pour over bread
Bake on 375 until brown.
This recipes claim to fame is------------Hubby went back for seconds. Hummmm

Okay, Get up on your soap box. This Friday's page challenge is "The way I see it". Pick a subject you feel strongly about and tell the world. It can be as menial as shopping cart left in the parking lot to political issues. Get on that soap box and let us see what you are made off, show the world you are not going to stand for it any more, you want to be heard, Roar Roar I am Woman hear me Roar!!!!! Let's hear it ladies.............

I've come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint – and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you. – Oprah Winfrey

Did you ever have a May Day celebration. When I was in 1st grade we had a May Day celebration at school. We had a May Pole and we had made flower rings to wear on our heads. We danced around the pole with it bright color ribbons. As I remember, it was so beautiful. I think there were lots of flowers and alot of color. And of course carnival type games and food for everyone to enjoy. Odd, I have not thought of this in years. Why do we not celebrate this day any more? And why did we celebrate it then?

Good Morning Everyone! It is a typical lazy, rainy, Sunday morning. I slept till 7 a.m and crawled out of bed to enjoy a cup of java and read e-mail. I am planning on scrapbooking for a while this morning and have a second cup of coffee. This leisure morning is rare for me lately. And I am going to enjoy every minute of it. Got the okay for the scrapbook event for charity. Every spare moment has been used to try and plan the crop in July. Alot of fun stuff will happen. This layout is a challenge page. A dear friend gave me this office type forms and ask if I could do something with it. What do you think? Got back 5 rolls of film yesterday, so I am chomping at the bit to get started. Enjoy your rainy day.

Challenge #4......This is a deep one girls.
There was a movie ( don't ask me why I am thinking about it) in the 80's , I think .
Named "Trip to Bountiful" starring Geraldine Page. A lovely movie of a dying woman wanting to go home, to a community named Bountiful, for one last time. Her trip brought back memories of a childhood, as a teen and young women. The good with the bad. As she found the dilapidated house , she was at peace. She was home. So where is your " BOUNTIFUL". Tell a story of where or when you feel at peace. And if you have not seen this movie, grab the tissues and curl up on the sofa for a good sweet movie.

challenge #3- check check
I really did not/ could not put into words what I want to express with this one. I believe I am brain dead tired. I will have to redo later.
I wrote....
We use time to measure the past, present and future.
Time is always changing...ect

This is my " lid" tree. And "No" I am not crazy. I like unique things. I live in the country and off the road. I like it and my next one will be a bottle tree. Got 2 new lids last night at auction. I just had to share. Happy Sunday Everyone.

Friday challenge- Time!
This is such a wide subject.
How will each of you scrap this, will be fun to see.
Time has flown,
Time is a enemy
Time to do.........
Or no time.......
I can't wait on the amount of time it will take to see your layouts.

Happy Earth Day!

This is / was in my yard this year. I love to see this start to bloom, it means "Spring" to me.

Read this on A blog, just wanted to pass it along.
Leo Buscaglia : The majority of us lead quiet, unheralded lives as we pass through this world. There will most likely be no ticker-tape parades for us, no monuments created in our honor. But that does not lessen our possible impact, for there are scores of people waiting for someone just like us to come along; people who will appreciate our compassion, our unique talents. Someone who will live a happier life merely because we took the time to share what we had to give. Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have a potential to turn a life around. It's overwhelming to consider the continuous opportunities there are to make our love felt.

Second Challenge- Oh this one was easy for me. And I think I like it more than the first. You don't always have to use a picture. I wanted to get my point across so I journaled. I needed a splash of color so, the ribbon to remind me of something I know I forgot.........now what was that????????

My first challange- Ladies, How did you do? I love Coffee ice cream! At this time, I may say, because I just love ice cream. And I think the reason I like this kind so much is that no one else does and so it is all mine. I don't have to share.

Okay ladies, here is you Friday challenge. Your hands ! Tell me about them, show me, so that I know you from your hands. This will be a wonderful scrapbook page. Can't wait to see your ideas. Happy Friday !!!

I have a secret!
It might have something to do with a weekend crop, to benefit sick children.
It might be at the Springville Retreat House.
It might $ 125.00
You might get a free T-shirt and goodie bag
You might be asked to pose for a free group photo
You might be eligible to win a door prize valued at over $100.00
You might be offered 2 free classes
You may have availability to an on-site scrapbooking store
Or not!
Details to follow soon , I hope.

O.K Ladies, Let's try something different. I want to challenge you to create a scrapbook page. Not just any page but a special one about your favorites. This weekend, let's create a page about your favorite ice cream. Do you have a favorite or do you love them all. With summer approaching faster and faster, we will be pulling out the ice cream freezer and/ or buying more ice cream. Although we eat more ice cream in the winter and then cover up with a blanket, freezing to death. Go figure. My favorite has changed in the last few years and I need to scrapbook this. So this is your challenge. My favorite ice cream flavor is.........

