Janet Happy Girl Has Happy Hook

Flowers...flowers....flowers

2010-05-20T06:22:00.004-04:00

This is from a free flyer I got at Michaels by Sugar and Cream. It is actually a crochet dishcloth. However, I put two back to back and added a loop at the top to make a potholder. I reversed the colors and made a second one. It is lime green and bright pink. This floral arrangement was made early early this a.m. I have difficulty sleeping sometimes and am up early (like this morning). I visited Michaels this week (actually went to see my sister who works there) and spent $95...oh my!!!! Bought the basket with the pretty rot iron handle in the middle and all the florals were purchased there also. In my niche

I made this arrangement for our Family Reunion that we had on April 10th.

So, this is my 100th post, wanted it to be really special...but it is what it is....Sorry I haven't posted in a while...maybe I can find new things and subjects to post more frequently...missed you guys!!!!

Do It Anyway

2010-03-27T11:57:00.003-04:00

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.

Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.

Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.

Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.

Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.

Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten.

Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.

Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God.

It was never between you and them anyway.

Mother Teresa

101 Small Daily Pleasures

2010-03-26T10:26:00.004-04:00

I saw this on another blog...and thought I would stop and try to do it... here we go:

1. Sitting on my back porch

2. Watching my 3 kitties playing

3: Watching the birds at the birdfeeder

4: Watching the bird build a nest in the birdhouse

5: Straightening up the house so it looks nice

6: Reading my Bible

7:Checking my email ; hoping for emails from loved ones

8: Checking my blog to see if there are any comments from friends from blogland

9: Enjoying a few cups of hot, black coffee

10: Checking the mail...snail mail

11: CROCHETING

12: Sewing...made a pillow yesterday

13: Watching HGTV...decorating and crafts shows

14: Watching Martha Stewart at 11a.m.

15: Doing my rubber stamp homework

16: Making get well cards for my friends who are having a difficult time.

17: Putting dinner in the slow cooker

18: Phone calls from my children

19: Phone calls and text messages from those I love

20: Lotion

21: Music...mostly gospel

22: Candles

23: Listening to the birds sing..including my lovebird..Penny

24: Speaking with God

25: Going to church

26: Pretty dishes

27: Collecting cat stuff

28: Looking at old photos

29: Curled up watching movies with my hubby

30: Search Engines

31: Posting on my blog

32: Reading my friends blogs

33: Rubber Stamp Club

34:Collecting bird stuff

35: Enjoying my back porch

36: decorating

37: Geneology

38: The Sunshine

39: Listening to the rain

40: Watching a loved ones face when I make them something

41: My entire family...

42: Peanut Butter and Grape Jelly Sandwiches

43: Iced Tea

44: Playing games with my husband

45: Shopping

46: Eating out (favorites: Mo's, Texas Roadhouse and Sweet Tomatoes)

47: Going on a "bargain" hunt

48: date night (which happens to be tonight )

49: did I mention CROCHETING?(Thought I'd mention it twice)

50: Hot Chocolate

51: Cashews

52: Curled up watching tv with two kitties sleeping beside me

53: Shopping with my favorite shopping buddy..my hubby

54: Getting my hair done

55: Soaking in the bath tub

56: Banana Pudding (my favorite dessert)

57: Cinnamon Rolls

58: God's little creatures

59: Cooking (finding new recipes)

60: A short roadtrip

61: Taking photos

62: Singing at church (I just rejoined the choir at church)

63: Singing when I am alone in the house at the top of my lungs while cleaning...(gospel music)

64: Counting my blessings

65: Gardening (have all potted plants now so I don't have to pull the weeds)

66: Watching my seedlings grow (have 4 o'clocks, babies breath, honeydew melons, and red poppies growing now)

67: Playing with my kitties wt the laser light

68: Visiting my son Micah when he comes to town

69: Seeing and visiting with the most precious sister and brother on earth

70: Talking with my friends on the phone

71: Visiting with my friends

72: Woodburning

73: Making DVD's with photos

74: Downloading my favorite gospel music onto CD's

75: Sharing

76: Kissing hubby when he comes home from work

77: Chocolate candy

78: Seeing my neices and nephew

79: Hugs

80: Smiles

81: Flowers (hubby brought me some tulips last weekend)

82:Yellow Roses

83: Antique Shops and Malls

84: Flower arranging

85: Target, Walmart and Hobby Lobby

86: Pretty lamps

87: naps

88: baking

89: canning (which I need to start doing again)

90: Being a hostess at an event (planning and executing)

91: Watching children play

92: Memories of my children when they were little

93: Revisiting yesterday

94: Listening to stories of other peoples lives

95: Holding a baby

96: Playing Sims (which I haven't done in a long time)

97: Crochet Swaps (only did one and loved it...wanna do another)

98: Laying my head down at the close of the day and crawling under the covers (with one foot hanging out of course)

99: Watching the sun go down

100: Having the warm, fluffy feeling in my heart

101: Peace in knowing that I need not worry about tomorrow...God is already there.

Well, I did it...would love to read yours.

Molly The Owl

2010-03-26T08:15:00.002-04:00

If anyone is interested there is a live feed of Molly the Owl. She has made a nest and laid 5 eggs in a wooden box on a mans property in California. Two of her 5 eggs has hatched. Her husband, McGee comes by and feeds her with mice. You can watch her 24 hrs a day. When she stands up you can see her babies and the eggs. It is so awesome. Thankyou Gail for sharing this with me yesterday. Molly is at:http://www.ustream.tv/theowlbox

Weekend Trip

2010-03-22T07:44:00.004-04:00

I went to see some long time friends in Winter Haven, Fl this past weekend. I left early Friday morning and got home late afternoon on Saturday. Pat and I have been good friends for over 20 yrs. I hope you enjoy the photos...

Friday, my good friends, Pat, Fay and I ate lunch at Lavender and Lace. It's a small tea house. This is what I ate...Fruit and Chicken Salad Plate...yummy After lunch we went to "The Barn." It's a huge antique, gift shop and tea room. There are 4 buildings in a row. Starting from left to right a garden shop (shown above) a gift shop ( next two photos), a tea room and an antique shop.

Beauty in the gift shop

ok drooling now....

Janet, Pat and Fay having coffee in the tea room at The Barn.

On Saturday, we went to a craft show in the city of Auburndale. The photo above is a gospel group name Royal City. These are friends of Pats. They are singing gospel music in the middle of town on the stage. It was beautiful. I bought a CD and listened to it all the way home.

And this is just a bonus...We saw this guy with his friend (couldn't get his friend in the photo) eating in a yard in the neighborhood...

Crocheted Bookmarkers

2010-03-17T09:40:00.002-04:00

These are some crocheted bookmarkers I've made in the past several weeks. Just thought I would share them with my crocheter friends....

I Love Birds

2010-03-12T08:41:00.003-05:00

These little birds were purchased at the Dollar Tree yesterday. I went there to buy loads of items to put my best friends son's care package. He is in Afghanistan. I came across these little birds and could not resist them. I have them on a table with my two new orchids (that need TLC) on my back porch.

I bought these little birds from Kohls a while back. They are on another table on the back porch. The orange place mats were purchased from Dollar Tree yesterday.

This little guy was purchased from one of my favorite stores yesterday (Country Charm). I wasn't really feeling very well but needed to get this package to the post office. So, while I was out I took a quick trip to this little shop. This little bird only cost me $5.00

Here is how the little table looks.

A little note: The birds finally found my bird feeder yesterday. At one point in the afternoon there was probably 12 or more trying to get to it. Also, a bird is making a nest in my birdhouse. Yesterday and this morning he has been flying back and forth with little twigs in it's mouth. I stopped counting all the trips he has been making. The birdhouse is kinda high so I can't see in it. I did try to take photos of him this morning but it's pretty cloudy out. Hopefully, I can get pictures another day when it's bright and sunny out.

