boylerpf

Can you guess who??

2010-01-08T11:50:00.008-06:00

I know I said yesterday that it was cold here but let me tell you...that was no comparison to what it is today. We woke up to the actual temperature being -27 and that isn't even with the wind chill! Wind always blows out here on the plains so you gotta know, it's really cold.

My new favorite thing is wool...anything wool! I've had the great fleece items thinking they'll keep me warm but there is nothing like wool in my book. So while searching for something wool to keep me warm, the name Pendleton comes to mind. A word synonymous with wool since 1909. From blankets to sweaters, they really do keep you warm. They were such a big name that in 1960, a huge California band named themselves The Pendletones in honor of the company. They wore Pendleton shirts on their first album cover. Later, they did change their name. Have any ideas who they were?

Pendleton Beaver State Wool Blanket from KingFisherGallery

Vintage Walnut Wool Cardi from NodtoModVintage

49er Pendleton Plaid Jacket from Vintagefoe

Pendleton Plaid Wool Coat from persephonevintage

50s Pendleton Slacks from bluegrassvintage
I can just see that band wearing something close to these!

No clue who that big band was? The Beach Boys!
Have a great Friday all and stay warm...I'm working on doing just that!

Back to our regularly scheduled program....

2010-01-07T12:28:00.004-06:00

The blissful life of regularity has returned. With the DH having the month of December off, I decided it was a good time to sit back and enjoy the season. I actually got the time to read several books, watch movies I've wanted to and in general, just relax. Christmas Eve ushered in a 3 day blizzard with piles of snow and currently, the temperature is around -39 outside! I rarely make New Year's resolutions as most of the time they're broken within the first month or less. However, this year, I promise myself to go someplace warm....and I don't mean my backyard in summer! Can't you just see my smiling face sitting on that chair?

'Tis a good day to catch up on all the blogs that I have so missed this past month. So stay tuned...we're back on schedule!

The Stocking

2009-12-23T07:21:00.008-06:00

This year, I decided to give myself a Christmas present...the gift of time. Time to enjoy every little moment that the days before Christmas arrive to be with friends, family, cook, bake, watch old movies and just appreciate all that I have. I've actually passed on this gift to you with one less blog to read!

And now...a word about that empty stocking.

The DH and I love to watch old black and white movies. Most are PG and the good ones always have a moral behind the story. One of our favorites at this time of year is The Bishop's Wife..a 1947 romantic comedy starring Cary Grant, Loretta Young and David Niven. It tells the story of an ambitious Bishop (Niven) who prays for guidance and an angel (Grant) comes down to set things right with all the people around him. In the end, the Bishop gives a sermon which is so true today. Spoken by Niven in his clean English accent, swelling music in the background..it is one we can all learn from whether we celebrate this holiday or not. We can all give these simple gifts.

Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking.

Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry, a blazing star hung over a stable, and wise men came with birthday gifts. We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries. We celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, with the sound of bells, and with gifts.

But especially with gifts. You give me a book, I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer and Uncle Henry can do with a new pipe. For we forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled, all that is, except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up. The stocking for the child born in a manger. Its his birthday we're celebrating. Don't let us ever forget that.

Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most. And then, let each put in his share, loving kindness, warm hearts, and a stretched out hand of tolerance. All the shinning gifts that make peace on earth.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!

The Traditions

2009-12-06T20:53:00.008-06:00

I've been so busy lately that something had to give and unfortunately, posting took a back seat. This is the time of year when everyone gets busy with shopping, decorating, holiday parties and family get-togethers. While talking to the DH the other night after a Christmas party, we both mentioned that the holidays just seem to be so much more rushed than we ever remember them being. We stretch ourselves so thin that we don't relish the things we enjoy but try to cram everything in. Which brought us to the discussion of our family traditions.

One thing I remember was pulling taffy. Now I'm not a huge fan of the gooey, sugary treats, but I can tell you that is was great fun when the holidays rolled around and Mom decided to make a batch of taffy. She'd bubble the sweet goo in a pan until it was just right..red, peppermint green and vanilla white. The taffy was put on a board to cool slightly. Meanwhile, we scrubbed our hands to the nines...inspection took place...we then greased our hands all over with slimy butter. That's when the fun began! My little brother and I would pull hunks of warm goo back and forth all the while having to grease our hands with more butter. Lots of laughing and chatter going on...Percy Faith Christmas music in the background spinning on an old turntable (I'm dating myself here!). When it was finally pulled to perfection...we'd twist the colors together, cut into strips and wrap the goodies in wax paper. What a mess we made but it was so much fun..way more than even eating the stuff!

Now I haven't pulled taffy in years..always afraid that the kids teeth would further the 401K of our dentist. I'm thinking this year, I want to get away from all the commercialism that Christmas has become and bring back all the old traditions that made it special. Are you carrying on any of your family traditions?

A Little Something Edible....

2009-11-27T07:39:00.008-06:00

I sure hope that everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving enjoying family and friends! So for the day after, I though I would share some little eats with you...you know...maybe something you could do with leftovers! Take a close look...scenes from the London skyline done by Carl Warner and his team of 5 model makers. 26 different types of fruit and vegetables were used to create this skyline. Three weeks later, this is the outcome. I've always thought broccoli would make a great tree!

I have been absent from the blogging world for a week. ' Tis the season for online sellers to ramp up their shops and after sending a newsletter, I've been swamped to say the least. I've missed visiting y'all but I'm back!

Images from TheWondrous.com

You just never know....

2009-11-19T07:12:00.008-06:00

This week has been very busy here...hence me not posting or visiting blogs for a few days. I am asked sometimes to give presentations and talks on antique jewelry to various organizations and at the end of the talks, I always ask the people to bring something of theirs for me to review. Kind of like an Antiques Road Show mini appraisal of their jewels. As with the TV show, most pieces are of the norm...especially in this little neck of the woods. Rarely does someone bring in that hidden treasure...until Monday night.

Brooch Attributed to Hermann Haussler -1910

A little lady listened carefully to the talk, gripping a box and a manila envelope in her hand. She came forward when I asked if anyone had something they wanted to show. She rose, speaking in a heavy German accent, told me she had a piece of jewelry her father had made. It was a sterling silver locket with beautiful enamel work...no signature or hallmarks. I knew in an instant this was not just a normal piece of jewelry! From the manila envelope, she brought out an old family photo with one of the women wearing this locket along with her genealogy tree.

Brooch by Hermann Haussler..no marks..based on enamel work

She then proceeded to tell me the history of her father. He apprenticed under a jeweler in his native country and was specialized in enamel work on sterling silver jewelry. He had to leave Europe due to a family situation, met a Norwegian lad on the boat to the US. Together, they found work out here in ND. He never spoke of his jewelry making or of his life back in Europe. After he died, the whole story came out as to who he really was. His name? Hermann Haussler. The man he apprenticed under? None other than Theodor Fahrner whose Art Nouveau jewelry commands some of the highest prices on the market!

Of course, the lady did not know who Theodor Fahrner was or for that matter how incredibly talented her father was. He never made jewelry again nor created anything artistic once reaching the States. Her comment? "And to think..he ended up being a farmer in Monango, ND!"

We just never know what paths our lives will take or who you'll meet along the way!

All images from Imagevent

And now...a word from our sponsor

2009-11-15T19:54:00.014-06:00

While growing up, it was a treat to be able to watch certain tv shows on a Sunday night. Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom, Walt Disney, Bonanza...all were g rated. Come to think about it...most of the programs way back then were. We had to have all our homework done, had our bath taken and in general, ready for bed. During the holidays, I can still hear the announcer saying "And now, a word from our sponsors..."

Orvis Wool Knit Sweater from NodtoMod Vintage
Perfect weekend sweater to keep away the chill....

Gilded Pine Earrings from TenThings
Simple, elegant...the perfect stocking stuffer to make her smile..

Mini Sleighbell Crystal Charm Bracelet from SoDear2MyHeart
Oodles of tinkling sound to ring the holidays and the envy of any diva...

Plaid 1950's Day Dress from LolaVintage
Fabulous for entertaining without being too dressy....

Marie Ribbon Necklace from Twillypop
Ribbons and pearls are a girl's best friend....

Vintage Wine Quilted Long Bathrobe from Harlowmonroe Vintage
Wonderful way to start the morning with a cup of jo...

With the holidays coming up, I am on a mission to keep anything I purchase either vintage, handmade and for that matter...made right here in the USA! How about you?

Happy Monday all!

PS..if your interested in having linked logo on the blog just shoot me an email!

Good Pickin' Friday

2009-11-13T10:36:00.007-06:00

The Brooklyn Bridge

St Patrick's Cathedral in NYC

London's Tower Bridge

Sydney Opera House

Just when you thought you might have seen all the art forms, you run across something like this. Stan Munro of Syracuse, New York creates replicas of famous buildings from around the world with millions...and I mean millions of toothpicks. Oh...to be that patient! Creativity abounds!

Happy Friday!

Spam...we're not talking ham

2009-11-12T08:09:00.001-06:00

Spam. Not the ham variety but those little emails you get when you know they are totally bogus. I've changed my name to Marta.

Marta is selling sports tickets online through Craigslist using an old ebay ID that I haven't used for over a year. My inbox was inundated the other day with emails from prospective buyers stating they would love to have this great deal I'm offering on Craigslist and they had finally tracked me down with the ebay ID I gave in the ads. My first thought was typical spam email...delete! Then the emails started coming through with the message stating "I am now sending you my credit card number and please hold the tickets". Curiosity started to get the better of me so I logged into the old account and voila...these were all legitimate buyers contacting me through ebay's system! I wouldn't normally be concerned, but these people were giving me their credit card numbers, addresses and phone numbers....and we're talking about all over the US. How gullible are people to send this info to a person who is advertising on Craigslist with an ebay user ID?

I did a post a while back about being Twitter dumb. Never say never...I now tweet and understand the validity of the social networking site for business purposes. It seems that accounts are being hacked over there right and left sending out emails such as "Check your IQ with this test...are you smarter than me?" Open one of those direct messages and it will definitely show your score..idiot comes to mind.

I really must be living in another world. Who gets their jollies from doing this kind of stuff? I understand selling SEC tickets and getting money for them but the other malicious emails for no monetary gain has me baffled. Honesty must be another quality not being taught, but I digress. Have you been scammed through spam?

Today...a big thanks

2009-11-11T10:16:00.007-06:00

Medora, ND

A few years ago, the DH and I were on a little jaunt through the northern part of the US visiting family and my old hometown contemplating a move back. One of the sites to see...and there aren't that many in North Dakota...is Medora which is situated in the Badlands. Incredible scenery, a favorite of Teddy Roosevelt and steeped in history. Every night, they have a musical which plays to a packed house. Talent auditions from all over the US to vie for a spot in the show. Tickets must be reserved in advance...it is a big destination and draw...for ND that is.

