Madeline's Album

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2012-02-14T05:00:00.001-06:00

Wishing everyone a very happy
and blessed Valentine's Day.

HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY

2012-02-02T05:00:00.001-06:00

I am hoping spring is just around
the corner.

WELCOME THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

"Freezing cold winds, biting chills,
and white snow fluffed hills. Valentines
day, oh how gay! President's day is
coming our way. February, sweet and
small, greatest month of all."
~Eric Lies~

DAUGHTERS AND SONS

2012-01-19T20:21:00.002-06:00

A daughter is the happy memories of the
past, the joyful moments of the present,
and the hope and promise of the future.
~Author Unknown~

Your son at five is your master, at ten your
slave, at fifteen your double, and after that,
your friend or your foe, depending on his
bringing up.
~Author Unknown~

I am very proud of my four children Debra,
Kenneth, Deann and Kara. They all are married
and have been blessed with wonderful families.
I pray every night that God will continue to
bless them and keep them safe. I want them
to know that I may have made mistakes while
bringing them up but in spite of that they all
have made me proud of them and what they
have accomplished.

SETTING SUN IN WINTER

2012-01-15T19:42:00.003-06:00

I am not the best picture taker. This is one I
took with the sun going down. It was a lot
prettier than this picture shows. Since I have
gotten older I appreciate every sunrise and
sunset the good Lord allows me to see.

FORSYTHIA BUSH AND WILD PERIWINKLE

2012-01-07T18:02:00.004-06:00

I know it is winter time, but my forsythia bush
believes it is spring time. The cold weather we
have had down into the 20's have not killed
these few blooms. The last few days it has warmed
up in the 60's during the day, so these few blooms
gave me a taste of spring.

Another sweet little spring time flower
is blooming also among the leaves,
my wild periwinkle has a few blooms on
them. Just a little touch of spring in
the winter time has brought a smile to
my face.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year Wish

My Happy New Year wish for you is for your
best year yet, a year where life is peaceful, and
what you want, you get.

A year in which you cherish the past year's
memories, and live your life each new day,
full of bright expectancies.

I wish for you a holiday with happiness galore;
and when it's done, I wish you Happy New Year,
and many more.
~Joanna Fuchs~

To all my relatives, friends, and
blogger friends. Happy New Year!
Sincerely Madeline

SNOWMEN

2011-12-31T08:11:00.021-06:00

All my Christmas decorations have been put
up for another year. Now I have my snowmen
collection out for the month of January. Pictured
above is a towel to wipe your hands on that my
daughter, Kara gave me a few years ago. Needless
to say I do not wipe my hands on it, it is just for
decoration.

Many of the snowmen I purschased at yard sales.
This is one of them.

More yard sales finds. These little one line my

ledge over my kitchen sink area.

This basket was given to me and for the life of

me I can not remember who gave it to me. The

2 cute little snowmen are more yard sale finds.

Another yard sale find.

This I also got at a yard sale many years ago.

The hand painted tin can was given to me by

my daughter-in-law, the snowman is another

yard sale find.

The tea set is and mugs are another yard sale
find as is the cute snowman in the background,
which is one of my favorites.

This snowman was given to me by my daughter, Deann.

Another yard sale find.

Daughter, Deann, gave me these cute snowmen.

Bought this cute snowman years ago.

Another of my yard sale finds.

This crystal snowman is another yard sale find.

Tin snowman sits on my kitchen counter top. Another
yard sale find

The top snowman made of tin the bottom one is a stuffed one and yes they are more yard sale finds.

The tin snowman on top is a birdhouse, the bottom one is another stuffed one both are yard sale finds.

More yard sale finds.

The snowman in the background holds a
tea candle . I hope you have enjoyed seeing
my collection and that I have not bored you.
Have a blessed day this last day in 2011.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

2011-12-25T05:00:00.000-06:00

To all my relatives, friends and blogging friends

here is my wish for you:

"May you have the gladness of Christmas which

is hope; the spirit of Christmas which is peace;

the heart of Christmas which is love."

~Ada V. Hendricks~

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Sincerely Madeline

WELCOME THE FIRST DAY OF WINTER

2011-12-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

"On the first day of winter, the earth awakens
to the cold touch of itself.
Snow knows no other recourse except this
falling, this sudden letting go over the small
gnomed bushes, all the emptying trees.
Snow puts beauty back into the withered and
malnourished, into the death-wish of nature
and the deliberate way winter insists on nothing
less than deference. Waiting all its life, snow
says, "Let me cover you."
~Laura Lush~

PUMPKIN COOKIES

2011-12-20T08:59:00.003-06:00

If you like soft cookies you need to try these

pumpkin cookies. I really think you will like

them.

Pumpkin Cookie Recipe

2 cups shortening

2 cups sugar

1 can pumpkin

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

2 cups raisins

1 cup chopped walnuts

Cream shortening and sugar. Add pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla;

beat well. Stir together flour, next 6 ingredients, add to batter;

mix well. Stir in raisins and nuts. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls

2 inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees

for 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on rack. Makes 7 dozen cookies.

Happy baking.

