JBigg's Little Pieces

Homemade Pimento Spread on Hamburgers

2012-09-01T19:39:00.000-05:00

My husband has been cooking again and we are sharing the recipe with you. He is making Old Fashion Southern Homemade Pimento Spread to go on grilled hamburgers. While he is mixing, stirring, and grilling, I have been creating my tablescape.

Take a look:

On The Menu

Garden Salad with Ranch Dressing

Old Fashion Southern Homemade Pimento Spread

Grilled hamburgers

Potato Salad

Mixed Vegtables

Sliced Fresh Tomatoes

I'm going with red, white and blue today as we celebrate Labor Day. We are certainly laboring this weekend with the cooking, table setting, and some landscaping.

It looks like I have the table set for more than four people but those are a dessert plate combo between the dinner plates.

I'm using kitchen towels as table napkins, I love the blue and white stripe in them. You can see I have tucked a napkins in the geranium container for my centerpiece.

Let's go check on the burgers. Wow, too much fire under the burgers, better move over so he can get them under control. Big always likes to use charcoal when he grills.

While Big is finishing the burgers, I sliced some of the tomatoes thin so they could go on the burgers, cut tomatoes for the salad, chopped some romaine lettuce and plated some of the potato salad.

The burgers are done and the homemade pimento spread has been added to the grilled burgers. I've never eaten pimento spread on burgers but I'm going to give it a try since Big is anxious for me to eat it.

Old Fashion Southern Homemade Pimento Spread

1 Tbs butter or margarine
1 Tbs plain flour
1 Tbs vinegar
1 tsp dry mustard
1 egg lightly beaten
4 oz. (1/2 package) cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder
1 cup grated sharp cheddar
1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 1/2 tablespoons pimentos, chopped
2 1/2 tablespoons roasted red peppers, chopped
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
4-8 oz. Velveeta cheese, shredded
Directions

In the bowl of an electric mixer (or by hand), beat cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients and continue to mix on medium speed until well combined.

Thanks for stopping by - Judy

Linking to:

On The Menu Monday at StoneGable

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

A Delightsome Life : A Return to Loveliness at Blissful Rhythm
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Marvelous Monday at This Gal Cooks
Mix It Up Monday at Flour Me With Love
Mosaic Monday at Little Red House

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe With an E

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What Is It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Transformation Thursday at Shabby Creek Cottage

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Foody Friday at Rattlebridge Farm

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Spotlight Saturday at Classy Clutter

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different, Act Normal

Saturday 7 at Positively Splendid

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Fish and Chips

2012-08-25T18:49:00.001-05:00

Today I am featuring my husband's cooking and my tablescape. It's all about fish & chips and a nice bottle of wine.

I have been getting the table ready while he is outside cooking.

The rectangle dish has such vivid colors of orange, yellow, green and blue. I sat it in a stand to show it off. I added blue glasses to bring out the blue in the dish.

I found another set of glasses at Marshall's to add to my blue Dollar Store wine glasses. The new beverage glasses are a lighter shade of blue have beautiful light green stem that is reflecting the blue from the wine glass.

I found an orange wine bottle and small fish plate to add to the bread rack. The fish plate worked well to serve extra hush puppies.

My husband has been so busy outside frying the fish, chips, and hush puppies. He has a fish breader plastic container that has a sieve type insert that allows you to turn it over and separate the fish and the excess breading.

My only contribution was mixing up the hush puppies. It wasn't too hard, add 3/4 cup of water to the mix. I did mix two batches and he added jalapenos to the second batch. The stainless steel deep fryer is by DeLongi. He used a cooking thermometer to get the oil to 400 degrees to fry the fish, chips and hush puppies.

My favorite part of the meal is the hush puppies. I did try the ones with the jalapenos and they were very tasty and the jalapenos gave them a little extra bite. He thought I would think they were too hot, but they were pretty good especially with ketchup.

In addition to the fish, chips and hush puppies, he also grilled corn.

He is so kind to our elderly neighbors, and takes plates of food to them. He likes to cook and he cook lots of it, I think we likes to be a good neighbor to them. They are sweet people and always want to send something in return, so he came home with a few tomatoes from their vines.

I made a lettuce salad to go with his fabulous cooking and did plate his food for him. He was pretty exhausted after his afternoon of cooking outside in the heat. The fish is crappie, bluegill and bass. He caught the fish when we were visiting in Illinois and he had a chance to fish with his brother and nephew.

He did enjoy a glass of Liberty Creek Merlot with his meal.

Thanks for stopping by for Fish and Chips - Judy.

Linking to these wonder parties:

On The Menu Monday at StoneGable

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

A Delightsome Life : A Return to Loveliness at Blissful Rhythm
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Marvelous Monday at This Gal Cooks

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe With an E

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Sizzle Into Summer

Ivy and Elephants for What Is It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Full Plate Thursday at Miz Helen’s Country Cottage

Tasty Thursday at The Mandatory Mooch

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Transformation Thursday at Shabby Creek Cottage

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Foody Friday at Rattlebridge Farm

Foody Friday at Simple Living

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Spotlight Saturday at Classy Clutter

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different, Act Normal

Saturday 7 at Positively Splendid

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Eating Peas

2012-08-18T13:10:00.002-05:00

My post today is all about peas, I have used them in my tablescape with the salad plates featuring peas and pea pods. Take a look, then we can talk more about peas.

I must admit, I am not a huge lover of peas and plainly remember Mom serving peas as a side dish when I was growing up. Too bad we didn't have a house dog that would sit by me and I could sneak him my peas under the table but no such luck! I remember swallowing them whole because I couldn't stand their taste.

Now you have seen my table with my pea salad plates and know my thoughts about eating peas as a young girl, so let's talk further about peas.

Could you eat them in a salad with other vegetables and maybe a little Thousand Island Dressing?

photo from: http://www.wikihow.com/Eat-Peas

Could you eat them mixed with a can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup then poured over a bowl of rice?

photo from: http://www.wikihow.com/Eat-Peas

If you are eating peas served on a plate, you have to decide what's the best way to get them to your mouth. Do you fork the peas and try to get one on each prong? A spoon would make it easier but may not be proper etiquette at a formal dinner table.