On this particular evening, the tribute was to the veterans who have served in war. The DH, after being drafted, served for quite some time in Vietnam and was in quite the thick of things..Plaicou and other areas. There was not a day that he wasn't shot at or privy (if you can call it that) to some kind of skirmish. He does not speak of this time often to me or our family...I venture to say that most people who know him would not even know that he served. He rarely acknowledges the fact or is boastful about doing so. It was, after all, his responsibility and job. On this evening, the musical was spectacular and one that made you proud to be an American. The announcer then asked for the veterans in the crowd to stand so that we could honor their service calling out each war with the men and women standing when their service time was announced. When the Vietnam War was called, I looked at him and he back at me. He then slowly stood up. I can tell you that I had tears in my eyes and total pride knowing that my husband was one that was standing amongst a sea of many.

Today is Veterans Day...a day to remember the men and women that have fought for our America. Even though we may not agree with the political agendas set forth with each war, the fact still remains that there are people that fight and go to war for us on a daily basis. It is a holiday, yes...but there is a meaning in this holiday. Let's not forget what it truly is all about and the servicemen that do strive for our peace.

Instant Gratification

2009-11-09T09:59:00.008-06:00

I think we're all a little guilty of this mental state. We want everything and we want it now. From instant cereals to cellphones and texting. Then there's the health care...instant service, diagnosis and cure. Education? Instant job, high wages and wealth. Shopping? Gotta have those shoes for the upcoming party to match my dress or better yet, let's go for the whole shebang and buy a new outfit. Lets not get into the physical aspect...take a pill and be thinner tomorrow. What you say? You can't pay for it right now? That's ok...we'll just finance it for you or put it on the charge card.

Sometimes, it doesn't surprise me with the economic times we live in today. I remember in my younger days when we got sick, we took an aspirin and did a home remedy. If we really got sick, we got a shot of penicillin from the local doc but I rarely remember going to see him. We never really went to the emergency room and I know there was not a thing called "emergent care clinic". If you wanted to talk to someone on the phone, you sat in the chair in the kitchen hoping someone on the party line wasn't listening in. If you were on a road trip, there were no gameboys, ipods much less cell phones. It was so nice to sit back and enjoy the ride. If you needed to make a call...which never happened..you had to wait till the next town to find a phone. Christmas shopping meant planning ahead for my parents deciding what they could afford and what each child needed. The presents I remember the most are the ones my Mother made for each of us from the jammies to the knitted scarf and hat.

So how does one cure themselves of this addiction? A tough question. I spent yesterday doing a little shopping on the internet and as these thoughts were racing through my brain, I stopped and asked myself, 1. Do I really need that or do I just want it? 2. What is the personal cost to me or my family if I decide to do this? 3. Is what I am doing really important in the scheme of things or will they work out as is? And the most important part thing I always try to remember is that instant gratification is temporary. I really do have everything I could ever possibly need or want and then some.

“The gratification of wealth is not found in mere possession or in lavish expenditure, but in its wise application.”
Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra

The Dunce in the corner...

2009-11-08T13:06:00.012-06:00

That's me for sure...the little guy in the corner with the dunce cap on promising to be good. You see, I have been very remiss in posting several awards that I have gotten. I had them written down on a piece of paper and when cleaning up this past week for the big soiree, I swear, the shop-vac sucked up the sheet! So without further ado and what my addled brain can remember..I'm going to send out some big thanks you's!Sarah at Cottage Garden Studio gave me this very special award. In Sarah's words, "one common virtue, they are loyal friends regardless of race, creed, political affiliations and geography. To honor womanhood and friendship and there is nothing more wondrous a blessing for anyone than for a friend who came and never left your side." I tune in to Sarah's blog every time I'm on blogger and always leave with sound advice or something to think about in my daily life. To you, Sarah, I'll always be there...thank you for the honor! I'm going to pass this on to Kelly over at The Chic Geek. A fabulous blog...really go have a good read!

Emmy at Emmy Mom gave me this super Dragon's Loyalty Award. Love that colorful picture and it is a new one to me! I am new follower on her blog and really enjoy the enthusiasm and verve this young lady exhibits. I'm a commenter..as you prbably haven't guessed already...and this is Emmy's way of saying thank you! I'm going to pass this one to Snap from Tales From Twisty Lane.

Barbara over at A Bird In My Hand honored me with this Kreativ Blogger award. Thank you, Barbara, but truly...this lady is THE creative blogger and then some. She's a published author and writes the best stories on her blog. Even though she may be new to the blogging world (so she says but she writes too darn well to be brand new!), she has taken to it like a duck to water. I'd love to shake her hand...it's even passed the muster of Clint Eastwood ;) and the lady has been on the set of Mad Men. Definitely after my heart! I'm going to pass this award on to PJ over at Seens From The Back Of My Eyelids. I'm new there too but really enjoy the posts!
This one is hilarious...not for me..just my blog! Bhavesh Chhatbar over at Information is Everything sent this present my way. Bhavesh is a writer, traveller, photographer and designer from India and brings the most interesting information out in his blog. I love traveling so is not a wonder that I enjoy reading his blog. I get to live vicariously though his travels!

How lucky can I be? This Honest Scrap award was given to me by two great blogs that I thoroughly enjoy! Matty over at Matty Thoughts is an ardent Phillie fan...he could use some of your love right now as he's feeling World Series pain! He really is a poet and doesn't know it...you must read his acceptance of this award..totally creative... honest to a tee and a loyal commenter. A great blog to check out!
The Divine Mrs. D from Love Is A Verb is the other lady who sent this my way. She's been to 18 or 19 countries, names rats in the New York subway and does MTV voice-overs. Currently fighting bedbugs! I just had to add that last one as you have no idea the trouble it is to get rid of the little buggers! I'm going to pass this on to several people...Sandra at Worlds End Farm , Sara at Twillypop and Vicky over at The Westra World.

If I have forgotten one, please accept my apologies..and let me know! I really would like to to take off this hot dunce cap and stop writing on the chalkboard...my hand has cramps!!

Just what you really wanted to know...

2009-11-07T08:40:00.007-06:00

Anyone that reads this blog knows that I am a word person...or maybe you didn't know. It's one of those seven random facts that you just needed to know..HA! The fabulous Eclectic Element honored me with being her guest blogger so go ahead and click to read the interview here. Meanwhile, if you haven't used a wordle and want to kill some time, it's loads of fun..that is if you have time to kill! Judging by your responses from my last post, we all seem to spend too much time in blog land. It is addicting!

Have a great weekend all

Too much time...

2009-11-05T11:03:00.007-06:00

Just a few random thoughts for Thursday.
I know today that I need to hide my make up brushes as it appears that when other people who will remain nameless use them, I end up with huge red puffy eyelids that droop over my eyes and I can barely see anything.
I also know that the roll on migraine relief stick my DH got for me should have been tested on a less conspicuous spot other than my forehead as I now have a large red warpaint band across the front of my face. Other than looking like I'm still wearing a Halloween mask, I'd say today is a pretty good day...I'm still kicking!

I do have to say, this matchstick art is pretty cool...if you have a lot of time on your hands! Which brings me to the question... how much time do you spend in blogland every day?

Stop to smell the roses...

2009-11-03T21:58:00.006-06:00

My dear friend sent this email to me the other day. I am sure many of you have read it before, but it was a new one to me.

Washington DC Metro Station on a cold January morning in 2007. He played six
Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time approx 2 thousand people
went through the station, most of them on their way to work. After 3 minutes a
middle-aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and
stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule.

4 minutes later:
The violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the till
and, without stopping, continued to walk.

6 minutes:
A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his
watch and started to walk again.

10 minutes:
A 3 year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly, as the
kid stopped to look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the
child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. This action was repeated
by several other children. Every parent, without exception, forced them to move
on.

45 minutes:
The musician played. Only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20
gave him money but continued to walk their normal pace. He collected $32.

1 hour:
He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded,
nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the best musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars. Two days before Joshua Bell sold out a theater in Boston where the seats averaged $100.

I did check this out on Snopes to make sure it was true. One has to wonder how many things of beauty we pass by on a daily basis because we're just too hurried to take notice. Seems we all should take the time to smell the roses.

Happy hump day all!

MIA Blogger...That's me!!

2009-11-02T10:21:00.005-06:00

Call me bad...really bad! I have been away from posting for a few days which also means that I haven't been commenting....I'm a missing in action blogger...that's me! I wish I could say that I've gone fishing, but not the case. Seems I volunteered about four months ago to host a whole group of women at the house yesterday and today which entails lots of cooking, cleaning and basically "puttin' on the dog'"! Since we have been having a month of solid rain, it has made for lots of mud in the house and anyone that knows me, knows I hate to clean. That must be one of the seven things you just have to know, right? Top it off..the vacuum broke so I have been using a Shop-Vac! Those can really suck dirt! Don't be cringing out there...I'm sure someone can relate...please tell me they do so I don't feel like a total idiot!

Pumpkin caramel cheesecakes are ready, silver polished, house semi Shop-Vac clean and I'm good to go. Now I just need to stretch those gray cells and memorize a couple of pages of dialog and I just might make it through the night. I didn't realize that after 50, you can't remember a darn thing. Why is it that I still procrastinate? I'll be checking out some of you wonderful new followers and commenting back to my tried & true buds by tomorrow. It may be a threat, but you know I just love to comment!

I wish I was a kid again...

2009-10-29T12:02:00.016-05:00

Our kids getting ready for Halloween...years ago!!

Decisions were made by eeny-meeny-miney-mo.

Money issues were handled by who was the banker in Monopoly.

Being old was referred to anyone over 20.

Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down meant for great laughs.

War was a card game.

Water balloons were the best weapon.

Baseball cards in spokes transformed your bike into a motorcycle and drove the neighborhood nuts.

Taking drugs meant orange flavored chewable aspirin.

The worst thing caught from the opposite sex was cooties!

Abilities were discovered from a double-dog-dare.

I'd love to be a kid again, wouldn't you? What would you do?

From lovethissite.com

The English Accent

2009-10-27T10:45:00.005-05:00

There's something about an English accent that just makes me stop, listen and be totally enthralled. Perhaps it's the romanticism...who knows. The DH and I often watch English made movies and it takes me at least 5 minutes to start to understand the lingo or the speech patterns. Australia, Great Britain and America all speak the same language but the accent and vocabularies of each country sets them apart. Referring to the "hood" of a car as a "bonnet" is just so much more descriptive to me. Of course, accents in America from region to region can be another story in itself.

Both the DH and I are Northern born so we pretty much have nonexistent accents. This gets passed down to our kids just by listening to us speak. Shortly after we moved to the mountains of North Carolina, our daughter who was in second grade at the time came home from school all excited that they were going to be doing a project.

"Mom, the teacher is asking all the kids to bring something to school to help with the project."
"Great...what are you supposed to bring?"
"Awl."
With my limited carpentry skills all I could think of was a whole group of second graders wielding this sharp object around and thinking this was NOT a good idea. So I politely asked our daughter to ask the teacher again if she was sure that's what she wanted her to bring.

The next day, I pick up our daughter and she emphatically told me the teacher said "awl". I'm not a budinsky parent but this just wasn't my idea of safe. It just didn't make sense that the teacher would have her bring this tool to school, especially in light of the fact that kids get frisked for having any sharp object now. So I told her to have the teacher write me a note figuring I had better cover my daughter's and my you-know-what so we wouldn't get in trouble.

The note arrived the next day saying, "Please contribute "OIL" to our science project. A 16 ounce bottle will do. Thank you!"