Rubber Stamp Club Homework

2010-03-08T07:49:00.002-05:00

Our homework assignment was a birdhouse template. It was pretty small and the owner said the instructions were to rubber stamp it. We could change the size (larger or smaller) and do whatever we want with it as long as it was rubber stamped. I knew the night she assigned it (Feb meeting) that I wanted to make it 3D and use foam board.

I first stamped and colored the enter piece of foam board. Then I enlarged the birdhouse on my computer. Transferred it to my foam board and cut it out with my artist knife.

A friend/neighbor came over and liked it alot. But, I explained that the birdhouse seemed boring by itself. So, we came up with ideas to spruce it up. Thus, the entire scenery around it.

I even stold my birds bird seed and glued it in a medicine cap. I think it is hilarious that the scale is entirely off. The birds are smaller than their eggs, the cat (button) is smaller than the birds and he flower pots are huge in comparison.

This project was really fun.

New Screened In Porch

2010-02-27T18:32:00.004-05:00

These are the pictures I have so far of my new screened in back porch. This is a little close up of what is on the large table. Sister gave me the candles and I went to Hobby Lobby and bought everything they had with my favorite Bible verse on it...heehee This is on the small bistro set

....the small bistro set...the chairs swivel and rock

a two seater glider and floor lamp my sister gave me...

new plant hubby bought me today...and Stormy my kitty sitting on high top bistro chair.

This is the large table..has 6 chairs...and of course, baby kitty, Mini sitting in the swivel rocker..

I know it all still looks a little bare...but as the weather gets nicer I'll be able to put a few more plants out there and maybe it won't look so bare. As it is now we have seating for 12...

What's For Dinner?

2010-02-25T14:13:00.002-05:00

We are having Chicken Burritos and Tacos tonight Browning my flour tortillas in extra virgin olive oil

dumping...chopped chilis, canned tomatoes, southwesterns grilled chopped chicken, and celery

....and of course, the cheese soup.

mixing.....

placing mixture with salsa on tortilla

folding, topping with shredded cheddar cheese and bakinng at 350 degrees for 7 minutes.

....and of course the tacos: (making the shells)

chopping the maters....

forgot to show you cooking the hamburger mixture...(I use 94 percent fat free)...

Here is dinner...all ready to devour...only problem is

there are only two of us...guess we'll have left overs.

Would stay and chat...but I have tons of dishes to do...see ya!!!!

Surrounded by Artist

2010-02-25T09:03:00.002-05:00

I am surrounded by artist...and I love it. The painting above was given to me by my friend Fay Townsend. She painted and had this framed and gave it me. The above painting, as well as the next two, were painted by my neice, Angela. She gave me this for Christmas 2009. You will see that she is quite talented and I am priveleged to be the recipient of these. The 2nd painting (the kitties) was given to me for my birthday (2009) and the painting below was given to me at Christmas 2008. She loves her "auntie."

Come To Jesus by Point of Grace

2010-02-19T21:22:00.005-05:00

I heard these ladies sing this song tonight. The lyrics in this song reaches to each of us in some way or another...I feel that everyone can identify with some of these lyrics. I only wish everyone could listen to this song...http://popup.lala.com/popup/360569449464544106 -( you can hear a short clip of it here)

Come To Jesus

This is for the weary and the weak.

This is for the desperate and ashamed.

This is for the hopeless hiding in the shadowscuping hands around a flicker of faith.

This is for the one's who don't belong.

This is for the silent castaways.

This is for the sinner peeking through the stained glass from a sidewalk in the cold driving rain.

We all fall down.

We all need saving once in a while.

You are not alone.

We all lose faith and lean on mercy.

And through our darkest night,

He said He'd wait for us.

Just come to Jesus.

For anyone who's given up on God.

For those who tripped and fallen out of grace.

For anyone who's lookin to the bottom of a bottle

for the strength to make it through another day.

We all fall down.

We all need saving once in a while.

You are not alone.

We all lose faith and lean on mercy.

And through our darkest night,

He said He'd wait for us.

Just come to Jesus

Come to Jesus.

He did not come to raise the living

touch the eyes of those who see.

It was for the bitter and burned-out.

It was for the unforgiveable.

It was for the failure,

standing on the bridge,

because the guilt's too high a price to pay to live.

We all fall down.

We all need saving once in a while.

You are not alone.

We all lose faith and lean on mercy.

And through our darkest night

He said He'd wait for us.

Come to Jesus.

My Three Girls

2010-02-18T12:17:00.001-05:00

My sister gave me this tin... so...I decided to make a small photo album of my three kitties and tuck it inside. Here it is all opened up...with all my lovely babies inside....

Thank you sis.....

It's Angelas Birthday Today

2010-02-18T09:50:00.002-05:00

It's my neices birthday today. This photo was taken of she and I on my last birthday. Angela is an artist (with a degree and everything). She paints beautiful pictures. Just gave me an idea.....I need to post her paintings she has made for me on here...I have 3 of them. Happy birthday beautiful young lady....

This is a card and crocheted bookmark I made for her as part of her birthday gift. On the card I photo copied some fabric and this bookmark and built the card around it. Had to make an envelope too...

Whats this about???? grin

2010-02-17T17:40:00.002-05:00

I went in the bathroom this morning and this little kitty (Mini) was asleep in the sink bowl. I went to get my camera and she saw me and was getting up when I took this photo. What a little sweetie pie....

Our 22nd Wedding Anniversary

2010-02-16T10:46:00.002-05:00

This is the card I made for Roy in honor of our 22nd Wedding Anniversary which was on Valentines Day. I bought the romantic wedding paper from my favorite Rubber Stamp Store name A Small Cleverness.

This is the inside of the card. Notice the wedding rings suspended in the center. We had a wonderful anniversary which we celebrated the Saturday before Valentines Day. We went shopping and each bought new outfits, went to Peter Brooke chocolates and each bought chocolates (mine was the chocolate covered oreos and his was chocolate covered raisins). We went out to eat and I got new shoes and yellow roses....

p.s. I just love that man!!!!!

2010-02-11T09:48:00.002-05:00

I crocheted this Cross Bookmark this morning for my long time friend, Tami Ganey. I found out at church last night that she broke her ankle on both sides and will be having surgery. We have been friends for a long time and for the past ten years she never forgets to send me a card for my birthday.

I rarely work with bedspread thread because it wrecks havoc on my hands. But, as I was filling out a card for her this morning I decided to make this and put it inside the card.

Then, I thought I would share it with you.

Master Bath Redo

2010-02-09T08:31:00.004-05:00

Well, these photos are a disappointment and I almost didn't post them. I'm not sure why the wall color came out the way it did. I even tried enhancement and color correction...but the walls are actually a rich golden mustard color. Hopefully you'll get the idea though...

2010-02-08T21:44:00.003-05:00

Pennies

You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck, gifts from angels, etc.

This is the first time I've ever heard this twist on the story.

Gives you something to think about..

Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home.

My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend...

The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her house.

The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live.

The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants.

Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely..

As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband.

He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment.

Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him.

There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts

Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny.

He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure.

How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny?

Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?

Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her.

Finally, she could stand it no longer.

She casually mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.

A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see.

She had seen many pennies before!

What was the point of this?

'Look at it.' He said. 'Read what it says.'

She read the words ' United States of America '

'No, not that; read further.' 'One cent?' 'No, keep reading.' 'In God we Trust?'

'Yes!'

'And?'

'And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin..

Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription.

It is written on every single United States coin,

but we never seem to notice it!

God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him?

Who am I to pass it by?

