Friday Letter Writing

It has been quite a while since I had a letter writing session.  So, today, in no particular order, it's time to write a few. 

Dear Fall, you have teased us a little bit these past few days and I love your teasing!  Now, you can show your full face anytime you want to.  I mean, tomorrow is Oct. 1st!

 Dear NFL, it is beyond my comprehension that you would allow your players to show such disrepect to the country in which he lives.  In my opinion,  he/they should be quietly dismissed, well, maybe LOUDLY dismissed!

Dear Presidential Candidates, what is left to say?  This election is one for the books and we still have 39 days left. May the Lord have mercy!!!

Dear Fashion Police, there needs to be someway that you can let women know that there are just some items that were NOT made for them.  All styles are NOT made for all women.  And, mirrors need to be able to talk to tell some folks what they should and should not wear since looking into them doesn't seem to work. ~just sayin'~

Dear Megan Kelly, you drive a hard bargin for sure, especially during this heated political time.  You are a tough, tough cookie and really can be a bitter pill at times. Sometimes I like you and sometimes I don't.  I'm thinking you most probably have high blood pressure.

Dear Dana Parrino, you are my favorite Fox News blonde.  You seem to have a sweet spirit, a kind heart and a pleasant disposition.  You are generally a breath of fresh air.

Dear Greta, I'm not sure all that happened between you and Fox News but I sure do miss you.  You were one of the more sensible voices on Fox News.  I do hope you will find your niche elsewhere because it was definitely Fox's loss.
Dear High Ceilings, I do love you but, my goodness, you deal me grief when I want to get something or do something on a shelf that is near you.  We had 8 foot ceilings forever and ever and making this adjustment is taking some getting use to.  And, I'm at an age and stage that climbing up ladders is really not all that smart.
Dear Donald Trump, I would say that 3 of your biggest credits are your 3 oldest children.  They, just from what I have seen on TV through their interviews, are some fine folks.  They are well spoken, not easily provoked and maintain a lot of self control.  You would do well to follow their example.
Dear Hillary, something about you during the debate was just not right.  You appeared somewhat drugged.  And, the media, for what it's worth, says you were the winner but I thought there really wasn't a winner.  But, you had better come in armed and ready for the next debate because I highly suspect Donald's going to be carrying the big guns. ~just so you know~
Dear Christmas, I have made a huge dent in my gift purchasing and plan to get them wrapped shortly.  Shopping is so easy with Amazon!
Dear God, so much of what your Word says about the end times is happening all around.  I don't necessarily want to be on the next train out, but I do look forward to your coming and the day of rejoicing it will be. 
Dear Readers, do you remember the song, Try A Little Kindness, by Glen Campbell? These are the words:

If you see your brother standing by the road
With a heavy load from the seeds he sowed
And if you see your sister falling by the way
Just stop and say you're goin' the wrong way
You've got to try a little kindness yes show a little kindness
Yes shine your light for everyone to see
And if you'll try a little kindness and you'll overlook the blindness
Of the narrow minded people on the narrow minded streets

Don't walk around the down and out lend a helping hand instead of doubt
And the kindness that you show every day will help someone along their way
You've got to try a little kindness...
You've got to try a little kindness...

I'm thinking our world would be such a better place if we all "tried a little kindness." 

Wednesday Hodgepodge

Another Wednesday, another Hodgepodge! Joyce,our "question maker", should be very close to moving into her lovely new house.  I marvel at her ability to have her plate very loaded and still be able to come up with great questions for us week in and week out.  Hope you enjoy this week's questions and answers............

1. Have you ever been to and/or lived near the desert? What did you think? Travel and Leisure lists the 'coolest' American desert towns as-

Palm Springs CA, Virgina City NE, Bend OR, Winslow AZ, Marfa TX, Grand Junction CO, Silver City NM, Moab UT, Taos NM, Yakima WA, Borrego Springs CA, Terlingua TX, and St. George UT, and Tubac AZ

Have you been to any of these? Would you like to visit a desert town? Which on the list would you most like to see?
 We traveled to Arizona a few years ago and drove across some desert areas. I have not been to any of the areas listed above.  I care nothing for desert towns as I've lived with gorgeous lush green grass, beautiful trees and overall pretty landscape too long.  Desert towns seem sad to me with little to no beauty.  I guess if it had been all I had ever known then I would likely feel differently.  Of the places listed, Palm Springs would be my choice.

