Ramblings of a Southern Girl

Metrolina Antique Show

2012-03-02T11:45:00.002-08:00

If you live within driving distance of Charlotte, NC,

and are looking for something extra to do this weekend,

visit the Metrolina International Collectors and Antique Show.

The show is scheduled for the first weekend of each month,

and runs through Sunday.

We enjoyed the show in January so much,

we went on Saturday and Sunday.

Here are some shots taken from the January Show....

{In no particular order}

So much to look at...

So much to buy! :)

And the prices are very reasonable!

~enjoy!

For more information, visit the Metrolina Trade Show Website.

What a difference a little Chalk Paint makes...

2012-02-26T17:01:00.002-08:00

I have a New Love in my life...

and it's name is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint!

My first attempt in painting with chalk paint, was for items to sell in my booth.

Let me just say,

Love it, Love it, Love it!!!

I like that it covers so well, and requires little prep on the piece being painted....stress-free painting!

The only prep I did, was to clean the pieces with a damp cloth.

And although the paint is a little pricey, it goes a VERY long way!

I created an assembly line of pieces to paint, which included the chair below...

...and the small half-round side table,

which had already received a coat on the top when I remembered to take a picture.

I diluted the Duck Egg Blue Chalk Paint with Old White Chalk Paint to soften the finish.

Once dry, I dry-brushed on a coat of straight Duck Egg Blue for accent.

Upholstered the seat and made a coordinating pillow in a aqua and white zebra printed fabric.

The little table was painted with straight Duck Egg Blue Chalk Paint,

and coated with a layer of Annie Sloan Soft Wax.

Also in the assembly line to be painted,

were two ~~ugly~~ old framed prints, transformed into Chalk Boards.

The large prints were painted over with black Chalkboard Paint,

and the frames painted with the two different Chalk Paints.

{Largest - Old White

Smaller - Duck Egg}

I waited for THREE AND A HALF hours last night at an outdoor auction,

freezing my patootie off,

to bid on a few more pieces to paint,

but I got several great items!

So stay tuned, one will be fun and funky! :)

_________________________

Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm
Party Time @ Northern Cottage
Met Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch
Cowgirl Up @ Cedar Hill Ranch

Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations
Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence
Potpourri Friday @ 2805

It's Official!!! ...and Dreamin' of Spring

2012-02-23T16:10:00.000-08:00

Took the leap,

signed the papers,

and I'm gonna do it!

April 1st, I will have a booth at the Carolina Country Peddlers Mall.

You may recall, last Fall I was seriously contemplating renting a booth,

but decided to wait until the Spring.

{Pictures were borrowed from their website!

In my excitement, forgot to take some of my own while visiting last week.}

My Booth will be called, "Bello Market!"

Taking advantage of our beautiful, warm "spring-like" temps to paint, paint, paint

things to sell in the booth.

I'll share some of those projects soon!

I have about 5 going at the moment, and none are completed! ha!

In the meantime,

Just in case ya'll are

Dreamin' of Spring,

I'll leave these images, taken around my home in Spring '08.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow. ~Proverb

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Linking Post To:

Potpourri Friday @ 2805

Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here

"Starlight" Lemon Shooters

2012-02-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

New twist on a

hometown favorite...

"Starlight" Lemon Pie turned Shooters, that is!

Last week, for a party at my home, I converted a local Lemon Pie recipe,

which has a wonderful key lime taste, into the Shooters pictured below.

The pie recipe was provided in a local church recipe book,

by a man who ran the restaurant at the Starlite Drive-In Theater, many years ago.

The Starlite Theater was what the movie industry referred to as,

"cow-pasture theaters",

and was one of three built in our little town in the late 40's.

The Starlite closed in the 70's, and was the last of the three theaters to be demolished, {1987}.

I remember the structure well.

The picture is of the second Starlite, which was moved across the road from the original in '52.

Starlight Lemon Shooters

The original pie recipe calls for preparing the pie in a graham cracker crust.

To adapt the shooters recipe to the dessert glasses, I used Graham Cracker Crumbs.

A couple of teaspoons of Graham Cracker Crumbs were sprinkled in the bottom of the each glass.

Next, the filling was added.

Recipe For Filling:

1 can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk

1/2 cup Real Lemon Juice

2 eggs yolks {whites reserved if you are using recipe for the pie}

Mix three ingredients, and pour into glasses.

{For 18 dessert glasses, I made three batches of this recipe.

The recipe makes enough filling for ONE pie.}

The original pie has a baked meringue topping.

For the Shooters, I substituted Whipped Cream for the Meringue Topping.

{Didn't know how the vintage glasses would fair in the oven, even for just a short time,

nor did I want to find out! ha!}

For decoration and a little extra punch of lemon,

I crushed a bag of Lemonheads,

and added just a few crushed candy pieces to the tops of each shooter.

If you missed the original Party Post, and would like to see more,

click {HERE}.

I'll be posting the recipe for the Sand Tarts soon.

The Shooters were light and delicious!

But if you'd like to make the original "Starlight" Lemon Pie Recipe,

here goes...

Just a note, don't try the pie recipe on a rainy day, the meringue doesn't set well!

~enjoy! :)

"Starlight" Lemon Pie

1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup real lemon juice

2 eggs yolks, white reserved

1 graham cracker crust

1/2 tsp cream of tartar

4 T. sugar

Mix milk, lemon juice, and egg yolks, and pour into graham cracker crust. Beat egg whites until stiff and stir in cream of tartar and sugar. Place on top of pie and bake at 350 degrees until top is lightly brown. (10-15 minutes.)

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Post Linked To:
Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage
Nifty-Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm
Northern Cottage Party Time @ Northern Cottage
Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence
Vintage Inspiration @ Common Ground

Valentines Party & A Give-away Winner

2012-02-15T10:14:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love a party???

Last night I hosted a group of about 15 ladies in my home,

for our WMU Valentines Circle Meeting.

Below, are random shots of the party food ....

The "Starlight" Lemon Shooters were easy and quite tasty.

I'll share that recipe soon!

The Sand Tarts below, have seriously ~~jeopardized~~ sabotaged my fledgling diet!

But I have enjoyed them!

They were a recipe of my Mom's, which I'll soon share, too.

The Candlewick dessert dishes were a yard sale find.

About 20 pieces, different sizes, for $7.00.

My mother-in-law had given me a set of 6, and I was uber-excited to find mates!

Cheese Station

And a Coffee/Hot Chocolate Bar

_____________________________________________

Now...

For the Give-away Winner!!!

The Winner is a new bloggie friend and follower,

Kim @ LaBelle `Epoque

Congrats to Kim,

and THANK YOU to all who entered! :)

______________________________________________

Linking Post To:
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations
Crafty, Scrappy, Happy Blog Hop Party @ Northern Cottage
Home Sweet Home @ The Charm of Home
Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage
Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence
Potpourri Friday @ 2805
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here
Table Top Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life

Honey Bun Cake for your Valentine Hunny

2012-02-14T11:40:00.000-08:00

First up,

Ashley made the Valentines Cake, below, for her fellow this weekend!

The inspiration came from Pinterest.

Super cute, isn't it???

And if you are looking for a simple, quick, and over-the-top delicious

dessert for your Hunny, (or Hunnette),

try making this Honey Bun Cake.