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me.'" { Erma Bombeck }

Have a good safe weekend everyone!!

Exhaustion set in today and I was in my gown until 2 p.m. The last few weeks have been packed with commitments. I woke up at 6 a.m but went back to sleep. And it seems I am sooo busy I can not go away with my husband for a weekend , until June. We thought we had a free week end but as it turned out, Easter Sunday. Back to work tomorrow * Just wanted to let you know I am still alive and kicking, just not blogging.

My baby turned 27 yesterday. And it went by, very quite. I think she has inherited the " It is my birthday and I want it this way or I am going to cry" attitude. I went and got the boys so she could have a night alone and have her pitty party. I know this will not make her feel any better. Let's just say I know first hand. The things I have handed down to my daughter, god forgive me.
The boys on the other hand, the baby would not get out of my arms the whole time I was at the house. He was going to make sure I was not leaving him , this time. But when we got home and all situated he cried and wined for the longest time. I told him, if he did not stop I was going to trade him in on a baby that did not wine so much. Malik did not like this, he is such the protector. He would hold him when he cried and try to make it all better. He would even stop eating dinner and go get him something. I tried to tell him that I would get it, but he went on. He got out of bed last night when the baby cried to tell me he was crying. He just doesn't want him to cry. Well, I have news for you, this child is going to be a crying one. Gotta love em.
Happy Tuesday!

I feel like there are not words to describe how much this little man means to me. He has brought joy into my life. He knows how to work me, and get what he wants. And I let him. It makes us both feel good.

Artist?
So who is a life artist? Do you take photos of your family, yourself, your environment, your world? Do you tell stories? Do you bring them all together onto paper, into your computer, onto a canvas (or some other cool concoction)? Do you create art journals with all kinds of wonderfully interesting pieces of your life and thoughts and emotions? Do you celebrate your life through your art? ( from blog: Ali Edwards)
I can't say I am a artist, I do not create beautiful paintings, play a instrument, sculpt , or write outstanding novels. But.... the way Ali puts it, maybe. I am telling a story, sometimes in pictures, many of you know I hate to journal. And want the page to tell the story.
Just food for thought.........

Watching over me, is this little angel in my back yard. This sweet little, thumb sucking angel was bought over 13 years ago. And he has been sitting on this rock in my little fish pond watching over me and my family. He freezes in the winter , thaws in the spring, endures the Alabama heat and the falling of leaves. I know this is way out there but I see him today as a symbol of my faith. Sometimes I freeze up, thaw, rejoice in Spring and fall again. I guess you can see faith or the lack of it, in almost everything. As I am trying to slow down and remember why I am here and the reason I have what I have. This little angel is always there and all I have to do is welcome him.

Date Night-
Dinner and a Movie-
Candlelight-soft Music-
Looking into each others eyes-
Stolen kisses-
looks across the table-
hand holding-
opening car doors
and then.......
Get real,
We went to a loud Mexican Restaurant
on Friday night
with 200 other people-
by Michaels to pick up paper-
and then Lowes-
had a list a mile long-
paint for the kitchen ( check)
2 by 4 for an idea ( check)
filters for house and shop ( check- check)
being alone- together.......Priceless - Our Date Night!

Go Taylor, Go Taylor
You got the moves,
Got the moves.

CROCS- GOTTA LOVE EM
SOOO GREAT AND A GIFT FROM MY BESTEST BUDDY!
HAPPY THURSDAY!

My candle burns at both endsIt will not last the night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends
-It gives a lovely light!
- Edna St. Vincent Millay

What inspires you?
What gives you the inspiration to create another page?
I find things,
Things that you would not always add to a scrapbook.
Today I found pink elastic, from an estate sale box.
Stay tuned ........

Just got the word, that I will have a class on a page like this. At 4 peas retreat in April. I will "tweak" it a bit but I just love this look. All the doodling is fresh and free. I will post the "TWEAK" page in a week or two. Auction last night, late getting home, sale at shop today, auction on Saturday , Sunday I will rest, if possible. Don't you just love it!

Have a Wonderful day!

Happy March!
I awoke to the sound of chirping birds this morning.
Today I had the doors open at the store.
I wanted to be out and about, I guess this is called early spring fever.
Flowers are trying to bloom and I am ready.
The fresh smell of newly cut glass ,
I love this smell !
Can't wait for all the flowers and warmer days.
How did you spend your day ?

Prayer Request
I am asking for your prayers. A young man( 25 or so) is being rushed to the eye foundation as I write this request. He was playing around with a pair of pliers , and you know what Mother would say " Stop, you will poke your eye out" . I don't have all the details. The family has been under great stress this year. And there is not a end in sight. His name is Jason and please remember him and his family in your prayers.

Rain Rain go away and come another day.
Was the perfect day for a nap ...
Was the perfect day to Antique shop ...
Was the perfect day to watch T.V ,
Curled up on the sofa ...
It was the perfect day for egg sandwiches for supper...
Was the perfect night to turn in early.
How did you spend your "rainy Saturday"?

