VintageSouthernLife

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

(picture credit -vintagerosegarden.tumbler.com)

I'm not one for making a lot of New Year's resolutions . . . mainly because I find I don't keep them.

However, I have decided to make one.

In 2012, when life starts to get hectic and the stress level starts to build I plan to give my

problems and stresses to He that is in me and can carry my burdens for me.

I'm trusting 2012 is going to be a great year and wishing a Happy New Year to

all of my blogging friends!

Do you have any New Year resolutions?

Come join me at Blue Monday

My favorite projects of 2011

2011-12-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

Looking back over 2011 there have been good times and there have been bad times. I have been away from blogging caring for my mom. Fortunately the new med is helping and a part-time care giver is freeing up a little bit of time for me. Thanks for your cards, e-mails,calls and prayers. You are all so special to me.

This Goodwill redo added a little pop of color to the condo entry way. Complete instructions and photos here

I had such fun with this Pottery Barn knock off project for my grandson. It's a functional child size picnic table that promises lots of fun. I added a pirate flag to the ship and we were ready to set sail.I followed the instructions from Anna White's knock off blog and it was so easy. Details are here

This little table and mirror was a brassy thrift store find. .. a little Metallic Rustoleum and it gave it a new life.
It has been fun looking back over 2011. I hope yours was a good one and that 2012 will be even better. Please join me at the 2011 Top Project party over at Southern Hospitality

Thanks for coming and ya'll come back!

Had to resort to talking to the sea gulls. . .

2011-10-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

My blog was hacked into and it has been a royal pain getting it back up and running. I have missed all of you blogging friends so much. What did I ever do before blogging?

I can't wait to visit and see what all of you have been up to.

The gulls aren't much when it comes to conversation. When the bread runs out they just look at me really bored and fly away.

Going to catch up on my blog reading... have a great week. It is so good to be back :)

Blue Monday

2011-09-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

Nothing more relaxing or prettier than the blue of the Atlantic Ocean!

I'm joining Blue Monday with Smiling Sally

HAVE A HAPPY LABOR DAY!

Sunday Reflections

2011-09-03T09:23:00.000-07:00

A Little Boy's Explanation of God -- Fabulous!!! -

I certainly don't think an adult could explain this more beautifully!

It was written by an 8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula Vista , CA . He wrote it for his third grade homework assignment, to 'explain God.' I wonder if any of us could have done as well? (and he had such an assignment, in California , and someone published it, I guess miracles do happen!)

EXPLANATION OF GOD:

'One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die, so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to take up his valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers.'

'God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because he hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in his ears, unless he has thought of a way to turn it off.'

'God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.'

'Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista . At least there aren't any who come to our church.'

'Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him preaching to them and they crucified him. But he was good and kind, like his father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K.'

'His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.'

'You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.'

'You should always go to church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!

Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.'

'If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.'

'But...you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and he can take me back anytime he pleases.

And...that's why I believe in God.'

I received this in an e-mail from a friend and thought it was delightful! I am linking this post to
Spiritual Sundays

Talk, talk, . . talk talk talk!!!

2011-08-31T18:44:00.000-07:00

OMG!.... I was in the public restroom . I was barely sitting down when I heard a voice in the other stall. "Hi How are you?"

Me: embarassed "Doin fine!"

Stall: "So, what are you up to?"

Me: "Uhhh I'm like you just sitting here."

Stall: "Can I come over?"

Me: (attitude) "No, I'm a little busy right now!!"

Stall: "Listen, I'll have to call you back. There's an idiot in the other stall who keeps answering all of my questions!"

I received this in an e-mail from a friend and it had me laughing out loud. I could so see this happening to me!

It got me to thinking. Have you noticed how phones have invaded every avenue of our lives?

I will be the first to admit... I do not leave the house without my phone but I wonder... have we gone too far? I do sometimes turn mine off making myself go into exile and it is such a

freeing feeling. What do you think? Could you give up your phones?

Linking to Jenny Matlock's Alphabe-Thursday
End of Summer Celebration at A Musing Potpourri

Miracle Makeover for Charlie

2011-08-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

I believe in miracles. The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.(Hebrews13:8)
Now if Jesus performed miracles, healed the sick, cast out demons, etc yesterday, He will do the same today and
forever. We need to get it into our minds that God can perform miracles for us. All we have to do is believe and act uponwhat Gods word says. When we do that, a miracle will happen in your life.

You can be a part of a miracle that is going on now.

Please go to the link below to meet little Charlie. He has brain tumors and is currently going through chemo.

Watch the excitement as people work together to give him and his siblings miracle makeovers for their rooms.

Miracle Makeover - Charlie

Please visit the following participating blogs.

http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/

http://www.designgivesback.com/

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

http://countrywingsinphoenix.blogspot.com/

Please leave comments, comments and more comments.

Every comment left on each of these blogs earns a dollar for Friends of Kids With Cancer

Sunday Reflections

2011-08-07T08:22:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like you are all alone?

God's word shows that you are not alone in this world. The Lord is your father.

He is looking out for your good and always watches over you.

"As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;

Psalms 103:13

"I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

Linking to my friends at Spiritual Sunday. Join them for more of God's word.

Pink Saturday

2011-08-05T23:23:00.000-07:00

Do you love pink?

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How could anyone not enjoy cooking in this cheerful kitchen?

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Love the pale pink color of the walls.

Photo courtesy of myhomeideas.com

So cute for a little princess.

Hope you have enjoyed the pink eye candy. Pink just always makes everything look more cheerful.

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

Linking to Pink Saturday Blog Party Come join the fun!

Rednesday

2011-08-02T20:19:00.000-07:00

Are these vintage Raggedy Ann and Andy's not beautiful?

These were on display at the antique mall. However, they were a bit pricey for my budget.

Ragged Ann was a fictional character created by the American writer, Johnny Gruelle, for a series of children books. (1880 -1938)

Gruelle created the Raggedy Ann doll for his daughter Marcella when she brought him an old rag doll and he drew a face for it.

He introduced Raggedy Andy dressed in a sailor suit and hat in 1920.

Marcella died at age 13 after being vaccinated for smallpox without her parent consent.

Authorities blamed a heart defect but her parents blamed the vaccination.

Gruelle became an opponent of vaccination and the Raggedy Ann doll was used as a

symbol by the anti-vaccination movement.

So glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

I'm linking to Rednesday Visit for more pretty reds.

Birthday, beach and blues

2011-08-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe the youngest grandbaby just turned two. Seems like only yesterday. . .

Big brother stepped up to the plate to help her blow out the candles.

The only thing that rivals birthday cake is a day at the beach!

She has Papa wrapped around her little finger.

Be sure to visit Smiling Sally for Blue Monday and wish her a speedy recovery. She is

truly a dedicated blogger, blogging from the ER. Get well quickly Sally!

A great philosopher once said. . .

2011-07-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

When it's too hot to do any work, go thrifting.

Well, actually, I'm the one that said it and it seemed like a good idea.

I visited one of my favorite stops. . . the Antique Mall of Brevard.

I love this beautiful pink watering can.

. . . more pretty pinks

lots of pretty milk glass . . .

It was such fun enjoying the cool and pouring over all of the beautiful treasures.

Then the guilt set in. A very wise person once told me

"Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today." She also told me quite frequently

A stitch in time saves nine.

That wise person was my sweet grandmother. She had sayings for everything and

her words come back to me often. Sometimes as a sweet memory and other times to give me

direction or get me back on task.

Do you have any sayings that were passed on to you and continue to be with you today?

Words you find yourself repeating?

I think I need to get busy and make up some lost time. I'm glad you dropped by and

y'all come back.

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

O is for optimist

2011-07-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Are you an optimist? Do you always look on the bright side of things?

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An optimist is a fellow who believes a housefly is looking for a way to get out. – George Jean Nathan

An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day. – Irv Kupcinet

An optimist is a driver who thinks that empty space at the curb won’t have a hydrant beside it. – Jules Renard

An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves. – Bill Vaughan

Always the eternal optimist, President Reagan instilled confidence and optimism at a time both were in short supply in our country. – Jim Ramstad

After watching the news, hearing how bad things are locally, nationally and internationally I just felt the need to remind myself and others that there is always a bright side and that every cloud has a silver lining!

I'm joining Jenny Mattlock for Alphabe-Thursday

Glad y'all dropped by and come on back!

Paint Party

2011-07-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

Thought I would join the paint party fun! Nothing gets my blood flowing better than a good thrift store find and a can of paint!

This little entry table was my latest Goodwill find.

She started out looking like . . .

This one was fun to give new life to but I think my favorite of all time is my hutch and dining room table find.

The chairs had beautiful needlework that I just couldn't bring myself to cover up.

If you like to paint or just enjoy some good eye candy go over to
Cindy's paint party

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

Cool blues on a hot summer day

2011-07-25T16:07:00.000-07:00

These beautiful lupines grow naturally in fields at Acadia National Park.

Their shades range from a beautiful baby blue to deep violet.

I so wish they could take the heat at home. I would fill by back yard with them!

This is one of the many small lakes in the park.

Thanks for dropping by and y'all come back.

Joining Blue Monday

Outdoor Wednesday

Sunday Reflections

2011-07-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

He will quiet you with his love. Zephaniah 3:17

Jesus did not answer a word. Matthew 15:23

Have you ever experienced a crushing sorrow, a bitter disappointment, or a heartbreaking blow

from an unexpected place?

It is then that we cry out to hear His voice speak to us.