Ingredients:

1 box yellow cake mix

1 box instant vanilla pudding

4 eggs

1/3 cups water

2/3 cup oil

(8 oz) sour cream

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon (I throw in a tad more)

1 cup chopped nuts

Mix together yellow cake mix, pudding, eggs, water, oil, and sour cream; set aside.

In another bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.

Use a 9 x 13 inch dish, greased and floured. Pour 1/2 of batter into pan and add 1/2 of sugar (dry) mixture.

Swirl through dough with a knife. Add remaining batter and top with remaining sugar mixture. Use knife to swirl topping into batter. Bake at 325 degrees for 30-35 minutes.

It won't be the prettiest dessert you ever made,

but I guarantee, it will be one of the best! :)

^{Happy Valentines Day!}

Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

Roman 12:10

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If you haven't entered my Give-way,

you still have time!

The winner will be drawn Wednesday at noon!

Click here to enter!

RMN 6 - Pillow Storage Solution & a Give-away

2012-02-12T14:40:00.001-08:00

A large part of Refreshing My Nest the last few weeks

has been putting random things back into their rightful place, with some going into storage.

{I let things get a little out of hand and out of place over the Holidays, with all the the hustle and bustle!!!}

As I rounded up stray items, many currently unused pillows were collected.

They were stashed everywhere, behind beds, under beds, in spare closets, in the corners of rooms....

As much as I LOVE pillows, my husband equally detests them.

I like to change out pillows for the seasons, ...or just when the notion strikes.

So... I collected them all together and came up with a pretty nifty storage solution.

Supplies Needed

-Metal Curtain Tabs

-Nails

-A Hammer

I attached a metal curtain tab to one corner of each pillow.

In the rafters of the attic, I nailed nails.....

And from each nail, I hung the pillows.

Works like a charm!

Now they are up and out of the way, and should guests ever visit the attic (little furry ones), hopefully they will be out of harms away.

My last RMN Project tackled, will be refreshing the master bedroom.

Working on that now.

I had new pillow cases monogrammed in the "Fishtales Font."

When I complete that project, which I'll share later, I'm sticking a fork in it and calling it done!

On a slightly different note,

I woke up Saturday morning to a new addition to the mantel.

If you follow my blog, you are familiar with the reason behind Ashley's picture on the mantel,

and how I decorate around it for each season.

David has never uttered a word about her picture being on the mantel,

and his pictures are scattered throughout the house in other areas.

Little did I know, he was felt just a little slighted.

Ashley took this picture of David at one of his recent basketball games

and had it printed and framed for me Friday.

David placed it, and although the scale is a little off,

it appears I have one more picture to decorate around now!

AND I wouldn't move it for the world! "smiles"

So, onto the Give-away...

A Silver Rooster Platter

A Beautiful 5x7 Watercolor Print by local artist, Ronald Williams, of near-by Southport, NC

A Sicura 4x6 Frame made with crystals

A 16 pack of Fresh Linen scented Tealights

& a cute pair of Fashion Cleaning Gloves

If you would like to enter the Give-away,

please leave a comment at the end of this post.

If you would like to enter twice,

please be a follower of my blog.

{Remind me when you enter, please!}

Mention the Give-away on your blog, and I'll throw your name in for a third chance.
{Again, let me know! ...and Thanks! :) }

And for a fourth bonus entry...

I appreciate each one who takes the time to leave a comment on my posts!

Your encouragement and kind words brighten my day, and I love keeping in touch with those that comment!

If those that enter the give-away have left a comment on any of my other Refreshing My Nest Posts,

I'll put your name in the pot one other time.

An added bonus to say, "Thanks!"

The drawing will be held this coming Wednesday at noon!

Best of Luck!

RMN 5- Decorating Commitment Issues

2012-02-10T06:27:00.000-08:00

My daughter remarked a couple of weeks ago,

that I had a case of "Decorating Commitment Issues!"

ha!

It was said in jest, of course ...sort of!

So I like to change things up and around a bit, always have.

But coming home from college on the weekends, she tends to notice things a little more.

Items moved, replaced, repainted ....

To Refresh My Nest, I wanted to replace the lamp shade on the foyer table.

I like the lamp, but the shade catches a lot of harsh sunlight, and had faded.

{Picture below of Lamp from Fall}

While on my search for a lampshade,

the lamp below caught my eye, at Marshalls.

100% Lead Crystal,

she is a shining beauty in the sunlight.

{Heavy as all get-out, but weight is not an issue in this case! ha!}

And in comparison to others I viewed online, I got it for a song!

The space was also simplified {i.e. decluttered}, by removing the cherub below, and having only one other

accent on the table along with the lamp.

The bird prints were a gift from my dad several years ago, whom I inherited my love of junkin' from.

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

My home is almost ready for the ladies' get-together next week.

My Refreshing My Nest Series will be coming to a close.

But, stay tuned for the Give-away, which I'll try to post Sunday.

Just a sneak peak....

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Linking Post To:

Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage

Potpourri Friday @ 2805

Home Sweet Home @ The Charm of Home

Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence
Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage
Metamorphosis Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch
Table Top Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life
Party Time @ Northern Cottage

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Addition 2.12.12:
To register for the Give-away on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012,
click {here}!

RMN 4 - Valentines Welcome to Our Back Door Guests

2012-02-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

The back patio of our home looks so bare in the winter

without the lush green ferns and beautiful flowering plants of summer.

To make it seem a little more welcoming to our back door guests, a seasonal Valentines flag, pineapple door hanging, and pots of pansies were added.

The pansies were found at Lowe's, off of the Clearance Rack for $2-$4 a 8" pot. I purchased many pots and placed them in the empty planters here and there around the patio. There are two urns, one on each side of the double back doors, now filled with pansies.

The cute flag also came from Lowe's.

The wood pineapple wall hanging was found at our local garden center, hand-painted with all weather paint.

I added the bows to the pineapple and flag holder.

I {heart} pansies, they are so delicate and dainty, yet deceitfully strong and hardy!

Nature has begun it's own welcoming,

with daffodils popping up in beautiful blooms of yellow across the yard!

One more Refreshing My Nest Project complete ...refreshing the back patio!
{smiles}

________________________________________________________________

Linking Post To:
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here

RMN 3 - New Life for a Pair of Trusty Old Ottomans

2012-02-05T18:59:00.000-08:00

Isn't it wonderful how a piece of new upholstery fabric can enliven an old piece (or two)!?!

I've had the pair of ottomans, below, for many years.

They were relatively inexpensive, coming from Big Lots, but they are the perfect size and shape for the space they occupy on either side of the sofa.

About three years ago, when the rage was covering nearly EVERYTHING in burlap,

they received a new covering of such.

They were looking rather tired and worn, so I stripped them of the burlap, down to their original tan suede fabric.

My choice of tools for reupholstering may be a little unconventional.

My dad shared the sentiments of MacGyver, who said, "If I had some duct tape, I could fix that."

My dad thought that one could fix the world with duct tape.

My "duct tape" is my hot glue gun and glue sticks!

I have been known to make pillows, drapes, pants or skirts hemlines ...you name it, with my glue gun in tow!

{Image borrowed from Yahoo Images}

So, with my old glue gun, a large supply of glue sticks, scissors, and a couple of yards of discounted upholstery fabric (2 yards @ $4.99/yard each), my project ensued.