You know how I love finding the most unusual items at Auction. Well, here is my latest. I was the winning bidder of 3 saleman samples from a hosiery company named Cinderella. These booklets are from 1940, 38 and 37. I just love them. The booklet are in the best of shape and only a few flaws. On one of the books someone has put yes and a check by the colors they preferred. I don't know what I will do with these. I put the oldest on e-bay ( 1940) and I want to keep this one.

Ironic- one of the ladies that has a booth in the shop brought in a signed letter from Nancy Reagan today....

"My fellow Americans. I'm pleased to announce that I've signed legislation outlawing the Soviet Union. We begin bombing in five minutes." –joking during a mike check before his Saturday radio broadcast

( He was on my mind, he was pretty funny too.)

Okay , I have been dragged in kicking and screaming again. There is a Alabama boy! I turned on "American Idol" on Tuesday night and the girls were singing. I played with the grandchildren, did a little surfing on the internet, cleaned up the kitchen and it was over. Last night I was glued to the T.V. The guy were great. Not all of them , by all means. But from rockers to show tunes. I loved it. I had not seen any of the finals, that does not thrill me, get rid of the jokes and lets get down to the good stuff. If you watched did you see the "eye candy". There are some cuteies. After looking at the Alabama guy ( sorry his name has left me) I was afraid he was going to be a joke and he was not voted off in respect for Bo and Ruben. But he was a total surprise. I liked him. Simon was in rare form last night, I get tired of all the bickering with Paula. So you know where I will be tonight. Results Night! I always get pulled in when there is a Alabama contestant.

No one has ever measured how much the heart can hold. – Zelda Fitzgerald

Do you like being alone? I have been alone for a few nights now, hubby has been working late. And for a night or two it is great. I come home cook or not cook, I take a long bath, read,scrapbook,or do nothing. But after the first night I really get to miss him and the company. Last night, I watched T.V for awhile, gathered crop ideas, packed up a box I needed to mail, made a few phone calls, took the trash out, fixed dinner, was sooo lonely. I don't like Wednesday night T.V, so I sat and done nothing. I guess I just need to be doing something or talking to someone. I could just talk and pretend there was someone in the house." HOW WAS YOU DAY? I HAD A WONDERFUL DAY AND LET ME TELL YOU ALL ABOUT IT!!" until I have unexpected company. And they lock me up and throw away the key. Oh , well tonight I have a auction, tomorrow crop and hubby better be home on Saturday........Happy Thursday
*****************

Twyla Tharp : Creativity is more about taking the facts, fictions, and feelings we store away and finding new ways to connect them. What we're talking about here is metaphor. Metaphor is the lifeblood of all art, if it is not art itself. Metaphor is our vocabulary for connecting what we are experiencing now with what we have experienced before. It's not only how we express what we remember , it's how we interpret it - for ourselves and others.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY EVERYONE!

I really hope this day will be a special one. I heard on the news this morning that 15% of women send themselves flowers on Valentines Day. I don't see anything wrong with this. Make it a HAPPY day! No matter what you have to do. This is the day of LOVE and we all love our self . Be happy! Have a Great day!

Silent Auction was last night and ( drum roll, please!!) My cherry Bucket made $45.00. And my Baby girl Scrapbook got $80.00. We had a outstanding time and made a lot of money for the hospital children. I love being able to help these children. This may become a one of the biggest events of our year. Although it had snowed off and on all afternoon, the people came. The food was wonderful , company was great, and it was all to benefit these precious children. God is good. Have a blessed Sunday.

It is Thursday and time for a poem!
Can you guess what this poem is about?
Can you tell I am having a Krispy Kreme attack.
I think everything you can think of, has had a poem written .
Happy Thursday!


YUM! The sweet taste of chocolate seemed near,Combined with sugary fat'ning dough,The aroma making your nostrils sear. You completed the last left turn and whoa,The thought of creamy donuts consumed you. Not looking at the close curb in the road,You slam the right pedal, the wrong thing to do.Supposed to be parking, instead you mowedA huge hole in the front of Krispy Kreme,Right through the glass front doors and windows.Good job, Grandma, we make a great ol' team,But there's no way I could follow my noseTo those long johns any faster than you!

Okay, here is my version of the "Cherry Bucket" for the Auction. I think it turned out pretty nice. There is no way you can see it all. There is Rubbermaid bowls with red lids, dish towels, red spoon rest, wooden spoons, rolling pin with red handle, note cards with cherries, measuring cups and spoons ( red), red handled steak knifes, red Bing cherries, cherry candle, well, let's see did I forget anything........ Oh, you just need to come on down and see it. And maybe try your luck at bidding on it. After all it all goes to help the children at the hospital. Let's just say it is loaded full with goodies. I hope I get a good price for it. As I was unpacking a box lot I had gotten at the Auction this weekend, I found a cross stiched piece with cherries. Just one more goodie to add. Happy Wednesday!