Could you eat them in a 7 Layer Salad?

For me, about the only way I can eat peas is in a salad. It could be in the first salad above or my favorite way to peas is in 7 Layer Salad which I am serving today on my pea salad plate.

This recipe has been around for years and is perfect for cookouts, potlucks, and holidays. The salad is made with 7 layers usually lettuce, sometimes tomatoes, slice boiled eggs, peas, celery, bacon and cheese. Then topped with a thick layer of a mayonnaise based dressing or maybe even Ranch Dressing. Then chilled and tossed before eating.

While the eggs were cooking, I put most of my layers together. I used Hearts of Romaine Lettuce, crumbled the extra bacon that my husband cooked for breakfast, added the cheese and peas.

We like dill in the salad so I added dill under the mayo layer and also mixed a little dill in with the mayonnaise. A couple packets of Splenda were added to the mayo for a little added sweetness. I love the taste of dill when I'm eating the salad, maybe it drowns out the taste of the peas, I'm not sure.

My 7 Layer Salad is now ready to chill.

My salad has been tossed and served.

Thanks for stopping by and listening to my thoughts about peas - Judy.

How about sharing your favorite way to eat peas.

Linking to:

On The Menu Monday at StoneGable

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

A Delightsome Life : A Return to Loveliness at Blissful Rhythm
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe With an E

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What Is It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Transformation Thursday at Shabby Creek Cottage

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Foody Friday at Designs by Gollum

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Spotlight Saturday at Classy Clutter

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different, Act Normal

Saturday 7 at Positively Splendid

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Victorian Italianate House Tour - Part 2

2012-08-12T13:12:00.000-05:00

I am going to continue the house tour of a beautiful Victorian Italianate house I started recently. The tour originally began early this summer when I gave you a garden tour of Ira Shuemaker's garden in Cairo, Illinois, then continued with a tour of part of the inside of the house (Part 1) and now I am going to complete the tour with a showing of the library and dining room (Part 2). So sit back and enjoy.

We'll walk along the sidewalk and up the front steps and enter the foyer. Get ready to be wowed!

Now that we are inside, this time we will turn to the left and enter the front parlor now the library. This room is a vibrant color of blue. Sitting on the mantel is another piece of Old Paris china that you saw in Part 1 of the tour.

The print over the fireplace is an Audubon elephant folio print of warblers and possibly an original.

Look up a little and see the chandelier in this room. All the chandeliers in the house were redesigned by Ira and Chris Morgan by adding crystal prisms and crystal beads. All the ceilings and cornices in the house had fallen when Ira purchased the home so you can image the renovation put into the house.

To the right of the fireplace, I bet you noticed the table and mirror with more pieces of Old Paris china.

On the opposite side of the library stands the china hutch with most of the Old Paris collection of china. Note the scone with candles and sparkling crystals also redesigned by Ira and Chris.

Let's turn to the left and look to the back parlor which is now their dining room. The walls are painted yellow. You can't help but notice the gorgeous chandelier also redesigned by Ira and Chris.

To the right of the dining room table is another gorgeous fireplace with additional pieces of Old Paris and a grand crystal candelabras with crystal droplets.

To the left of the dining room table sits a table with matching crystal candelabras with crystal droplets adding by Ira and Chris, a tea set and beautiful oil painting.

I love the reflection of the chandelier in the mirror in this image.

Before Ira retired and returned to his hometown of Cairo, he was a professor at North Texas State in the Interior and Design Department, so now you understand his love for the design and renovation of his home.

I hoped you have enjoyed Part 2 of this house tour. Do you have a favorite room, detail or item in the house, if so, leave a message and let me know? Thanks for joining me on the tour - Judy

If you missed the prior tours, here are the links: Part 1 and the Garden Tour.

Note - Ira's niece, Loarna is my good friend that I have know since we were young girls on a swim team together. So it's through Loarna that I have gotten to know Ira and able to tour his fabulous home. Thanks Loarna and Ira!!

Linking to:

Susan at BetweenNaps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

Make It Pretty Monday at The Dedicated House
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Marvelous Mondays at Jam's Corner
Debbiedoo's
A Delightsome Life: A Return to Loveliness

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe With an E

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Sizzle Into Summer

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday
Transformation Thursday at Shabby Creek Cottage

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Spotlight Saturday at Classy Clutter

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different, Act Normal

Saturday 7 at Positively Splendid

Simply Klassic Home for Simply Klassic Sunday

Overflowing With Creativity at It's Overflowing

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Victorian Italianate House Tour - Part 1

2012-08-03T13:08:00.004-05:00

Early this summer I gave you a garden tour of Ira Shuemaker's garden in Cairo, Illinois, and left you with the statement that I would return to Cairo later in the summer and hoped to take pictures of the inside of the house. I did return in late July and took pictures to share with you.

This Victorian Italianate home was built in 1867 and Edwin Halliday moved his belongings in 1872.

Let's go up the steps and enter the foyer. Do remember that the house was in ruins when Ira purchased it so a complete renovation was needed. Ira was a professor at North Texas State in the Interior and Design Department when he retired and returned to his home town of Cairo.

Look up at the lighting in the foyer.

The floor is made from most of the original board then painted by Ira and Chris Morgan. That's one of their boxers standing in the foyer.

There are room on both sides of the foyer, we will start on the left.

Do you like chandeliers? I'll show you several today. All were redesigned by Ira and Chris by adding crystal prisms and crystal beads.

I want you to see a little more of the mirror and especially the top piece on it. The head of the Department of Art Education at North Texas State painted the oval watercolor. I'll show you a close up of it. Also that Ira you are seeing in the mirror.

Ira made the mirrors himself. You realize when you look at this closeup that the mirror and top piece are mounted then molding added to the piece. Pretty impressive work.

Now, look a little higher at the ceiling. All the ceilings in the house had fallen when Ira bought it so all have been restored by them.

The gold and white china on the mantel are pieces from their Old Paris collection.

To the right of the fireplace sits this grand crystal candelabras with crystal droplets.

I'll turn around so can see the opposite wall of the fireplace. Note the scone with candles and sparkling crystals.

Now I'll back up so you can see the doorway on the left we came through and a bigger shot of the room.

