The Next-to-Nothing House

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T16:28:00.002-05:00

Morning Ramble

2011-10-19T12:49:00.000-04:00

I can not remember where I got this picture.
If it is yours please let me know.

Autumn burst forth in all her glory several weeks ago, but this morning I awoke to winter nipping at her heels. It is cold! Of course, I can hear my northern friends laughing hardily, but with temperatures moving along in the steady upper 70's, you get complacent.

This morning I awoke to a decidedly chilly morning, sending us all into a mad search for warmer jackets and 'real' shoes. Yes, my daughter had to pack away her Toms! I must admit to it being a happy day for me...I don't like Toms. I thinking the company's intentions are wonderful, "With every pair you purchase, Toms will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for one." Great idea! The problem? I don't find them attractive or well-made. I would rather buy attractive, well-made shoes and write a check for charity. I know, I know, lots of people disagree with me... Before you ask, no, I did not buy my daughters shoes; she bought them with babysitting money. Okay, back to this morning... The sudden change in weather caught me unawares and put more stress on our already stressful mornings.

Without fail my alarm clock sounds at 5:30 every week day. Quickly dressing, I make my way downstairs to prepare my morning coffee and to feed Miss Kitty. I have 30 minutes of quiet to meet with God before the day starts racing forth. I cherish this peaceful time for I know that it is short lived.

By 6 o'clock the whirlwind morning routine has started. My youngest, Hayden, is my first to awaken; his bus arrives at 7 a.m. and he is not a morning person :) A warm breakfast of cranberry-walnut oatmeal is ate, while I busily pack lunches, sign school planners, and find the missing permission slip. I vow an oath beneath my breath to be more organized, but all too soon the big yellow bus is at the corner and out the front door he runs. I always stand at the window and say a little prayer as he leaves...the same prayer I say as each of my children leave in the morning.

My oldest, Paine, is the next up, followed by Madeline, and the routine with each varies greatly... Paine doesn't like breakfast, can never find his 'A' day backpack, buys his lunch at school, and catches a ride with friends. Madeline will only have toast for breakfast, is incredibly organized, will never buy lunch at school, and , begrudgingly, rides the bus. Yet, not a one leaves my home without hearing "I love you, have a great day!" But, more importantly, they get their morning prayer as they walk away.

"Watch over thy child, O Lord,

as his days increase,

may he increase in wisdom, stature, and in favor with both God and man.

Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."

Birthday Celebrations

2011-10-12T23:22:00.000-04:00

Tuesday was my birthday.

Tuesday, October 11, was a big birthday.

Tuesday, October 11, was my 40th birthday....

I can't believe it myself! I think I'm going to like being able to say, "Well, now that I'm 40..." or "I'm 40 years old, I don't have to put up with this stuff..."

40 is an adult.

40 is a woman.

40 is finding your stride.

Yes, I think I'm going to like this.

In honor of my mile-stone birthday I made a little bit of heaven ... Enjoy!

Ginger Cake with Lemon Icing

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup light corn syrup

3/4 cup dark molasses

3 tsp. fresh ginger, finely grated

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 cup milk

2 large eggs, beaten

1 tsp. baking soda, dissolved in 2 Tbsp. of warm water

2 1/2 cups all purpose flour

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a medium saucepan, melt butter along with sugar, syrup, molasses,

ginger, and cinnamon. Once butter has melted and all ingredients are well incorporated,

remove from heat and add milk, eggs, and baking soda in it's water.

Measure flour into a large mixing bowl and pour in liquid ingredients; beating very well

(this is a very liquid batter). Pour batter into a 9"x13" pan that has been lightly greased and floured.

Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until risen and firm. Be careful not to over cook, as it is nicer when it is a bit sticky. Cool on a wire rack. Ice with Lemon Icing

Lemon Icing

(I prefer a very tart lemon flavor and the following recipe reflects that, but please adjust

lemon rind and lemon juice to suit your personal taste)

Finely grated rind of 2 lemons

Juice of 2 lemons (told you I liked it tart!)

6 Tbsp. butter, softened

2 Tbsp. water (if needed)

6 cups of confectioners sugar

Cream butter with a 1 cup of the confectioners sugar. Add grated lemon rind

and lemon juice. Continue adding confectioners sugar, one cup at a time,

until reach desired consistency.

A bit of water may be added if it gets too thick.

2011-10-07T15:04:00.000-04:00

When The Frost is on the Punkin

by James Whitcomb Riley (1853-1916)

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock,

And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin’ turkey-cock,

And the clackin’ of the guineys and the cluckin’ of the hens,

And the rooster’s hallylooyer as her tiptoes on the fence;

O, it’s then the time a feller is a-feelin’ at his best,

With the risin’ sun to greet him from a night of peaceful rest,

As he leaves the house, bareheaded, and goes out to feed the stock,

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock.

They’s something kindo’ harty-like about the atmusfere

When the heat of summer’s over and the coolin’ fall is here–

Of course we miss the flowers, and the blossoms on the trees,

And the mumble of the hummin’-birds and buzzin’ of the bees;

But the air’s so appetizin’; and the landscape through the haze

Of a crisp and sunny morning of the airly autumn days

Is a pictur’ that no painter has the colorin’ to mock–

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock.

The husky, rusty russel of the tossels of the corn,

And the raspin’ of the tangled leaves as golden as the morn;

The stubble in the furries–kindo’ lonesome-like, but still

A preachin’ sermuns to us of the barns they growed to fill;

The strawstack in the medder and the reaper in the shed;

The hosses in theyr stalls below–the clover overhead!–

O, it sets my hart a-clickin’ like the tickin’ of a clock,

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock.

Then your apples all is gethered, and teh ones a feller keeps

Is poured around teh cellar-floor in red and yaller heaps;

And your cider-makin’s over, and your wimmern-folks is through

With theyr mince and apple-butter, and theyr souse and sausage too!…

I don’t know how to tell it–but ef such a thing could be

As the angels wantin’ boardin’, and they’d call around on me–

I’d want to ‘commodate ‘em–all the whole-indurin’ flock–

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder’s in the shock.

Looking For Normal

2011-07-11T07:45:00.001-04:00

Life is still crazy for my family at the moment and I've had trouble sitting still long enough to write. My thoughts are with all my dear readers and I hope you are enjoying this glorious July.

This lovely song is seeing me through these days....perhaps it will help you too.

Rose window Durham Cathedral

In heavenly love abiding,

No change my heart shall fear;

And safe is such confiding,

For nothing changes here.

The storm may roar without me,

My heart may low be laid,

But God is round about me,

And can I be dismayed?

Wherever He may guide me,

No fear shall turn me back;

My Shepherd is beside me,

And nothing shall I lack.

His wisdom ever waketh,

His sight is never dim;

He knows the way He taketh,

And I will walk with Him.

Green pastures are before me,

Which yet I have not seen;

Bright skies will soon be o'er me,

Where darkest clouds have been.

My hope I cannot measure,

My path to life is free;

My Savior is my treasure,

And He will walk with me.

~ Anna L. Waring

Parlez Vous Francais?