When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment.

I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him..

For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold.

I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me.

Lucky for me , God is patient and pennies are plentiful!

When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk.

I stopped and picked it up,

and realized t hat I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change.]

I read the words, 'In God We Trust,' and had to laugh.

Yes, God, I get the message.

It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last few months,

but then, pennies are plentiful!

And, God is patient..

The best mathematical equation I have ever seen:

1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given

That's the whole gospel message simply stated.

Notice....

2010-02-02T13:34:00.001-05:00

Notice something in this picture that wasn't destroyed among the devastation in Haiti? This was sent to me from my friend Barbara today and I thought I would share it with you.

I Couldn't help It....

2010-02-01T19:00:00.003-05:00

I just couldn't help myself...I had to post this picture I found today. My sister is gonna crack up...there has been a long standing joke between us that EVERYTHING is always my fault...don't matter what it is or who did it or didn't do it...It's All My Fault. Always has been and always will be. Yepper, I'm the "fall guy"...so whenever you need to blame someone I give you permission...please pick me...please!!!

Keep Your Fork

2010-01-27T21:44:00.003-05:00

There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live.

So as she was getting her things "in order," she contacted her pastor and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes.

She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit she wanted to be buried in.

Everything was in order and the pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her.

"There's one more thing," she said excitedly."What's that?" came the pastor's reply.

"This is very important," the young woman continued.

"I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand.

"The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.

"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.

"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request" said the pastor.

The young woman explained.

"My grandmother once told me this story, and from there on out, I have always tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement.

'In all my years of attending church socials and potluck dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.'

It was my favorite part because I knew that something better was coming ...

like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie.

Something wonderful, and with substance!'

So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder

"What's with the fork?".

Then I want you to tell them: "

Keep your fork ... the best is yet to come." The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye.

He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death.

But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did.

She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge

She KNEW that something better was coming. At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand.

Over and over, the pastor heard the question,

"What's with the fork?"

And over and over he smiled.

During his message, the pastor told the people ofthe conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died.

He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her.

The pastor told the people how he could not stopthinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either.

He was right.

So the next time you reach down for your fork,let it remind you ever so gently,

that the best is yet to come.

Wanna See My Remodel????

2010-01-25T10:24:00.004-05:00

We now have a brand new screened in 12' x 24' back porch. Miss Meg (the kitty) saw me taking photos and decided that she had to be in this one. The porch is not finished on the inside yet.(new new indoor / outdoor carpet and more furniture). So, I decided to just take a photo of the new hightop bistro. When it is finished I will show you.

This is a photo of our new wood / laminate flooring in the dining room. We had it installed throughout the entire home (except where we put Italian Porcelan). Notice the new rug too. This is the new Italian Porcelan around the bathtub in the Master Bath.

more Italian Porcelan in the Master Bath

and we didn't forget the kitchen

This is the new wood / laminate flooring and new rug in the living room. Also, notice the new sconces we had installed in the niche.

Upclose of the new sconces in the niche in the Living Room

My brand new bedroom suite in the front bedroom. You can also see some of the new flooring in this photo. This furniture is made by Kathy Ireland and is made of Chestnut.

The media stand....still haven't bought my new flat screen...but that will come.

The dresser....

upclose of the headboard. I hope you enjoyed the tour....all of this took around 6 weeks of contractors being in the home non-stop...but well worth it.

Fathers Love Letter

2010-01-05T19:46:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKmdIdQg3Ks

This video is entitled "Fathers Love Letter." It is beautiful and thought I would like to share it with you, my friends.!

2010-01-05T19:18:00.004-05:00

Mother's Path Of Life

The young mother set her foot on the path of life. "Is this the long way?" she asked.

And the guide said:

"Yes, and the way is hard.

And you will be old before you reach the end of it.

But the end will be better than the beginning." But the young mother was happy,

and she would not believe that anything could be better than these years.

So she played with her children, and gathered flowers for them along the way,

and bathed them in the clear streams;

and the sun shone on them,

and the young Mother cried, "Nothing will ever be lovelier than this." Then the night came,

and the storm,

and the path was dark,

and the children shook with fear and cold,

and the mother drew them close and covered them with her mantle,

and the children said, "Mother, we are not afraid,

for you are near,

and no harm can come." And the morning came,

and there was a hill ahead, and the children climbed and grew weary,

and the mother was weary.

But at all times she said to the children,

"A little patience and we are there." So the children climbed,

and when they reached the top they said,

"Mother, we would not have done it without you."

And the mother,

when she lay down at night looked up at the stars and said, "This is a better day than the last,

for my children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness. Yesterday I gave them courage.

Today, I have given them strength." And the next day came strange clouds which darkened the earth,

clouds of war and hate and evil,

and the children groped and stumbled,

and the mother said:

"Look up. Lift your eyes to the light."

And the children looked and saw above the clouds an everlasting glory,

and it guided them beyond the darkness.

And that night the Mother said,

"This is the best day of all, for I have shown my children God." And the days went on,

and the weeks and the months and the years,

and the mother grew old and she was little and bent.

But her children were tall and strong,

and walked with courage. And when the way was rough,

they lifted her,

for she was as light as a feather;

and at last they came to a hill,

and beyond they could see a shining road and golden gates flung wide.

And mother said: "I have reached the end of my journey.

And now I know the end is better than the beginning,

for my children can walk alone,

and their children after them." And the children said,

"You will always walk with us, Mother,

even when you have gone through the gates."

And they stood and watched her as she went on alone,

and the gates closed after her. And they said:

"We cannot see her,

but she is with us still.

A Mother like ours is more than a memory. She is a living presence." ~ Author ~ Temple Bailey 1933

Even though raising children is the hardest job on earth it is the most rewarding. If it were easy all mothers would be "good mothers." Motherhood is a very hard job but may my children be able to say that I did the best I knew how to do. I will love and care until I breathe my last breath. Thank you God for the privelege of being a mother.

Twinkies

2010-01-04T13:45:00.001-05:00

http://home.comcast.net/~singingman7/Twinkies.htm This site was sent to me by a friend. I will be packing Twinkies and Root Beer on my next trip.

M & M

2010-01-01T23:21:00.004-05:00

Meg (the tortishell kitty) has adopted Mini (the calico baby kitten) as her own baby. She washes her and they snuggle in the recliner and take naps together. It's so sweet. We've had Meg a year and Mini just a little over 2 weeks.

At It Again

2009-12-31T08:14:00.002-05:00

This is a black crocheted belt I've made for neice. I made a brown one several months back and gave it to my brothers girlfriend. I later learned that my neice wanted one in black. So, because of the busyness of the last month or so I just never got around to it. Finally, last week I zeroed in and focused on completing this for her. If you recall I received the book from my sister for my birthday.

2009-12-29T16:16:00.003-05:00

My friend, Barbara from rubber stamp club sent me this today and I surely thought about it all day:

"Our Pastor asked us a rhetorical question about our prayers during last Wednesday's Bible Study that really got me thinking. He asked us were we selfish in our prayers ... do we only pray for ourselves (it's me, it's me, it's me, oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer) or do we also pray for others? Ouch! I had to admit to myself that I normally pray selfishly, and I agree that is not the behavior Jesus modeled for us and taught us (Matthew 6:9-13). Prayer is a powerful tool the Lord has bestowed upon His Children. Are we using all the tools/talents He has given us to be about His business? Lord Jesus, please forgive us of our short-sightedness and continue to shine Your favor upon us all"

My Father Knows Lyrics Performed by- Walt Whitman & The Soul Children of Chicago Written by- Maurice Carter & Aaron Lindsey

Verse 1:

Looking back over my life,I've seen His promises are true.

I've never been forsaken,He's always seen me through.