2. What's a plan or project you've deserted in the past year? 

I'm sure there is one but I can't think of anything.  I have completed more projects in the last year, with our BIG move, than the law allows. ~just sayin'~

3. Desert-dessert? Share two or three words you find yourself having to think twice about when it comes to spelling.  
Conscious always gives me fits.  I always want to put in two "s's" in occasionally and I always want to put two "c's" in vacuum instead of two "u's."

4. High and dry, like watching paint dry, dry run, dry as dust, not a dry eye in the house...which phrase can you relate to currently? Explain. 
This goes back to March and the extreme flooding our area received, that's as current as I can come up with.  We were "high and dry" here in our new house.  We live up on a hill and our old house was in an area that would hold water.  We never came close to flooding but water would be all around and I like this "high and dry" feeling a lot!

5. How often do you frequent the dry cleaners? Starch or no starch?  

If the dry cleaners were depending on us to stay in business then they would be in sad shape.  Hubby and I wear so much that can be laundered now and the clothing that we have dry cleaned can be worn several times before being cleaned. And, it's definitely starch!!!!

6. What's a food or beverage you enjoy that's named for a place? 

Oh, New York Cheesecake!  And, if you want to add some raspberry sauce on top that would make it all the better.

7. Do you need solitude? 

Indeed I do!!  In fact, if I go too long without it, I can get real cranky. ~smile~

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

I said, after the last season of The Voice, that I would not be watching it this season due to the fact that Miley Cyrus was going to be one of the judges.  Well, I am choking on my words while I'm watching it. It is one of my most favorite shows and I just couldn't imagine not watching.  AND, I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised.  Miley has done a good job with her judging thus far and has behaved, for the most part,  and I hope it continues.  I don't get her clothes but neither do I get Alicia's turban!  That's what I look like when I have my hair drying towel wrapped around my head.  I am thoroughly enjoying the new season of The Voice, a whole lot of great talent!

Monday Musings

The last week of September is upon us.  And, in a flash, the last week of 2016 will be upon us.  Just all the more reason that we need to make every day count, do good, be kind and live according to God's Word and purpose for our life.  Time is marching on...........

This past week my Dad had company from the great state of Virginia.  Dave and Peg were members of the church my Dad pastored 45 years ago and he performed their wedding ceremony.  They have been so devoted to him and have gone out of their way on many occasions to visit him.  They had been to San Antonio to a Coast Guard Reunion last week and decided to make the drive (an 8 hr. plus drive) over to see him on their way back to Virginia.  They stayed here with us and we enjoyed visiting with them as well.  They are what you would call "true blue" friends and my Dad has certainly been blessed by their sweet friendship.

Meet "Peeps."  Peeps belongs to Clancy's 2nd grade class and is in the classroom everyday and each day a different student gets to have him for an allotted time.  Friday was Clancy's turn.  Peeps is a Lion Bunny and apparently an easy going fella.  If I remember correctly, this is Peeps 3rd year to be a part of this class.  Added note:  I suppose that one day before long Clancy will surely get his two front teeth. They've been missing for a while now. ~just call him Snaggle, Snaggle and Peeps~

I thought it appropriate to post about Brandon's 40th birthday dinner celebration today.  His actual birthday is next Monday, Oct. 3rd but he was due, September 26th, which is today.  It's really awful when you go past your due date, but I remember thinking it was worse than awful to actually go into a whole other month.  Anyways, back to the celebration................

 

I went with an LSU theme since Brandon is an avid fan and I planned the celebration on an evening that the Tigers would be playing.  I had such fun decorating with all things purple and gold.  After dinner the group enjoyed visiting and watching the game.
  

I found this cake idea on Pinterst and took it to our local "cake lady" and she did a great job recreating it.  And, it was most delicious as well.