I'll turn the camera to the left so you can begin to see the other other this one opens into. Here's a shot to the left of these two chairs. Lots of candles on the table and a tea set of their Old Paris china collection. Look closely and on the left side of the table is a small painting of the outside of their home and on the right side is a small replica of the house.

The painting on the left was painted by local artist, Alice Johnston, also a native of Cairo. The ornament on the right was made in Texas by a friend of a friend of Ira's. His friend, Judy Youngblood, gave a picture of the house to a friend of hers to design the ornament. The base of it was made from file folders.

Ok, let's go back through the doorway and through the foyer and into the library and dining room.

Oh friends in case you are getting a little tired or need to stop for lunch, I am going to stop here and divide this tour into two parts, so come back soon and I'll give you the rest of the tour (Part 2 - the library and dining room).

Thanks for stopping in for the glorious Victorian Italianate House Tour Part 1 - Judy.

Thanks to my good friend, Loarna (Ira's niece) and Ira for letting me capture the elegance and beauty of this home.

Linking to:

Susan at BetweenNaps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

The Delectable Home
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Marvelous Mondays at Jam's Corner

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

You're Gonna Love It Tuesday at Kathe With an E
The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Sizzle Into Summer

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday
Transformation Thursday at Shabby Creek Cottage

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Spotlight Saturday at Classy Clutter

Show and Tell Saturday at Be Different, Act Normal

Saturday 7 at Positively Splendid

Simply Klassic Home for Simply Klassic Sunday

Overflowing With Creativity at It's Overflowing

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Hydrangea Hunting

2012-07-29T19:55:00.000-05:00

Oh how I love hydrangeas even though I don't have a single one in my own yard.

When I was visiting family and friends in Illinois, I decided to go on a hydrangea hunt to see if I could find the gorgeous blues and pinks.

Here are the blues that I found in a friend's yards.

Aren't these blues just gorgeous?

I did a little research and did you know that it is much easier to change the pink hydrangeas to blue ones than changing the blue to pink?

The mophead hydrangea have the ability to change the color of the blooms based on the chemistry of the soil. When they are grown in alkaline soil, the blooms colors are pinker; but when grown in acidic soil, the blooms are blue.

I read that they do like water and the leaves will droop if they do not get enough. Too much water, and the leaves will begin to get brown or black marks on the edges.

Now for the pinks in another friend's yard.

You can see a little mix in one of these mopheads, do you see the second one from the top and how it is a mix of blue and pink?

Aren't they all just fabulous. I love both colors and they always bring back memories from my childhood of my grandmother's yard when they were blooming along the entire side of her house.

Do you have a preference for the color of hydrangea you like? - Judy

Linking to:

Susan at BetweenNaps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill
My entry into Make the Scene Monday #33 is sponsored by Appliances Online & Bosch Washing Machines.

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Favorite Photo Monday

The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

First Blogging Anniversary

2012-07-23T17:24:00.000-05:00

This week will mark my first year blogging anniversary. It doesn't seem like I have been blogging a year; when I started, I wasn't sure exactly what I was going to blog about. I really just started to help my friend JoAnn with her blog. My blog began with a few tabletop vignettes, outdoor posts, vacations, then slowing developed into tablescapes. That's where I found what I really like to blog about, beautiful tablescapes.

I do want to thank all of you for visiting and leaving kind messages. To celebrate, I have created a tablescape using pink and white and a centerpiece featuring my crepe myrtle blooms.

Come along and help me celebrate:

I have loved crepe myrtles for years, I remember traveling in the South during the hot, hot summer and seeing the crepe myrtles with their brilliant blooms. While so many other flowers, shrubs and trees had bloomed out, or were wilting in the heat, the crepes were just gorgeous.

I had my husband cut the branches because they were covered in bees and I was too afraid of getting stung. No problem, he didn't get a single string. I was standing back with a container for them and too fearful to get close and ready to run. My crepe myrtles are miniature so don't grow as tall as their cousins.

Back in the house, I placed them in my little white teapot and kept the arrangement low so no interference with conversation at the table especially since I am a big talker.

For my stemware, I chose my pink Fostoria Heritage water goblets then added four green wine glasses. I was happy I added the green, it went well with the green leaves in the plates and seemed to pop when I sat them on the table.

I was hurrying through Marshall's recently and spied the pink salad plates. I think the flower is a peony which blooms in the Spring but the color works well on this summer tablescape.

The dinner plates are inexpensive but have some nice beading on them.You can see I left the teapot lid on the table next to the pot, it was just too cute to remove.

The pink napkins are from Kohl's and are circled with silver napkin rings.

The tablecloth is a floral embroidered and from Germany (purchased on eBay). I think of it as a tabletop piece because it is very small and only measures 32"x32". I added a white larger tablecloth underneath to make the table a little more elegant.

The flowers on the crepe myrtle are very delicate, I could hardly touch them and they were falling on the table. I didn't really mind, I love seeing them scattered around. You certainly could not cut them a day ahead for your table or house.They will stain your tablecloth I found out but the stain did come out with a little spray.

Thanks for stopping in and sharing my blogiversary with me - Judy

Linking to these great parties:

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at the House in the Roses

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

The Delectable Home
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Sizzle Into Summer

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Pink Saturday at How Sweet The Sound

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Brenda's Whimsy

2012-07-14T10:44:00.003-05:00

I am sharing the whimsy of my friend, Brenda, today. She lives in a cozy white cottage in a small town and loves the color red and lots of whimsy. She is so talented and so creative. Take a look at her yard and all of her whimsy and creativity.

As you pull into Brenda's driveway, you see this cute bench she has painted yellow and decorated her lamp post with red netting and green and white ribbon. She has a beautiful hibiscus plant with red blooms growing next to the bench.

Her front porch has pink chairs and some bright orange and pink pillows.

She added a wreath to the door made from the same netting and ribbon on the lamp post. Take a look at her ferns sitting in red pots.

Brenda's creativity continues to the side of her house where she has a small garden just outside her breezeway.

Remember, Brenda loves red, so check out this child's chair painted red, the red lantern, and the red bike.