I cut a round circle, and glued it around the edges to the top of the ottoman.

One long piece was cut, to wrap around the ottoman. Before gluing it in place, I turned down the top about 1/2" to make a nice straight hem line.

Once the piece was in place, the overage of fabric at the bottom of the ottoman was about 1 1/2" long, and was glued underneath to the base. A staple gun could have been used to secure the fabric to the wood base, but I was on a roll with the glue gun! :)

The picture below, is a more accurate color of the fabric.

Refreshing My Nest ~ One more project complete ...on the next!

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Linking Post To:
Metamorphosis Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Share Your Creations @ Kristens Creations

RMN 2 - Sometimes Bigger Is Better

2012-02-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

...at least when upsizing to a larger planter.

Refreshing My Nest {RMN) Project 2

began with the need to upgrade and find a more substantial planter, scale-wise,

for my foyer.

The smaller urn below was the planter that was previously in the foyer.

It is short in stature, and was beginning to deteriorate,

which meant it leaked terribly every time I watered the plant it contained.

{In the picture, the two appear closer in size. In reality the planter in the back is much taller than the urn.}

I saw the larger planter in the picture above, at Lowe's a couple of weeks ago.

Priced at $49.99, I passed it over, but I really was torn.

I loved the uniqueness of the piece, the " faux pebble-look" --but the price ...not so much!

Wandering later through the section of planters, I noticed that the planter had a lot cosmetic damage.

I asked the garden department sales manager if they would consider marking it down --- they did....1/2 price!

This I could afford, couldn't load it fast enough!

Once home, the planter was elevated on another pot, so that the dry dead grass would not stick to the freshly painted planter. And paint away I did ...satin black.

Once dry, it replaced the smaller urn, and I am quite happy with my choice.

It is unique, and the scale, height-wise, of the planter works well in the space.

...and it was a bargain,

which really makes my heart sing!

"smiles"

An added bonus, I just love the ambiance live plants contribute to a space!
I try use them wherever I possible in my home!

Stay tuned for RMN 3!

___________________________________

For RMN 1, click {here}.

______________________________________________

Linking Post To:
1st Wild About Mother Nature Party @ Grits and Glamour

RMN 1 - Front Door Valentines Wreaths

2012-02-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt that your home looked perfectly fine, relatively clean,

until you have a party or event planned and guests coming over?

Then you begin to take notice of

every little project that needs to be done or completed,

decor that needs tweaking and updating,

or that the dust boards suddenly need serious dusting.

Nicks and scratches in doors and moldings that were invisible before are blatantly screaming

for a touch-up of fresh paint.

Maybe I'm "preaching to the choir,"

or maybe I'm the only one ever in this dilemma.

Anyhow, I have a ladies group coming for a meeting at my home in a couple of weeks.

Before then, I'll be busy "Refreshing My Nest!"

Check back if you would like to see my progress.

Nothing big or elaborate planned, just little projects.

At the end of the Refreshing My Nest posts, I'll have a give-away to offer.

A little something to refresh everyone's home.

____________________________________________

Refreshing My Nest 1 - Front Door Valentines Wreaths

The first project I tackled, was my front porch.

I never seem to really know what to do with it after Christmas.

Without flowers or ferns (dead of winter) or garlands and wreaths of Christmas,

it gets pretty dull!

To make it more welcoming, I bought two cute Valentine Wreaths at our local Garden Center.

They custom make them in-house, allowing the customer to choose the ribbon combination.

The pansies were purchased at Lowe's Home Improvement,

from the Clearance Rack for $4.00 each for a 10"-12" pot.

Couldn't ask for a better color, worked out well! :)

I am debating on spraying the urns black.

The door frames will most likely be painted black in the Spring, also.

Stay tuned for RMN 2 {Refreshing My Nest}!

_______________________________________

Linking Post To:
Valentines Link Party @ Decor Chick
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here
Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations
Potpourri Friday @ 2805

IKEA Inspiration

2012-01-31T10:21:00.000-08:00

One can't help but get excited, anticipating your first trip to IKEA,

as the flags whip about in the wind under beautiful blue skies,

beckoning you into the parking lot!

Going to IKEA, is not like any random shopping trip. It is "an experience."

The prices are phenomenal, i.e. "cheap," and the inspiration rich in the showrooms.

Although I wouldn't suggest going during the mid-afternoon on Saturdays.

Unfortunately, that is when my schedule while visiting Charlotte, NC, permitted, and it was a circus!

(Overly crowded and the check-out wait was long!)

Thought I would share a few pictures from the Show Rooms...

$19.99 for a Basic Metal Table.

The possibilities for this piece are endless, and the price can't be beat!

One of these beautiful bowls came home with me, and now resides on my kitchen table holding fruit.

Interesting...

If I were a modern, hip kind of chick, I would have to have these gloss red lacquer pieces for my kitchen.

IKEA is the "go-to" place for storage solutions!

More pretty storage options, below.

IKEA would be a wonderful place to gather inspiration, and pieces for a brand-new space, or for an apartment dweller. They offer many great solutions for making the most of a small space in a very efficient manner. Overall, IKEA leans toward the modern, but even so, great accessories can be found to accent any type of decor. I observed that IKEA would also be a wonderful place to gather like-items in bulk needed for a wedding or party, for a very affordable price.

So there you have it, my first trip, and my two-cents worth of opinion on IKEA! "smiles"

Gift of Recognition

2012-01-27T07:53:00.000-08:00

Sunday, beautiful plaques were presented to my WOW '12 Conference Co-chair,

Lisa and I.

{Hand-painted and crafted by a very talented lady in our church, Michelle}.

The quote is by Lysa Terkeurst, our speaker for the Conference.

Those who said, "Yes," to volunteer their time to work and help put on this awesome conference

certainly did change a part of our world.

May they be blessed!

And our prayer, is that those ladies that said, "Yes," and attended the Conference, will take back

a little of what they heard this past weekend, and a part of their world will be changed, that their lives will be enriched!

Giving God the glory! :)

You Are....

2012-01-18T14:05:00.000-08:00

Taking a short blogging break.

Our church is hosting a Women's Conference for 800 ladies this weekend,

in which I'm blessed to be Co-Chairing.

Our Speakers will be

Lysa Terkeurst,

a gifted Christian speaker and author,

who is the President of Proverbs 31 Ministry, (heard on Klove).

She has written about 14 books, her latest being, Made To Crave.

Returning for the second year of our Conference,

Kelly Swanson,

a gifted storyteller and comedienne.

And,

Melissa Greene,

formerly with the Christian group, Avalon,

who will be leading our Praise and Worship.

Below are the tent cards that will be used in the cafeteria,

for the luncheon included as part of the Conference, on Saturday.

I may finish them by then ...I hope! :)

(God Says) You Are....

_______________________________________

~Be Back Soon!

2012 GOP Sand Sculpture ~ Myrtle Beach, SC

2012-01-16T19:04:00.000-08:00

"Like SANDS through the hourglass,"

so the history of life is made!

This past weekend, my friend, Lisa, and I traveled to Myrtle Beach, SC,

to "see a man about a dog!"

