Shug-Steps of Faith

I've been missing in action...

2026-10-24T20:11:20.097-05:00

First things first.....I owe my blogging friends a little apology!!

I know I've been missing in action lately. My blogging has been hit-and-miss, my reading has fallen behind, and goodness knows I haven't been very good about stopping by to visit and leave comments on your blogs.

Believe me when I say, I've missed y'all...

This evening, Sam informed me that if I didn't start blogging and commenting every day like I love doing, that all my blogging friends are going to give up on me and stop coming around!! He enjoys reading what you all have to say.

Nothing like a little pressure from the husband...LOL

The truth is, this past month has just about worn me to a frazzle. I'm tired, my brain is running in twelve different directions, and my to-do list seems to grow longer every time I mark something off. Plus...I am still trying to get used to the Sleep Apnea machine.

We have a BIG wedding coming up weekend after next, and if that wasn't enough to keep me hopping, I've also been helping Sam plan a business dinner for this coming Friday.

And, when I say helping Sam, that might be stretching the truth just a tiny bit.. Let's just say I've been doing a whole lot of the helping... while Sam has been having to rest a lot. Exactly what he needs to be doing...RESTING!

The dinner is for Texas Pecan Nursery, the stockholders, the beneficiaries, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife committee. We are expecting 52 guests, so as you can imagine, there are plenty of details to take care of.

I've been working on the decorations, invitations, place cards, as well as a detailed notebook that each guest will receive at the beginning of the meeting/dinner. Inside, will be details about the history of the Nursery, as well as stories about Sam's grandfather (who started the nursery some 87 years ago). Included are pages about the family history of four generations.

It took me a few weeks to complete all of the typing, have the pages printed and then organize the notebook.

Y'all know how it goes.. It's not the big things that is so tiring, it's those fifty little things that pop into your head at two o'clock in the morning that becomes heavy. I'm beginning to think that I need to hire me a secretary or a personal assistant just to remind me what day of the week it is.

So, all of this is my long-winded way of saying that for the next couple of weeks, I may be a little scarce around blog land...Not because I want to be, but because life has decided to fill up every spare moment that I have right now.

I'm already looking forward to the week of November 9th. If everything goes according to plan, I think I might take me a two-week staycation.... without ever leaving the house.

In the meantime, please don't give up on me.. I haven't forgotten a single one of you, and I certainly haven't lost my love for blogging or the friendships I have made.

Hopefully, I will be popping in during the next couple of weeks, and then before long, I'll be back to my normal blogging and visits. I just felt like I owed you all an explanation as to where I've been and what I've been doing.

Love to all of you...

Shug....

A river in the Sky.

2026-10-22T08:19:52.868-05:00

Thankful Thursday:

Good morning, Y'all.

A stunning East Texas sunrise... Just look at the colors! God certainly knows how to put on a show and He does not ever charge a single penny for the view.

In this photo, I see beautiful colors of orange, red and yellow, but I also see the three crosses that are standing in the middle of a pasture.

Looking at the whole picture, I thought about how life is much like a river. Some days the waters are calm, gently carrying us along, and other days the current is strong, the waters are muddy, and we find ourselves wondering what's around the next bend.

We can't always control the direction that the river takes, and we can't stop every storm that comes our way. But one thing I know for sure is that God never promised us smooth waters, but He did promise to be with us through them.

My connection between the photo above and the river? When I saw the vibrant colors and then saw the crosses, I immediately saw a river flowing in the sky. I love how God speaks to us through the simplest things and He delivers a message that speaks to us directly.

Happy Thankful Thursday!

I am thankful that I am a christian and I'm thankful for a God who cares enough to paint a picture in the sky...perhaps just for me?

Shug...

Bras In Texas

2026-10-21T07:49:08.765-05:00

Good morning wonderful friends...I look forward to talking to each of you each day...(When I can)

Bras in Texas is what my post is about today. These are not my bras and I didn't hang them on the fence! I actually posted about this many years ago and I thought this topic was worth mentioning again..

Every October, a breast cancer survivor, covers her fences with bras as a reminder to others that this is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her message: to remind women to get their mammograms.

I have actually driven by and seen this huge array of hanging bras. Once you see it, it leaves a lasting message to make sure that I have had or have booked my mammogram.

Women from all around Texas will bring or mail her their bras in an effort to make sure this visual message is plainly seen.

Mrs. Clark has about 500 feet of bras hanging all around her house.....NOT out there drying, but delivering a very important message!

Men can also develop breast cancer and for this reason, she has started hanging mens ties as a reminder for them to be tested.

Such a wonderful idea that can possibly save lives to those who see this and make the call to their doctor to schedule a mammogram...

I've had mine....have you?

Shug...

Just me Writing...

2026-10-19T07:10:04.858-05:00

Just me Writing.....

I believe we all need a little more laughter and a whole lot less seriousness. Life gives us plenty to worry about without us forgetting how to have a little fun along the way... Worry examples: The cost of living, health issues, loneliness, our children and grandchildren, having enough money saved for the future, the uncertainty of things we simply cannot control....the world today....etc.

I do love being silly sometimes and finding humor in the simplest things. I even laugh at myself from time to time. Like yesterday, I was outside trimming the pot plants back and taking what I had trimmed off, over to the dumpster.