Don't you just love the English language!

Happy Tuesday and many thanks for all the well wishes....we're working on it!

Monday Art...

2009-10-26T12:03:00.006-05:00

Last weekend, we had a family get together with kids, grandparents, moms and dads all enjoying family time. Seems that one of the lot was carrying this dreaded flu that is going around and now everybody is fighting it off. I apologize if I haven't been commenting on blogs of late...I will be back in full swing asap! I think it is a good thing to have a forced rest...it's the chicken soup I'm not fond of!

I thought I'd share a bit of farm humor for a Monday. Art? Let's just say the kids don't get bored out here in the boonies! Happy Monday all!

Shopping for shoes...

2009-10-23T10:54:00.009-05:00

I was recently cruising the internet shopping for shoes. Don't all women have a shoe fetish? Really...who could wear these?

Have a great weekend!

Miss Manners, where are you?

2009-10-21T06:34:00.005-05:00

"Dude, watcha want?"
This was the greeting given to my husband while ordering at a restaurant. Dude? My husband is a dude???

Gone are the days when manners were second nature. We can blame things such as gang culture, hoodies and many other things, but it really is society as a whole that has stooped to this lousy manner endemic that in one single generation, has turned into something that my parents wouldn't recognize.

While watching an old "To Tell the Truth" the other day on you tube, the DH and I stopped at the end of the show and just looked at each other. "Did you hear and see that?", he asked me. "Plain as day..impeccable manners." Now this was only a mere 50-60 years ago. Even the first question started with "What is your name, please". Please?

No longer do people say automatically please, thank you much less ma'am or sir. There are signs in buses that tell you to give your seat to the elderly. We need a sign? Or one of my favorites is sitting in a restaurant or movie theater only to hear a ringing cell phone. I know, they tell you to turn them off...this should just be common courtesy. We shouldn't have to be told to do so. If you complain, you're greeted with a barrage of rudeness. Then there's a little something called road rage..honking and abusive gestures. Or the doctor that keeps you waiting for an hour for your appointment. A one second response of "I'm sorry" would be nice. The list can go on and on.

Perhaps some..just a little... of this may be due in part that the new generation womens lib found it demeaning to have a door opened, bag carried, help putting on a coat or even walking on the outside of the sidewalk (if you understand that one, you are clearly over 45!). However, manners towards each other became outdated no matter what your sex, age or class was.

Many of you know that I live in a small town and I can say that manners abound in both the adults and the children. Please, thank you, sir and ma'am are all part of the speech. I think that as grownups, we need to set a high standards for our children and lead by example. Not "do as I say" but "do as I do". My parents practiced this and we, in turn did this with our kids. Manners should not be an option. They are a form of respect and common courtesy and this goes both ways for the kids as well as the adults.

"Good evening, sir. What would you like for dinner?" Aaahhh...now that sounds better!

Sentimental Fool that I am....

2009-10-19T08:02:00.007-05:00

I'm pretty sentimental and I can tell from the comments on some of my posts that most people tend to be sentimental, too. Don't we all yearn for the feeling and emotions of love, nostalgia and idealism? We all hold on to something in the past be it in our thoughts or through a memento. So many things hold a special meaning or tell a story that brings a smile.
The Victorians were notorious for having sentiment and using symbolism. Take for instance this Gutta Percha (a latex produced from the sap of trees) mourning cross necklace. The roses are signifying the person being mourned was a loved one and older as the flower is in full bloom. The person was someone who had been with the wearer of the cross for some time as the daisies have a meaning of youth and innocence. It's kind of like reading a book.

Now I used to think that hair jewelry was gross! The thought of braiding someone's hair and turning it into a bracelet, necklace or watch chain to wear was...well...just plain weird. But then I realized that even in today's time, we save locks of hair. When our dear Collie died a year or two ago, my DH cut a lock of his fur and placed it in his wallet. He's carried it ever since and occasionally pulls it out and smiles at the memory. We save our child's lock of hair after their first hair cut or put a snip of hair in a locket with a picture of a loved one. The list goes on and on.

I like to think that we all want a slower paced time where we can appreciate sentimentality and revel in nostalgia. I know...I'm just a idealistic, sentimental old fool but I think there's one in just about everybody.

The Dating Game

2009-10-16T10:13:00.005-05:00

The other day I happened upon an old video that had The Dating Game on it. You know the old series where three young men vied for a date with a young woman who was hidden from their view She would ask questions that would reveal their nature and later choose the one with home she wanted a date. It was also played with a bachelor choosing from three young ladies. Our modern day version would most likely be the Bachelor altho this guy gets to see the girls.

Out of curiosity, I posed the question to the DH and our two daughters as to what would be their criteria for choosing someone. Talk about varied answers! One daughter said definitely grammar...must have raised that one right! The other said it was important to have manners...chalk up another one! Answers like being clean, having a certain style, confidence, good hair cut, wear cool shoes, compassion and the list goes on and on. Some were fluff reasons and others were deep rooted. All three of them could find reasons that they agreed or didn't agree with the attribute. The one thing they all agreed on was humor....which brings me to a quote Joanne Woodward, wife of Paul Newman, said:

“Sexiness wears thin after a while and beauty fades, but to be married to a man who makes you laugh every day, ah, now that's a real treat.”

A huge thanks to Lenorenevermore for beating me to the punch on the quote..great blog by the way..check her out!

So what would be your criteria?

It's a dogs life...

2009-10-15T12:04:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, we woke up to several inches of snow and it didn't stop until this morning making for a slushy mess. With the drastic weather change, I'm a bit under the weather with the old sinus pressure. I just can't but wish that I were lazing on this glorious beach. I'm just not ready for snow...not yet anyway!

It can be a dog's life at times!

Guarded Secrets

2009-10-13T10:38:00.013-05:00

I'm on a secret mission this week...can't you tell? Yesterday I posted about only two people knowing the secret formula to Coca Cola so today, I thought I'd share several other products that only two people know the secret.

Lena Blackburne Rubbing Mud

Seems that a brand new baseball out of the box is quite slippery so this special mud is rubbed on the baseballs...used by all Major League Baseball teams. Back in the 30's, a coach named Lena Blackburne came across this mud while taking a walk. By 1938, the American League was using it and by 1950, the National League started to use the stuff. Who knows the secret? Only the business owner and his wife. It has been a closely guarded secret as to where the mud comes from other than to know it is from a tributary of the Delaware River.

You're So Vain..who is Carly Simon singing about?

And here I thought I knew this one all along. Turns out that everyone has speculated who the song is about from Mick Jagger (my guess), James Taylor, to Warren Beatty...even her father (my Dh's guess)! Carly knows the secret and in 2003, she auctioned off the knowledge for a mere $50,000 to the highest bidder, Dick Ebersol, president of NBC. He hasn't spilled the beans and she's not ready to either.

The 11 spices that make KFC chicken

Only two executives know the mix. One batch of spices are mixed at one location, the second batch at another location. All come together at a third location just to make sure no one steals all of the ingredients at one time.

Oliver Cromwell's head...seriously!

In case you don't know your history, Cromwell was a guy who, in the 1600's, overthrew the English Monarchy. He died of natural causes and was buried. Once the Monarchy came back, he was exhumed and hung for 12 hours (the English like to do it right!) at which time they put his head on a spike...gruesome. It eventually fell off the spike and has been passed around to museums and collectors. The last guy to have it in 1957 (we're talking 300 years!!) decided enough was enough for Cromwell and two professors at Cambridge University's Sidney Sussex college know the final burying place.

The super special formula to predict the Farmer's Almanac weather

The mathematical and astronomical formula, developed in 1792, uses sunspots, tides and a plethora of other factors to determine the weather for a year. Only the editor Sandi Duncan and an anonymous meteorologist know the formula. Don't let Al Gore in on the secret...I don't think in 1792 they had global warming. Maybe that's why we have snow in October here!

So here's to some little tidbits of keeping a secret!

I've Got a Secret

2009-10-12T10:08:00.007-05:00

Three may keep a secret, if two of them are dead.
Benjamin Franklin

Don't we all love a secret? You know, the kind where someone you know leans over and whispers in your ear "I know something you don't."

There are only a few secrets in this world that only two people know..one is the formula for Coca Cola. Seriously...only two executives of the company know the formula. Of course, this isn't the kind of secret that one finds out sitting next to your friend having coffee. I am fascinated by a different kind of secret....One nary a soul knows...

Most of the visitors here know that I sell antique jewelry. I don't really wear jewelry per se, just a wedding band. But when I get a piece in, I often think about the secrets that they hold. Take for instance this Victorian couple in their wedding photo and the wedding bangles below.

Wedding bangle circa 1890

Pair of Victorian wedding bangles

It was customary during that era to give your bride something that was significant..not a ring as it is in our time. Wedding bangles were exchanged by couples to show their love. All these pieces have a hidden secret that we will never know. I often imagine them sitting on a bench in a beautiful garden while he proposes his love for her. She accepts and he offers her the bangle as a love token. The whispering, blushing and proper manner synonymous with the time. She tucks it away in a safe place to be admired for years to come. Who knows how often she pulls them out, what she is thinking as she caresses each one and what was happening in their life. Romantic secrets, I know...more so than the formula for Coke!

Like Ben Franklin's quote, I'm not good a keeping a secret, but this kind of secret is one just for my imagination. Would you spill the beans of a good secret?

Your Bed of Choice

2009-10-09T08:26:00.011-05:00

I had a huge surprise last night! Our daughter has several days off and drove 12 hours to come and see us. Now tell me if that doesn't make a mom's day! Catching up on everything that has been going on in her life with lots of talking and laughing, we didn't get to bed till late. Needless to say, I'm a bit sleepy eyed today. I'm thinking one of these beds might provide a little comfy sleep time.

The Private Cloud, designed by Manuel Kloker. You could rock yourself to sleep. Not bad unless your partner doesn't like the motion!

The Molecular Bed made of 120 sofa balls with elastic fiber & created by Animi Causa an Isreali designer. Now this one really intriqued me...doesn't it look like you could just slip away?

Cinderella never had it so good! The Fantacy Coach made in England of wood and fiber glass. Sweet dreams here...

The magnetic floating bed with enough magnets to keep 1984 pounds floating in the air. Note is has to be wired to a wall so you don't float away if you roll over in a weird way!

I think I'll stick to my sleep by number bed but I can dream! What's your favorite?
Here's to a fabulous weekend!
All images from thewonderous

"Can Do" Apple Pie

2009-10-08T11:05:00.003-05:00

Have you ever said something and immediately realized "ooops, I'm going to get caught in that little white lie!".

My husband seems to think I make the best apple pie and with the season of crisp fresh apples here, apple pie is in order. Trust me...I didn't always make a decent apple pie but I'm not about to fess up to him that I never could.

Way back when (yes, I'm old) I was totally enamored with this boy from Queens, NY. Coming from ND, the future DH thought that anyone from this area must be a good cook. I wasn't going to let him know that I couldn't find my way around a kitchen much less make anything to sneeze at. He said his favorite thing in the whole world was apple pie. Of course, wanting to impress, I piped up that I made the absolute best apple pie! The DH eyes lit up.

