Quiet Tree Cottage

How About This Up-do?

2011-09-20T10:43:00.000-04:00

Made of Up-cycled/ Re-cycled materials

Check these out at

Updoozy.ETSY.com

Fun and Funky!

Sweet and Unique!

Gibson Guitar to Uncle Sam – “From my cold, dead hands”

2011-09-01T12:50:00.000-04:00

Gibson Guitar to Uncle Sam – “From my cold, dead hands”

Downtown

2011-08-25T21:49:00.000-04:00

So Downtown is where it's at.

It's where Robin Alexander's is.

It's where WaterStone Pizza is.

Craddock Hotel with it's wonderful restaurant........OK so I love to eat. I guess that's why I'm on Weight Watcher's now. Not so bad. Pretty much a great program. I just have never had to lose weight before in my life. It's tough. My admiration to you gals who have lost so much poundage. You are some great women.

Ok, back to Downtown.

Had some fun photographing my niece. I'm not a photographer, I just have an overpriced camera but I sure do love it!

Oh to be young and thin again. Young----impossible. Thin-----maybe!!!

Fondly,

Kathy

Hand Beaded Starfish Ring Bearer Pillow

2011-08-17T12:05:00.000-04:00

LeliaMae.Etsy.com

I'm ready for a Beach Wedding!!

Don't Forget the Ringbearer!

2011-08-15T10:25:00.000-04:00

LeliaMae.ETSY.com

U.S. soldier, Andrew Olmsted's last blog post

2011-07-02T10:03:00.000-04:00

U.S. soldier, Andrew Olmsted's last blog post

Burlap Love

2011-06-29T16:31:00.000-04:00

Burlap Diva Pillow

Burlap Wedding Banner

Burlap Beautiful

Nautical Beach Theme Wedding

2011-06-23T22:41:00.000-04:00

Nautical....Beach.....Starfish..........Coastal.........Low Country.............Burlap.........Lace

WEDDINGS!!!!!!

LIFE'S LITTLE INSTRUCTIONS

2011-04-05T19:29:00.000-04:00

LIFE'S LITTLE INSTRUCTIONS

Sing in the shower.
Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
Watch a sunrise at least once a year.
Leave the toilet seat in the down position.
NEVER REFUSE HOMEMADE BROWNIES.
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Plant a tree on your birthday.
Learn 3 clean jokes.
Return borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
Compliment 3 people every day.
Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures.
Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
Floss your teeth.
Ask for a raise when you think you've earned it.
Overtip breakfast waitresses.
Be forgiving of yourself and others.
Say, "Thank you" a lot.
Say, "Please" a lot.
Avoid negative people.
Buy whatever kids are selling on card tables in their front yards.
Wear polished shoes.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Commit yourself to constant improvement.
Carry jumper cables in your truck.
Have a firm handshake.
Send lots of Valentine cards.
Sign them, "Someone who thinks you're terrific."
Look people in the eye.
Be the first to say hello.
Use the good silver.
Return all things you borrow.
Make new friends, but cherish the old ones.
Keep a few secrets.
Sing in a choir.
Plant flowers every spring.
Have a dog.
Always accept an outstretched hand.
Stop blaming others.
Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Wave at kids on school busses.
Be there when people need you.
Feed a stranger's expired parking meter.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Never underestimate the power of love.
Drink champagne for no reason at all.
Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation.
Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake."
Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know."
Compliment even small improvements.
Keep your promises no matter what.
Marry for love.
Rekindle old friendships.
Count your blessings.
Call your mother.

by H. Jackson Brown Jr.

Monogrammed Burlap Wedding

2011-01-31T12:03:00.000-05:00

Monogrammed Burlap

For weddings, anniversaries, gifts....

100 WAYS

2011-01-17T16:43:00.000-05:00

It's almost like I won a giveaway!!!

I am sooooo excited to soon be getting this blue dress by Hayley Star.

I love the Today show and rarely do I miss it. This dress was being offered for $59.99 on Steals and Deals. I thought it looked like a great deal. The dress looks so versatile. I can't wait to get it. I'll try to post some pictures of it. I will probably us my niece to live model it. I'm sure she will look "gorg" in it!

It can be worn over 100 ways.

She is still offering it at half-price for a period of time.

Love, love, love the blue.

KATHY

Burlap Totes

2011-01-12T17:28:00.000-05:00

OKay....now I'm loving making totes. Burlap, of course. I have tons of ideas going 'round and 'round in my head. I think I may even convert to using them as a market tote myself. I get so tired of my groceries rolling around in the back of my car in and out of those plastic bags.

So for now, this is what I'm doing.

"What I'm doing" is always subject to change whenever I see something else interesting to try.

As far as cooking, I think I'll try the Lazy Lasagna that Rachel Ray did today. Looked yummy.

Here are some of the totes that I have done and of course, they are FOR SALE in my ETSY shop.

How about a "lil southern Magnolia accent?

....Or a ragamuffin rose?

This one has a surprise inside.

A special note of your choice.

Kathy

Design Your Own Fabric

2010-12-15T15:16:00.001-05:00

Oh WOW! If you saw Martha Stewart today then you know about Spoonflower. How amazing is having your own custom printed fabric design! I am a sewer so it REALLY excited me. My stash of fabric grows and grows. Their website is so neat. They also have a blog.

Kathlyn, you should have your doodles printed.

You start by creating a design. A digital photograph, scanned artwork, or computer graphic design that is in digital format.

Then you upload to Spoonflower.

Choose your fabric , the size and layout.

Then you check out.

There are some free design tools referred to on their site for you to use.

