Cottage State of Mind

A New Year, a New Me

2012-01-17T11:33:00.000-08:00

January 2012

December 2009

As you can see, quite a change! I've lost almost 60 lbs in the last year, 18 in the last two months working the personal trainer. Life is so much easier and better with out that extra weight! Still have some work to do but well on my way. Keeping everyone happy and healthy. Hope your year is off to a great start too!

Hugs,

Dawn

Fall Review

2011-11-19T06:58:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends!

The past two months have flown by.

I'm sorry I've been out of touch but these two characters have kept me busy.

There's never a dull moment here.

We celebrated son's 19th birthday with friends

and our infamous giant cookie.

It's one of the few sweets he'll eat.

He loves hot and spicy.

His current favorite is jalapenos on hot links

with a side of flaming hot Cheetos!

His friends all adore my mom because she loves to play.

He likes to tell everyone, "My Grandma's got game!"

Darling Daughter likes to stay on the sidelines.

She's crushing on a boy cheerleader right now so

this was her Halloween costume.

We couldn't find a toy megaphone so I cut the ends off

of a paper mache witche's hat from Michael's.

No time to paint so we just taped some scrapbook paper

around it and she was good to G O!

We never got around to those bus rids this summer

but I finally got us going this week.

We went to Barnes and Noble for some browsing

and a snack at the cafe.

It was busy so we ended up on the patio.

Can you tell we were freezing from the wind?

We had fun. He and I have lots of time to hang out now

because his transition program didn't work out for him.

He's home with me all the time now.

We have him set up for a basketball class and a life skills class

at the local junior college next semester.

In the meantime he wanted to try out the local gym.

The very thought of walking in a gym made me ill

but I had to do it for him.

What I found on the other side of those doors was

a wonderful place full of friendly, encouraging people.

I'm happy to report we go three times a week

and, are you ready for this...

I'm working with a personal trainer once a week

in the weight room and doing cardio the other two days!

Hehehe, who would of thunk it?

I feel so much better after only 3 weeks.

I'm sure within a year I'll be off the high blood pressure medicine

and hoping to have the sleep apnea under control too.

I see the ENT next week and suspect surgery is in my future.

Thank you all for your comments and emails.

I love hearing from you.

A special thanks to a good friend

who ~~kicked my butt~~ gently persuaded me to get this post done.

You are a bright spot in my life.

Change of Heart!

2011-09-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Disregard that last post!

Summer can take a hike now.

Autumn just arrived in my mailbox.

Someone please run to the craft store and get me a fake pumpkin,

I'm stuck home with a sick kid!

Holding on to Summer

2011-09-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

A bag of craft store shells

and a beautiful octagonal jar from an estate sale

take me to distant beaches of long ago times.

A Sweet Etsy Giveaway

2011-09-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

Tammy at The Stitching Coop

is giving away a $50 gift certificate for her Etsy shop.

She has many wonderful items including

pillows and pillow cases,

rag quilts,

and this adorable clothespin bag!

I've purchased grocery bags, a tote and 2 drawstring laundry bags

from Tammy and they have all been beautiful and well made.

Click here to get the details of the giveaway (and see some great pet photography to boot!)

You can click over to her Etsy shop from there.

Keep Calm and Go Back in Time?

2011-09-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it was the gloomier than normal winter we had

or the busy chaotic summer,

but something has me craving a simpler, softer color pallet.

Along with the vintage pot holders

I've picked up some old green kitchen items like this beater

and this rolling pin.

Of course if you're going to roll out some biscuits

you'll need some biscuit cutters like these that I found on Etsy.

I should have known that a fellow blogger,

whom I adore,

would have just what I was looking for!

She even sent along several recipes from Sweet Bee Cottage.

Thank you Sweet Bee!

It all has me wishing for a sweet vintage kitchen to cook in.

Oh, wait, I did have a sweet vintage kitchen...

can you say "remodeling remorse"?

A Balancing Act

2011-08-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

That's what this summer has been.

I'm grateful we have a pool.

I love to go out late in the evening when the neighborhood has quieted down...

The air is hot and heavy and no breeze stirs the water.

I can't resist.

Perfectly still, perfectly quiet, until one foot breaks the glass-like surface.

The first ripple glides to the far side.

The porch light now dancing on the water delights me.

I roll up my pants high above my knees and plop down on the hot cement.

I'm tempted to just dive in, clothes and all, but am too practical for that.

I settle for kicking both feet with abandon.

The waves are rocking, slapping against the sides and spilling water onto the sidewalk.

Pants soaked.

I stop and take a few deep breaths while the waves expend the last of their energy.

Quiet stillness again.

Then the screen door slams.

The dogs run out and nearly push me in.

Someone hollers, "mOm?"

They found me...

Rejuvenated.

Parenting Article ~ The Never-Empty Nest

2011-06-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I want to take a moment to let you know about an article I just read in the July 2011 issue of Good Housekeeping. It's called "The Never-Empty Nest" by Michael Callahan. I'm not sure if it's on news stands yet but it should be soon. The cover has Angie Harmon and is done in red white and blue.

Mr. Callahan is an uncle to two young adults with autism. Neither will ever be able to take care of himself. This article is interesting as it's from the point of view from someone who is close to the family, loves them dearly, but is still on the outside. One can't really know what it's like to be a full time caretaker unless you've been there. The author touches on sacrifice, fear and acceptance as well as the simple, happy moments that make life good. It also delves into the often unspoken feelings and perceived responsibilities of extended family.

Even if you aren't currently dealing with a developmentally disabled child this is a very interesting article. The issues of dependent adult care are being brought to the forefront more and more. Most people are aware of autism and Alzheimer's but other factors like traumatic brain injury can lead to the immediate need for home health care. While most focus is on the monetary cost the bigger issue for me is the mental and emotional toll on the caregivers.

Just yesterday I stopped by "English Cottage in Georgia" to check in on my friend Lucy. I was sad to find that her husband Terry has passed away. Terry had suffered traumatic brain injury when knocked down on the sideline of a high school football game several year ago. I left a note of condolence for this wonderfully strong, loving lady then clicked over to her second blog, "Life is Too Short". It is dedicated to Terry's journey. Her recent post there was about accepting her husband's condition and what it meant in her day to day life. Please stop by and offer Lucy a hug. You'll gain a new perspective on life in return.

Life's Plan B

2011-05-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

Just a little bouquet

to show my appreciation

for the friendships and inspiration I've found

since starting my blog two years ago today.

Summer vacation starts in two weeks

and the kids always want to pack in

as much fun and adventure as possible.

Things are a little different this year though.

I'm going to use their initial enthusiasm

to sneak in some work on life skills and bus training.

They don't like riding the bus but if there is

something fun at the end of the ride

it should go a little easier.

My son is graduating and will be attending

a transition program next fall.

It combines work and social activities.

One of the goals is getting him comfortable with public transit so he

won't always be dependent on someone else to get around.

My daughter will be in a similar situation when she graduates in a few years.

We've known from the beginning that our children would most likely be living with us long into adulthood. Our lives will not follow the path of most families but we've done our best to adjust and plan for that. Still, it's daunting. A fellow blogger and mother of children with special needs recently commented that she feels like she needs to live forever to care for them. I can relate to that.

I've been struggling for a while about my blog. My posts are more and more random in timing and content than I would like. I feel guilty that I can't take the time to visit everyone I'd like to and respond to comments. Even as I started this post I was unsure about where I was headed. Then I re-read my last post, one thrown together just to have something to show. The quote was searched out just to have something to say but falls right into place with what I'm feeling now. "But a man or woman becomes fully human only by his or her choices and his or her commitment to them." Commitment. I don't feel the same excitement now as when I first started blogging. It was a wonderful way to tap back into my creative side and meet fabulous friends but it also became an escape from the everyday stresses. For the first year it was an like an addiction, taking all my time and attention, and as I tried to pull back and regain perspective I realized I couldn't do it half-way and be happy about it.

I won't say goodbye because I will still be lurking occasionally. I've become very fond of so many of you and will do my best to stay in touch. I hope to return to blogging in the future but for now I'll just say

Until we link up again...

Hugs,

Dawn

Someone Once Said...

2011-05-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

“The acorn becomes an oak by means of automatic growth; no commitment is necessary. The kitten similarly becomes a cat on the basis of instinct. Nature and being are identical in creatures like them. But a man or woman becomes fully human only by his or her choices and his or her commitment to them. People attain worth and dignity by the multitude of decisions they make from day by day.” Rollo May

Growing from the shadows, an Oak reaches for the sunshine.

Two Great Women

2011-05-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

MY MIL

MY MOM

Thank you both for helping me be a better mom. I couldn't do it without all your guidance and support. Not to mention you're both great sock sorters!

Happy Mother's Day!

We're Not Lazy...

2011-04-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

just hanging out

and enjoying

quality time.

Roses

2011-04-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

But he that dares not grasp the thorn

Should never crave the rose.

Anne Bronte

Prayers Needed

2011-04-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

I was stunned and distraught this morning as I checked the blogs and found that two of my dear friends are hurting.

They both happen to be wonderful women I've had the chance to meet and they are both more loving and caring than you could ever imagine. They each give selflessly to others and carry the world on their shoulders.

Mona's daughter Sandra is facing a health crisis as is Gloria's husband Len. Please stop by and offer your prayers and support in their time of need.

BYOG ~ Bring Your Own Grub Party

2011-02-25T20:19:00.000-08:00

There's an impromptu party over at Wit Behind the Ears today and it has no rules so it's easy to join, which made it really appealing to me. You can even link up an old post, anything grub related, and don't have to link back to them. Seriously, no rules!

Anna and her co-writers at Wit, Gwen and Rachael, keep it real and keep me laughing. It's a great place to go to ~~steal ideas~~ get inspiration because you never know what you'll find there.

I don't do many food posts because I'm not much of a cook. I was even foiled by an "easy" to use toy oven! Click here if you want to know what's on that plate and why a screwdriver was part of the recipe.

Little Smokies wrapped in small pieces of crescent roll dough is our idea of a fancy appetizer and a New Year's Eve party tradition. Just cook them a minute or two longer than the dough package calls for. If you forget to set the timer and start smelling smoke don't worry. It just means the kids will be having PB&J again instead and you can put off going to the store for dog food one more day. Husbands usually prefer burned weenies and dough over PB&J so make sure you save some for your man.