I completed a whole album in 2 hours. Needed a new album for the "Class Preview" at Michaels today. I wasn't going to be able to be there ( I have a job now). So they ask for a album to show when asked about scrapbooking. Do you know I have been sooo busy that I did not have a new album. I had a few pages but not enough for an album. So I had pics ( A whole roll) of grandson #1 turning cart wheels in the yard. Perfect, I had one of the precut deals, with paper 8x8, tags and corner, perfect, gathered a few embellishments and 2 hours later, BINGO, I have a completed album......I still need to add journaling. But it is done..... Took it to the store and made it home just as it started to rain last night. So if you are in the neighborhood today, stop by and check it out.

Could this be what we think about Scrap booking? Think about it.

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for. Georgia O'Keeffe

www.jennibowlin.com Check out this new monthly kits you can get. I like her look but have committed to a kit already lately. So do I ? ..............Or not? Thinking...Thinking.....Thinking......Thinking..... I think I need to think on it over the weekend.

As I reported Last week I have gotten a few pages done lately . I am now working on a new style to " All bundled up". Different than the one for Michael's class. But the same name. Kinda space-ie today, can't get a firm thought in my head this morning. This menopause stuff is for the birds. Have an appointment next week. Hubby is glad too. Seem to be really emotional all the time now. Cried at Reba's old song "Fancy" recently. I have heard it thousands of times and not really a favorite but on this day I booo hoooed.( Alot) Enough about that...

Have a god day!

To make you laugh!!!

Happy Tuesday

There's nothing secret about it. Everyone knows that I am waiting for my real parents, the king and queen, to come restore me to my rightful throne. Meg Cabot

Thank goodness for Monday's! I went to Jasper scrapbook store this morning. I got the Buzz, the inspiration to create. I promise New pages are coming soon. Got to get back to it!

It is the weekend!!!! Yeah!!!! I have no plans for tomorrow, so I hope I will have time to scrapbook a little. It is soooo exciting. I have taken some things to the store to work on and I still have not completed any. I , once again promised to donate a few things to our Silent Auction Feb. 11th. One scrapbook , maybe 2, a recipe box or book, and a bucket I had sorta scraplifted off of another blog. ( I thought it was such a good idea) And I have had no time what so ever to complete them. I decided to do a recipe box ( metal lunch box) , I have the inserts 1/2 way done, I have 2 scrapbooks started- Christmas one and a Baby girl. The girl one needs 2 pages and the Christmas needs about 8. Time Time Time it is so fast at times. I work best under pressure , so lets see if I can make my deadline. This is Shabby Miss Jenn bucket and when I get my done I will have a picture to post. But is it not shabby- lish.

Bicker ( bik'er) intr,v. ered, ering,-ers. 1. To engage in a petty, bad-tempered quarrel; squabble.

This describes my parents. How can you work hard all your life , raise a family all the while working toward retirement. Putting your family first so that one day there will be time for each other. A time when you can enjoy each other, relax and have fun. I don't remember a lot of fights when I was a child. Just the usual things. But my goodness I feel so uncomfortable being around them now, they bicker all the time. I hope now, that I am seeing this , that we will find a way to prevent it. I want Terry and I to be home alone, together but I know we will also have our own hobbies ( apart) . Retirement to me is a reward. You have worked , saved, raised a family, bought a home, put things off until you retire. Enjoy this time, don't bicker , get out and enjoy. Mom came by the store yesterday and this has been on my mind for awhile now. I just had to put it out there.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Eleanor Roosevelt

I miss your face!

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller

Shhhhhhh Do you hear that? Nothing, no cartoons, no nanny will you... no baby crying, nothing. This is my first morning with no one here but me. Hubby has gone to work and I have the house to myself. Daughter and the grandsons moved out, well almost. There rooms are still piled high, but It is going soon too. Last night was wonderful and hubby was so agreeable with all that I wanted and needed. But face it most men are. It was nice. I love my hubby and my quite house. Now if the House cleaning fairy would come by while I was out today it would be perfect. Yeah, dream on!!!!Today is my day off and it is yucky out, but I am still going to the Thrift stores. I love the thrill of the hunt. It is also my dad's birthday. 69 years old. ***Happy Birthday Daddy!!! *** So it will be a busy day. But my house is quite.........

Friendship with ones self is all important, because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world. Eleanor Roosevelt

I see the end...
Through the boxes and baby walkers, toys and furniture all the stuff daughter moved into our house when she moved back home , only for a few weeks may I add. Dear Daughter has gotten a house, and has been working every night trying to clean it and get it ready to move in. I am getting excited to have my house and hubby back. And the alone time, we need. And the quite time, I am sure it will get too quite in a few weeks or months. But hey, they are only moving 5 miles away. I can go get those precious babies, and play with them and then take 'em home..... Happy Friday .