{In southern terms, that means we were on a top secret mission that will be revealed at a later time! "smiles"}

From our 11th floor hotel room at the Sheraton/ Convention Center, we had the view below, of a huge mound of sand. Our curiosity got the best of us, so we wandered downstairs to the site to inquire just what was going on.

Down in the lobby, we passed signs such as the one below.

Thinking it was a Mini Mount Rushmore,

the closer we got, the more evident the mound became.

The mound of sand was the makings of a Sand Sculpture for the 2012 Republican Party Primary that was to be held tonight (Monday), in Myrtle Beach.

Lisa and I were literally in the right place, at the right time!

The volunteers let us wander within the barricade to take pictures.

But upon reflection, we were wearing name badges concerning our "mission," and I think they may have mistaken us for the press, which were snapping away as well!

A team of five sculptors, was made up of men from Canada, England, and the US. They travel the world creating sand sculptures. The 535 ton sculpture featuring all the Republican Party Candidates, took 6 days to create.

Newt's and Ron Paul's were the most life-like. The sculpture also included a sand portrait of Huntsman, who withdrew from the race today. The sculptors had actual head shots taped to the side of each face for guidance.

The GOP symbol...

The sand sculpture was sponsored by the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Convention and Visitors Bureau.

A side sculpture was created commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his birthday.

As we left Myrtle Beach Saturday Evening, we noted that the sculpture was progressing quickly.

From clips seen on the news today, I observed that upper body features had been added later to the faces.

Hats off to the very gifted and talented artisans who created the beautiful display!

______________________________________

"History never looks like history when you are living through it."

~John W. Gardner

Love Is Patient

2012-01-13T06:39:00.000-08:00

... love is kind.

It does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,
it is not easily angered, it keeps no records of wrong.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects,
always trusts,

Always hopes,

always perseveres,

Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8

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Valentine Ornaments ~ Big Lots

Floral Ribbon ~ Wal-mart

"Love is patient..." Plate ~ Local Gift Shop

________________________________________

Linking Post To:
Metamorphosis Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch
Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage
Party Time Tuesday @ Northern Cottage
Tabletop Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life
Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations
Inspiration Friday @ At the Picket Fence

Metal Mantel Mania

2012-01-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

Ever take a walk on the wild side and mix-up your metals???

Metal finishes that is?

I'm quite certain, somewhere in the world of design,

the concept of mixing metal finishes is on THE list of what NOT to do! ha!

But being that conformity is highly overrated, and that I needed a boost

from the after-Christmas-house-blahs, I decided to throw caution to the wind and mix different variations of silvers and golds to create a clean, simple mantel.

If you follow my blog, you know the story behind Ashley's picture on the mantel.

The day we brought her Senior Pictures home, she placed it there, and not having the heart to move it, I decorate around it! That was over a year and six seasons/holidays ago!

The picture makes me "smile" when I'm missing her so!

The brass fan in front of the fireplace brings in another element of metals.

"If I create from the heart, nearly everything works; if from the head, almost nothing."

-Marc Chagall

_________________________________

Linking Post To:
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here
Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations Online
Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence
Potpourri Friday @ 2805

Ikea Rug Makeover

2012-01-09T17:30:00.000-08:00

During my first shopping experience this past weekend at,

I found this great round outdoor rug, below,

for only $19.99.

The perfect basis for a quick and simple Monogram Project.

Step One: Gathered supplies.

~Bowls to use as border templates and a "B" Cake Topper for the Monogram template.

Step Two: Traced the Bowls and the Letter "B" on the rug with a permanent black marker.

Step Three: Filled in the lines with Black Indoor/Outdoor Paint.

And once the Painted Monogram was completely dry...

Placed it by our Salon Door to enjoy!

More on my IKEA trip coming soon! "smiles"
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Linking Post To:
Nifty-Thrifty-Tuesday @ Coastal Charm
Party Time Tuesday @ Northern Cottage
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style

Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations Online
Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence
Potpourri Friday @ 2805

Never Too Old To Learn

2012-01-04T07:23:00.000-08:00

I made a blog header!

On Picnik ...by myself!

I, the one who is SO very computer ~~illiterate~~ challenged

actually made the header AND uploaded that baby to my blog.

For me, that is huge, I'm telling you! ha!

Those of you who are so very gifted and talented with technology and blogging,

please forgive me if my excitement seems a little silly!

Just give me a few minutes to bask in my success! {smiles}

I guess you are never too old to learn!

Fabulous Pots at Big Lots

2012-01-02T20:35:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the great selection of new planters at Big Lots?

I can tell you ...they are going fast!

These fabulous pots can be found at a fabulous price, too!

My pictures do not do the detailing and vibrant colors justice!

Would you like to know which one came home with me???

{ ....drum roll, please.... }

The cobalt blue and white 8" ceramic planter!

Such a beautiful and fresh pop of color for only $10!

The brilliant blue planter certainly helps remedy the "after-the-Christmas-decorations-are-gone drabs!"

At this time of year, does your home suffer from those, too???

__________________________________________

Linking Post To:
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here
Share Your Creations Party @ Kristen's Creations
{New Vignette Created}
Fridays Unfolded @ Stuff and Nonsense
Feathered Nest Friday @ French Country Cottage
Potpourri Friday @ 2805
Inspiration Friday @ At The Picket Fence

New Years Wishes...

2011-12-31T15:56:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

~ Much Love and Wishes of a Blessed Year to All! ~

Philippians 3:13-14 - "No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven."

Christmas '11

2011-12-27T08:33:00.000-08:00

December 27th,

and my house looks like a tornado has struck a path down the center of it.

I'm humbling myself showing the chaos we've created!

Wondering if order can be restored.

Or when, ...noone seems to be in a big hurry to tidy up! ha!

And the Tree is still standing,

although it has long been stripped of gifts.

But we sure had a LARGE time getting to this point!

{"smiles"}

Christmas was wonderful!!!

Christmas Eve was spent with Kevin's side of the family.

After supper, the kids exchanged presents.

Austin opening his gift, below.

David's Turn...

Katie, the oldest Grandchild...

Ashley, waiting her turn...

Grandma Frances, Kevin's Mom...

And Papa,

Doesn't he look an awful lot like Santa???

Ashley...

Our Annual Christmas Photos in Front of the Tree..

Katie & Ashley...

David is never too excited to take pictures,

and he doesn't hide it well! ha!

Getting a little smile out of David...

These kids have grown and matured SO much since last year!

The girls wanted to get a picture with Grandma,

but they had to rescue her from falling in the tree! ha!

Grandma Frances and her four Grands...

Katie, 19, Ashley, 18, Austin, 15, & David 13.

One thing we did do a lot of...

we laughed!!!

They are one silly bunch! :)

Ashley & David after everyone left.

David was so tired... and so ready for Santa...

I regret that I didn't get ONE single picture Christmas Day,

which included Santa on Christmas Morning,

and Christmas Lunch with my Parents, Brother, and his children.

It was a continuation of a wonderful Christmas, though.

Went to my childhood church with my dad, and it was so good to see my old church family!

_____________________________________

Just a few more pictures to share...

David,

and my girly-girl Ashley, both got guns from Santa!

Ashley, below, target shooting at the farm, with her HOT PINK 22 rifle, dressed in her camo pants (a gift from Nana - my mom.)