But sometimes there is only silence, not a word.

His heart must break listening to our cries Often, our impatient hearts cry out because we fail to see

through our tear blinded eyes that it is for our own sakes that He does not answer at all or that he answers

in a way that we think is not best.

The silences of Jesus are as powerful as His words and may be a sign not of His disapproval but of his

approval and His way of providing a deeper blessing for us.

Sometimes His love is silent because His love is beyond the power of words to express it and beyond

our understanding.

Other times it is silent so that we may learn to trust Him. He will "do wonders never before done"

(Ex 34:10)

If we will learn the mystery of His silence and praise Him every time for His silence.

Linking to Spiritual Sundays

A few thrifty finds

2011-07-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or is this summer going by at break neck speed? Maybe it's because my "to do" list keeps growing instead of shrinking. Honestly, I am working hard at completing those projects I saved until summer but every time I set down to enjoy a little blog surfing, I see all these wonderful things going on and I just have to add them to my list.

That being said, I decided to take a little break today and go north across the line into N.C. in search of cooler air. I not only found cooler air, I found. . . you guessed it, some fun thrift shops.

There were so many wonderful things but I was good and only brought home a few. The little candle snuffer was just 50 cents. It should help with the wall candle sconces. It was either buy this or grow taller so I can blow them out.

I love these watermelon placemats. There were only 5 but they were just $2.50 and I'm going to use them to make more pillows for the front porch.

The toile memo board is already up and ready for use. It seems I need memos and sticky notes more and more. Can you buy them by the truck load? With the aging of America, maybe that's something I should buy stock in.

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back! I'm linking to Thrifty Things Friday Come join the fun!

Sailing on a schooner

2011-07-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

The high temps today have me longing for Maine and sailing.I'm not complaining mind you. I promised I wouldn't complain about heat this past winter.

One of our adventures last month was to take the Margaret Todd Schooner out of Bar Harbor. It is a 151 foot schooner and cruises Frenchman's Bay.

Arriving early, I picked the best seat in the house . . . or so I thought.

See that humongous sail? I was right under it and there was a terrific rainstorm the night before.

You guessed it. . . When the sail was hoisted I got a free shower. I should have taken my soap.

Mr.Vintage, resting after helping to hoist the sails. Did I mention that it is a

~~four~~ ~~man~~, four woman crew? And did I mention that Mr. Vintage really, really enjoyed his little boat ride?

The water and skies were crystal clear.

If you are going to be in the area or want more information you can go here.

No, I don't work for them but it was an inexpensive, fun, little adventure.

If the heat holds on here I may become a stow away. I'm sure they could use a hard working Mema!

Linking to
Outdoor Wednesday
Watery Wednesday
Picture Story

Playing, junking, and decorating . . .

2011-07-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is enjoying their July! We had a wonderful few days at the beach with family and friends. Those hot temps just screamed come get in the water!

The grand babies enjoyed the magic of the ocean.

I did manage to get in some thrifting. My favorite find was a little vintage dress and photo.

I'm sorry about the quality of the photo. I really should not have shot it on a white leather sofa. Guess I kept my brain out in the sun too long.

It has sweet little pink roses on the dress and bonnet and is from the 50's. Since I am too, I just had to have it. Guess that makes us both vintage. I think the little pink vintage photo frame will be cute displayed with it.

My best thrifting deal was free. Those of you that follow my blog regularly may remember that I replaced
this brass fixture last summer. I know I'm slow but I just admitted I'm vintage, anyway. . .
I decided to see how she would look painted so I disassembled her and put a coat of primer on.

Then I applied two coats of white Rustoleum and took her to her new home at the condo.

She blends right in with all of the white there and you just can't beat free!

I'm so glad you dropped by. Y'all come join me at

Vintage Thingy Thursday

Thrifty Things Friday

Show and Tell Friday

Pink Saturday

What happened to June?

2011-06-29T19:07:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a great week and gearing up for the 4th! I'm not really sure where June has gone. It has been a busy time for us with lots of birthdays, several trips and just life in general. I looked out of my window this morning and was pleased to see that my canna's are flourishing on plain ole' neglect!

A walk to the front yard shows all is well, except for a few weeds that have taken up residence . I would like to introduce you to my ant, Andy. We grow em' big here in the south!

See him... on the bench? No, they're not quite that big around here in real life but if you have ever been bit by a fire ant, you would swear he was that big. Those of you in the colder climates are lucky. . . they are really mean little rascals!

I have some great advice I will share about getting rid of them, stick with the professionals! I did some research (on the net) and came up with several remedies. First I sprinkled instant grits onto the ant hill. Supposedly, it will make them blow up when they eat it and then drink water. It only makes them happy and fatter.

Then I tried boiling water and adding dish detergent. It does a great job of killing your sod. The ants . . . well, they just moved the queen and built a new hill about 3 feet from where they were.Just stick with the professionals, they know what they are doing.

I have not had a chance to decorate for the 4th and we will be out of town again but I have enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful decorations on your blogs. You are all so talented.

I did manage to change one thing on the porch. I pulled out my watermelon pillows. These will have to do until I get more time.

I think I will research time management. . . hopefully I'll do better than I have with the ants.

I'm glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

I'm linking this post to:

REDnesday and Outdoor Wednesday

Sunday Reflections

2011-06-25T20:20:00.000-07:00

How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 36:7

When I first saw this heart in the sand it made me smile. I couldn't help but wonder about the one who drew it. Perhaps it was drawn by a child for his mom in appreciation for a fun day at the beach . . . or
an outward expression of puppy love from a spirited, young, adolescent . . . or perhaps a couple in their autumn years grateful for yet another day together.

Love has been the subject of countless books, poems and discussions throughout the years. It's image has been used to sell everything from mouthwash to cars and yet the world often forgets the giver of endless, unconditional love.

There is no one excluded from your limitless love, Lord. That includes me! I am so grateful to find shelter in your protective love. I know life will be filled with ups and downs, but I also know that if I continue to trust in you, the "downs" will be buffered by the knowledge that I am perfectly safe and truly cared for by you.
It is so comforting to know that I am never disqualified from receiving your love. It is always accessible to me. Only my unwillingness to accept it can ever deprive me of it.
You are my God. I thank you and I love you!

I am linking this post to Spiritual Sundays - Come join me for wonderful, uplifting posts.

Maine Retreat

2011-06-21T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a wonderful summer! I know I have been awol for awhile. I have missed keeping up with all of the fun things you have been doing on your blogs.
I just got back from a cool Maine retreat. That part of the country is just breath taking and the weather was a welcome break from the smouldering heat we are having in S.C.

After flying into Portland, our first stop was Camden. I love all the beautiful old homes on the bay.

The beautiful blue sky, crystal clear water and backdrop of the mountains created such a peaceful, serene atmosphere... unlike the hustle and bustle I had just left at the airport. In my rush to get through security, I failed to remove 3 Tums from my jeans pocket.To my dismay and embarrassment, additional security was called over after the announcement that there was a white female with an "anomalie." After relinquishing my three little Tums I was able to go on my redfaced way! I really needed those Tums after that little drama.

Oh well, I guess they were just doing their job.... better safe that sorry. You never know what a Tums terrorist has in mind.

Glad y'all dropped by,come join me at Watery Wednesday and Outdoor Wednesday

Memorial Day Thanksgiving and Praise

2011-05-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. Psalm 69:30

On this Memorial Day Week end let us remember to give thanks to God for our freedom. For the women and men that have served and paid the ultimate price for this freedom and for his protection of our nation. God Bless America!

Joining Spiritual Sundays

Pottery Barn Knock Off

2011-05-26T22:06:00.000-07:00

My grandson will soon be four and is really into pirates. I saw this picnic table in Pottery Barn catalog and loved it ... but the price, not so much.

I was so excited when I found one very similar at Anna White's blog . She is so talented and has the neatest things. If you haven't visited her site fix yourself a snack and go on over... you'll be there a while. I want to try every project she has.

Mr. Vintage and I decided to give it a whirl. I printed out the materials list and we were off to Lowe's.

I will admit, at this stage I was really nervous but we pushed on. Mr. Vintage was smart enough to label the pieces as we cut. That really saved us a lot of time and headaches later.

I added 6 inches to the height and 8 inches to the length to give him a little grow room!

All assembled and ready to be painted.

Instead of adding an umbrella, his sports a pirate flag.

I think I feel a new hobby coming on. Move over Bob the Builder... here I come!

Thanks for dropping by. I hope all of you have a fun, safe, Memorial Day week-end!

I'm linking this post to the following parties:

Show and Tell at Romantic Home

Thrifty Things Friday at Thrifty Groove

Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch

Transformations and Treasures at The Pink Postcard

Dean Koontz and camping???

2011-05-23T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful week-end. I have spent the last four days camping in N.C. with no internet and no phone signal unless I drove about five miles out of the forest.
Let me offer some advice, I know I am no advice columnist but I'm just saying...
Never and I mean never go camping and take along a Dean Koontz novel to read. I was jumping at every sound outside and while hiking, everyone looked like a potential serial killer. I should have taken my camera. I may have helped solve some unsolved cases.

I did get in some thrifting and that made me happy. These little blue canisters are going to the condo.
I got lots of other ~~junk~~, treasures and will be posting them later. They are tucked away along with my camera and a ton of laundry to do.

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

I am joining Smiling Sally at Blue Monday

E is for Epitaph

2011-05-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

I spotted this grave stone at an outside market and had to snap a shot.