Now, I say to you today my friends, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: - 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.'
Martin Luther King Jr.,

No matter what our belief's we all have a dream, that American dream. We all want to be created equal and have opportunity to advance. To, feel wanted and loved. To feel excepted and equal. Yesterday I hope we all thought about that speech and what it meant to you. Have a wonderful day!

I know I am a bad blogger, but the store opens tomorrow and I have a list of things I need to do today. I slept late and now I am just trying to swallow a few sips of coffee. I will write more tomorrow or Wednesday. Have a good week yall!!!!

The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in. –James Baldwin

Just had to post this: Grandson #1 will soon be 8, in 40 days. So he is already thinking about what kind of party he is going to have and the present he wants. Well, for Years he has wanted to go to Chucky Cheese for his birthday and I told him that it had burnt down. He was young and he believed me. I would rather have 25 screaming children at my house than go to" yucky cheese". Well, last week his mother drove by and he saw that it had not burnt down. He did not say a word about it until today. He has ask for a 4-wheeler for his birthday. I told him it was too expensive and what made him think he was getting a 4 -wheeler. He said " Because you love me and you lied about Chucky Cheese". So what is a Nanny to do?
Any advice......Anyone......Anyone.........Guess I better check on the price of 4-wheelers.

It is Sunday morning ,(EARLY) No one is up but me, No t.v, no noise at all but the tapping of the keys on the computer. I like it. But it won't last for long. Soon all will be up . And the noise will fill the house. So I wanted to get in a quick message before this happens. Hubby has been off work all week, and with all that has gone on we have not had a minute for each other. Grandson #1 just went back to school on Thursday. I just got my tree down yesterday. It is still in the Den, but down and in a box. And Daughter took it down. Thanks Jess!!! Busy! Busy! Busy! You know these " A day in my Life" scrapbook pages. I think lately mine would be more than a 2 page spread. I think things will slow down in a few weeks, or I hope so.

Opening Soon

Dry Creek Antiques

________________________

Located in Cleveland Alabama

In the old Drug Store Building

Have I lost my mind? ( Please keep all comments to yourself) It is a done deal. I am opening the store. Sometime in January. I am shooting for January 17th as my opening day. We worked all day on adding peg board to 2 wall on the building and it looks really good. Tomorrow I am going to try to clean the carpet. And them the fun stuff starts, all the decorating. Please keep me in your prayers......

1. 
   
   Have you seen these new Purses? I got this one for a Birthday present. I LOVE IT!!!!!! I think everyone needs one of these. I will always love this picture of us. We had way too much fun that weekend. ( Girl's weekend) And the pictures seem to come back to haunt us. I have an idea for her birthday and it will have one of these pictures too.

Well, I know I am crazy but I have the opportunity to open a new business. And the crazy part is I am thinking about it. I have prayed about it and I have put it his ( Gods) hands. It will be a antique shop, and maybe a little scrapbooking on the side. The building I want is up for rent and has a perfect place for crops in the back. Say a little prayer for me.

I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to all of my friends and loved ones. I hope since you have taken the time to sit awhile and read blogs you are relaxing. Remember that Christmas will come whether or not the cream cheese icing was runny or hubby ate a lot of my eggs I had boiled to stuff. Take a breath and remember the relax. As much as possible.

3 Days till Christmas!!!! Well, I am going to make one last run to Walmart this morning. It is my week to get grocey's and there is nothing here to eat. I am dreading it so much. We have Christmas with Hubby family on Christmas eve lunch and My family Christmas night. So my daughter and grandsons want to eat here on Eve night. ( with left overs all Christmas day) So, I have menu in hand, last minute gift ideas and no desire to shop. Suck it up, be a adult, grow up, be a woman, stand tall, deal with it, you are a grown ass woman. No, that didn't help any. I guess it is the time of the season . I also pulled a mussel in my back and have a throat that feels like raw meat. Like I said tis the season. But don't you just love all the hipe.

9 days till Christmas !

Any idea what this is ? They are" Clackers". I use to play with these when I was a child. I got these in a box at Auction. I knew right away what they where. They are basically 2 large marbles hanging on a string. You swing them together so that you hear the clacking noise. It is possible to get them going sooo fast that they clack above the hand and below. I have them hanging in my studio . I vision of my childhood. The memories of hitting my self and my sibling in the head. My childhood was sooo much fun.... Take a few minutes to remember one toy you enjoyed as a child. Merry Christmas!

Bet you didn't know I have a small collection of stuffed Christmas bears. I love an old fashion Christmas. And these bears are part of that. I haven't bought one in quite a few years . Since I quit a full time job. More things are more important, like the newest scrapbooking tool or embellishment. Hope you are having a Beary Merry Christmas.

Hubby is out of town for a few days, and i am still not alone. House is full of people. Getting a little "cabin Fever" the cabin is way too full, kinda feeling. Need my house back. Considered leaving town my self but just want to stay home and won't intrude at Christmas time. So I need a project, hummmm what can I do? I am sure I will think of something. Have a wonderful weekend everyone............