2011-06-13T16:11:00.002-04:00

Non? Then it's time to learn! Paris is waiting and who doesn't want to go to Paris? Exactly! How you ask?

Oh Happy Day can make it happen.

Meeting For Coffee

2011-06-12T19:16:00.000-04:00

This year the robins have built their nest high upon the garage wall. Often my sole companions in the early morning hours, I join them in the garden, coffee in hand, to delight in the undisturbed, enveloping quiet of the world before the day proceeds. With temperatures daily reaching well into the 90's, the humidity, a thick wet blanket, makes even the simplest of chores a drudgery. Pleasure is taken in these early morning hours. A slight breeze is detectable, but the sun continues its climb over the roof line and soon will burn off the dew that settled overnight. My reprieve from the heat will be short lived.

The blooming of the Winchester Cathedral roses draw my attention, but it is quickly diverted by little heads rising above the nest. Mother and father take turns filling little beaks held agape in faith for food they know will be delivered by loving parents.

Are not five sparrows sold for 2 pennies?

Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.

Luke 12:6

Never do the parents stray far in search of nourishment for their young. A watchful eye keeps guard no further than the cherry tree at the corner of the garden. Wayward birds are soon reminded to whom these delicate little hearts belong. The swift rebuke of a starling, perching to closely to robins nest, is testament to the watchful, paternal love. Not a single worry impedes the growth of the hatchling's in their slumber for their safety is guaranteed, both day and night, by the ones who love them dearly.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life,

what you will eat; or your body,

what you will wear.

Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.

~ Luke 12:22 & 23

Every morning I come out into this garden and await in faith the One who watches over me, both day and night. As the hot coffee seeps into my body and awakens my still sleep befuddled mind, His word quenches my world weary soul. I raise my head up in faith, knowing I will be feed.

Consider the ravens: they do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn;

yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!

~ Luke 12:24

Memorial Day

2011-05-28T20:27:00.000-04:00

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty. ~John F. Kennedy

Soldier, rest! Thy warfare o'er,

Sleep the sleep that knows not breaking,

Dream of battled fields no more.
Days of danger, nights of waking. ~Sir Walter Scott

The story of America's quest for freedom is inscribed on her history in the blood of her patriots. ~Randy Vader

For love of country they accepted death... ~James A. Garfield

They are dead; but they live in each Patriot's breast,

And their names are engraven on honor's bright crest.

~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Spirit, that made those heroes dare

To die, and leave their children free,

Bid Time and Nature gently spare

The shaft we raise to them and thee.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Breathe

2011-05-27T23:49:00.000-04:00

artwork by Maria Dixon 1896

It has been quite a stressful month and I've soothed my frazzled nerves with a combination of tea and beloved books. Here are a few lovely thought from one of Peter Marshall's poetic sermons.

"There is beauty in homely things which many people have never seen:

Sunlight through a jar of beach-plum jelly;

A rainbow in soapsuds in dishwater;

An egg yolk in a blue bowl;

White ruffled curtains sifting moonlight;

The color of cranberry glass;

A little cottage with blue shutters;

Crimson roses in an old stone crock;

The smell of newly-baked bread;

Candlelight on old brass;

The soft brown of a cocker's eyes."

Just reading of such loveliness makes it easier to breath.

Spring In The Bluegrass

2011-05-09T15:08:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday was the running of the 137th Kentucky Derby and we knew all eyes were on us. Derby is our yearly chance to dispel the stereotypes we Kentuckians are plagued with the other 364 days of the year. I won't waste my time writing about those, but will introduce you to the Kentucky that I know.

There is something special about Kentucky in the spring. It is hard to explain just how green it is here....and no, pictures do not do it justice. The redbud's and dogwoods are blooming, the white fences await a fresh coat of paint, and the silver gets polished in time for High Hope.

Of course, once spring slips into summer and the humidity takes hold, we start to dream of those crisp fall days and that sea of blue.

P.S. Yes, we do wear shoes....even our horses wear shoes! :)

Mosaic Mondays at Little Red House

Where I'm From

2011-05-08T18:50:00.001-04:00

My fellow Kentuckian Wendell Berry has voiced the belief that we need to understand our roots to know our place in this world.

"If you don't know where you're from,

you'll have a hard time saying where you're going."

~Wendell Berry

The lovely Searcy from Old Southern Garden was the inspiration for a previous post; a post reminiscent of a poem by George Ella Lyon.

Where I'm From

I am from clothespins,

from Clorox and carbon-tetrachloride.

I am from the dirt under the back porch.

(Black, glistening,

it tasted like beets.)

I am from the forsythia bush

the Dutch elm

whose long-gone limbs I remember

as if they were my own.

I'm from fudge and eyeglasses,

from Imogene and Alafair.

I'm from the know-it-alls

and the pass-it-ons,

from Perk up! and Pipe down!

I'm from He restoreth my soul

with a cottonball lamb

and ten verses I can say myself.

I'm from Artemus and Billie's Branch,

fried corn and strong coffee.

From the finger my grandfather lost

to the auger,

the eye my father shut to keep his sight.

Under my bed was a dress box

spilling old pictures,

a sift of lost faces

to drift beneath my dreams.

I am from those moments--

snapped before I budded --

leaf-fall from the family tree.

~George Ella Lyon

Now it is your turn. Here is a template to write your version of Where I'm From and I will post my version at the very bottom. If you chose to participate, I ask that you link back to this post so that I may visit and enjoy your poem.

I am from _______ (specific ordinary item), from _______ (product name) and _______.

I am from the _______ (home description... adjective, adjective, sensory detail).

I am from the _______ (plant, flower, natural item), the _______ (plant, flower, natural detail)

I am from _______ (family tradition) and _______ (family trait), from _______ (name of family member) and _______ (another family name) and _______ (family name).

I am from the _______ (description of family tendency) and _______ (another one).

From _______ (something you were told as a child) and _______ (another).

I am from (representation of religion, or lack of it). Further description.

I'm from _______ (place of birth and family ancestry), _______ (two food items representing your family).

From the _______ (specific family story about a specific person and detail), the _______ (another detail, and the _______ (another detail about another family member).

I am from _______ (location of family pictures, mementos, archives and several more lines indicating their worth).

Where I'm From

I am from old fruit jars,

from White Lily and Basse's Choice.

I am from the tall, white porch columns.

( graceful, slender ladies

cool under the heat

of a noon day sun.)

I am from the old garden roses,

the ancient white lilac

hugging the east garden wall

in it's lush frilly petticoat beauty.

I am from cream pulled candy and bluest of blue eyes,

from Lucien and Fairy.

I am from the orators and philosophers.

From mind your manners! and remember your people!

I am from All Things Bright And Beautiful and

the 1928 Book of Common Prayer.

I'm from Byrd and Duke's line,

corn pone and bourbon.

From the boat ride my grandfather took through the courthouse

during the 1937 flood,

the dictionary my uncle

bought as a birthday gift for my mother

before being sent to France during World War II.

In the bottom dresser drawer

folded into a tight triangle,

the flag given to my grandmother

reminding me of the price that we pay for freedom.

I am from those Second Sons--

pushing through the Cumberland Gap

to put down family roots

stretching from the Old Dominion

to the Bluegrass.