The red bike now decorated with flowers is the biggest eye catcher in her garden. It's so Brenda, she loves to ride her other bike down the road, over the railroad track and into town. She might stop at the grocery story or the library.

I taught school with Brenda for 24 years before I moved. I do enjoy visiting with her when I return. You can see more of her garden on the back side of the breezeway if you look through the screens.

Thanks for stopping by to see Brenda's Whimsy - Judy

Linking to:

Susan at BetweenNaps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Favorite Photo Monday

The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Wimsey Wednesday
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

Yellow and Black Tablescape

2012-07-10T13:50:00.003-05:00

Welcome to my Yellow and Black Tablescape. Take a look:

My inspiration for the tablescape came from my tablecloth which is an embroidered/print/cut work tablecloth from Germany and purchased on eBay for a very reasonable price.

The daisies for the centerpiece came from my daughter's flower garden and are perfect with the tablecloth. They are so bright and cheerful, I just love their center color. The vase is Fiestaware.

Both sets of glasses are from the Dollar Store so not much expense there. I try to buy extra ones in case of breakage. Sure seems like glasses slip right out of my hand when I am washing them. I do try and put them in the dishwasher most of the time.

The yellow dinner plate and salad plate are Fiestaware. The black flatware is from Walmart, not expensive but not the best quality.

I always love to look at color combinations when I am creating tablescapes. I enjoy seeing what combinations look pleasing to my eye then hope everyone else likes it too.

On the breadrack I placed dessert bowls, extra lemonaid glasses, the lemonaid pitcher and a gravy boat.

Think I'll bring the candle from the breadrack over to the table as evening arrives for a little ambiance.

Thanks for stopping by, hope you can take time to leave a message - Judy.

Linking to:

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Show Off Your Cottage Monday at the House in the Roses

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

The Delectable Home
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday

The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Miss Robin - Update

2012-07-07T20:05:00.000-05:00

The eggs have hatched. Yes, Miss Robin is now a Mother. As we were backing out of the driveway on July 3 to go to our daughters I noticed Miss Robin still sitting on her nest. Then we returned home on July 5 and I didn't see Miss Robin at all so I was kind of nervous and worried something had happened to the eggs. I came back outside a little later on my way to the gym and look what I saw.

Oh, there are two babies, look how hungry this one is, it's mouth is wide open.

So now I am thinking, "where is your Daddy, he is supposed to be feeding you? He better get here quick.

I go on to the gym and pray nothing happens to them while I am gone. This is similar to worrying about your own kids!

Ok, back from the gym, I pull in the driveway real slow with the window rolled down and hallelujah,

Daddy Robin is on the scene and feeding his babies.

Wow, all is well with Mother Nature - Judy!

Posting to:

Smiling Sally for Blue Monday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
Favorite Photo Monday
Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Outdoor Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday

Garden Tour

2012-07-05T09:28:00.000-05:00

While visiting in Southern Illinois, I toured a friends garden in Cairo, and wanted to share it with you. Ira Shuemaker purchased the historic home years ago and slowly began to restore it when he would return to Cairo for visits. After Ira retired from Texas and returned to his birthplace of Cairo permanently, he devoted his every moment to restoring the home and now makes it his home.

Here are a couple shots of the mansion then we will move on to the garden.

How about that, isn't it beautiful? Now we can to walk into the garden. We will go through the front gate and start to the left.

There are paths leading all through the garden.

You can see their back porch where they often dine with family and friends.

There are so many interesting piece of art in the garden.

There is a path that leads to the back gate and potting shed area. My two grandsons and my daughter enjoyed the garden. I'll bring you back for a tour of the mansion when my grandsons aren't along with their quick little hands.

We can turn around and walk back to the other side of the house.

Wow, I know I have shared a lot of pictures today, but his garden is so amazing and here is a fact I have been saving. When Ira purchased the Edwin Halliday Mansion, there wasn't much of a garden at all, it was mostly just weeds, dirt and a magnolia tree. So this garden has truly been a transformation to a work of beauty and art.

Thanks for taking the tour with me, I'm going back in July so will try to take some pictures of the inside of the mansion to share with you - Judy.

Linking to:

Susan at BetweenNaps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much
Favorite Photo Monday

The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer

DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Inspiration Friday

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Natasha in OZ for Say G'day Saturday

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

Independence Day

2012-06-27T11:36:00.002-05:00

As I began to create my tablescape for the Fourth of July, I really wanted to pay tribute to our Independence Day. On this federal holiday, we love fireworks, parades, barbecues, picnics and family get-togethers.

Now take a look at my whole table.

My centerpiece is vintage inspired with an old wooden box that my husband bought several years ago. I added three potted geraniums, my Peggy Karr flag bowl, and sitting in front of the box is a wooden star a friend made for us several years ago. I thought the red candles really topped it off. My original plans for my centerpiece ended up way too big for the table and now has a prominent place on my server.

I was so happy to find patriotic napkin rings at Kohl's this week and got them at 50% off. Can you see the silver star on the ring?

Each of the cute bowls has a single star in the center. You can see that I have a mix of red and blue ones. I bought them a few years back from a friend's shop. I bought all she had but sure wish I had a few more. I've looked online but no luck either.

The geraniums are faux vining or cascading geraniums purchased a few years ago and I have not been able to find these again. Glad I bought two bunches of them!

July 4^th Dinner Menu

Grilled Hotdogs - for my grandsons

Cheese Stuffed Hamburgers
Grilled Brats
Bowtie & Shell Pasta with Chicken, Italian Sausage and Broccoli
Baked Beans
Slaw

Melon Salad

I also found a fun easy dessert my grandsons should just love, Spangled Sandwich Pops. The picture came from the site.

Thanks for stopping by to see my Independence Day tablescape.

I hope you enjoy Independence Day with your family and friends - Judy.

Tablecloth is by Pampered Chefs a few years ago.