There is no minimum required and they offer several types of fabric. You can also offer your designs for sale on their site.

Wouldn't it be cute to use your child's artwork for a design.

Kathy

Some Lovely Lilly For A Cause

2010-10-13T09:25:00.001-04:00

Lilly Pulitzer is contributing approximately $5 from each breast cancer awareness scarf to the American Cancer Society to help save lives.

I'm loving the new additions, too!

Kathy

Yep, Me Too

2010-10-11T09:05:00.001-04:00

An old friend of mine recommended that I read this short story because I had mentioned a quote that I liked that goes like this: "There are three sides to every story; My side, Your side and The Truth"
If you've never read this I think you will find it very funny and you may be able to relate it to some personal experience of your own. It may get you to rethink or think differently about some things. Simple explanations that give more insight.

Kathy

The Black Hole

2010-10-01T13:16:00.000-04:00

Ok most people cal it a gap between the car seat but I call it the Black Hole! That space between the front seats in you car and the middle console where things disappear never to be seen EVER again!
Food, money, credit cards, earrings, ringing cell phones, small reminder notes, pens , pencils, candy, you name it.
I have recently become a QVC viewer. Imagine my delight when I saw this being featured

The Handy Dandy Original Drop Stop

I am seriously thinking about purchasing one.

Why didn't I think of THAT!

Fondly,

Kathy

A Natural

2010-09-22T08:43:00.000-04:00

I'm not a photographer but I love to take pictures!

More to come.....I Love This!
Fondly,
Kathy

What a Beauty

2010-09-20T08:42:00.001-04:00

OK, on to more fun and beautiful things. I am still soooo not over my last post topic and I have been sick with a stupid cold/flu but, yesterday I had some great fun photographing my most beautiful niece for her senior year of high school. I am dying for her to hurry up and post them on her facebook. She is doing some editing and I have been sworn to not share on facebook until she does. I think I am ok to share on my blog so here goes!

We did several vignettes so I'll be sharing for several days because I just love how they turned out and these haven't even been edited yet! Here is a peek preview of the second vignette!

This was so much fun that we are going to do it again next weekend!
Fondly,
Kathy

Anyway

2010-09-09T22:44:00.000-04:00

It has been such a discouraging week. Much to be thankful for, and I am grateful but there seems to be those situations that can bring you down so miserably. How is it that you can love, invest, laugh,care for, encourage, help, hope, cry, feed, and dream for someone. You trust them, help them in every way that you know how and after five years of total devotion to this sweet family, out of nowhere, you don't even get the courtesy of a call but an e- message. A message so meanly written that your heart aches, you cry from hurt anger and disappointment and your head spins with confusion.
The first indication of not seeing eye to eye and you are told in the most ugly, cruel, disheartening way.
After apologizing, you get more of the same in another e- message.
For the past three years I have had to deal with my first experience with betrayal and lies by someone very close to me. It has been very tough emotionally and even physically it has taken it's toll. I am a person of Christian faith but that doesn't guard me against pain and struggle. After three years of trying every means of coping it still is tough and now this. Everyday there is a need for new encouragement from somewhere, scripture, faith based books, people. I never know where the Lord is going to send me a little "push" from next. Tonight someone sent me this poem. I especially like the last verse.

Mother Teresa's Anyway Poem

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and your God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

Fondly,
Kathy

Finally

2010-09-07T15:16:00.000-04:00

I'm sure glad that's over!
After too many years of trying to decide on a new sofa for the family room I have finally made a decision. We ordered it yesterday. It's from Bassett Furniture and they are great to work with.
As you can see, I am pretty traditional. I have had my window toppers down for weeks/months? now and I'm ready to get this room back together soon. Why can't upholstered furniture last forever, especially when I liked it so much.
Too much baby time spent on it I guess. We live in our house and on our furniture. I don't have the energy or the interest in trying to keep ahead of spills and stains. Life happens....especially on the furniture. That's what it's for....right?

Here's the old one. That's the family "living" all over the furniture.

Here's the new one.

We'll see how it goes. I'm really stumped about window treatments.

Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart's desires.

Psalm 37:4

Fondly,

Kathy

Have YOU Ever

2010-09-06T08:08:00.001-04:00

Have YOU ever been "devoured"?
Do you know someone who has been?
Have you ever been guilty?

Critical judgments violate God’s will.
Has anyone ever indulged evil suspicions against you and never given you a chance to explain yourself? (1 Tim. 6:4; Ps. 15:3, 50:19-20).
Our sin is compounded if we develop the habit of receiving or circulating evil reports about others (2 Cor. 12:20; Eph. 4:31).
Believing and spreading critical judgment is “feeding on it, as carrion birds do on the worst of flesh.” That is what we are doing when we receive and circulate bad reports about others: it is like passing around rotting flesh.
So I guess the person who is guilty must really stink!
Imagine being called "The most ungodly mother" (and other things I shall share later) by someone who doesn't know how to mind her own business but is being fed rotting flesh and loves circulating it. How comical is that?

Oh well, that felt good for me this morning!
Have a fun Labor Day!

Very Fondly,
Kathy

Asheville

2010-08-12T21:27:00.000-04:00

Oh Wow I need a trip to Asheville .
If you've never been, you really need to go. Visit Biltmore and tour the winery!
Some photos from one of our visits.....

Fondly,
Kathy

More Burlap Fun

2010-08-10T23:11:00.000-04:00

Inspirational softies. Wouldn't this be a nice substitute for a get well card or gift for someone sick or in the hospital.

Burlap with more needle felting.

Throwing in this cute little ringbearer pillow before I ship it off to a new bride to be.