I'm still trying to wrap my head around the fact that I'm about to have a 40 year old child.  I mean, surely, I'm not old enough for that. ~big laugh~  But, what a joy he has been and continues to be.  He loves the Lord, is a family man, has personality personified, is a respectable young man, and  is just an overall "good guy."  We are mighty proud to call him our son and as we often tell the Grans, we love him to the moon and back!

A Welcome to Fall Hodgepodge

 Yea, tomorrow is the first day of fall and we at the HP are going to welcome it in full fashion.  Joyce centered a few of her questions today around the coming of fall.  Did I mention that I love all things fall?  Here's to fall...........

1. Thursday (September 22) is the first official day of autumn in this part of the world...how will you welcome the season? I know some of you have been celebrating way too early, but it's official now so permission granted. House Beautiful recently listed ten ways to make your home smell like fall (you can read the list here) What's a scent you love this time of year and how will you add it to your home?
I just might wear something rather "fallish" to welcome the season. I run a diffuser every day in our living area and am burning eucalyptus right now and will vary it with cinnamon for the coming weeks. And, no doubt I may do some baking that requires a little cinnamon as well.

2. Apple pie or pumpkin pie? Apple cake or pumpkin bread? Warm apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte?
Oh a piece of pumpkin pie for sure, perhaps apple cake with some warm apple cider.  I can taste it now.
 

3. Do you suffer from what is sometimes referred to as an afternoon slump? What helps ward it off before it hits and/or tell us what helps you shake it off once it's here?
I don't really have an afternoon slump on most days.  If it's dreary outside and the sun is not shining through our windows I might feel a little draggy, but for the most part, I'm good to go.  Now, I definitely have less energy as the day goes on and that's why my recliner is my "go to" spot about 6:30 every evening.  I love chillin' in my recliner!
 

4. Ladies-how have your friendships with women inspired you or made you a better person? For the men here today- how have your friendships with men inspired you or made you a better person?
I have such dear friends, friends from all walks of life, and all personality types.  Those closest to me generally inspire me, cause me to think and often have been a shoulder to lean on.  I feel my world is a better place due to my friendships.
 

5. Are you a people pleaser? If you said yes, do you think that's a good or bad thing? If you said no, do you wish you were more of a people pleaser?
I would say I am NOT a people pleaser.  I do want to be pleasing for sure, but I can say NO even when no one really understands why I said no.  I haven't always been able to do this but the wisdom that comes along with aging helped me in this area. ~grin~ I've learned that no one is accountable for my decisions except for me and vise versa.  It's a freeing realization!  Have I done things just to please someone even when I didn't want to, you bet I have.  Okay, hope all this made sense.
 

6. The seasons are a-changin'...share a favorite song relating in some way to change (not necessarily seasonal change, it could be change of any kind).
 Ah, how about Changes by Olivia Newton John from 1972.  If you want to hear it click here.
Really a sad song about a family dealing with divorce.
 

7. What do you wish would never change? 
Oh, the very first thing that came to my mind was my current energy and health.  I'm at the age where neither of these are taken for granted.  I think every one of us desire to enjoy good health and to live to be a ripe old age and then just die due to natural causes.  But, we know that is not promised and more times than not our lives take a dive that knocks us off course.  But, it doesn't keep me from wishing. 
 

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

This is the lovely group of couples that were a part of our son's birthday celebration this past Saturday evening.  This is just a "sneak peak" and a more at length post will be forth coming.  His "real" birthday isn't until Oct. 3rd so sometime between now and then I'll fill you in on the details of his celebration.  It was a wonderful evening!

52 Lists - Favorite Shopping Places.

I'm plum excited!  Over the weekend while blog hopping I ran across this awesome blog called Beauty Full Slow. She has a weekly meme called 52 lists.  Every week she features a different topic for anyone who wants to, to make a list on it.  I have always loved lists and I always have a few going.  This week her list is "Favorite Shopping Places."  So, here I go!

Nordstroms - I love, love Nordstroms but I do not live near one.  In fact, the closest one to me is in Dallas, Texas.  But, that's what online is made for.  Nordstroms has a nice selection of narrow shoes and I order most all of my shoes from them.  Then, they have the biggest semi-annual sales and I do love a sale!  AND, the best part is free shipping coming and going.  They make returning a breeze so I never hesitate to order with a deal like that.