A full morning of cropping ! Yeah! I worked a little on my Christmas cards. This layout of grandson #1. ( Girls dig scars) I worked on a little gift for a few friends and added a page in my Christmas journal. And painted angel wings for tomorrows class. I have really enjoyed this morning and now I am going to take a bath. Which is a big thing to me because I don't always get that much time alone to take a tub bath. Calgon is going to take me away and then I need to pick up grandson at school, run to Walmart and cook dinner and finish preparing for tomorrows class. Busy! Busy! but it makes the simple things like a bath so much sweeter. Bubbles here I come!

Don't you love the vintage look. I love finding these vintage Christmas cards. Life was so simple and slow paced in the 50's. Neighborhood Christmas parties or Cocktail parties. And the ladies dresses was so great, with matching gloves,hat and handbags. I just hope my comfortable jeans stay comfortable this season. Pass the goodies.......

Long day at Jasper store, Holiday extravaganza . Left home this morning at 8 am got home at 7 pm. On my feet most of the day. I think everyone enjoyed. It was dark when I started home and I had the Christmas tune filling up the car. I saw great lights coming home. Twinkle Twinkle , All the Christmas lights. We have noticed that even a shabby rotten shack of a house is beautiful with white lights. And I do admit I like the white twinkle lights. Twinkle Twinkle, I think I have the Christmas spirit. Twinkle Twinkle ,I am tired. Twinkle Twinkle, until later. Ho Ho Ho Merry Christmas!!! Twinkle Twinkle, I like typing that word. Twinkle Twinkle, heck I like saying it too.

Another busy day but a busy day at home. I mopped myself to the computer, so I am waiting for the floors to dry. I have washed 6 loads of clothes ( 3 loads of towels). (Who knew we had this many towels)cleaned my bedroom and hung up all the clothes I tried on yesterday getting ready, vacuumed, dusted the whole house , folded all the clothes, loaded the dish washer after cleaning out the fridge, priced and loaded 2 boxes of treasures that need to go to the Antique store, decorated a mini tree for the table top, now all I have is bathroom duty. I always leave it for last. And it is noon. Not bad! But I really need to get to those Christmas cards today. I haven't even started them. I know what I want to make, I really have several ideas floating in my head. We will see how they turn out. Well the floor is dry. Happy Tuesday everyone!

Busy Busy Busy! This is how I will describe the last few days at my house. And I love it! Because it means ' tis the Season. I enjoy Christmas but I have always dreamed of a T.V. Christmas. A story book Christmas with happy people and the smell of home made goodies, laughfter and merriment, Tall decorated tree's, twinkling lights, gifts all wrapped under the tree, Perfectly wrapped, Christmas Music playing in the back ground. Slap me back into reality and to the disfunctional family I have. But a girl can dream can't I? All I want for Christmas is a Norman Rockwell, Martha Stewart Christmas. Still Dreaming!!! I think I will dream for awhile and I will get back to you tomorrow........

One Thanksgiving Day many years ago, my mother was preparing dinner for the whole family. We had just recently moved to the country and was excited to share a meal with family in our new home. We had all worked hard to make everything just right. Mother had been up early cooking her heart out. She had mixed up the corn bread dressing and was going to take a quick shower before she finished up. My brother walked in and Mom told him not to forget to feed the hunting dogs. ( as she was running down the hallway to take her bath.) He asked if she had scraps and she told him there was some on the table. As you may have guessed. Brother had took out the pan of dressing and feed the dogs. We all chipped in and made more and no one knew what had happened but us. Today we had a wonderful lunch at mom's , and I always think about the Thanksgiving the whole family ( dogs included) had a fulfilling Thanksgiving meal.

Can you hear it?
The sound of air blowing out of my mouth, the sound of pure exhaustion. But this was a good tired. I went Christmas shopping yesterday. A productive day of shopping. I started and finished " my family's" gifts. I also got a few grandson gifts and daughters. I run out of time or I am sure I would have been further along with hubby family. As Martha would say it was a good day. I got all I needed for Thanksgiving dinner too. Never has a day of shopping went so well. I am thankful for a productive day of Christmas shopping. Now got to start cooking. Happy Thanksgiving all!

I layed in bed last night with my brain exploding with an idea. I could see it all too well and was so tired I waited until this morning to try my idea. I lost it, it did not work out and now I am trying to fix it. Sometimes when I have these page ideas, they just don't happen. I can try and try and nothing. So I layed it to the side which means I have given up on this page. I say I will go back to it and fix it, but it won't happen. I have already moved on to a CD case frame for a gift. It come together really well. I am pleased with it. So how has your week been? Productive or Just not Happen.

How was your Weekend?
Went on a Ladies Retreat Weekend. 25 to 40 women ,cabin on the lake. Falling leaves, cool nights, fire in the fire places,out to eat Friday night,good food, lots eating,birthday cake, napping, playing cards, walking, stayed up playing cards,watching movies, playing games, reading, talking , laughing, some watched football games, scavenger hunt,(our group won ) jello shooters, relaxing, sleeping, eating some more, up early in morning, coffee on the deck overlooking the lake, adult talk, phone only rang 3 time all weekend, not for me, baked sweet potatoes with butter, played more cards, talked a lot, slept by fire light, much needed rest,lots of fun. Came home took a nap.

