Thanksgiving.

A time for reflection of all that we have....freedoms that come at great sacrifices.  Blessings of family and friends.  Prayers for strength and forgiveness during challenging times.  The grace to hold it together when you are falling apart on the inside.  Despite anger and hurt, to take the higher road and do the right thing.  And the ability to forgive and in doing so, be able to move forward.

Nothing like a warm fall day spent at Meijer Gardens!

This week is heavenly weather - in the 70's and then the forecast is back to "normal" October weather.  Keep in mind this is Michigan - stick around for 15 minutes and the weather will change!  Mums are everywhere, sun felt warm on your face.  Amazingly, it was not crowded at all!  Great day for exercising and taking lots of pictures!

Hope everyone is enjoying the sunshine...while it lasts!!

My favorite time of year!

 There is color everywhere and it absolutely takes your breath away!   Today was almost 80 degrees....it just can't get any better.  Now if it would only stay this way until April or May...well, we can always dream!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

Rest in Peace

Tomorrow we will say our final good-bye to my mom.  She was such a lovely lady and beautiful person.  Sleep doesn't come tonight - so many thoughts swirling though my head.  I miss her so much.  She fought a hard battle with Alzheimers and in the end, cradled by those she loved and who loved her, she peacefully slipped away.  To a better place I know.   My head and my heart are in such conflict.

Reach out to all that are still here and love them, hold them, touch them......while you can!

Rest in peace, mom.  You will always be in my heart.

Remembering 9-11-2001

 

I remember the events of 9-11-2001 and it still brings chills just thinking about it.  Today we visited The Healing Fields and it is an amazing tribute to those brave men, women and children who lost their lives on that horrific day.   There were 3,200 flags displayed with a brief bio of all but 200 (those have not been identified as of this date).   It was impossible, both physically and emotionally, to read all of the bios.   A beautiful ceremony was given in their honor and I left with a sadness in my heart for them, their families and loves ones, and for our country.   Also, a renewed faith that our country will continue to be strong!

I'm linking with Mary at Little Red House for Mosaic Monday.  It's been a while since I've been able to join her.

Meet Breann Nicole!

This is our two-week old new grandbaby - Breann Nicole.  And she was born on her Grandpa's birthday - yes, we are very excited to welcome her.   Such a perfect little bundle of joy!  And that hair - isn't it amazing!

What happened to the weather?

Goodness, what a brisk fall day.   It was difficult to drag myself out from under the covers this morning.  Windows were open last night so that we could listen to the "critters" and the soft breezes.....well, even the "critters" were too chilly to chirp this morning!

This Labor Day is the first, ever, that we haven't had a get-together or a project to at least begin.  Hubby purchased a new I-Pod for him and a Nook for my for my upcoming birthday....so as you might guess, the day was spent putzing and playing with the new toys.   The search is on for a handy dandy cover for the Nook Color.  Does anyone have any recommendations?   He is the computer savy one in this family - and thankfully he enjoys figuring these gadgets out! 

What did you do on this Labor Day?   Hope everyone enjoyed!!!

This is the face of an Unhappy Camper!!

Thought it was a tad stuffy at zero-dark-hundred.  Jumped up and went in the living room to cool off.  Leather furniture always feels cool when one is blessed with those lovely "Power Surges"  from hell, as that condition is not-so-lovingly referred to in this household!

Things just weren't cooling down as they should....guess what?  On this lovely Michigan day, when the weather is nearing recording-breaking temps again....the air conditioner apparently decided to revolt!   Must be male because nobody else could possibly find the humor in that! 

So the motto for today is "When life gives you lemons - make Vodka Lemonade!"

(Not really, but it sounded good!)  

I'll just wait impatiently for the repairman with a tall glass of peach tea - that is more my speed.

Hope everyone has a wonderful AND COOL day!!!

Where, oh where, has the summer gone?

It's a cloudy, overcast day with anticipated rain in the near future.   Yesterday was spent removing the potted flowers from the deck and washing the deck. Today, after mowing the field and grass, I'm thinking the potted tomato plants will become history.  They are looking rather sickly.  I thought I was being diligent about watering - maybe it's just time.  For some reason it's just a sad feeling.  Fall is always my favorite time of year...that being said, just not ready for summer to go quite yet.  Am I the only one who feels this way? 

Flowers are coming...