"Hey, I've got a great idea! Next weekend, let's rent a little log cabin out on Montauk Point, walk the the beach and come back to a blazing fire. You make an apple pie! Sounds great to me!"

Oooopps...caught! Let me tell you, for that week, I was scrambling trying to figure out how to make an apple pie..all pre-internet days where you couldn't look up recipes of the best Chefs from the Food Channel. I had to rely on Betty Crocker along with a wing and a prayer. There was no way that I could fool him with a store bought number.

I'm here to tell you, after a long walk on the beach...freezing cold, we stoked the fire and sat down to eat my apple pie. I was looking on with trepidation at the first bite waiting for a reaction. He closed his eyes relishing the taste. The he looked over to me and said, "you DO make the best apple pie and here I thought you were telling a white lie all the time!"

So I do make the "Can Do apple pie" as we call it today but really, I know it was just setting of the cabin, wood fire along with it being freezing outside! I'll never fess up that it was my first ever!

Through Your Heart

2009-10-07T08:30:00.005-05:00

“Even the longest way starts with a tiny step.”
Dimitri

We take so many thing for granted. Although these pictures may seem a bit crude on first look, take a look again. They are painted by a Russian artist named Dimitri....who is blind. So many times we complain of things not being fair in our world but this artist clearly overcame his disability. Painting through your heart and not through your eyes....one step at a time.
Here's to a grateful Wednesday!

A Walk Back in Time

2009-10-06T10:03:00.005-05:00

I'll admit it...I go crazy over old books. Not that I am a pack rat with a house full of them, but I do have a few that I love to read or page through over and over. There is something about the smell of the pages and the hand drawn illustrations that draws me in.

One of my favorites is a compilation of the Illustrated London Times from 1847. It is an oldie for sure but the best part is taking a walk back in time to another era. After reading some of the pages, one realizes that life really hasn't changed that much as far as news goes.

A wedding for a Marquis

The castle and grounds where the wedding party stayed...I think I could live with that!

New improved railway carriage...love that term carriage. The difference between first-class and second-class accommodations. The class structure is clearly evident throughout.

What newspaper wouldn't be complete without the political strife? Poems were written...some quite scathing about the political beliefs and the heads of state. Now that's not too far from what we read or hear on the television today.

I have to think while thumbing through these pages that most things have not really changed throughout the years. We have many luxuries that weren't available back then, but clearly we seek the same things to read much that the people 160+ years ago read. Put into basic terms, how much has anything really changed?

The Wedding Weekend

2009-10-05T10:08:00.015-05:00

I have been a bit absent from the blogging world but for a very good reason. This weekend, my niece got married. It wasn't a large wedding but what fun we had! The ceremony was beautiful and simple...I seem to tear up at weddings no matter who is getting married! The best part is the whole family getting together and having a great time. In this neck of the woods, it is all about the wedding dance afterwards. Everybody lets their hair hang down...a real down home celebration!

The bride and my sister's granddaughter

The women of the family

My brother, the spoon man. His record is nine at one time. Just imagine, he's one of the top vascular and trauma surgeons. Do you think he knows how to have a good time?

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. His grandson even knows how to hang spoons!

What wedding dance isn't complete without the YMCA song!

Some of you may recognize my daughter, NodtoMod Vintage. This was her first family wedding and I don't think she knew what was in store. Victory after catching the bouquet!

My shy..and 6'6" tall nephew...even got coerced on to the dance floor..

Even my Mother, all 87 years, waltzed with my brother...

Spoon man, my brother, gave me a twirl around the floor..a terrific dancer btw...

The best sisters one could ever ask for...

Mom and daughter. Dressed to kill with dresses from NodtoMod Vintage. Zach is wearing a 1940's Jonathon Logan and she outfitted me in a 1950's Gigi Young..available in her shop. It's great having a closet full of vintage to grab and go!

Let's just say, my feet are recovering from blisters! Not a problem as it was so much fun...kind of hard to get back into the Monday routine. So here's to a happy Monday and a great week!

Just a Compliment

2009-10-01T08:11:00.007-05:00

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
Leo F. Bascaglia

Ahh..the simple compliment. Face it, we all like to get a compliment. No matter if we're insecure or shy, it makes us feel good inside and we smile. I know it does for me but the whole key is a sincere compliment...one that is honest. If I give a compliment, it's because I mean what I say and don't flippantly throw them out there for acceptance. We all know the compliments that weren't given in truth and we begin to second guess the person giving the praise.

My DH has taken on being a chef at the college here...something he isn't trained for (he's a graphic artist and fashion photographer) but they were in dire need after the head chef left. He's always had a love of cooking and has quite the reknowned reputation. He came home yesterday flying on cloud nine. They needed some kind of soup for the day so he set out to make his beef stew...original, from scratch and not from a can. Several of the students going through the line made the comment, "I was told to have the beef stew..it's fabulous!" A simple affirmation, honest, and turned his whole world around.

It's really not difficult to do and once you do start, you will see a difference in people and they're response back to you. Who knows, you may compliment someone, start a conversation and become friends!

The Best Exercise Ever!

2009-09-29T11:03:00.004-05:00

We've all watched those commercials or videos where the kids are laughing uncontrollably. Don't we all join in or at least give a smile? Have you ever been out somewhere and someone starts to laugh and you find yourself joining in?

I've adopted a new policy that when something gets me down or I'm being confronted with a situation that I don't like, I smile. Sometimes it almost hurts to smile as I am so mad, but I do it anyway. Amazingly, it seems to change the whole situation for me..the tone of my voice changes and more importantly, the person I'm speaking with or typing to, changes their tone as well. Researchers say that laughing or smiling increases endorphins, the body's natural pain killers. It lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and improves ones sense of well-being. Now who couldn't use a little of those in our lives and guess what? You don't need a pill to get those...you just have to smile.

When was the last time you had a really good belly laugh? Trust me...give a smile or laugh today and see how much better everything seems!

The last rose...

2009-09-28T09:54:00.004-05:00

"'Tis the last rose of summer,
Left blooming alone;
All her lovely companions
Are faded and gone."
- Thomas Moore, The Last Rose of Summer, 1830

I woke up this morning to the thermometer reading a very chilly 40 degrees. The wind is howling at 40MPH which to my calculations buts us below freezing. Our Floribunda rose has pushed out its last hurrah, the leaves on the trees are falling, and the smell of ripening apples is in the air. I think I'll be staying inside today and light a nice warm fire to keep warm. Perhaps those apples are calling me to make my DH's favoirte apple pie...it is his birthday afterall!

Happy Monday!

A Small Town Celebration

2009-09-26T13:19:00.014-05:00

There's something about a small town when it comes to celebrations. Everyone comes out of the woodwork for a fun filled day. Our small town...and I mean small..was having their annual Apple Fest Celebration..here's a glimpse at some of the festivities.

All the stores decorate...

A parade wouldn't be complete without the horse drawn buckboard with a cowboy at the reins..

Even the local businesses have their floats...

A miniature version of an old stagecoach inn that is still operating...

Homemade baked goods are always a hit...

Even the crafters sport their wares...

A furrier demonstrates his craft...

You've got to have bed races done by all ages...

Apple pie eating contest...turns out it was whipped cream and you needed to locate the gummy bear amidst the white foam. Oh...to be young again!

This little sweetie sums up the feeling of just about everybody that was there...lots of smiles!

Just a little insight into the small town life! Hope you're all having a great weekend!

Do you have a smell??

2009-09-25T10:45:00.007-05:00

I'm not one that likes to wear perfume so I have never thought of myself as having a scent or particular smell. I guess I have lived in too many large cities with subways and elevators full of people who douse themselves in cologne or perfume. To my surprise, it seems that I do have a scent that is inherent just to me.

While my daughter was folding laundry on the kitchen table, I hear a big "Aaahh".
"Anything wrong?"
"No, but you're t-shirt smells so good!"
I picked up the t-shirt, give it a sniff and then smelled the rest of the t-shirts.
"Hon, it smells just like the rest of the laundry."
"No it doesn't. It has that Mama smell."

Out of the mouths of babes!

Hope you have a wonderful Friday! I'm off to auctions and can't wait to feel that jitter in my stomach as I raise my paddle!

Change your mind...

2009-09-23T08:16:00.005-05:00

Photo manipulation by Christophe Huet

“Whatever you hold in your mind will tend to occur in your life. If you continue to believe as you have always believed, you will continue to act as you have always acted. If you continue to act as you have always acted, you will continue to get what you have always gotten. If you want different results in your life or your work, all you have to do is change your mind.”
Quote author unknown

Here's to an open minded Wednesday!

I Will NEVER Do That Again!

2009-09-20T20:46:00.007-05:00

The wonderful Dena over at Thoughts by Dena tagged me to post 10 things that I would never do again. I can honestly say, there is one that qualifies for all ten things.

While my kids were growing up in Miami, they attended a very small private school. The science lab had all sorts of different animals and during vacation periods, parents would take the animals home and care for them. The science teacher asked one day, "Any child that knows their parents would care for an animal over Christmas vacation, raise your hand." My son piped up excitedly, "My mom will...she loves animals!" Of course, there was a sign up sheet for which animal but when my son came home and excitedly told me he volunteered us to take care of an animal, he neglected to mention that one tiny fact!

On the last day of school before vacation, I went to the lab to pick up "our" animal. Upon entering, the room was empty except for two cages. The teacher approached and said how happy she was that we would be taking care of an animal. I was eying the cage with the tiny white mice thinking this was going to be a piece of cake. Mice are easy, right? The teacher reached into the cage next to the mice and pulled out a huge boa!

I almost fainted right then and there! This is a photo she took while "training" me how and what to do for this "animal" that obviously no one else signed up for. It didn't help that I was 7 months pregnant either! Not only did I get the snake to care for, but that little cage of white mice? Yep, that came with me, too..for food!!

There was a happy ending to the story if you want to call taking care of a boa happy. The snake decided this was prime time to molt so was very quiet, did not want out of the cage and the best part...did not want to eat so I didn't have to sacrifice any mice. At least it wasn't the tarantula!!

The moral of the story...make sure you get all the details...and tell your kids to keep their hands down!!

It's Ferret Friday!

2009-09-18T13:33:00.004-05:00

Photo of baby ferrets taken from a rescue site

I've owned a ferret or two and they were just the best little critters. Couldn't resist this adorable picture of these cute kits. Hope your weekend isn't this squished!

What was meant to be...

2009-09-17T10:13:00.007-05:00

Have you ever had something enter your life that you felt was just meant to be? Several readers have commented on the new header wondering what the painting was and I thought I might give a little explanation.

Several years ago, the DH and I decided to pack our bags after living on the East coast for many years and move back to my roots. Small town, but the question was...where do we live? In a rather weird turn of events, we found our house. Now the weird part turned out to be something that was meant to be.

The son inherited the house when both parents died over 30 years ago. He lived on the East coast and just couldn't bring himself to sell the place. So he rented it out to a single man who only lived in two rooms..the kitchen and a bedroom...just to keep the house heated. Nothing..and I mean NOTHING had been moved since both parents died. Rooms were full of furniture, clothing, paper, pictures...even down to the flour in the pantry. Nothing had been touched. Kind of eerie.