What's more, she was old enough to buy her OWN bullets! Were does the time go???

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, as well!
I say this every year, but I believe it was our best ever!

Thank You Lord for that! :)

Ready

2011-12-24T06:23:00.000-08:00

The Stockings are hung ~~by the chimney~~

on the Banisters with care...

{in hopes that Saint Nicholas soon will be here!}

The presents are wrapped...

Goodies prepared!

Home open

to Welcome our family and friends...

And the table set for a festive family feast!

But most importantly,

we are READY to celebrate and worship our Lord and Savior's Birthday,

that One that lives in our heart!

"Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, 'God is with us!" Matthew 1:23

Jesus

The Greatest Gift of All!

"For God so loved the world, he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17

Wishing all,

a Very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

Feeling kind of nostalgic today!

Do you ever get that way around the Holidays???

Below, is a post I wrote for my previous blog in 2008.

Reading it brings back sweet memories for me --- thought I would share it!

December 17, 2008

I think that at this time of year, more than any other, I am mindful of my childhood. Wonderful memories of Christmas traditions abound, transporting me back in time. A much simpler time, when I had few worries or demands, and life was predictable. As a child, Christmas was very predictable for our family. I think about my own children, as we try to establish traditions. It has been hard, and traditions have changed every few years it seems, due to moving or loved ones that have passed during my children's lives.

My mom was one of seven children and my dad was one of eight. Both grandparent's homes would be overflowing with family gathering at Christmas, but they never seemed crowded, rather warm and cozy.

On Christmas Eve night, we celebrated at Grandma B.'s house. During the hour ride home, I would lie crossways in the back window of dad's big Ford sedan, searching the sky for Santa. (This of course, was before seat belts! ) An hour seemed like an eternity as a child, especially one filled with anticipation of gifts to come. My dad would give updates from the front seat as he drove ahead, and I would try to take shallow breaths, so that I didn't fog up the rear window. I didn't want to miss Santa and his reindeer, should they happen upon our path.

Before going to bed, we were allowed to pick one present from under the tree to open. I had the uncanny knack of never choosing a cool, fun toy. Rather my choice was always unwrapped to reveal PJ's or some other piece of clothing. I have to laugh about it now, but at the time it was far from funny.

Gifts from my grandparents were predictable, as well. My Grandma B. gave us each a small box, about the size of a shoebox, filled with little items that she shopped for and saved throughout the year. She put a lot of thought in each item. From Grandma M., we each got two pairs of underwear, but they were good brands. :) When I was young I didn't appreciate them as well as I probably should have. But as I grew older and started buying my own, my gratitude increased.

For a moment, I find myself sad, that I can't be young again, and go back to those predictable, yet wonderful and magical Christmases past. I want to be six, and climb in the back of that car window one more time, and worry about nothing but Santa. And those that I loved, my dear grandparents, are gone now. Their homes are no longer the same, though still standing. But then, I think of my own children, and how I want them to have wonderful family traditions, that I hope they reflect fondly on. I think of all the happy memories we have already had as a family and look forward to future ones. I am then glad that time moves on.

Our preacher shared this verse in a sermon on TRADITIONS...

"Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation." Joel 1:3

{Pictures for Post Borrowed from Google Images}

Cousins' Christmas Bake-off

2011-12-21T21:25:00.000-08:00

One of the advantages of Ashley and Katie getting older,

being the big college freshmen that they are,

...is turning over the Christmas baking to them this year.

As the girls baked away, my mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and I

enjoyed chatting, while browsing blogs and Pinterest!

Every now and again, we offered a hand,

but they baked like old pros and did a wonderful job with the treats they created!

First up, Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies.

They were a little fluffy, but very tasty!

Next, my sister-in-law, Leighann, was part of the assembly line to make

Chocolate Covered Nutter Butter Reindeer.

Are they not the cutest things???

Sugar Cookie/Candy Cane Kisses Blossoms were added to the line-up.

And Sugar Cookie ~~Flowers~~ ...ummm, Stars

Candied Pretzel Creations

Brownie Pops and Round Whoopie Pies...

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies...

{ The girls were busy little elves, were they not??? :) }

Last up, a Snowman Cake.

Leighann found a two sided cake pan at a yard sale for $1.00!

On a wing and a prayer ....and with lots of toothpicks, he stayed together.

Instead of icing the Snowman, which would have diminished his intricate details,

the girls decided to NOT lightly DUST, but to pat on powdered sugar.

...gobs of powered sugar! :)

As the hour drew late, things got silly,

and powdered sugar began to fly, --the girls had a little food fight!

Powdered sugar casualties resulted and in the end,

the Snowman was not the only thing covered in white. -ha! :)

The girls have declared, it will soon be time to turn all the Christmas preparations over to them.

We countered that in another five years, we may discuss it! :)

I'm thinking I'll be much older before I relinquish the reins fully on my favorite Holiday!

But it sure was fun sharing the baking duties with them!

Purple, Silver, & Zebra Tree

2011-12-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

~ Spreading a 'lil Christmas Cheer at my Salon ~

With Purple, Silver, and Zebra Print!

Albeit a slight unconventional! :)

The photos do not do the brilliant purple balls justice.

Most of the ornaments were found at Kmart {Martha Stewart Collection} after Christmas many years ago.

The purple flowers and silver snowflakes were purchased at Walmart this year.

Added a few more festive touches.

Zebra-print and silver bow to an existing vase of lillies.

And a small coordinating half-wall Tree, secured to a mirror.

Hope this bit of Christmas Cheer brightens the day of our much appreciated Clients!

______________________________

Linking Post To:
Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style
Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations
Inspiration Friday #45 @ At the Picket Fence
Potpourri Party #16 @ 2805

JOY ...and Other Christmas Crafties

2011-12-17T15:32:00.000-08:00

With the newest rage, Pinterest, there are so many wonderful craft ideas available to "borrow."

Below, are a few fun and easy Christmas Projects I'd like to share...

The first was a project I made for my Mother-in-law a couple of years ago.

The idea was hers, I just implemented!

She's a crafty lady, herself!

Three pillows were made from a glittery plastic (flannel-backed) inexpensive tablecloth.

{I can sew, but for this project, I hot-glued the seams of the pillows together. They held very well!}

Used the Cricut Machine to make the self-adhesive vinyl letters.

And together they spell JOY!

The second project is a simple cookie decoration project.

Nutter Butter Cookies Santas

Melted white chocolate in the microwave to make each Santa's hat and beard.

Sprinkled top ("the hat") with red sugar immediately after dipping.

Added a white chocolate morsel for the fluffy white ball on the end of Santa's hat,

a Red Hot for his nose, and miniature chocolate morsels for eyes.

A little time-consuming, but super cute, huh???

And the last project,

Cotton Boll Poinsettias!

From this, below...

to an unique Poinsettia...

The hostess of a Christmas dinner party I attended this past week made these for each placesetting.

The cotton had long been picked and removed from the boll.

The hostess painted the discarded boll red, adding yellow in the center.

Painted one piece of a boll green and hot-glued it, a red ribbon, and stick to the red painted piece.

---I'm off to do a little more decorating, spreading some JOY and cheer!

I let my daughter convince me that our Christmas decorations looked "unfinished."

So today I am tweaking and adding to.