This hope that I have within meis knowing that He's always there.

Healing all my heartaches and calming all my fears;my Father knows,

Chorus:

My Father knows every heartache.

My Father knows every joy.

Oh yes, He knows every moment of my life.

I have nothing to fear, my Father knows,cause He's with me.

Oh yes, He knows every pain that I feel.

One thing I know, my Father knows.

Verse 2:

I've seen strugles all around me,and my heart is filled with peace.

My father walks beside me and I feel such a sweet reliefknowing His hand is holding my life.

And He helps me when I fall,He inclines His ears to hear me every time I call.

Finally, I can show you....

2009-12-27T16:44:00.002-05:00

I made this afghan for my brothers girlfriend for Christmas I made this one for my neice Lori for Christmas

I made this afghan for my neice Angela for Christmas

and, finally, I made the following afghan for my neice Amy for Christmas

I made a total of 7 afghans in the year 2009. 5 are for Christmas gifts and 2 were for Birthdays. It was a big undertaking but I wanted all the female members who are close to my heart to have a heirloom afghan that I made with my hands.

Our New Kitten

2009-12-13T18:05:00.002-05:00

We have a new baby kitty name Mini. She is a 15 wk old calico. We adopted her today. She is taunting my other kitties Stormy and Meg. I hope they learn to get along...she's adorable.

Rubber Stamp Club

2009-11-30T15:42:00.002-05:00

October 2009 Homework

October 2009

September 2009

August 2009

July 2009

My sister and I have been members of a Rubber Stamp Club which meets one night a month. Each month we are assigned homework. These are some of my latest homework assignments. We have a lovely time with about a dozen women one night a month. We meet at a Rubber Stamp Store and eat and visit and learn new techniques to do with our rubber stamps.

2009-11-30T11:03:00.004-05:00

Once in Royal Davids City

a poem by C.F. Alexander

Once in royal Davids city,Stood a lowly cattle shed,

Where a mother laid her Baby,

In a manger for His bed:

Mary was that mother mild,

Jesus Christ, her little Child.

He came down to earth from heaven,

Who is God and Lord of all,

And His shelter was a stable,

And His cradle was a stall:

With the poor, and mean, and lowly,

Lived on earth our Saviour holy.

For He is our childhood's pattern;

Day by day, like us, He grew;

He was little, weak, and helpless,

Tears and smiles, like us He knew;

And He cares when we are sad,

And he shares when we are glad.

And our eyes at last shall see Him,

Through His own redeeming love;

For that Child so dear and gentle,

Is our Lord in heaven above:

And He leads His children on,

To the place where He is gone.

http://www.wdwinfo.com/holidays/candlelight_processional.htm

Portrait of Jesus

Jesus is the Son of God

A blueprint for all men

A beam of light for all men

To bring the lost ships in.

He wasn't known for gold or jewels

nor did He strive for fame

But people came from miles away

When they would hear His name.

He wasn’t rich by any means

Not in the earthly way

But just the sound of his dear voice

Would brighten up the day.

His eyes were filled with holy light

As clear as crystal sea

Little children gathered round

To sit upon His knee.

His soul was draped in holiness

He had the faith of Job

A sense of healing came about

To all who touched His robe.

He didn’t walk in laced up shoes

His feet were often bare

One time a sinner washed them clean

And dried them with her hair.

His voice was not so debonair

But yet it told no lies

The wisdom that He did bring forth

Was honest, true and wise

His hands were not like hardened steel

But yet they held our fate

They bore the burdens of this world

How could He bear the weight?

His ears did hear the haunting cries

Of sickly, poor and weak

Even lepers came to Him

He listened to them speak.

Jesus walked upon the earth

A gentle sort of guy

A portrait of the Son of God

Hangs up there in the sky.

More Epcot Photos

2009-11-30T09:37:00.006-05:00

Here are my photos of my recent trip to Epcot in Orlando, Florida. The many countries we visited were amazing and informative. We happened to be there during a very cold week but we didn't let the weather stop us from going to the sites and enjoying it tremendously.

Epcot

2009-11-29T18:02:00.005-05:00

We just returned from Epcot in Orlando. My son took this photo. We spent 4 nights at the Coronado Springs Resorts at Disney. We (My husband and son) had a wonderful time. We visited many different countries there. Ate in Mexico, France and Great Britain. We rode the newest ride; Soaring. I loved that ride and could've ridden it over and over. It's like we were on a journey flying over countryside, water, and several countries...we flew in the air above the clouds and saw hot air balloons, helicopters, even flew over an air craft carrier. It was literally like being taken away. It was serene and beautiful. We also were there for opening night of the Candlelit Procession that had a choir of about 200 members, a narrator and a live orchestra. There must have been a thousand or more people standing outside in the 40 degree weather watching this awesome live show. It was Epcots way of opening the Christmas season. I was amazed and almost moved to tears when I witnessed this. At least a thousand people listening as the narrator is telling the story of Jesus, Gods son being born in a manger. How he was the only sinless man ever born and that He was our gift from God. The entire story of Christ was shared to the masses. I thought over and over that "they" will NEVER take Christ out of Christmas no matter how hard they try. There is so much more to write about but at least I shared the highlights with you.

I am Thankful...

2009-11-24T08:32:00.003-05:00

I am so very thankful for so many things that I'm hesitant to begin the list because I will surely forget to list something. Of course, without adoo I must mention my wonderful family. My husband and sons are my life...they are the very reason I breathe. There is nothing I wouldn't do for them if it were in my power to do so. My bestest best friend, Wanda..my sister; and my brother are , as well, very dear to me.

I am thankful for my Father which I have leaned on for strength my entire life and without Him I would not be me. Words cannot express how much He has brought me through and how much He has helped me over the years.

This wonderful country I live in! Even with all her faults and problems I am still glad to be an American. I believe I will never be able to grasp the treasures living in America does afford me.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving friends and don't forget to take the time to be thankful.

ta daaaaa.....

2009-11-24T05:35:00.002-05:00

Here are the 30 pairs of baby booties I committed to try to make for the March of Dimes.

ooohhh from my best friend, Yvonne

2009-11-14T10:13:00.003-05:00

Here I am wearing my new necklace set shown below

This is a beautiful necklace / earring set that my best friend Yvonne gave me for my birthday. She came for a weekend visit last weekend and gave me this:

The March of Dimes

2009-11-11T19:52:00.004-05:00

The March of Dimes is giving gift bags to parents of children in the hospital ICU at Christmas.

They are in need of about 100 pairs of baby booties.

To my knowledge there are 4 of us working on them at this time.

I have committed to try to make 30 pairs by the end of this month.

I am on my 10th pair now.

It is not too late to help us if you would like to volunteer to help make these baby booties to help give encouragement and to show these parents that we care.

Please let me know if you would like to help.

Thank you in advance

My Prayer...for her....

2009-11-06T21:23:00.004-05:00

God bless America again

You see all the trouble that she's in

Wash her pretty face, dry her eyes

and then God bless America again

Dear God, I sure do wish you could bless America again

Well, you know, just like they did way back when it all began you know,

you surely blessed it once and we just took it for granted and never bothered to ask again

So just hold her hand God,

that's all And if she should stumble,

Please don't let her fall God bless America again

You see all the trouble that she's in

Wash her pretty face, dry her eyes and then God bless America again

You know God,

Theres so much I don't understand

About what I read and hear is wrong in America

But I suppose if you don't have a lot of learnin'

There's so much you can't undertand

Ahh but let me say this God

she's like a mother to me

And everything I am or ever hope to be

I owe it to You and to her .

I thought about our great country, this America....that I love...and all the pain that she has felt as of late.

I've thought about the missing children ...those found dead and alive...