Red placemats by Tag

White dinner plates are Dollar Store

Red dinner plates are Today's Home from Big Lots

White salad plates are Pfaltzgraff

Dessert bowls are by Tag

Blue Flatware is from Walmart

Blue Stemware is Dollar Store

White hobnail glasses, bought at a kitchen shop in Branson

Napkins are from Tuesday Morning

Linking to:

On The Menu Monday at StoneGable

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday
The Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans on Tuesday

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

DIY by Design for Sizzle Into Summer

Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

TablescapeThursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Foody Friday at Designs by Gollum

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Common Ground for Vintage Patriotic Party

Stuff and Nonsense for Friday's Unfolded

Potpourri Friday at 2805

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Miss Robin

2012-06-25T09:14:00.002-05:00

We were getting ready to go to the hardware store and my husband said, "Do you want to see a robin sitting on a nest?" Of course, and I picked up my camera and headed out the door.

There she was sitting on her nest in my River Birch Tree. I didn't want to scare her off her nest so I just zoomed in and grabbed a quick shot.Doesn't she look motherly sitting there on her nest.

After we returned from the hardware store (we are cleaning and staining our deck this weekend), I became curious and wondered how long it takes the robin eggs to hatch. So I googled it and found out it takes two weeks.

Here's what else I found:
The female robin lays one small blue egg each day to a total of three to five eggs. She feeds on earthworms in the morning in order to ensure that her body has the energy to handle the physical demands of laying an egg. Until all eggs are laid, she may limit the time she spends sitting on the nest. This is to keep the older eggs cool so that the entire clutch develops at roughly the same time. Until the eggs start to hatch in approximately two weeks, the mother rarely leaves the nest for more than five or 10 minutes at a time.

http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5419182_long-robin-eggs-hatch.html

Sorry, this is not my image but it shows a single robin egg.
http://www.learner.org/jnorth/images/graphics/n-r/robin_Brophy019.jpg

Interesting facts, I'll try to get pictures of the babies after they hatch but it may be tricky.

Linking to:

Smiling Sally for Blue Monday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
Favorite Photo Monday
Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Outdoor Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday
Nik at Floral Friday Fotos

Rollin' On the River

2012-06-24T11:48:00.004-05:00

We were recently in Southern Illinois visiting my Dad. We had our daughter and grandsons with us and took them to Cairo, Illinois, to see the Ohio River and the barges.

You can also see the bridge that connects Illinois and Kentucky. Illinois is on the right side of the river and Kentucky is on the left.

My husband and I grew up about 10 miles from here so we kind of take it for granite but out grandsons thought seeing the water and the barges was a thrill. My oldest grandson is just about 5 and asked so many questions about the barges. Where are they going? What is on the barges? What is they come apart? Oh the imagination of a young mind, you have to love their inquisitiveness.

Just a little further south, maybe a quarter of a mile, is where is Ohio River meets the Mississippi River.

We were on our way over to a friend's historic mansion in Cairo. I took picture of his garden to share with you in another post. I'll give you one quick picture so maybe you will come back to see the rest of the garden.

Linking to:

Scenic Sunday

Favorite Photo Monday

Smiling Sally for Blue Monday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays
Outdoor Wednesday

Judy at DIY by Design

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

Susan at A Southern Daydreamer for Outdoor Wednesday

Miss Robin

2012-06-23T11:45:00.001-05:00

We were getting ready to make a trip to the hardware store and my husband said "do you want to see a robin sitting on her nest?" Of course, and I picked up my camera and headed out the door.

There she was, sitting on her nest in my River Birch Tree. I didn't want to scare her off her rest so I just zoomed in and grabbed a quick shot. Doesn't she look motherly sitting there.

After we returned from the hardware store (we are cleaning our deck and staining it), I became curious and wanted to know how long it takes the robin eggs to hatch. So I googled it and found out it takes two weeks.

Here's what else I found out:

The female robin lays one small blue egg each day to a total of three to five eggs. She feeds on earthworms in the morning in order to ensure that her body has the energy to handle the physical demands of laying an egg. Until all eggs are laid, she may limit the time she spends sitting on the nest. This is to keep the older eggs cool so that the entire clutch develops at roughly the same time. Until the eggs start to hatch in approximately two weeks, the mother rarely leaves the nest for more than five or 10 minutes at a time.
http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5419182_long-robin-eggs-hatch.html

Sorry, this is not my image but it shows a single robin egg.
http://www.learner.org/jnorth/images/graphics/n-r/robin_Brophy019.jpg

http://www.learner.org/jnorth/images/graphics/n-r/robin_Brophy026.jpg

Interesting facts, I'll try to get a picture of the babies in a couple of weeks - Judy.

Linking to:
Smiling Sally for Blue Monday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday
Favorite Photo Monday
Outdoor Wednesday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday
Nik at Floral Friday Fotos

Lantern Festival

2012-06-16T20:17:00.001-05:00

We were in St. Louis, MO, visiting special old friends. The Missouri Botanical Garden was holding the "The Lantern Festival: Art by Day, Magic by Night." So while the three husbands went for a bit of beverages, the three women went to the Botanical Garden to see the evening Lantern Festival. Wow, it was awesome so come follow along the walking tour with us. The pictures are beautiful and I'll share some interesting facts about the sets.

This was the Welcoming Dragon that greeted us as we approached The Botanical Garden entrance. There were thousands of people there so you will see other visitors in my images.

The admission fee was regularly $25 a person, but one couple lives across the river from St. Louis and is a member of The Botanical Garden so we got reduced tickets of $15.00 and it was worth every dime. We were given guide books so my information is from the guide.

This set is called Dragon Embraces the Pillars. Chinese dragons are strongly associated with water in popular belief. They are believed to be the rulers of moving bodies of water, such as waterfalls, rivers, or seas.

The lotus flower symbolizes ultimate purity and perfection to the Chinese because it rises untainted and beautiful from the mud.

This lovely statue was sharing the water with the Lotus Flowers.

This is the Lotus Ponds Lantern. Sometimes called the Sacred Lotus, this flower often symbolizes elegance, beauty, perfection, purity, and grace.

This set is called Porcelain Dragon. There is a dragon on each side of the flower. I'll show you several images of the dragons and wait till you read what the dragons are made from.

In China, 2012 is the Year of the Dragon, and many of the lantern sets depict this mythical creature. Did you also know that China was the birthplace of porcelain making?

Are you looking really close at the details of the dragon?

Ok, one more clue to what the dragon is made of!