Suddenly, I found myself on the ground. My foot had stepped into a gopher hole and in a matter of seconds, I was on the ground, laughing at myself. I didn't have any injuries...just a little soreness. The thing was...Sam, Ty and Trista were all outside, just steps away from me and none of them ever knew. They were busy putting the cover on the greenhouse! Sam was giving the orders as to how the cover needed to fit...😂

Goofy moments can sometimes turn into the sweetest memories and I love this about life. Forget about the worries and just have fun like this little fellow above...

↑↑↑↑

I don't ever want to get so old that I forget how to enjoy life. We only get one trip through this beautiful life, and I plan to sprinkle as much glitter....love....laughter....and happiness into mine for as long as I possibly can...

I believe God gave us laughter for a reason. Laughter helps us make it through all of the valleys we walk through.... along with Laughter,Prayer, and the Grace of God!!!!

I've got a fun assignment for you to do today, and I promise it won't cost you anything.

First....find yourself a mirror. Now look straight into it, raise those eyebrows as high as they'll go, wrinkle up your nose, puff out your cheeks, and make the silliest face you possibly can!

Go ahead...nobody is watching. While you are standing there looking like you've completely lost your marbles, Give yourself a big ol' grin and say "well, would you look at that!! I've still go a little silly left in me!" Believe me, it works!!

If someone catches you and asks what in the world has gotten into you, just smile and say, "Shug told me to do it!"

Love y'all...

Shug.....😃

When Time Runs Out...

2026-10-18T09:41:59.054-05:00

When Time Runs Out, What Really Matters?

I’ve been thinking about something lately, and the more I think about it, the more I realize just how much our priorities can change as we get older.

When we’re younger, we sometimes spend so much time wanting the best of everything. A nicer car, a bigger home, expensive clothes, or a beautiful watch. We work hard for these things, and there’s nothing wrong with enjoying what we’ve worked for. But as the years go by, I find myself asking a different question…

When our time here on earth is over, how much of that stuff will really matter?

Think about something as simple as a watch.

A Timex might cost $40, while a Rolex could cost $40,000. Yet both do exactly the same thing. They tell us what time it is. I do not own a timex and I certainly do not own a Rolex.

And that got me thinking…We spend so much of our lives wanting bigger, better, newer, and more expensive things. We sometimes convince ourselves that having the very best means we are living our very best life.

But does it?

When our time here on earth comes to an end, that expensive Rolex will keep ticking, just as the inexpensive Timex will. Neither one will care who wore it, how much money was spent on it, or how important its owner might have been.

And neither one is going to heaven with us.

The truth is, God doesn’t measure the value of our lives by the price tags on our possessions. He looks at something far more precious…our hearts.

Did we love others? Did we lend a helping hand when someone needed us? Did we offer forgiveness, show compassion, encourage someone who was struggling, or give without expecting anything in return?

Those are the things that matter.

There’s nothing wrong with owning beautiful things or enjoying the blessings God has given us. But somewhere along the way, we need to remember that the finest things in life aren’t always the things money can buy.

A Rolex might impress the people around us, but a kind heart can leave an impression that lasts for generations.

And y’all, here’s something worth thinking about…

One day, every clock we own will continue marking the hours, but our earthly time will have come to an end. The possessions we worked so hard to collect will belong to someone else. What will remain is the love we shared, the lives we touched, the faith we lived, and the difference we made.

We can’t take our watches, our houses, or our bank accounts to heaven. But the love we give in Jesus’ name has an eternal significance that no earthly treasure could ever match.

So perhaps the most important question isn’t whether we’re wearing a Timex or a Rolex. It’s what we’re doing with the time God has given us.

Because when it’s all said and done, it’s not about how much our watch was worth.

It’s about how much our time was worth to someone else. ❤️

Shug......

Migrating Trampolines

2026-10-17T07:28:24.525-05:00

As seen on Wildlife and social media reports....it is now the start of Fall trampoline migration season. 😂

According to experts, the North American Backyard Trampoline (Bouncus Maximus) is a seasonal migratory species that typically remains dormant throughout the summer before becoming airborne during the first significant wind event of Autumn.

Per "Texas Inspiration"

I thought this Joking post was funny.... I've actually seen flying trampolines cross over fences and end up in a pasture 200 feet away.

Even though it was very windy around here yesterday, I did not see any trampolines flying through the air.

Y'all have a great day...

Shug...

About the Barb-bob wire fence

2026-10-15T07:57:24.013-05:00

Y'all, I have a question for you this morning, and I have a feeling the answers might depend on which side of the country you grew up on.

Do you call it BOB WIRE or BARB WIRE?

Now, I know the proper name is barbed wire, but down here in Texas, I’ve heard it called everything from barb wire to bob wahr! And truthfully, I don’t think those cows standing on the other side of the fence care one bit what we call it.

The cows know that it’s there for a reason!

I learned a lesson about Barb wire fences the hard way!

Let me take y’all back a few years. Okay, maybe more than a few, but who’s counting?

I was just a young girl, spending time at my grandmother’s house. My cousin and I were doing what kids did back then. We were outside, entertaining ourselves, climbing trees, and probably doing a few things our parents would have frowned upon.

We had decided that climbing a pine tree sounded like a wonderful idea.

