Wednesday, December 28, 2011

photo friday

our christmas JULKAPP that i made for family when they visited during the holidays.   this swedish tradition was discovered in my research on holiday celebrations from around the world.   a julkapp is a gift wrapped in many, many layers of paper (the more layers, the more "successful" the julkapp is) and left on the recipient's doorstep.  the julkapp took more than two hours to wrap (with recycled christmas paper and ribbons) and about an hour to unwrap.  it seems it was a successful julkapp!  this was such fun we have decided to have more julkapps in future christmas celebrations.

thoughtful thursday

i'll be away the remainder of the week so here's the rest of this week's posts early......

this year the house has the most christmas decorations ever.  and all of them have been given to me by others.  first came the table top tree a few years ago.  it's about two feet tall and all the decorations, save lights, were in the box with the tree (it never did get any lights added).  it stayed in the box until the first year the grandchildren were able to visit the day after christmas.  they decorated the tree. for the last few years they have taken care of decorating this little tree.  the tree stood alone until this year when a plethora of decorations came my way.  a friend had a live wreath sent as well as an amaryllis, however, at the rate the amaryllis is growing it might more accurately be called an easter decoration!  no sooner had the wreath been hung and the amaryllis watered, another friend gifted to me a charlie brown christmas tree, complete with a single red ornament on a sagging branch. then the neighbor arrived with a tree to put outside on the screened porch.  when plugged in, the bright lights shine all the way to the road.  wow!  an outdoor christmas decoration. the best part of having these christmas decorations about is that all of them are thoughtful offerings by special people who just didn't think my house should be devoid of outward signs of holiday spirit.  these decorations bring a smile and a silent thank you to all who contributed to merry christmas here!  (and family were very impressed when they arrived to more than just the table top tree!)

whimsical wednesday!

megan, jacob and i have mixed and baked the ice cream muffins!  this two ingredient delight was enjoyed by the family.  this first time treat was assessed by the participants:

megan: tastes like mamala (me).
jacob:  tasty.
scott:  dense yet soft, butter would be good on them.
sarah:  would be enjoyed more if in a different flavor.

the muffins really have the texture and consistency of muffins.  the ice cream flavor used was "death by chocolate" a rich chocolate ice cream with nuts and brownie bits.  we decided next time we bake the muffins to try vanilla (what the recipe called for) or butter pecan or a fruited ice cream like strawberry or peach. the muffins were tasted warm, just out of the oven, and it was decided that warm made them taste especially good.  we'll taste them at room temperature later to compare.  (if warm is better, there's always the microwave to reheat them!)

a thank you to my sister for sharing the recipe with me. she got it at a cooking demonstration she attended recently.

here's megan and jacob with the muffins right out of the oven......

Monday, December 26, 2011

get ready......

ICE CREAM muffins for whimsical wednesday!

here is the recipe:

1 cup softened ice cream
1 cup self-rising flour*

*make your own self-rising flour:
mix together:
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda

mix together the ice cream and flour

spoon into a greased 6 cup muffin pan

bake at 425 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes

enjoy!

Friday, December 23, 2011

photo friday

jack frost visited this week for the fist time this winter, nipping at the "nose" of the land as depicted on the holly tree.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

thoughtful thursday

this week has been filled with christmas gifts; wrapping gifts, wednesday's unexpected gift activity, gifts being exchanged with friends this week before christmas, and more to come with family on christmas day and throughout next week. the reason for the tradition is to offer a token of esteem to others the way the wise men offered gifts to the baby jesus.  it is important to remember that gift giving isn't the fulfillment of someone's "want" list, as though receiving gifts is like procuring items on a shopping list.  the most special gifts are those filled with love for the person receiving the gift. and the best gift in return is that the recipient is thrilled to have been thought of by someone at christmas.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

those i wished to treat to an unexpected christmas gift were all thrilled.  very pleased and surprised to be thought of with christmas cookies and homemade jam (yes, both!).  it was such fun to arrive on doorsteps of neighbors unannounced and greet the person who opened the door with a "merry christmas" and "this is for you".  what i received were also gifts; hugs and smiles and the joy of having made others happy.  i also treated the mail carrier and she left a note thanking me for the goodies!