ENJOYING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

2011-12-09T10:38:00.002-06:00

Decorations all up, packages wrapped
and under the tree, Christmas cards
and packages mailed and all the goodies
that I give to relatives and friends all
baked. Now all I have to do is enjoy
the rest of the time until Christmas is
here. On Christmas day I will enjoy
the members of my family that will be
here to celebrate this blessed day.

PEARL HARBOR -- DECEMBER 7TH

2011-12-07T08:03:00.005-06:00

Today is the 70Th anniversary of the
bombing of Pearl Harbor. I was
only 5 years old when this happened.
My dad who fought in WWI wanted
to go once again and serve his country
but because of his having a family they
would not take him. His brother did
join up and fought in WWII. I remember
the rationing books, saving the tin foil
from chewing gum and the flags that
hung in the windows of the families that
had loved ones fighting in the war. I honor
all the service men and women who help
keep this country free. God Bless America.

OUTSIDE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

2011-12-04T19:30:00.005-06:00

Pictured above and below are some of my
outside Christmas decorations. This is my
storage house that I keep all my decorations
stored. The little Santa's and deer are some
of the wood craft that my husband and I did
when we were in the craft business.

More wood craft that we did when we were
in the craft business.

This is my little house that I keep my garden

tools and material stored. My husband built

it for me. I love decorating it for the different

holidays.

Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus have a special
place. The real reason for the season of Christmas.

The snowman was a gift from my daughter,

Debbie, a few years ago. The two little deers

are yard sale finds. I purchased the candy canes

after Christmas last year at a very good price.

They line my walk way in front of the house.

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

2011-12-02T18:22:00.008-06:00

I have gotten all my Christmas decorations
put up. I want to share with you
some of my trees. I have one in
every room of the house ranging
in size for 2 foot to 6 foot. Pictured
above is my newest tree it has clear lights with gold ornaments, gold and white
garland and a crochet white angle for
the tree topper. This tree is in my
Victorian living room.

This tree is in my great room, It has
colored lights and the ornaments
are ones the children and given me
plus ornaments with pictures of all
my grandchildren and great grandchildren
decorating the tree.

This is my silver aluminum
pom-pom tree. It was one
of my yard sale finds a few
years ago. It has the color
wheel. This tree is in my computer room.

Another yard sale find.

This 4 foot tree is in

my little room off the

kitchen.

This tree is in my bedroom.

It has clear lights and is

decorated with purple ornaments

and white and lavender ribbon

garland.

This is a gift from my son and

his wife. It is a Christmas gift

for this year but they gave it to

me early so I could display it

with all my other decorations.

They thought since I bake

gingerbread cookies every year

for everyone I needed a gingerbread

house. It lights up and I think it

is so cute. I love it.

WELCOME MONTH OF DECEMBER

2011-12-01T05:00:00.001-06:00

"I heard a bird sing in the dark of December
a magical thing and sweet to remember.
'We are nearer to spring then we were in
September,' I heard a bird sing in the dark
of December."
~Oliver Herford~

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY KARL

2011-11-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

Wishing my husband a very happy
anniversary. 57 years. I hope God
will continue to bless us with many
more. Love you with all my heart.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-24T05:00:00.000-06:00

I want to wish my family, relatives,

friends, and by blogger friends a

very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.

May God continue to bless each and

everyone of you.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY DEANN AND BRIAN

2011-11-23T05:00:00.000-06:00

Wishing my daughter, Deann and
her husband, Brian a very Happy
Anniversary. Twenty years, may
you have many many more. Love
you.

FALLING LEAVES

2011-11-16T10:29:00.006-06:00

This is what my front yard looks like now with
almost all the leaves off the trees . I am hoping
when my family comes for Thanksgiving they
will take pity on us and come back and help
rake and clean up the yard. There are still some
trees that have a lot of leaves on them.

More of the yard that needs raking. We have

over 2 acres and have a lot of oak trees so in the

fall we have quite a lot of leaves.

As you can see some trees in the front yard have

lots of leaves left on them.

Trees in the back of our house that have lost

all their leaves.

VETERANS DAY

2011-11-11T05:00:00.001-06:00

Freedom is not free

There is a price we pay for freedom
for it is not truly free but rather paid
by contributions of veterans to buy
our liberty
As their blood drains from their body
and runs like a river through the grass
Over the years it's forgotten, was is
placed in our past.
I don't think we all realize the importance
veterans play as they voluntarily serve
America each and every day.
We should honor the veterans for they
act like a shield protecting us from danger,
keeping America healed. So if you would
take a second to commemorate you will
instantly see we owe veterans our gratitude
for they are the reason we are free.
~Ashley Persyn~

God bless all our service men and

women who serve to keep us free.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2011-11-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

Two of my daughters and their husbands
are celebrating anniversaries today. Debra
and Bob and Kara and Alex. Have a great
day and may you have many more anniversaries.
Love you all.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOGAN

2011-11-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

Here's wishing my grandson, Logan,
a very happy birthday. Eleven years
old and in a couple of years you will
be a teenager. Hope your day is full
of fun. Love you.