Anyone who knows anything about pine trees knows those limbs aren’t exactly made for supporting little girls with big adventures on their minds.

But did we know that?

Apparently not!

Up we went, climbing higher and higher, feeling pretty proud of ourselves.

And then it happened.

CRACK!

The limb I was standing on decided it had held me long enough!

Down I came!

And wouldn’t you know it, of all the places my body could have landed was right beside the fence we had just used to climb up into the tree on. My thumb found the BARBED WIRE FENCE!

Not the soft grass. Not a nice little pile of pine straw.

NOPE!

My hand met that rusty, sharp, unforgiving wire, and my thumb paid the price!

I can still remember that awful cut.

It's barely visible now, but inside that black circle above was my long scar.

Now, if you grew up in my generation, you already know what happened next.

There was no rushing to an urgent care clinic. No fancy first-aid kit with twenty-seven different kinds of bandages.

We had Ma Bertha, (My grandmother) who seemed to be well educated in taking care of cuts like this.

And Grandmother had something that could supposedly cure just about anything.

MERCUROCHROME!

Oh, mercy!

Does anybody else remember that little bottle of reddish-orange medicine?

That stuff was a childhood legend! Scraped knees, cut fingers, bicycle wrecks, you name it. If you were bleeding, somebody was headed for the Mercurochrome bottle!

Ma Bertha, took one look at my thumb and went straight into action.

Out came that famous little bottle, and onto my thumb went the medicine. Then she found a clean handkerchief, tore off a strip, and pulled that cut together, wrapping it nice and tight.

And just like that, according to Ma Bertha, I was going to live, and she sent us right back outside to play..

One thing I can tell you for certain…I never again had the desire to climb a tree anywhere near a barbed wire fence!

Funny how some childhood lessons don’t require a second teaching.

And speaking of barbed wire…

Have y’all ever stopped to think about how much of that stuff stretches across the United States?

Miles and miles and MILES of it! Here in Texas,

it runs alongside country roads, stretches across pastures, separates ranches, and marks property lines that have been there longer than some of us have been alive.

Some of it is shiny and new, stretched tight between sturdy fence posts. Other stretches are rusty, sagging, and held together by what looks like a little wire, a prayer.

If those old fences could talk, can you imagine the stories they could tell?

Shug.....

Wordless Wednesday.

2026-10-14T08:46:43.813-05:00

Wordless Wednesday.....

Shug.....

Our Weekend

2026-10-13T08:16:24.135-05:00

Good morning from my little part of the world. My coffee is hot and it is tasting so yummy this morning, but my brain is still trying to boot up. Maybe another cup of coffee will get it on track.

Pads for oil wells as seen from the sky...

Our trip to West Texas was everything good!! Y'all.....there are so many wonderful people in this world.

I had all the help that I needed in helping Sam on and off of the plane.

We had a wheelchair for Sam the moment the planes landed and he was taken from one gate to the next with no issues at all..

And then, on each flight, there where such kind men that helped me with our carry-on luggage.

Loved seeing these oil wells

The reason for our trip!!

↓↓↓↓↓

Baby Rowan made his

entrance into the world.

6 lbs... 9 ou...

19 in long.

We had lunch with our other two grandsons and their families at the cutest garden center.

I don't even remember the name of it...but it was such a neat place.

Sounds odd to have lunch at a garden center doesn't it.

This place was so cute. The restaurant was connected to the greenhouses with a huge eating area amongst on of the plants and trees.

Of course...it was air conditioned!!

To sum up our Saturday, Sunday and Monday....We flew to West Texas, got a rent car....checked in to our hotel...Sam rested and then we spent time with family.

Made a couple trips to the hospital to visit Rowan, his mommy and daddy....and then spent more time with family.

The blessings were overflowing this past weekend and this was a trip that Sam and I truly enjoyed.

Again, I want to say that there really are some very kind people in this world.

Love and Hugs,

Shug....

Short Trip!!

2026-10-10T07:29:47.893-05:00

It's a beautiful Saturday right here where I'm at.. I'm sitting on a plane in Dallas, getting ready to fly out to West Texas.

Great Grandson is being delivered today!! This will be our 4th great grand child. Sam is on this flight with me!!! This is so important to Sam to be able to see the baby, and to be there for our grandson and his wife.. He is truly a family man. I want Sam to be able to do the things that he feels he can do..

So far... this early morning, he has done well.. I requested a wheel chair for him and this has made the trip very easy. He has had to walk maybe a 100 steps!

This is going to be a very short trip and the good thing is, he will be able to get the rest he needs.

prayers please for a healthy delivery and healthy baby... prayers for Mom too!

Loves!!

Shug!!

Shopping Day

2026-10-09T07:40:21.029-05:00

Good Friday morning, y’all!

Seriously, didn’t we just have Monday? October is already flying by, and before we know it, we’ll be carving turkeys and untangling Christmas lights!

Yesterday was one of those days that reminded me just how much fun you can have with a little shopping, a little laughter, and some good company.

I spent the day with my niece, Tammy, and let me tell you, we had ourselves a good time!

I picked her up around 9:00, and off to town we went. Naturally, our first stop was Chick-fil-A. Some folks need coffee to get their motors running, but Tammy and I needed a big ol’ cup of sweet tea!