For some reason, the woman of the house had followed my career in NY and Miami and saved any articles or photos that she could find. I was totally unaware until the son offered the house to us saying that his mother would have wanted it this way. The condition of the sale was that we take it lock, stock and barrel..as is...you clean up the mess.

We bought the house sight unseen although I knew what it looked like on the outside after living in this little town. Very few people entered the front door...the woman was a bit of a recluse coming from the East coast and being transplanted in a very small town. Kind of like a fish out of water. Well educated, an artist and a lover of fine things. The drapes were always pulled.

Close your eyes and think pink. Everything..the walls the trim, the kitchen, the fireplace bricks, the steps...were all painted pink! Then imagine "stuff" everywhere..wall to wall. It took us months of going room to room sifting through possessions and paper. For an antique lover such as myself, it was pure nirvana. To someone else, it was junk. Every nook and cranny and every piece of furniture housed some treasure. While cleaning off a buffet that had only a few papers on top, I came upon an envelope and recognized the writing. It was mine! A graduation announcement from 35 years earlier...the only one and I am sure many announcements had passed through this house before. I started to get goosebumps.

Every treasure, piece of paper, art work that we found, we could appreciate. She was a fastidious labeler..everything had a little note at the bottom saying what it was. Instead of throwing out, we started to use all of these beautiful treasures as they worked so well with ours. We even came across a prominent family members wedding veil from 1840 that we sent to a museum out east. Another goosebump moment came while looking through a paper clipping of the ladies obituary. We lost a daughter at a very young age and while reading the ladies obit...our daughters was right next to hers. Divine intervention? A long term path now being walked?

The banner header was a shadow box minitaure oil on wood from a Canadian Artist named White circa mid 1800's which we found buried amongst papers. To this day, it is one of my favorites. If you enlarge the photo above, you will see the picture of the lady..of which the dress she is wearing was found in a cedar chest in one of the closets! The other pictures are examples of her art work that we found around the house tucked in chests and closests. I like to think that this was her escape into her own world.

Meant to be? I like to think so..

New Twist on a Handbag

2009-09-16T10:27:00.011-05:00

Handbags by Kathleen Dustin

Kathleen Dustin's collections are made in a unique baroque style in the form of fruits, flowers, boxes, brushes, icons and collages with drawings in the style of the Renaissance. Many are exhibited in museums. I would put one of these under glass and just stare...such creativity!
Happy Wednesday!

Quick...Scarf it up!

2009-09-15T07:29:00.007-05:00

Do you like vintage? Well, I'm vintage that's for sure, but I'm talking about clothes. Now don't click off too fast. See that really simple scarf? Who couldn't find a place for that in your wardrobe and guess what, dear readers? It's a giveaway that ends this afternoon! Hosted by So about what I said and given by Nodtomod Vintage, that little number could be yours and all you have to do is leave a little comment. How simple is that? Click...comment...no strings attached...really!

A little side note...I want to wish Happy Birthday to SoDear2myHeart who has become a true friend. We've never met in person... it matters not. After all, I've had the pleasure to meet the inside and that's the most important of all. Yes, Terri...that's you! Just remember that wise quote by Luis Bunuel.

“Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese.”

Happy Tuesday, all!

Wasting time...

2009-09-14T10:43:00.007-05:00

The air outside is crisp and the weather cooling. Fall is here. That lead me to wonder where did summer go? Is it just me or did it seem to fly by in a flash? Time is something that we can't go back and recover...it just keeps marching forward and we had better keep up. I was reading an article online where it listed the top five reasons for wasting time.

Television. Now I can honestly say this is not one of my downfalls. We rarely watch TV as we have a subscription to Netflix. Scheduled movie time..and not very much unless we want to relax.
Commuting. That's a super easy one that doesn't fit the bill here either. Living in a small town and working online means not sitting in a car for an hour every day.
Lack of skill. This was a bit humorous to me as I rarely tackle something that I don't understand what I'm doing. I certainly am not going to attempt tiling a bathroom when I know it isn't my forte.
Being tired. Now we're getting somewhere. Seems that if we're tired, we don't perform to our maximum capacity. Oh yeah, this one hits home. I have a tendency to work when I'm tired, wasting time trying to perform when I'm physically unable to operate at my full potential. I hear naps calling me!
Internet browsing. This is a biggie for me. Running an online business, I spend the majority of my hours in a day on the internet. Not really wasting time as it is for work, but I do get side tracked at times. Let me correct that...LOTS of times!

I can't retrieve those lazy summer days but it sure makes me think about how to use my time wisely for the fall season that is upon us. What's your biggest time waster?

Finally..it works!

2009-09-13T10:50:00.004-05:00

Finally..the blogger gods have moved to another location and I am able to post pictures and return to blogs. Oh...I have missed you all terribly...seriously. Who ever would have thought that blogging would become such an integral part of one's day, but it has in my world. I had to change things up, had all the followers disappear as well as the blog roll....humph. So If I missed you in the side bar, let me know. It's still a work in progress..isn't life that way? I'll be catching up with you all today...

I'm jumping through hoops screaming yippee! Hope your Sunday is relaxing!

I'm on a mission...

2009-09-09T09:08:00.006-05:00

I'm on a mission today. I've read on blogs in the past that they were having trouble uploading pictures, giving comments and the like. I read them and thought, "Gee, that's never happened to me!" Ha..little did I know that it was just be a random drawing of the blogger gods. It hit me a couple of days ago while trying to update the blog. No pictures coming up...says I have an internal error. How do they know what my "internals" are like? Commenting...same thing. Says it posts a comment when in fact, it doesn't. Some are getting through, but others are not. Linking? Same story. Argh!!! Hopefully, this post will show?!?!

So, dear readers, I'm on a mission...to try and make this work today! Hope you have a superb Wednesday and know I'm trying to read and comment to you.

Roller Blading Mama!

2009-09-05T11:19:00.003-05:00

With the long weekend upon us, I thought I might try something I've been thinking about for some time. My sister brought down a couple pairs of roller blades about a year ago and they have been calling to me from the corner where they have been sitting since then. I used to roller blade years ago, but haven't put on a pair for fear of totally wiping out and breaking every bone in my body! I'm thinking it would be a blast to give it a try again..nice weather and all. I have a huge roll of bubble wrap and think that might be a good idea for protection. Either that or borrow my mother-in-law's walker!

If I manage to coerce someone into taking pictures without them totally rolling on the ground from laughing, I'll post them. No promises...they may be of me in the ER! Any big plans for the weekend?

Weird Animals & a lot of TCB

2009-09-03T08:17:00.008-05:00

Long eared jerboa...mouse-like rodent found in China & Mongolia

Hispaniolan solenodon..teeth capable of delivering venom..found in Haiti & Cuba

Star-nosed mole with 22 fleshy tentacles to identify food..found in North America!

I'm not a big fan of Elvis Presley...don't shoot me, please....but I loved the name of his back-up band....TCB. That's what I've been doing while being absent from the blogger world. Takin' Care of Business. Add a "Y" and I could really enjoy one of those frozen delights!

I stumbled across some of these weird animals that inhabit our planet. Let me tell you...if I found this mole while digging in my garden, that would be the end of me! It truly amazes me what lives right here on earth with us...some super cute and others that make us run in the other direction. I know these little darlings exist but has anyone ever seen one?

What kind of sandwich are you?

2009-08-31T08:17:00.006-05:00

I know that sounds like a silly title for a blog post, but I just couldn't help the metaphor. Sunday is a day in our house that we kind of play "catch as catch can" when it comes to meals. It's a way for the chef to take the day off and just have everyone do their own thing. This usually means something simple like sandwiches or some leftovers stuck in the fridge. My DH made a sandwich similar to this.

Tall, concise, full of good stuff and all around satisfying.

Mine looked much like this one..not because I didn't want one similar to his, but this was the time and energy that I was going to put into a sandwich. As I sat and stared at the two, I realized they summed up quite a bit of who we were in life at this present time...silly I know.

Oh yeah, I'm full of some of the good stuff..protein and fruit etc...but it's packaged differently. I have a tendency to spread myself too thin and then am always back tracking playing catch up. I say "yes" when I know I should say "no" as it takes away time from something else. The DH on the other hand doesn't do that. He knows the amount of time it takes to for each thing and doesn't spread himself thin. He can give the full amount without feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand and feels total satisfaction in the end.

I really would like that deli sandwich...I'm working on it! What kind are you..the PBJ or the deli?

I Dare You!

2009-08-28T07:39:00.005-05:00

One thing I have always wanted to do was skydive. I know..crazy wish. Something about jumping out of a plane at 10,000 feet and floating above the earth is appealing. No one has ever dared me yet. Probably a good thing as I am one of those that if you dare me, I will do it. And no, if you dare me here that doesn't count!!

I guess my biggest worry would be plummeting to earth wondering where my rip chord was so the parachute would open. Now I know I can't just rent a parachute from the costume store on the main street and take a leap out of my friend's Cessna! I know I'd have to do a course and find a drop zone..none are in my area, but it still doesn't hurt to dream!

What's your most daring wish?

How to View A Bathroom

2009-08-26T10:24:00.009-05:00

clean by lintmachine

Bathroom reading by thejbird

What the spider saw... by Zach ManchesterUK

Just another view... Happy Wednesday!!

Photos from the Digital Photography School

Just Choose One..Any One!

2009-08-25T07:37:00.006-05:00

I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately and apologize for not visiting blogs and commenting. You see, I've been having a lot of choices thrown at me and I just couldn't make a decision. Have you ever had that happen where there are choices to be made, you aren't sure which one is the right one and you end up not making any choices? For me, the fear began to take over and I was crippled...felt this overwhelming anxiety that I would miss the latest and greatest that would help me. I felt just like the ostrich that stuck it's head in the sand...even though they don't do that but it sure felt that way!

Then I read a saying on a blog from the Abraham Hicks method. There is no such thing as a wrong choice. They say that if you make a wrong choice, your inner self will help you to correct it by making a new choice. The catch is not to stay in limbo making no choice at all. I can tell you...it's very unsettling. So I made a choice for that moment, took my head out of the sand and started to move forward. Today, I don't feel bogged down and uneasy. I still have lots of choices. We will always be presented with choices every day...they keep coming and coming, never ceasing. Is there a latest and greatest or a best one? None of them are fatal...our inner self will balance them out. I just have to choose. Are you getting "stuck" not making choices?

A Double Pleasure

2009-08-23T19:52:00.003-05:00

I have the extreme honor of being awarded this wonderful award..The Bella Sinclair award. In Ces's words..."I designed this award to celebrate art in the blogs and to honor the value of friendship, sisterhood, sharing and caring. It is to be awarded to the gifted, accomplished, eloquent and talented blogger whose friendship and influence inspire us to do our best. That I named it after Bella Sinclair is because she epitomizes all of these things. She is an inspiration to many of us."

Two wonderful women offered this award to me and the part that makes it so special...they are sisters! Two different blogs....Sarah at Cottage Garden Studio and Barbara at A Bird In My Hand. Sarah is not new to the blogging world and I "quilt with her every Monday...you must stop on over for the inspirational meeting. Barbara is new to the blogging world but has taken to it like a duck to water writing the most interesting posts. And no wonder...she is a writer! The friendship and support these awesome ladies give is beyond and I am truly honored and thank you so much. Now I can pass this on to a blog I have grown most fond of....Julia at Drawn to the Sea.