VISIT WITH SOME OF THE FAMILY

2011-11-02T13:53:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a wonderful and great day. Our
grandson, Eric and his family (pictured above
on the left Ethan, sitting in rocker Eric who is
holding Aaron, Eric's wife Summer and last
but not least Abigail) came for a visit before they
leave to go back to Texas. Our daughters, Debra
and Deann and Deann's two boys were here also.
We had a wonderful visit and we got to meet our
newest member of the family Aaron who is 4 months
old.

This is Aaron, he was so good while he was
here. He smiles all the time a very happy boy.

HAPPY MONTH OF NOVEMBER

2011-11-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

"November comes and November goes,
with the last red berries and the first
white snows.

With night coming early and dawn
coming late, and ice in the bucket
and frost by the gate.

The fires burn and the kettles sing,
and earth sinks to rest until next spring."

~Elizabeth Coatsworth~

Have a wonderful month

of November.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-31T05:00:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Time

Pumpkin time is here again,
time to play Trick or Treat.
Pumpkin time is here again,
our spooky friends we'll meet.

See the costumes we have on,
monsters, ghosts, goblins too.
See the costumes we have on,
Hear us all shout "BOO!"
~Author Unknown~

FALL IS HERE

2011-10-27T09:39:00.006-05:00

You can tell when fall is here when the fires
are burning and leaves cover the ground.

Would you believe that just yesterday this part

of the yard was all raked clean. Now look at it.

Just some of the fall colors here in central Alabama.

Some of the fall colors on our property.

More fall colors on our property.

The fall colors to me are just beautiful. This

October has been nice here in central Alabama,

cool mornings but nice warm afternoons. My

husband and I enjoy working out in the yard

when the weather is this nice.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LISA

2011-10-26T05:00:00.001-05:00

Wishing my daughter-in-law, Lisa
a very happy birthday. May your
day be filled with joy and love. Love
you.

PICNIC AT PALISADES PARK

2011-10-17T14:10:00.006-05:00

It is another beautiful day here in Pinson, Alabama.
My husband and I decided to go on a picnic.
We ended up a Palisades Park one of our
favorite places to go. The day was warm with
a little breeze not a cloud in the sky. We ate and
then walked around the park enjoying the beautiful
day. The photo above was taken just before we got
to the park.

A close up of the same picture as above.

The entrance to the park was decorated with

mums and pumpkins.

This was some hanging Halloween things in

front of the mums and pumpkins.

More pretty mums at the entrance to the park.

Click on picture to enlarge.

LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST

2011-10-16T09:22:00.002-05:00

Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice
the bumble bee, the small child, and the
smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel
the wind. Live your life to the fullest
potential, and fight for your dreams.
~Author Unknown~
Have a blessed day and a great life.
~Madeline~

PRAYING MANTIS

2011-10-14T09:45:00.002-05:00

When I was cleaning the house, sweeping the floors,
I came across this fellow. I first thought it was
a stick but then I saw his or her legs move. I
carefully scooped him up on some paper and
placed it outside. I hope I did not harm him
while sweeping the floor. All of Gods creature
are unique and although there are some I am
afraid of I try not to harm any of them.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADAM

2011-10-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my grandson, Adam, a

very Happy Birthday. Sixteen

years old seems like just yesterday

you were a little toddler. Now here

you are old enough to get your drivers

license. I am so proud of all you have

accomplished. Keep up the good work

in school and continue to follow the path

God has for you. Love you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRIAN

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my son-in-law, Brian, a very
happy birthday. You have been a
wonderful son-in-law, always there
when we need you. You have been a
wonderful husband to our daughter
and a great father to 2 of our grandchildren.
Have a wonderful day and may the good
lord bless you with many more birthdays.
Love you.

AZALEAS, WILDFLOWERS AND ACORNS

2011-10-07T10:21:00.006-05:00

We take our lives in our hands when we go
outside. The acorns this year are the biggest
I seen, and when the wind blows they fall and
it sounds like gun shots when they hit the roof.
I have pictured them above compared to a quarter.

The fall wildflowers are all in bloom, this is
not a very good picture but this a purple
wildflower and it is quite pretty.

This is a pretty little yellow wild flower.

This is another purple flower that is fuzzy, It seems

like the wildflowers do real well .

These are my encore azaleas that bloom spring,

summer and fall. I even have some regular

azaleas with some blooms and they are susposed

to only bloom in the spring.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEANN

2011-10-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my daughter, Deann, a happy

birthday. You are always there when I

need you. You have grown from a small

sweet girl to a wonderful wife and mother.

I am so proud of you. Love you

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRISTOPHER

2011-10-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my grandson, Kristopher,
a very happy birthday. I have
watched you grow from a little boy
to the fine young man you have
become. Hope your day is filled with
lots of love. Love You.