a friend came for lunch and an afternoon crafting session.  she worked on two different christmas tree ornaments while i worked on another project.  she surprised me with an unexpected gift by leaving a set of her ornaments for each of the grandchildren.  they will like them a lot especially since they are from someone they know and like very much.  toward evening the doorbell rang and there was another friend.  he also surprised me with an unexpected gift; a huge ham for us to enjoy for christmas dinner!  indeed we shall.  neither of these friends know about the whimsey project so they don't know about whimsical wednesday activities. however, for me, they were active participants in the whimsey project today and i am so pleased that they were.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

miscellaneous

lots to do took me to town today.  i was there much longer than anticipated or wanted to be.  however, there is a benefit to being out after dark this time of year: the decorations of the holiday season can be enjoyed.  the city decorations were enjoyed until town disappeared in the rear view window and the country was before me.  along the way, a house here and there shone with the a magic that is only present during christmas.

tomorrow is the first day of winter, the shortest day of the year.  the following day will bring a few more minutes of daylight and for each day thereafter until the longest day of the year, june 21st, the first day of summer.  the rhythm of the earth. and the creatures of the earth, including humans, follow this rhythm as well.  happy winter's eve!

Monday, December 19, 2011

get ready.....

for whimsical wednesday, give someone a christmas gift.  this someone should be a person who would never expect to receive a gift from you; be that person known or unknown to you.  gift suggestions: something simple, possibly homemade, such as cookies or jam.  we'll be santas this whimsical wednesday!

Friday, December 16, 2011

photo friday

a lovely christmas gift from a lovely friend.  it is so lovely it seemed sad to hang it where it couldn't be looked at regularly.  solution? it was hung in the kitchen!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

thoughtful thursday

this time of year, beginning soon after thanksgiving, brings wonderful holiday greetings in the mailbox.  these cards are greatly anticipated as, each day, one wonders "who" might appear in the daily mail.  every card is special and wonderful because each is a tangible expression that someone is thinking of you.  among all these greetings there are those that are particularly extraordinary.  not extraordinary in an extravagant sense but for the thoughts, feelings or memories that are provoked.  one such card arrived in yesterday's mail.  my sister, who is an expert papercrafter, created a christmas card just for me (and our brother no doubt).  the card features a photograph of all of us sitting on the hearth by the fire one christmas when we were children.  the sentiment, "i smile because you are my sister.  i laugh because there is nothing you can do about it!"  made me both smile and laugh, nodding that, yes, indeed, that is absolutely, without a doubt, true!  this card will remain a treasure and it caused me to hope that the old-fashioned tradition of sending holiday greetings through the mail will never cease.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

a web search yielded serveral christmas traditions from around the world that could be readily incorporated into our christmas traditions.  it was too difficult to decide which one or two to select so all are being offered for whimsical wednesday. these activities can be done as explained or altered to fit into different family dynamics. enjoy!.......

Greece:  a special spicy/sweet bread called CHRISTOPSOMO (christ's bread) is eaten during the christmas meal.  it is made into different shapes and the top usually reflects the profession of the household (dad).

Latvia:  the first christmas tree was displayed here.  there are 12 days of gift giving, beginning on christmas day. a special dish for the christmas meal is brown peas with bacon.

France:  new year's cards are sent instead of christmas cards.  the new year's cards wish luck and joy in the new year.  a favorite food item is pate.

Russia:  stars are hung on the end of sticks and carried about outside.  these are "stars of bethlehem".

Poland:  special "stalls" (JOSELKI) are created in the market places; each stall decorated to depict a scene from the christmas story.

England:  apples and candy are hung on the christmas tree.  presents are not open until christmas afternoon.

Czech Republic:  no matter how full the table is set for family, a place is set for the christ child for christmas dinner.

Mexico:  designs are cut into brown paper bags that then contain a light to become a lantern (FAROLITOS). these are placed outside to "light the way" to christmas celebrations.

China:  red paper chains are created and hung on the tree and around the house. the chains symbolize happiness.