Fondly,

Kathy

Burlap Wedding

2010-08-04T10:14:00.000-04:00

Some new wedding decor in the shop!

Burlap votive holders.

Personalized ring bearer pillows.

Bride Groom signage.

Burlap Bowl.

Burlap Vase. (SOLD)

One of a kind pillows.

Grow Old With Me (SOLD)

Fondly, Kathy

Great Job Chelsea

2010-08-03T21:35:00.000-04:00

I am not a real Clinton fan but I loved Chelsea's dress and other attire choices for her big day. Hillary's hair looked fantabulous. It looks like it was a beautiful wedding. I am still puzzled as to what you do at a wedding reception til 5AM!!

Fondly,

Kathy

More Is Never Enough

2010-07-30T15:02:00.000-04:00

More is more, less is more, more than enough, more,more,more.

I think that More Is Never Enough when it comes to time spent at the beach!!!!!

This is our "baby". He is the only one left at home. Does he look like he is anxious to fly the coop at all?

This morning our trip was made complete! We watched them trap an alligator on the beach to relocate to another more appropriate home. Then minutes later we saw a shark on the surf just over our balcony. No one has been killed by a shark here since the 1880's. I read where alligators on the beach are "rare". A Google search showed me that a live alligator was extracted from this beach just weeks ago on June 18. Ummm.....what does "rare" mean?

Lovin' the beach,

Kathy

Sun, Sand, Fun and Sun

2010-07-29T09:05:00.003-04:00

If we look like we're having fun it's because we ARE!!!!!!

The only thing missing from this vacation is the "middle".

Our middle child and her family couldn't come with us but it is nice to have our little "stand-in" grandbaby!

She's always a lot of fun.

My nephew in the (background) came along with us and my son is the one in the front.

YUM.....Italian Ice on the beach!!!!

Photos from our balcony.

My oldest daughter and her hubby! She is a special education teacher.

Me and the Hunny!

As you can see, we still had a full house and we're having a blast!

My Hunny is not so keen on beach vacations. He likes the mountains better but he's sweet enough to take us anyway. The best part is, we get to go on a mountain getaway later, too!

Fondly,

Kathy

We Have This Moment

2010-07-25T22:16:00.002-04:00

We Have This Moment, Today

Hold tight to the sound of the music of living, Happy songs from the laughter of children at play; Hold my hand as we run through the sweet fragrant meadows, Making memories of what was today.

Tiny voice that i hear is my little girl calling for daddy to hear just what she has to say; My little son running there by the hillside may never be quite like today.

We have this moment to hold in our hands, And to touch as it slips through our fingers like sand; Yesterday's gone, and tomorrow may never come, But we have this moment today.
Tender words, gentle touch, and a good cup of coffee, And someone that loves me and wants me to stay; Hold them near while they're here, and don't wait for tomorrow, To look back and wish for today.
We have this moment to hold in our hands, And to touch as it slips through our fingers like sand; Yesterday's gone, and tomorrow may never come, But we have this moment today.
Fondly, Kathy

I "Luv" Coffee

2010-07-21T21:22:00.000-04:00

Have I mentioned how much I love coffee?

Fondly, Kathy

Your Rustic Wedding

2010-07-20T12:55:00.001-04:00

Living in the country is "The Life".

Getting married in the country can be beautiful and fun.

I have the perfect rustic Bride and Groom signage and ring pillow for the ceremony in my ETSY shoppe.

Burlap personalized with needle felting!

Available in ANY colors!

I sure hope that it cools down for the rest of the outdoor wedding season. Supposed to be 97 degrees here this Saturday.

Fondly, Kathy

Oh What Fun We Had!

2010-07-17T20:55:00.000-04:00

A visit to Alabama to see my daughter and grandson!

Bye Bye Caleb!!!!!

Fondly,

Kathy

Twenty Seven Years Ago

2010-06-18T08:02:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! I love you.

Sorry for the rest of ya'll but I got the best Mamma!

The sweetest kids ever and still are! She is married and has three children of her own but we still gotta find a girl for my ringbearer. He is a great catch.

I'm the "big sister". How about my blonde little sister? How did that happen? She's still "blonde" even at

40-something.

And little brother graduated his oldest from high school this month. Very hard to believe.

Mamma made my dress, headpiece, veil......the "whole nine yards". Thanks mamma!

Wonder why I can't get her to make me anything anymore?

I tried to get my girls to wear my dress for their weddings....no such luck. I even offered to let them "remake" it into something they liked. They just laughed!

What's that all about?

Happy anniversary to US!

Fondly, Kathy

Hey Folks It's Flag Day!

2010-06-14T14:33:00.000-04:00

We're Celebrating Flag Day.

How about you?

Happy Flag Day!

Fondly, Kathy

2010-06-11T21:45:00.001-04:00

Two Little Feet

2010-06-03T09:18:00.000-04:00

Two Little Feet

Two little feet, ten little toes,
Leave their impressions today.
Soon they will wear two little shoes,
And be running and jumping at play.
Two little feet, too little time,
Before they are walking to school,
Kicking a rock, or skipping a rope,
Wading a puddle or jumping a pool.
Two little feet, One little child,
Will soon go their own way,
But footprints in my mind recall,
They stood here yesterday.

Do You Know April?

2010-05-29T19:03:00.001-04:00

I love April Cornell

Fondly,

Kathy

A New Dress

2010-05-25T21:11:00.002-04:00

I used to sew and sew and sew. Not so much anymore so I decided to make me a dress . I love the comfortable knit dresses that are in stores now. So that's what I made.