We had a little shopping mission in mind. Tammy wanted to find some cute fall decorations to spruce up her room. But before we could get serious about pumpkins, leaves, and all things autumn, we had another important item on our agenda.

A dress for the wedding!

The very FIRST dress Tammy tried on was perfect! It looks so nice on her!!

I wanted to throw confetti! No endless trips to the dressing room, no debating between twelve different outfits, and no “Well, maybe we should keep looking.”

One dress. One happy girl. Mission accomplished!

Next stop was Michael’s, where we hoped to find some fall treasures. Apparently, though, autumn has already been given its eviction notice! Christmas decorations are moving in fast.

We came out empty-handed.

By this time, all that shopping had worked up an appetite. We decided on an early lunch at Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant, and oh, was it good!

Good Mexican food, great conversation, and absolutely no reason to hurry. We talked, laughed, and solved a few of life’s problems. She told me all about her friends and the fun they have in class and on the softball field...

The home where Tam lives is a wonderful place for young adults with disabilities. We are Blessed to have a place that Tammy loves and a place that takes care of all her needs. Best part? It is only 10 minutes away from our home.

After lunch, we made a stop at Dollar Tree. Because, honestly, is a shopping day even complete without wandering through Dollar Tree to see what you didn’t know you needed?

Then it was on to Hobby Lobby!

We finally found plenty of autumn goodies, and Tammy was in her element.

She found the cutest little Christmas tree, but here’s the fun part. Instead of decorating it for Christmas, she picked out some adorable FALL decorations to hang on it!

A fall tree! How cute is that?

She also found some pretty little lights to hang in her room. Her room is going to have that cozy feel and this makes me smile for her.

Of course, we couldn’t call it a successful shopping trip without one final important stop.

SNACKS!

Let’s just say Tammy is now well stocked in the snack department. She should be able to survive a rainy weekend or a good movie marathon.

By the time we finished our running around, we had checked off our shopping list, filled our stomachs, collected a few treasures, and shared plenty of laughs along the way.

My favorite part of the entire day wasn’t the shopping, the food, or even finding that perfect dress on the first try.

It was simply spending time together.

Happiness in an ordinary Thursday, conversations over Mexican food, laughter in the dressing room, and making memories with people we love.....this all makes for a very special day!!!

We didn’t do anything fancy. We just spent a day together, and sometimes that’s more than enough.

And now, here we are at Friday again!

I hope your weekend brings you a little sunshine, something good to eat, a reason to laugh, and time with someone who makes your heart happy.

Happy Friday, y’all! 🍁

Good company, sweet memories, and remembering that the best things we bring home from a shopping trip don’t always fit into a shopping bag! Things I love and appreciate...

Shug..💛

BTW: I had a good nights rest...I actually slept for 7 1/2 hours with the sleep apnea mask on.. Must have been in a deep sleep because I didn't even realize I had the mask on.. WIN!! WIN!!

Bed Partner and a dinner

2026-10-07T14:34:44.486-05:00

Here it is...another week, another week of busyness. It's Wednesday and I am already two days behind.

First of all...I want to share with you all, My new bed partner.... "Gusty-Flo."

Gusty Flo and I made it through the night last night, but I'm not sure how good things are going.

I thought I was going to wake up, FULL of energy and moving with speed. NOPE...didn't happen!!

Gusty Flo blows in my face all night, hogs my nightstand, and wakes me up numerous times during the night.

The first night, GF gave me a headache so I ended up connecting with it for only 4 1/2 hours. Last night....oh my... UP and DOWN, UP and DOWN!!

I felt strapped down...would you believe that I even had to take my necklace off during the night? I Never take my necklace off, but for some reason, it was adding to my anxiety of having this breathing machine on my face.

I know I will get it, but for now....I am tired. I feel like I've been in a wrestling match and I didn't come out the winner. LOL.

I'm beginning to think my tiredness might have less to do with needing more sleep and a whole more to do with my latest project.

I am in the middle of making 10 centerpieces for a special dinner that Sam is hosting on October 30th for the stockholders of the Nursery. He (Sam) has me to take care of everything, which makes me think that I AM hosting the party!!

Of course, I can never seem to do anything the easy way. what starts with "Oh, I'll just make a few centerpieces," somehow turns into flowers, supplies scattered everywhere, and me making an extra trip or two to the store.

Truthfully, I do enjoy staying busy. It just makes me short on blogging. Oh well...I will catch up soon..

Y'all have a blessed and beautiful day...

shug...

A cute Story

2026-10-06T07:48:31.348-05:00

Happy Tuesday morning, Y'all!

It is 60 degrees outside this morning... can I now say "It's Fall, Y'all?"

🌻🍁🌻🍁🌻

The cooler weather isn't the only thing putting a smile on my face....

"Pie Pumpkins"

Yesterday, my daughter Shanda called me and she began laughing...

"Mom, I have to tell you what Baylee did."

When somebody starts a conversation like that, you already know you're about to hear something good. 💛

Baylee works with Shanda, and the two of them make a great team as dyslexia specialist. Not only are they both great teachers, they are so loved by their students.

Baylee has a son named Creed, who is in kindergarten.

Well, Creed came home from school with a note from his teacher. It was officially pumpkin time, and each child needed to bring a small “pie pumpkin” to school—the little 6-inch-or-so pumpkins they would be using for activities over the next few weeks.