Growing Up

2011-05-05T12:53:00.000-04:00

This year I will be celebrating my 40th birthday. I'm being teased unmercifully by my children and, just yesterday, informed by Paine that I was going to be sooo old . I couldn't help but laugh. I guess he is right... 40 must appear terribly old from the view point of a 16 year old, but I'm not going to be spending any time mournfully commemorating the passing of my youth. I plan to celebrate the wisdom the last 39 years and 7 months has bestowed upon me.

I recently read this piece by Horace Walpole and believe it sums up my feels perfectly.

"To act with common sense, according to the moment, is the best wisdom;

and the best philosophy is to do one's duties, to take the world as it comes,

submit respectfully to one's lot,

and bless the goodness that has given us so much happiness with it,

whatever it is."

The Holy City

2011-05-01T23:01:00.001-04:00

Every February, for the last 10 years, my family has taken a trip to what has become our families "adopted" city. Unfortunately, with our moves this year it was impossible to make the trip and I've been left with feelings of withdrawal. I've been promised a trip later this year, but until then I will enjoy a few pictures from trips past.

With the numerous steeples dotting the city's skyline, Charleston is known as The Holy City and I make it a point to attend services at a different church each time we visit. Our family is Episcopalian, but as Mother often says, "It's good to shop around for a good sermon on occasion."

I have many recommendation of things to do while in Charleston, but today I'd like to share a place we visit every single year...

Magnolia Plantation was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family and has survived the centuries. It has witnessed the history of our nation from the American Revolution to the Civil War and beyond. It opened its doors to the visitors in 1870 now becoming the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry, and the oldest public gardens in America.

From the beautiful azaleas and camellias to the Monet like white bridges, it is an unforgettable experience to walk the gravel paths and if you look closely perhaps you will find the bench seat where John Drayton sat and composed his sermons before and during the Civil War.

Oh, June can not come quickly enough...

Mosaic Mondays with Little Red House

The Most Important Words

2011-05-01T20:48:00.000-04:00

The six most important words: "I admit I made a mistake."

The five most important words: "You did a good job."

The four most important words: "What is your opinion?"

The three most important words: "If you please."

The two most important words: "Thank you."

The one most important word: "We."

The least important word: "I."

Sounds of Childhood

2011-04-29T17:35:00.001-04:00

church bells

whistling kettle

screen door slamming

cicadas

frying chicken

the whirl of an old fan

creaking porch swing

clink of ice in a tea glass

creak of a wooden floor

a dinner prayer

wind through the trees

lap of water on the lake shore

crunch of gravel underfoot

rain on a tin roof

old ladies cooing over a new baby

click of knitting needles

rustle of a newspaper

mockingbird in a high tree

ticking clocks

momma humming in the kitchen

old men in conversation about the crops

rope swings

hunting dogs

children giggling

the swish of an old corn broom

wooden clothes pins being pulled from a bag

mommas fussing

neighing horses

gentle clink of silver on thin bone china

mommas calling children home for supper

a child's evening prayer

kneelers being pulled out during church

A heartfelt thank you to Searcy for the idea.

The Art of Correspondence

2011-04-18T16:24:00.000-04:00

Once a month, I meet a dear friend for breakfast at a local bookstore, using our time together catching each other up on our busy lives and discussing our views on the world at large. (Oh, if only everyone would just listen to us...we could fix all of the woes of the world lol) This mornings discussion focused on the good and bad of technology.

It should go without saying that I love my computer. I love the ability to connect with people on the other side of the world through email and blogs. I love that I have information at my fingertips, but I often miss what life was like before we all got online. I'm sad that my children don't know the thrill of receiving a handwritten letter from a loved one unexpectedly in the mail; a small joy that email can not compete with.

Surely I'm not the only person who gets excited about receiving mail not requiring a check to be written (bills) or addressed to "occupant"? Most of our written communication seems to be through text messaging or email. Of course, occasionally a birthday card comes in the mail, but, more often than not even birthday wishes are now sent via e-cards. I mourn this loss of written communication...handwritten communication, that is. I miss the pleasure of looking back on the cards and letters from the past, now lovingly tied with ribbon and placed on the top shelf of my closet, awaiting a quiet moment to relive the memories. A printed email message will never be ribbon worthy and all too soon I fear there will nothing more to place on that top shelf. I just can't allow that to happen.

I am on a crusade to revive the art of correspondence. Here are some of my thoughts...

Today find a quiet place and read some of your favorite letters. While sitting there soaking up all the love and support, think of one person you love and write a beautiful, loving letter to that person. Make sure you write from the heart. Letters are intimate. Be intimate. Fancy stationery isn't necessary; write a loving note on the back of a pretty picture or inside of a book to pass along. A letter takes so little time, yet one letter in a lifetime to a mother, a daughter, or a special friend could make a greater difference than you believe.

Brrrr...

2011-03-30T15:37:00.000-04:00

The Elusive Tomorrow

2011-03-28T16:04:00.000-04:00

The sheer number of filled notebooks hidden within my childhood bedroom closet is testament to a life-long desire to write. Teenage romances, centering around a young girl, always named MacKenzie, were the bulk of my earlier writings and, while I would be mortified should anyone read them, I find it impossible to toss them out. Those early attempts at writing the next great novel were not a waste of time, but lessons in perseverance and faith.

The Next-to-Nothing House began as an outlet for my desire to write. It was to be a safe place to wax lyrical, or, attempt to, on everyday living and faith. I say a safe place, for I'm still quite timid about exposing my thoughts for the world to see (and critique). How I admire those writers tossing self-preservation to the wind and lay bare their souls before the world. I am not there, yet. Perhaps fear is what has kept me from dedicating myself completely to this blog? By the way, a search committee needs to be formed to find a word to replace "blog". My previous dashed off posts have done nothing to further my argument of being a serious writer. They make it difficult for even myself to believe I once won a writing contest in college. My only excuse for my lax writing is an unclear vision of what this blog (there's that word again) is to be. Well,an unclear vision and three children, with their continuous interrupting of my thought process : ) I once read an interview with a female author (forgive me for not remember the name) who remarked that her sentences had grown longer in proportion to the ages of her children. As they grew older the interruptions came less often and thoughts could fully bloom within her mind. She expressed my experience exactly, but all of the blame can not be placed with the little darlings. I must step up and take responsibility.

The truth is I've not taken my dream seriously.

By 9 A.M., I find myself alone with everyone off to school for the day and nothing to keep me from sitting down to write, but more important things distract me. The breakfast dishes won't jump into the dishwasher on their own, nor will the load of towels wash themselves, and with each "one more thing" my day slips away. The next thing I know it is 10 P.M., the clean page is still mocking me, and I make another hollow promise to write tomorrow. Tomorrow is such a slippery slope to find oneself on. We tend to believe that tomorrows are infinite. I've spent more years than I'm willing to admit making plans for that elusive tomorrow; the tomorrow of empty laundry hampers, spotless kitchens, and phones that don't ring with a plea for assistance on the other end. This may come as a surprise to some of you, but those days don't exist. I'm teaching myself to be okay with this knowledge, because perfectionism is an ugly mistress which to be yoked.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths. ~ Proverbs 3: 5&6

With the mindset that every choice matters, I begin each day in prayerful contemplation, pleading with God to direct my path. It is my belief that our dreams are implanted in our souls before they are called to this earth and, therefore, are of God. As my faith grows stronger, those perfect tomorrows appear more often than not and I'm delighted to report that their perfection isn't dependent upon clean kitchens.