And I said I was done -- ha!

Maybe, just maybe I'll be finished by Christmas! :)

"Somehow, not only for Christmas, but all the long year through, the JOY that you give to others, is the JOY that comes back to you!" -John Greenleaf Whittier

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Linking post to:
Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage
Metamorphosis Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm

O' Tannenbaum '11

2011-12-16T07:01:00.000-08:00

Live or Artificial???

Which do you prefer?

Out of 5 trees in our home,

{we actually downsized by two this year}

this is our one live tree!

For several years, we had a 12' artificial pre-lit tree in this area.

But with age came the loss of lights, and it required days of assembly for all the decorations.

I've enjoyed having a smaller live tree, and as a bonus, it has been very fragrant this year!

A few shots of the festivity surrounding the tree in the Music Cove...

The Christmas'y Piano Vignette

Vignette atop a small China Cabinet...

The needlepoint pillow was found at an antique store in Tryon, NC.

Great little antique mall --- more on that later!

The Foyer Table dressed...

...The Lord Has Come!

Didn't get around to decorating the banisters and railings this year, but I'm okay with that, too!

And the blue-bottom tennis shoes in the picture, below.... they make me smile!

They are a reminder, my daughter is home from college

and our family is together for Christmas! :)

Let The Celebrating Begin!

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Linking Post To:

Potpourri Party #15 @ 2805

Thrifty Things Friday @ The Thrifty Groove

Home Sweet Home @ The Charm of Home

Show and Tell Friday @ Romantic Home

I'm A Winner...

2011-12-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

Check out what I won....

No...not the beautiful trophy above, that is a prop picture borrowed from Google Images.

Even better than that...
You may have noticed my awesome, cute and whimsical new Christmas'y

Blog Header!

I won that in a give-away from Barb @ Grits and Glamour!

She designed and installed it!

Didn't she do a wonderful job???

Thanks so much Barb, I love it!

The Biltmore

2011-12-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

The first weekend in December,

Kevin and I traveled to Asheville, NC, to celebrate our Anniversary.

We were married on December 5th, 19 years ago.

On Saturday, we toured the Biltmore, this being my first visit.

The massive size of the beautiful mansion is overwhelming!

The 175,000 square foot home was built between 1889-1895, by George Washington Vanderbilt. It is the largest privately owned home in the States, and features 250 rooms.

Can you imagine waking up to this view every morning?

The architectural details of the exterior amazed me the most!

And to think, each intricate detail was created and constructed in the 1800's, long before the modern conveniences, machinery, and tools we have today to do so.

The Biltmore in the late evening.

Luminaries surrounding the massive Christmas tree on the front lawn.

After our tour, we dined at the romantic Deerpark Restaurant, one of the restaurants on the estate. I would have taken more pictures in the restaurant, but I didn't want to appear as if I'd never been anywhere! ha! :)

It was so nice to retreat back to the Hampton Inn, which was beautifully decorated for Christmas.

Wanted to get a picture of the inviting lobby fireplace, but others were also enjoying it.

Towards the end of the week, I'll do one final post on our trip;

shopping at one of the all-time best antique malls I've found on my travels!

Christmas In the Kitchen '11

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

What is your favorite room to decorate for Christmas???

Mine --- {HANDS DOWN}...

The Kitchen!

This is where our family gathers together for good food, and lots of laughter and conversation!

It's also the room I express my whimsical side in, and is usually the first to be decorated for Christmas!

Bar between the kitchen and family room...

Love little Santa and Elf Fairies...

The backside, or kitchen side of the bar...

It's hard to keep this candy dish filled during the Holidays! :)

The old Icebox...

Simple centerpiece for the Kitchen table!

Gingerbread Tree and Vignette that sits above the old butcher block...

My "dose of cheer" over the kitchen sink!

Christmas on the Kitchen Island...

Santa Wreath on the Pantry Door...

Back to the Kitchen Island...

Christmas is not complete in our home, without Ashley's Annual Gingerbread House!

Now to crank up the Christmas Music,

and get busy with my Holiday baking! {smiles}

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Linking Post to:

Kitchen Block Party @ At The Picket Fence

The French Cupboard

Amaze Me Monday @ Dittle Dattle

Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage

Christmas Dining '11

2011-12-07T13:53:00.000-08:00

Well...

The dining table is yet to be set!

{That sounds a little Dr. Seuss'ist, huh?}

But I've finished decorating the space and that's quite an accomplishment! :)

Kept it simple, especially the table centerpiece.

Just a Poinsettia and rustic candleholders adorn the table.

Keeping it simple was purely accidental.

After completing the tree, I hastily added the other items, so that the room wouldn't appear bare or unfinished over the weekend - buying time until I could go back and tweak the space. But, it grew on me, and has remained as is!

Close-up of the Tree...

Another room completed for the Holidays ...CHECK!

_______________________________

This is the second post for today...

To view the previous Mantel Post, click HERE.

Click HERE for my Vintage Christmas Post.

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Linking Post To:

Holiday Dining Block Party @ No Minimalists Here

Ready for Santa's Arrival - Mantel '11

2011-12-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

Do your kids still believe Santa comes down the Chimney???

Mine are now a little too old. But it hasn't been all that long ago, they looked beneath the mantel, wondering in childlike innocence, just how the fat bearded man would make it down to deliver presents on Christmas night.

Our fireplace is decorated in shimmery green and silver,

should he make a showing none the less!

Ashley placed her Senior Portrait on the mantel last year,

and I don't have the heart to move it.

Each season I decorate around it!

Just maybe she'll be first on Santa's List!

And maybe Santa will sit a spell and relax in our family room, before hitting the neighbors house,

if he should come, that is!

One room decorated and ready for Christmas --- CHECK!

_______________________

Linking Post To:

Merry Mantels @ Southern Hospitality

Wow Us Wednesdays @ Savvy Southern Style

All That Shimmers @ Tiaras and Bowties

Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations

Vintage Christmas

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

"Something about an old-fashioned Christmas is hard to forget."

~ Hugh Downs (1921- ), American newscaster.

Don't you just love Christmas Traditions, including decorations with vintage touches?

This past weekend, Kevin and I spent our 19th Wedding Anniversary in Asheville, NC.

I'll share more pictures from the weekend later in the week.

One of my favorite Antique/Collectibles Malls is The Depot at Gibson Mill. On the way home Sunday, we stopped off in Concord for a visit! Wonderful, whimsical Vintage Christmas was visible in many booths of the 85,000 square foot mall.

Once inside the doors of The Depot, we were greeted by the life size Santa!

What's more vintage'y Christmas, than tinsel trees and old Christmas balls?!?

Cute, shiny tree in an old watering can....

Small bottle brush tree in a silver creamer...

Old dusty rose chenille pipe cleaner Christmas Trees...

Beautiful wreath with antique shimmery balls...

Christmas crafty projects were also offered in many booths, such as the Santa ornaments made from dried okra pods...

A banner of "HOPE" from Artsy Fartsy...

{Janna, a blogger who has a super cute booth offering metal and chippy vintage wares at The Depot.}

Collection of Vintage Santas...

Great idea for an old brass candelabra...

Uniquely dressed lamp shade...

Vintage Linens...

Pretty, festive candle decorations...

{Might have to "copycat" these! :) }

Paper print Trees...