The perfect epitaph for someone feeling poorly or a hypochondriac.

I'm joining...

Alphabet Thursday

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

Sunday Reflections

2011-05-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

My peace I give you. (John 14:27)

When I think of peace I think of the story I heard long ago. Two artists were asked to paint a picture illustrating their own idea of peace. The first for his scene choose a quiet, lonely lake nestled among mountains far, far away. The second painted a thundering waterfall. Beneath the falls grew a fragile tree, bending over the foam. On its' branches, nearly wet from the falls sat a robin on its' nest.

The first painting was simply a painting of inactivity. The second, depicted rest and peace.

I've often thought if I could paint, I would love to paint a scene like the second one to remind me of what true peace is and that Christ is the giver of this peace

Christ endured a very troubled life. Storms and turmoil and waves broke over him until he was laid in the grave. His inner life however was smooth as a sea of glass, and a great calm was always there. Anyone could have gone to him at anytime then and still today to find rest. One of his final offerings to the disciples

was "My peace"

Peace is not some holy feeling that comes to us as we sit in church. It is a state of calm rising deeply from the heart of a believer.

Please join me in linking up with Spiritual Sundays

Entry way table fun...

2011-05-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am so happy, Well, pretty much. I need you to help me decide about a color. I have an entry table to share with you today. It really started out as a jewelry armoire. It was in pretty good shape but not really my style.
I stopped by the Goodwill on the way to the beach while Mr. VS sat in the car (not his favorite place to go but he puts up with it.) When I spotted it I thought it was just the right height and length for the condo entry. I knew the mirror would have to go... to dated. It reminded me of Bonanza. Do any of you remember that show? Anyway, I digress. Here she is.

I asked Mr. VS to go in and take a look while I sat with Skipper. As much as they love us there they will not allow dogs. In my haste, as by this point Mr. VS nor Skipper were very happy. I forgot to mention the mirror. Did I tell you it gets hot in the car in SC in May?
Long story short, Mr. VS thought it was broken and hideous... but I won.

The first thing ~~we,~~ Mr.VS, did was remove the mirror. (Don't tell him but I have plans for it as well.)
Then we reattached the top center with wood glue and sanded it all over. I painted it with a coat of my oops paint I had left over from my china hutch redo . Then I changed out the drawer pull with a crystal look pull from Home Depot. The table was twenty-two with my senior discount and the hardware 3.50.

Now to the decision. It is bright and happy looking in the entry but I'm just not sure. I'm trying to decide if I should distress it a little.(There isn't a lot of detail on this piece to highlight though), and tone it down with a little whitewash or walnut minwax? Mr. VS wanted to leave it as is but then that would require more painting and he has after all painted all of the condo and ~~a hundred pieces~~ a lot of pieces of furniture.

Please let me know what you think. I am really going back and forth on this one. So glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

I'm joining:
Thrifty Things Friday at Thrifty Groove
Show and Tell at My Romantic Home
Transformations and treasures at Pink Postcard
Blue Monday at Smiling Sally
Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch

Blessing of the inlet

2011-05-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a great week-end! We attended the Blessing of the inlet Saturday and it was wonderful.
The Belin Memorial United Methodist Church at Murrells Inlet has been having a ceremony/festival every year for 15 years. They usually average about 10,000 residents and visitors each year.

The bagpipes playing Amazing Grace sent an instant hush all over the crowd. There is just something about Amazing Grace and bagpipes that touches my heart.

The American flag was hung high in a tree by the marsh and my heart swelled with pride as fellow Americans pledged to it and proudly sang the National Anthem. America has been so blessed. We, (and I'm at the top of the list), often take our freedoms and our blessings for granted.

The voices of Belin's praise team and choir echoing out over the waters of the inlet, the soft breeze blowing and the occasional murmur of a sweet child's voice produced a serene almost spiritual calmness.

Psalm 104: 24-25 ~

“How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number-living things both large and small.”

What a wonderful reminder that He made it all and is forever and ever in charge. If He cares this much for the sea and it's creatures how much more does He care for us?

Come join me at Spiritual Sundays and Outdoor Wednesday

Small bath redo

2011-05-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great week-end. We are at the condo for a few days and I thought I would share the small bath redo. Don't blink or you will not be able to see it, the room is so small. When we bought the condo a little over a year ago the bath along with every other room was painted builders beige.
I wanted to go for an old beach cottage look and with my love of thrifting and ~~cheap~~, frugal finds, I set out to make some changes.
The first thing I did was to repaint the room. Sorry I don't have a before. That was before I got into blogging.

The paint is Wave Crest by Behr Ulta and it is the palest of blues.

Next, I took down the old brass light fixture, with the help of Mr. Vintage S and painted it white rustoleum.
Sorry about the picture quality.The top picture is a truer color.

While I was on a roll I painted a brass candle holder from Goodwill and a half price sale basket from Hobby Lobby with white rustoleum as well. Man that candle holder is heavy. It could be repurposed as a weapon.

I was so excited, the shower curtain is a $2.00 Goodwill find. I was even more excited when I priced a similar one at Bed Bath and Beyond.

The cherub box, small candlesticks and vase were all thrift store finds as well as the candle sconce.

These lovely cross stitch pictures were from a dear friend. The center 3x3's are cross stitched to blend with the pictures. Every stitch is perfect... such patience!

I found this shelf at... you guessed it, Goodwill. It was a gold color so, it got a coat of Rustoleum.

The roaring twenty's figurine was a gift from my sweet grandmother.She painted her for me in the 70's.
Does that make her vintage or just me? She has a hairline crack but I wouldn't part with her for the world.

The one rule I had in redoing the bath was that anything going in it must be old... like me!

I'm glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

Parties I'm linking to:
Blue Monday
Today's Thrifty Treasures
Show off your cottage Mon
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Power of paint party
Metamorphosis Monday
Thrifty Things Friday

Picture hanging with a paper clip

2011-04-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

I dropped by my favorite thrift shop this week and although I didn't find a lot of things, I found these cute little blue and white plates. They have silver metallic edges which would be a "no, no" if I were going to use them in the kitchen. If they can't go in the microwave, they don't come home with me!

Fortunately, they were the perfect color to go in the guest room and were the right price... 50 cents!

Being ~~anxious to get them up,~~ lazy, I didn't want to go pick up plate hangers. So, I decided to try something I had seen on the internet. I hung them with paper clips.

I simply twisted the clips into a circle (somewhat), and glued them on with E-6000 glue. I let them dry overnight and hung them the next day.

So far so good! I'll let you know how they hold up. I might should provide my guests with football helmets!

I also found another soup tureen for $3.00. This is the first one I've found with the ladle. I just can't pass up tureens. Loved these ivory shams for $2.00.
Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

I'm linking up with:
Under $100 linky party at Beyond the Picket fence
Thrifty things Friday at The Thrifty Groove
Frugal Friday at the Shabby Nest
Show and Tell at My Romantic Home

Outdoor Wednesday...

2011-04-27T15:21:00.000-07:00

Old but not forgotten...

The south is known for it's mills, mainly textile, but this old mill produced cornmeal. Although she looks ragged and worn, plans are to restore her over the next five years.

She churned out sack fulls of cornmeal to the community, and
travelers from afar from
1831 until the 1960's

Most of the workings inside the mill are intact.

The heavy millstones (some 1,500 pounds each) and the foundation are

believed to have been built about the time of

the American Revolution.

As always, when I look back in time I am always amazed at the strength and determination

the generations before us displayed.

I become unraveled if the microwave doesn't work or even worse, the internet.

I'm linking to Outdoor Wednesday

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

Picnic time is here...

2011-04-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

Does anyone other than me remember this guy?

Remember how his favorite thing to do was steal picnic baskets?

Well, I didn't steal a basket but I got a pretty good deal today at the thrift shop!

It was $14 which is more than I wanted to pay but it was like new condition. The flatware and cutting board were sealed in original packaging.

When I saw it I flashed back to my childhood cartoon days. Mr. Vintage S and the grands will get lots of use out of this.

I found a few other things that had to come home with me as well.

I am now the proud owner of a lifetime collection of faux grapes. These were ten clusters to a bag for $4.

I had just priced them at Hobby Lobby for $2.99 a cluster. I don't know what I'll use them for but couldn't pass them up. (It's a sickness I have.)

The sea urchin and little votive holder were both one dollar each.

I know this is an odd collection of ~~junk,~~ really unique stuff, but one just never knows what one will find when on a thrifting adventure. It's all about "the hunt."

Happy hunting, and y'all come back.

I'm linking to Thrifty Things Friday at Dianne's Thrifty Groove

Come join the fun!

Outdoor Wednesday

2011-04-20T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone has had a wonderful day. I just love spring time and being outside. My oldest Knock out Rose is just blooming its' little heart out.

These are my kind of roses. No pruning or fussing!

We couldn't resist a trip to the park in a nearby city with this wonderful weather. The flowers there were so pretty.

The grand babies were much more interested in getting to the playground equipment than posing for pictures.

They were little troopers. They did pose for a couple of shots to please Mema and Papa. After we got to the fun slides and swings, pictures were out of the question. A camera just can't compete with a good slide or castle.

Linking to Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer. Drop by for lots of fun posts.

Honey gets a spring outfit...

2011-04-16T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is having a great Saturday. Ours started out with rain down pours, then winds to make you tie down the hatches and now it is a beautiful sun shiny day. In this part of the country if you don't like the weather just wait a little while because it is constantly changing.