This is the third day in the hospital with my mom, who has Alzheimer's.   Tests that are necessary and confusing to her at the same time.  Unfamiliar surroundings, routines, clothing and all the nasty stuff that goes with the territory. I'm praying that we have answers when all this is said and done!  The one thing that has brought a smile to her face was a vase of flowers from home.   I think I'll remember that smile for years to come.  It's so hard to see them hurt.  Hopefully, if tests go well tomorrow, we'll be back home on Friday.  Keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer for her.

And when I grow up, I'm going to be really brave.....

The little guy in the swing is our youngest grandchild (until the end of next month!) and he will be 2 in November.  But he is a firm believer that if his older brother and sister can do it, so can he!  Not one moment's hesitation going down the zip line.   The "adult" kids put it up last summer and my first trip down it was over the 4th.....I was the last hold-out.  I kept telling them someone had to be available to call "911" - but once the brake was installed, it was time to live a little.  Fun, Fun, Fun.

Call me crazy - but for that moment it time, it felt so good to be carefree!  What is the last "carefree" adventure you took?

What are your July 4th plans?

Rain, rain, go away!   Ducks and flowers are happy, me - not so much!   We are having a huge get together for the upcoming holiday and it's been raining like crazy.   It would be nice to have a couple of nice days so the ground could dry out and we could enjoy outdoor activities, games, bocci ball, bags, zip line, etc.  And fireworks, of course, lots of fireworks!

What are you plans for the upcoming July 4th holiday?  (I love having my family together and even enjoy the chaos of trying to bed and feed the masses!)

Happy 4th of July to everyone!

Would you?

It is always fun to drive around new neighborhoods, the paths not previously taken, etc., to see the landscaping, the lovely homes and the unique.  I took this picture several weeks ago and to me, it is just out of the norm!  It appears to be on a private property, a farm.  Of course, the person who carved it had talent.....but I would prefer a Welcome sign or a cute animal.  How about you?

Memorial Day

A special thank you to all of our troops serving our country and protecting our freedoms, and a silent reflection for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. A special remembrance to those who have served and are no longer with us. And our thoughts to the families of all.

Isn't this loverly!!

A quick trip to Traverse City to get a breath of fresh air....and pick up a couple of bottles of wine.  It turned out to be a rainy, overcast day; regardless, it's always fun to explore.   One of these days we'll actually make it when the cherry blossoms are blooming!!!  Many of the wineries have shorter hours until May (or even June) and that provided us with an opportunity to take our time and enjoy the view.   So I ask you, isn't this just "loverly"!!  

Spring is just around the corner..... ?

Peeking out the window it is difficult to remember that just two days ago I was outside picking up the many, many twigs and branches, admiring the ground where grass used to be, knowing that in just another day the remaining pile of snow from plowing the drive would soon be gone... and then the Michigan weather struck again.  I hope the ice doesn't kill the buds!  Hubby kept telling me not to get too excited, there would be more snow coming out way.  (One would think after three years I would be getting the hang of this weather!)   I just didn't want to hear it.  Nor did I want to tell him, "dear, you were right!"   But I did!   And it really didn't hurt too terribly bad. Tehehe

At least the inside is looking like springtime.  Just tucked the winter snowman dishes away yesterday and brought out the sunflowers.  So I'll just keep my "rose colored" glasses on for a few more weeks until spring really DOES arrive!

Happy Wednesday everyone!!

Do you have a song that brings uncontrollable tears?

I love music, have the radio/stereo/music on television most of the time.   Headphones when mowing in the summer, IPod when working in the yard.  All types of music and flavors.  Music that reminds me of days gone by, high school events, the first love, songs that remind me of family members long gone...but the one song to which I have no emotional ties and absolutely just pulls at my heart strings,and I cannot control the tears,.........is "In The Arms of the Angels".  

Do you have such a song?  What is it about certain songs that do this to us?

Soon - very soon.

We still have a mountain of snow and more predicted for the weekend.  Thought a pop of color would brighten my outlook and went searching through my photo archives.  Sure enough, it did the trick.  Soon - very soon, we can all be enjoying the sunshine!  (I believe in the power of positive thinking!)

Remember your wedding day...

Do you remember your wedding day?   I wish I could say I was this beautiful bride....it's my niece and nephew.  The wedding was simple and beautiful and filled with hope and promise.  Isn't she a beautiful bride?  And the dress, simply stunning.