Occasionally a miracle happens and the stars align. If I have time to plan, shop, and clear the lunch bags, empty soda bottles and science experiments from the kitchen counters, I can prepare a decent meal. This stew was so awesome I was going to blog about it. Then I looked at the photo and thought...looks like dog food.

My son is the real foodie of the house. He knows all the chefs names on all the food shows. He expresses his appreciation for my cooking in his own special way. He often says things like, "Mmm, this is good, did you cook it or just microwave it?" I just say yes, I cooked it, knowing he means well. Microwaving is cooking, technically. He's catching on though, he's starting to ask if I used real food and a recipe or just opened a box or a can! The other two family members aren't near as picky. Every day my daughter begs for McDonald's. Every day Hubby prays we're not having McDonald's. You can't please everyone all the time!

Speaking of science experiments...

Onion soup anyone?

LOL! I looked up the date of the photo with my son cooking, where this same onion is in the background, and it was early December! This photo was taken today. I'm beginning to think of it more as a houseplant than dinner.

I hope you'll pay the girls at Wit a visit. You're bound to leave with some good ideas to ~~steal~~ try and maybe some blogging inspiration too. And I know you'll have a laugh or two. If you have time read the comments sections, there's even more fun there!

No Doubt About It

2011-02-22T22:37:00.000-08:00

Awww Nuts!

We've analyzed things thoroughly and decided

I'm definitely stuck in a rut.

I guess I could blog about laundry.

But I think I'll just nap.

Tag!

2011-02-13T19:08:00.000-08:00

Have you ever played tag with a ladybug?

I know a very special ladybug who blogs about her fun loving dogs, sweet family and that big Texas sky. She always has her camera in hand and can put the most interesting spin on everyday objects. Her name is Deb, and her blog is A Ladybug from Texas. She tagged me for a little game of

5 Things I Never Leave Home Without.

1. Sunglasses, duh! It's California after all.

On bad hair days they're partnered with a baseball cap for that Hollywood starlet in disguise look.

2. Trifocals, not near as cool as the sunglasses but necessary.

3. My rosy pink cell phone.

4. A book by my favorite author or a home decor magazine for all the time I spend waiting for kids or at appointments.

5. A little plastic envelope that contains family photos, I.D.s and fingerprints of my kids.

You see, our family members look very different from each other. When my son was young he would often bolt when scared of, say, a cowboy clown wearing an ostrich riding costume. You know, the kind where the person's legs look like the ostrich's and there are floppy fake people legs hanging over the stupid bird. Any clown or bird scared him. So combine the two and you've got one hysterical little boy fighting to run as fast and as far as possible while his new adoptive parents desperately try not to loose him at a crowded fair. A woman actually intervened, thinking we were trying to kidnap him! Ever since then I've carried my little "emergency kit".

So those are the five things I take with me everywhere. How about you? What makes you stop and head back home if you forget it?

Scrappy Quilts

2011-01-27T12:41:00.000-08:00

It's another cold and dreary winter day {{{sigh}}}. Whether you have to deal with mounds of snow and icy sidewalks or fog so dense you lose your bearings, it's nice to get home and cuddle up under a warm quilt.

I think quilts are LOVE in a tangible form. I'll take an old fashioned scrappy quilt over a designer comforter any day! The only problem, like with childhood blankies and teddy bears, quilts passed through generations get loved to death and reach a point where you can't use them as they were meant to be. But they are still worthy.

I bought this fan quilt at an estate sale. Several people picked it up and admired it until seeing the flaws then casually tossed it aside. While they only saw imperfection I saw LOVE. Endless hours of tedious hand work, treasured scraps of fabric, memories, warmth, comfort...LOVE.

Like this quilt. It was made in the late seventies by my grandmother with the help of my mom and aunts. I don't know who did the black stitching but I think it was done years earlier. I do remember the blocks being arranged and sewn together.

I remember helping to tie the little pieces of green yarn. I was 13. It was the year my grandmother passed away. The prints are all scraps from my great-grandmother's dresses. She had passed when I was about 7. Four generations have had their hands on this fabric. Four generations separated for now, but tied together with little pieces of string. I hope that if this scrappy quilt ever finds it's way into a stranger's hands it will be recognized as LOVE worthy of saving.

*********

I want to apologize for not getting out to visit more of you. I'm kind of muddling through a lot of things right now. I hope you'll bear with me as I work on some other aspects of my life for a couple of months. I will be by from time to time. Don't fret, I know how you all worry, everything is okay. I just need to get a handle on some things. I'll try to keep posting once a week or so but real life doesn't have a "preview" button so we'll have to see how it goes!

Copy Cat ...or...Dog

2011-01-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

My daughter and I like to play a game where we draw pictures line by line and try to guess what the final picture is. I drew this dog, starting with the lines of the mouth and she had no idea where I was going. When we were done she asked why I did the mouth that way instead of just a happy face smile. I told her it's just one way it can be drawn.

A few days later I woke to find a pile of papers she had been drawing on in the middle of the night. One of them was a dog and cat with cute little noses and mouths. And ta da! They had legs! Rectangle legs straight from the heads but definitely legs!

Do you remember your child's progress as their fine motor skills developed? Each new body part is a celebration of growing, learning, and advancing. Of course everyone thinks their own child is brilliant and I'm no exception. These pictures really are special though. Why? Because my daughter is 15 years old.

At an age when most teens are learning to drive and grumbling about homework, my daughter is just finding the joy in being able to draw her best friends. And we celebrate it! Each little step gives her the confidence to go a little further along this path we call life.

On a Lighter Note

2011-01-09T07:45:00.000-08:00

The rainy weather last week made for beautiful

sunrises over the Sierra's.

As the storm ended Monday it brought my favorite clouds,

big, low, puffy ones.

They look like you could sit on the edge and dangle your feet over.

If only my ladder was a bit taller!

Even their reflection in the pool was cool.

The sky was a brilliant deep blue that we only get after a good storm has cleared the air.

Later we went for a drive and spotted this family out for a walk.

Whimsy is alive and well after all!

We stopped at a drive-thru and I was horrified to see what I thought was several dead birds.

Too much orange chicken from the Panda Express patio?

I was glad to see my first impression was wrong.

It turned out to be

The Red Rock Bird Spa.

As we sat and waited 5 to 10 birds at a time would be in this one spot. It was so amusing to watch bird after bird flutter over from the nearby bushes and take their turn in the sauna made by the water under the warm rocks. There were many puddles nearby but this was the place to be!

We have a busy day planned today but I will get back to visiting soon. Everyone is well (knock on wood!) and we're all back in our routines. My son is assisting with his high school's varsity basketball team and his Special Olympics team starts practicing soon so he's happy as a clam. My daughter is back to her chipper self and enjoying friends at school instead of playing with mommy! I missed all the New Year's posts so I'll be checking in to see how you all are and what your plans for 2011 are. For me it will THE year to get organized and get fit. Oh, wait, that was last year's resolutions...

Regardless

2011-01-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

Today is a sad day in history of The United States of America.

Regardless of who pulled the trigger or why.

Regardless of the number of victims or the severity of their wounds.

Regardless of where you stand, what you stand for, or who you stand with.

Regardless of your identity or anonymity when you exercise your right to free speech.

After reading some of today's news coverage and the comments that followed I kept thinking about the line from Spiderman when Peter's uncle tells him "With great power comes great responsibility." If anything good comes from today's horrific act of cowardice and egotism I hope it's that the people of this nation realize what great power the right of free speech is. It is so powerful one word can incite a riot or clear a crowded building. And it comes with great responsibility.

Regardless of whether you are speaking to millions of followers on Twitter or your next door neighbor on the front porch.

Just a Quick Hello!

2011-01-02T15:52:00.000-08:00

Hello Freinds! I just wanted to pop in and apologize for not not making the rounds the last couple of weeks. Several of us here are under the weather, and what soggy weather it is! With everyone home for vacation and/or sick, and the constant rain, the computer is in high demand. I hope everyone had a Happy New Year. I'll be around as soon as possible.
Hugs,
Dawn

Do You Believe in Miracles?

2010-12-21T15:51:00.000-08:00

Today's paper tells of an accident

that happened in Bear Creek,

which winds it's way through Merced.

A week ago it was nearly dry in spots but several

days of rain have it running fast, muddy and cold.

A small car missed a turn

during a downpour and flipped

down the embankment into 10 feet of water.

A good samaritan handed his cell phone

to his wife to call 911 then jumped in.

He helped those in the water to the bank

then went back and rescued

the last person still in the car,

all before the first responders even arrived.

Miracle enough?

Here's the Something Special

that sets this story apart.

The good samaritan

was able to act so quickly

because he and his wife

were taking refuge

under the nearby bridge.

Homeless.

Or "Houseless" as the man prefers to say.

Now he is a hero.

A hero who walked away

in wet clothes with a blanket and $5 for coffee

as the accident victims were taken to the hospital for hypothermia.

Some will say they were all lucky.

Some will say he was stupid to risk his own life.

Some will even reach into the

darkest corners of their jaded hearts

and find a way to put a negative spin

on it, to make it political, to de-humanize it.

I prefer to Believe

in compassion,

in the human spirit,

in miracles.

I was preparing the following photos for a post and almost didn't include them after deciding to post this story. I changed my mind because the simple 99 cent window clings I was featuring really speak to my heart.

When you Believe,

you will find hope,

and hope fills your heart with joy,

and peace.

I hope your heart is filled with

the spirit of the season.

Merry Christmas friends!

Trendy Red and White?

2010-12-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

It seems that every single magazine

that I've looked at in the past month

had Christmas displays of red and white only.

I like the look but find it impossible to

stick with a limited color scheme.

So I dug through my ornaments and sorted out

all the mostly red and /or white ones.

and came up with just enough

for the small tree we put up this year.

Then I discovered these oh so trendy, new, red and white gingham, stuffed stars and hearts with white embroidered snowflakes . I'm so glad there were a few empty spots that needed filled!

Of course you all know

so head on over to Sue's

for a very merry Rednesday!

Friends

2010-12-07T21:03:00.000-08:00

“Life is partly what we make it,

and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.”

Tennessee Williams

Please take a few moments to visit

Sue at It's a Very Cherry World

and see what she and the rest of our

red loving friends are sharing today.

I'm sure they'll add a bit of joy to your life.

They sure make me happy!