Today I want to introduce you to Honey. She is porcelain and I made her about twenty five years ago. She also has a twin bother, Sonny.She has sported many different outfits over the years and today I decided to change her out and display her for the summer. She seems to like her new casual summer clothes.

This is a print of one of the Charleston houses.I don't know the name of the house but I would love to live there ... in my dreams. It has just enough pink in it that I think it will work at the condo in one of the baths.

I'm linking up to Pink Saturday at How sweet the sound.
Have a great day and y'all come on back!

New window treatments...

2011-04-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

Last week at the condo I got a few more things completed. Those of you that have been following my blog know that I have a little condo that I am attempting to decorate ~~frugally~~," on the cheap" in an old beach cottage style. I want it to be something the family can enjoy without worrying about messing anything up and one that has a feel of the beach years ago. I have found and drug furniture from three different states to clean, repair and paint. The dining area was my first project and I posted it here.

I am now concentrating on the master bedroom and was so excited when I found these cottage style valances for three dollars at my favorite place, the Goodwill store.

I decided to hang white sheers on each side on a dark rod to anchor the room since everything else in the room is basically white.

I painted the walls a pale yellow. Hopefully, when I go back down I will able to complete it for the reveal.

I did hit one yard sale while I was there and you guessed it, I bought more whites.

The shelf was two dollars and I plan to make it a memory shelf. I spied the cute little boxes and was thinking gift boxes for a quarter. I was really surprised when I picked them up, they rattled. Just what I needed white napkin rings! The taupe fabric was a dollar and will make a nice runner or pillow.
I'm glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

Parties I'm linking to:
Open House Party Thursday
Thrifty Things Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Under $100 Linky Party

Outdoor Wednesday

2011-04-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

I'm publishing this post again. I don't know what happened to my other picture. I guess it is floating around somewhere in cyber space. This is the unedited version. The other one was better. It hid some of my photographer mistakes!
Thanks to those of you who visited and there was no picture. I really didn't throw it out with all of my cleaning but if this keeps up the computer may be the next thing to get tossed.

Today I'm joining Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday

I have been MIA for a few days. After getting back home from the condo I have been finishing up a bit of spring cleaning. It's times like this I say I am going to give up thrifting... so much ~~junk,~~ wonderful stuff. I did manage to finish up the last closet in time to get some fresh air and a shot of the lovely irises while they are at their peak.
I have missed visiting your blogs and am looking forward to catching up on all you have going on in blog land.

2011-04-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great week-end. After working hard at the condo all week we kicked back and took it easy. We stopped by the state park as they were having special activities to kick off April. They had lots of games and activities for the kiddo but this is the place I choose. Do you think I'm still wiped out from the classroom or what? Naw! If the grands had been with me I would have been right in the middle of everything.

After all of the rain that beautiful blue sky was so welcome!

I did a little thrifting. Those of you that read my blog regularly know that is my favorite thing to do...
well, next to eating. I found several goodies that I will share later but this is my most needed find.

I know it just looks like a book but it is going to get my life organized. It is a journal that I am going to use for all of my Sunday Reflections. Right now they are here, there and everywhere!
I'm glad you dropped by and y'all come back.

Linking to Blue Monday and Outdoor Wednesday

Sunday Reflections

2011-04-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to share the words of Dr. Charles Stanley. I am often the queen of worry and these words gave me comfort. Hoping it gives you the comfort it gave me, Annette

God’s Amazing Promise

Luke 12:22-32
Anxiety is reaching epidemic proportions in our culture. As believers, however, we are commanded not to worry (v. 22). Instead, we’re to rely on a conditional promise from our heavenly Father: If we will seek His kingdom, all our needs will be provided (v. 31). This is the opposite of the world’s philosophy, which tells us to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and do what we can to meet our own needs. What a relief to rely on the sovereign King of all creation instead of our meager strength.

Consider these qualities of our King:

He keeps His word. Every promise is backed by His divine nature. According to Titus 1:2, God cannot lie. He never makes a promise that He won’t keep.

He is all-knowing. Our heavenly Father is mindful of all our needs—the ones we bring to Him in prayer as well as those of which we are unaware.

He is all-powerful. The sovereign Ruler of the universe backs His promises with almighty power. “Nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).

He cares. God’s provision for birds and flowers is proof of His even greater care for those who are made in His image. Not only is He able to meet our needs, but He also wants to provide for us.

Will you believe God, seek His kingdom, and rest in the peace that passes understanding? Or will you doubt Him and live with the anxiety of not being sure your needs will be met? The promise is given, the fulfillment is certain, and now the choice is yours.

Linking this post to Spiritual Sundays with Charlotte and Ginger

Thrifty Finds for condo...

2011-04-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I am ready for the week-end! We had a few days of rain this week so I used that time to do some more work in the condo and go thrifting. I had found a dresser at Goodwill back in the fall so I finally got it finished. The plan was to use it in the guest room but Mr. Vintage got a bigger TV so I decided it would work as an entertainment center.

Like everything that comes into the condo, it got cleaned and painted white!

The pull handles were original but two were broken so I replaced them with wooden knobs to match the knobs on the top drawers... well almost. I found some very close for half price at Hobby Lobby. It will also have to do double duty to house some linens in the bottom drawers. Space is a premium around here.

The decorative items are all thrift items . The little Easter tree is the one I showed in a post earlier undecorated. I found the little eggs at the Dollar Tree.

This lamp was free. It was in my attic back home and was an ugly brass. I sanded it lightly and spray painted it with Rustoleum white.

The picture frames and tissue holder were earlier Goodwill finds. I love the vintage look of the larger one.

Finally, I found this little cherub wooden box thrifting this week. I'm sure I'll find a place for it.

Linking to:
Thrifty Things Friday
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Cindy's Show and Tell

Cherry Grove

2011-03-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Spring breakers are starting to arrive here at the coast but the warm weather is alluding us. Hopefully it will warm up before the week is over. I hate for all of our young souls to be disappointed. I remember spring breaks back in the day ( yes, even that far back). It was so exciting but such a let down if the weather was bad.

Cherry Grove Pier at sunrise.

This early it is just me and the sea gulls!

Thanks for dropping by and y'all come back.

I'm linking to Outdoor Wednesday and Watery Wednesday Head on over to see lots of beautiful sites.

Sunday Reflections

2011-03-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

Trust in the Lord, and do good;

so you will live in the land, and enjoy security.

Psalm 37:3

Some days it is so hard to watch the news or even read the paper.

Evil seems so prevalent in the world.

When I stop to think however

I know that evil will not prevail. God will prevail in

all things and I must keep my focus on him and what is right,

even though it seems as if doing wrong would get me ahead and doing right

will cause me grief.

I am reminded to choose to do good, and entrust my well being and security to him.

Please join Charlotte and Ginger at Spiritual Sundays for inspiration and uplifting posts.

Thrifty Wreath

2011-03-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! Spring is playing tricks on us here. It was 80 yesterday and 62 today. It is sunny so I ignored the temps and hung my revamped spring wreath anyway.

If you remember, I found this wreath at Goodwill last summer for $2.00. I used it through the fall but it was looking a little tired . So, I quickly pulled the flowers off. Well, not too quickly, someone really glued those flowers on!

I wanted something bright for spring so I headed out to the Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby for some new colorful supplies.

I found the yellow and red tulips and the cute gingham ribbon at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. I then picked up the filler greenery and little white flowers... don't know what they are, at my favorite Dollar Tree. Next I pulled out my E-Z bow maker to make a new bow. If you don't have and E-Z bow maker you need to beg borrow or steal one. They are so easy! Even I can make bows with them and I can hardly tie my shoes!

Well, it's all finished for a grand total of ten dollars. I love the vivid reds and yellows.

The yellow even matches the lovely yellow pollen that has settled all over everything. However, I won't complain... I have been so anxious for Spring to get here, even the pollen.

Thanks for dropping by and y'all come back.

Linking up here

Metamorphosis Monday

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Twice Owned Tuesday

2nd Time Around
Under $100 linky party

Show and Tell

Junkin Finds Friday

Frugal Friday

My new friends...

2011-03-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day today so I decided to take a walk around the complex. I want to introduce you to my newest friends.... well sorta.

If I didn't know better, I would think they were giving me the cold shoulder! Being the friendly person that I am, I decided to move a little closer. They obviously didn't see me.

Mr. Goosey immediately began to squawk. Just look at his little beak. If I spoke goose, I'm sure my feelings would be hurt. Shortly after, he and Mrs. Goosey just up and flew away!

Wishing you a Happy Wednesday and I hope your friends don't fly away!
Linking this post to Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer.

Happy Monday!

2011-03-14T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great week-end. We had the grand babies at the beach this week-end. They were so much fun but I am whipped. Nothing like a toddler and a three year old to make you feel your age.

I thought I would share some blues today.

I painted some little plastic eggs robins egg blue. The flat finish of the paint makes them look more realistic. The cloche and rabbit were thrifting finds.

Next is my naked tree.

I bought the little tree years ago which makes it ~~vintage,~~ ancient. I found a terracotta pot and painted it pale blue and then filled it with a styrofoam plant block. I had some white Easter grass so it went on top.

All it needs is some little decorations. I'm sure I'll find something at the Dollar Tree or Michael's to do the trick.

Finally, I have shared before, my Cottage sign.

It was a scratched up pink and black princess sign at TJ Maxx .I loved the shape. And since there are no princesses around here it needed a make over.

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

I'm linking this post to the following meme's. Come join the fun!