I've thought about the families of those missing women who were found in an evil mans home...dead

I've thought about the shooting on a military base of soldiers and those who weren't...hurt and dead

I've thought about those who went to work this morning and who didn't come home or are in a hospital because of a disgrunted ex-employee

I've thought of all the mothers, the fathers, the brothers and sisters and the wives, husbands and children of all of them that were personally affected due to the terrible things that have happened this week....

I've asked myself what is wrong , what is happening, why is it happening?

I've wiped tears from my eyes as I've watched it unfold on the news.

AND....

THEN....

I asked myself..."Why aren't you praying for this country that you love?"

AND SO I DID!!!!

Oh Mr. Postman....

2009-11-04T14:57:00.003-05:00

The postman brought me a gift today from a friend that I just have to share with you.

Thank you so much Miss Bev....I love it!!!

Help Needed...

2009-11-03T18:06:00.005-05:00

I have been asked by a friend of mine who sits on the board of The March of Dimes to crochet baby booties that will go into Christmas baskets for parents of children who are in the hospital. I have comnmited to about 30 prs..(if I can) but they need about 100 prs. If anyone would be interested in helping please let me know. Thank you

Little Things

2009-11-03T10:11:00.004-05:00

This is a "potholder" but I use it as a doily in my room...isn't it pretty? It's a big flower....I love it

This is a little flower hanging I made one night last week. I had "crocheters block" but was going through withdrawals. So, I took my varigated pink yarn and started crocheting "willy nilly" and this is what happened. I had a candle ring with these pretty stones and folliage so I took it apart and sewed it to the center of the flowers. This is the result of my boredom.

My Birthday..October 31, 2009

2009-11-01T10:31:00.007-05:00

This is a beautiful lace scarf hung by an iron hanger with my favorite Bible Verse ("Be Still and Know That I Am God) which I received (from the mailman on my birthday) from my long long long time friend, Pat.

Kitty Cat gifts (minus the magnets) from my dear friends and neighbors Gail and Danny. The kitty at the bird cage is so like my American Blue kitty name Stormy. She is always drooling over my lovebird Penny.

uhh huh...you know you want it...but it's all mine....a book full of patterns and designs from my sister. She also gave me a $25 gift card to my favorite rubber stamp store.

all of my birthday cards...count them there are 11 of them.

A painting of my kitty, Thunder (who passed away last year after 18 yrs) and my sisters kitty name Reese. There is a little mouse hole at the bottom center with a pair of green eyes peering out...hmmm...are these girls planning to share lunch? This was painted by my neice who is an artist..(she graduated from college this year).

Two big, green Gardenia scented candles from my sister.

Willow Tree candle holder filled with tea light candles (Sorry it's blurry)...from my friend Carolyn....Inscribed inside "Appreciating Your Friendship."

Bling bling picture frames of my family..hubby, (Roy) children (David and Micah) and myself. My photo is on the top of a pretty bottle filled with pearls. This is from my sister. I have always loved this photo of my boys.

My beautiful neice, Angela and her husband of two years Isaac.

Constant laughter...does my heart good.

My ice cream cake from my sweetheart...he has to put together my gift from him which is a new cabinet for my craft room. Will show you when it's done.

My beautiful neice, Angela gave me this sweet card that made me cry....she is my treasure!!!!

My sister, Wanda and I being our silly selves....we always manage to share laughter together. What would I do without her????

The laughter just went on and on....so much fun!

again...funnies

In my sisters home with family...isn't her home beautiful?

little puppy.....

2009-10-27T07:14:00.003-04:00

The puppy with his little bunny friend Here is the puppy...

I hope you read the earlier post regarding the baby bunny. These little pets will be adopted by my friend, Pats great granddaughter...Abigail.

At least, if I can't sleep I can be productive!

You Never Know

2009-10-26T19:26:00.004-04:00

You Never Know

Author Unknown

You never know when someone

May catch a dream from you.

You never know when a little word,

Or something you may do

May open up a window

Of the mind that seeks the light

The way you live may not matter at all...

But you never know - it might.

And just in case it could be

That another's life through you.

Might possibly change for the better

With a broader brighter view.

It seems it might be worth a try

At pointing the way to the right.

Of course, it may not matter at all,

But then again it might.

Awwwwww......

2009-10-26T10:00:00.006-04:00

What are all these little "body parts" laying around?????

and whose head is this?????

Awwww...it's a brand new baby bunny that's who? So, I made this little bunny for my friend, Pat's great grandbaby girl name Abigail. I also want to make a varigated puppy ..in blues and purples this week. When the puppy is conplete I'll show you and then off to South Florida they will go to be adopted by a very special little girl.

I Saw God Everywhere

2009-10-23T23:40:00.002-04:00

I SAW GOD EVERYWHERE By Myrtle Poor (c) As I stood gazing up into the trees I saw the red, green and yellow of the bright autumn leaves. It reminded me of God's rainbow so fair, I looked and I saw God everywhere. As I saw the little wild flowers so perky and gay. I thought to myself "What a beautiful day." I looked at the clouds so puffy and fair: I looked and I saw God everywhere. As I walked down the path I heard a mocking bird sing. On a far distant shore I heard a church bell ring. The peace and tranquility were wonderful there: I listened and I heard God everywhere. I heard a little brook bubbling over the rocks; I saw a swaying little boat tied up in its dock. Trees were all singing as the breeze ruffled their hair, I saw and heard God everywhere. I felt God's spirit there that day. Among the trees, the birds and the flowers so gay. I cried, "Thank God," as His spirit descended on me there. My God and His love was everywhere

and dessert.....

2009-10-23T11:28:00.003-04:00

So, here it is...someone stop me....

out of the box...fixing to be devoured....

OK OK....it's not "after dinner" yet....but I am a firm believer in eating dessert first...or better yet...NOW....

after all how do you think I remain a "happy girl?

Ok who was it.....that showed me the Marie Callendars Coconut Cream Pie? That is all I could think of since I've seen it on "someones" blog...??????

What's for dinner?

2009-10-23T10:33:00.005-04:00

Just returned from the grocery store...and ready to give this recipe a try (Bev). I cook in my crock pot several times a week...so I am excited to give a new recipe a chance to make my hubby's taste buds dance. He HATES onions, so I put some Onion Powder in it ...maybe he won't notice.

So pretty....nice BIG Pork Cutlets...boneless of course.

Mixing it up....yummy

and pouring it in.... Thanks Bev for the recipe. Will let you know how he likes it.

Wala....here it is...all done...I went ahead and cut up the pork chops and mixed it in. I did have to add a little water here and there 'cause it tried to be dry. Also, the "Fiesta" corn adds a nice "bite" to it. I did taste it and it is yummy....

(I often adjust recipes ...in this case I know my hubby likes the corn bread with corn...)

Pork Chops and Cornbread Stuffing by Bev at One Yarn After Another

Suggestions...

2009-10-23T08:37:00.002-04:00

Does anyone have any suggestions as to what small animal (no button eyes) I can make for my good friend of over 20 yrs? She has a great granddaughter who is a baby and saw my sock monkey and wants one. The sock monkey has button eyes and nose and I am not sure that would be a good idea for a baby. So I thought I would make a SMALL animal of some sort. What a dilema!!!!! So, much for "crocheters block."

2009-10-22T19:52:00.003-04:00

Now that Bev at One Yarn After Another has received her swap package I can post my sisters birthday gifts I made her for her big 50. In these photos you will see the most beautiful 50 yr old on the planet...and believe me she is beautiful inside and out.

The first picture is of her and her pink sock monkey I crocheted. I made one for Bev too...sorry folks no more of those...making 2 is enough. My sister named hers Lucy.