Sweden:  JULKAPP is the practice of wrapping a christmas present in many layers of paper. the more layers the more successful the julkapp is! the present is left on the doorstep of the recipient.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

miscellaneous

raining today.  i like rainy days, especially if i can be in the comfort of home.  tea is very grander than it already is on a rainy day!

i do not participate in many holiday activities.  one i do is the annual cookie exchange.  this year's was on saturday last and such a wonderful time.  now i get to package the cookies as gifts for others; which i enjoy doing very much.

there are even more birds at the feeders now that the temperature has dropped lower.  one of my twitter followers said she was feeding hummingbirds.  where, this time of year, are hummingbirds?  california! she has hummers all year.  that would be lovely.  although i do look forward to their return each spring as that has a special magic as well.

Monday, December 12, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday look for something about the holiday season (whatever you celebrate this time of year) from another culture.  it could be music, stories or lore, recipe, activity; whatever you fancy.  after making a selection, consider how to incorporate it into your holiday celebration any way you would like.

Friday, December 9, 2011

photo friday

this photograph is so whimsically magical to me.  while walking across the lawn at mom and dad's house, i looked down to discover these button mushrooms growing amid the grass, clover, violets and wild strawberries.  the mushrooms were so cute and such a surprise they made me giggle.

thoughtful thursday

the cookies are baked and packed for the cookie exchange this weekend.  so much of celebration is ritual; sameness.  we wonder why we do the same things over and over again, year after year.  we could "shake things up" but when we do it doesn't seem quite the same.  ritual in celebration isn't just something we engage in, it's what we look forward to throughout each year.*


*this was posted on friday because it didn't get tended to on thursday.  just sayin.....

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

there are now 20 homemade gift certificates ready to give away!  all of them were created entirely with paper,  glue stick and colored markers.  the certificate base is a neat index card; bands of color alternating with white bands in red, yellow, green, blue and purple.  these colors offered a vehicle for colorful paper shapes (circles, squares, flowers, butterflies, buttons) to be used as embellishments on the cards. the colored markers added another element of color that produced vividly festive gift certificates.  hopefully all the recipients will enjoy their homemade gift certificates.  no doubt grandson, jacob, will really enjoy his:  time with me to play the games of his choosing and time with me to watch ernest movies (ernest goes to camp; "death from above!" giggle....).  like jacob's gift certificates, everyone who will receive one or more will have the gift of me!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

miscellaneous

sighted several license plates last weekend; alaska, west virginia, virginia, south carolina.....  all have been previously spotted on the road during the year.  a new one, mexico! was also seen.  i'd still like to see the six remaining states that have yet to be spied.

it's cold enough now that the birds are enjoying suet cakes along with the regular bird food.  it's so pleasant to look out the window at the bird feeding station and see so many birds; cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, finches, wrens, sparrows, doves,  the wacky vocal crows.  people and birds have a wonderful friendship.  people feed the birds and the birds give people  tremendous pleasure.

Monday, December 5, 2011

get ready.....

the gift of self is the best gift of all. giving someone your time, attention, effort can't compare to any gift purchased no matter how wonderful that purchased gift is.  for this whimsical wednesday, let's make the gift of ourselves to give each other this holiday season.  create as many gift certificates for those you would like to give yourself to.  personalize each certificate to the person receiving it.  it might be for a movie and popcorn, whether at home or at the theatre.  it might be game night.  it might be help with cleaning the garage or attic or yard or other chore that requires a lot of energy to complete.  it might be any number of household chores, like doing the dishes.  it might be baking cookies.  it might be for a surprise!  the gift certificates can be as simple as words on a piece of paper or as elaborate as decorated cards.  enjoy!

Friday, December 2, 2011

photo friday

the delightful thanksgiving cactus added cheer to our holiday.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

thoughtful thursday

just a week ago the house bustled with people; laughter, conversation, activity! in the week since memories of thanksgiving have come to mind, bringing many smiles. the best part of a special occasion ending is the opportunity to look forward to the next special occasion!

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

in honor of national native american heritage month, whimsical wednesday's activity was to include a craft, recipe, story, research about native americans.  i elected to craft two medallions that were inspired by pendants carved by the wampanoag.  the purpose of these pendants (or medallions) was to display symbols that held special meaning for their wearers.  the pendants were very elaborately ornate and were worn with honor. the medallions i crafted are for the grandchildren so they were made with simple materials; brown craft paper, decorative paper and yarn.  circles of  brown craft paper were embellished with successively smaller circles cut from green decorative paper.  a symbol that represented the grandchildren was stamped on the smallest circle.  a dark green length of yarn was laced through the medallion to form a necklace.  the medallions will be presented to the grandchildren during their next visit.  happy national native american heritage month!