Loved the old over-the-shoulder fertilizer spreader filled with live greenery.

Brings back many childhood memories of my dad and his gardening days!

"So tacky, they're cute" plastic lighted yard decorations!

I remember the toy soldiers from the days of my grandmother!

At Christmas, she would place one on each side of her front porch. The window behind them framed a beautiful live tree so thick with stringy silver tinsel you couldn't see the green of tree, lit brightly with large-bulb colored lights!

I miss those days!

Another great crafty project...

The little Christmas folks below, had a vintage look.

The drummer boy came home with me!

The next few pictures were a more modern take on Christmas, but were absolutely beautiful.

Lavish mantel...

Bright, festive wreath...

If you are in the Concord, NC area, and would like to visit The Depot at Gibson Mill, click HERE,

to go to their website for directions.

What I have pictured is just a small fraction of what the 460 booths have to offer!

You will not be disappointed, it's enchanting at any time of the year!

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Linking Post To:

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm

Vintage Block Party @ Common Ground

~ giving thanks

2011-11-23T19:27:00.000-08:00

Wishes for a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues. ~Cicero

Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever."

Here's the skinny!

2011-11-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

You want to get a little personal today???

With the holidays quickly approaching, I've been super busy with boring, but "got-to-be-done" mundane chores. Which leaves me with nothing really to blog about in the way of projects. So, I decided to open up and share a daily struggle of mine. Some of you may be dealing with the same ...weight!

I've struggled with my weight for years now. I can't recall a Monday morning in the last 15 years, that hasn't begun as the, "Start of my diet day!" On some Mondays I've actually made it until lunchtime. However, after yet another failed attempt, the cycle continued and I vowed to start again, each week, the following Monday.

So what triggers my weight issues? Many women blame it - and rightfully so - on having children. But being that I suffered from morning sickness for 9 months with both of mine ...not an issue for me. And I certainly can't blame it on genetics, another common factor. My dad is 67, normal weight, eats anything and everything he desires -often enough for several grown men at one meal. His metabolism, which I did not inherit, is astonishing. And my mom and brother are both small. I often joke, that I received the combined fat genes for all four of us!

I finally determined I was a "stress eater." Nerves have fueled many a hunger pangs for me. And my willpower was lacking to overcome.

Weeks ago, I reached a breaking point, and two things brought me to that moment.

First, several dear childhood friends of mine have lost loved ones recently. I felt strongly compelled to reach out to them during their time of loss. But griping fear of what they might think of me, most of whom I hadn't seen in 25 years, was too great to overcome. When Kevin and I married, I was a tiny little thing. I'm not a terribly vain person and do realize that most people age and gain a little weight over the years. Yet, I was imprisoned by the thoughts of someone judging me harshly for the extra weight. So, in my shame, I sent very personal cards and letters to my friends expressing my sympathy; ...feeling very guilty that I had not done so in person.

Secondly, a couple of weekends ago, I traveled to Raleigh to spend it with Ashley. Her dorm is on the third floor, and the terrain of her college campus very hilly. After trekking after her and up to her room for 2 days, I seriously thought I might die! I didn't want to embarrass her, so I tried with all my might to keep up with her, my breathing even, and my heart from protruding through my shirt from the severe pounding. Feelings of being winded terrified me. What a wake-up call!

I knew the time for change was dire! If for no other reason ...my health! I ran across the 21 Day Challenge Online, by Lysa Terkeurst.

Off on a tangent... I'm co-chairing a Women's Conference Committee at our church, which will be hosting Lysa as our guest speaker in January. As I was gathering pictures and biographical information on her, I found the Challenge.

Terkeurst is the author of Made To Crave, which I have not yet read. I assume the Online Challenge is a mini version of the book.

Back to my story ...

Fifteen days ago, I signed up for the 21 Day Challenge Online, receiving one short devotion through email, daily. The first 4-5 days, I prayed and read ...and nothing sunk it ...the words just glazed over me. Did not help one bit! Still I ate -- no willpower, still gaining weight -- still very discouraged! But I continued to read.

The daily devotions were short and interesting. Lysa is a very witty writer. My attention was captured if nothing else. I also continued to pray. And then, a transformation of my spirit emerged. Willpower erupted from my inner being --- and a week and half later, I am 8 1/2 pounds lighter!!! And it really hasn't been that difficult. I'm not hungry, but feeling satisfied and full with much less on my plate. I have many pounds to go on this journey, but I know that I can do it now! I feel ...very accomplished.

The following verses have been an inspiration as well...

When I'm feeling discouraged and unworthy .... "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." -Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

For hope to overcome ... "For you, O Lord, are my hope, ..." -Psalm 71:5

And for strength ... "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." -Phil 4:13 (NIV)

If you are still with me...still reading this post, please know that it was not easy to open up and discuss my insecurities. I'm a private person where my feelings are concerned! I'd much rather be sharing a new project, thrifting find, or decorations ---that is "safe" for me. But, if this post is encouraging to at least one other lady, then it was well worth my stepping out of my comfort zone to open up. I'll be hitting that "Publish Post," button with great reluctance.

If you would like to read more about the 21 Day Challenge, go to Lysa's Web Site for more information. I also have her blog listed on my sidebar. These devotions have been such an encouragement to me, that I am saving them in my emails, and intend on rereading them daily when I reach day 21.

{Note: I am in no way affiliated with Lysa Terkeurst or her ministry. That's more for her protection that mine! :) }

-Now if I can just get motivated to exercise! At least I am now feeling as though I can ! :) Baby steps....

Garden Club Thanksgiving Tablescape

2011-11-09T19:00:00.000-08:00

Are you up to your eyeballs in Thanksgiving preparations???

I sure am, and to spur my creativity, I've been scouring through old photos of past seasons.

If nothing else, I'm reminded of those "seasonal items" I have tucked away;

if only to remember where they are tucked away! ha!

Ran across a Thanksgiving Tablescape I was commissioned by a friend to create

a couple of years ago, to present at a local Garden Club demonstration.

{And I use "commissioned" lightly; strictly volunteered my time! :) }

Items Used for Tablescape:

Dessert Dish ~ Vintage Amber Glass

Salad Plate ~ Vintage Candlewick

Dinner Plate ~ No Name - Thrift Store Find {50 cents}

Flatware ~ Sterling Silver Gorham, Strasbourg

Gold Charger

Ceramic Acorns ~ Pier One {2009 Seasonal}

Fabric Placemat ~ Remnant from Dining Room Window Treatments

Candlesticks ~ Tiffany & Co.

Linen Napkins ~ Self-Monogrammed {See Tutorial Below}

Canister with Acorns ~ {See Tutorial Below}

Not Pictured: Tea and Water Glasses ~ My friend's beautiful Waterford Crystal Stems

As for the linen napkin, I monogrammed it with rubber stamps, using permanent ink.

Used the letter "J," in this place setting to represent my friend Jolene.

The reason: These would make great personalized place markers as well, using the initial of each person attending the gathering to mark their place.

And on to the acorns in the canister ~ what says "harvest and Thanksgiving" like acorns???

Gathered acorns from my yard...

...and "Martha" glitter and glue from the craft closet.

Hot-glued the ruffly tops back on the acorns.