Simple enough, right?

Apparently not. 😂

Somewhere between reading “pie pumpkin” and getting dinner fixed for the family, Baylee’s brain rearranged those two little words.

So the next morning, Creed proudly headed off to kindergarten carrying…

A PUMPKIN PIE.

Y’all. 😂😂😂

Not a pumpkin.

Not a little pumpkin.

Not even a pumpkin that could someday become a pie.

An actual, ready-to-eat pumpkin pie.

I can only imagine Creed walking into that classroom like, “Here is my pumpkin pie!"

Can you imagine the look on his teacher's face?? I am guessing she probably ran back to her desk to re-read that note.....

Children arriving with cute little pumpkins and Creed came strolling in ready for Thanksgiving dessert.

Of course, Baylee quickly realized there had been a tiny misunderstanding.

Pie pumpkin. Pumpkin pie. (even dyslexia teachers can make mistakes, right?"

Same two words.

VERY different school supplies. 😂

I have to say, I think Baylee deserves a little credit. She may have misunderstood the assignment, but she certainly upgraded it. The teachers asked for a pumpkin and that woman sent breakfast, dessert.

Poor Creed, he probably didn’t think anything about it. When you’re in kindergarten and your mama hands you a pumpkin pie to take to school, you just grab that pie and go!

🌻 And this is exactly why I love these everyday little stories. Life gives us plenty of serious moments, but every now and then it hands us something so silly and innocent that you just have to laugh.

Fun part of life: October mornings, little boys carrying pies to school, busy mamas who occasionally read things backwards, and teachers who made Creed feel excited about his pie.

And to Baylee…

This is a "fun-tastic" memory that your family will enjoy for years to come. 😂

Happy Tuesday, y’all! 🎃🥧❤️

Shug....

* BTW...October is Dyslexia Awareness month!!!

Coffee, Weather, V-Neck

2026-10-04T10:48:28.286-05:00

Sunday Morning ☕🍂

Well, y’all… this is coffee-sipping weather.

The temperature is hanging out in the low 70s, the sky is cloudy, and for once I can step outside without immediately wondering why I chose to live somewhere that tries to bake me alive half the year. 😂 It truly feels great out on the back porch.

I love a cloudy Sunday morning. It makes that first cup of coffee taste a little better.... Just a favorite cup, a comfortable chair, and a few quiet minutes to watch the morning unfold.

..........The cloudy skies, the cooler air, a warm cup between my hands, a warm blanket in my lap, and a grateful heart. These are the good things of life.

God gives us these little pauses. Moments to slow down, look around, and realize just how many blessings are tucked into an ordinary morning.

Today I’m sipping my coffee a little slower, enjoying this beautiful change in the weather, and thanking God for another Sunday.

I'm pretty sure that this one cup of coffee will soon turn into two…. 😂☕🍂

🍁🍂🍁🍂🍁🍂🍁

Our kids have all be gone this weekend....they traveled out to West Texas to visit their kids...(my grandkids)

AND......

Sam and I have probably spent too much time in our recliners....watching TV. this weekend. We did venture out to the mall yesterday afternoon to shop for a new suit for Sam.

Wedding is coming up in about 4 weeks, so we needed to get this taken care of.

We found him a very nice Navy Blue suit and he looks so handsome in it!! Well, he's handsome anyways, but the suit really does look great on him.

After we finished shopping, we decided to grab a late lunch at "Longhorn Steak House." We split the hamburger steak with mushrooms....(I love their mushrooms) and Sam got a salad with no lettuce!!!

Yes, there is such a thing. His bowl was filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, croutons and cheese...

I ordered their strawberry salad as my side.. It was so GOOD.

We came home and he slept the rest of the afternoon...

I made a pot of homemade Chili..

💛💛💛💛💛💛

For all you sweet ladies out there....I need help deciding on a necklace to go with my dress for the wedding.

This dress has a beautiful V-neck that is lined with stones.

I need something that is heavier than a single stone, and something that will give me some coverage as well...

Sorry...me with no make-up!!

Any Suggestions???

Wishing you all a Blessed Day....

It's a beautiful Sunday, a wonderful day to Praise the Lord, and a sweet day for some rest...

Shug....

Rain and A Secret...

2026-10-02T07:16:22.102-05:00

Happy Friday morning !! ☔️

East Texas finally go some much needed rain, and y'all, what a welcome sight it was. We have had so many dry days and have been under a burn ban for a couple of months now.

It was wonderful, hearing the raindrops on the roof and watching the ground soak up every drop.

BTW...also pictured in this photo are the straps that secure the pool cover! lol 😂

________

I've been keeping a secret for about a year now and I am happy to say that I can now share it with you all.

Yesterday was a really big day.....

Texas Parks and Wildlife purchased a huge portion of the Nursery Land!!!! Papers were signed yesterday. On what has been family land for over 80 plus years, will now be a soon coming ......Texas State Park and Wildlife (PARK)

The family kept a completely separate farm that is nearby where we can continue to fish, hunt and enjoy the outdoors.

Come Spring....(April) the Pecan Nursery will actually close it's doors. Sam will be retiring!!

This is all a little bittersweet, but yet it is a huge blessing for all.

We are all so very excited!!!

Hopefully, in a few years when the park is completed, some of you can come and visit this beautiful part of the country...