Pink on Pink

2010-12-03T21:55:00.000-08:00

Today I'm joining all the Pinkies at Beverly's How Sweet the Sound for the first time in a long while. I've always enjoyed seeing the lovely pink posts each Saturday. I haven't joined in more often because I'm too disorganized to sign up on time for the email links. When I heard Beverly was switching to the linky tool I knew I'd have a better chance to sneak in a post at the last minute! That's right, I'm a pink procrastinator! So I hopped over to Beverly's tonight to grab her link, only to learn we're supposed to post a holiday recipe. Now, if I had my act together earlier I would have known that. But you're probably lucky I didn't because I'm really not much of a cook anyway! So without further ado I give you...

A Pink Pop-quiz!

What kind of ornaments should be used on a pink Christmas tree?

Concentrate, this is really serious!*

Pink velvet balls? Good answer!

Pink ponies with packages? Yes!

Pink snowmen? Absolutely!

Ha! Gottcha! This one is too heavy for the branches!

We'll just wrap this sweet package up and put her under the tree!

My daughter and my new niece

say you all get a pink star for your answers

and for putting up with my verbose introduction to this post!

They also wish you a Merry Christmas

from the bottom of their little pink hearts!

Please click on the link at the top to visit Beverly and see what all the pink lovers are sharing!

*I just have to add this little disclaimer. I don't usually dress my daughter in orange t-shirts over red and blue snowmen but she chose this outfit this morning for a PACIFIC club Christmas party at school. The club shirt is orange and, well, she wanted to be festive too!

In case you're wondering the PACIFIC club is:

Pals (regular students who assist in the special ed classes)

And

Challenged

Individuals having

Fun

In the

Community

A Late but Very Thankful Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

Introducing Miss Kathryn Grace,

my sister's first child.

She was due Nov. 15 but was in no hurry to make an appearance.

Sis was induced on Thanksgiving day but Kathryn was still taking her own sweet time. The doctor decided a C-section was in order and mom and baby are doing fine. According to her daddy, she was "21 inches and change" and 7lbs 13 oz.

Welcome to the family little Katie Grace!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T07:28:00.000-08:00

I hope your life is filled with

blessings this Thanksgiving.

These are some things I'm thankful for.

A home filled with the love of family and friends.

A little spice.

A bit of whimsy.

Memories of simple times.

The change of seasons.

Rest.

Fence vs. Lexus

2010-11-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

I woke up to our dogs going crazy and someone with a flashlight on our front porch at 12:30 this morning. Scared me to death! Someone had called the CHP (California Highway Patrol) and reported an accident.

I went out with the officers and they pointed at the fence with the flashlight and asked if I knew anything about it. About what? I couldn't tell what they were talking about.The big wooden posts were there. Then I realized the wire across the entire front of our property was gone. Still confused after the sudden wake up call I said, "They stole the hog wire?" Um, no.

The nice officers began leading me through the yard explaining what appeared to have happened. Here's the tire marks where someone came over the ditch. This pole had to have gone under the car but is still sort of upright.

Two 14 ft. Redwood trees were snapped off.

The car exited by taking out the fence on the side street.

The wire standing here is actually what was stretched across the front of the yard. The side street fence is flat on the ground.

Only the first pole on the right was hit by the car, the rest were damaged as the tightly stretched fencing snapped across the yard. Our neighbor came over this morning and said he had called. He heard the noise at midnight and ran outside just in time to see a Lexus spin out and take off. We found a bit of broken lights but that's it. There has to be some damage to that car though! I can't believe we slept through it. Even the dogs didn't bark until the CHP showed up at the door. The officer said he was afraid the dogs were going to come through the window and get him. If an officer with a gun would think twice about facing our dogs, at least I can take comfort in knowing any bad guys would too!

My plan for today was to post on what's been going on the last week here then visit blogs but Hubby stayed to home to take care of all this so I've get to get out there. I'll be around soon!

Hehehe, I'm in so much trouble!

2010-11-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

Two quick things!

One - I love my van because it can haul big things so easily!

Two - Big things take up a lot of space in the house.

Do yo think Hubby will notice his recliner missing?

I spotted this lovely love seat two blocks from home this morning for $50! Right color, right style right wood, hardly used. I couldn't just leave it there! I've got to get moving and start rearranging furniture so I can get it in the house before Hubby comes home! It's so much easier for him to deal with my furniture addiction when he can see where the heck it's going to fit! Wish me luck getting it up stairs and in through the door! (Oh, sorry Berries and Alaina...it's YELLOW! LOL!)

Where Has October Gone?

2010-10-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you friends for all the sweet comments and emails. After two weeks of fighting nasty colds my daughter is back at school and I'm able to put down the Kleenex box! Lucky for you I wasn't in the mood for taking photos. Lucky for me my mom has spent the last month or so going back and forth, up and down the state and is letting me share some of her photos so I have something to post!

Mom and dad spent a few days in Carmel

for Walter and Tracy's wedding.

They visited the mission and had a beautiful time at the coast.

I just love the verdigris on the bell

in contrast to all the warm terracotta colors.

Walter and Tracy enjoying dinner

and the sunset over the Pacific.

They were married on the beach the next day.

Then mom and dad headed up to Chico in

Northern California to watch

John, Rochelle and Dane run in the Mozart Mile.

Trent played in the band.

The Mozart Mile is a fundraiser for the arts

and is held in Bidwell Park.

Last stop, Southern California

for a baby shower.

Three more weeks, Sis!

Thanks to my family for this post. Love you guys!

Vintage Slipper Chairs and a Wedding

2010-10-06T22:39:00.000-07:00

Remember these?

Lovely but worn out slipper chairs from an estate sale for $15 each.

They now have a fresh lease on life in a scrumptiously soft chenille. (Please ignore the floor lamp stuck awkwardly behind them, I had just picked up the little table at another estate sale and wasn't done rearranging when I grabbed my camera!) The pretty, but ripped and dirty turquoise velvet didn't fit my color scheme and the upholstery really need to be redone to keep the padding in shape. I loved the lines and they seemed really sturdy to me. The manufacturer's tag said "Comfort Chair Co., Inc., Hickory, N.C. I couldn't find anything on the company but I knew North Carolina is associated with quality furniture.

I took them to Tracy's dad, a professional upholsterer, to see what he thought. The first thing he did was throw them up on some saw horses and try to twist them apart. He seemed surprised they passed the test and said that chairs of this design without arms don't always have the support they need. I think when I called him and asked him to look at some $15 chairs he didn't expect much! He said they were probably made in the 50's judging by the materials used and they were well worth the cost of reupholstering them. The only design change we made was to omit the tufting on the seat. I paid a couple of hundred each to have them done. I know that's not pocket change, and is way over the price of a slipcover, but at a total of about $275 each they were way under anything comparable I could find.

Like the tufted one on the right for $2365... plus fabric!

See, you were thinking I was crazy but I do know thrifty when I find it! And that's why I'm linking up with Leigh for Thrifty Thursday in Bloggeritaville. Please pay her a visit see all the thrifty finds and crafts at her link party.

One last thing before I forget. I'm happy to say that Tracy is, finally, officially my sister-in-law. Congratulations to Tracy and my brother Walter! If you'd like to see photos of their wedding in Carmel a few weeks ago you can check out Erika Jackson Photography. Make sure you scroll all the way to the end. The barefoot on the beach photos are my favorites, although the winery ones are great too. wedding photography has sure come a long way since I got married!

Hugs,

Dawn

Last Look at Summer

2010-10-05T10:23:00.000-07:00

It's a grey, rainy day here so I thought I'd share a few photos from my son's recent luau birthday party.

A friend's son showing off what he learned at swimming lessons this summer.

Oh to be young and fearless!

The whole group, except me of course, that's one of the advantages of being the photographer!

And finally, the new patio. It was so nice to set up tables and be able to walk with out falling into big cracks or off the edge! It was a great end to a wonderful summer and the timing was perfect. We've had thunderstorms and rain the last few days. Time to switch gears and focus on all those inside activities like planning for the holidays, Christmas shopping and ... I suppose cleaning out a few closets. As much as I love summer the extra daylight seems to make us run around like crazy. I'm looking forward to the shorter days and more time to relax in the evenings. Hope you're getting to relax some too!

I had planned on spending some time visiting after I did this post, it's been forever and I'm really missing all of you. But...Hubby just came home, it's hard to mow in the rain so he took the day off. It's hard for me to concentrate on my comments when he's sitting behind me, not saying a word, but mentally willing me to get off the computer so he can have a turn before the kids get home!
Hugs,
Dawn

Double Double, Toile and Trouble ~ We Have Winners!

2010-10-01T21:58:00.000-07:00

Double the Birthdays, double the prizes and double the trouble for sure! Poor Mona, I really put her through the wringer on this one. She had never done a giveaway before but she came through with flying colors and once she got over the fright of it all she learned how to work her blogger magic! You can teach an ~~old witch~~ sweet lady new tricks! LOL! Used to be her friend indeed! Make sure you go by to meet her winner and see all that she went through to do it. I forgot to tell her about the random number generator!

As much as I would have like to be right there with Mona doing our drawings we're separated by half a state and millions of crazy drivers so I had to call upon my own little Witchie Poo to do the honors.

Only six entries so it's pretty good odds. Aren't the six of you glad I haven't been around visiting much lately? Mona had sixty something! And the winner is....

Congratulations! I will have your groovy witch in the mail Monday. I hope the kids have a great time with her!

If you haven't been by Arbor House Lane you should go and see the spells this great friend casts on old ugly furniture! It's amazing! And for a cackle or two stop by All the Girls Chit Chat where she's been known to hang out with a bunch of clowns like...um...me, not that I've been there much lately either, really I have been busy, catching toads and newts and such.

Thanks to my other five loyal followers! A few of you mentioned you have October birthdays. Next year you'll have to break out the brooms with us! My mom and cousin are also October girls so we get to celebrate all month long! As for Mona, she's really not a witch, at least I don't think so...

When I was looking for old postcards online I came across this poem.

October's child is born for woe,

And life's vicissitudes must know,

But lay on Opal on her breast,

And hope will lull those woes to rest.

No wonder Mona and I became friends, both up in the wee hours of the night blogging and worrying together! I'm putting an opal at the top of my Birthday list! I think I'd like a white one this time. Are you reading this hubby? I have a pink opal ring from my aunt but I caught in on a card file drawer at the library in college and about ripped my finger off. It bent and I couldn't wear it any more. I should have put it on a chain so it could lay on my chest! Think of all the beauty rest I could have had since then!