Well. it is pretty close, I like it. It is really pink!

I love it!!!!

Even a Blind Hog finds a acorn sometimes!

Isn't this shabby and yummy looking. I found this through a blog and thought this was the most beautiful

wreath I have seen. I have collected vintage glass ornaments for years. And pick them up at the Thrift stores. So I plan on trying to make me one of these. And the colors are perfect. I started picking up pink items at all the auctions and I do not have a pink room in my house. Maybe I need to re-decorate a room. But not now after the Holidays will be soon enough.

BOO!

As you have read my Blog, I am sure you have realized I am certified. A certified " Raving Lunatic". On the edge at times and the only way I can work through it is to write it down , cry, cry some more and drive my dear hubby crazy. Most of the time after I write, it all seems better. But this is deep and the hurt won't go away. I DO want to forget the fact that I wrote this so people can read my rantings. And I am not going to grow old gracefully, I will be the one kicking and screaming all the way to the looney bin. And for the one who read my blog this week, I grabbed that glowing eyed birthday monster and chocked her to death, until her eyes bugged out of her head. I am sure she will re-coop by next year and deal me fits once again. It is part of growing old and the changing friendships. I am going out now and try to change my mood. So if you see a woman coming toward you with red eyes, birthday monster guts dripping from her finger tips, I would step away. Run in the opposite direction and don't look back.

Happy Birthday to Me !!! It is "MY" birthday and I will cry if I want to!!!!


Well, another year has passed with only two crying spells, yelling at my beloved hubby only a few times, and disappointment for 4 days, so far. It is over, my 45th birthday came with no party, no visitors, no trips to celebrate. I hear my self blubber but I can't stop. The glowing eyes of the birthday monster has reared her ugly head at my house. I think it is worse this year because I was expecting more. Forty-five is a milestone. I am always expecting more. I didn't want bands and banner. But I did expect more. As the days passed I thought friends would visit and celebrate, just any minute. But as reality set in, I sit here blubbering again. So make that 3 times , I have burst into tears. Hubby did stay home with me on my Birthday and we had a wonderful day. I love birthdays and I think everyone should celebrate a week long, we deserve it! I'm just a silly old women, another year older. If 45 can do this to me, I really want to warn all to run take cover cause 50 is next!!!! The year is 2005. Remember you have been warned!!!!

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.~ Oprah Winfrey

Oh, my goodness batman!!!! Candy! Candy! Candy! I gave in to the big green monster, and ate candy last night. Chocolate was my candy of choice. Reeses, Crunch, Baby Ruth, Bom Bom, and Halloween coin crunchy things, my! I haven't eaten this much in Years. I don't buy it because we don't have Treat or Treaters. ( we live too far off the road) I always pick up a bag of what my Hubby likes and Bubble gum just in case. But when Grandson #1 game in with a bag full and poured it all out in the floor, I was drawn to the Chocolate. It was calling my name......Jerri ....... Jerri...... Eat me! So I did! It really did not have to convince me!!!! I hope everyone had a save and Happy Halloween.

I have a creative block! This is happening alot to me. Sometimes I seem to not get pages done fast enough and then the next day I can't come up with a good looking page at all. So I have not forced it and I am taking a break. I have only sat in my room to be on the computer. I even got my new CK magazine this week. Oh, well on to another story. I picked Grandson #1 up from school today and i could tell he had been crying. His eyes was puffy and he was not smiling. So I ask and he would not say a word. I Knew he did not want everyone to see him cry. So as we pulled off he burst into tears and I got out of him that they gave out the prizes for the top sellers in the fundraising today. The one we had decided not to participate in because we had too much going on at this time. And it is not like they won't have more. He said they got balls and light up ink pens. It was not the big stuff he was upset about but the little junk. SO what was Nanny idea. Let's run by the store ( Dollar General) and you can pick out something that you want. He got a lighted pen and once again Nanny saved the afternoon.......Have a great weekend yall!

I can't believe it is Thursday already. This week has flown by and so has the year. I seen on line this morning that there is only 59 day until Christmas. I don't want to alarm anyone but have you started your shopping yet? I have one item on layaway. I had bought a few things but it is sooo hard not to go ahead and give them. So I am almost back to square one. Oh,well I am not going to stress this year. I believe I say this every year. But we all need to slow down and enjoy the season. Enjoy the fact that we have family, a home and friends to celebrate with. We have a tradition that my mom started long ago. We eat cake on Christmas morning. We celebrate Jesus Birthday. Don't you love traditions.

May all the joy of the season be yours.
may your neighbors respect you,
troubles neglect you,
the Angeles protect you,
and heaven accept you.