HAPPY FIRST DAY OF OCTOBER

2011-10-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

"October's the month when the smallest
breeze gives us a shower of autumn
leaves. Bonfires and pumpkins, leaves
sailing down - October is red and
golden and brown."
~ Author Unknown~

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSEPH

2011-09-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my grandson, Joseph, a very happy
birthday. Wow you are now a teenager.
I am so proud of you. You are a very smart
and artistic young man. God bless you and
may he continue to lead you. Love you

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENNETH

2011-09-29T05:00:00.001-05:00

Wishing my son, Kenneth, a very happy
birthday. I have watched you grow from
a small child to the wonderful man you
have become. I am very proud of all you
have accomplished and your thoughtfulness
when your dad and I needed you. May God
bless you with many more years of happiness.
Love you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANT AND DRAKE

2011-09-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

I have two grandsons celebrating
their birthdays today. Grant
who is 22. I have watched you
grow from a boy into the fine
young man you have become.
Drake who is 9 and although I
do not get to see him that often
because he lives in Washington
State I know he is still my sweet
and loving boy. Wishing you
both a very happy birthday. Love
you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUMMER

2011-09-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

I want to wish my grandson's wife,
Summer, a very happy birthday.
May your day be filled with love and
joy. Love you

HAPPY FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN

2011-09-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

Autumn

When the trees their summer splendor
change to raiment red and gold,
when the summer moon turns mellow,
' and the nights are getting cold;
when the squirrels hid their acorns,
and the woodchucks disappear; then
we know that it is autumn, loveliest
season of the year.
~Charlotte L. Riser~

Wishing everyone

Sincerely Madeline

4 1/2 INCHES OF RAIN AND THE RESULTS

2011-09-20T15:45:00.005-05:00

The following photos are the results of what the
back of our property looks like after we get a
hard rain measuring 4 1/2 inches. The property
across the street was being developed then they
ran into trouble and went bankrupt. They had dug
a pond to hold the water which has filled up with
red mud and the result is that we get a deluge of
red water that nearly washes our bridges away.
It sounds like a raging river.
We needed the rain and I am thankful God
sent us some . I would love to see the clear
water running behind our house not this muddy
water.

You can see one of our bridges at the left of
this photo.

A better view of the bridge.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KARL

2011-09-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my husband, Karl, a very
happy birthday. For all you have
done in the years we've been married.
Have a wonderful day and know I love
you with all my heart.

FALL DECORATIONS

2011-09-14T17:59:00.021-05:00

I know that fall is still 9 days away and it is

still warm here but I had to get my fall decorations

out . Pictured above is front porch.

Another picture of front porch. Below is my

picket fence with fall leaves and welcome sign.

My little tool shed all decked out.
My storage house all decorated up.

Fall flag.

Bridge over what used to be my fish pond.

Another picture of fall flag on front porch.

Coffee table in great room.
Windows decorated with fall leaves I bought at the

dollar tree. Pictured below is cabinet with cling

ons and wash stand with large vase with fall

arrangment.

Fall arrangement in corner .

Table with fall runner, fall arrangement, pumpkins.

Basket with fall arrangment. The leaf on

window on right is one I made from some

craft foam I had.

Another fall arrangement and little wood pumpkins

I painted years ago.

Pumpkins and fall candles .
Arch way from kitchen eating area to little back

room.

Franklin stove with fall leaves . Victorian living room with fall arrangement on coffee table.

Fall arrangement in brass vase in entrance hall.

SEPTEMBER 11--PATRIOT DAY-- GRANDPARENTS DAY

2011-09-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Let us continue to remember all those

lost and the families they left behind on

this the anniversary of the terrible tragedies

that occurred on September 11, 2001. We

need not let our guard down keep a watchful

eye out so this does not happen again. GOD

BLESS AMERICA.

Happy Grandparents Day to all

you grandmothers and grandfathers

out there. Have a blessed day enjoy

your little grandchildren they grow

up so fast..

HAPPPY LABOR DAY

2011-09-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

Here's wishing everyone a
relaxing and safe Labor Day.

SPLASH PARK IN SPRINGVILLE

2011-09-04T09:43:00.008-05:00

After our daughter, Deann, her husband, Brian,
and their son Joseph left after a morning of
enjoying the pool (probably for the last time in
this year my husband and I took a ride up to
Springville to check out the new splash park they
have put in for the children to enjoy. We enjoyed
watching the children playing and getting water
splashed in the different ways picture below in the
following photos.

Flower and pelican doing their job of getting
the children wet.

Small children enjoyed this area where

water squirted up from the ground.

The flower squirted the children and the pelican

dumped water on waiting children.

I believe these are pelicans. It was a joy to see

the children having such fun.

The big container fills up with water then tilts

over to cascade down to really wet the kids waiting

below.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEYTON

2011-09-02T14:51:00.003-05:00

My youngest granddaughter, Peyton,
turns seven today. Wishing her a fun
and wonderful day. Pawpaw and I
love you .

WELCOME SEPTEMBER

2011-09-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

"When the goldenrod is yellow,
and leaves are turning brown -
reluctantly the summer goes
in a cloud of thistledown.

When squirrels are harvesting
and birds in flight appear -
by these autumn signs we know
September days are here."
~Beverly Ashour~

"By these lovely tokens September
days are here, with summers best of
weather and Autumn's best of cheer."
~Helen Hunt Jackson~

BEAUTIFUL MORNING

2011-08-28T09:17:00.002-05:00

It is a beautiful morning here in central
Alabama. Nice and cool almost like fall,
but I know it will get hot again as the day
goes on. I enjoyed part of my morning
sitting out on the swing in the front yard
reading a book. It was about World War II
written in the form of a diary. It was very
informative. Even though I have seen
movies and study about the war in high
school I thoroughly enjoyed it.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2011-08-23T09:02:00.003-05:00

I have two anniversaries to acknowledge.
First is to my son, Kenneth and his wife,
Lisa, 31 years. The second one is to my
grandson, Eric and his wife, Summer, 8
years. Wishing you a beautiful and blessed
day. Love you all.