Do not put statements in the negative form.

And don't start sentences with a conjunction.

If you reread your work, you will find on rereading that a
great deal of repetition can be avoided by rereading and editing.
Never use a long word when a diminutive one will do.
Unqualified superlatives are the worst of all.
De-accession euphemisms.
If any word is improper at the end of a sentence, a linking verb is.
Avoid trendy locutions that sound flaky.
Last, but not least, avoid cliches like the plague.
~William Safire, "Great Rules of Writing"

The Lent Lily

2011-03-27T12:48:00.001-04:00

The Lent Lily

'Tis spring; come out to ramble

The hilly brakes around,

For under thorn and bramble
About the hollow ground
The primroses are found.

And there's the windflower chilly

With all the winds at play,
And there's the Lenten lily
That has not long to stay
And dies on Easter day.

And since till girls go maying

You find the primrose still,
And find the windflower playing
With every wind at will,
But not the daffodil,

Bring baskets now, and sally

Upon the spring's array,
And bear from hill and valley
The daffodil away
That dies on Easter day.

~ A. E. Housman

Spring Has Sprung!

2011-03-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

Happy first day of Spring!!!

Looking Forward To...

2011-02-25T14:50:00.002-05:00

"Dirty hands, iced tea, garden fragrances thick in the air and a blanket of color before me, who could ask for more?"

~Bev Adams

It's Coming

2011-02-22T14:47:00.000-05:00

Are you ready?

It Ain't Easy

2011-02-22T11:18:00.001-05:00

   This past weekend we had a few glorious days of warm weather and even spotted the sun peeking through the clouds a few times, but the reality of February has returned today. The temperature has dropped and heavy cloud cover makes me want to pull the blankets over my head and bid everyone adieu until April. It was a beautiful weekend though....that memory will have to keep me going until the sun returns.

   The Mr. and I celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary this past Saturday. We had dated for two years before, which means we've been together for 20 years now. I often tease that he's known me since I was a teenager (since I was 19 to be exact...I'll let ya'll do the math lol). After 18 years I do have a bit of wisdom to share, but in no way do I believe we've finished learning about one another. So, what have I learned?

   I know that the Mr. will probably always leave the peanut butter and jelly out, but it is okay because he also knows how to make my coffee just the way I like it. I know that his socks will never make it into the laundry hamper and he'll never replace the toilet paper roll, but he will unload the dishwasher and never fuss about the amount I spend on books, so it's all good. I know that he'll never tell me if I've gained weight, but he'll always tell me how beautiful I look. I know that he'll never be one of the girls, but he'll always be my best friend and I couldn't ask for anything more.

I thank God that on February 19, 1993, in this little church...

I got to marry my best friend. The last 18 years ain't been easy, but it's been so worth the effort!

Lovelier?

2011-02-12T01:44:00.000-05:00

Is there anything lovelier than a gift from someone who knows your hearts desire? I think not!

For my lovely husband.... Thank you for the much needed "little happy".

I Prefer

2011-01-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape - the loneliness of it, the dead feeling of winter. Something waits beneath it, the whole story doesn't show.

~ Andrew Wyeth

Januweary

2011-01-09T16:02:00.000-05:00

The color of springtime is in the flowers,

the color of winter is in the imagination.

~Ward Elliot Hour

After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, January is typically my quiet month; a time to recharge before Spring brings forth the joys (and work) of gardening. This is the time of year to rest and relax in front of this...

"The happiness of the domestic fireside is the first bone of Heaven; and it is well it is so, since it is that which is the lot of the mass of mankind"

~Thomas Jefferson

January is the time to enjoy as much of this as possible....

Strange how a teapot can represent at the same time the comforts of solitude

and the pleasure of company.

It is the time to enjoy as many of these as possible...

"You can't get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me."

~ C.S. Lewis

And, if all else fails....stay here until Spring....

"The feeling of sleepiness when you are not in bed, and can't get there,

is the meanest feeling in the world."

~ Edgar Watson Howe

I Am Thankful

2011-01-04T23:57:00.000-05:00

I sit in quiet contemplation of the last year and breath a sigh of relief. Having made it through the year with only minor injuries, I look back and know that I am blessed. We survived moving three times in a 9 month period; making us feel like a band of traveling gypsies. You should know that my personality is not one suited to living out of boxes. : )

I am by every definition of the word a homebody. Home is being surrounded by my most cherished possession. Home is knowing every nook and cranny as well as my own face. It is being able to close your eyes and seeing the exact pattern the sun will make on the floor at different times of the day and the moon at night. Home. The word alone feels comforting.

"I am thankful for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home.... I am thankful for the piles of laundry and ironing because it means my loved ones are nearby." ~Nancie J. Carmody

Nine months ago I packed all of my belongings and left my home in the hands of a realtor. I, along with my family, set out to make a new home in another state. I will spare you the details...it did not go as planned Having, now, returned to our home, we have a greater appreciation than we've ever known. The front door that swells during the winter isn't the bother that it once was, nor is the telephone booth sized shower. Yes, the door still swells and the shower is still terribly small, but our perception of them has changed. Instead of nit picking, I now chose to smile and love it all, for I am blessed to have a home so sweet.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T05:00:00.002-05:00

Earth strike up your music,

Birds that sing and bells that ring,

Heaven hath answering music,

For all Angels soon to sing.

Earth put on your whitest,

Bridal robe of spotless snow,

For Christmas bringeth Jesus,

Brought for us so low.

-Christina Rossetti

Be Open

2010-12-22T18:37:00.000-05:00

may my heart always be open

E.E. Cummings

may my heart always be open to little

birds who are the secrets of living
whatever they sing is better than to know
and if men should not hear them men are old

may my mind stroll about hungry

and fearless and thirsty and supple
and even if it’s sunday may i be wrong
for whenever men are right they are not young

and may myself do nothing usefully

and love yourself so more than truly
there’s never been quite such a fool who could fail
pulling all the sky over him with one smile 

Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

2010-11-29T15:54:00.000-05:00

Jolly "Hands Around"

2010-10-12T20:30:00.001-04:00

October’s Party
by George Cooper

October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came.
The Chestnuts, Oaks and Maples,
And leaves of every name.

The Sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,
Miss Weather led the dancing,
Professor Wind the band.

The Chestnuts came in yellow,
The Oaks in crimson dressed;
The lovely Misses maple
In scarlet looked their best.

All balanced to their partners,
And gaily fluttered by;
The sight was like a rainbow
New fallen from the sky.

Then in the rustic hollow
At hide-and-seek they played;
The party closed at sundown
And everybody stayed.

Professor Wind played louder;
They flew along the ground;
And then the party ended
In jolly "hands around."