Blue Monday at Smiling Sally's

Metamorphosis Monday at BNOTP

Junkin finds at ala carte

Spring has sprung

2011-03-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

The Bartlett Pear tree is all decked out to welcome spring time.

... as well as the pansies.

Allie the alligator is checking out the tulips that are popping up in the pansies.

I can't wait to get out and dig in the dirt!

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back

I'm joining Outdoor Wednesday

Chandelier Find

2011-03-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

Hey Y'all. I hope you had a good week-end. The weather keeps teasing of spring. It is warm one day and cold the next. The rain changed my plans for working in the yard but I did get a few things marked off of my to-do list inside.
Several weeks ago I visited one of my favorite antique shops and found this wonderful old chandelier.

The owner had found it at an estate sell and had not had time to clean and restore it. Some of the candle cover 'thingys" were burned, it was dirty and the crystals were a tangled mess.

She said she would let it go for $99 "as is". It was what I had been looking for and I felt like I could restore it so I brought it home.

Mr. Vintagesouthern checked out the wiring and I cleaned and untangled. I then replaced the candle cover

"thingys" and bulbs. The plan was to take it to the condo but after holding it up in the dining room at home I decided to use it here.

I guess I'm back to looking for another one... and y'all know how bad I hate shopping and thrifting but somebody's got to do it.

Just thinking here... I really could use another more vintagy dining room set. I don't think I'll say that out loud just yet. I'll wait and look and bring it up when the time is right.

Do any of you do that? Replace one thing and that starts the wheels turning to replace other things in the room that somehow don't look quiet right anymore? Guess that's why I'm a thrift shopper. That and the fact I love the hunt!

Glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

I'm linking to the following blog parties.
Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch
Under $100 linky party at Beyond the Picket Fence
Vintage Thingie Thursday at Colorado Lady
Junkin Finds Friday at A La Carte
Show and Tell at Cindy's Romantic Home

Sunday Reflections

2011-03-05T19:36:00.000-08:00

Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us? How long will his love endure? Will he really love us forever?

Reflecting on a difficult week I started to wonder... did I cross the line when I lost my patience with doctors that seemed only concerned with their time and had not listened or even read the medical reports?
Did He withdraw the love he had for me, when I felt my fears begin to rise and my faith begin to quiver?
Did he write me off as hopeless when I acted like a jerk?

I knew the answer to these questions all along. I just needed to pause and remind myself, the answer and assurance was written before I even asked the questions.Why would he love me enough to send his son to die for me only to take back that love when I came up short? His word tells me that Nothing!!! will separate me from his love.

Thank you Jesus for loving me in spite off all my short comings.

I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Rom. 8:38-39

Join me at Spiritual Sundays with Charlotte and Ginger

Sunday Reflections

2011-02-27T09:49:00.000-08:00

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Psalm 32:8

I am so thankful for this promise. It is wonderful to know that I don't have to depend on my own understanding and judgement. He is always there to guide and direct even when in my finite little brain I forget.

Linking this post to http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/ Please visit to read lots of encouraging posts or to link one.

Sunday Reflections

2011-02-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!

This is the time of the year that love is in the air. While I know Valentines Day is a driven by retailers to boost sales I like that it draws attention to something that is a universal need... love.

We all need to feel needed, wanted and loved. I like the bright reds and festive spirit it brings. It to me is a signal that the dull, gray winter is behind us and spring and new life is ahead.

Great is your love, higher than the heavens;

your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,

and let your glory be over all the earth.

Psalm 108:4-5

It is wonderful to know that God is the creator of love. His love is unconditional and it is freely given to anyone that is willing to accept it. It is not based on status, possessions, accomplishments or any of the things we put high stock in here on earth. It is so comforting to know that nothing I do will make him love me more and... nothing I do will make him love me less.

If you special Valentine is no longer with you or is far far away know that you are loved and that our omnipresent God is with you always!

Join me at Spiritual Sundays with Charlotte and Ginger for blessings and uplifting posts.

Makeover Mirror and Table

2011-02-08T19:37:00.000-08:00

I have got one more thing marked off of my to-do list. Sometimes I think it multiplies over night.
Back in the fall I found this really neat mirror and small shelf ? table? at a consignment shop. I loved the style
but the bright gold finish and the legs not so much. $50 dollars was more than I wanted to pay but I had the perfect place for it. So I took it home and with the help of Mr. Vintagesouthern hung it on the wall to see if I still loved it before starting the redo.

Skipper said he approved.

BTW, the table attaches to the wall with only two legs. The phantom hand holding the table is

Mr. Vintage and not Thing from the Munsters Show.

I replaced the legs with more traditional legs.

I painted it black first, then Metallic Rustoleum and finally dry brushed it with

Antique Gold craft paint.

The little bust was a Hobby Lobby find. I think she was half off. I have had her for a while.

When it's cold outside it is the perfect time to paint and get things done.

Hope your having a good week. I'm glad you dropped by and y'all come back!

I'm linking this post to Metamorphosis Monday

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

2nd Time Around

Under $100 linky party

Thrifty Thursday

Junkin Finds Friday
Wow Us Wednesday

Sunday Reflections

2011-02-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

He gives snow like wool;

he scatters frost like ashes.

He hurls down hail like crumbs-

who can stand before his cold?

He sends out his word, and melts them;

he makes his wind blow, and the waters flow.

Psalm 147:16-18

I'm ready for springtime. I want to see growth and greenery, days getting longer, and breezes bringing warmth. Spring brings newness, and winter has me feeling old. But the psalmist reminds me that God is the author of both. With his creative power, he can freeze a stream and melt it. He can send a gale-force wind, and can knit together a snowflake.

Lord, I stand in wonder, awed by your amazing strength and I ask you to work your wonders in me. Melt my frozen streams of thought and blow powerfully through all that I do and say, Amen

Linking to Spiritual Sundays Drop by to enjoy many uplifting posts.

Photo credit Flickr

Quite.... the popular ground hog

2011-02-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

Punxsutawney Phil is quite the popular groundhog this year! After the winter we have been having folks were relieved that he did not see his shadow. Legend has it that if he doesn't see his shadow we can expect an early spring, yeah!!

Do you believe this legend or have any other beliefs or superstitions that have been passed down ?

One that comes to mind for me immediately is : Step on a crack, break your mama's back.

I can tell you that is not true. I remember after getting a much deserved spanking ~~stepping,~~ stomping on

the crack. (Sorry mom! I was little remember? )

Maybe this post should have been titled, Quick, get me therapy.

Thanks for stopping by. Please leave a comment... I would love to hear your superstitions.

Come on Spring!!!

I'm linking this post to Alphabe-Thursday with Jenny. Drop by her site for some fun posts

Sunday Reflections

2011-01-29T19:04:00.000-08:00

The Lord upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down.

Psalm 145:14

O Lord Thou knowest how busy I must be this day: if I forget thee, do not thou forget me.

Sir Jacob Astley

This prayer above was uttered by a soldier before a battle in the English Civil War. Some of our days can be like a series of little wars on many fronts. It is so easy to be consumed by them,

by the energy and attention they require.

If we forget God in the heat of battle, he does not forget us. And when we remember

him and our need for him, he is just as near as he was the last time we were

fully aware of his presence.

Link to Spiritual Sundays with Charlotte and Ginger for uplifting posts.

A red tour

2011-01-26T18:54:00.000-08:00

I am so ready for spring! Today I was looking around the house and planning in my mind all of the changes I want to do when spring arrives. This prompted me do take a good hard look at my snowmen and wintery (is that a word) decorations.

I thought I would share some of my reds and thrifty finds I have found this year. Most of them will be packed away after Valentines day to rest until next winter.

I found this little red cannister at Hobby Lobby after Christmas. It was on the 66% off sales table. I just love the little Cardinal.

I found these vintage red place mats at an estate sale. I put them on the small kitchen table to enjoy until after Valentines Day. I need to add some hearts or something. I don't do a lot of decorating for Valentines day. I don't want to send the wrong message..... you see I'm all about eating out not cooking!

Some more red on my favorite tray which was a Goodwill find...

a little snowman on the shelf...

Meet my little snow family lamp. It sits on the counter to bring some light in the long

winter nights.

and finally, these little snow people stand in the foyer waiting to welcome ~~company,~~ visitors.

(does anyone besides us southeners still call visitors company? )

I found them at the Home Goods store last year for 1/2 price.

They are as big as kindergartners and the grand babies love them.

Thanks for dropping by and y'all come back.

I'm joining:

Rednesday

Vintage Thingie Thursday

Thrifty Thursday

Junkin Friday

Sunday Reflections

2011-01-22T16:11:00.000-08:00

Flickr-hlkljgk's photos

Depart from evil and do good;seek peace, and pursue it.

Psalm 34:14

Help me dear Lord, to seek peace. That might mean I have to back down from an argument. It might mean I don't get my way. It might mean I don't get in the last word. It might mean I don't have to be right all of the time. I don't have to win. Help me to put aside my selfish goals and to consider the needs of others.

Give me a sense of what You want in every situation.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Matthew 5:9

Linking to Spiritual Sundays - Drop by for lots of inspiring posts.

O is for the Ocean

2011-01-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Made a quick trip to the coast. It's so nice after seeing all of the snow back home. It's wonderful here that the ocean never changes. Standing here in the sun looking at the surf one would think it is a warm summers' day.

The temperature is 48 so I won't be staying out here very long.

Oh well, that is fine by me. The main purpose of the trip was to take down Christmas decorations at the condo and do some organizing.