Wishing you all a wonderful day...

Shug...

Pumpkins have arrived..

2026-09-30T07:05:06.678-05:00

The Pumpkins Have Arrived! 🎃

Well, y’all, the pumpkins have officially arrived at our local grocery store!

I walked through the doors.... they immediately caught my eye.... A huge stack of pumpkins—orange, white, green, striped, smooth, bumpy, big and little. I forgot for a minute what I had even gone to the store for. Of course, out came my phone. You know me…if it catches my eye, there’s probably going to be a picture. Or maybe 5-6.... 😂

Seeing all those pumpkins made me smile because it means fall is finally trying to make its way to us. I'm thinking that Texas has finally gotten the message that it's pumpkin season.

I especially love the unusual pumpkins. Give me the funny-shaped one with the crooked stem or the one covered in bumps. They aren’t perfect, but they sure stand out in the crowd. The orange pumpkins really speak Fall, but the unusual ones bring a lot of character to the season.

Maybe we could learn a little from those pumpkins. We spend way too much time worrying about our imperfections when those very things are often what make us interesting, memorable, and uniquely us. God never intended for us all to be exactly alike.

Life gives us a few bumps, too. A few crooked places. Seasons we wouldn’t have chosen. But then a new season comes along and reminds us that change isn’t always something to dread. Sometimes it brings exactly what our heart needed.

So yes, I went to the grocery store and came home thinking about pumpkins and life. Can you believe that I didn't purchase one?

Only me, y’all. 😂🎃

…I’m ready for fall.

This recipe sounds pretty good. These are next on my list to make!!

Shug...... make it a great day y'all...

The Kitchen.. the heart of the Home

2026-09-29T08:15:39.340-05:00

The Kitchen Really Is the Heart of the Home ❤️

I’ve always loved the saying “The kitchen is the heart of the home.” And I think there’s a lot of truth in those few words.

I even have a sign in my kitchen that says: "This kitchen is for dancing." Over the years, there has been a lot of dancing...mostly my grandkids.

Trista and Tyler doing a little dance way back in the day!!

I honestly think there is something about having a space you love that makes cooking enjoyable. Where you bake fresh breads, cookies and cakes.....or where you enjoy building flavors into meals that your family loves.

My idea of a dream kitchen isn’t necessarily the biggest or fanciest one. Just plenty of counter space, good lighting, things within easy reach, and a big island where people can gather. A kitchen where family and friends can pull up a stool and visit while I cook—or better yet, help!

Some of the best conversations happen standing around a kitchen island. Family gathers there. Friends wander in there. Grandchildren come looking for snacks there. Lots of memories are made in one simple space. Old pans, dishes, even a tea picture... These are things that our kids and grandkids take with them throughout the years... "Do you remember that old wooden spoon that Shug used to use?" These are the memories I hope my grands take with them.

And maybe that’s exactly why the kitchen really is the heart of the home.

It isn’t because of the cabinets, the appliances, the countertops, or even the food.

It’s because it’s a place where we create, gather, feed, talk, laugh, and love. I remember my grandmother's kitchen... Old? Yes! It was a huge open room with a table in the middle with plenty of chairs, cabinets all around the walls, and always, the smell of something cooking on the stove.

So now I want to know…

What is your favorite part of your kitchen...??

The design, the organization, or the love that pours in each time your family gathers?

Today....I'll be making a "German Chocolate Cake"

in my kitchen... One of Sam's absolute favorite cakes!!

Just for fun, I had AI design an open kitchen that would connect our living area to the kitchen....I enjoy watching the HGTV programs on remodeling homes and I saw a complete kitchen redo on a home yesterday.... Thought it would be fun to see what AI would come up with in our home.

_________

I want to leave y'all this morning with this gorgeous photo that my Colorado kids just sent...

Pike's Peak has snow!!

Shug....

4,527 photos...

2026-09-28T07:35:15.719-05:00

Why Do I Have 4,527 Pictures on My Phone?

Four thousand, five hundred, and twenty seven.

Am I documenting my life for the Smithsonian?

Apparently so.

Every once in a while, I decide to clean out my photos. I pour myself a cup of coffee and begin with great determination.

Delete. Delete. Delete.

Then I find a picture of one of the grandchildren from three years ago.

Well, obviously, I can’t delete that.

Then there’s a sunset.

I already have 327 pictures of sunsets, but this one is different. The clouds were prettier.

Keep.

Then come the flowers.

Why do I need 47 pictures of the same flower?

Because apparently, I was waiting for it to turn its head and smile.....Keep!

Duplicates...🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

Family pictures are impossible to delete because you can’t simply just keep one.

Obviously, I keep them all...All as in I have 5 of the same picture.

Why, Why, Why????

________

Then I discover screenshots.

Recipes I was going to make. Decorating ideas I was going to try. A blouse I was going to order.

A quote I was going to remember.

Then, I never go back to those pictures...thoughts...or whatever you want to call them...

______

Then there are the accidental pictures.

The floor. My shoe. The inside of my purse.

The dashboard.

And the horrifying accidental selfie taken from underneath my chin.

**Once I discover them, they are deleted immediately!!!

____

Then there are pictures I took so I wouldn’t forget something:

Where I parked. A price tag. The name of a plant.