I also found that the old postcards list Hops as October's flower. Did you know that Mona?

Well, I probably lost all the January through September girls, and the November and December ones too, so I'll end this tribute to October.

My daughter had to start decorating for Halloween tonight so we strung some fake cobwebs next to the real ones on the porch. The fake palm trees and parrots from last weekend's luau for my son's birthday are still up in the back yard. Can you imagine what my neighbors think? Doesn't matter, I've got all you! And I promise, promise, promise I will find time to visit this weekend, right after the tiki huts are packed away.

Alexandra Stoddard, A Wonderful Read

2010-09-22T06:30:00.000-07:00

I just love this fall button Sue made for Rednesday, it has such beautiful colors in it. Please visit her at It's a Very Cherry World to see what everyone is sharing today!

Hmm...I wonder, is it coincidence that most of my favorite design books have red covers? Or is it just that great minds think alike?

I recently found the Alexandra Stoddard book at an antiques and collectibles mall. Barb, at Bella Vista, had recommended her to me at a time when I was feeling particularly overwhelmed with my house. This is not a design book full of photographs, although there are lovely illustrations. This book is meant to read and read I have.

Stoddard wrote that our homes are , "...an attitude and a mind-set you can create and live in and love everyday."

She says that houses become homes when they "envelop our personality".

"Whatever is right and good about our lives, whatever is authentic and beautiful, will be reflected in the atmosphere as well as in the details that mirror our souls in meaningful, tangible, physical ways."

Wow! Do you think bout reflecting your soul when you're hustling through the store or fighting off a crowd of like-minded bargain shoppers at a yard sale? Me either! Frankly, I've done enough compulsive shopping, thrifty and otherwise, that I could probably reflect several souls without spending another penny. Instead I'm taking stock of what we have, what we love, and how we want to really live in this home.

Part of that assessment for me is time management. Blogging became an addiction and I was spending so much time at it that I lost track of why I started doing it. I've seen that a few bloggers have signed off permanently, feeling that blogging has become a drain on them for one reason or another. Others simply take a break and return when "real life" allows.. some don't return for months, if at all. Blogging does take a lot of time and that has been the subject of many, many posts lately.

I would say that blogging should be another reflection of your soul and as such it changes with the daily challenges we face. There are no rules. Don't feel that you must post often or on any schedule. Don't feel that you have to trade comment for comment. Post when your soul stirs you, be it serious or lighthearted. Visit when you have time, comment if you have something to say, and just hang out without commenting if you feel like it. Enjoy the experience as you would enjoy a chance meeting with a friend. Let it brighten your day, not weigh you down. Let it be part of all that is " authentic and beautiful" inside you.

Hugs

Dawn

Stealth Cat

2010-09-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

I went out this morning to check on the progress of the patio. The guys had worked past dark last night and I never got a chance to see how far they got. All of a sudden our 1 year old cat, Mickey, ran by and flung himself into the hole where the sprinkler was removed.

Is he hiding from someone? Yes, but it's not what you think. He's not afraid of anyone. He's the terror of the neighborhood. He spent yesterday chasing squirrels out of the pecan tree but this morning he was ambushing bigger game...

the dreaded yellow lab beast. These two have such a weird relationship. I really think Mickey thinks he's a dog. Sunny is like his big brother. They chase and wrestle and steal each others' food just like real brothers. Sometimes Mickey is meowing at the door and I think he wants out, then when I open it Sunny comes in and Mickey is happy. He didn't want out, just wanted to be with big brother.

Mickey often ambushes the dogs from a chair, the bed or the back of the couch. He's never tried an aerial attack from this height though! Notice the "wild" cat hiding against the wall. As I said, Mickey terrorizes the whole neighborhood. He doesn't take off as much since that last vet visit...the one where they "fixed" his desire to wander. But anything at home is fair game.

Even Oreo, who doesn't put up with the sharp kitty teeth biting at her ears near as well as Sunny does. At least these two look like they're related, sort of. She is a good big sister and tells him to behave, in no uncertain terms.

So anyway, you can see we're making progress on this project.

But there is still a lot to do. Did I mention we're having a big luau birthday party for my son here on the 25th? Why do we do this to ourselves?

A Patio's Reprieve!

2010-09-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Never leave a scheduling job to men. I'm off to buy a calendar for hubby and the cement guy... look for new patio photos after NEXT weekend!

A Patio's Demise

2010-09-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

Looking pretty shabby!

All cracked up and sliding down hill.
But it's not your fault.
At least you've still got your sense of (California) humor.
I know because you laugh every time I trip and stub my toe.

By Friday night it will all be water under the bridge.

I'll never forget you, at least not until the new patio/BBQ area/walkway is poured on Saturday.

Yes, the sun is setting on your pecan covered past but not to worry, you're being recycled. You'll be "green", you'll be trendy, you'll be useful again! And really isn't that what we all want? To have a purpose in life! I know, I know, becoming a concrete footing isn't exactly glamorous, but someone has to do it, right?

Red Signs of Fall

2010-08-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's Rednesday!

If you love a pop of red as much as I do please visit Sue

and check out the list of other Rednesday participants!

When the red barn flag goes up...

the pomegranates start turning red...

and some are even splitting open...

you know fall is close.

It's almost time to put away the pool toys

and start getting cozy for family movie night!

Good thing I finally learned how to open these things

without ruining the return envelope

Do you have family movie night or game night?

We have several game nights each week and movie night a few times a month.

The kids love it!

Vintage Dishtowel Giveaway!

2010-08-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

If you love vintage mid-century decor you've probably seen the the fabulously fun items featuring perfect women from that time, in perfect clothes, with perfect hair and perfect makeup but spouting a not so traditional attitude.

My friend Sandi from Bearly Sane has found two such ladies pictured on some great dishtowels and she's giving them away! Click on the button or her name to get the details and check out her wonderful bear creations while you're there!

oops, forgot the links the first time, they're up now...click away!

What? No photos?

2010-08-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever posted with no photos before but don't worry...the pretties are over at Erica Jackson Photography. You can go by there and check out engagement photos of my brother Walter and my soon to be-feels like she has been for a long time already-SIL Tracy taken in Old Sacramento. They're so cute together!

California Pottery Crocks and a Chicken Love Triangle

2010-08-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

Old crocks have such a nostalgic appeal even though they are such utilitarian pieces. We were lucky to find several that Hummer and Hobo had used. At least one came from the California Pottery Company which operated a plant here in Merced from about 1920 to 1929. Hubby believes they were used for curing olives from the two olive trees on our property. I've always wanted to display them together but I had trouble finding a spot because they're so big.

When Hubby pulled this old wood stove/shin bruiser out of our living room fireplace I knew I had a place to display the crocks.

The fireplace that can't be used as is and we're not sure if we're going to restore it. Now for the pretty part...

The crocks by themselves were looking rather dull. I tried some old silk roses I had but it was a long swag and just didn't work. I thought about silk sunflowers but the prices were outrageous for the long stemmed ones so the crocks stayed empty for a long time.

Just yesterday I came across these real sunflowers at Raley's. They have a section of "Farmer's Market" bouquets that each have just one type of flower but you can mix and match bouquets at a a price of 3 for $12. I think they'll dry well enough to use through fall.

They looked so nice that Miss Henrietta moved her bed over for a closer view...

and a handsome new fellow found his way in. Hank doesn't know bout him yet but Henrietta says she and Alejandro are just friends.

I don't know, they're looking pretty cozy to me!

And the crocks look nicer now too!

Goodwill Trip'n

2010-08-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

No, these aren't thrifty finds. They're donations. I'm going to drop them off tomorrow (errand day!) and take off before they start laughing. Many of the items are already marked with our Goodwill's signature sharpie. Most of this came from my daughter's walk-in closet but a lot of the clothes are mine. The rest of the closets in our house are only 3 ft. wide. Oh the sacrifice we make for "character". This is the result of just a few hours of sorting through things that were in the way.

For the first time since I quit working to stay home with the kids I've actually made a schedule for myself instead of flying by the seat of my pants. I've tried various plans over the years but got bogged down in perfecting the systems and never made it past the planning stage. When I get to the paper mountain in the office I'm sure I'll be able to fill a large garbage can with journals and loose paper with titles like, "Get Organized 2005!", or "Operation Declutter 1998". Every other page will have notes on decorating themes and projects. The sad thing is the lists are all the same. A few projects have been accomplished but mostly it's the same thing rehashed on a fresh clean sheet, like that would make the difference.

This time really feels different though. My husband and I made up our own plan that will work for us and our family. After two hectic, stressful weeks I realized it's now or never. I have to quit hiding behind the computer screen and shopping bags and deal with life, however messy it is or how tired I am. I've got more accomplished the last two days than I have for the last six months. And it feels good. You may see a little less of me around blogland in the coming months but I'm hoping when I do make the rounds you'll find I'm in more organized Cottage State of Mind. You might even get to see some whole room shots too! Not perfect rooms, but neat, comfortable rooms!

Party, Party, Party!

2010-08-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a week of parties around here and I'm afraid I haven't spent much time visiting. If you've been by and left a comment please know I'll try to get by soon. We're busy getting ready for the start of school on Monday and have another party to attend Saturday. My modem died and had to be replaced so I haven't even started visiting all Barb's rooster party guests yet!

My mom held a baby shower for my sister and her sweet hubby last weekend. I couldn't find an invitation I liked so I scanned scrapbook stickers into my paint program and played with the colors some. I cut away the background electronically and added in a field of little dots and the wording. I love playing with graphics! But you know that already!

Here's the happy couple waiting for their little bundle of joy!

I wonder what the record is for the tallest newborn?

With mommy at 6'2" and daddy even taller, I think we might have a winner here!

It was a day filled with precious things and sweet people.

Unfortunately, I only got photos of things before the party started.

I spent the rest of the day as game hostess and secretary! It was a family shower with hubbies and kids so we had lots of fun guessing "How big is mamma's belly?", unscrambling words relating to babies, and playing round after round of Baby Bingo for cool prizes. When it was all over they had lots of lovely gifts to pack up for the drive home. As for "mamma's belly", I'm not allowed to say but I do know it will soon be too big for her to climb into daddy's monster truck!