Yes, the decorations are still up. But I will do a better job if the weather is

not warm. I have nooo will power when it comes to work time or beach time.

Thanks for stopping by. I hope y'all are doing well. I plan to do a ~~lot~~ a little bit of organizing and a
lot of blog reading the next few days. Please join me at
Alphabet-Thursday for a fun time!

Sunday Reflections

2011-01-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

I will lie down and sleep in peace;

for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety.

Psalm 4:8

Now I lay me down to sleep.

I pray the Lord my soul to keep.

Peace and safety 'til I wake,

This I pray for Jesus' sake. Amen.

This childhood prayer calls me back to a childlike faith that can set aside the events of the day and embrace a restful night of sleep. Tonight when I lie down to sleep I will remind myself to leave my cares with God and to welcome the peace and safety he offers both day and night.

If I carry my cares and worries with me and never lay them down, even to sleep, I will become less and less able to meet the challenges they represent. Worry is a form of self-destruction, while faith is a means of daily renewal.

This post is linked with Spiritual Sundays

N is for New home for a little rocker

2011-01-12T19:45:00.000-08:00

While thrifting this fall at one of my favorite little antique malls I came across this cute little rocker.
It had lots of scratches and the paint on the back had to go but I knew what I wanted to do with it.
And besides, it looked like it needed a new home.

First it had to be sanded down. The painting on the back was very resistant but it finally came off.

Then it got several coats of white paint.

Next I made a little lavender gingham check cushion with lots of ruffles.

Finally, it was ready for its' new home but it had to wait until Christmas.

It would be one of the surprises for Grandbaby #2

It fit her perfectly!

The little rocker now has a new home where it get lots of love and attention everyday.

Thanks for visiting and y'all come back!

Linking this post to Alphabe-Thursday

Vintage Thingey Thursday

Junkin Finds

That white stuff is back...

2011-01-11T15:09:00.000-08:00

We got more snow here in S.C. While I love it, Skipper is not impressed. It is all over his yard again!

Took a short walk to the river and

down the streets in our neighborhood. No one is going anywhere anytime soon.

In the south,

when it snows everything shuts down!

Thanks for visiting. I'll be right here so ya'll come on back.

Linking to Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer and Watery Wednesday

Drop by for lots of fun shots.

Priorities

2011-01-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

As I packed up the final box of Christmas decoration today I felt a little blue. All of my decoration was packed up a week ago except for one tree. I do this every year. I hold on to one tree telling myself I just want to enjoy the lights a little longer.

With the decorations all up I am forced to look ahead and plan for the new year. I don't make resolutions... gave up on them years ago.When I think of the new year and my priorities I am always reminded of the past year and always a little disappointed with what I have accomplished. My intentions were good but somehow I always get side tracked. It saddens me to think I have not made the most of every opportunity.

I know that God won't settle for second place. Anything that pushes him out of first place actually becomes an idol. Satan has a way of squeezing little things into life that demands attention. The easiest thing in the world is to drift through life in a vague, thoughtless manner.

God says there's a better way. Ephesians 5:15-17

Look carefully then how you walk. Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise-sensible, intelligent people; Making the very most of the time, buying up each opportunity- because the days are evil.
Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is (Amplified Bible)

My prayer is to live this year purposefully and firmly grasping the will of the Lord.

Linking to Spiritual Sundays Drop by for many uplifting posts or to add a post.

Missing luggage

2011-01-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today we enjoyed one of life's simple pleasures, retrieving missing luggage. More specifically, Mr.Vintagesoutherns' luggage.
The good news is, his luggage made it to Israel. The bad news is, he didn't!

Mr. Vintage left for a 10 day tour of the Holy land last week with the church group. He made it as far as the airport in Newark and got snowed in. Unfortunately this was his view for the next two days.

After boarding two planes, mechanical failure, de-icing problems ( the truck caught fire), the first plane getting stuck in the snow after being grounded and having to be towed and sleeping on the airport floor, two days later they tried again.

Because of major overbooking and airport closures, they were not able to accommodate all of the group. They had decided the venture would be all or none so once again they exited another plane.No flights were available to get them anywhere near home so the boarded a Trailways for a sixteen hour ride.

The group returned home very positive... tired but positive. It was a trip that for some reason was not meant to be. I'm sure they will make plans to go again later.

The luggage arrived today after quite an adventure. Too bad no one was available to add souvenirs to it along its unscheduled route.
I better go, need to get Mr. Vintage some medicine, the only thing he brought back was a cold.

Have a good week and y'all come back!

Linking to Simple Pleasures and Alphabe-Thursday

Snow! Glorious Snow!

2010-12-26T06:47:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We had a great time here at the Vintagesouthern household.
The grand babies were such fun. Their excitement and energy level was endless.

I am so excited. This is my first white Christmas! They say we had one here 47 years ago but I don't remember it.It is a first for Skipper too.

We struck out for our walk this morning all bundled up and ready for fun. Skipper used his nose as a snow plow funneling the snow down the neck of his sweater.I had to take the sweater off of him five minutes into the walk as he was turning into a little snow dog.

We were walking along one minute and I was anticipating the beautiful pictures I was going to get and the next minute my bottom was flat down in the snow. How did that happen? I didn't even have time to brace myself for the fall. After ~~checking to see that no one was looking,~~ realizing I was still alive and had all of my limbs safely attached, I just sat there in hysterial laughter. My camera batteries must have fallen into the snow when I fell because when we got to the river for some shots they were gone :( So much for the beautiful photos.

Once I defrost, and find more batteries I will be out and about again but I am realizing I would have never made it as a pioneer woman. Enjoy your day where ever you are and stay safe.

Linking to Outdoor Wednesday

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all my friends out there in blog land!

I started blogging this spring on a whim and had no idea of the warmth, fun, and friendships I would make.

I have so enjoyed visiting your blogs. I have laughed out loud at many of your antics and have been moved to tears by some of your tender stories. I am amazed at the talent you all have and your willingness to share and help those of us that are not so talented.

Thank you for your visits and your sweet and helpful comments. I enjoy reading every one.

Have a wonderful holiday, stay safe, stay warm, and remember, He is the reason for the season!

The Christmas Gift

2010-12-18T08:57:00.000-08:00

I love everything about Christmas! I love the decorating, the shopping, the wrapping, the baking (well, not so much but I do it).It is such a special time of the year. A time to see some friends and family that sadly I see no other time of the year.
Although I love every single minute of all the "hurry and scurry", I have to step back and think about the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas is not about the best decorated house or the prettiest Christmas tree. It's not even about the perfect gift I get for someone because there was really only one perfect gift.
It was the gift of love to all people. It was not wrapped in pretty paper and it was not placed under the perfect Christmas tree in an awesomely decorated house. It was wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed of all places in a lowly manger. There has never been and will never be a greater gift.

Have a Blessed Christmas

and remember...

You are loved!

I am joining Spiritual Sundays Drop by and visit for many uplifting posts.

Christmas Home Tour 2010

2010-12-13T19:27:00.000-08:00

The Nester is hosting the Christmas Tour of Homes and I am so excited to participate for the first time. Hop on over and see lots of beautiful decorations for the holidays.

Welcome to my home. The stockings are hung and Santa is waiting patiently on the mantel for the big day.

Snoopy has been around a long time. He has been placed under one of the trees every year since my son was young and now he waits for hugs from the grand babies.

The wreaths are on the windows and the tree is on the porch as well as the little trio of trees near the entrance. All that's left is to drape the garland and to be honest, I am waiting for a warmer day. We are just not accustomed to this cold weather here in the south, brrrrr!

From our house to yours,

Merry Christmas

and

Happy New Year!

Sunday Reflections

2010-12-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

"I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all he brings,

Risen with healing in his wings,

Mild he lays his glory by,

Born that we no more may die,

Born to raise us from the earth,

Born to give us second birth.

Hark the herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn king!"

-Charles Wesley

I am so thankful that the herald message was to all people and that it includes me and you even today.It is so wonderful to know that we don't have to worry about death and that we have been given a second birth.

Please join me at Spiritual Sundays

Kris Kringle and Friends...

2010-12-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

Today I want to share with you one of my lifes simple pleasures, my Kris Kringle and his friends. I painted him back in the 80's with a group of my friends and every time I bring him out it makes me smile, remembering the fun times we had. Some I still see today and others I have lost contact with as life sometimes gets in the way like that.

The center Santa I found at a little antique shop and the Woodsman Santa on the left I painted as well.

The wooden tray is a thrifting find from Hobby Lobby half price sale.

I am especially happy to be able to enjoy lifes pleasures after the way this week has played out. This

week has been really crazy. I started out Sunday with a visit to the emergency room for chest, left arm, left neck and back pains. Stress test and enzymes were normal. Thank you Lord.I was released Monday night with pain and cholesterol meds and advised to see my family doctor to schedule an x-ray and ultra sound of the neck for possible blockages. I will have those done tomorrow.

I am trying not to worry and remind myself that God is in control and that he that he is never surprised or taken off guard.

For the next day or two I plan to decorate less and enjoy the decorations you all share on your wonderful blogs. Thanks for stopping by.

P.S. I have not forgotten how to space and start new paragraphs but Blogger will not behave. Please excuse the format.

I'm joining Dayle's Simple Pleasures

Alphabe-Thursday

Junkin Finds Friday

Cindy's Show and Tell

Be sure to visit and enjoy lots of fun creative posts.

Sunday Reflections

2010-12-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

There has only been one Christmas... the rest are anniversaries.