Covered the acorn base with a thin coat of glue,

sprinkling on glitter.

While the acorns dried,

hot-glued a glass vase/canister onto a candlestick, both purchased from The Dollar Tree.

And voila, an inexpensive seasonal decoration is born!

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Linking Post To:

Tablescape Thursday @ Between Naps On the Porch,

Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here,

Share Your Creations @ Kristen's Creations,

Show and Tell Saturday @ Be Different Act Normal

SNS Link Party @ Funky Junk Interiors

Newbie Party @ Debbiedoos

Amaze Me Monday @ Dittle Dattle

Masterpiece Monday @ Boogieboard Cottage

Christmas Wreaths at The Spree

2011-11-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Need Inspiration and Ideas for stunning Christmas Wreaths???

Found several this weekend, while visiting my daughter, Ashley, in Raleigh.

Saturday, we perused The Spree;

the 27th annual shopping extravaganza presented by The Junior League of Raleigh,

at the Convention Center, downtown.

Greeted by Sir Walter Raleigh!

Decked out in fabulous pink accessories!

Only he alone, could pull these off! :)

My heart did a little flip, when I walked in and saw the shopping below;

145 exhibitors.

Back to the Wreaths...

They were gorgeous,

but came at a hefty price -- just under $250.00.

And no, that was not a typo.

The wreath below, was much prettier in person -- my pictures didn't do it justice.

The wreath base was red and made a striking statement.

A few more pictures from The Spree...

Didn't get many, the crowd was thick!

Wall or Door Hangings, below.

Cutest little elves!

So sorry that I didn't go back and purchase one of these!

They were around $35.00, reasonable I thought.

Loved these stools.

Cute boots too, of a random bystander! :)

Simple, elegant arrangement...

Really loving the polka-dot tablecloth overlay!

Hope this provided inspiration for all those still planning their Christmas decor.

As much as I love fall, I am so ready for the new season! :)

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Linking Post To:

Wow Us Wedsnesdays @ Savvy Southern Style

Shoeboxes on a Shoestring

2011-11-06T15:37:00.000-08:00

Busy - Busy - Busy

Packing the "shoeboxes," below,

to deliver to our church.

Today is the deadline....

Filling the boxes with all sorts of little toys and games,

Washcloths and soap,

Toothbrushes and paste,

Coloring books, crayons, and school supplies,

hard candy,

etc.

The boxes will join a multitude of others....

...and through Operation Christmas Child {OCC}, a Project of Samaritan's Purse, will be shipped to precious children in many countries overseas.

Imagine the joyous little children who will receive the boxes. Doesn't look like much by our standards, but to a child who has literally nothing; a priceless blessing!

I look so forward to putting these boxes together every year.

If you want to learn more about Operation Christmas Child, click on the OCC Banner above.

These boxes, personally, cost me very little.

I shop for them year-round, storing the contents until November.

My Tips For Providing Shoeboxes on a Shoestring...

~ Shop Back-to-School Sales

{Thin Notebooks, packs of pencils, and boxes of crayons can be found for 25 cents, or less.}

~ Shop Seasonally - After the Season

{Christmas Stocking Stuffers, Small Valentine gifts, Easter Basket Stuffers, etc. can be found after the season is over, in big box stores marked down for a fraction of the original cost.}

~ Party Supply Section

{Small toys can be found in bag lots, and often a "Clearance" section is offered with great discounts.}

~ For Toiletries & Wash Clothes

{Bundles of such, at small discount chains for great prices; Family Dollar, Maxway, Dollar General, Big Lots, etc.}

~And of course, Dollar Tree

Where everything is a dollar! To fill in items that I haven't found enough of during the year.

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And did I mention that super cute Scottie McCreery is the spokesperson for OCC! :)

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"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:40

What a Weekend - Going CORNy & A House Tour

2011-11-04T04:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I'm uber-excited to be heading to Raleigh, to spend it with my daughter, Ashley, at school.

We'll be going CORNy...celebrating Cornhuskin', a college tradition that takes the place of their Homecoming. She attends a women's college, and the entire week has been packed with festivities.

From Corn to Pecans...

We Southerners are notorious for celebrating most anything and everything in the way of a festival;

Corn, Pecans, Yams, Pumpkins, Peanuts, Strawberries, Azaleas, etc...

While I'm away this weekend, I'll miss our local Annual Pecan Harvest Festival.

This time of year is so busy, it'll make your head spin --- just can't take it all in!

In 2009, our home was on the Pecan Festival Home Tour.

Thought I'd post a recap...

Pecan Belles, representing the Festival, are chosen from among local eighth grade girls.

Each home is hosted by one belle and her attendant, young men from Camden Military Academy.

Guest Registrar

Wasn't this a handsome little prince???

The 2009 Pecan Queen, Dixie Light, from Atlanta, Ga, visited all the homes. She was escorted by Bill Thompson, a local author, contributing writer for "Our State Magazine," and well-traveled speaker.

"Ode to the Pecan!"

Celebrated the pecan in my home with a vignette featuring pecans and a vintage dog cast-iron cracker.

I {lurve} fresh flower arrangements; they do wonders for most any space.

Made several for the tour. . .

Below is a good example of "What Not to Do!"

The beautiful yellow-orange roses couldn't withstand the heat from the lamp, even though they weren't that close or the bulbs that hot.

The outside our home was decorated as well.

Guest entered though the front doors . . .

And exited from the back. . .

Few more outside shots. . .

I'm a little ashamed to admit, as I look through the photos, I realize my home isn't quite as clean as it once was.

Oh well, tomorrow is another day, and I'll work on that --- next week! ;)

~enjoy your weekend!

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Linking Post To:

Amaze Me Monday @ Dittle Dattle

Open House Party @ No Minimalist Here

Pumpkin Pastiche

2011-11-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

So, when exactly does Pumpkin Season end???

With Halloween; or does it carry on until Thanksgiving?

Christmas decorations are emerging in stores at the speed of lightning; it's hard to make that call, right?

Nevertheless, I'm still enjoying my favorite season of the Great Pumpkin.

For a simple, super moist and delicious Pumpkin Cake,

try this recipe....

You won't be disappointed!

Pumpkin Spice Walnut Bundt

1 box yellow cake mix

1 (3.4 oz) pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix

1 (15/16 oz) can of pumpkin

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup walnuts

3 eggs

2 tsp pumpkin spice

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour bundt pan. Combine all ingredients but walnuts. Mix well. Stir in walnuts. Pour into pan. Bake 45-55 minutes.

Great tip: Shake pan when you pull it out of the oven.

Dust with powdered sugar, or top with Pumpkin Spice Glaze.

Pumpkin Glaze

2 cups confectioner sugar

1 tbs butter, softened

1/2 tsp pumpkin spice

2-4 tbs milk

Mix together, adding milk slowly.

Drizzle over cooled cake.

I prefer dusting the cake with powdered sugar instead of the glaze.

~enjoy!

I've never seen the varieties and rainbow of colors displayed in pumpkins, as I have this year.

Below, are some shots I captured at the Farmer's Market, in Columbia, SC.

My mom and I stopped on our way home from the Country Living Fair a couple of weeks ago.

“We fancy men are individuals; so are pumpkins; but every pumpkin in the field goes through every point of pumpkin history.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson quotes