If I ever buy another piece of jersey knit, please shoot me!!!!

It is so slippery, tricky, and curly. I wanted to scream!!

I think I did once or twice. Fortunately, in the end, I really like the dress and it fits me well.

Didn't have to trash this one!

Fondly,

Kathy

In Honor of Graduation

2010-05-24T11:29:00.000-04:00

One of my Facebook friends had an idea for all of us to make our profile pictures our graduation portraits in honor of graduation this year.

Well I decided to blog it too.

I would love to see more retro/yesteryear graduation pictures.

Me. Circa. 1979

My sister circa. 1982

Happy Graduation!

Fondly,

kathy

Interesting Sunday

2010-05-23T15:03:00.000-04:00

Another Sunday at the Grans.

Cam looked a lot different last week. She decided to try her hand at hairstyling.

And this is the end result. I think it looks soo cute..

She's wearing one of my girl's smocked dresses that my mother made about 20+ years ago.

And....SURPRISE, SURPRISE, SURPRISE.

We met Nichole's (my niece) boyfriend and they're engaged!!!!

So cute!!!!

These Sunday, after church dinners are getting more and more interesting and summer has only begun!

Fondly,

Kathy

Mother's Day Pictures

2010-05-18T17:39:00.001-04:00

A Few Pictures From Mother's Day

Me, my sister and our mother.

Us with our brother included this time.

Us, plus my brother, plus my daddy.

My oldest daughter.

My son and daughter.

My brother and his family.

My sister and her family.

Kathy

2010-05-06T14:08:00.000-04:00

I am sooooo excited! I was featured on the ETSY Front Page.

Thanks so much to KnotOriginal for choosing me for her treasury and to Nichole at PixelBerryCreative for being so kind as to send me the page and telling me that I was there!

The weather has been like summertime here for several days. Feels so good. Mother's day is Sunday and we will be having lunch for my mother here. Fried Chicken and all the fixins'.

Ciao Bella!!

Fondly,

Kathy

Prom Season

2010-05-02T16:16:00.000-04:00

Looks fun!

Kathy

More, How To Deal

2010-04-29T08:07:00.002-04:00

How can we, if we are disciples of Jesus, talk about our anger and bad feelings toward those who have wronged us without cause?

Because Psalm 35 is in the Bible, that’s why. Psalm 35 is one of what are called the imprecatory psalms. Imprecatory means calling down God’s justice. The psalms are the tools God gives us to help us talk to Him. We know the Psalms for when we’re happy. We know the Psalms when we’re thankful. Some of the Psalms teach us what to do when we’re angry with God and some teach us what to do when we’re angry at someone else. When they’ve done us wrong. When they’ve hurt us. These Psalms teach us to be angry, but they teach us to take that anger to God.

At the same time, here’s Psalm 35. And when we bring loving our enemies together with the call for justice, then we are being holy.

So, while we’re loving our enemies, we pray verse 1: Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. Turn the matter over to God. Put the problem in His hands. Let Him bring the justice. Let Him pay back the wrong. There is real hurt, and the real hurt is being turned over to God. Verse 4 is the request being made of God, and verse 4 is not nice: May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the LORD driving them away; they hurt us, so let them be hurt. This is ultimately about God. This is about how strong God is, and how much He cares for His people. This about God’s sense of justice, about His sense of fairness, whether evil should be .You didn’t bring this on yourself. In fact, you treated them kindly. You wanted the best for them. You prayed for them. You helped them when they needed help. And what do they do? Verse 15: But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware. They slandered me without ceasing. These attacks come from a lot of different places, some from friends. They roll their eyes at our values. They involve themselves in our family, wounding relationships So what do we do with the hurt? Do we just grin and bear it? Shove it way down inside and hope for the hurt to go away? Of course not. We talk to God about it. Psalm 35, and the other psalms like it, teach us how to talk to God. This is real hurt, and we can talk about it in real terms. . Psalm 35 recognizes this. But Psalm 35 doesn’t leave us there. Psalm 35 doesn’t just tell us how to feel, what attitude to take. Psalm 35 shows us what to do when we’re being attacked. We have a God who is angry at the hurt. And once we see this, once the hurt doesn’t hurt as much, once the fear starts to come down, we’ll see God working. He wants to do the work for us so that we will give him the credit and praise. take that anger to God.

We have been hurt, wrong has been done. But God knows this, and He will do something about it. We all know as parents how much we want to help our children when they’ve been hurt by others. Now just think of how much more God, our father, wants to help us. We should pray like David, a “man after God’s own heart”. We put it in His hands, we will see wrongs righted while we "right " ourselves.

A great resource for reconciliation and especially irreconcilable situations is this book by Ken Sande

Fondly,

Kathy

How To Deal Part 1

2010-04-28T08:39:00.000-04:00

The Lord protects those who can’t protect themselves Psalm 35. Should we love them or should we hate them? The people who treat us rotten. Should we have compassion for those who do evil to us, or should we wish bad things to happen to them? I know what comes naturally, to us. We are hurt by someone, and we want them to pay. We might not go so far to wish bad things to happen to that person, but we want justice. We want them to feel bad about what they did. It only makes sense, right? We feel bad. They should feel bad, too. Except, we don’t usually talk that way, at least in church, right? In church, we speak kindly about other people, we smile, even when we’re hurting inside. We pretend to be getting along, even when everything inside us is torn apart by that person, that person who said what they said and did what they did. How can we talk about hating other people, wanting bad things to happen to them? How can we talk about this in church of all places?
More tomorrow.
Fondly, Kathy

Logos Grams Uncle and Cousins

2010-04-15T11:58:00.000-04:00

Aren't grandma's great! Not speaking of myself ,though. I think it's great being a grandma and at this point I can only hope to be a great one. I am speaking more of my grandmas.
When I was trying to come up with a name for my ETSY shoppe I decided to name it after my two grandmas: Earlie Mae and Lelia Mae. Hence, "Lelia Mae Place". Isn't Earlie a very different name? I don't know where it came from. I really need to research it.
I had a logo done for my shoppe and I thought it was so cute that I wanted to use it for my Blog, too. So there it is in my favorite color, green and the new addition to the name of my blog.