Rewards

2010-10-07T20:04:00.002-04:00

"Lo, children are the heritage of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is His reward."

-Psalm 127:3

Try, Try Again

2010-09-02T13:05:00.000-04:00

I was not sure if blogging was for me, but I thought I would give it another try.....Let's see how it goes....

Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

2010-06-11T12:43:00.001-04:00

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, by Judith Viorst

From the moment he wakes up things just do not go Alexander's way. Gum in his hair, getting out of bed, he trips on a skateboard and drops his sweater into a sink full of water. At breakfast, his brothers Nick and Anthony reach into their cereal boxes and pull out amazing prizes, while all Alexander ends up with is cereal. It is all down hill from there...criticized for his singing, reduced to third best friend and no dessert in his lunch. No wonder Alexander wants to move to Australia!

Haven't we all had days like these? While I don't foresee a move to Australia, I have been trying to change my attitude about these days. Below is a list of 100 blessing that I've compiled to remind myself that I have many more reasons to be happy rather than sad.

In no particular order....

My Blessing
1. my health
2. my mother
3. my father
4. Paine (my son)
5.Madeline (my daughter)
6. Hayden (my son)
7. Paul (my husband)
8. my brother and sisters
9. sleeping late on the weekend
10. beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows of Autumn
11. good friends, who love me
12. never knowing real hunger
13. always having a home
14. being able to read and write
15. a warm safe bed to return to at night
16. central heating
17. good books
18. a comfortable chair
19. freedom to worship
20. Miss Kitty (our sweet seven year old cat)
21. my husbands unfailing love
22. getting control of the t.v. remote
23. good movies
24. soothing pots of tea
25. God's love
26. the good health of my children
27. good health of my mom
28. good health of my dad
29. Chelsie (our beautiful Sheltie that died last year)
30. freedom to make my own decisions
31. delicious food
32. wonderful childhood memories
33.the right to vote
34. walking quietly in the woods
35. watching birds
36. growing up with horses
37. warm, gooey, chocolate chip cookies
38. comfort food
39. hot shower to soothe aching muscles
40. a funny joke
41. sitting in the sunshine
42. chocolate
43. smell of citrus
44. bubbles
45.Thanksgiving celebrations
46. Peonies
47. the smell of freshly mowed grass
48. red, juicy apples
49. field trips with kindergarteners
50. birthdays
51. cake
52. teaching Sunday School
53. quiet time
54. mood lifting music
55. freshly painted rooms
56.Christmas with family
57. reading under an apple tree
58. warm colorful quilts
59. Christmas church services
60. dinner in the oven
61. the kindness of strangers
62. a baby's smile
63. lilacs in the Spring
64. Thursday morning bible study
65. used book stores
66. modern appliances that make life so much easier
67. seeing the sun rise over the hill in Cooperfield (our neighborhood)
68. seeing the sun set over the Pacific Ocean
69. collecting seashells on Coronado Island
70. flying in an airplane
71. a new perfume
72. mystery shows on t.v.
73. going to the movies
74. a quiet house
75. taking a beautiful drive
76. baking cookies
77. painting a beautiful picture, when I didn't know that I could.
78. having a reliable car to drive
79. spending the day with my Aunt Minnie
80. the internet - being able to communicate with anyone/anywhere
81. cuddling in bed with Hayden
82. watching Paine play football
83. having an afternoon with my parents
84. spending a few hours alone in Joseph-Beth (local bookstore)
85. the smell of a new baby
86. fresh brewed coffee
87. a surprise snow storm
88. finding money in a jacket pocket
89. fresh gingerbread
90. being inspired to create
91. waking up full of energy and in a great mood
92. reading something that resonates
93. freshly washed hair
94. the beauty that is my dad's garden
95. cold watermelon on a hot day
96. lemon scented furniture polish
97. cool, clean cotton sheets on a hot summer night
98. standing between the lines of clothes hung to dry
99. warm flannel sheets
100. freedom to give and receive love

I feel better already!

Work Out What God Works In

2010-06-05T23:51:00.001-04:00

Photo of a Celtic cross at sunrise copyright Craig Goodwin

"Work out your own salvation." ~ Philippians 2:12

" Your will agrees with God, but in your flesh there is a disposition which renders you powerless to do what you know you ought to do. When the Lord is presented to the conscience, the first thing conscience does is to rouse the will, and the will always agrees with God. Look to Jesus and you will find that your will and your conscience are in agreement with Him every time."

~ Oswald Chambers

I've Been Blessed

2010-04-24T18:59:00.004-04:00

A home church is such a personal decision. For several years, we visited church after church and never found what we were looking for. One day, in the heart of the city, I happened upon this lovely little church...

I at once felt at home and spent almost eight years worshipping in this lovely space....

Not only was the church beautiful, but we were blessed with the awe inspiring music of these very talented people (my son and daughter would be included in this group)....

Madeline, first row, second from the left, and Paine, second row,second from the right.

Recently, Lanier wrote about one of my favorite authors, Elizabeth Goudge, and shared that the cathedral depicted in The Dean's Watch was based on Ely Cathedral. I had to share with her my connection, if but a paltry one, to this glorious cathedral.

In 2009, my beloved choir had the honor of a residency at Ely Cathedral. I promised that I would post pictures....Enjoy!

Ely Cathedral as seen from the Lamb Hotel

The amazing architecture

There are no words...

The details are stunning....

Dizzying heights....

The Cathedral song school...

The entrance to the choir stalls....

I am so proud of them!

Our choir practising....

The unbelievably talented Mr. Zach, our former Children's Choir Master, and the lovely Margaret from our Saint Cecelia's Girls Choir.

Is Mr. Zach truly talented? Well, this is his new job site....The American Cathedral in Paris, France. I am so proud to say that he was my daughters first music teacher!

We have recently moved to Georgia and it is heartbreaking to leave a place and friends, that are more like family, but I've enjoyed writing this post and getting to reminisce.

Visit here , the site of our Choir Master, to enjoy the sheer beauty of the music I was blessed to hear every Sunday.

He Has Risen!

2010-04-04T12:12:00.001-04:00

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."

So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."

Matthew 28:1-10

Don't you just love weddings?

2010-03-26T23:58:00.000-04:00

A pretty little church....

Pews that have seen a lifetime of prayers...

Pretty little brides-maids...

Last minute adjustments...

The joining of hands...

The formation of a new family...

Hark! The merry chimes are pealing,

Soft and glad the music swells,

Gaily in the night wind stealing,

Sweetly sound the wedding bells.

- Eliza Cook

Don't Buy Stuff

2010-03-17T12:21:00.001-04:00

It's funny how it's the simply things that are often the hardest to learn lol

In Character

2010-03-10T16:36:00.002-05:00

The canopy created by our family's apple tree was always a much loved place to spend a day reading. I would grab an old quilt, a glass of sweet tea and a favorite book to while away the hours of summer vacation. Complete immersion in my latest read would have me "becoming" my favorite characters. I was Anne Shirley, a poor orphan, feeling alone in the world, but she was soon replaced by Jo March. Being one of several sisters, Jo suited much better, but ,alas, I am the youngest and lacked Jo's fearlessness. She was soon replaced.