I hope you're having lots of fun with family and friends as summer starts to wind up. I know there's many more weeks on the calendar before fall but for me, having school start mid-August really puts an end to the carefree feeling of summer. Forecast for the first week ~ 102 plus!

BYOR Party!

2010-08-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

That's Bring Your Own Rooster Party!

Our wonderful Barb at Bella Vista

is hosting another soiree in honor of our proud feathered friends.

It's becoming the hottest thing in August!

Please visit Barb and check out the list of party-goers on her sidebar.

I tried to be funny last year

and I think I ended up being

the one wearing the

proverbial rooster lampshade

on my head so

I'm keeping my beak zipped today!

Enjoy!

Alphabe-Thursday's Rainbow Summer School

2010-08-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up today with Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday's Rainbow Summer School. Today's color is

ORANGE!

Bright

Warm

Eye-catching

Stylish

Energetic

Young

Confident

Smart

Sweet

Fun

Vivacious

Sorry, I got carried away talking about my mom!

You thought I was talking about the color orange?

Well, I suppose it's all those things too!

Please stop by Jenny's and read what everyone else has to say about orange.

From the Attic ~WWII Letters

2010-07-31T23:14:00.000-07:00

I was in the attic getting something for my mom yesterday and on impulse I grabbed this stack of papers to bring down and read. I've used my paint program to white out addresses and highlight some information.

This appears to be a resume for a friend of the family, "Kitty", who was like a grandmother to my MIL. A couple of boxes of her things ended up in our attic. Note the sales job as it is the connection between her and the author of of the letters that will follow later in the post.

Included with the letters was also a WPA identification card from 1940,

and a tiny address book with entries written every so lightly in pencil.

These letters are to Kitty from M.M., a woman she apparently worked in sales with in New York. M.M. and her husband had opened their own wholesale business in Denmark. This traces her steps through Europe as she sought to return to the U.S during WWII. She was allowed to leave by the German government but could only take two suitcases of clothes. She was not allowed to take photographs or money with her. Her husband stayed behind to look after their business interests.

She describes waiting in line for nine hours to board the Manhattan ocean liner for the voyage to back to America. The ship was meant for 1200 passengers and carried 2197 war refugees at double the usual fee. They waited an entire day in line, with many people passing out. Those who did were carried aside and ended up at the back of the line when they came to. She writes, "We were not stopped at Gilbralter for I believe they felt that all foreign ships should get out as soon as possible and England probably suspected dirty work down there....This was a week before war was declared."

She tells about the German army's invasion into Denmark and how they took over the food supply, transportation and the banks.

She speaks of receiving "innocuous" letters from her husband, meant to get word to her of what was happening and still make it past the censors.

She also writes about hostages from Holland being executed and what she feels should happen when the war is over.

There are several letters and M.M. often laments that Kitty hasn't written back. This 1940 letter from a cruise line confirms that Kitty had sailed with them in 1923. It is addressed to M.M.and shows that she went to some lengths to find Kitty. The letters cover a span of about 12 years, from 1938 to 1950 and I only remember one mentioning that Kitty had finally written.

It was strange reading these little snapshots of history through the eyes of one woman. Knowing she wasn't receiving much response makes me wonder if she wasn't really just writing for herself, like many of us feel the need to do. We don't know if 60 or 70 years from now anyone will find our words in some digital archive that can access what will surely be obsolete technology by then. We only know we have the need to put our thoughts down in some form. I encourage you to make hard copies, paper copies, of your favorite writings and photos. Maybe someday they will be found in a box in an attic and mesmerize someone for an afternoon.

Rednesday ~ Dawn's New Helper

2010-07-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Sarah. I'm Dawn's new helper.
I used to live with Ana in A Petite Cottage.

It was fun helping in her Etsy shop

but now I'm Dawn's Rednesday assistant!

(Dawn just discovered Jenny Matlock's Alphabet Thursday Rainbow Summer School so she's linking up there today too. You'll find the Rednesday link to It's a Very Cherry World at the end of this post.Obviously, Dawn is still struggling with her organzational skills!)

It's a lovely day to take photos outside.

Dawn bought this gold rimmed cherry plate

at the Sacramento Antique Faire

the same day she got the pretty red

tablecloths from last week's Redndesday.

She also got this fruit bowl there too!
Notice the gold rim again.
She still likes gold and brass.
She's so old fashioned that way.
Ugh, this thing is getting heavy!

Uh, a little help here?
Dawn, don't walk away!
Was it something I said?
OK, you're not old fashioned,
just a little ...
traditional.

Whew! That's better. Now before you run back to Sue's It's a Very Cherry World to check out the other Rednedsay posts.I'm just going to kick back here for a while and enjoy the shade.

This assistant stuff is hard work!
I should have negotiated for a benefits package!
But don't tell Dawn I said that!

Third Time Posting is the Charm ~ Rednesday!

2010-07-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

Today I'm linking up with Sue at It's a Very Cherry World for another round of REDnesday. Please stop by to visit our wonderful hostess and check out the other links too!

I promised you a look at some of the things I found as Second Sunday this Month. I went hoping to find some red and white linens and it turned out to be my lucky day!

Yes, I was a happy camper at the end of the day! I've got more things to share, and some updates and some awards to pass on but I'm burning the candle at both ends these days and having a hard time getting to the computer. I hope you're all having a fun summer!

Hugs,

Dawn

Tolerance

2010-07-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

Rednesday and Thrifty Thursday ~ Fruit Stands

2010-07-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

Wednesday is REDnesday at Sue's ~ It's a Very Cherry World. Don't forget to visit Sue and see many more fabulous reds! And don't forget Thursday is Thrifty Thursday with Leigh at Tales from Bloggeritaville. You won't want to miss all the Thrifty finds and crafts!

I picked up this little fruit stand/candle holder at good will for a couple of dollars. It fit the theme and colors of our kitchen perfectly. I know a lot of people don't like theme decorating but I love it. There are so many styles that I like, it's hard to choose one for the whole house. Instead, each room has a different flavor, with similar color schemes. One of my favorite memories is traveling up and down Highway 99 through California's Central Valley. I've always lived in towns off 99 so when we visited family it meant a trip down the long stretch of road surrounded by farmland and little towns. I always loved reading the fruit stand signs as they marked our progress. They often were spread out, one word at a time for miles before you reached the little stands.

Cherries

Ahead

miles

1 more

mile

You

are

here!

We never stopped though.

Tourist traps, you know! We'd blow by at 50 maybe 55 mph and the signs would start all over again, assuring us the next farm had

FRESH FRUIT.

A few days after finding the fruit stand

I found this little guy for $1 at Strawberry Saturday.

He's not much from the front...

Actually, I guess his backside is his front...

And what a cute little vintage backside it is!

I think he's a Jack looking for his Jill, although his little pail could be for fruit.

So if you spot a one sided Jill during your thrifty travels down the highways and byways, past the fruit stands, I know someone one who'd love to be reunited with her, at a thrifty price of course!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-02T05:09:00.001-07:00

Have a Happy and Safe

4th of July!

Rednesday ~ From the Heart of a Friend

2010-06-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

I promised you all some prettier reds this week. No junk cars like last week (and yes, it's still there). Please pop over to Sue's It's a Very Cherry World to see some more pretty reds!

Nothing makes my heart beat faster than

thick red fringe and embossed velvet.

Unless it's this floral and fruit cottage print.

That also happens to be on my valances and is the

basis for the color scheme in most of my home.

But I don't think that's why Mona gave me the pillow

when we met at her home earlier this month.

My reaction to it was from the gut.

I snatched it off her couch, hugged it to my chest

and spun around declaring my love for it!

I think she gave it to me because I was drooling on it.

I was embarrassed by my obvious coveting of it.

I protested and said she didn't have to.

Being the sweetheart she is, she insisted I take it.

That's what friends do, overlook our foolishness and reward our exuberance with gifts from the heart. It is an absolutely wonderful fit here and has saved my formerly uncomfortable brown rocker from being posted for sale on Craig's List!

Thank you Mona, I will always cherish it! And I promise not to drool on your stuff next time.

What Would Childhood Be...

2010-06-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

Without Memories of

Vacations at the Beach?

I'm linking up today with Leigh's impromptu post where we can share our love of the ocean. Please go by Tales from Bloggeritaville

to read Leigh's heart wrenching post of about the Gulf Coast oil spill.

These photos are from the early 70's when we often vacationed at Avila Beach, California. I never wanted to get out of the water...

Hamsters and Night Lights

2010-06-25T05:56:00.000-07:00

It was a rough afternoon yesterday.

So different from the day we brought Buddy home

for my daughter's birthday last year.

All of life's questions wrapped up

in one little lifeless furball.

I try to keep the answers simple.

We talked about life and death, faith and heaven.

We've done so before but this was different.

And the questions kept coming.

No vague answers would do.

She wanted specifics.

It went on all evening,

long after we had said our goodbyes to him.

I cried at times .

I don't think she saw.

She was sad but seemed content.

I discovered this morning she had turned on

her bedroom light in the middle of the night.

Something she hasn't done in a really long time.

He was a good hamster.

We miss you Buddy.

Reaching Way Down Into the Rednesday Bag!

2010-06-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

Go ahead and laugh but it's the best I could do this week. I've so wanted to get back to participating in Rednesday with Sue and It's a Very Cherry World but just haven't had anything new to share.

So when my neighbor parked this on our side of the street I had to get some photos. The sign says make an offer! You can see some of our old chicken coops in the back. Hey, we're just outside the city limits, we can be as country as we like!

My neighbor told me it's a kit car called an Invader, but I forgot the year already, something in the 60's. It's made with VW parts. He bought a VW Bug for parts to get it running but he quickly got the bug running so well he deiced to keep it and get rid of this.

Looks like it could go fast, if it had an engine! Okay, I won't keep you any longer. And don't feel you need to comment, LOL! Okay, if you want to humor me say, "Nice red car!" or something like that! I really just wanted to say "Hello" to all my Rednesday friends. It's been a long time and I miss you all! I hope to have some PURDY red stuff to share next week!

My Two Favorite Men

2010-06-20T00:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day

to my two favorite men in the world.

Loving, dependable, supportive...

and willing to put up with what ever we ask of them!

If you have moment, turn up the volume and listen

to this great song about dads on my playlist.

One Man's Junk...

2010-06-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

is a great addition to another man's collection

and makes him grin ear to ear.