KITCHEN CABINETS FINISHED

2011-08-20T17:42:00.009-05:00

My husband finished painting the kitchen
cabinets today. He did a great job. My kitchen
is small so it was sort of difficult to get photos.
The cabinets look nice and clean now and my
drawers and shelves are neat and I have gotten
rid of a lot of the clutter. I just hope they stay
that way. Thank you sweet husband for doing
this for me. Below are some more of the
photos I took.

PAINTING KITCHEN CABINETS

2011-08-11T13:37:00.002-05:00

My husband has started
to paint the kitchen cabinets.
It has been a while since they
have been painted and they
really need it. He is painting
them white like the last time.
I will have a mess for a while
but it will be worth it to have
clean white cabinets once again.
I have been helping with the
washing part, getting the grease
and grime off.

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR SOME KIDS

2011-08-08T08:44:00.003-05:00

Here it is only the eighth of August and
some schools here in Alabama are starting
today and some will start next week. When
I was going to school (many years ago) we
did not start until after Labor Day. That was
the end of summer, the public swimming
pool closed and we were ready to go back to
school. This was in California. I know my
grandkids in the state of Washington do not
start back until after Labor Day.

Keep an eye out of kids crossing the street and
getting on and off the school buses.

CANTALOUPE FROM GARDEN

2011-08-03T10:28:00.002-05:00

Along with the tomato plants that came up in

my flower garden this cantaloupe also grew. It

was ready to be picked this morning. It may be

small but I tested it after cutting it in half and it

was sweet and has a better taste than the ones I

have bought at the store. I wish there were more

on the vine but just this one grew oh well I will

enjoy it.

WELCOME AUGUST

2011-08-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

"Fairest of the months!
Ripe summer's queen
The hey-day of the year
With robes that gleam
With sunny sheen
Sweet August doth appear.
~R. Combe Miller~

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

2011-07-29T10:36:00.002-05:00

All things in life are temporary
If going well, enjoy it, they will
not last forever. If going wrong,
don't worry, they can't last long
either.

Have a great and blessed day.

NEWEST GREAT GRANDSON

2011-07-27T08:56:00.002-05:00

Introducing my newest great grandson,

Aaron Lee Armstrong. Isn't he cute. He

has an older brother,Ethan and sister,

Abigail. I wish they lived closer so I could

see more of them. I will have to wait until

Christmas to meet this little one.

GRANDKIDS AND GREAT GRANDKIDS ENJOYING THE POOL

2011-07-25T09:48:00.009-05:00

My grandsons girlfriend holding Abigail, my
great granddaughter, my granddaughter Julie
and great grandson Ethan swimming a race.

My son, Kenneth sitting and talking to granddaughter
Julie and great granddaughter Abigail. Penny my
daughter-in-laws dog was enjoying the pool also.

This is Ethan swimming down in the deep part
of the pool. He is taking swimming lessons and
is not afraid of the water at all. He jumped off
the diving board a good many times. We made
him wear his arm floats.

Grandson, Grant, great grandson , Ethan, Grants
girl friend holding great granddaughter, Abigail and
our grand daughter, Julie. They all had a great
time.

Julie and Ethan

We had a very nice visit and before they left

to go home daughter, Debra, took this picture

of my husband, myself, and the two sweet

great grandchildren Abigail and Ethan. They

have a new brother, Aaron, who did not come so we will

have to wait until Christmas to meet him. He

stayed home in Texas with his mom and dad.

TAKE TIME

2011-07-21T19:37:00.002-05:00

Take Time

Take time to think -
it is the source of power.
Take time to read -
it is the foundation of wisdom.

Take time to play -
it is the secret of staying young.
Take time to be quiet -
it is the moment to seek God.

Take time to be aware -
it is the opportunity to help others.
Take time to love and be loved -
it is God's greatest gift.

Take time to laugh -
it is the music of the soul.
Take time to be friendly -
it is the road to happiness.

Take time to dream -
it is what the future is made of.
Take time to pray -
it is the greatest power on earth.

~Author Unknown~

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIC

2011-07-19T08:30:00.002-05:00

Wishing my first born grandchild, Eric,
a very happy birthday. You have
grown into a fine young man and we
are very proud of all you have accomplished
so far in your life. Have a wonderful day.
Wish we could be there to help celebrate
this day with you. Love you.

YARD SALE FINDS

2011-07-12T10:01:00.003-05:00

This past Friday and Saturday husband and I
went to a few yard sales. Pictured above are
some of my finds. The two Christmas pillows
were only $1.00 each. I just love the Santa one.
The trays were all three for only 10 cents as was
the box next to the Santa pillow. Sunflower
arrangement in pot was only 50 cents. The
other arrangement was $2.00, the vase it is in
is one I have had. We found a few other things
but these were the best buys and I can use
them when I decorate for fall and Christmas.
I love going to yard sales especially when I
find goodies I can use. Click on picture to
enlarge.