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

miscellaneous

rain and cold have arrived and with it snow flurries;  not many and not consistently but snow nonetheless. sure makes being home feel even better....cozy and warm.

a bittersweet vine trails along the top of the dining room windows.  because it hasn't been trimmed in awhile, it has spilled across the back porch and touches a window in the sun room.  a house wren (or sparrow) has taken to perching on the vine next to the sun room window.  there must be a reflection on the glass because the bird pecks at the window, hops along the vine, pecks on the window again:  back and forth, peck, peck, peck......  both the kitties and i have taken an interest in this little bird's routine; perhaps for different reasons!

the nearest houses i can see in the distance are aglow at night.  christmas lights have begun to shine. christmas lights at dark, from a distance have always seemed magical.

success! the christmas cards, as planned, were mailed on the monday after thanksgiving!

Monday, November 28, 2011

get ready.....

november is native american heritage month.  let's celebrate by featuring anything native american this whimsical wednesday.  perhaps you would like to read about the history of native americans, make a craft or recipe that is native american inspired.  there are many online resources to help you decide what to delve into. enjoy!

Friday, November 25, 2011

photo friday

our thanksgiving give thanks tablecloth., a sheet of craft paper.  the centerpiece was composed of a new bird feeder, candle and stones; encircled with "give thanks" in fall colored letters.  a lovely container of markers were on the table to allow diners to share what they were thankful for.....by writing these thanks on the tablecloth.  

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

this thanksgiving eve is whimsical wednesday. with part of the family already gathered, the bunch that could be  known as the m&ms family because of their enjoyment of m&ms, whimsical wednesday was planned to be both fun and festive.

everyone received a small container of peanut m&ms.  each person then sorted their m&ms by color.  next the m&ms were eaten in the order of least to most favorite colors!  as everyone munched, i recorded the order in which they enjoy their m&ms.  (i do not eat candy due to the sugar content.)  the results, listed least to most favorite color:

sarah:     brown, green, red, blue, orange, yellow
megan:   brown, orange, yellow, red, green, blue
jacob:    brown, orange, red, yellow, green, blue
scott:     brown, orange, green, red, yellow, blue

it was fascinating, although not surprising, that everyone ate the brown m&ms first because it was everyone's least favorite color.  (remember the tan m&ms? those used to be the least favorite because they just were not at all pretty!)

after talking about everyone's color choices, scott suggested that a sentence be written using the first letter of each m&m color to reflect everyone's color preferences.  that was a great idea so that was done as well.  (articles were "free" if anyone wanted to construct a sentence with these)  the results:

sarah:      Bring granny rain boots over yonder!

megan:    Bring old yeller, Ruby G, bring!

jacob:     Boring old rain yells at my grisly bear!

scott:      Breakfast is ongoing gustatory revelations, yoga is a blessing!

this was a fun addition to just eating the m&ms in color order because, as the sentences were read aloud, everyone laughed and laughed!

another whimsical wednesday enjoyed! and soon it will be thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

miscellaneous

three deer standing motionless on the back lawn caught my eye yesterday.  they were staring intently at something.  my gaze followed theirs and settled on what they were interested in.  a very large crow was eating corn that was thrown out for all the critters earlier in the day.  it appeared that the deer wanted to eat but were deterred by the crow.  when the crow was finished, away he flew.  only then did the deer approach the "table"!

today will be all about preparing for thanksgiving.  recipes to make and pies to bake.  tomorrow as well but there will be time for whimsical wednesday and eating colorful candy.  it's a rainy day.  that makes being home cozy and preparations all the more enjoyable.  why i have no clue.  it just works that way.

Monday, November 21, 2011

get ready.....

for whimsical wednesday we shall partake of any colorful candy such as m&ms or skittles.  we won't just eat them.  we will eat them in the order of the colors from least favorite to most favorite.  this is actually quite ritualistically enjoyable.  get your candy and get ready to enjoy!