And lastly, I have been asked to do a meme from The Inkwell Alley. If you really want to know some of the dirt, check it out here! I hope your weekend has been fantastic!

You say you want to be a chef?

2009-08-20T08:18:00.012-05:00

The Barefoot Contessa

Giada DeLaurentiis

Emeril Lagasse

Paula Dean

Maio Batali

Rachael Ray

Bobby Flay

There is always the quiet chatter of the TV in the background while my DH and I work in our office. It usually is some stock channel or news but occasionally, he'll have on the Food Network. You see, I'm not the chef in the family. The DH comes from a long line of NY chefs and our daughter (nodtomod vintage) is a trained Paris Cordon Bleu chef so I don't need to enter the kitchen much. I'm more the baker of the family and with the good food they produce, who needs a rich dessert? I posed the question to the two of them who was their favorite chef on the Food Network and the banter that flew was quite interesting. They had other favorites but the key was that the chef had to have a show on the Food Network. It went from "I wouldn't mind being this one because they get to travel" to "That one's cute!". "Ahem!!! Guys, I was talking about who do you like as far as how they cook?!?!" Their top choice was Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa for her simplistic good meals that anyone can make. Ok foodies, who's your favorite?

Come Fly With Me!

2009-08-19T10:24:00.013-05:00

Via Normandie2005 on Flickr

In France, a new world's record was set for the most hot air balloons in a row...329.

What a beautiful way to fly! Join me?

What Dreams are made of....

2009-08-18T07:51:00.004-05:00

Last night, I was awakened from a sound sleep by mumbled shouting only to look over and see the DH in the moonlit room flailing his arms in the air. He wasn't stopping either when I rolled over, so I gently tapped his arm to just waken him enough without coming fully awake. All of sudden he grabs my hand and starts to bend my fingers backwards....hard! By this time I'm straight up in bed screaming "Uncle"! Fortunately for my fingers, that did the trick of waking him from the boogie men. Seems that someone had broken into our house and was swinging a machete at him and he was fighting them off. Me touching his arm was the perfect time in the dream for him to grab the guys hand and wrestle the machete free. It worked, although my hand was killing me!

I have always been fascinated with dreams and what they signify in our loves. As a child, I use to have these amazing dreams of flying over fields, enjoying the landscape below...free as a bird. Lucid dreams. Then there are those where I'm being chased by some attacker who is gaining on me. Or that dream where you take a flying leap off a cliff and shoot up in bed before you hit the bottom. Ever have some of these?

Dream interpretation uncovers an amazing source of information that can help us along in our lives. They can help us decode what our inner self is trying to say to us if we just listen. When we go to sleep at night, we are liberated from activities that we would not normally do in our everyday life...repressing thoughts. We can go anywhere, be anybody and do anything. Only we can truly know what our dreams are telling us and help us through tough situations.

Now I wonder if that machete wielding burgler will come back since my DH successfully wrestled the machete free. What's your favorite dream?

Pulling the Plug...

2009-08-17T08:53:00.004-05:00

I've found with running your own online business it's really easy to get caught up with all the social networking, social media, social computing...everything social and all plugged in. We're all trying to stay ahead of the game by "plugging in" to iPods, iPhones, blackberrys...any thing that will make a perfect world. We wake up to a cup of perfect coffee made by the perfect automatic coffeemaker, download the perfect tunes just to our liking, pay bills online perfectly without seeing a real teller, turn on the tv and order the perfect movie...even order the perfect pizza and send email without seeing the postman. What's missing here?

Perfect world? I believe in real social networking..the face to face kind where everything gets unplugged to relax and recharge our batteries with people who are significant in our lives. Even though I wish I could click my fingers and be on a sandy beach, drinking a cool chardonay, it's not financially feasible. Weekends are spent cooking great food, chatting on the porch, playing games and having a perfect get away...all unplugged. It may not be the perfect world and the coffee may be strong, but the face to face is so worth the effort. Do you unplug?

I'm not a tat lady...

2009-08-14T10:35:00.011-05:00

I've never been a fan of tattoos and it seems to be the rage of the day for the younger generation....me being so old you know. Back in the day, tattoos happened when you had way too much fun and woke up the next morning trying to remember the dare you did the night before and seeing a permanent heart with "I love so and so" somewhere on your body. Tats have come a long way presenting quite an art form. I'm still shy about them, though. This is my kind of body art...incredible to look at...wear and wash away! Do any of you sport a tat?
Have a terrific weekend!

Beards & Unders

2009-08-13T10:53:00.004-05:00

David Traver

I know...I'm obsessed with beards this week! With my post of yesterday, I had to share a comment from one of the readers:

"Well what would I be if the reining World Beard and Moustache Champion over-all didnt say thanks for being a fan, and for the one person who didnt get it, I'm the second form the top. It was a snow shoe - "Alaska" theme.. get it. The category was full beard free style and no American had ever won it before let alone the over all title. I think the greatest thing was we raised over $15,000.00 for charity. I'm clean shaven now as I cut it off for charity and have retired from competition except as a judge. Please feel free to visit the official site of the 2009 WBMC and have a peek at our history."
David Traver

From the other comments, it appears that women..at least those reading this blog...have a preference for facial hair. Are we looking for a time past or is it the fashion of the day?

And here's another fun quiz I found over on Twitter. What your unders say about you! Go ahead...please share. I seem to be quite boring being of the comfort variety. Now what does that say about me??
Have a terrific Thursday!

A Word on Facial Hair

2009-08-12T10:35:00.011-05:00

Photos from The world Beard & Moustache Championships 2009

I'm the kind of gal that loves facial hair on a man. Th DH has had a beard or partial beard since I have known him. One day while we lived in Miami, he decided to shave it off with our 6 year old son standing at the bathroom sink watching. A guy thing I presume. He got as far as shaving the beard part leaving the moustache intact to which our son comes downstairs to tell me. Our son runs back upstairs to watch the rest of the process.
DH: "Well, buddy, what do you think?"
Son: "Pretty cool!"
DH: "Ok then, let's go for the moustache."
Son: "Dad, not a good idea. Mom's already downstairs crying!"
Fortunately, his beard grew in fast but I swear, I was married to somebody else for the duration it took to fill in! How astute kids can be!

The world's most elite moustache and bearded men competed in Anchorage, Alaska in May. Now some of this facial hair is even beyond me! How about you..got a favorite?
Have a great Wednesday!

Procratination Inoculation

2009-08-11T09:29:00.006-05:00

You know what you need to do. You know the reasons behind why you need to do something. If you're anything like me, you have one small problem. You just can't seem to get moving. I knew yesterday the post I wanted to do today. "First thing in the morning" I told myself. The computer goes on, I check the email, the different sites I sell on and then I turn on my Twitter account and open a page for my blog. Needless to say, two hours later, I am now writing the post. Procrastination for sure!

We all put things off...at least I think most people do. I think it is an innate part of us. Some of us may be chronic procrastinators or maybe we just feel overwhelmed and paralyzed by the task at hand. For me, I kind of like the thrill..if you can call it a thrill...of coming within an nth of the deadline. Whatever the task, it sits and gathers dust. So I've decided to get an inoculation and see if I can't get the mojo flow back into a rhythm. I'm making a list..to do every morning, I'm going to use my most productive morning hours and not twitter them away (no offense twitter, but you can be addictive and time consuming as I have been told), tell the DH my plans for the day...he'll keep me in check and lastly, try to be more decisive.

Sounds like a plan. I'm thinking I need to get my thrills elsewhere. Do you procrastinate?

Old Dog...New Tricks..

2009-08-10T10:11:00.009-05:00

We have always been Collie fans have had owned a dog for over 30 years. Our well loved pet died about a year and a half ago and we vowed that we would not get another dog...maybe time for travel and a little less responsibility. One of our horses needs to be on a weekly med so every week, we make the short trip to the vet to pick up a tube of bute (horse aspirin). The vet does boarding and for three weeks, we would see this little Sheltie bouncing around in the fenced yard.

On the third week, my DH walks over to pet the little girl while I go inside and purchase the meds. He walks in and asks the vet "When are they coming to pick up that dog? Pretty long vacation the owner must be having."
Vet: "Oh, she's up for adoption."
DH, without hesitation shouts, "DONE!"
Me, the ever pessimistic one: "Wait a minute here...you have no clue why she's up for adoption. There might be a good reason she's still here and we might not be able to deal with the problems."
DH, the ever optimist in situations: "She's cute, a small version of our buddy and we can teach her anything."

The vet just looked on with amusement at this repartee and finally pipes up that the dog is a cat killer...eats cats that get near her! She said the other thing is that she runs away..ALL the time. You can never let her out the door unless she has a lead on and by all means, you'd better have a fenced yard or you'll never see her again.

Jump forward to last winter which was incredibly cold. Enter Sam the stray cat who we just couldn't leave outside..we're suckers for all animals. The guy lived on our porch all winter but for darn sure, we couldn't let him in the house as we have a cat eater. This spring and summer, Sam the cat has been living in our backyard...right along with Hannah the cat eater and never the twain have fought. Hannah walks with us without a lead, stops at street corners, and listens to commands. Every morning, the cat and dog look forward to their walk together. Yep, the cat goes on walks with the dog!

You can teach an old dog new tricks. Now this old dog..every year seems to be adding up...needs to learn some new tricks, too. Seems we're never too old to learn!

You Call This Paper?

2009-08-07T13:39:00.008-05:00

Allen & Petty Eckman - Paper Sculptures

I have been curiously absent from the blogging world. Lots of being busy but mostly lack of internet connection. A lightning bolt struck the water tower across the street and took out our internet access and cables throughout the house. Fortunately, computers are fine..just a lot of fried wiring. I have to say, it was beautiful to watch the storm..kind of makes you feel quite miniscule in the scheme of life! So for a Friday, I'm sharing some incredible paper sculptures. You read that right..paper! Now if I had only known this when I was spitting paper wads in school...

Have a great weekend all!

A Wave of Thought

2009-08-05T07:41:00.006-05:00

Clark Little, an amazing surf photographer

I can't believe that summer is almost over. Seems like only yesterday that it was -30 outside. So my thoughts are at the beach...listening to the waves and feeling the saltwater spray on my face. Want to join me?

Perception...just how blind am I?

2009-08-03T07:01:00.007-05:00

I love these illusions where the mind and eye play funny tricks. The checkered sphere in the front is the same size as the one in the back but our eyes deceive us. That just can't be so..that's not what I see!

I've been away from the blogging world for a few days...had to go to a wedding shower. In this neck of the woods, that means a long drive to somewhere which would entail a minimum of several hours there and what seems like even more on the way back. Well, that means that I needed to have something other than my grubby khakis and polo shirt to wear. I went scrounging around in the closet, come out with a couple of things and try them on for the DH. We have this great mirror at the bottom of our stair landing that is perfect for seeing how something looks...at least I thought it was!

"Hon? What do you think of this skirt? I think it makes me look really wide."
Without raising his head from the computer, "Looks really good...you know, I've always told you that I thought you were gorgeous."
Not to be deterred by a flippant comment when I know darn well he hasn't looked, I trudge upstairs and try another.