COURT YARD VISITOR

2011-07-11T16:53:00.003-05:00

Late yesterday afternoon my husband told
me to get my camera and come outside to
see this turtle. It had dug a hole and we
thought it was going to lay eggs. I waited and
waited but nothing happened. I finally gave
up. I checked this morning the turtle was
gone but the hole was still there. It was not
covered over so I surmised it did not lay
any eggs.

INSTEAD--BY PAUL F. MALINOWSKI

2011-07-09T18:40:00.004-05:00

Instead

Instead of fretting over those things
you cannot control resolve to accept
that which is--let tranquility be your goal.

Instead of feeling sorry when a close
relationship ends go out and revel in
true joy of being among your friends.

Instead of feeling that in life's chain
you are just another link--realize that
your future is unbounded for you have
the ability...to think.

Instead of always griping about that
which you have not--why not say a prayer
each day to God for what you've got.
~Paul F. Malinowski~

SQUIRREL ROBBING THE BIRD FEEDER

2011-07-07T09:07:00.006-05:00

If you look close you can see the squirrel on
the red bird feeder. They get more feed then
the birds do. The squirrel on the ground is
content to eat the feed off the ground. I love
to watch them but wish they would stay away
from my bird feeders. Click on photo to enlarge.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

2011-07-04T05:00:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone will have a safe

and fun fourth of July. Please

remember who keeps this country

safe for us to enjoy this holiday.

WELCOME THE MONTH OF JULY

2011-07-01T05:00:00.002-05:00

JULY
July is light blue the color of the sky.
July feels like a long vacation in the sun.
It sounds like waves splashing alone the
beach. July smells like my birthday cake
It taste like chocolate ice-cream. July
is the best month of the year.
~Gurpiar Sidhu~

ANOTHER GREAT GRANDCHILD

2011-06-28T15:15:00.004-05:00

I am so proud to announce the birth of
my third great grandchild. Aaron Lee born
today at 12:29 this afternoon 7lbs 6 oz, 19
inches long. Mom, baby and dad all doing
well. He has an older brother, Ethan, and
sister, Abigail. As soon as I receive a photo
of Aaron I will post it.

TEA SET

2011-06-25T18:11:00.002-05:00

My husband and I went to some yard sales
today. Pictured above is just one of our finds.
When I saw this tea set I knew it would go
in my Victorian room and I sure was right. We
also found or at least I did some more things
to use in my decorating for different holidays.
A 6 foot white prelit Christmas tree, fall
scarecrows , pumpkin place mats, silk poinsettias,
Easter dishes, stuffed Easter bunny, and a
Christmas kitchen towel new never been used.
Oh yes and two boxes of Christmas ornaments and
I mean two large boxes with all kinds of ornaments.
I just love it when I come home with great finds at
reasonable prices.

TOMATO PLANTS AND ZINNIAS

2011-06-22T08:51:00.002-05:00

This was supposed to be my flower bed but
as you can see I have mostly tomato plants
and a few flowers (zinnias). The tomato plants
came up by themselves. They have some
green tomatoes on them and hopefully I will
get some nice juicy, red tomatoes soon.

HAPPPY FIRST DAY OF SUMMER

2011-06-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

"That beautiful season the summer!
Filled was the air with a dreamy and
magical light; and the landscape lay
as if new created in all the freshness
of childhood."
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow~

I hope everyone's summer is a good
one and a safe one.

ENJOYING THE POOL

2011-06-20T18:52:00.003-05:00

My daughter, Deann, and her youngest came

over today to enjoy the pool. They try to come

over a least twice a week. The photo is of

Joseph. His older brother did not come because

he volunteers at the Gardendale library but

does come when he is not volunteering at the library

or the zoo. Joseph also volunteers at the

library. I too have been getting some swimming

in. With the hot weather we have been having

it is very refreshing to just float around after I

do a few laps. I love watching the clouds float by

up in the sky, listening to the birds, watching

dragonflies and other creatures and just being in

the outdoors makes me closer to God.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

2011-06-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

Here's wishing my husband, son, 3
son-in-laws, grandson and anyone
else who is a father a very Happy
Father's Day. Hope your day is a
loving one.

RAIN-BEAUTIFUL RAIN

2011-06-17T16:47:00.003-05:00

We got some badly needed
rain today. My lawn, flowers,
and bushes look so much
better. Thanking God for
sending the rain we needed.
I now will be able to walk
on my lawn and it not crunch
under my feet when I do.
My rain gage measured 2
inches. I will not have to
water my plants tonight.

HAPPY FLAG DAY

2011-06-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

Cheers for the sailors that fought on
the wave for it, cheers for the soldiers
that always were brave for it, tears
for the men that went down to the
grave for it. Here comes the flag.
~Arthur Macy~

I hope everyone that has a flag will
display it proudly not only on Flag Day
but all year long.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEBRA

2011-06-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wishing my first born daughter, Debra, a
very happy birthday. Hope you have a
day filled with love and joy. Love you lots
Mom

CROCHET LAP COVERS FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS

2011-06-02T10:39:00.004-05:00

I finally finished my lap covers for wheelchair

users. I used up all my thread. I was able to

crochet eight of them. I gave them to my daughter,

Deann, and she will take them to a nursing home.