Tuesday Morning - when it comes to anything household they are my "go to" place.  They have the best linens, kitchen gadgets, pots, pans, candles, bath and body items, decorative pieces and the list goes on and on.  It is one place that I have never shopped online because I truly enjoy going to their store and just browsing. 

Wal-Mart - I really have a love/hate relationship with Wal-Mart but since it is where I go for groceries and day to day household items, I had to put it on my list. A favorite, well, that's debatable.  And, it's just about all we have here in our city and that's not good as there's no one to really offer them competition and as we know, competition is a good thing.  It keeps one always striving to be a little bit better.  Their self-checkout tries my patience but they leave you no choice except to use them because they NEVER have any human checkers available.  Grrrrr........

Chicos - I am a huge fan of Chicos.  They do have plenty of items that I would not be caught wearing, mainly their wild and loud prints.  But, they have, in my estimation, a lot of very classic clothes and that's my favorite.  AND, it is a rarity for me to ever pay full price for anything they have.  They are always having storewide 30-40% off  sales and they always have a clearance corner where prices are generally rock bottom.  Yes, I'm all about it!

Kitchen Collection - I love going to outlet malls just so I can go to Kitchen Collection because they are only an outlet store.  They are pretty much just a kitchen gadget store and I'm such a sucker for kitchen gadgets.  And, they always seem to have a new one that is calling my name.  And, I will say that I do use most all of the kitchen gadgets that I have.  And, I love bundt cake pans and they come in so, so many designs and KC has a wonderful selection.  If you've never gone into one of these, then you need to next time you are at an outlet mall.

Etsy - Etsy reminds me of Amazon in some ways.  There's truly not much you cannot find on Etsy.  No, they don't have prime shipping but most of the dealers are very pompt.  From invitations, art work, scarves, costumes, dolies, all things vintage, jewelry, clothing, and the list goes on and on.  

Mer Rouge Wholesale - this is for all my "local peeps."  Surely all of you go there!  I also like to go here and browse.  For you non locals, it is not a wholesale place at all but it gives you the feeling that it is by the name.  You get my drift? ~ smile~  Again, all things household decor is there and probably most I do NOT like at all, but they do have some really great items that make it worth my while to stop by.

I could go on and on with my list but these were the first to come to mind.  And, I didn't even mention Amazon as I talk about it so much here that I figure you know it is at the top of my list of favorite places to shop. 

Have an extra happy day!

My Favorites

It's Friday and what a busy week it has been.  I've had an entire busy month but I have fulfilled two of my obligations in two of the clubs I belong to and now I don't have to worry about it for another year.  Yea!  I like that part.  To top off our week I'll be hosting a 40th birthday dinner for our son tomorrow evening.  I've had a good time getting ready for this event.  Meanwhile, back to some of my favorites..................

I bought this gorgeous 12X12 stretched canvas off of Etsy.  I have an easel in my kitchen and I like to keep something inspirational sitting on it and like to change it from time to time.  I found this here and the lady's work is impeccable!  She has lots to choose from and her shipping is very timely.  I give her a 5* rating for sure and she's in my favorite shops for sure!
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I added just a little touch of fall to the front porch last week.  These photos are a bit foggy but the colors really are much more vivid.  I love fall and will share the inside touches I've done in the next few days. Fall is such a favorite of mine!
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I've mentioned Amazon as a favorite of mine before but I must mention it again.  I'm not sure I've ever looked for anything on Amazon that they did not have.  It's amazing!  I've already started my Christmas shopping via Amazon.  I just discovered that they have just about any gift card that you could want.  My kids love gift cards and Amazon will make that process easy peasy this year.  Hubby doesn't really like the idea of gift cards because he thinks that a goodly portion of them goes unused.  Well, that might be the case with some folks but it is definitely not the case with our kiddos.  They use them down to the last penny.
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These two lovely ladies and myself hosted our first study club meeting of our new year yesterday.  I was the cook and I served up lasagne, salad and french bread.

Sarah (on the right) hosted the meeting in her home and everything was so lovely and fall looking.  It was as if  she had rolled out the welcome mat for fall's arrival this next week.