Here I am being Grandma

Me, my son and grandson

Throw in some beautiful cousins....

His Beautiful Mommy

Here with Great Grandpa

Do you think he gets enough attention?

I'm sure he's not spoiled!

Kathy

Hey LOOK!

2010-04-08T06:07:00.000-04:00

I am so excited. I was featured in the Storque on ETSY yesterday!

Have a great day and Go On A Picnic!

Kathy

A 'lil Marriage Humor

2010-03-26T09:05:00.000-04:00

"Love is temporary insanity curable by marriage."

"I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury."

"Some people ask the secret of our long marriage. We take time to go to a restaurant two times a week. A little candlelight, dinner, soft music and dancing. She goes Tuesdays, I go Fridays."

"A married man should forget his mistakes; no use two people remembering the same thing."

"Women marry men hoping they will change. Men marry women hoping they will not. So each is inevitably disappointed."

*That's MY man in the picture*

and...YES he's really asleep!

"To love is to suffer. To avoid suffering one must not love. But then one suffers from not loving. Therefore to love is to suffer, not to love is to suffer. To suffer is to suffer. To be happy is to love. To be happy then is to suffer. But suffering makes one unhappy. Therefore, to be unhappy one must love, or love to suffer, or suffer from too much happiness. I hope you're getting this down."

Have a great weekend.

Kathy

Great Day for UP

2010-03-15T12:59:00.001-04:00

Great Day for UP
Up, Up Great Day for Up
The Sun is Up
So Up With You
Up Ear Number One
Up Ear Number Two

I miss my GREAT DAYS FOR UP with my favorite grandson!

Seeing this sweet little face in the mornings definitely makes every day a

GREAT DAY FOR UP!

Love you!

Kathy

Scenes from Last May

2010-03-12T16:16:00.001-05:00

This baby's breath head wreath was so easy to make. I thought it looked so cute on her! It must have been pretty comfy. She didn't take it off. And this little gal never keeps a hair band or barrette in.

This is the mother of the groom holding one of the bridesmaids bouquets. The bouquet holders are made by the Wilton Company. They were easy too make too.

Pomanders were an easy addition outside with hanging petunias also.

The Junior Bridesmaid carried a white rose pomander accented with a beaded handle and ribbons.

The flower girl basket was from Michaels but I had to remove the multicolored beads that were attached and replace with pearls. That took a little longer than I expected and then I had to file smooth all the wires that I had clipped in order to replace the beads because the were so rough and jagged (another one of those unexpected time consumers).

Is this the cutest little ring bearer you have ever seen? I just love mouton suits!

Here he is playing with his silver yo-yo my daughter gave him.

Just dreaming of springtime.......

Not too far away now. I saw forsythia blooming today!! YEAH!

Kathy

More DIY Wedding Photos

2010-03-04T17:08:00.000-05:00

Use "whatcha got".

These were taken in our hayfield that wildflowers grow naturally in every year.

Morning or late afternoon are better times to take photos or an overcast day is great also.

Include your pets. This photo is even more special because we were not aware at the time but sweet Jackie had cancer when we took this photo and we lost her only months later.

These were taken on the lane that leads to our house.

My son-in-law was a better sport about my photo obsession than my daughter. She required a bit more coaxing. Thanks Phil!

Fondly,

Kathy

Happy Unwedding Day Pictures by Mom

2010-02-23T21:08:00.000-05:00

It's not too late to get the shots your photographer didn't.

Fondly,

Kathy

Time Worn

2010-02-18T12:55:00.001-05:00

Found in my ETSY shop

Fondly,

Kathy

2010-02-18T09:34:00.004-05:00

Silhouettes

2010-02-11T16:50:00.000-05:00

For many, many years I have admired professional silhouettes and the people who do them. In 1994 there was a lady who came to our local Belk Department store doing silhouettes. My children were ages 4, 8, and 9 years old. Money was very tight then but I just HAD to have my children's silhouettes done. Soooo I did it and have never regretted it. I have enjoyed them so much through out the years.
I finally "googled" the name of the lady who did them so long ago and found she has a website! Her address and number is different now but she still does them!

I think she captured their expression really well and all free-handed. When she applies them to the background they have a three dimensional appearance. It was amazing to watch.

Fondly,

Kathy

Cabin Fever Creations

2010-02-08T15:04:00.000-05:00

It is so beautiful here with the snow and ice still in the tree tops and the sun sparkling through. I had to take a few pics. The roads are great so it's nice to get out and about. Tomorrow we are to expect more of the same!! Snow and ice. Up to four inches! Sheeesh! Plus, they're hinting about a 'lil somthin' somthin' weatherwise again this weekend.

Yesterday I fiddled around a little bit with my needle felting machine and came up with a couple fru-fru brooches. Silk shantung, organza, faux pearls, rhinestone, buttons, silk ribbon, organza ribbon...a real hodge podge.

And a few home decor things from a few days ago.

These can all be found in my ETSY shop

Kathy

Snowmaggedon!