A love of reading has continued into adulthood and it is well known that I would pass on food to buy a good book :) Reading has always been my escape to foreign lands and customs, lifestyles that were completely different from my own, yet contained truths that I could not deny. These characters, spun from the imaginations of truly brilliant writers, became a part of me.

From Jo I understand my desire to write and my love of family. Charlotte (Charlotte's Web) taught me that the least likely friends are often the most loved. Anne made me realize that often what you wish for isn't what is right for you. What little girl can't understand Anne's angst over her red hair and freckles? Without said physical characteristics she wouldn't have been ....well....she just wouldn't have been Anne!

"Tell me what you read and I'll tell you who you are" is true enough, but I'd know you better if you told me what you reread." ~Francois Muriac

I re-read these books often. They are not only the books of my childhood, but the gentle rasp that shaped my personality. My sincere gratitude to those amazing writers with their God given gifts.

Once Again

2010-03-08T16:16:00.001-05:00

We are moving....again. Here is the short version of the story....

Sweet husband got new job and moved to Georgia. We put house up for sale, found house to lease and moved. Within three days of our arrival sweet husband was sent to Korea for a few weeks. ( I wasn't believing him to be so sweet at that point). Leased house had stinky, mystery smell, bugs, mold and as a bonus....scorpion in the basement. Called sweet husband in Korea and cried. Proving that he truly is sweet, he said for us to head back to Kentucky.

That is were we've been since....

Now we are moving.....in three short weeks.

It is just as hard to leave as it was before, but we know that it is for the best. I will chose to be happy and look forward to what this new adventure has in store for us.

I pinky promise to write if you'll pinky promise to comment....Deal?

It's The Simple Things

2010-02-11T17:14:00.001-05:00

Bleak Winter

The ceaseless gray days of winter are starting to get me down.

Our lives are being dictated by the latest weather forecast and too many days trapped inside has left us feeling positively horrid. (Make sure to read that last sentence with your very best Boston Brahmin accent)

In an effort to push back the dreariness, I've chosen to completely ignore energy conservation and leave the lamps on virtually all day.

I will drag myself from an attitude of abasement by making a list to remind of the simple pleasures life has to offer. After all, it is the simple things that truly light up our lives....no electricity needed!

My list...

the warm, cosy fire that I've had burning for most of the day

a cup of tea while sitting in my favorite chair

hot, fresh croissants...that I made from scratch!

bouquet of tulips on the mantle... sent by my loving husband

a weekend trip to a warmer climate

the joy of seeing The Young Victoria

What makes your list?

Above The Pearls

2010-01-29T01:44:00.001-05:00

Sir Edward Coley Burne-Jones

It appears that I've decided to become 'all fancy' and get my own .com! For a person with no inclination for html, I did it all on my own and I'm quite proud of that fact. I now feel like an absolute princess....so, when you pass by please remember to wave....above the pearls and below the tiara. ; )

You've Gotta Laugh

2010-01-26T10:43:00.001-05:00

Snowing....again! Sometimes you've just gotta laugh. This might help

Snow Day!

2010-01-09T13:52:00.001-05:00

Mother Nature has been keeping us on our toes recently. Lots of snow and incredibly cold temperatures have blessed us with two "snow days". While we enjoy these unexpected mini vacations, I look around and see the havoc these snow days wreak on my home.

Hats, coats and gloves are strewn all about the front foyer and extra laundry is piled from frequent changes. The remains of hot cocoa and cinnamon toast litter the counter top and I wonder if I have the energy to tackle it all.

I've had a cold for the past week and have been left weak and sleep deprived. At times like these I just want to run away, but we all know that it isn't realistic :) Being a homemaker is a 24/7 job and, while you don't get sick days off, you can lighten up on yourself.

Know and accept that things are not going to be perfect for a while. Do the bare minimum! No, the floor does not need moped right now. It can wait...but, a quick spritz and wipe of the countertops is doable and should not exhaust you. Hopefully, it will even give you a little lift to see that shiny expanse of clean.

Have the children gather all of their wet clothing and toss them (the clothes...not the children lol) into the washer. If they are big enough to play in the snow, then they are big enough to contribute to the clean up of it. Besides, they will love to slip on those socks, gloves and hates, toasty and warm from the dryer.....and head back out.

Remember, whether ill or not, this is your snow day, too. Pamper yourself a little with some hot cocoa, a good book and some warm fuzzy socks. Here in the south we don't often get these surprise vacations, so let's all enjoy it!

Life

2010-01-06T18:08:00.001-05:00

Jack Davis Art

I came upon this recently on ylcf ... Lanier always posts such lovely things. It is a perfect poem for this time of year. Enjoy!

Life by Henry Van Dyke

"LET me but live my life from year to year,

With forward face and unreluctant soul;

Not hurrying to, nor turning from the goal;

Not mourning for the things that disappear

In the dim past, nor holding back in fear

From what the future veils; but with a whole

And happy heart, that pays its toll

To Youth and Age, and travels on with cheer.

So let the way wind up the hill or down,

O’er rough or smooth, the journey will be joy:

Still seeking what I sought when but a boy,

New friendship, high adventure, and a crown,

My heart will keep the courage of the quest,

And hope the road’s last turn will be the best.

The Weather Outside is Frightful...

2009-12-31T13:16:00.001-05:00

My apologies to Frank Sinatra....

Rain, snow, ice --- here in Kentucky we are expecting them all today! While it may be frightful outside, we can make it quite delightful inside....with a little help from Betty Crocker and her hot cocoa recipe.

Mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1/4 cup cocoa. To this add 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring it too a boil over low heat then add 5 1/2 cups of milk and heat until scalded (do not boil). A pinch of salt and a drop of vanilla finishes it off....but to make it truly sublime we all know that you need tiny marshmallows and a candy can stirrer! (yields 6-8 servings...so why not invite a friend?!)

Weary Little Souls

2009-12-31T13:03:00.001-05:00

(Written earlier this morning)

     The last day of the year and I am sitting in bed contemplating what the new year has in store for us. This year has had a many ups and downs and at times I've cried to God to help us get off this seesaw! So, at once I am happy and sad to see 2009 take it's final bow tonight, but I am determined to make the best of 2010.

     As a self-proclaimed perfectionist, I admit to wanting to fuss over everything left undone before the clock strikes midnight. Yet, I do not want to carry weariness and anxiety into the new year. Perfectionism is draining and, if I believed in new year resolutions, I would resolve to do away with such a horrid habit! I want to welcome 2010 with a light heart. Here is my plan:

     Stick to the plan - A daily schedule is my best friend. I know the fear of the unexpected visitor showing up at the front door just as your children have pulled every single thing out of the hall closet, the sink couldn't hold another dirty dish and Cheerios crunch with every step you take. The ensuing panic/anxiety leaves me feeling worn out and this is where a schedule will help. I'm not talking about a color-coded, power-point presentation kind of schedule. I'm thinking bare bones kind of plan. A plan that you can live with and not feel as if it weighs you down. Of course, everyones will look different, but here is mine...Monday is laundry and bills....Tuesday is marketing....Wednesday is baking and ironing....Thursday is errands and projects...and Friday is for cleaning.
     On Monday's, I will not let that pile of books, that haven't a home, bother me because I know I will deal with them on Thursday (project day). While Friday's are my cleaning day, the basics will be done everyday...wipe the toothpaste out of the sink :) , give the floors a quick sweep and put things to right. Friday is about the real cleaning, but daily it will look good enough for unexpected visitors.
     When you become weary from the neverending cycle of cleaning remember Elisabeth Elliot's words "when in doubt about what to do, do the next thing."

