Look What I Received!!!

I have a friend that lives in Mississippi. This friend has been through Katrina and lost so much, including her most valued treasures - her friends. She has the most wonderful spirit of anyone I know and always makes the best out of what she is dealt, no matter what that may be. She is also one of the most giving people I know. A couple of weeks ago, she sent me two jars of her wonderful pickles. This was not the first batch of them that we were blessed with. I think she should sell them, as they are the best I have ever had. I met Theresa on eBay and she has been a constant friend through many ups and downs on eBay, and in life. She is a reminder to me that when someone has a heart filled with love, nothing else matters and nothing will get them down. She has a neighbor that she cares for, as well as beautiful pets and a very loved family. She always takes the time to send a card, a note, a gift, or an email to keep in touch and keep our friendship from dwindling, even when I am not so good at reciprocating...

Theresa, I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate you in my life. I have been a little down with politics and other little things going on and there you are, shining like sunshine. I just opened the huge box of goodies that I received today, with Paige by my side, pulling things out of the box. She was thrilled to get her gift from you as were Taylor and Morgan... They are munching on their treats now. I must say, if I don't keep my adorable slippers on my feet, Morgan will be right there to snatch them up. LOL!! I love the wooden tray with sheep on it, pickles, apple butter that I cannot WAIT to taste, PUMPKIN material, sock monkey slippers, and especially my gorgeous sheep that you handmade with love. Thank you for being such a kind friend to me...

Theresa, I am sending you a big hug and much love for remembering my birthday. Thank you again for your gifts, but more importantly, for your friendship... xox

Dad's News...

My dad went to the doctor to have a spot on his temple checked. The doctor froze a few spots on his face and they did a biopsy on the larger spot on his temple. They are waiting on results to see what type of cancer it is. Dad worked for parks and rec for many, many years and drove around alot in the truck, as a supervisor, and when he wasn't driving in his truck, he was working outside. He wore sunscreen and still does... Please send prayers his way ~ *hugs*

The Homecoming Dance...

Last night was the homecoming dance. They had a really nice time. They went out to dinner at Glory Days... of course I had to sing Bruce's song until I was bribed to stop LOL!!!! What a great time they had and nice memories were made... xox

Do You Mulch For Winter?

Years ago, when I was a bit more energetic and more anal about my yard, I would edge and mulch every fall and blow each leaf off of my gardens. Boy was I silly... Not only was I wasting time and money, I was getting rid of a very valuable natural resource. I just finished mowing my yard and although my new Cub Cadet doesn't mulch the leaves as nice as my antique John Deere, I choose to blow the leaves onto my flower beds. Not only does this save money on mulch, but it saves alot of time and effort and provides my perennials with natural acids.

The only drawback to doing this is that you must be an early gardener and get outside and remove the leaves off of the beds. If left for too long, they can kill your investment.

It's Fall and It's Time For Homecoming!

We have a brand new high school and it is gorgeous! Last night was the homecoming game, which our guys lost by a huge margin. This is their new football field... yes, can you believe it is artificial?

This is one of the floats for their parade and we were very proud of our daughter being on the homecoming court.

We can't forget the band!! Such a large part of my high school was being in the band. I was a "flag twirler" and loved going to the football games and performing at half time and traveling to competitions. The band looks superb with their new uniforms...

It was a bit nippy out last night. The wind was constantly blowing and we were huddled under an old soft quilt. They may have lost the game, but everyone had a good time and enjoyed one of their best memories of their lifetime.

An Interesting Visitor...

As I sat working on my quilt Christmas tree, Bear aka Clifford started barking. I turned the back porch light on and hanging on the top of the post and down spout was a gorgeous raccoon! I couldn't believe my eyes! He looked right over at the light and the beautiful markings on its face was an expression that I will not forget. It's fur was thick and so soft looking, I wanted to reach through the door and pet it... It was a wonderful treat for me to see one so close in the light... a gorgeous sight to see... I am blessed.

New Border... Time For a Change

I have spent the past couple of days removing old border and putting up new in the dining room. About 14 years ago, I bought some pretty green border with cream hearts on it from JC Penney. Well, it was time for a change. The green heart border served me well, as it was country enough to fit in with Grandma's Hoosier and the oak corner cupboard and matching table and chair set... Painting and papering are the most inexpensive ways to give your room a whole new look. Everyone loves the new border. It's warm and inviting. I hope ewe like it, too... :)