I have a class in Jasper tomorrow and today I got an e-mail that............are you ready? Starbucks has a new Pumpkin Spice Latte . I am soooo sad and predictable. I went to the web site to find a store locator. To see if there is a Starbucks in Jasper or on my way. I think I remember one on the left about 1/2 way up hwy 78. But I can't seem to find it on the store locator. But if there is you better believe this gal will be stopping for one tomorrow. YUMMMMMMMMMY!!!!!!

~Thursday Quote~
The Woman who works with her hands is only a laborer....
The Woman who works with her hands and her head is a crafts woman....
The Woman who works with her hands and her heart is an artist.
~unknown~

Do you have a favorite pair of jeans? Do they have holes in them? Are they new? Dark or light wash? Flared or bootcut? Are they like a old friend, they bring you comfort and joy . They sometimes hide the way you feel, sad and fat. They sometimes make you feel slimmer and happy. Oh, yeah that wonderful pair of jeans can be your best friend or your enemy. I have had lots of "FAVORITE" jeans over the years. Isn't it funny how we find comfort in a old, ragged, worn out pair of jeans. In this picture grandson #2 has his very first pair of jeans. They won't last long, he is growing so fast. But I guarantee he will find comfort in a ragged pair of jeans someday.

Quote Thursday

I have a notebook by my computer for these Quotes I run across on the internet. Some funny, some meaningful,some for inspiration. So from now on I want to share a Quote on Thursdays. Depending on my mood. This simply means that by Thursday I am brain dead and need all the inspiration I can get. Well here we go........

God usually speaks in a whisper.....Listen for it.

Look at this smile! This sweetheart can make me smile and make me cry at the drop of a hat. Friday night his mom brought him some french fries as a prize.( His favorite) He has been improving alot with his reading and had recieved an award this week. Well, he was sooooo happy , and I also love these F.F. I grabbed at him and said give me some, I was good this week too. He turned and ran right into the door facing trying to get away from me. He was laying on the floor screaming so fast, I just knew he had busted his head open. His mother grabbed him, paw paw grabbed him, and all I could do was cry. We seen ( or should I say they seen )that there was a big goose egg and no blood. I was so Thankful! But he would not have anything to do with me for quite awhile. It broke my heart. I am sure it will not be the last time either. He did come and hug my neck and tell me it was an accident. And all is well now. I do love this smile !

Buttons *Buttons* Buttons I have the Buttons. I love to collect. And this is one of my many collections. It all started when my aunt gave me a jar of buttons. And they were in a old blue jar. So I bid on buttons all the time and blue jars to put them in. They are lined up on my shelf in my studio. I even went as far as each jar has a different color. Pictures is dark but I love this look, Hey , I love Buttons!!!!!

I have been trying to upload this picture all last week with no luck. When I saw I could, I did. So this is my latest antique auction goodies. Several hundred books of matches, 200 swizzle sticks and this cute table. I got the table for only $10.00 . I love getting items to add to my pages.

Just a word of warning, this is a RANT!!!! I have a dysfunctional family. I am the oldest of four. Two boys two girls. Every once in a while I forget this fact and try to have a loving family get together. It has been awhile since we have had a family dinner so when I realized it was my nephews 13th birthday this week , I ask everyone to join us Sunday. We were to go out Sunday afternoon, to a restraunt I had been told about. First my Daughter said if your brothers are going to be there I am not going. She refused to go, but I could take grandson #1. ( that was sweet of her) I had go get my sister and the birthday boy because my sister at age 40 will not learn to drive( this is another rant). When I got there her face was swollen and she has a sinus infection. I could tell she was not going to be fun today. We all met at mom's except brother #2, just call him and he will meet us there. So we left, we had to go get French fries for grandson because he will not eat anything but....Mom ask my little brother his girl friend and her 2 children to ride with her and dad. That put 4 people in the back seat of a mid-size car. At one point ( I was told) Mom decided to pull her seat up to give them more room, and it went back instead, as the little boy had bent over to get something out of the floor board. Mom squished the child and he cried all the way to the restraunt. We all got there about the same time and as we headed in I realized it was buffet. ( I am not crazy about this) Mom got a waitress to seat us and she headed to the back. A room full of dirty tables stacked with plates, food on the floor, chairs turned over and one waiter trying to get control over it. The waitress walked off. We stood for over 15 minutes waiting. Another waitress came by and I ask her if she could help. She did and we had a nice dinner. The kids had a table to their self. ( right next to us) The 3 boys ticked off my niece. She cried and pouted. Which up set my brother and he was not happy when we left. So I ask grandson what was said , he said all she was talking about was her new friend and her cat, and so one of them called her silly and stupid, had a talk after we got home but My sister screamed at the birthday boy all the way home, in my car. Thank goodness it is over and I ask hubby to remind me next time I have another big idea about the perfect family dinner. My birthday is in a few weeks and I DO NOT WANT A FAMILY OUTING!!!!!!I think I will stay in bed with a blanket over my head.