I honestly have no clue how I ever managed life without my phone camera.

The truth is, mixed in with all the nonsense are little pieces of my life.

Birthdays.....Holidays.....Family gatherings.

Grandchildren growing taller.....Places I’ve been.

That’s the problem with cleaning out my phone.

Many of my photos are memories and these are terribly difficult to throw out. I have them saved in a couple of other places, but for reasons unknown, I think they need to be on my phone as well.

So after an hour of serious photo cleaning, I check my total.

I started with 4,527 pictures.

I now have….4,380 important pictures.

Excellent progress? LOL

Y'all have a good day....

Shug...

Kinda Fall-ish

2026-09-27T08:07:50.436-05:00

It is feeling kinda Fall-ish around here this morning.

This morning has that little hint of fall in the air. I'm pretending today that Texas has officially decided to cooperate with the season.

SOOOOOO.......

I decided it was time to pull out the FALL cups. Fall weather calls for a mug covered with autumn leaves and of course...a warm throw to wrap up in.

To top things off...I made two batches of Banana Nut Bread yesterday... Oh goodness, Hot coffee and a fresh slice of BNB is like a winter vacation!! lol.

A cool morning, A favorite cup, A quiet kitchen... and a delicious slice of bread... This equals peace!!

I am fully aware that this great state of Texas may decide it's summer again..(by this afternoon), but for this morning....

I am in Love!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

I'm calling this Fall 🍁🍂.....and the Fall mugs have officially been released from the cabinet. Woo Hoo!!

"Flow with the grace of change, and life will always be an adventure."

Savor the Season Y'all.

Love to all...

Shug...💛

Sitting and Reading.

2026-09-25T10:54:04.198-05:00

Well, today’s post is coming to you straight from my phone—which, apparently, has decided it gets to make the rules. 😊

For some reason, it will not allow me to post photos, and even stranger, there are only a few blogs that it will let me comment on. I have no idea why, but technology and I are not always on speaking terms!

Even though you may not see a comment from me, please know that I’ve been sitting here visiting with each of you, reading your posts, catching up on your lives, and enjoying the little glimpses into your world. I may be quiet, but I’m still here. ❤️

Sometimes life puts us in places where all we can do is sit, wait, and take things one moment at a time. Today is one of those days. And while waiting isn’t always easy, I’m reminded that even in the waiting there are blessings—time to think, time to pray, time to appreciate the people who brighten our days, even from miles away.

And that includes all of you. Your stories, pictures, humor, encouragement, and friendship have been a welcome distraction today.

As for why I’m sitting here with so much time on my hands, Sam is receiving a new form of treatment today. This treatment involves two medications, so it takes quite a bit longer than what we have been accustomed to. We are hopeful and prayerful as he begins this next step.

So today, while Sam receives his treatment, I’ll keep scrolling, reading, visiting, and quietly saying hello to each of you—even if my stubborn phone won’t let me tell you that I stopped by.

Your prayers for Sam as he begins this new treatment would certainly be appreciated. ❤️🙏

One day at a time, one prayer at a time, and always trusting that God is right here with us through it all.

Shug...💛🍁🧡🍂

Thankful Thursday and A Dragon Fruit

2026-09-24T07:53:23.840-05:00

Well friends, our dragon fruit cactus has decided to bless us with its annual performance! The bloom really puts on a grand show that will last only a day.

Just look at this gorgeous bloom! The delicate white petals, the golden center and the sheer size of it is so fascinating.

Before you start imagining baskets overflowing with delicious dragon fruit, let me explain....our little cactus has been averaging approximately ONE bloom per year...😅

Look at this grown tree...In our area, we would have to have a huge greenhouse to grow it in. But look at the harvest.

Here is the fun part. When the one precious dragon fruit finally arrives, everybody gets a SLICE!! This is what you call "sharing the harvest." No seconds for anyone. lol.

The fruit..I personally do not care for the fruit but it gets an A+ from the rest of the family..

All kidding aside, this beautiful bloom reminds me of something worth remembering on this Thankful Thursday...

Not every blessing comes in abundance and sometimes our blessings come one at a time. A reminder that God's handiwork is all around us, even in the smallest corners of our backyard.

Today, I am thankful for this spectacular flower, for the joy of watching something grow, and for the simple pleasures that I see on Sam's face. He has worked hard to keep this plant living and if one flower brings him happiness, then I say, "thank you Lord."

Shug...

**Joining Michelle at "It's a Small Town Life" for Thankful Thursday...

Dentist, Fall and Pj''s..

2026-09-22T14:00:51.480-05:00

Good Tuesday Afternoon y'all.. First day of Fall and I can sure say that it felt nice outside this morning.. 🍁🍂

I actually took Sam to the dentist this morning. We use different dentist but I always enjoy going with him to his dentist appointments.

Dr. Allen is very talented...not only at being a dentist , but in her arts and crafts that she so enjoys.

Look at these earrings!!! She makes some of the cutest earrings and they are priced very reasonably.

I always enjoy the gorgeous wreaths that she has on display.

It truly is a joy to visit the office....

🌻💛

Guess what y'all. I have on white pants today and white tennis shoes...along with a sage and green top. The calendar says fall but my wardrobe is on the summer schedule. When the temps are still in the upper 90's, then I say "Why Not?"

I don't think it really matters any longer. Just wear what you want!!