I read this this week and it really stuck with me. Why had I not ever thought of Christmas that way? I know there would be no Christmas without God's precious gift but I never thought that all of our Christmases are anniversaries.To me it makes it even more special. One Christmas so many years ago and we are continuing to celebrate the anniversary today.

Our world has changed so much since His birth. Generations have come and gone. Science has progressed at rocket speed. Things that man could not even imagine in His time have come to be part of our everyday lives and yet we continue to celebrate The Birth, the precious gift of God's own Son.

I shamefully realized I need to stop hurrying and rushing around, making lists and worrying about getting all of my "important" things done and just bask in the fact that I have already received the greatest gift mankind will ever receive. It's amazing, sometimes God can humble me with one little sentence.

Linking to Spiritual Sundays Drop by for wonderful uplifting posts.

Joyful Christmases, Past and Present...

2010-12-02T23:01:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I am so glad to finally get back to blogland! I have really missed y'all. I am trying to catch up on all of the wonderful things you all have been doing and have decided I will just have to give up sleep from now until the first of the year to do everything I want to do!
Isn't this just the most wonderful, joyous time of the year? I seem to turn into a child at Christmas time. In all honesty, my family probably thinks I am a child more often than that but what are rose colored glasses for anyway if you aren't going to use them"?

I got my skinny tree up in the family room and it just makes the room glow.

Tiny little vintage cherubs adorn the tree reminding me of Christmases past.

This little fellow will be joined by other bear friends as Christmas draws near. Unfortunately Skipper likes them too so it is easier to leave them out only for a very limited time for the grand babies to enjoy.

I will be adding other pictures as I dig in my mountain of boxes. I really need to weed out some things but it is so hard to let go of Christmas things.Each box brings back a rush of memories of Christmases past.

I posted this thrifty find earlier. When I saw it I knew it would be perfect for my cloche that I had found on another junking trip.

I added these silver glitter balls and it is temporarily resting on the island. It will be going to the beach condo where the decorations are pretty much all white. I love how it looks but it has caused me a big problem...

every time I walk by it it reminds me of those delicious sugar doughnut holes from Dunkin Doughnuts and I head straight to raid the refrigerator.

Maybe I should replace it with a Santa or something... because I have NO will power!

I'm so glad you dropped by please come back again. In the meantime I can't wait to sit and read more of your posts I have missed. Think I'll get a snack and read a while... two of my favorite addictions, sweets and reading my blogs!

Linking this post to Jenny Matlock for Alphabe- Thursday
Colorado Lady for Vintage Thingie Thursday
Junkin Finds with Linda

Thanksgiving Medley -Sunday Reflections

2010-11-20T17:14:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of my friends in blog land a Happy Thanksgiving Week! Just pausing to remember that he is responsible for All our blessings and without Him we would have and be nothing.

May the Lord keep you safe in your travels near and far and those staying home and in all lands, Bless you all. Annette

Please join me at http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/ for Spiritual Sundays

It's finally here...

2010-11-16T16:47:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember I posted here that I had taken my oxblood Dansko's to match something I was going to purchase... well I am so happy it has arrived. But first let me show you what it is replacing

this uuugly floral sofa and loveseat!

Let me share a few tips from the" learned the hard way ole' soul"

1.Never buy a sofa when you're bone tired from looking.

2. Never give your old sofa away until the new one is in route... and

3.Never say it's not what I want but I can make it work.

I just spent five years of my life hateing this furniture everyday!

The sleeper had never been slept on and it was good as new or should I say "ugly as new."

This thing was indistructible... I know, I tried!

Finally here it is... my red leather suit.

It looks brown in the photo but in real life it is a rich, oxblood red color.

The love seat is closer to the real color.

I found this fabric to make pillows and rod covers for the doors and windows

for seven dollars a yard.

After cleaning all of the cobwebs behind the sofa and chasing away dust bunnies,
I did get in a little thrifting. I found this cute cottage at Goodwill for $3 and this little
vintage stocking for $1

I'm using them at the condo as it is decorated primarily in white vintage.

Thanks for dropping by and y'all come on back.

Linking to the following parties, come join in the fun
Nifty Thrifty Tuesdays
Rednesday
Junkin Finds

Sunday Reflections

2010-11-13T19:01:00.000-08:00

Flickr -Leo Reynolds

Sing... to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything.

Ephesians 5:19-20

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching we think of giving thanks for our many blessings. It is good to be thankful at Thanksgiving but we should be thankful all of the time.

No matter what the source of the evil confronting you, if you are in God and completely surrounded by Him, realize that it has passed through Him before coming to you. Because of this, you can thank Him for everything that comes your way. This does not mean thanking Him for the sin that accompanies evil, but offering thanks for what he will bring out of it and through it. May God make our life one of continual thanksgiving and praise, so He will then make everything a blessing.

Exerpt from Streams in the Desert

I am linking to Spiritual Sundays Drop by for lots of uplifting posts.

Simple Pleasures

2010-11-12T08:46:00.000-08:00

When I think of life's simple pleasures our fur baby is one of the first things that comes to mind.

He is a 18 month old shih-tzu, and his name is Skipper.

He radiates love, unconditional love. God's little creatures are gifts to us from God.

They not only provide us with companionship, joy and laughter

they are a constant reminder of God's unconditional love for us.

I just recently finished reading And Thereby Hangs a Tale a gift from a dear friend.

The author, David Teems, uses his dogs as powerful images of devotion to give you a glimpse of what a devoted life really looks like.

"A dog makes devotion look as if it is the best part of life."

It is filled with lots of sweet lessons for living a Christian life.

I am linking this post to

Simple Pleasures at A little of this and that blogspot

Go visit and check out all the other simple pleasures.

Some Vintage Goodies

2010-11-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

Before heading to the coast I stopped in at a seasonal thrift shop in town and found what I have been searching for all year... the perfect little vintage coastal print! It was in a yucky gold paper over wood frame. I know, I am just too impulsive to take my before pictures but trust me it looked bad.
I painted the frame with white Rustoleum and it did the trick. I couldn't wait to get it to the condo.

It is such a sweet little print. It makes me smile every time I look at it.

I know Thanksgiving has not come yet but I am decorating the condo for Christmas. I will not be back down until after Thanksgiving and time will be so limited I decided to go ahead and start Christmas decorating now.

I'm sure it's going to blow my mind next week when I go home and start putting turkeys all over the house.

These are some of the goodies I found at the Goodwill and thrift stores over the summer.

This teddy bear was just sitting there waiting for me to take him home.

I found three Santas on different trips this summer and re-painted them all white.

I didn't repaint the facial features. Their original owners did a great job on them and painting eyes is not one of my strong points. The one on the right was painted red, green and purple!
He's much more neutral now.

I was so excited when I found this little toile plate at the Goodwill. It is New England Toile and it was priced at $2.50. I can't believe someone gave it away.

I love the little Victorian characters.

and finally...
one of my dumbest Goodwill purchases

I decided to stop at the Goodwill, on my way in to Myrtle Beach, Mr. Vintagesouthern was not happy but I promised I would only take a minute!
I spotted this little church up on the shelf as I hurried along. The roof color is what caught my eye. It is very unusual to find one with a robins egg blue roof.
Off course I grabbed it up and went on my way. I already had visions of it with my hutch here

Notice anything wrong?
You're right...
It's missing its' chimney!
I still did not notice it until I got it home and plugged it in. The light was shining out this hole in the roof, aargh!
Note to self, make appointment with optometrist in the morning.

I am open to any "construction" ideas for my little church. It is such a sad little thing.
Glad you dropped by and y'all come on back!

Linking this post to

Rednesday as Suelovescherries blogspot

VintageThingyThursday at Coloradolady blogspot
Junkin Finds at alacarte blogspot
Cindy's Show and Tell at Romantic home blogspot

Sunday Reflections

2010-11-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

Country Church Sevierville, Tenn
Mary and her camera - Flickr

I saw this cute little country church and I found myself thinking of generations past, simpler times and how our lives are so very different today. We have all of the modern day conveniences and technology that past generations could not even imagine and yet our lives are more hurried, stressed and hectic than ever. We have so many things to distract us from our tasks and even from His plan for us.

How can we deal with these distractions?

Distractions happened all the time in Jesus ministry. The difference in the way he handled distractions and the way we do is that he just worked the distractions right into the main focus of his life! He didn't see them as distractions but opportunities.

Matthew 19:13-15

Some children were brought to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. The disciples told them not to bother him. But Jesus said "Let the children come unto me.Don't stop them!For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these." And he put his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left.

How can God use distractions?

Exodus 3:1-4

One day Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law,Jethro...Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared to him as a blazing fire in a bus. Moses was amazed because the bush was engulfed in flames, but it didn't burn up..."Why isn't that bush burning up? I must go over to see this." When the Lord saw that he had got Moses attention, God called to him from the bush.

Moses was just out on an ordinary day doing his ordinary job.God used the bush, a definite distraction to get his attention.

Acts 9:3-4

As he was nearing Damascus on his mission, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?"

God can use distractions to refocus our sights on his ways, distracting us from our ways. Paul was on his mission to persecute Christians when God got his attention with a distraction that was even harder to ignore than Moses' burning bush and changed the course of his whole life ( and the lives of many others to this day)

A promise from God...

Hebrews 12:13

Mark out a straight path for your feet.Then those who follow you though they are weak and lame,will not stumble and fall but will become strong.