Be creative- No, you aren't expected to create a masterpiece each day :) , but do attempt to do something creative each day. It can be as simple as coloring in your children's coloring book or picking wild flowers to fill a jelly jar. For a moment your mind will be refreshed by these simple acts and give you time to thank God for His creation.

Soul pampering- All too often when we are overwhelmed by lifes demands we attempt to heal the weariness by pampering our bodies. Of course, there are times when our bodies do need this pampering, but when the weariness if 'bone deep', you will need something more. Spending more time in Bible reading and prayer can heal your weary soul. The Lord's words have the power to soothe and reenergize. Remember to pray each day that His will be done and may your life, actions and thoughts be a glory unto Him.

Happy New Year!!

In His Peace,

A Time To Rest

2009-12-30T22:20:00.001-05:00

The hustle and bustle of Christmas has passed. Let us all take some time to reflect on the wonderful memories we have of 2009 and look forward to the coming year. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and I send prayers and good wishes for a very Happy New Year!

Flying By....

2009-11-06T09:14:00.001-05:00

Yes, I have been a terrible blogger, but I promise to do better!Time has just been flying by (more like 'bye'). New posts soon....Until then, get outside and enjoy the beautiful autumn colors while they last.

By The Pond

2009-09-07T01:05:00.005-04:00

It looks like moving day is quickly approaching and I'm feeling more than a little overwhelmed, but I finally know where I will be living. That is a positive, right?

We've leased this lovely little house for the next year....(I'm not terribly fond of the blue, but you won't catch me on a ladder trying to remedy it's unfortunate coloring). Besides, the yard more than makes up for it.

Did I mention that it has a wonderful screened in porch? I plan to spend most of my time on it, sipping tea and reading some Elizabeth Goudge....perhaps I will glance up ever so often to take a look at this...
Yes, that was bragging, but you must forgive me for I will be terribly homesick.

Unexpected Surprises

2009-08-19T15:31:00.003-04:00

To My Dear and Loving Husband

If ever two were one, then surely we.
If ever man were lov’d by wife, then thee.
If ever wife was happy in a man,
Compare with me, ye women, if you can.
I prize thy love more than whole Mines of gold,
Or all the riches that the East doth hold.
My love is such that Rivers cannot quench,
Nor ought but love from thee give recompense.
Thy love is such I can in no way repay;
The heavens reward thee manifold I pray.
Then while we live, in love lets so persevere,
That when we live no more, we may live ever.

Anne Bradstreet (1612-72)

I know exactly what she is talking about.

I received a wonderful gift today and it came out of the blue....and was in a divine blue box. They are lovely....thank you.

At Long Last...

2009-08-18T12:48:00.003-04:00

"Dreams carried around in one's heart for years, if they are dreams that have God's approval, have a way of suddenly materializing." ~Catherine Marshall

Divorce can affect a family for generations. My grandparents divorced when my mother was a mere 2 years old and for various reasons, none of which I completely understand, she never saw her father again. In 1976, she received word that her father had passed away and her chance to bond with the man who gave her life was lost.

While I've always been saddened by my mother's lack of a relationship with her own father, what was absolutely heartbreaking was the fact that she did not even know what he looked like. After all, not many memories remain from such a young age.

A mention of a second wife in the obituary was a hope. They corresponded for a while, but the only picture that she had was of him dressed as Santa. It gave Mother nothing.

I'm not sure when the dream was born in my heart to seek someone who could tell us about my grandfather, but a dream it was.

With great happiness I share the news that with the help of Ancestry.com, I have found my mother's long lost family! This past weekend we met for lunch and with God's approval my dream materilized.

I would like to introduce my grandfather, Theodore....

My Symphony

2009-08-13T21:03:00.007-04:00

30 Days. Our house has been on the market for 30 days. I must admit to being more than a little depressed by this. After all, our last house sold in only 12 days! I know...it was a completely different market 4 long years ago, but it doesn't make me feel a lot better. I remind myself that this isn't a buyers market or a sellers market...it's God's market. No matter how much I beg and plead He has a plan that will be shown to me in due time. I know, I know....patience.

During my time of waiting, I've wondered where we will end up. A house is such a personal matter. My taste has changed as I've grown older....God bless my husband for not putting up a fuss about the early years of pink and frilly :) While I desire to live in the country with a few acres of solitude, I wonder if that is the best thing for my children. They've always lived in neighborhoods with several friends waiting just outside the door. There is an up and down side to both of these...

What about the physical house itself? I believe we've been programmed to believe that bigger is better, but in my experience it is not true. To this day our family misses our 1,800 square foot Cape Cod "starter" home. We now live in a house that is over 3,000 square feet, but have never loved it like the smaller one. That is exactly what I believe you need to do....truly love your home. Does it need to be perfect? Of course not. Does it need to be professionally decorated? That would be NO. What it does need is to reflect you. What do you love? What do you hold sacred? What matters most?

It is so easy to feel intimidated when reading some of the incredible decorating blogs and don't even get me started on the decorating magazines! They make it look effortless and I often just don't have the extra time or energy to try even half of what they do, but God bless them for doing it. Hopefully someday I will be able to put some of their good ideas to use, but for now I will just enjoy reading about their efforts.

So, while I don't usually have a "picture perfect" home, it does always reflect where my heart is.....

"To live content with small means;
To seek elegance rather than luxury,
and refinement rather than fashion;
To be worthy , not respectable, and wealthy, not rich;
To study hard, think quietly,
Talk gently,
Act frankly;
To listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart;
To bear all cheerfully,
Do all bravely,
Await occasions,
Hurry never.
In a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common.
This is to be my symphony."

By William Henry Channing

(above photo is of the Webster Cottage...the orginal next-to-nothing house)

School Days

2009-08-13T11:18:00.003-04:00

"The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn." - William Shakespeare

Where did the summer go? With the start of a new school year the crazy level in the house rises. That is 3 children x 3 different schools = insanity! At least they all looked pretty.... l to r: Hayden 3rd grade, Paine 9th grade, and Madeline 6th grade (before "fixin" her hair).

Madeline with her hair all ready :)

Time Out

2009-08-07T19:00:00.003-04:00

No, no one is in trouble and put in time out. I'm taking a little bloggy break to drive to Georgia and celebrate the Mr's birthday....Happy 40th!!!!

Tomato Love

2009-08-04T18:25:00.004-04:00

We've been visiting my parents over the weekend and look at what I got....

Of course, I had to pick them, but they are so worth it!

I'm thinking tomato pie for dinner tomorrow night.... I'll share to recipe tomorrow.