There are porcelain platters, plates, cups, and saucers wired together to form these two dragons. The installation consisted of more than 40,000 individual pieces of porcelain tied together using ancient techniques. Now you will probably want to scroll up again and look at the images a second time.

This is an evening tour, so the sun is setting.

The following set is the Sail Boat. Ancient Chinese sailing vessels, known as junks, are still in use today. Although seafaring junks are made of wood and bamboo, this vessel is made from plastic bottles and follows the 3 R's of sustainability: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The Missouri Botanical Garden says it Reduced the number of plastic bottles used in the St. Louis area by collecting used plastic bottles for the set and they will be Recycled at the end of the exhibit. About 4,600 bottles were used to make the set.

The next set is the Moonlit Pathway. The symbolic significance of moons and stars has been traced to Chinese coins from approximately 2,000 years ago. The two women on the left are my two friends on the tour with me.

The guide says this moonlit pathway evokes a heavenly sky, but also wealth, power, and abundance as you pass beneath the canopy of stars and moons.

Panda's Paradise was next. This bear is native to central-western and southwestern China. Did you know that 99% of the panda's diet is bamboo?

The First Emperor's Quest for Immortality set.

Double Seventh Festival set.

The Flying Apsaras set. Here Flying Apsaras, sometimes referred to as feitian in Chinese, are flying celestial beings whose images are mostly found in cave murals.

The Four-Faced Buddha set.

The Butterfly Lovers set is a "Romeo and Juliet" tale passed down in China for well over 1,000 years.

The last set I'll show is the Heavenly Temple. Heaven and Earth symbolically meet in the Heavenly Temple.

Wow, what a tour this was at the Missouri Botanical Garden! Hope you enjoyed it, I know it was a bit long - Judy.

Note: The Garden is beautiful all year long, I have visited in at least three seasons. It is well worth a visit.

Linking to:
The Dedicated House on Monday

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill
Blue Monday at Smiling Sally

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Your Cozy Home Party at Cozy Home Scenes on Tuesday

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday On

Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Judy at DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life
Kristen’s Creations for Share Your Creations on Thursday

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper
Scenic Sunday

Aqua and Lime

2012-06-07T21:31:00.003-05:00

I'm adding lime to my favorite color of aqua today for my tablescape. Hope you can take another aqua tablescape by me.

Take a look:

I really hadn't planned to do another aqua tablescape but then I found this aqua and lime green tablecloth at TJ Maxx for $4.99 and I just had to have it. It is vinyl so could be used indoor or out.

You have seen my aqua goblets before and may remember that I bought them at Target. I love using them in my aqua tablescapes.

I purchased the lime plates at Dollar Store and had been thinking about a tablescape to set with them. I bought the napkins at Tuesday Morning and the napkin rings from Pier One (all a while back) so wouldn't you have bought the tablecloth knowing you had elements to use with it? You all know I am a push over for anything aqua.

The lime placemats are a new find and at a bargain - half price. We have been in Branson, MO, this week and I found them at a kitchen shop in one of the Outlet Malls. I do have some other round lime green placemats I haven't used but I did love the three flowers attached separately on top and remember they were a bargain. I turned the mat so the flowers would be on the upper left so they would have a little more exposure.

My centerpiece for the table is a small green olive jar filled with white hydrangeas. The jar came from TJ Maxx and then I used a green plate to set it on for a little added accent. The candle jars were in the $1 bins at Target, my daughter noticed them and picked them up for me.

You can really see one of the handles on the jar in this image.

I made a few changes to my breadrack to share. I have had white vignettes for a couple of weeks so just added some aqua elements to carry out my theme. I didn't add any more green since you can see plenty of green going on with the wreath, trailing ivy and my Mother-in-Law's tongue plant.

I added the pillar candles on both levels of the rack and moved the birds in close. The small aqua flower plate is new from TJ Maxx.

I liked taking the images of the teapot, the candle and the bird (above) through the edges of the wreath. It gives a little added interest and depth to the images.

Thanks for stopping by to see my Aqua and Lime tablescape - Judy.

Linking to:

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage
Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hil
Blue Monday at Smiling Sallyl
The Delectable Home
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Your Cozy Home Party at Cozy Home Scenes on Tuesday
Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday
Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

White Wednesday at Faded Charm
Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans Decor and More

Susan at Between the Naps for TablescapeThursday

Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and TellFriday

Sheri at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home

Courtney of French Country Cottage for Feather Your NestFriday
Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence
The Tablescaper for Tablescape Sunday

Relaxing By The Pool

2012-06-04T12:06:00.001-05:00

I have been out of town for a few days and relaxing by the pool at Stone Bridge Village in Branson, MO.

When it gets too hot I move to the chair that I planted in the wading pool and cool off a bit I have been swimming laps too but the water is like ice.

My husband has been playing golf and trout fishing in Lake Taneyco but I have just enjoyed the pool and working on my tan. Yes, I have been using sunscreen.

The pool has several sections to it. There is a nice waterfall, I'll post a pic of it too.

I have never made a post from my iPhone so I'll see how it goes. I see that my pictures go after my words. Can't seem to control picture placement.

Linking to:

Smiling Sally for Blue Monday

Outdoor Wednesday

Watery Wednesday

Kreativ Blogger Award

2012-06-04T09:32:00.000-05:00

I received a wonderful surprise from Diane at Confessions of the Obsessed.

Thank you Diane for surprising me with this award.

Now I am nervous, I must come up with seven interesting things about myself. I may have to think about this for a while.

Ok, I'm ready and hope I don't bore you, here goes:

I love to travel with my family and have visited over 40 of the 50 states in the United States and have worn casts or braces on my leg, my foot, my leg again; you don't know it but I am very accident prone.
My hair color is natural, I don't do a thing to get this unusual color.
I have collected Fitz and Floyd for upteen years, mostly gifts from my husband and daughter; I have over 70 boxes of Christmas F&F pieces.
I like to swim laps, try to swim 40 laps each time. The water is safe, I never seem to get hurt just exhausted.
Only started blogging to help my friend, Jo Ann over at Jo's This and That; now I really love it.
I go camping once a year and sleep in a tent only because my daughter and family want to go.
I keep packing and unpacking boxes of dishes since my house hasn't sold; I started packing to clear out some of my cabinets and declutter them only it was way too soon.