Click on picture to enlarge.

WELCOME THE MONTH OF JUNE

2011-06-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

"June is the month of dreams, I think;

Gardeners watch their roses, pink.

Birds leave the nest and try their wings

And songbirds learn just how to sing.

Brides have planned for the perfect day

When to their love their vows will say.

June is a month of graduations; proud

parents give congratulations.

The birth of baby girls and boys makes

us look at tiny toys.

First communions are realized; decisions

taken to change lives.

Recitals seem to be everywhere; dancing

and music is in the air.

June is the month to sing your joy--The

month of dreams for you to enjoy."

~Joan Adams Burchell~

HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE MEMORIAL DAY

2011-05-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

Let us remember all the
men and women who gave
their all for our freedom and
pray for those who have served
and those that are serving now.
I am proud to say that my dad
served in the army during the first
world war, my uncle served in the
the army during the second world
war, my husband served in the
army during the Korean war, my
brother was in the navy as were
many of my cousins. Those that
are still with us I thank you from
the bottom of my heart.

WILD OAK HYDRANGEA

2011-05-28T08:09:00.003-05:00

I have many of these wild oak hydrangeas bushes
on my property. They are very pretty this
year. I believe the blooms are the biggest I
have seen them. The wild bushes and flowers
seem to do better here than do the tame ones.

TOMATOES AND FLOWERS

2011-05-25T09:56:00.003-05:00

This was supposed to be a flower garden but

as you can see from the above pictures it has

turned into a nice tomato garden. My husband

filled the flower garden with dirt from his

compost pile and to my susprise after I planted

some flower seeds these tomato plants started

coming up. I just left them to see what they would

do and I now have a flower and vegetable garden.

THANK YOU ALL WHO SERVE

2011-05-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

On this day set aside to thank all men

and women who are serving or have

served to protect our freedom we need

to thank them from the bottom of our

hearts. I pray God will keep them safe.

RED, WHITE AND BLUE YARD DECORATIONS

2011-05-19T11:30:00.016-05:00

My red, white and blue light sticks, I purchased
at Home Depot a few years ago.

I always have a flag flying all year . My door

decoration was a yard sale find.

This is a picket fence I did up years ago. Husband

cut the pieces and I painted them. When the 4th

of July gets close I have a painted sign I attach to

it saying happy 4th of July.

Eagle flag hanging on fence.

One of my craft project.

Another one of my craft projects.

My little house decorated with Uncle Sam's and

flags.. I will probably add red, white and blue

ribbon or something around the post when I

get a chance to go buy some.

Another craft project.

One windsock

My Uncle Sam windsock.

Another flag and windsock.

Proud to be American small flag in my flower

garden.

The Uncle Sam is another one of my craft

projects of many years ago a little worst for

wear but I like the worn look.
I love my door wreath another yard sale find.

Hope I haven't bored you with all my decorations.

I am and always will be very patriotic. Oh that

is my reflection I should have been wearing my

patriotic outfit.

RED, WHITE AND BLUE

2011-05-18T14:02:00.017-05:00

With Armed Forces Day this Saturday, Memorial
Day the 30th of this month, then in June Flag day
and in July comes the 4th. I am all decked out
with red, white and blue decorations inside my
house and in my yard. I am posting pictures of
my inside decorations today and will post the yard
ones later.

This is a tin flag basket with flags and 2 candles,
all bought at yard sales.

This stuffed bear has many sweaters for different

holidays. The star box has a patriotic Santa. More

yard sale finds

This sweet Victorian bear is one my daughter,

Deann, gave me.

Wood Uncle Sam another yard sale find.

More flags and the statue of Lady of Liberty is

a lenox piece yes another find at a yard sale.

Red, white and blue candle and a tin plaque

that can be hung on the wall but I like to use

it in a brass holder. More yard sales finds.

Paper hat and one of four place mats.

I have eight of these decorations. They can be

hung or used like you see here. More yard sale

finds.

Tin umbrella holder .

I just love these liberty bears and the patriotic

rocking chair. Yes more of my yard sale finds.

More yard sale finds. These cute patriotic

eagles.

I have many vases with flags and red, white and

blue flowers sitting around. The flag tray is one

I found at a yard sale.

More yard sale finds, cloth place mat, small

eagles and vase with flags and red, white and

blue flowers.

All most all of my decoration have been found at

yard sales. This runner and decorations are no

exception In the back ground is just one of my

beanie baby patriotic bears. Some people think

I go overboard in decorating but I love doing it

and as long as I am able I will continue doing it.

MAKES EVERYTHING WORTH WHILE

2011-05-16T12:38:00.003-05:00

The last few days have been a little dreary.

A bit cool for this time of year with some rain.