Lord, help me to stay on a straight path with my eyes always on you. Help me use the distractions that come my way for your good and ignore the ones that can not be used for your glory. Dear God, give me the wisdom to see and understand the difference.

Linking to Spiritual Sundays Please drop by and visit for many inspiring posts

A little of this and a little of that...

2010-11-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been so hectic I am just now getting to the things that happened in my life LAST week. I think I need a "do over". Do you ever feel that way?
Saturday we went to The Enchanted Forest in Greenville for some treats and lots of fun. I don't know who had more fun me or the grandbabies.

Grandbaby #Two went as a cute little pink poodle.

Grandbaby # One went as Superman.

We said,"hold your baby sister." ... guess we should have been more specific.

It's not as dangerous as it looks. The camera just caught that second. He really is a good big brother and helps mom and dad take care of little "sisa!."

There were lots of story book characters in the Enchanted Forest.

Earlier in the week I felt like I was in an Enchanted Forest when I visited one of my favorite

antique malls...

I was so excited when I spotted this cute little pitcher.

It is a lamp.I had been looking for one for my kitchen. I wanted a silver teapot and may have to make my own lamp later but this one will do for now.... after all, you can never have too many lamps or pitchers, right???

Please ignore the electric cord. Cords are often a decorating challenge for me. Any ideas on how to hide them on a kitchen counter and island? I seriously could use some help with this.

moving on...

I also scored these little vintage Christmas ornaments.I plan to use them at the condo.

The faces are painted with such cute detailed expressions.

and finally

After about my 100th visit to a store I went home and got these to take back with me to the store.

No,Your computer has not bit the dust and you do not need your eyes checked.It is just what it looks like. My red (oxblood) Dansko and a red tie-back. I used them to match a color on a purchase I finally made today.
Any guesses???
I'm suppose to get it tomorrow.

I'll be back with a picture when it arrives.

Glad you stopped by. Hope you have a great evening and y'all come on back!

I'm linking to these great parties. Go visit for lots of fun!

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

2nd time around

Rednesday with Sue

Vintage Thingy Thursday

Junkin Finds
Show and Tell

Sunday Reflections

2010-10-30T20:26:00.001-07:00

Flickr - Muffett

What to do when nothing seems to be going right...

Wait for the Lord's help. Be strong and brave and wait for the Lord's help. Psalm 27:14

I find rest in God; only He gives me hope. Psalm 62:5

But the people who trust the Lord will become strong again. They will rise up as eagles in the sky; they will run and not need rest; they will walk and not become tired. Isaiah 40:31

Let us hold firmly to the hope that we have confessed, because we can trust God to do what he promised.

Hebrews 10:23

Linking to Spiritual Sunday Go visit for many uplifting posts.

Pumpkin Party

2010-10-26T18:29:00.000-07:00

I am excited about joining the pumpkin party. When I taught, I always did a pumpkin theme and we had such fun!
Some of these photos have been posted before but some are new.

We have pumpkins on the door ...

pumpkins in the kitchen ...

pumpkin in the dining room ...

Pumpkins on the mantel ...

pumpkins in the foyer...

pumpkins in the family room...

pumpkins in the tray ...

pumpkins on the porch ...

and pumpkins on Skipper.

The plan was to let Skipper wear his cute little pumpkin head band but he ate it! See what I have to live with!
He really is a keeper even if he doesn't like photo shoots.

Linking to Beth's Pumpkin Party.
Cindy's Show and Tell Friday

Sunday Reflections

2010-10-23T16:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got some bad news about my mom's health. Today I had set myself up for a big ole' pity party. What would I do? Where were we headed? How much should I tell her? How was I going to fix this? The questions were pouring in at lightening speed.Although I had prayed about this situation for some time before these last tests,I continued to feel the responsibility of "fixing" everything.

Then Exodus 20:12 came to my mind. Honor your father and your mother so that you may have a long life in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

This alone is my responsibility! I can't fix everything. HE has the plan. Nothing I do, can add or take away one single day from her appointed time or mine. I am to continue to pray for her and trust that he will keep his word that he has a plan for her and he does not make mistakes.
I also need to remember that he does not need any help of suggestions from my finite little brain. It is so good to know that the God of yesterday, today and tomorrow is still on the throne and still in charge.

My burden lifted, I went out to search for some beauty in the world He created. I snapped a picture of these beautiful Bartlett Pear trees.Although a cold winter is ahead of them they are proudly displaying a beautiful almost neon foliage.

Like the song says, "The God of the good times is still God in the bad times.God of the days is still God in the night."
My heart still hurts, but my pity party is over.

linking to Spiritual Sunday

Outdoor Wednesday

2010-10-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Amish country - Lancaster, Pennsylvania

For more Outdoor sites visit Outdoor Wednesday

Have a good day and y'all come back.

Fall Porch

2010-10-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Slowly but surely.....

I am getting my decorations done. Can anyone say Christmas?. It will be Christmas probably by the time I get finished! But I am having fun! I just added some simple twigs to an orange container to brighten the table on one end of the porch.

This little jack-o-lantern is smiling in anticipation of Halloween.

A couple of faux pumpkins and a fall bird house wait by the door. Now if I can only find my scarecrows to join them.

Another little table gets some fall tweaking.

I think I need to put the chaise to use.There's a chill in the air and the number of days for porch sitting are dwindling

If this post looks like it was written in another language, I have lost my reading contact in my eye! It feels like it has moved to the side, behind my eye. Any contact wearers out there... any ideas? It will be about 14 hours before my Drs. office opens.

It may be a long night!

Have a good week and y'all come on back.

I'm linking this post to :

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday at Coastal Charm
Tabletop Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life
Tuesday Train

Be sure and visit them.

Thrifty Fall Finds

2010-10-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

I know I said I was going to decorate with what I already have for fall

well, I lied!

I didn't mean to. That really was my plan.

I visited Goodwill and well you know the rest of the story ... these little dessert plates hopped right in my

cart when I passed by.

I love the little leaf detail.

This white pitcher followed right behind them.

The six dessert plates were only 2.25 with my ~~senior,~~ young and fiesty, discount.

The pitcher was the same. I love to use pitchers as floral vases, especially white ones.

I'm going to Try to not buy any more fall things. I think I jinxed myself

but

a relaxed day of bargain hunting and enjoying the season can be such fun!

Hope you all are enjoying this wonderful fall and y'all come on back.

I'm linking to Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Show and Tell Friday

Garage Salening Party
Thursdays Simple Pleasures

Fall Mantel

2010-10-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I pulled out a little more fall decorations and now have fall decorating boxes all over the guest bedroom and a big ole mess. I am making do with what I have....

I just got new pictures of the grand babies so I decided to work them in, lol. After all, they are my two little pumpkins.

And speaking of the grand babies we had the best time this week-end. We went to feed the ducks and explore. Where do they get all of that energy?

Glad you dropped by for a visit. Have a good week and y'all come back.

Linking to Southern Hospitality
Metamorphosis Monday

Sunday Reflections

2010-10-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

Do not fret. (Psalm37:1)

What does it mean to fret? It has been defined as that which makes a person rough on the surface causing him to rub himself and others away.

Isn't it true that an irritable, irrational and critical person not only wears himself out but is also very draining and tiring to others? When we worry and fret we are a constant annoyance. This Psalms not only says ... "do not fret because of evil men," but leaves no room for fretting whatsoever. It is very harmful and God does not want us to hurt ourselves or others.

Any physician can tell you that a fit of anger is more harmful to your system than a fever and that a disposition of continual fretting is not conducive to a healthy body. The next step down from fretting is being quick tempered and that amounts to anger. May we set it aside once and for all and simply be obedient to the command. "Do not fret.'
Streams in the Desert

Overheard in an orchard

Said the robin to the sparrow

"I should really like to know

Why these anxious human beings

Rush around and worry so."

Said the sparrow to the robin:

"Friend, I think that it must be

That they have no Heavenly Father

Such as cares for you and me."

Elizabeth Cheney

Linking to Spiritual Sundays

Inlett

2010-10-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Murrells Inlet is beautiful this time of year. The scorching heat and high humidity is gone

and there's just a gentle cool breeze in the air.

This little fellow kept a safe distance from us as we walked along the decking. He appeared unaware of us

but he kept edging away as we drew closer. Annoyed that we would not leave, he gave up and flew away.

Mr. Vintage keeps dreaming about a sailboat. My thinking is that would not be very wise as my

knowledge of boats is

1. They are fun to look at and 2.They float...... if your lucky!

and

3. If he is at the helm, who is going to bait my hook if I want to fish?

Thanks for stopping by and y'all come back!

I'm sharing at Watery Wednesday
and
Outdoor Wednesday

I have fallen into temptation

2010-10-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

I had decided to not do the fall decorations this year because things were so hectic around here . I WAS going to patiently wait and have fun doing Christmas....

well...

after seeing all of your gorgeous fall decorating, I pulled out the fall boxes from the attic.

I got the wreath hung on the door...

Next, I put a few things in the foyer.

My little pumpkin was a Goodwill find.

Tied a fall ribbon and glued a leaf on my bunnies to bring them into fall.

I will be continuing to pull from the boxes this week and post pictures. I keep hearing my mom's voice resonate in my ears... " if your friends jumped off of a cliff would you jump to?"

Seriously, thanks for the inspiration. I'm glad I decided to pull things out and play.

Have a good day and y'all come on back anytime.

I'm linking to Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Tabletop Tuesday

That's My King! - Sunday Reflections

2010-10-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

I was going to write a short script to go with this but this says it all.

Linking to Spiritual Sundays