Now for the fun part, I get to nominate seven people to bestow the award to. Oh, this is harder than I thought, I have many more than seven people I would like to give the award to. But I guess the fun in this award is that the next seven will nominate seven more and so the award will continue full circle.

Ok, now for my seven bloggers I am bestowing the award to:

1. Jo over at Jo's This and That who got me started in blogging.
2. Alycia at Tablescapes at Table Twenty-One
3. Michele at The Nest at Finch Rest
4. Gina at Random Thoughts from An Incoherent Mind
5. Elaine at Creating Wonderful Spaces
6. Marigene at In The Middle of Nowhere
7. Aledia at Plum Perfect

Thanks again Diane - Judy

Linking to:

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Aqua and White

2012-05-28T15:15:00.000-05:00

I am returning to my favorite color today in my tablescape. I haven't used it for a while so I am hoping you enjoy it as much as I do.

Take a look:

Yes, my favorite color is Aqua and I'm loving the aqua candles and the aqua & white napkins. Seems like white tablecloths just say "elegant" when you use them in a tablescape.

If you look over on the bread rack, you can see I have a small vignette using two white platters and a teapot and underplate and of course, a pair of white birds.

I know you have seen my birds many times, they go so well with my tablescape.

The flatware was a wedding gift to me from my Maternal Grandmother so it is very dear. I don't even know the brand or pattern, it isn't shown on the pieces. It is stainless so no polishing necessary.

The napkins are new and purchased from Cockrell's Mercantile Store. I love the color and pattern in the napkin and it is reversible. Hooray, I can use then in another aqua post sometime.

Do you love this color as much as I do, or do you have another color that is your favorite?

I only wish I had hydrangeas blooming but instead I had to use faux for the centerpiece.They really are a teal color but seem to look gray in my pictures.

The menu for tonight comes from Food.com and their Best Romantic Recipes.

Summer Dinner Salad and a Glass of White

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Better Than Sex Cake and a Cup of Coffee

I do hope you have enjoyed my Aqua and White tablescape. If you are not a follower, please join my blog and I will follow you back - Judy.

White dishes are Pfaltzgraff - Gazebo
Teapot & Platters from TJ Maxx
Candles are from Bed, Bath and Beyond
Napkin Rings are Godinger
White Vase is Fiesta
Tablecloth is vintage and belonged to my Mother

I am participating in these parties:

Masterpiece Monday at Boogieboard Cottage

Make the Scene Monday at Alderberry Hill

The Delectable Home
Meet Me Monday at You're Talking Too Much

Your Cozy Home Party at Cozy Home Scenes on Tuesday

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday On

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

White Wednesday at Faded Charm
Bunny Hop Party at Bunny Jeans Decor and More

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence
Thrifty Things Friday at The Thrifty Groove
Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper
Mosaic Monday at Little Red House

Breakfast With Stella

2012-05-20T21:28:00.000-05:00

Today we are having breakfast with Stella. She is just beautiful, you will love her, she's radiant, full of color, and just define to look at.

Here's a peek at Stella.

Ok, now you know. Stella is Stella Dora Lilly and she's blooming in my yard and I just wanted to share her beauty with you.

Her blooms are so lovely but did you know that each bloom only lives one day, but the Stella de Oro daylily (her technical name) will re-bloom. I did a little research and read that if the spent flowers are deadheaded, stem and all, she will re-bloom profusely.

Since Stella doesn't have much time to stay and visit, our breakfast is going to be pretty light and quick. We are have hot biscuits, strawberry jam, and fresh oranges and strawberries with a glass of squeezed OJ to drink.

Thanks for joining me for Breakfast With Stella and for playing along with my bit of humor - Judy.

Platter and Urn are Bountiful Collection by Gail Pittman

Aqua Plates from TJ Maxx

Bright Yellow Plate and Goblets from Dollar Store

White Plate by Pfaltzgraff

Red Vase from TJ Maxx

Red Napkins from Kohls

Napkin Rings from Pier 1

Flatware from Oneida

I am participating in these parties:

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Alderberry Hill for Make the Scene Monday

You're Talking Too Much for Meet Me Monday

On The Menu Monday at StoneGable

Your Cozy Home Party at Cozy Home Scenes on Tuesday

Table Top Tuesday at A Stroll Thru Life on Tuesday On

Let's Dish at Cuisine Kathleen on Wednesday

Centerpiece Wednesday at the Style Sisters
Wow Us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style

Tablescape Thursday at Between Naps on the Porch

Open House Party at No Minimalist Here on Thursday

Favorite Things Thursday at Katherine’s Corner

Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life

Feathered Nest Friday at the French Country Cottage

Foody Friday at Designs by Gollum

Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence

Seasonal Sunday at The Tablescaper

Climbing Clematis

2012-05-17T09:06:00.001-05:00

I am using purple again today in my tablescape. This is my fourth table using purple or lilac this Spring but it is such a beautiful color and I have enjoyed bringing the purple indoors.

I used two tablerunners that I purchased at TJ Maxx in the sale isle for $10 each. I also found the purple platter laying next to the runners and couldn't believe someone hadn't nabbed it before I saw them. It must have been put there just for me!

I did see Marty over at A Stroll Thru Life feature two runners crossed on a tablescape and thought she had a great idea so I am using Marty's idea. Thanks Marty.

My inspiration for my tablescape came from my clematis growing on my mailbox. I have never cut clematis for my table so this is a first. I wasn't sure how the blooms would do bringing them in the house so I cut them and immediately gently placed them in water.

The blooms look much darker purple when I added them to this deep purple tablescape. I set the table and had it perfect before I cut the blooms in case they wilted quickly (more clematis images)

I have used the goblets on several tablescapes but I love how they look. I purchased them at Target early in the Spring but recently saw they were still carrying them.

I used a stack of blue and white plates to pull out the blue flowers in the runner. The blue plates are from TJ Maxx and the white plates are Pfaltzgraff Gazebo. The plateware is Oneida.

I prepared a coffee/tea center on my bread rack next to the table. I love how the purple looks next to the white teapot and cups.

My husband gets all the credit for this menu. He has been cooking up a storm today. I have a separate post about this Menu, click here to read it. It includes grilled salmon and halibut that he caught in Alaska.