Gerri (in the middle) was in charge of the program.  She had a friend of hers come and give a program on antique dolls.  He had quite the collection and along with them, a vast knowledge of dolls.  It was a most interesting program and it's always fun when a group of Southern ladies gather.
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And, I'm not sure this needs any words.  I think these pictures speak for themselves.  Coleman is a happy little fella and in about a month I'll get to squeeze those sweet rolls! Notice I saved the best for last. ~smile~

The Wednesday Hodgepodge

The Hodgepodge is my Wednesday "go to" for blogging.  I try to post MWF and that can get to be a lot, so I'm thankful for Joyce's questions each Wed.  I may have to rack my brain thinking of answers but at least I don't have to rack it thinking up a post in it's entirety.  So, that's a "win win" in my book.  Thanks Joyce for your dedication to the HP !
 
1. What's changed in your life, home, or community since your last birthday? 

Hummm........that's been exactly 6 weeks ago and things pretty much remain the same.  But, give it a little time and I'm sure that will not be the case.

2. September is Classical Music Month. Do you like/listen to classical music? If so what's a favorite piece and/or who is a favorite composer? 
Yes, I do like and I do listen to classical music.  I'm pretty sure that I am one of a few these days, but my parents loved classical music and played it daily on our stereo and it lulled me to sleep most nights of my young years.  I absolutely love Moonlight Sonata by Beethovan!

3. Besides The Bible, what's a book that has positively changed your life, relationships, career, or perspective? How so? 
Oh, this required no thought..........Lord Change Me by Evelyn Christenson had such a powerful impact upon my life.  I read it back in 1978 and to this very day I often think back on the truths of this book.  It is all about our looking at ourselves for the changes that need to be made instead of thinking it's everyone else that needs to change in order for us to be the person God intends for us to be.  It  applies to every aspect of our lives, our marriages, our children, our friendships, our employers/employees, etc.  And, for me,when I applied this truth, it had a profound touch upon my life.  And, it's something that I have to constantly remind myself of everyday.  I cannot recommend this book enough and there is a wonderful study guide that goes along with it.  I have led two studies on the book many moons ago.  It is a very old book but its truths are timeless!

4. I read (here) these ten hobbies will make you smarter...play a musical instrument, read voraciously, meditate regularly, work out your brain (puzzles, sudoku, board games, etc), exercise often, learn a new language, write your feelings down (blog, journal, just write), travel to new places, cook different kinds of meals, participate in sports actively

Are any on this list your current hobbies? Which hobby on the list would you be most inclined to try? 

It's rare, but I do play the piano, I listen to books daily, exercise most days, and blog.  I'm pleased to know that these hobbies will make me smarter, who knew?  

5. What sports traditions does your family have? 

Hubby and our son are avid golfers.  Well, Hubby isn't as avid as he once was for sure, but our son still enjoys it very much and is better than average.  There was about a 10-12 year period, the 80 's and early 90's that I played tennis every day. But, don't know that my shoulder or neck could stand for that now.  It sure was fun while it lasted.

6. In a few words, weigh in on the current football/National Anthem brouhaha. Keep it family friendly please. 
I think it is absolutely RIDICULOUS and such an embarrassment.  And, I scratch my head in utter amazement that someone with this attitude is allowed to remain on the team.  I.don't.get.it!!!!

7. Where do you have loads of patience, and where do you most lack patience? 
I have lots of patience with people who are doing their very best but still not quite making the mark.  I encountered a cashier yesterday that definitely required a lot of my patience and I gladly gave it to her.  I lack a lot of patience when it comes to people who absolutely ignore RSVP.  I mean, that is not put on an invitation for one's health, it is important in the planning of whatever event the invitation is concerning. ~I'll leave it at that~

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

If you have been watching America's Got Talent then you will likely recognize Sophi Dossi.  If you haven't been watching then you need to go to You Tube and watch this little contortionist/aeriolist/balancer do "her thing."  I have never seen an act such as this and I'm thinking she will definitely be a top contender for the winner of $1 million dollars tonight.  And, then there was Viktor Kee, the juggler.  Oh, my goodness!  There are about 4 acts that could win, in my opinion, guess I'll find out tonight.