"Hon? How about these pants and shirt? What do you think?" I'm seeing that 5 acre spread I've always wanted.. it just didn't come in the form of land. It's been at least 3-4 years since I've had them on and for the life of me..I didn't remember them hugging the side of my thighs that way when I used to wear them.
"Looks really good...you'll have a hard choice." Still not raising his head from the computer.
"Come over here and really give me your honest opinion...you're not even looking!!!" pouty face me blurting out.

He stands behind me and I swear, it was like looking at the two of us in one of those weird mirrors. "You see, I am looking and you are just as gorgeous as the day I met you!! And no, you don't have a five acre spread!"

Our self image gets so caught up in what we see in magazines, through the internet and on TV. Looking in a mirror, I see the age creeping in, everything heading south and just not "looking" like I did when I was younger. My perception of how I looked was strictly on the outside and a skewed one at that where my husband was seeing from the inside..the real person and not the reflection I was seeing in the mirror.

How many times do we look at ourselves in the mirror or see someone on the street and miss the real person only because we perceive ourselves or them just in the outward appearance? Add another thing to my list of to do's...use my perception to attain awareness and understanding of really what is inside and not just what we see on the outside.
Hope your Monday is fantastic!

Can't we all get along...

2009-07-30T11:30:00.008-05:00

Bobcat & Fawn (Credit Lisa Mathiasen/ Animal Rescue Team)

These two animals, and many others were rescued from the Jesusita fire due to the dedication of volunteer efforts of the Animal Rescue Team and the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network.

Who says we can't learn something from animals?

"Stop Smackin' That Gum"

2009-07-29T06:59:00.008-05:00

Italian artist Maurizio Savini who uses pink chewing gum as material for his sculptures

Those words reverberate in my head every time I even think of putting a stick of gum in my mouth. Gum chewing wasn't something that we did growing up in our house...at least we didn't want to get caught doing the chewing.

When I was really young, I was invited to a birthday party where the prize given for blowing the largest bubble with bubblegum was a beautiful pin wheel with a tube of colorful candy for the stick. Remember those? Of course, my ability at chewing or blowing gum was pretty limited with the rules of our household. I didn't win the prize but went home vowing that next year, I was going to have that pinwheel! I convinced my brother it was a good idea...don't we all need a cohort in crime? We would hunt for pennies on the street, under sofa cushions, anywhere we could find those shiny copper numbers that would get me closer to my goal. Once found, off to the local Five & Dime where we would put our grubby little hands into the jar and pull out some pink chewy goodness wrapped in blue and yellow paper.

"Stop smackin' that gum!" continually echoed from the next room as we would blow bubbles right and left trying to be as quiet as we could. Kids don't think of cavities at that age.

I'm here to tell you that I did win the pinwheel the next year..shared it with my cohort....and to this day, can still blow a mean bubble. Now I'm thinking this talent could have been put to some very good use...who ever would have thought you could create art with bubblegum?

Blogging Thanks

2009-07-28T15:47:00.011-05:00

I am so late today...what ever happened to that 36 hour day? I seem to have lost it all in 24 hours! Today, I am finally (as I sit in the corner with my dunce cap on from not doing this sooner) saying thank you to some absolutely awesome bloggers out there that have graciously given me many awards.

Sarah over at Cottage Garden Studio has given me The Mental Duck to Mental Swan Award. This is a personal gift from one amazing lady who I quilt with every Monday via the internet. Her blog is thought provoking and I've watched her artwork grow, her photography blossom and her "thinks" bring me to a whole new level. A blog that you will come back to every day and be inspired and comforted by an excellent read. Sarah...I can't thank you enough for this very special honor!

Now for these other pretty awards (still sitting in the corner with that dunce cap on), I am going to link you to some totally awesome blogs that I have been so remiss in not saying thank you to for ages!! Part of the reason is I sometimes feel like saying the old Waynes World saying "We're Not Worthy". If I have left someone out, I truly apologize...I am way over the hill and the gray cells can remember ages ago, but not a month ago! My mother always told me to accept a compliment graciously and so I will say thank you to:

Aging Lite - Anne is a gerontologist who loves to help women attain health and balance in their lives. You will certainly enjoy the visit!

Stage 3! Who Me? - Audrey is awesome...how's that for A's? Audrey's blog is totally inspirational and totally a joy to read...A must for anyone looking to be totally (Have I used totally before?) entertained every single day she posts.

Clairedulalune - Claire will make you blurt out laughing, snorting coffee up your nose at her antics and way with words. I always read her blog with a huge smile on my face!

Thoughts by Dena - Dena will keep you laughing and guessing what the next thoughts 4 the day will be. Sometimes political, sometimes life as a Mom and most of the time plain hysterical!

Marabella Designs - This gorgeous lady, Sandra, has been leaving comments on my blog I think since day one. Fabulous jewelry designer with two stores (I have a hard time managing one!) Colibri Designs and Marabella Designs. You must check them out!

And lastly, I want to thank Deb over at the Junkin' Yaya. I was the lucky winner of her giveaway...I still can't believe I won. The box arrived, wrapped to the nines and full of the best things a Yaya girl would love. Class act all way from down on the Bayou...drop in for a howdy..you all will be in for a treat!

So a huge thank you to each and every one of you who tirelessly read this rambling rant every day and leave a comment. You have NO idea how much you are all appreciated. I'm going to pass these awards (other than my lovely Swan award) to any one that would like to grab one. YOU are the guys that deserve them!! Hope today was spectacular!

A Power Nap..

2009-07-27T11:35:00.007-05:00

It's Monday and you can tell where my brain is today. I used to think naps were for the old folks...you know, the "it's afternoon and I need to sleep before the early bird special". Remember back to those early days in grade school where the teacher made us pull out our little blue mats and take a forced nap? I hated that part of the day..it was soo boring to me. I could never sleep. We'd giggle, make faces at the teacher all the while having her "Shhh!" us. Once I got up, believe me, I was rarin' to go to recess and chase the boys in a game of tag.

Now that I'm all big and grown up..not an "early bird special" age yet, I find that I have become a consummate nap taker. Recent research is providing evidence that a well-timed afternoon nap may be the best way to combat sleepiness, improve work performance, and overcome the late day grogginess commonly known as the "midday dip." Will it make me smarter? Who knows, but I do feel in a better mood and able to learn new things. I might add..it is a very pleasurable experience! One of these lovely daybeds would certainly put me into a nice slumber, don't you think?

So my grade school teacher wasn't so bad after all. Do you take an afternoon nap to rejuvenate?

Photos from The Wondrous

Question for the Fashionistas..

2009-07-24T10:50:00.004-05:00

Question of the day for all the women that are fashionistas..

Is it possible to have fashion inspired by and about these troubled economic times?

I just couldn't resist...maybe I'm having one of those kind of Fridays! This little number puts a whole new slant on the meaning of a size 34. Go ahead, you were actually thinking about how she did that, weren't you? It's hot here, but I won't be sporting this number!

Have a fun Friday..I sure am!

I'm the CEO..

2009-07-23T10:02:00.005-05:00

You read that right...I am a CEO. Not in the terms of running a major corporation, in the term of "I'm the CEO of my life". We are all CEO's...we just don't think of ourselves as being one. We're too ingrained into thinking someone else is pulling the chains with our jobs and our life's outcome.

We have management skills, most of us have clear responsibilities in our lives and if we don't perform in some financially, we are really turned upside down. As far as the smaller things go, we have to communicate with people around us, we really need to focus on our everyday issues and motivate our employees...taking the form of husbands, children, etc.

I've never thought of myself before as a CEO or life in general as a company, but put in simple terms, I am the one that is responsible for me. I need to make the decisions that influence my life. Take charge and make things happen. Are you a CEO?

Speaking A New Language

2009-07-22T10:22:00.006-05:00

Riding a horse one day, I realized I was talking to him saying things like "stop" "come on, let's go" "get the lead out"...all the while pushing or pulling. We were getting nowhere fast..I was frustrated.

Jump to the next scene where I'm having a conversation with the DH asking him to do something. He's looking back at me with this blank stare in which I can see that nothing is sinking in.

It dawned on me that I wasn't speaking the right language. I needed to learn a new one. With animals, people call them whisperers. I could watch the horse gracefully moving in the pasture, stop on a dime..all the things I wanted. So I needed to learn to speak to him in his language..just as the whisperers do with dogs and other animals.

The same thing with the DH. My language was being blocked. BTW, this rarely happens but in this instance I was really speaking Chinese and he was hearing French! The language communication barrier was down. How many times have I gone someplace, disgruntled by a purchase or product and started to complain only to be greeted with the phrase "talk to the hand"? I've been teaching myself new languages almost everyday. No Rosetta Stone required for these languages. I think they call it common sense language. Are you learning a new language?

A Little Privacy, Please...

2009-07-20T09:31:00.004-05:00

This weekend, my husband had gone to the nearest large town which is about 60 miles away. He noticed a bunch of square bales of hay in a ditch along the highway and since we were in need of hay for the horse, he made a mental note to stop on the way back and see if the farmer was willing to sell a couple of bales so that we could see if it was to the horses liking..they can be quite picky when it comes to hay.

On the way back, he pulls into a driveway that he assumed belonged to the farmer and indeed he was right. The farmer said, "no problem, take as many as you want..you just pick them up from the ditch...if the horse likes it, I'll have quite a few of the same within the next couple of days". In my husband's euphoric state of actually finding square bales of hay, he didn't get the farmers name nor his number...argh!

So yesterday, he was going to make the return trip but no one wants to drive 60 miles and come up empty handed.

"Hon, how do I get Google Earth?"
"Just download the program..pretty easy." I had no clue why he would want Google Earth...it isn't something my husband would do on the internet.
"It's downloaded...how do I find that highway between here and the nearest town".
"Just type in our town and go backwards from there."
"Here's the farmer's house..pretty cool. Well, I can't go now, there's nobody home!"

I looked over at his computer and saw this very neat close up photo of the farm complete with little things running around in the yard...chickens. Then I got this absolutely awful feeling in my stomach. I was spying on this poor farmer and his home. I didn't like it one single bit.

I do enjoy the advances we have made in technology...I use so many of them every day..like writing a blog, twittering etc. I realized that some of them take away our total privacy. Anyone..not just our government, who I understand is going to be monitoring our mileage and gas consumption shortly as well as a plethora of other things that I am not even aware of..can view what I do. Is it just me or do you feel a lack of personal privacy?

Have a terrific Monday all!!

Because Mom Said So!

2009-07-17T10:30:00.006-05:00

I
I am sure you have all said this when your kids have asked you a question..."Because I said so!"

Several times this week, a recurring story has surfaced. The first one I read on a blog. While at a family dinner, the cooks in the kitchen were preparing a ham. One cook chops of each end of the ham and then puts it in the pan. With a quizzical look, another person asks why she did that. The response was that Grandma did that. So they go and ask Grandma why you cut the ends of a ham off. Her reply was that her Mom did it so she always did. Asking Great Gran why she cut the ends of the ham off, her reply was, "So it would fit in the pan!".