19.5 inches of snow makes one tired...

The sidewalks have been shoveled, the driveway and lane plowed, the roof raked, deck cleaned...it has been a busy couple of days.    So many people were affected by this latest snow, whether it be ice, snow or a combination of snow.  The work is done, the sun is shining, and looking outside it is beautiful. 

However, yesterday during the midst of things, I received this pictures and it just captured how I felt at the time.  I hope everyone who got snow has recovered and can now enjoy the beauty!  Here's hoping this weekend's flurries are minor.

Oh just a few more weeks until spring!!!

A perfect morning for a crisp walk...

The temperature is perfect.  The fresh fallen snow is absolutely breathtaking, light and fluffy.  The air is fresh.  Branches on the trees are laden with sparkling jewels.  Such a lovely way to start the day!
These opportunities don't present themselves very often, and when they do, it refreshes the soul and renews the spirits.  I am thankful, very thankful!


Our book club met at our home last evening and watched "The Mistress of Spices" on DVD.   Most of us had read the book as well.  It was a great evening, filled with fellowship, laughter and tasteful delights made, of course, with spices!   I think you would enjoy this book written by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni.

Happy Tuesday to all!

How much is too much?

Okay ladies, I'm looking for comments on this post.  I am in the process of picking our new lighting for my kitchen/dining room.  I took down a 4 ft. section track lighting that was old and here when we bought this house.  I had hoped to find another type of lighting that would provide lots of light for the food pantry and counters (without have to do additional work on the ceiling).  Hubby thinks an 8 ft. section of  mono-rail lighting would work.  I'm wondering if that isn't a bit much.  I am such a visual person!   And I just can't convince him to buy it and hold it up while I decide whether I like it or not.....wonder why?   Does anyone have any suggestions/comments?

Thanks in advance.

Snuggled by the Roaring Fire...

Have you ever had one of those wonderfully lazy days...two really productive days in a row and the best intentions for today.   However, after sleeping in, fixing a light brunch, the hubby and I decided we were not going to be very motivated today.  And I might add, we've been extremely successful!  Cleaned out emails, organized files on the computer, send a few notes - all while snuggled under the afghan next to the fire and watching television.

We ended up pulling movies from the cabinet and are now watching "Mountain Men" with Charleston Heston and Brian Keith.  Normally, it isn't a movie I would select.  My memories of Charleston Heston involved a chariot.  There have been a few entertaining moments.  Both hubby and I have decided our fathers would have loved this movie.  As a little girl, I spent many evenings watching John Wayne movies with my dad.

When my daughter comes home, we always have at least one "girls day" where we pick a classic...Thornbirds, Gone With the Wind, North and South, Dirty Dancing, P.S. I Love You, Coco Channel, etc.  This year it was the Godfather trilogy. 

Do you have any special movie memories?

It's a Wrap...

With the snow gently falling, today was the day I started taking down the decorations and breaking down my beloved trees.  As as of 9 p.m., the three big trees and the six smaller ones are completely bare.  Lights have been removed, ornaments wrapped and packed away, and other than two wreaths with snowmen on them (they aren't really Christmas decorations, are they?), the house is getting back to normal.  Yes, I miss the twinkling lights and the tree in the living room that turns, but I have to admit once I packed away that last box, I could feel the weight being lifted.  

I love, love, love Christmas and all the decorations, and after a hectic holiday with many, many guests, (some of whom had a nasty cold/sinus infection -myself included) it's sweet to sit in the recliner with the faithful dog nearby and just breath and relax...no company to feed, no board games and late nights, in fact, toast will be perfectly fine for breakfast in the morning.  Hummm, in fact sleeping in later is sounding nice too.

Happy Thursday!!

My Responses to Meet Me on Monday

For the first time, I'm joining Never Growing Old: Meet Me on Monday to learn more about fellow bloggers.  (One of my resolutions for 2011 is to post more regularly!)


1.  Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
     Yes, this year I actually made a list of resolutions.  

2.  What food item are you craving right now?
      Ice cold, red, ripe, juicy watermelon.  
 
3.  When is your birthday?
      September 25th
     
4.  What were you doing an hour ago?
      Playing Beezerwezzer with the family.

5.  Last thing you cooked?
       Lemon Chicken on the grill.