2010-02-06T14:24:00.001-05:00

Yep, that's what it looks like. Take a look see..........

And here we sit with no electricity because of the ice and wind that tagged along with the snow.

Kathy

Fun with Editing

2010-02-05T10:41:00.000-05:00

Here are a few photos from yesterday that I edited just for fun.
I cannot believe that we are going to have at least 12 more inches of snow today and tomorrow mixed with ice. Of course, it will be on top of the snow left over from last weekend.! Right now it is just beautiful falling. I think I might need to feed the birds around here.

Kathy

Take Lots of Pictures

2010-02-04T16:16:00.001-05:00

I love to take pictures. When my daughter got married last spring I took as many as I could. There are so many photography ideas on the wedding blogs. Give your wedding photographer a list of and copies of specific pictures /poses/ groupings of folks that you would like included. I have found that the photographers who like "photojournalism" sometimes forget about the standard, traditional posed photos. You know, the ones of family groupings (aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers, etc.) with the bride and groom on the wedding day.
And why not take pictures with your own or a borrowed camera after the wedding? Who says you can't take pictures afterwards?
My daughter had the traditional formal studio portraits done because I wanted her too but I also took lots of pictures after the wedding of her and her hubby. You can do so much with programs like photoscape and picasa and your personal digital camera.
Here are a few of mine.

Stand on a step stool for those overhead shots.

Just because you're not a professional photographer doesn't mean you can't take really good pictures and do really creative altering with free editing programs.

Fondly,

Kathy

Here We SNOW Again

2010-01-30T12:02:00.002-05:00

Another beautiful snowy weekend. I say beautiful because I don't have to shovel. I have two manly men (husband and 20 yr old son) who take care of all those manly jobs.

How does this sound for a snowy day lunch. This is what I'm fixin'

Zuppa Toscana

1lb ground Italian sausage
1 onion, choppped
2 large cooking potatoes, sliced in halves then in 1/4 in slices
2 cans chicken broth
1 qt. water
2 cloves garlic, minced (i used 2 tbsp garlic from the fridge)
1/2 jar bacon bits (or real bacon)
2 cups kale or swiss chard, chopped
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions:

cook sausage, drain on paper towels

place onions, potatoes, chicken broth, water, and garlic in pot. cook on medium heat until potatoes are done.

add sausage and bacon bits, salt and pepper to taste. simmer for 10 minutes.

turn heat to low. add kale and cream.

heat through and serve.

Happy Weekend to all. I guess I'm stuck inside.

Fondly,

Kathy

My Niece on America's Funniest Videos

2010-01-29T08:11:00.001-05:00

Remember this post about my niece submitting a VIDEO to America's Funniest Videos?

WELL!!!! SHE MADE IT!!!!!!!!!!

My niece is going to be on America's funniest videos this Sunday night!!!!!!!!!!!
She and her friend were jumping around in her room when my niece flipped onto her bed and "un-be-knownst" to her, HER FANNY WENT RIGHT THROUGH THE WALL!!!
Needless to say, since her daddy worked very hard building their house, he wasn't very happy at the time. Now I guess he can at least get some enjoyment out of it.

Way to go NOELLE!!!
Can't wait til Sunday.
Kathy

My Vintage Coats

2010-01-27T13:51:00.001-05:00

I think I have mentioned before (HERE) how I love vintage coats and kinda collect them.
I took pictures of a few of them to share.

Have a great day!

Fondly,
Kathy

Double Take

2010-01-21T08:44:00.002-05:00

I am always thinking of how I can reuse or repurpose whenever I need something. At Christmas I reused the wreaths from the wedding to decorate the fireplace/mantle.
I used the small wreaths in these pictures.......

I sprayed a light coat of matte white spray paint followed by some spray snow, you know the aerosol can of fake snow that you can find at any craft store especially during the Christmas season and this is what I came up with. You might remember these from my previously posted Christmas pictures. I was reallly happy with the results.

I love low cost/no cost stuff!

BTWthe glowing lights are stemware I bought years ago from the dollar store with tealight candles inside and if you look closely you will notice the green birds on the mantle leftover from the wedding also. The pinecones and greenery were free outside!

Fondly,

Kathy

Appomattox My Town

2010-01-20T08:24:00.001-05:00

My husband and I were born here, schooled here, married here and still live here. I am sorry to say that my town has made news in a very sad way. It started yesterday and ended just minutes ago. Please pray for those involved in this heinous situation. It has been shocking, to say the least, for our sleepy little town. You can read the news reports HERE.

Fondly,

Kathy

DIY Wedding Wreaths

2010-01-18T11:13:00.002-05:00

Last year I was very busy stretching my not so fit creative muscles to their limit on saving money on my daughter's wedding trying to do just about everything myself (except the reception food).
I spent hours on the internet, in the book store and in the craft store. Just about everything came from Michael's using 40-50% coupons. I used some other online stores that I will share as I try to blog about the projects I did for the wedding. My daughter loves boxwood so we made boxwood wreaths accented with baby's breath.
It is so easy to do. You use a grapevine wreath for your base and just insert sprigs of boxwood around continuing in the same direction all the way around. You can do the entire wreath or just the front. You can dip each sprig in bit of hot glue before inserting but I found ours to hold up just as well without the glue. Best part of all these can be done ahead of time.

I made sashes from silk shantung to hang them. Much cheaper than trying to find ribbon that wide.

The birds , I LOVE, came from Michaels. They carry them in the most beautiful colors. I see where they have stocked new ones for this spring and they are fantabulous.