The second picture is a victorian pineapple / rose afghan I made earlier in the year for this special occasion. I love my sissy.

2009-10-22T15:43:00.004-04:00

It's been a sad week here in my area in Florida. Monday a little 7 yr old child did not come home from school. the Clay County police, countless volunteers , family and friends looked high and low for her. The whole Nation prayed for her. Her little body was found and it has tore many of us up...even those of us who do not know her or her family.

Myself and a person from the Nancy Grace message board has started a new Facebook community that is open to the public in honor of "our" missing children. It is : Facebook Keep Your Children Safe. Just type this name in your search engine and you should be able to view it. We invite you to join us in doing what we can to make a difference.

We are already writing letters to Governor Charlie Crist advising him that we are tired of hearing about all the missing children in this state. We are requesting that he take responsibility to keep our children safe by keeping sex offenders / predators in prison for life. It's gone on way too long and has destroyed way too many hearts. You can find his email address on this site. You don't have to be from Florida to write him. You just have to be sick of hearing about it over and over again.

Here is a poem in memory of Somer Thompson:

Out of the arms of mommy and daddy

and into the arms of Jesus God sent a angel to the earth...

The sweetest angel too and for such a tiny little thing,

she had so much to do.

She knew she did not have much time upon this earth to stay,

so she did not waste a second; she got started right away.

Her eyes were bright and sparkly, she took in every turn.

She did not miss a single thing, because this angel came to learn!

God sent her here to touch the hearts of those he could not reach..

She taught them courage, strength and faith, because our angel came to teach.

Her tiny little body was so full of God above,

you felt it when you held her , because this angel came to love.

She did her patty cakes, made her monkey face,

and batted colored keys all day, stroked her teddy bear untill she fell asleep,

because God's angel came to play.

In seven short years she managed what many never will.

When she went home to Jesus, her purpose was fullfilled.

She learned and taught, loved and played, she learned her lessons well.

I know He was so proud of her when she went home to dwell.

I think He gave her golden keys to play with all the day...

That she patty cakes with the other angels and makes her monkey face.

I will bet she tells them all shes go-oo-od and I am sure they all agree...

I know she thinks that Heaven is simply heavenly.

But when we miss her OH-SO-MUCH, we can almost hear Him say,

please understand, her work was done...

My angel did not come to stay.

(I did not write this but found it and altered it a little bit.)

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=191807640940&ref=mf

Facebook Keep Your Children Safe

Crocheted Table Runner

2009-10-22T12:58:00.002-04:00

This is my project for this week. I crocheted this table runner for my buffet in my dining room. The pattern is from the same book as the last doilie I made...that book is entitled Crochet Contemporary Crochet by Coats

I like the look and am satisfied with the colors...yarn is "left overs" again.

2009-10-22T12:41:00.001-04:00

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see.

2009-10-19T21:42:00.003-04:00

Ready or not.... Ready or not, some day my Life will end.

There will be no more sunrises, days, hours or minutes.

No more cell phones or calls and mail to be returned.

Every thing I will have collected, be it treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else.

My wealth, fame and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance.

It will not matter what I owned or what I was owed.

My grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.

So will my hopes, ambitions, plans, and To Do List:

All will expire with me. The wins and losses that once seemed so important to me, will fade away.

It won't matter where I was born or what side of the tracks have I lived.

It won't matter if I rented, or owned a house or lived on a boat.

It won't matter whether I was clever, beautiful or brilliant.

My gender, skin color, ethnicity will be irrelevant.

So what WILL matter?

What will be the measure of my days,weeks and years passed?

How will my life be valued?

What will matter is not what I bought, but what I have chosen to build.

Not what I received, but what I have shared and given you.

What will matter is not the level of my success, but my significance.

What will matter is not what I learned, but what I have taught.

What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage and sacrifice that enriched, empowered or encouraged others to emulate from my example.

What will matter is not my competence, but my integrity and character; my true grit.

What will matter is not how many people I have known,rich or poor,

But how many will feel a lasting loss when I am gone.

What will matter are not my faded memories,

But the memories of those who knew and have loved me.

What will matter is how long I will be remembered,

by whom, and for a kaleidoscope of reasons, like a brilliant rainbow.

Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident.

It's not a matter of circumstance.

It is one made of choice; one of my own choosing.

And in so doing, I dance and write my name with Destiny.

I Choose to live a life that matters.

Rubber Stamp Club

2009-10-19T19:03:00.006-04:00

These are just some of the projects I have completed in Rubber Stamp Club.

I suppose it's been around 2 yrs ago that my sister asked me if I want to go to a rubber stamp club with her. She advised me that it meets one evening a month and could be something we could do together.

I have enjoyed going and have made several new friends.

I have a small collection of rubber stamps (compared to many in my club) and have genuinely enjoyed trying some new ideas.

Her Fathers Eyes

2009-10-18T21:10:00.003-04:00

Her Fathers Eyes

I may not be every mothers dream for her little girl,

And my face may not grace the mind of everyone in the world.

But thats all right, as long as I can have one wish I pray:

When people look inside my life,

I want to hear them say,

Shes got her fathers eyes,Her fathers eyes;

Eyes that find the good in things,

When good is not around;

Eyes that find the source of help,

When help just cant be found;

Eyes full of compassion, Seeing every pain;

Knowing what you're going through

And feeling it the same.

Just like my fathers eyes, My fathers eyes,

My fathers eyes, Just like my fathers eyes.

And on that day when we will pay for all the deeds we have done,

Good and bad they'll all be had to see by everyone.

And when you're called to stand and tell just what you saw in me,

More than anything I know, I want your words to be,

She had her fathers eyes,

Her fathers eyes;

Eyes that found the good in things,

When good was not around;

Eyes that found the source of help,

When help would not be found;

Eyes full of compassion, Seeing every pain;

Knowing what youre going through,

And feeling it the same.

Just like my fathers eyes,

My fathers eyes, My fathers eyes,

Just like my fathers eyes.

My fathers eyes, My fathers eyes,

Just like my fathers eyes.

2009-10-18T20:14:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends;

It has been a lovely weekend for me and I am so hoping your weekend has been wonderful too. The weather is turning cooler and it's quite brisk outside.

Yesterday, my husband and I did our usual shopping and I couldn't resist going to the craft store (once again). He is my best shopping buddy and he doesn't mind tagging along with me. We went out to lunch and enjoyed each others company (as usual).

Both of my sons called this weekend and they are doing very well. It is so refreshing to know that they are finding their way in this big world and yet still have time to call me and visit via the phone.

I did some crocheting yesterday as it has been about a week since I picked up my "happy hook" and I was going through withdrawals. I am at a loss right now as to what to create with my "happy hook". I think it's "crocheters block." I'm sure something will come up soon and then I won't be able to put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the recent crochet swap. It was my very first one and my swap (almost put swamp) partner overwhelmed me with a lovely package. She should be receiving hers later this next week. I , so, hope she will enjoy receiving it as much as I did creating it for her.

I have a birthday coming up in a couple of weeks. I'm so happy to celebrate another one. My birthday is on halloween and yes, I am a treat...not a trick.

I feel so content with my life as it is and this wonderful neighborhood that I now belong to has brought me much joy. I am enjoying reading everyones blogs and feel we have so much in common. I love all your"pretties" and appreciate your sharing with me.

I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead and please stay in touch. - your blogging friend, janet

Lookie

2009-10-18T13:16:00.003-04:00

Lookie at what I made last night. This very - very large doilie is meant to be made from crochet thread, but I chose to make it from 4ply varigated yarn. It was super easy to make and lots of fun. A little time consuming, however, but I feel it was well worth it. I really like it alot.