I didn't know about Hubby's sink collection

so he hauled me out to the old chicken coop

to share his fixtures.

He says he's going to use them for planters around the yard.

This is not where this post was headed when I started it. I just wanted one photo of the upside-down sink I noticed in his truck the other day...

Hubby was getting ready for work and asked if I had any change. I told him I didn't think so but when I picked up my purse it weighed about 20lbs. Oh yeah, I remembered I had hit a few thrift stores Friday. My daughter had been home sick for almost a week and I needed to get out.

Yes, I know, I hear the tsk, tsk, tsk coming from all sides.

So before he could give me a bad time I volunteered, "You know I have to shop just so I can get change for you." He shook his head and took the coins I offered up for his Pepsi fix.

A few minutes later I walked out with him as he left for work. That's when I spied it. I just shook my head. As he pulled out of the driveway he hollered, "My sink was free!" I hollered back, " I got your change right here buddy!"

We're hopeless. Just promise you won't call any TV shows on us before we get the stuff we're really attached to hidden so they can't find it...

A Birthday Wish

2010-05-29T23:16:00.001-07:00

I can't believe I almost forgot to send out a special Happy Birthday Wish to my youngest brother today.

W.W. and the soon

(are you two ever going to set that date?!)

to be Mrs. W.W.

Darn, now his birthday was yesterday, I didn't get this posted before midnight!

Happy (Be-lated) Birthday W.W.!

He's the baby of the four of us. I was 13 when he was born and he was only 5 when I went away to college so I really didn't get to watch him grow up but I did change a lot of his diapers! Now it's the two of us living near our parents and the middle two are at opposite ends of the state (and California is a loooong state).

I am so proud of this guy. He is a firefighter with Cal Fire. He worked his way up from being a volunteer to a Captain in about 10 years. He put a lot of time in serving the local community as a first responder and fighting wildfires all over the state when duty calls. If you've ever seen the national news in the summer you know California has a long fire season!

We love ya W.!

(We'll celebrate when you get home!)

Giveaway Winner

2010-05-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

A little over a year ago I stumbled into blogland while looking for decorating ideas. I had a pretty good idea where I was headed but I still enjoyed seeing how other people put things together. When I decided to do my own blog because it just looked like so much fun, Hubby was a bit skeptical. You see, I'm not the most enthusiastic housekeeper. I get distracted by the pretty things and loose sight of the laundry, dust and general clutter. I assured him blogging would be a good thing, it would give me a reason to make sure everything was in it's place and properly polished.

Fast forward to the here and now. Blogging has been a good thing for the most part but I've also learned a few things about myself. Like I'll go to great lengths to move clutter away from a shot but not take the time to actually put it away. I've also learned I'm susceptible to all your whims and ideas and am easily led astray. Combine that with an already present more is more philosophy and you get a cottage bulging at the seams.

Okay, okay, I'm admitting that maybe more can be too much and a little less "more" might keep my head from spinning like this all the time...

So I'm refocusing on where I was headed before and letting go of some things that, while beautiful, don't fit into my picture of what our home needs to be. Things similar to these...

I know by now you're thinking enough already, who won?! After crossing out my own comments, accidental multiples and chit chat with people who already entered I came up with 27 seven entries. Two newer friends sweetly told me to pass on them and give to friends who have known me longer. Ha ha!

All 27 of you are winners!

Even the silly girls at Cranberry Cottage and Arbor House Lane. Don't worry, I've got things to fit all your styles!

What are you waiting for? You heard me right. All 27 people who commented on my One Year Blogiversary Giveaway post prior to the deadline will receive a hand picked prize. Get me those addresses. My email is on my profile, click on "see my complete profile" at the top of the left sidebar to get there.

A few of you don't have blogs or profiles showing so make sure you let me know something about your style.

The next couple of weeks will be rather busy but I will try to have every thing in the mail by the end of June if not before.

LOL! You think I've lost it don't you. Don't worry, I'm fine, except my closet doors won't shut, corners are full, flat surfaces are covered and piles are starting to spill into the traffic patterns. Yard sales are too much work, I'm embarrassed taking things back to Goodwill and I can't enable loving family members any more. I felt so guilty the last time I let them leave my house with boxes that were intended for Goodwill!

So you all have nice weekends while I start sorting, choosing, scraping off price stickers and gathering shipping supplies...

Hugs,

Dawn

A Special Night

2010-05-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

My daughter attend her first prom last night. It was held for several special ed classes. Thank you to the staff and student volunteers for making this fun night possible!

If you haven't entered my giveaway yet please see the previous post or click the button on the sidebar. I'm afraid I'm terribly behind in my visits I will try to catch up as soon as possible. I miss knowing what you are all up to!

Thank You (Edited for comment issues)

2010-05-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a problem with some comments not showing up for some of us. My comments all come to my email so I'm seeing your entries even if they aren't showing up here. If it's not all straightend out within a few days and you think you left a comment but it's not showing please email me. As I re-post this it shows 14 comments but when I click on it only 7 are showing up. All 14 have gone to my email though. Is anyone else having problems?

May 19th, 2009 was the date of my first blog post. I can't believe it's been a whole year! I never expected to find such wonderful friends is cyberspace. Your blogs, comments and emails have filled me with love, joy, laughter and hope time and time again.

In honor of this amazing online community I'm celebrating with a gift for one of you. But what to choose?

Red? Pink? White? Blue?

Shabby? Shiny? Old? New?

How about I hand pick something specific to the winner's style? Sounds like fun to me. It may be something I've shared on my blog or a similar item. It could be brand new or a thrifty find. We'll all just have to wait and see!

If you'd like to enter just leave a comment on this post. Giveaway will end next Wednesday, May 26th, at 8:00 p.m. pacific time. One entry per person, just to keep it simple for me! I'll announce the winner on Thursday, May 27th.

Thank you all for being such great friends. Here's to many more years blogging for all of us!

Don't Rock the Boat!

2010-05-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

Oh my! While catching up tonight I came across this wonderful piece of art at Banner Haus news (look for the link on my right sidebar). Holly always seems to know what I need. Thank you Holly for saving all these wonderful vintage graphics for all to share.

I've been feeling a little pulled apart lately and boy does this picture capture it! You see, that dock is "Real Life" and the boat is "Virtual Reality". I'm trying to do too much at both sides and don't feel like I'm doing either well.

So what would Hilda do? Gently toss the pup to the dock, the picnic to the boat, do a belly flop and come up laughing! I'll be back in a few days after I towel off and figure out how to keep myself from being stretched too thin. Wait a minute, being stretched thin might not be bad after all, except I'd have to be stretched to about 11 feet to even resemble thin. LOL!

Enjoy the rest of the week friends, I'll be catching up with you as soon as I can.

Gone Rustic

2010-05-12T05:19:00.000-07:00

I hear the boys have been working in the feed house.

Let's check in on the progress.

Hmm...they didn't bother to lock it back up.

Some nice red here, after a good cleaning that is.

Well, this explains why the door wasn't closed.

Oh Honnneeeey.....?

Imagine That!

2010-05-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

Come listen to story 'bout a blogger named Blossom,

A poor farmer's wife, she barely kept him fed with possum.

Then one day she was surfing on the net,

Clicked on a link, and there her clay pots set.

Empty flower pots that is. Highlighted in blue you see. Linked right there on HGTV!

Well the first thing you know ol' Blossom's mind exploded!

Followers said, "She's hit the big time and gonna be loaded!"

Said, "Californy is the place you ought to be."

So they loaded up the sprouts and moved to Beverly.

Hills that is. Decorators. Blogging Stars.

Well now it's time to say good-bye to Blossom and her kin,

And they would like to thank you folks for kindly droppin' in.

You're all invited to her blog 'bout life's reality,

To have a heapin' helpin' of her hospitality.

Humor that is. Keeps it real. Blows your socks off.

Y'all go visit now, y'hear?

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T12:43:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day

All Our Love,

Hubby and Me

Daring Diva Party

2010-05-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

Today's the day girls!

Over at Note Songs, Shelia's having a

Daring Darling Bathroom Snapping Divas Party!

Did you dare?
I did.

Oh, I can't believe I did it but I did!

I guess there's a bit of Diva in me after all!

I had a hard time finding decorative items for our only bathroom. It's dominated by original blue tiles that go half way up the walls around the entire room. I would find things and bring them home only to discover the blues in them were too different. I tried simple, fancy, retro, kids prints, anything that came close but nothing fit the style of the room or colors of the tile.

Then we had to replace the old tub fixtures and I ended up with a chunk of the old tile to take with me when I shopped. Once I found the mini rose print with the right shades of blue, creamy yellow and grayish green I knew where I was headed. It was sure easier shopping with a sample of the material instead of that chunk of tile in my purse!

My favorite thing is the white lace curtains used as shears. The window faces west and in the late afternoon we get the most amazing sunlight filtered through the trees outside. I love the way the beautiful shadows of the lace dance on the walls when it's breezy.

What do you think Shelia? Can you love dancing lacy shadows? You bet your tiny cottage bathroom you can! Thank you for daring us to find our divaness in a most unlikely way. You are such a sweetie!

Please click on the Bathroom Beauty Snapper button to visit sweet Shelia and see who else dared to snap away!

Playing in the Garden...

2010-05-02T16:01:00.000-07:00

with a paint program.

Original Photo

Softened and Warmed

As an Oil Painting

I'm so happy my red roses have finally bloomed.

My Love

2010-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy 21st Anniversary

April 29, 1989

"High Noon"

People usually cry at weddings, but crying from laughing so hard?
Who knew priests did stand-up comedy?

It's always been about the music, right sweetie?

So kick back

and let my playlist take you back in time

to those simple days when it was you and me

and all we cared about was getting tickets

to the next big concert.

Remember...

The first time we met ~ The Oakridge Boys and Judds in Manteca

A chance encounter ~ Kenney Rogers in Fresno

Our first date ~ Randy Travis in Fresno

Admitting we REALLY liked one another ~ Returning from the George Strait concert with my little sister and brothers pretending to be asleep in the back seat of the Pinto!

Fireworks (literally) ~ Chris LeDoux at the Hanford Fox Theater ~ set the stage curtains on fire!

Getting lucky ~ being plucked from the nose bleed section of Arco Arena and given front row seats by one of Garth's road crew after working late and not being able to change into our western duds, having car trouble, and driving the old pickup with no AC 125 miles in the middle of August.