Do you remember when people dressed up? Like moms wore dresses during the day and maybe an apron. Now days, it's PJ's all day long. (Not me)...

My pet peeve is seeing people out and about (especially the grocery store) in their PJ's. I dare not think about it!!

Anyways....this is all I have for today other than the fact that we did stop and eat at Cracker Barrel. We always get the breakfast foods and you just can't hardly go wrong with a hearty meal of eggs, biscuits, gravy, bacon and grits.... YUM!!

Y'all have a good one today!!

Shug...

Dancing Light at Six Mile.

2026-09-21T08:23:41.637-05:00

The Light That Still Dances Across Six Mile

There are places in Texas where stories do not fade with time.

They linger in the dust of old roads, drift through cedar trees, and settle quietly beside forgotten cemeteries.

Out near Llano, down an old stretch of country road near the historic Six Mile community, people still talk about a light.

This appears to be a dancing light.

A floating glow that appears without warning and disappears just as mysteriously.

The first known sighting dates all the way back to the late 1850s. A Llano merchant named Benjamin Milam Hughes was traveling the old road toward Fredericksburg when he spotted what looked like a bright flare in the distance. He was certain that it had to be a brush fire.

Only there had been no fire.

No smoke.

No burned grass.

Nothing.

And that is where the legend truly began.

For generations afterward, locals whispered about the strange glowing orb seen near Six Mile Cemetery. Many describe it the same way — a bright light beginning high in the sky before slowly drifting downward until it vanishes into darkness. Some say it appears most often during the autumn months, when the Texas air grows cooler and the nights settle in deeper and quieter.

It has been told that ghost hunters, travelers, and curious wanderers still search for it today. I find myself interested in seeing this too!!

Some claim the light moves with intention.

Others believe it watches.

The Six Mile area itself already carries enough history to stir the imagination. About eight miles west of Llano, the tiny historic community holds stories layered thick with mystery. The old cemetery has long been tied to tales of restless spirits, while the abandoned Six Mile School carries its own chilling legend involving a haunted chalkboard.

Sounds like to me that the story has really grown over the years...

Of course, skeptics have their explanations. Atmospheric reflections. Headlights from distant roads. Natural gases. Electromagnetic energy caused by friction within the earth itself. Who Knows!!!

But folks around there will often smile when science tries too hard to explain away old legends.

Because not everything eerie needs an answer. This is one story that remains untamed..

Maybe that is why the legend of the Six Mile Light still survives after all these years. Long after the wagons stopped rolling those roads. Long after the old schoolhouse emptied. Long after many names in the cemetery faded from stone.

The light still appears and they say it still dances..... It Still leaves people staring into the darkness wondering what exactly they saw.

If you ever find yourself traveling the Hill Country late at night near Llano, keep your eyes open.

Texas has always been good at holding onto its mysteries.

I read about this and thought...hey, October is just around the corner.. It might be worth a trip to try to see this mysterious light.

Shug....

Pecans and a Recipe or Two

2026-09-20T08:01:06.717-05:00

My new order of Fresh Fall Pecans arrived on Thursday....

We always order our pecans out of Arkansas and they are the best. They come from "Paw Paw's Pecans."

I ordered 20 bags, which will last all Winter and even into part of Spring. Banana Nut Bread is a favorite around here and I always double the recipe to make sure that there is enough to send home with all the kids.

Such a simple recipe that was handed down to me from my SIL's grandmother.

Not to worry...I do have the recipe written on a protected recipe card.. LOL. this is the original recipe that she gave me and it has been USED. I usually cut back on the sugar, using a cup and half instead of 2 cups.

🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁

Another Quick Recipe for Pecans is the Cinnamon Sugar Pecans...

You just can't beat a good pecan... Whether they are toasted with a sprinkle of cinnamon, baked in a home pecan pie or used in a bowl of "Snack Trash", they always bring the sweetest pleasures. Around here, we often get a small handful and just munch on them...Plus y'all...pecans are healthy for us!!

Enjoy!!

Shug....

** BTW.."Negative Anonymous" left me a comment... it appears that I should be posting about game camera stuff instead of the topics I write about. DELETE and go about MY business is what I do... LOL 😎

Saturday Talk

2026-09-19T09:14:52.872-05:00

Happy Saturday....

Anyone else having issue with your header photos on blogger? So frustrating around here. What has happened? Seems like blogger has created big issues and they are not fixing them.

Changing my header has always been a simple thing, but I have been sitting here this morning working on it for an hour. I can either post a small photo or one that is oversized. Any suggestions?

I've also been missing some of my blogging friends. Hopefully they have not given up on posting. Where are y'all???

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend...my plans are to help cover the pool (which we did not get done last weekend) and to finish making wedding flowers. I need to get these two things done this weekend.

Great news...our temps were cooler this morning!! I do have hope that Fall temps are just around the corner.

I'm going to leave y'all with a photo of my extra bedroom...you will not believe it!! Much work to be done today!! By the way, these flowers are faux flowers but they feel so REAL.. If I were to walk past an arrangement of them, I would not know they are faux.

I think I need to open another flower shop (not happening) or perhaps, build me a separate room for these kind of projects.

This is only half!!! For real!!! LOL.... Hope your day is filled with unexpected beauty!!

Shug...