Crochet Potholder Swap

2009-10-16T19:25:00.004-04:00

Mr. Postman came to see me today. He brought me my first Crochet Swap trade. My crochet swap partner was so very kind to me...this just made my day. Bev at One Yarn After Another was my partner. Bev, dearie, thank you so much..

Here is a list of the contents of the box:

1: White hotpad with green Christmas tree (crocheted)

2: Black, white and gray potholder (crocheted)

3:White Little Starburst Dishcloth (crocheted) with instructions

4:Recipe for Candy Cane Bread

5:Black Dish Towel

6:Adorable Liquid Dish Soap Crocheted Dress (red, black and white)

7: Shepherd Sock Crochet Thread (Christmas colors)

8: Oriental drawstring bag/tote

9: Inside tote:

2- Green Tea packets

1- Epicure Onion Dip Mix PAcket

Christmas candy

10:snowman buttons

11: Red Rick Rack

12: Black Ribbon

13: Ceramic Christmas candle holder, shade and candle

14: Small pkg of beads

Isn't this package just lovely? Bev, I have enjoyed having you as my very first swap partner. You made this experience very special. Thank you Thank you Thank you

Three Things

2009-10-16T08:44:00.000-04:00

Piece of My Heart

2009-10-15T22:40:00.005-04:00

Piece of my heart

A piece of my heart belongs to you

bloom in this wasteland

You're guiding me through.

I hope that you know

how much it means to me

when you listen to my despair

and my dreams.

Sometimes I wonder if you understand

these words on the screen,

this pen in my hand.

But one thing is certain,

this is what I feel

You're my inspiration,

you're helping me heal.

Cause together we're stars

in a stormy skylight

for one another as others fade and die.

Hope in the darkness

as more pass us by

together we're stronger,

together we cry.

And when someone walks your path of life

and steals your heart away

I hope you'll still remember me.

I'll be here to light the way.

We don't need swords to see this war

though our pens are mighty

and our words are too.

As long as you need me

I'll shine bright.... and truefriend,

a piece of my heart it belongs to you.

by Seleneposted on 09/20/2008

This post is in honor of three little girls...bonded together through all eternity...nothing can change that...not even death...nothing!

Drinkin' from my saucer

2009-10-15T22:09:00.006-04:00

DRINKIN' FROM MY SAUCER

I've never made a fortune

And it's prob'ly too late now;

But I don't worry 'bout that much,

I'm happy anyhow!

And as I go along life's way

Reapin' better than I sowed.

I'm drinkin' from my saucer,

'Cause my cup has overflowed!

Haven't got a lot of riches,

And sometimes the going's tough;

But I've got loving ones around me,

And that makes me rich enough!

I thank God for His blessings

And the mercies He's bestowed.

I'm drinkin' from my saucer,

'Cause my cup has overflowed!

I 'member times when things went wrong

, My faith wore somewhat thin;

But all at once the dark clouds broke

And light peeped through again.

So, Lord, help me not to gripe

About tough rows I've hoed.

I'm drinkin' from my saucer,

'Cause my cup has overflowed!

If God gives me strength and courage

When the way grows steep and rough,

I'll not ask for other blessings;

I'm already blessed enough!

May I never be too busy

To help others bear their loads.

I'll keep drinkin' from my saucer, '

Cause my cup has overflowed!

Leftovers....

2009-10-15T06:45:00.004-04:00

I made these hotpads from left over yarn

This is a large amount of crochet flowers that I made with scrap yarn. I am always looking for small projects to make with the left over yarns from larger projects.

Supposed to be cleaning......

2009-10-13T10:08:00.004-04:00

This is in the Shabby Chic bedroom

Notice the cross stitch fan that my best friend made me several years ago.

This is a niche that is in my living room. I have been wanting to paint or decal this light green wall but just wasn't sure what to do. So, for now I have cut out some scrap book paper and attached it to the wall with double sided tape.

Yummy Yummy to my tummy

2009-10-12T20:08:00.003-04:00

Vanilla sprinkled with Chocolate Chips and Chocolate Ice Cream On my hutch...cupcakes, donuts, oreos and sundaes Piece o' cake

Donut pin cushion...the sprinkles are pins...

2009-10-12T18:45:00.003-04:00

My Dream World July 31, 2009

I have a beautiful world in my dreams

My dream world is very peaceful

In my dream world,

no one is harmed by another

In my dream world,

everyone loves each other

In my dream world,

everyone thinks about peace

Unity and brotherhood exist

Women and men work together

No one says that this woman is bad because she works with men

In my dream world,

no women suffer problems because of being a woman.

In my dream world,

all girls and boysget an equal education.

In my dream world,

life is very beautiful

Everyone is happy

Young and innocent peopleare not being killed

There are no insurgents,

no insecurity

Everyone has a comfortable life

Everyone is relaxed,

not worrying about their children going to school

Students come back healthy,not killed in a suicide attack.

In my dream world,

mothers are happy

They are not in sorrow over their children’s death

In my dream world,

no newly married girls become widows

My dream world is a green color where everyone is happy

My dream world and my world,

I hope, become the same one day

By Seeta

2009-10-11T23:45:00.001-04:00

Small Enough oh, great god, be small enough to hear me now

there were times when i was crying from the dark of daniel's den

and i have asked you once or twice if you would part the sea again

but tonight i do not need a fiery pillar in the sky

just wanna know you're gonna hold me if i start to cry

oh, great god, be small enough to hear me now oh, great god, be close enough to feel you now

there have been moments when i could not face goliath on my own

and how could i forget we've marched around our share of jerichos

but i will not be setting out a fleece for you tonight

just wanna know that everything will be alright

oh great god, be close enough to feel you now all praise and all honor be to the god of ancient mysteries

whose every sign and wonder turn the pages of our history

but tonight my heart is heavy

and i cannot keep from whispering this prayer "are you there?" and i know you could leave writing on the wall

thats just for me or send wisdom while i'm sleeping,

like in soloman's sweet dreams

but i don't need the strength of samson

or a chariot in the end

just want to know that you still know

how many hairs are on my head

oh great god, be small enough to hear me now

2009-10-11T20:44:00.001-04:00

IMAGINE, IF YOU WILL (The Perry Sisters)

Have you ever wondered about a better land

Where race and creed together are walking hand in hand?

Brother will love brother and sister will too

Where hope becomes reality and all your dreams come true

(Chorus)

So imagine if you will a land with no dying,

no more hungry children, and no more babies crying

So imagine if you will no unkind words are spoken

and no more hearts are broken,

or old folks left alone

Don’t you think you’d like to call it home?

Have you ever wondered just how it’s gonna be

To live with one another in perfect harmony?

Soldiers will cease fighting

for there will be no war

All the maimed and the wounded

won’t be hurting anymore

(Chorus)

Yes, I think I’d like to call it home!

I Can't Even Walk....

2009-10-11T19:59:00.002-04:00

I Can't Even Walk

I thought number one would surely be me,

I thought I could be what I wanted to be.

I thought I could build on life's sinking sand

But I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

The mountain's too high and the valley's too wide.

Down on my knees, I learned to stand.

And I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

I think I'll make Jesus my One and my All

From now on when in trouble,

only His name I'll call

And If I can't trust Him,

I'll be less of a man'

Cause I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

The mountain's too high and the valley's too wide.

Down on my knees, I learned to stand.

And I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

Down on my knees, I learned to stand.

And I can't even walk without You holding my hand.

Celebrity Siteing....