So what do you say?

Dinner at Bubba's

where the country music is loud and clear?

It will be just you and me...

and the kids (back to reality),

you know how much they like the mechanical bull.

A Rednesday Gift

2010-04-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are REDnesdays at It's a Very Cherry World. It's a time when we can all share our favorite red items with Sue and see how others use the color red too.

This little tote with it's matching zippered pouch was a surprise gift from my friend Tammy. She has a wonderful Ebay shop where she sells totes, pillows, blankets and more. Don't you love those red roosters and hens? You can click on the photo to enlarge it and see how cute they really are! She included them when I ordered a couple of larger grocery totes from her. Wasn't that really sweet? Hmm, I wonder how she knew I liked reds and yellows, not to mention roosters?

Can't you picture shopping the farmer's markets with this summery sunflower print?

Don't let this sweet floral pattern fool you. It's a workhorse, with reinforced stitching to make it nice and sturdy.

See what I mean? That's a couple of 2 ltr. soda bottles and there's still room for more.

And just because she really is extra sweet, Tammy included a set of stationary she made with vintage kitty images. Of course the kitties have red bows!

Please visit Tammy's Ebay Shop, Prims and Pretties by clicking here. She makes all her own items and there is love in every stitch!

The Generosity of Bloggers

2010-04-26T19:58:00.000-07:00

I got home from running errands Monday just in time to meet my mailman. He had not one, but two packages for me. Even though I was expecting them, I was once again tickled by the sweetness and generosity of our fellow bloggers.

Denise Marie, from What's Blooming at Beagle Run Cottage, sent me a beautiful card with personal sentiments inside. I had won a giveaway for her 100th follower and she included several wonderful items in the prize box.

That's me with my perfectly coiffed hair in my spotless laundry room tying perfect bows on my fluffy guest towels that my kids wouldn't dream of soiling. Hey, a girl can dream right?

Just look at all these sweet (marshmallow bunny lollipop -yum!) things. I know my daughter will want them all! She has pink and green in her room so the Bloom sign will probably find it's way there. The bunny tassel is all mine though! Those little chenille tendrils are the softest little things! They look like pipe cleaners but they're more like soft little ropes.

The variety of materials in this tassel is scrumptious! You'll be seeing this hanging around my blog for a long time. Thank you, Denise Marie, for a wonderful little reminder of our "blooming" friendship!

I'll leave you with a sneak peek at what came in the second package. More on these great items and the wonderful friend who made them soon.

Weekend Routine

2010-04-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Start by doing what's necessary;

then do what's possible;

and suddenly you are doing the impossible.

Saint Francis of Assisi

Working on the necessary this weekend.

Stylish Finds and a Yellow Butterfly

2010-04-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

After last week's self-analysis about stuff the last thing I should have done is gone treasure hunting. I can't even blame it on impulse shopping because this one was a lot of work! In our area, United Methodist Women's estate sales are the place to go for stylish thrifty finds, or stylish expensive finds depending on the loot! People start lining up hours ahead of the opening. By the time I dropped the kids at school I had to park several blocks away.

While patiently moving through the house shoulder to shoulder with mostly women, I overheard a man on the phone with his wife. He said that he had found a couple of things for himself and was heading home because it was as crowded as a rock concert. Then he says, "No, it's all guy stuff, nothing really here for girls." Several of us "girls" looked at each other then busted out laughing. He nearly knocked us over heading for the door!

Just look at that list. It didn't even mention the tables full of fancy white ironstone. There were three soup tureens. Three! All with matching lids and ladles. It was all I could do to pass on them, knowing how much joy they bring to so many of you. But they weren't on my list. (See, I'm trying!)

This was though! I was hoping to find a small hutch or bookcase for storage in my living room. The glass was already out and replaced with fabric. I'll switch it out with some from my *ahem* stash. Yea, a no sew project. I actually found it on my second trip of the day. I had left but gone back to check on a painting that someone else had requested be held for them. It was gone but the place had cleared out a bit so I decided to check out the back bedrooms that I had never even made it to the first time. I also had chairs on my list.

Woo Hoo, coordinating chairs. I'm telling you, the lady of this house had serious style! So much of what she had is popular again, even the colors. Unfortunately, they're not my colors so these will be slip covered. Did I mention I don't sew well, and that I'm a procrastinator, and that a lot of my clutter is unfinished projects... Hubby knows. Which is why there was dead silence on the phone when I called to tell him I'd be by work to switch the van for the truck.

After a few seconds he says, "um, where are you?"

"Around the corner at the bank." Oops! More silence. Okay, I had started out with limited cash so I would stay in my budget. The chairs were only $15 each but the "perfect" hutch put me a little over.

So after stealing hubby's truck I made my way back for the third time. I had left a deposit and got lucky with parking. I hadn't noticed the fertilizer spreader in the truck so I had to move it to the cab. Then I remembered the tailgate release is broken and you have to use a screwdriver to push a lever way over on the side while lifting the handle at the same time. I dug through some tools in the cab but couldn't find one that would work. One of the volunteers running the sale finally went to get one from his car. In the meantime I made small talk with the poor man holding the hutch on the dolly.(It's small but heavy!) I mentioned I might paint it. He says, " You mean re-stain it." Um no, paint it, white. I really felt bad for him, it was killing him!

I thought about the lady who had lived in that house. Everything she had could be seen on today's home decor blogs. Somehow I didn't think she'd mind. In fact, I thought she would get a kick out of it. After I unloaded and finished taking pictures I noticed a large yellow butterfly on the lilac bush. When I started blogging I shared a photo of a yellow butterfly. A dear blog friend told me it's a sign someone has passed. It was fluttering so slow I couldn't help but put my hand out.

It landed on me!

Do you think she knows about the white paint?

I do.

Rednesday ~ Trend Setting

2010-04-20T18:06:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting to link up to Rednesday again. Woo Hoo! Please visit Sue when you're done here to see what everyone else has shared. Her place is always so Cherry... and cheery too!

The Clutter Cat is on patrol, gently reminding everyone that this spot has been reclaimed as usable space. When I clear out enough room in the office this set up will be moved in there. You want to see the office? Too bad, I have a little pride left. I'll share it when it's been reclaimed too!

So this is the corner I shared last week. Much better don't you think. Karen, from Some Days are Diamonds gave me great ideas on getting office paper work organized. Yes, that is a dish drainer holding my files. The beauty is the files stand up, stay separated, and can easily be read and accessed. Plus the limited slots make you simplify your filing and keeps it manageable. If it's not easy, I probably won't get it done! I wanted to give you a link to Karen's cute set up but I couldn't find the right post and she's off to an artists' retreat so I'll ask her when she gets back. Oh, and if you look real hard you'll spot some red in this corner!

I couldn't resist this last photo I found while cleaning. What a trend setter! I know you all love red polka dots! This is me in about 1st or 2nd grade. I'm pretty sure mom made the dress but I'll have to ask her. I still have to wrestle those cowlicks into place every morning. By afternoon they're back. If only feathered bangs would come back in style, I'd be rockin' them!

Happy Rednesday!

Dawn

What's a Mom To Do?

2010-04-20T05:43:00.000-07:00

This morning my daughter and hubby were eating breakfast together while I was in another room. I heard hubby say, "Next time use your fingers instead of your fork." Now, I knew she was eating waffles with syrup so I'm thinking what the heck is going on in there? Then I hear her sweet little voice saying, " You like syrup, don't you Sunny?" Gotta love them all, even if hygiene isn't their strong suit.

2010-04-17T23:24:00.000-07:00

My daughter and I saw " How to Train Your Dragon" tonight and loved it. Part action/fantasy, part father/son coming to terms, part dragon whisperer. We were the only two in the theater because we chose the 2-D version. We had such fun! I still thought it was great. 3-D would be spectacular!

Perspective, A Happy Ending

2010-04-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

Perspective is a funny thing.

Things aren't always what they appear.

Let's play a little word association game. If I said, "perfectionist" you might say, "neat freak". But is there any chance you would say "hoarder"? Not likely. The thing I've been most struck by on the shows about hoarding is that for many it really seems to be rooted in perfectionism.

One lady spoke of her dish collection (gasp! I hear all you tablescapers holding your breath. LOL!).

She bought tons of dishes. Even though no one could possibly come to dinner at her house. Even though she barely had room to make dinner for two. Even though those two had to eat in separate rooms. Why? The dishes were a symbol of the perfect dinner she would make for her family.

The need for that perfect family dinner was so strong it affected her perspective. She could no longer see the stacks of things in her kitchen that actually made it dangerous to cook. She could no longer see the precarious path from the front door, to the one spot to sit, to the stove. All she could see was the Norman Rockwell moment those dishes represented. So the dishes became more clutter.

The good news is she was making progress with the help of her daughter by the end of the show. But it made me wonder.

Where is the point that the perfectionism which drives the "neat freak" to be critical and controlling becomes the perfectionism that drives the "hoarder" to be lackadaisical and disconnected?

I received an advertisement for the Real Simple magazine in the mail recently. It had a Finnish proverb that said, "Happiness is the point between having too little and having too much". Well that makes it real simple! I hung it on my fridge with a bunch of other clutter.

So..I guess it all depends on your perspective.

Any one want some tea?

Have you ever...

2010-04-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

brought home old fabric or wall paper books thinking you'll use them for...something?

held on to an item because someone else has one?

put away the nuts only to find 4 more cans in the back of the pantry?

been smitten by something that wasn't the direction you were heading

felt the adrenaline rush while treasure hunting?

kept friends at arms' length because your housework wasn't up to par?

given your kid the present you wanted but never got?

brought home a bathtub just because you could?

thought about bringing a 50 lb chunk of concrete into the house so no one would steal if from the spot where it's sat for 50 plus years?

stopped on the side of the road to pick up friends?

felt like life was passing you by while you're looking for the key?

Hubby and I watched a few episode of TLC's Hoarding: Buried Alive recently. When the narrator said compulsive shopping was part of the problem Hubby laughed. When they came to the part about possible genetic causes I laughed. We're in big trouble.

I really enjoyed all your comments on the last post. I'm sorry I haven't been by to visit yet. I've been making plans to make sure we don't end up on that show. I got a glimpse of the light at the other end of the tunnel, and it was coming from a fellow blogger's halo! There are angels among us!