But even on a cloudy day a little bit of sunshine

can come your way. I received this note and

art work from my youngest granddaughter, Peyton,

who is in kindergarten. It brought a smile to my

face. Grandchildren are wonderful. Click on

pictures to enlarge.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2011-05-08T05:00:00.001-05:00

"Happy Mother's Day" means more
than have a happy day. Within
those words lie lots of things we
never get to say.

It means I love you first of all,
then thanks for all you do. It means
you mean a lot to me, and that I
honor you.

But most of all, I guess it means that
I am thinking of your happiness on this,
your day, with pleasure and with love.
~Author Unknown~

Wishing all the mothers, grandmothers,
and step mothers a happy and blessed
Mother's Day.

PLANTED A FEW FLOWERS

2011-05-06T17:35:00.005-05:00

I went to Lowes and bought some impatiens to

put in some of my flower pots. Pictured above

are just a few of the pots I planted them in.

Since we have a lot of shade they do very well.

WELCOME THE MONTH OF MAY

2011-05-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

"Sweet May hath come to love us, flowers, trees,
their blossoms don; and through the blue heavens
above us the very clouds move on."
~Heinrich Heine~

TORNADOES

2011-04-28T18:16:00.002-05:00

By the grace of God we were spared the
destruction that many places in Alabama experienced.
My three children you live here are all ok
as are my husband and I. They have
been showing all the terrible destruction
on the news channels today it is unbelievable.
brings tears to my eyes. We got a lot of rain
and wind we did not lose power but did lose
our cable and inter net for part of the day. My
daughter, Deann, is still without power and my
other daughter, Debra, had one tree that fell
but did not damage the house. My son said
they had a tornado close took trees down but
did not damage their house. Please remember
the ones that have lost loved ones and their homes
Thank you.

HAPPY EASTER

2011-04-24T05:00:00.001-05:00

The Easter Feeling

The Easter feeling does not end. It signals a
new beginning, of nature, spring, and brand
new life, and friendship, peace, and giving. The
spirit of Easter is all about Hope, Love, and
Joyful living.
~Author Unknown~

Easter is the Gift

Easter is the gift of Hope
Easter is the gift of Peace
Easter is the gift of Love
Let us rejoice in Him, who
gives them all.

May God bless you at Easter, and keep you
all year through. May God give you all the
faith it takes to make your dreams come true.
May His love and wisdom always help to
guide you on your way. May his light shine
down upon you now, to Bless your Easter Day.
~Author Unknown~

ANOTHER AFGHAN

2011-04-23T17:40:00.004-05:00

This is the afghan I made for my sister-in-law,
Gwen, it has been finished for sometime but
I did not want to post the picture until I gave
it to her. I spent most of the day with her today
and was able to give it to her. It is done in an
off white thread. She really did like it. I am now
working on some for people you use wheelchairs.
I have five done and am on number six. When I
get them done I will post pictures of them. Click
on picture to enlarge.

HAPPY EARTH DAY

2011-04-22T08:02:00.003-05:00

Have a happy Earth Day and help
keep our planet clean. Also happy
Good Friday.

EASTER WEEK

2011-04-20T08:45:00.005-05:00

This is a very special week for
all you believe in the resurrection
of our Lord and Savior Jesus. With
all the torment in the world let us
remember he can bring us through
any bad times we have to face. God
bless each and everyone whether you
are a believer or not. Have a blessed
week

EASTER TOLE PAINTED NECKLACES AND EARRINGS

2011-04-19T09:23:00.004-05:00

When I was into tole painting I did these Easter

necklaces and earrings set for myself. They are

made from wood (my husband cut out for me)

and then painted. I have gotten many compliments when I wear them.

Click on picture to enlarge.

GOD BLESS YOU

2011-04-17T06:25:00.001-05:00

Wishing all my blogger friends a blessed Sunday and a great week.

BABY AFGHAN

2011-04-12T11:21:00.002-05:00

This is the crochet baby afghan I did for my new great grandson, who is due July 4TH. It is done in variegated blue, green and white thread. I have had it done for some time but did not want to post a picture of it till my grandson and his wife received it first. They have and they really liked it.

I BELIEVE

2011-04-04T10:47:00.002-05:00

"I believe in the sun even if it isn't shining. I believe in love even when I am alone. I believe in God even when he is silent." ~Aurthor Unknown~

WELCOME THE MONTH OF APRIL

2011-04-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

"April rain is here again; hear it pitter,

pitter, patter, on the leaves and on the

trees, see it spitter, spitter, spatter.

Rain, oh rain, don't go away we need

you for flowers in May; drip drip, drop

and do not stop, send a rain our way."

~Nina B. Hartford~

"The first of April, some do say, is set

apart for All Fool's Day. But why the

people call it so, nor I, nor they themselves

do know. But on this day are people sent

on purpose for pure merriment."

~poor Robin's Almanac, 1790~

RAIN AND MORE RAIN

2011-03-30T16:50:00.002-05:00

It has rained off and on all day.

Believe me I am not complaining.

I have been able to catch up on

some things I have put off doing

inside the house, and when I look

outside I see fresh green grass and

new leaves on the trees. It amazes

me how fast the trees bud out over

night. I have also started on some

crochet lap throws I will give to a

nursing home for people in wheelchairs.

Life is good. God is great and I thank

him for his many blessings.