My daughter had called one day in May and was wondering if she could wear a pair of white shoes. She lives in a warmer climate and I said of course, why not? She then told me because "you said so!...YOU told me I couldn't wear white shoes before Memorial Day". I did? Then I remembered that my mom had told me this and I am sure her mother told her the same thing. I'm sure Emily Post had something to do with that thought! It certainly doesn't apply to today's times but it was something that was practiced "because Mom said so!"

These little habits hang with us for whatever reason and become a part of our daily life. So many we don't understand but we do them because our Mom said so. Little idiosyncrasies that stick with us. Are you practicing any peculiar "because mom said so!" mannerisms or habits? Why do they seem to stick with us?

Pink Infusion

2009-07-16T09:54:00.004-05:00

A short post today as we are in the studio shooting pictures for NodtoMod Vintage. Meanwhile, for those that are familiar with Etsy, I snagged my first ever treasury! A girlie type I am not, but just love pale colors...pink and gray (we could get into a discussion on the correct spelling!) seem to be the order of the day. I'm not shy, go leave comment if you will and I'll be back tomorrow! Have a superb day!!

Jack of all trades...

2009-07-15T09:55:00.009-05:00

While tweeting the other day, I got a message from a fellow twitterer (is that what we're called?) who mentioned that her father was a jack of all trades. I nodded my head in agreement as I know that is something I have often called myself. I've always added the phrase behind that statement..."and a master of none". I've gone from daughter, wife, mother, model, dressmaker, horsewoman, antique dealer and the list goes on and on.

I think we've all worn many hats in our lives and can be called a jack of all trades. It has more to do with being adaptable...changing with the demands of our lives at the moment. The Twitter lady's father clearly lived the times of the Depression era where one had to be adaptable in order to survive. The old adage if it isn't broke, don't fix it didn't hold water. You may have been doing something right, but you had to change to keep up with the times.

Back in the Depression era, jewelry makers substituted plastic stones made to mimic glass and other gemstones. This allowed women who couldn't afford the real deal to still feel beautiful and well dressed while saving money. With some of these pieces, one would be hard pressed to determine if they were real or not. The jewelry makers adapted to the times...a few examples shown of that era made of celluloid and plastic from our shop on Etsy.

With today's economic times, we all need to modify according to our changing circumstances...finding that existing harmony and starting to wear yet another hat. For me, it means that I need to bring very affordable pieces to the shop to accommodate the ever changing pocketbook. How are you adapting to the changing times?

Down for the Count!

2009-07-14T12:22:00.003-05:00

Short post today readers as I am down for the count. Since I am absent today...sometimes I wonder if I am ever present...head on over to Miss Judith B. Designs and send her some blogging love. She is having a giveaway for a beautiful necklace made just by her and why? Just because she's great and wants to say thanks to everyone! How's that for an endorsement? So what are you waiting for? Click the link and have fun!

The Written Word

2009-07-13T07:51:00.009-05:00

Sand & Lilac Flower Card from beedesigns

Bloomin' Buttons from Pacokeco

Flower Power from Shalom Everlasting

Modern Flower from Daily Sip

I told you all in the last post that I have a wonderful sister and that she is. One thing she always does is write little notes tucked in books she lends me, dropped in the basket of veggies she leaves on the front porch or just any time she feels like you might need a pick-me-up. Yes, she's that kind of caring person. I carry a crumpled up note with me that she wrote and whenever I'm a bit down, I pull it out and relish every word.

I remember writing and receiving letters growing up. I would go to the post office and twirl the little locks that would open the box...all jittery wondering if there might be a letter for me inside. Of course, at my young age, there weren't that many but I can tell you the ones that I did get were carefully opened and poured over again and again. The box wasn't full of bills or advertisement either. Letters from relatives, postcards from friends and other notes to read.

So in today's fast pace time with everything being done on the computer from email to twitter your 140 characters as well as taking pictures that are stored on discs, what happened to the written word? Back in the day, we used to wrap our letters up in ribbons and savored opening them to read over and over. Now..there's a delete button only to never read again.

When was the last time you sent a personal letter? I think I'll take some sage wisdom from my sister and make someone's day by writing a letter.

Have a fabulous Monday!!

Cherry Pickin'

2009-07-10T13:05:00.007-05:00

Oh how I love summer for the fresh fruit. Couple that with an incredible sister, all the better.

So what does summer fruit and a sister have in common? When I opened the door to my front porch yesterday, a whole lug of cherries was sitting there. Now if you aren't familiar with how much a lug is, try guessing around 28+ pounds. That's a lot of cherries! All these cherries were left by my sister who knows cherries happen to be my all time favorite summer fruit. She always does special things like leaving fresh veggies from her garden on the porch..even fresh eggs. Yesterday, the cherries came with a dozen farm fresh eggs and fresh cream. She knows we're cooks here so there may be an ulterior motive...do you think?

So today, all those farm fresh eggs, cream and some of the cherries went into a cherry clafoutis for her...think I'll make one for us, too. For the rest of the weekend, I'll be cherry pickin' right from the box and enjoying some summer pleasures!

Hope your weekend's terrific!

People Watching

2009-07-09T14:18:00.008-05:00

Photo from Flickr

We just returned from a several hour jaunt (3 hours drive) to the Social Security Office. Seems they have the wrong birth date for my DH..however that happened is another story. While there, I practiced one of my favorite things to do.

I'm a people watcher.

I must have inherited this pastime from my father. He was born and raised in ND so while visiting us when we lived in Miami Beach, it was pretty easy to find entertainment. He would sit in the gardens of the Bal Harbour Shops and for hours, watch the people walking by with their busy schedules. It fascinated him to no end watching the way they stood, walked, interacted when no one was looking. What about the way they talk? Were they happy, nervous? It was a great way for him to pass the time.

I realized today while waiting at the SS office, I was doing the same thing. Just watching how people interacted...not voyeurism mind you..but in a curiosity way. I guess "people watching" could be called every day reality TV...but the catch is...this is real and not staged to garner a viewing audience. I would much rather sit on a park bench watching people than tune in to a TV show where the participants are bought and paid for. Do you people watch? Do you watch reality TV?

Wednesday Wisdom

2009-07-08T09:59:00.004-05:00

Life is short!
Break the rules!
Forgive quickly!
Kiss slowly!
Love truly,
Laugh uncontrollably!
And never regret anything that made you smile!

PS..I did play in the rain & I did laugh uncontrollably...totally cathartic..
Have a great Wednesday!!

Playing in the rain...

2009-07-07T11:47:00.005-05:00

It's raining outside today. When I was little I used to go outside and play in the rain..jumping in puddles, splashing, sticking my tongue out to catch the raindrops as they fell from the sky. I haven't done this in years. What is it that when we grow up, we loose that ability to enjoy some of the simple things. Are we too busy with everyday life to stop and smell the roses every now and then? As an adult, I get wet all the time..take showers, go swimming etc. So why is it that I run for shelter once the rain starts to fall?

I think I'll play in the rain today and rejuvenate my inner child...

And the Winner is...

2009-07-06T17:53:00.005-05:00

Random.Org and I had an appointment this afternoon to pick the lucky winner of the sterling silver amethyst pendant necklace. Without further ado, number 63 was the lucky number which means....

Noble Beeyotch from Not Fashionista.It's Stylista

Congrats, Noble...all the way from India!! If you can email me your mailing info, I'll post this beauty to you pronto. A huge thank you to all who participated...we'll do another one soon!

The Lowly Comment

2009-07-06T08:25:00.006-05:00

As this weekend was a long one, I finally took some time to start to redo this blog. While doing so, I went to update and add a column for the blogs that I try to read every day. So what did I do? I went to my deleted email and clicked on the blogs that had left a comment. This started me thinking about comments and how they affect who you follow and which blogs we all read on a daily basis. Hence, the lowly comment.

I started this blog over seven months ago as a promotional tool for selling my antique jewelry. The gurus said this is what you should do and who was I to argue? I quickly found that I enjoyed doing a blog and not for promotional purposes, but just to share some of the little tidbits that passed through my brain..not promotional. The blogs I started to read were inspirational, some funny and some just for the pure joy of getting to know that person. If there was a blog I enjoyed, I'd check other blog rolls to read what they were reading. I'm a commenter most of the time...don't we all like to give our opinions now and then? Funny thing, bloggers started to comment back and I started to read many different kinds of blogs from all over the world.

So my rambling thoughts have come to this conclusion...a lowly comment leads to a form of growth within us, which is something I never expected. Just by a simple comment, I have made friends and visited many parts of the world, either through your eyes via pictures or through your words written to the vastness of the blog world. There are so many blogs out there that I haven't even found yet..pretty cool to say the least! Are there any out there you want to recommend?

PS..if I missed you in the blog roll, please don't be shy...do let me know! And remember, today at 5PM central time, I'll announce the winner of the amethyst pendant jewelry giveaway so click here and leave a lowly comment and you're good to go!

Happy Fourth of July!!

2009-07-04T07:54:00.004-05:00

The Want, Will and Hopes of the People

BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, watermelon, picnics, chippies...

For today...the day that every American celebrates their precious freedom...this forgotten document should be a must read.

Happy Fourth of July!

Eye Candy....& Random Thursday!

2009-07-02T10:19:00.010-05:00

Is this not incredible? I found the link to Tokyobling's Blog on none other than Twitter with these photos. A paper craft art project by Wataru Itou is on exhibition at Uminohotaru and is called "A Castle On The Ocean". It is complete with lights and a moving train....all made of paper...just incredible!

Yesterday was full of surprises! PurpleDaisyJewelry added us to her treasury...way to go vintage!! For you Etsy users, click on over and give some good vintage lovin' comments...it would be so cool to make a front page of vintage gold beauties. And speaking of beauties...don't forget to add a comment to the giveaway..you can enter more than once!

Enjoy the paper eye candy and for those of you heading out for an early weekend...Happy Independence Day!

Yakety, Yak..Don't talk back!

2009-07-01T08:24:00.006-05:00

Gossip is idle talk or rumour, especially about the personal or private affairs of others.

I have this image in my head of playing telephone when I was young...the game where two tin cans were linked together with a string and one person said something and who knows what was heard at the other end. We all gossip at one time or another..I know, you're blushing right now. It's the most common and oldest way of sharing facts or views. The view part is what gets all of us into trouble and where the rumor part comes in. The views are wide open to errors and speculation which can harm the person being gossiped about. Trivial drivel I like to call it.

Now here's the kicker. Did you know that studies have shown that when someone attributes positive or negative traits to someone else, the listener will often attribute those same traits to the speaker. They call it "spontaneous trait transference." While you're telling someone something negative or positive about another person, that listener is subconsciously attributing that trait on to you.

Nearly everyone gossips...it's human nature, right? People just like to talk about other people. Wouldn't it be better to say something good or wait till you hear it from "the horse's mouth" as the saying goes? I know...easier said than done. Be careful of the statements you make - they might bounce back and stick to you!

And another one bites the dust!

2009-06-30T14:50:00.004-05:00

Jun Murakoshi Design Candle

At my age, a single candle will do. This one would definitely be on the order list! Enjoy the day and don't forget to enter the giveaway...you'll get tired of me reminding you! And a very special thank you for those that have given it a special shout out...an amazing birthday present. Thank you!