The Name Game

2009-07-31T11:40:00.004-04:00

Naming your blog can be a bit daunting. It want something to strike the right tone...to, at a glance, tell what the blog is about and who you are. It is kind of like being in a class and everyone goes around giving one word for who you are.

After several stops and starts, I've come upon The Next-to-Nothing House. It is the title to a lovely little book first published in 1922. I am quite fortunate to own a first addition and truly treasure the wisdom found between the faded green cloth cover. I could try to explain what it means to me, but Lanier says it much better than I could.

The Dry Season

2009-07-31T11:04:00.004-04:00

It has been a rare summer here in Kentucky....or at least in Central Kentucky. We have been blessed with enough rain. Usually water conservation is one of the main topics on the local news by August, but this year the rain has been plentiful.

The post title is not a comment on the weather, but of the times. It is almost impossible to watch the news, read a newspaper, or even listen to the radio without hearing about how times are tough. I have to regularly remind myself to look for the positive...and it's not always easy.

Today one of my favorite bloggers posted a lovely old poem from the Depression era that helps us to remember that times are only as tough as we allow them to be. Please hop over and see what Mrs. Wilt has to share. You won't be disappointed.

At Our Table

2009-07-31T10:23:00.004-04:00

While growing up we always had dinner together at the kitchen table. It wasn't something we thought about...we just did it. I never thought of watching tv while eating my dinner, but somehow times have changed. I must admit that while our family sits in the same room and eats, we are not eating together.

With the house being for sale and trying to keep it 'showing perfect', we have returned to our table. I think we will be the better for it....

Where can you communicate while you eat?
Where can you enjoy real fellowship sweet?
Where can you laugh with friends who are neat?
At the table.

Where can you pour out your heart and soul?
Where can you explain what is taking its toll?
Where can you share your vision and goal?
At the table.

Where can you dialogue and sift through ideas?
Verbalize thoughts and yet still be at ease?
Discover new subjects to debate if you please?
At the table.

Where can your hearts be knitted as one?
Where can you yarn and old stories be spun?
Feel accepted so you don't have to run?
At the table.

Where can your children learn to sit still?
Acquire eating habits that won't make them ill?
Be taught good manners of which some have nil?
At the table.

Where to imbibe values and ethics for life?
Learn to eat correctly with fork and knife?
Observe how "to father" and be a good wife?
At the table.

Where can you reveal God's ways to your kin?
Teach them His Word will keep them from sin?
That to follow God's laws is the way to win?
At the table.

Where can you encourage your children each day?
And boost the confidence of these "jars of clay"?
Give counsel that will keep them from going astray?
At the table.

Where can you make your house feel a "home"?
With a lovely warm ambience and happy tone?
From where your children will not want to roam?
At the table.

Where can you show love to God's special "flock"?
Feed those who come to your door and knock?
Even those who don't know God can be their Rock?
At the table.

Where does God love His presence to fill?
Where does He want His blessing to spill?
Where does He want restless hearts to be still?
At the table.

Dear father and mother, look again at your table,
Family meals together will make your home stable!
Make it a priority -- your God will enable!
Sit at your table!

~Nancy Campbell

Cultivating Patience

2009-07-30T16:41:00.004-04:00

Those of you who know me won't be surprised that patience is a virtue I have yet to cultivate. I've been able to make it through most of my life with few complications (and a few temper tantrums), but it appears that the time for patience has come.

Do you know the old joke of how to make God laugh? Punch line: tell Him your plans. Well, He must have been laughing like crazy back in May. I was so convinced that I could whip this house into shape, put it on the market, sell quickly and be on my way to Georgia. This is how it actually happened.....

Our house was not ready until mid-July and if I were honest I would admit that there are probably a few things I could still do. We have placed it for sale and while we've recieve a fair amount of interest, as of yet, no offers. Home shopping in Georgia hasn't been much more productive, but without a sale here it doesn't really matter. School is starting soon and I must admit to getting a bit teary eyed. I've been crying to God that we are living in limbo. We don't really live in Kentucky, but we don't yet live in Georgia. Do I place the children in school here or try to enroll them in Georgia? Do we try to buy a house in Georgia or just find an apartment for the time being?

These are just a few of the things that I discuss with God each night, but He only has one word for me....patience.

"But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." Romans 8:25

Moving....blogs

2009-07-30T13:41:00.002-04:00

I thought this was more appropriate for our circumstance.....The Next-to-Nothing House Enjoy our new (blogging) home!

Anyone???

2009-07-30T13:40:00.002-04:00

It's time for someone...anyone...to find me a magic wand!!!! I'm tired of cleaning, painting, organizing and being unpaid labor. I know....I need a little cheese to go with my whine.

What We'll Miss

2009-07-30T13:37:00.002-04:00

Needless to say, this is a hard move for all of us. I thought I would take a moment to share just a few of the things that have made life here so great...

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Of course, this isn't everything. There are so many friends that we will miss something awful, but I didn't think y'all would want me to put your pictures on the internet lol.

Stay tuned in...I will show you what I'm looking forward to...

Graduation Week

2009-07-30T13:36:00.002-04:00

Today was the big wrap up of graduation week and I am exhausted. Yesterday was Madeline's graduation and she looked just beautiful...yes, I am bias, but it is my blog and I get to write whatever I want :o) Of course, a new dress makes most girls feel extra pretty so we had to go shopping Thursday night. (I thought the Mr. was going to drag us both out of the store lol.) She received several awards, but just missed honor roll. Lets just say she didn't get her daddy's math abilities ;)

We took lots of pictures, which I will post soon, and took time to say goodbye to all of her friends and teachers. It was pretty sad....we've known most of them since kindergarten. We'll miss them all.

For Sale

2009-07-30T13:35:00.003-04:00

Time seems to be flying. The Mr. will be leaving in 10 short days and there is so much left to do. Of course, we should be spending all of our time getting the house ready to sell, but real life keeps getting in the way.

I'm sure that there are lots of mothers out there feeling exhausted from the final days of school and I'm no exception. Baseball practice and games, final projects, plays, end of year picnics, 5th and 8th grade graduations leave me feeling tired and I don't want to be an adult anymore....it's over, I quit. If only it were that easy... So, what do I do? I make my lists and work each item one by one. I hope to finish by Christmas :)

A big step was taken today when I called our realtor. Our house should be on the market in a couple of weeks and then the hard work really begins. It makes me crazy trying to keep our house clean while it is being shown. Lets all pray for a quick sale! If I can't get a quick sale, I would, at least, like to not lose all of my hair during this.

Whistle While You Work

2009-07-30T13:34:00.003-04:00

Vacation is over....meet my new best friend.....

Just so y'all know, I am taking volunteers!

Georgia On Our Mind

2009-07-30T13:30:00.002-04:00

Welcome one and all to our new blog!

We have big news to share... We are moving to Georgia! I know it's shocking isn't it?! It is our hope that this blog will help us stay connected with our family and friends....hey, we may even make new friends with this.

So, this is your invitation to join us as we get our house ready to sell, find a new house, move seven hours away, start new schools, start new jobs....Gotta stop...I'm scaring myself. Here we go!