2009-10-11T12:54:00.005-04:00

Guess who lives less than ten minutes away from me? I hope you are familiar with him...he is Slim Whitman. Here is his story:

Slim Whitman

Though he was once known as "America's Favorite Folksinger," Slim Whitman was, for the majority of his career, more famous in Europe than in the United States. Best remembered for his early-'50s hit singles like "Love Song of the Waterfall," "Indian Love Call," and "Singing Hills," Whitman was an excellent yodeler known for singing mellow, romantic and clean-cut songs. As a child, Slim Whitman (born Ottis Dewey Whitman, Jr.) became infatuated with music and learned to yodel listening to Montana Slim and Jimmie Rodgers records. At age 17, he married 15-year-old Geraldine Crist, a preacher's daughter. The newlyweds moved to a 40-acre farm south of Jacksonville, FL, where Whitman worked as a meat packer. While working in the plant, he suffered an accident and lost two fingers on his left hand. After the accident, he began working in a Tampa shipyard. During World War II, Whitman served in the US Navy, where he learned to play guitar. Following the war, he returned to the shipyard and also joined a local minor-league baseball team, the Plant City Berries. Whitman remained with the team through 1948, but then began building a singing career at several Tampa radio stations, eventually creating a back-up band, the Variety Rhythm Boys.

In 1955, Whitman moved back to Florida, which restricted his appearances on the Grand Ole Opry because he found the trips too time-consuming.

I drove by his house today and took a photo for just for you:

Mr. Whitman is seen all over our little town of Middleburg. He is seen frequently at the local grocery store. He is pretty elderly now as he was born January 20, 1924. His home once was out in the country all alone. My mother actually took my sisters and me by his home when I was a child. He has lived there all these years. Now my mother is buried in a cemetary just down the street from him. Mr. Whitman has a great reputation in these parts and many say he is extremely kind and will even stop and sign autographs.

Love Doesn't Hurt

2009-10-10T20:03:00.005-04:00

ALive

Time goes slowly now in my life

Fear no more of what I'm not sure

Searching for your soul

The strength to stand alone

the power of not knowing and letting go

I guess I've found my way

it's simple when its right

Feeling lucky just to be here tonight

And happy just to be me and be alive.

Love, in and out, of my heart,

And though life can be strange

I can't be afraid

Searching for your soul,

the strength to stand alone,

The power of not knowing and letting go.

I guess I've found my way

it's simple when it's right.

Feeling lucky just to be here tonight.

And happy just to be me and be alive.

I guess I've found my way

it's simple when its right.

Feeling lucky just to be here tonight

and Happy just to be me and to be alive.

This song is amazing. It is about an abused woman who escapes her abusive husband. It's how she feels when she is finally free...when he is finally out of her life and she no longer must live in fear. It's when she discovers that she will be fine and she will survive all on her own...without her abuser...that anything is better than the way it was.

If you read these lyrics you will get a very small glimpse of what her freedom feels like...she is happy to just be herself and happy to be alive.

I will take the time to pray for the abused women and children who are in pain and fear tonight. They could be our neighbors, our friends, the cashier at the grocery store and the sooner we realize that there are those who live in secret fear the sooner they will be free.

This is a passion of mine. When I think of women and children in this situation it tears me up inside. Noone should live in fear much less be purposely in physical pain from someone who is supposed to love them. Let us all be aware and always take the time to care.

Sharing my Woodburned Projects with you....

2009-10-10T18:56:00.003-04:00

This is a baby keepsake box I woodburned and painted for a friend This was for a neighbor for her birthday and this...well this little box (in the center) I woodburned and painted for my younger sister sometime after she gave me the adorable little figurine. Just to remind you, my eldest sister passed away in January of this year. My youngest sister gave me this figurine of two sisters and the card reads "Mama says take care of your sister." My sister said that mama was watching out for our oldest sister and she wants us to watch out for each other. This little figurine means the world to me. I gave her the box just shortly after I made it for her.

Lalalala....I got new treasures....

2009-10-10T15:51:00.005-04:00

This is a Limoges piece

http://www.pamsantiques.com/loaditem.html?itempage=item595213300.html

Found this on a website ...very similar for $28.00 I paid $5.00

This had nothing on the back but is gorgeous The dish below reads "Germany"... "Bavarian China" on the back

Below is a small bowl that reads "Royal".."Austria".."American Beauty"

http://cgi.ebay.com/O&EG-ROYAL-AUSTRIAN-PLATES---HAND-PAINTED-ARTIST-SIGNED_W0QQitemZ270466739950QQcmdZViewItemQQimsxZ20091008?IMSfp=TL091008154004r36734

Found this on ebay...see site

Went to a neighborhood garage sale this a.m. Hubby and I got there really early so I got some treasures....The Limoges piece cost me $5 and the rest was a total of $3.00.

Who is your hero?

2009-10-09T21:09:00.007-04:00

In honor or my beautiful grandmother Ola Ruth

This is she and I years and years ago.

She now resides in Heaven.

A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer. Ralph Waldo Emerson

"Wind Beneath My Wings"

Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh.It must have been cold there in my shadow,

to never have sunlight on your face.

You were content to let me shine, that's your way.

You always walked a step behind.

So I was the one with all the glory,

while you were the one with all the strength

.A beautiful face without a name for so long.

A beautiful smile to hide the pain.

Did you ever know that you're my hero,

and everything I would like to be?

I can fly higher than an eagle,

'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

It might have appeared to go unnoticed,

but I've got it all here in my heart.

I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it.

I would be nothing without you.

Did you ever know that you're my hero?

You're everything I wish I could be.

I could fly higher than an eagle,'

cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

Did I ever tell you you're my hero?

You're everything, everything I wish I could be.

Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle,

'cause you are the wind beneath my wings,

'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.

Oh, the wind beneath my wings.

You, you, you, you are the wind beneath my wings.

Fly, fly, fly away.

You let me fly so high.

Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.

Fly, fly, fly high against the sky,

so high I almost touch the sky.

Thank you, thank you,thank God for you,

the wind beneath my wings.

My beloved grandmother was my hero. She always believed in me. She stood beside me through good and bad. I loved that woman. She was a true lady of sorts. She always had grace and didn't have a mean bone in her body. When I was a child she gave me little treats. She was not wealthy by any means and lived on social security. But, you would never know it. She always dressed to the nines and was a beautiful lady...inside and out. I hope that God gives every child at least one hero to help guide them along lifes path. I miss you grandmama...you are my hero.

Bottle Art

2009-10-09T19:23:00.006-04:00

Here is some bottle art I did a while back. I decoupaged a rubber stamped kitty, added some little cat charms along with a small tag with a rubber stamped saying that reads "Every life should have nine cats." I then added some ribbon, beads and filled the bottle with pink scented rock chips. I really like this little bottle. Hope you do too.

Beautiful day in the neighborhood

2009-10-09T12:53:00.004-04:00

It's a beautiful day today...I read your comments and so much appreciate them. Thank you. I thought I would show you some doilies I made with thread because Marilyn asked me about them. She said she loves making doilies. I have to give admire that because working with thread is harder for me. I've been told I don't have good tension in my projects. But, I try when I have the patience. I also tend to adjust my projects to suit my tastes. So that is why they look different from the photos.

2009-10-09T06:40:00.002-04:00

I love baskets and boxes. There is something about them that draw me. I believe it is because they look nice and have function. Here are some that I made from a pattern in a crochet magazine. I made many of these but these are the ones I kept for myself.

Crochet....

2009-10-08T13:52:00.002-04:00

A slow cooker cover I designed and made for my sister. On the wall behind it are some potholders I made her a while back. A fall clutch I made recently A "cup of joe" I made just for kicks

I will show you more at a later date...

My heart...my most treasured gifts

2009-10-08T07:02:00.003-04:00

I wanted to share a couple of poems with you. My very most treasured gifts in life are my two sons. They are 25 and 23 yrs old now. I hope you will understand if you have read these poems many times over...but, they are precious to me.

When You Thought I Wasn't Looking