Our wedding was a theme of green toile, antique silver, white roses and baby's breath. I guess you would consider it monochromatic.

The guys were "Rockin' the Socks" . A fun detail, don't ya think?

All of the flowers came from Samsclub.com online bulk floral.

Brides and bridesmaids dresses from David's Bridal.

More about the wedding wands later....

Fondly,

Kathy

Hearts and Birds

2010-01-14T15:33:00.000-05:00

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway. Mother Teresa

Fondly,

Kathy

What to Do for Boys?

2010-01-13T14:19:00.000-05:00

For me, boys are a real challenge when it comes to needlework and trying not to be too girly.
Tried some wall art with my needle felter.

It's finally going to warm up here tomorrow and I am so ready for it.

Fondly,

Kathy

A Little Practice Run

2010-01-09T13:41:00.001-05:00

Having some fun with my embellishing machine. Here's an upcycled, previously plain child's size 3yr Gap dress embellished and ready for Valentine's day.

Another thrift store find (lambs wool and angora sweater) with a little upgrade. Needle felted satin ribbon applied. It looks so feminine and dainty now....don't you think? Oh this is so much fun!

Just a little more around the neck......

Fondly,
Kathy

Cold Weather Crystal Fun

2010-01-09T06:51:00.003-05:00

You and the kids can actually grow a coral-like crystal garden.

Here’s how to make these wispy wonders, which will begin growing in your dish within minutes after you pour the "recipe" over their growing medium. And the growing medium (and first ingredient) is a broken brick, pieces of charcoal or broken pieces of clay like a flowerpot ( it needs to be porous rock). Artistically arrange these pieces in a deep-sided, aluminum pie pan.

Next, mix—in the following order—four tablespoons of plain (NOT iodized) salt, four tablespoons of liquid bluing (available at any full-service grocery store usually on the laundry supply aisle), four tablespoons of water, and one tablespoon of ammonia. (WARNING: Ammonia can be harmful, and so this mixing should be done by an adult or with adult supervision.)
Next, stir the mixture until the salt dissolves, and pour it evenly over the shards of brick. Then take food coloring and put just a few drops of different colors onto the brick pieces. Now all you’ve got to do is wait—and watch if you like—as in a matter of hours the mix starts growing in brightly colored clumps of wispy coral. Be careful with the dish and the crystal garden can literally last for weeks (maybe even until the weather takes a turn for the warmer).

To sneak in a little Chemistry lesson go HERE for a little explanation of "how it works".

Just thought you might like a little indoor thingy to do with the kids since it's so cold. Let me know if your experiment works.

Fondly,

Kathy

My New Toy

2010-01-05T19:31:00.003-05:00

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Creativity is important and even biblical! Not to mention fun. Just look around and imagine how much fun God must have been having in Genesis.
OK I'm just a little too excited about my new toy.
Here is a sampling of some of my creating. I have been doing these by hand "pounce by pounce by pouncey pounce" with a hand needle like this.
"Ouch" my wrist.

I am so excited about the BabyLock needlefelter and embellisher that I bought for myself yesterday.

It does all the needling for me. I've been playing with it and practicing but tomorrow i'm going to start a real project. Can't wait. I'll share a picture if it comes out well.

Fondly,

Kathy

High On The "YUM" Meter

2010-01-01T19:56:00.002-05:00

I highly recommend this recipe. An old, old recipe and it is delicious!

Dried Plum (Prune) Cake

· 1 cup Prunes

· 3 whole Eggs

· 1 cup Canola Oil (I used 1/2 cup Canola Oil + 1/2 cup Applesauce)

· 1-½ cup Flour, Sifted

· 1 teaspoon Baking Soda

· 1 teaspoon Nutmeg

· 1 teaspoon Allspice

· 1 teaspoon Cinnamon

· 1 cup Buttermilk (I used 2 percent milk with 1 T vinegar Stir and - let sit for 5 minutes)

· 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

· ICING INGREDIENTS:

· 1 cup Sugar

· ½ cups Buttermilk (I used 2 percent milk with 1/2 T vinegar Stir and let sit for 5 minutes)

· ½ teaspoons Baking Soda

· 1 Tablespoon White Corn Syrup

· ¼ cups Butter

· ½ teaspoons Vanilla

Preparation Instructions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

Cover prunes with water. Bring to a boil and cook until soft and mashable, about eight minutes. Remove from heat, drain water, and mash on a plate. Set aside.

Mix together oil, sugar, and eggs. In a separate bowl, sift together dry ingredients. Combine wet and dry ingredients, add buttermilk and vanilla and stir gently until just combined. Throw in the mashed prunes and stir gently to combine.

Pour batter into buttered baking dish (9 x 13) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes.

Make the icing:
Combine all icing ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat and bring to a slow boil. Boil without stirring for 5 to 7 minutes. Do NOT allow icing to reach soft ball stage; icing should be caramel in color, but not sticky like caramel. Icing should be easily pourable.

Remove cake from oven when finished baking and pour on icing immediately.
Allow to rest. Serve warm.

Just in case you were wondering. There is positively no “prune effect” associated with this cake.

Fondly,

Kathy

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T07:48:00.002-05:00

My Girl got here safe and sound. They didn't get stuck until the last 1/2 mile which was in our driveway. My cousin had to go back home to Ohio because West Virginia was completely impassable. They will try it again Tuesday. I hope that they get here because he is my auntie's only child. Makes for a dull lonely Christmas without your only child and grandchildren.