And just so you know, Mona, I will save what is truley important and treat it that way. And Garden of Daisies, your imagery of a "dead cat under mountains of garbage in the living room" should keep several of us from continuing to brake for yard sales!

Hugs

Dawn

Ripe for the Pickin'

2010-04-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

Recipe booklets from the attic.

For some reason lately I keep getting comments about pickers. Even my mom and dad have mentioned the History Channel's "American Pickers" show to me recently. So after a long weekend I settled down in front of the TV last night to see what all the fuss was about. I gotta say I loved the show.

I asked Hubby if those guys were to show up here, could I start making deals or tell them to come back when he's here. His answer? "Tell them to leave and not come back." He said it with a smile but I know he was serious. Oh, he would love showing them around but sell something to them? Never.

I also watched TLC's "Hoarding: Buried Alive" last night... More thoughts on that later.
Hugs,
Dawn

Vintage Chocolate Posters from the ...Wash House?!

2010-04-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

Ha! You thought I was going to say from the attic didn't you?

What do you mean you already knew?

Buddy told you yesterday? Humph!

I wondered why the key board was full of seeds!

I was quite surprised to find a gem like this out there.

But before you go getting jealous,

and saying it's not fair I've got an attic and a wash house,

let me give you a dose of reality...

from the door...

to the farthest corner,

the wash house is stacked to the rafters

with stuff

and dust

and cobwebs.

Ewe!

Now I love chocolate as much as the next girl,

probably more,

but I'm not dressing up

in a pink bunny outfit to get it.

Now this is better.

Make him work for your affection!

Santa Baby, flattery will get you everywhere!

And if all else fails,

whip up your own little love potion

and hide it in a box of chocolates!

No calories were consumed in the making of this post,

a few dust mites, maybe!

Psst, It's Me, Buddy

2010-04-08T17:03:00.000-07:00

That's right, the hamster. I may not get as much blog time as those smart dogs or that cute cat but if you want the 411 on what's going down in the 209 I'm the guy you need to see.

But first check out this cute trick. Look, I'm a potato! Naw, not really, I just run so fast even the sports setting on Dawn's camera can't catch me!

Anyway, back to the 411. I sit right here in the office all the time so I get to hear all the good stuff when Dawn's on the phone. Right now she's staring out the window muttering something about "bloggers block". Sounds painful. I thought I'd give you some updates till she gets her act together.

Remember this picture. Well, she tried hanging it ON the mirror with those new Command picture hanging strips. It seemed to work until the next morning when she discovered the adhesive wasn't sticking to the mirror any more. Luckily it hadn't fallen all the way down yet. So she got out the fishing line and hung it from the picture rail. It worked well, you couldn't really see the fishing line, but it hung at an angle and you could see the back of the print. So for now it's just leaning there till she decides what to do.

I did hear her say she was thrilled the wash house rose bush had survived the pruning and would be flowering any day. She's getting a bit impatient to get the inside cleaned and went poking around. She was excited to find some old posters from a chocolate candy company and will be sharing them soon. Otherwise she is waiting, rather impatiently, for some muscle to help start moving things out! I'm fast but not very strong so I guess I'm no help. Besides...there are wild cats out there!

The kids are off from school this week so she's keeping them busy with lots of projects. This one is a little stinker though.

Just look what she did to herself.

Poor Sunny slept right through her antics!

Dawn was so excited when the auction signs came off the rentals across the street. They started tearing out the old stuff the very next day. Then left it for over a month, just like this.

But they came with dump trucks and front loaders and cleared out everything from two of the buildings yesterday. It looks like they are renovating from the floor up so it will be NICE and new for some NICE new families!

So that's the scoop. Speaking of scoop, Dawn's headed over here to clean my cage. You probably don't want to stick around for that!

Rednesday ~1950's Pepsi Collectibles

2010-04-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

I was wandering around the house , trying to come up with something for a Rednesday post when it struck me, right about 6: 00! I only look at it, like 20 or 30 times a day, I don't know why it hadn't dawned on me before...

Hubby's 1950's Pepsi clock. It's been hanging there forever, well, almost 60 years anyway. I've wanted to move it to another room but it's out of the question according to Hubby. It lights up and has served as a night light for as long as he can remember. Our dinning room is literally the center of our home and opens to 3 rooms plus the hall so this clock does provide a nice soft light for anyone looking for a midnight snack.

Hubby's grandfather, Hobo, owned a bar and we have a lot of the advertising items that were given to him. We even have a photo of him with the Budweiser Clydesdales in the 50's. I'll have to share it soon. The thermometer below also came from the bar. I shared it in a Wordless Wednesday post when I first started blogging. It only got 5 or so comments so I'm guessing not many of you saw it!

It was around 100 that day. Those days will be upon us again all to soon I'm afraid. At least I know we can always cool off with a nice cold Pepsi.

Please go by and visit Sue at It's a Very Cherry World. She always has cool vintage things to share and on Rednesday, you guessed it, they're red!

Hummer's Roses

2010-04-05T16:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you dear friends for all the well-wishes we received. I was somehow able to avoid the flu bug and the rest of my family was well by Easter. We enjoyed a pot-luck with both sides of the family. We had a wonderful day even though we had to move it inside due to the cold, rainy weather. I was so busy I didn't take any photos! I know, I know ~ Bad Blogger! Lacking Easter photos, I thought I'd return with more roses. This bush is just outside my kitchen window. I don't know the variety but the family just calls it Hummer's Rose, for hubby's grandmother.

It starts with outside petals in a dark pink, almost red.

But quickly opens to layers and layers of soft pink.

It looks like folds of silky fabric to me.

The petals' edges are always curling, not crisp and defined like the rose in the previous post.
No wonder it was Hummer's favorite. It's also the one every one wants cuttings from. I'll have to study up on rose care so I can learn how to do that!

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter. I'll be catching up on my visits over the next couple of days. I've really missed you all!

Easter Roses

2010-03-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Our roses are blooming just in time for our Easter Pot-luck. I hope I'm still standing by Sunday, a flu bug has hit the kids and hubby. I'm desperately trying not to get it too but I'm way out-numbered. If you don't hear from me before Easter I hope you all have a wonderful day celebrating with your family and friends....and please save a chocolate bunny for me!
Happy Easter!
Dawn

Special O. Basketball Tournament

2010-03-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we attended our regional S.O. basketball tournament in Fresno, CA. We took two teams and a group of individual skills competitors. Here athletes waited for the open ceremony to begin.

My son is #5 and at 17 is the youngest on this team. S.O. is open to individuals age 8 and up and is divided by skill level. Competitions are broken into many levels so that as many athletes as possible can take home medals. Everyone leaves with a great sense of accomplishment.

These athletes may be "special" but they are talented and just as intent as any other athlete. Maybe even more so because their season is 8 weeks of practice for one tournament. They play 2 or 3 games all in one long, exhausting day. In the past the tournament was 2 days and the division winners went on to a Northern California Championship tournament. It was canceled this year because S.O. is run entirely on donations and they are way down as a result of the economy.

It gets very physical and emotional because this is their one shot for a whole year to compete against other teams.

It's a big day for family and friends too. My parents are always big supporters. Hubby helps coach sometimes and the athletes love to tease him about his ever present Bronco's hat.

This was the gold medal game for our division. It was a great, close game but the other team pulled ahead in the fourth period. It ended on an exciting buzzer-beating 3 point shot by our team but it wasn't enough and we took home the silver medal.

In the end,

these bright eyes,

and that big grin

are all the prize

we could hope for.

Gooseberry Patch Giveaway

2010-03-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

I know many of you would love a chance to win these boxes from Gooseberry Patch so I'm helping Sweet Bee spread the word about her giveaway. You see, she has a new love in her life so it's out with the old in with the new! Click on the photo to enter her giveaway. While you're at Sweet Bee Cottage make sure you meet her new dreamy love on the sidebar. It will make the romantic in you swoon!

Show Off Your Cottage Monday

2010-03-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my first time joining Show Off Your Cottage Monday. Our host is Cielo at The house in the roses. Please stop by and join in this whimsical cottage tour. You're sure to find many magical things along the way.

So what says cottage to you?

Florals and vintage images always say cottage to me, especially when decoupaged on cute little eggs.

This green wire tea cup certainly says cottage garden, but I thought the eggs would look nice peeking through on the mantel.

This beautiful egg shaped tin whispered cottage to me from across the thrift store. The stand is actually a glass floor protector that you put under the legs of furniture. Yes, I said glass. You see plastic or rubber ones in the hardware stores now. I have several of these that Hubby's grandmother used.

The back side of the egg is a floral pattern.

Well, look who hopped in. This happy rabbit was a gift from my mother. Thanks mom. He's full of cottage whimsy,

and so are the little friends he brought along. Can you find all three of them?

My spring heart from Kathy's Cottage. Everything Kathy makes is full of cottage charm.

I had tried this spring banner but it wasn't quite right. The burlap heart said "spring at the cottage" in a more subtle way. Don't mind that little white box, pretend it doesn't exist, that's what I do.

Now about that rose print that is still leaning against the mirror. I have a question for you all. I haven't been happy with the mirror for a while. Most of the time all it reflects is the ceiling fan. I love the frame though and it's the right size for that area. I'm also starting to like the white around the red frame. Have you ever hung something on a mirror? I'm thinking I could use fishing line to hang the print from the same hook that holds the mirror on the picture rail. So please let me know, does a print over a mirror say "whimsical cottage" or just plain "crazy"?

Feels Like Spring....In the Attic

2010-03-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful day in Central California, Sunny and 74 with a little breeze.

The perfect Spring day!

I thought I'd share this little book of Hummer's from the attic.

Now doesn't that put you in a Springy mood?

Red and Green Wednesday

2010-03-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

It's Irish Rednesday at It's a Very Cherry World.

I wasn't prepared but I threw together this red and green mosaic from photos I already had on my computer this morning. Please visit Sue and the other participants for posts that are a wee bit more Irish! Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Sleepy Bunnies

2010-03-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

Wake up! Wake up! Easter is only 3 weeks away! I think baby bunny is feeling the effects of springing forward. Just like my kids this morning, she's murmuring "Just five more minutes, pleeeease!"

I found this lovely cookie jar at Goodwill. It doesn't have any markings but reminds of of something from Beatrix Potter. Don't you just love her little lace collar and bow?

I'm afraid I've not been around to vist much lately but hope to have some time soon.

Hugs,
Dawn