I used the pink napkins (Kohl's) since the purple plate in the center had pink flowers.

Thanks for stopping to see my Climbing Clematis Tablescape - Judy

Linking to:

The Tablescaper for Seasonal Sundays

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

The House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday

Alderberry Hill for Make the Scene Monday

The Delectable Home
You're Talking Too Much for Meet Me Monday
Mellow Yellow Monday
Stone Gable for On The Menu Monday

Cozy Home Scenes on Tuesday

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday

Linda at Coastal Charm for Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Tell it to me Tuesday at Creatively Living

Kristin at My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia for Tuesday’s Treasures

Knick of Time Tuesday Vintage Style Party
Crafty Texas Girls for Cowgirl Up on Tuesdays

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

Judy at DIY by Design for Swing Into Spring

Danette at The Shady Porch for Rock and Share Wednesday
The NY Melrose Family for Whimsey Wednesday

Cuisine Kathleen for Let's Dish Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Amy at Home Happy Home for Whimsy Wednesday

Mrs. Hines Class for Show and Tell Wednesday

52 Mantels - Thursdays Are Your Day

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday

Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday

Katherine at Katherine’s Corner for Favorite Things Thursday

A Delightsome Life for Home and Garden Thursday

No Minimalist Here for Open House Party Thursday

Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday

Heather and Vanessa at At the Picket Fence for Inspiration Friday

Sherry at The Charm of Home for Home Sweet Home Friday

Jody and Stan @ Rooted in Thyme for Simple and Sweet Fridays

Natasha In Oz for Say G Day Saturday

Clematis Blooms

2012-05-17T09:05:00.003-05:00

Both varieties of my clematis are in full bloom in my yard. I'll share both with you.

The clematis on my mailbox is such a beautiful deep purple color; take a look and see what you think.

I have a plastic coated mesh wire over my mailbox and work with the vines in Spring as they start to grow and keep them going up and over the box. I think I have more blooms than ever this year and many buds that haven't opened. I don't really cut the old vines back but let the new growth run on the old.

My other variety of clematis is growing on a trellis in my front court yard. Take a look:

Hope you enjoyed my climbing clematis - Judy.

Linking to:

Scenic Sunday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

The House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday

Alderberry Hill for Make the Scene Monday

Little Red House for Mosaic Monday

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

Favorite Photo Monday

Mellow Yellow Monday

Macro Monday

Today's Flower

The Bungalow Bog for Garden Party Tuesday

Outdoor Wednesday

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday
A Delightsome Life for Home and Garden Thursday
Gina at The Shabby Creek Cottage for Transformation Thursday

Jody and Stan @ Rooted in Thyme for Simple and Sweet Fridays
Nik at Floral Friday Fotos
Flowers On Saturday

Grilled Halibut and Salmon On The Menu

2012-05-14T15:59:00.000-05:00

My husband has been cooking all afternoon and has the most beautiful food prepared. But you may have to like fish to think it is beautiful.

Take a look then we can talk about the menu.

Here's a shot with the lettuce salad which is at the top of the image.

The fish has a bit of history to go with it. Both the halibut and salmon were caught by my husband last August when we were in Alaska on a vacation. My husband caught the fish on separate days and had the fish frozen and shipped back to us here in Missouri.

I had him dish his plate first since he cooked the meal and is a big eater so his plate is full. You can see the asparagus on the upper right of his plate followed by the mixed vegetables. The halibut is the white fish on the left and the salmon is just above the halibut. He used a lemon pepper salt on the fish and then squeezed fresh lemon on both.

We did keep the dessert pretty light with the fresh fruit and a whipped topping.

Thanks for stopping by - Judy.

Linking to:

On the Menu Monday

Mix It Up Monday

Your Cozy Home Party on Tuesday
Liz and Holly at A lettered Life for Tasty Tuesday

The Bunny Hop on Wednesday
Ivy and Elephants

Cuisine Kathleen for Let's Dish Wednesday at 7
No Minimalist Here

Full Plate Thursday

Foodie Friday
Natasha in Oz for Say G Day Saturday

Seasonal Sundays

Hearth Room Update

2012-05-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was staying with my daughter while she was recovering from surgery and had a little time to take some pictures of her hearth room update.

For months they had been wanting to start a redo in their hearth room that joins the kitchen. The project got started in January with a trip to Nell Hill's in Kansas City where Mary Carol Garrity (owner of Hell Hill's) drew a room plan from measurements and pictures of the room.

The chairs and fabric were selected and ordered from Nell Hills.

The beautiful flowers were a gift from friends while my daughter has been re-cooperating. They won't be sitting there long with two young boys running around. The burlap tray and accessories are also from Nell Hills.

Chair fabric

The original drawing by Mary Carroll has built in bookcases but my daughter hasn't had time to address those.

The drapery fabric is an animal toile.

Wallpaper had to be stripped and you can see it was tough going because a cute little helper thought his Mom and Dad needed assistance. So, much of the paper removal had to be done when both boys were in bed.

I know this sounds strange but before the walls were sanded or painted, my son-in-law hung the drapery rods. This was done in order to get the perfect measurement for the length of the draperies to the floor so the fabric could be ordered.

They couldn't find the rods they wanted in silver so he purchased black ones and spray painted them silver. The Christmas tree and decor did come down before the sanding and painting began.

The project has been completed for a little while but I haven't had time to take pictures to show. They have been working on a wall of pictures so a new post will be coming to show the rest of the room.

Thanks for stopping by for this Hearth Room Update - Judy.

Linking to:

Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday

The House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday

Mary at Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Cozy Home Scenes for Your Cozy Home Scene Party on Monday evening

Linda at Coastal Charm Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday

Kim at Savvy Southern Style for Wow Us Wednesdays

Judy at DIY by Design for Winter Blues Wednesday

Primp Your Stuff Wednesday

Paula and Patti at Ivy and Elephants for What’s It Wednesday

Danette at The Shady Porch for Rock and Share Wednesday

Sherry at No Minimalist Here for the Open House Party on Thursday

Katherine at Katherine’s Corner for Favorite Things Thursday

Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday

Courtney at French Country Cottage for Feathered Nest Friday