Hope everyone is enjoying celebrating Our Saviour's Birth! I'm just waiting now for everyone to wake up. Everyone is here including my oldest daughter who married in May and lives only 20 miles away but she wanted to see her nephew first thing on his first Christmas morning. He husband is here too. That little boy will never lack for any love or attention as long as they are alive. They're crazy about him! of course we all are.

Merry Christmas

Fondly,

Kathy

"Historic Proportions"

2009-12-19T09:08:00.001-05:00

They are calling it a storm of HISTORIC proportions!

Yes, I live right in the middle of that snowstorm hovering over the eastern US.

My daughter, son-in-law and grandson are stranded south of here in North Carolina. They were on their way from Alabama last night. At least they're in a hotel.

I have a cousin stuck in a parking lot in Charleston WV enroute with his family from Ohio. No one has heard from them since midnight. I just took these pictures and we're only half way into this monster storm.

White Christmas is a reality this year! Very exciting but also praying everyone stays safe.

Merry Christmas!
Fondly,
Kathy

I Wish, I Wish

2009-12-15T11:20:00.000-05:00

I wish , I wish, that I felt like this...........

But I don't...

I FEEL like THIS...............

What kind of gift do you give 80 somethings who have everything?

Merry Christmas,

Kathy

Woodland Chic

2009-12-11T20:54:00.002-05:00

Fondly,

Kathy

Paper Pretties

2009-12-10T08:03:00.000-05:00

Visit

Small Meadow Press

Fondly,

Kathy

Can't Wait

2009-12-09T08:21:00.004-05:00

This year we have a "first" for Christmas. Our first grandchild. Of course he needs a "First Christmas" ornament. I got this one at the craft fair I went to last week. My daughter and her husband don't live locally so they will be staying with us for Christmas and we can't wait!
Pewter is sort of a Virginia tradition, so much colonial history here.
I thought it would be very appropriate.

Here's why I just can't wait!

Fondly,

Kathy

Nativity

2009-12-08T08:46:00.001-05:00

Here's my little girl who is obsessed with the nativity. Last night we took her to see a live nativity. I had never been to one and it was great. Our church put it on in the town square with live music telling the Christmas story, real donkeys, live sheep, a goose, rooster and a beautiful hen. Baby girl got to see the animals up-close and personal and she got to sit on the donkey because the donkeys belong to her Sunday School teacher . She was thrilled and entranced.

It was sooo cold out. They served hot chocolate WITH whipped cream if you wanted. Baby girl is only 4 but she can tell you anything you want to know about the nativity.
So Sweet. She skipped school yesterday and spent the day with me. We had a great day!

Fondly,

Kathy

Wintry White

2009-12-04T06:56:00.002-05:00

Christmas accents I really like. They look so frosty and wintry. The natural elements add warmth.

We're expecting some wintry mix weather Saturday. I can't wait!

Enjoying the season!

Fondly,

Kathy

What God Wants For Christmas

2009-12-02T10:01:00.003-05:00

Last year I bought this unusual interactive nativity for my sweet little "granddaughter".
She is four years old and has always been fascinated with the nativity story.
She uses anything she gets her hands on, from a sweater to a napkin, to put over her head to play Mary and recruits anyone and everyone else in the room to fill in the other parts (human and animal).
This goes on until at least March.

"What God Wants For Christmas" is available at Christian bookstores or you can order online through their

website.

This kid-friendly, interactive nativity - with seven gift boxes, a colorful pop-up, and an illustrated poem - contains a surprise ending that will open a child’s heart to Jesus. Use this hands-on lesson in Sunday schools, outreach events, or family devotions, over multiple days or all at once. It’s simple, easy to use, and fun for all ages! Share the good news this Christmas season with those who need to hear!

You open each box to reveal parts of the nativity leaving a seventh box with a mirror inside to say what God wants for Christmas is YOU!

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Merry Christmas,
Kathy

Bizarre Bazaar

2009-12-01T08:14:00.002-05:00

This is where I'm going this weekend. It's always great. So many great crafts and crafters. They have a show in the Spring and one at Christmas.

I look forward to going every year. I think I like the spring show the best. Maybe because I'm partial to springtime. Hubby is so sweet to take me, tag-along and patiently appear interested in everything there.
Hopefully I can find something for my sweet little grandson for his first Christmas!

THE BIZARRE BAZAAR

Fondly (and excitedly),

Kathy

Pretty Things

2009-11-29T07:44:00.002-05:00

I spend far too much time perusing the internet looking at beauties like these.

Have a good Sunday.

Fondly,

Kathy

Wool, Felt, Toile

2009-11-27T08:53:00.001-05:00

I have done a lot of different crafting with lot s of different media. Right now I am loving working with wool roving. I haven't tried 3-D needle felting (making free standing needle felted shapes) . I have mostly been doing needle felting on fabric. here are a few of the things I've done.

Toile pillow with needle felted "W"

Burlap table runner.

Fondly,

Kathy

Just a Peek

2009-11-25T08:13:00.003-05:00

Thought I would just post a picture or two from Saturday's wedding. It was a beautiful day and a beautiful ceremony.

Here's the Bride.

And Her Maids.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Fondly,

Kathy

Terrific Giveaway

2009-11-23T07:36:00.001-05:00

I found TWO great new sites.

One is hosting a giveaway and the other tells you about tons of giveaways that you can enter!

Hurry up and visit.

I love the current necktie giveaway and their website. GREAT idea. Father/son matching ties. GREAT resource for matching/coordinating groomsmen ties too!

Love it , Love it.

My Favorite Pal

http://www.myfavoritepal.com/

Visit Todaysgiveaway.net to enter this and other great giveaways!

Have fun!

Fondly,

Kathy