Friday, November 18, 2011

photo friday


 roses in october? must have a photo! surprise!! one of the roses had a friend!

Thursday, November 17, 2011

thoughtful thursday

a recent visit to the local secondhand shop netted an original watercolor painting for $2.25!!!!  i was over the moon because watercolor painting is my most favorite. it's lovely.  a landscape featuring a covered bridge with trees in fall colors.  the painting is in the room where i spend the most time so i can look at it a lot.  it makes me smile.  beyond being lovely and lovely at an extraordinary price, it reminds me of something else.  if we think of people as gems (and they are) we often find these precious gems in the most unlikely places; just like an original watercolor painting in a secondhand shop!  look for gems everywhere and treasure them once they are found.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

while out on errands yesterday, i walked the craft supply aisles in the stores i visited in order to be inspired for today's whimsical wednesday activity.  i knew i found the give thanks avenue to pursue when i spied a very different craft paper. it's brown like craft (butcher) paper is, however, it was printed with an overlay of white vines, leaves and tiny flowers.  how pretty and just right for a thanksgiving day "give thanks" tablecloth.

it was unrolled across the table last night so that it could relax before being worked with this morning.  the centerpiece container for placed on the table over the paper so that letter placement could be determined for either side.  pre-formed letters in a variety of colors and design, spelling give thanks, were placed then glued on the craft paper.  it's very simple, however, on thanksgiving day, colored pens will be in a pretty container; available to the guests to write what they each give thanks for directly on the tablecloth.  the colorful sentiments will complete the design.

how about your give thanks project this whimsical wednesday?  are you ready for thanksgiving?

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

miscellaneous

the last few weeks have been filled with thanksgiving preparations. discussing and planning the menu for thanksgiving day (which actually provides much of what we eat all weekend), getting the grocery list written, cleaning the house.  it's our most favorite holiday of the year;  the one we make sure we gather for here on the farm. of everything there is to do and think about, the weather is uppermost in my mind. hopefully it will cooperate so people everywhere can travel safely.  we hope for mild weather here because it's a weekend filled with outdoor activities.  of course, there's always the fireplace in the living room to enjoy should we have to remain inside.  today i'm thinking about what to create for tomorrow's whimsical wednesday "giving thanks" project!

Monday, November 14, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday, we will create something for thanksgiving (november 24th) that will help remind us of what we are thankful for.  create whatever will work best for your gathering on thanksgiving. 

it might be:

*a thankful jar in which persons write what they are thankful for on a piece of paper then put in the jar. 
*a thankful tree in which a small tree of some sort that persons can attach a small piece of paper that they have written what they are thankful for.
*a thankful tablecloth; a sheet of craft paper or butcher paper on the holiday table with colorful markers/pens available for people to write what they are thankful for.
*a thankful journal that can be used from year to year.

these are just a few ideas for creating a vehicle for giving thanks this thanksgiving.

Friday, November 11, 2011

photo friday


to honor fall, photo friday highlights nature-made art.  these leaf impressions were discovered on a driveway.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

thoughtful thursday

the joys of cold weather:

*hot chocolate, hot cider, hot tea, hot dr pepper, hot coffee; whatever you enjoy!
*soups and stews
*earlier darkness
*earlier darkness creating perfect setting for candle burning
*warm jammies or sweats
*sunshine that makes the day feel "warmer"
*fires in the fireplace inside or fires in the fire pit outside
*playing games together in front of the fire inside
*popping popcorn in the fireplace to eat while playing games
*toasting marshmellows or making smores by the fire outside
*curling up with a great book
*feeling snug and cozy in the house
*being grateful that all these cold weather activities can be enjoyed!

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

no whimsical wednesday activity for me.  a friend in need required all my time, attention and energy.  that's ok.  i will just make tomorrow or friday my whimsical wednesday for this week.  how about you?  were you able to create holiday greeting cards?

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

miscellaneous

what do you do when you find yourself at loose ends?  you know, when you are restless, want to do something but don't know what that something is?  i have that today.

all the household fur are soooo happy that i returned home.  every morning i awake to all of them on me or snuggled close.  i can't move!  but i love that they want to be with me.  during the day, every time i sit down, one gets on my lap.  when that one exits another takes its place.   i missed them a lot while i was gone.

one of the outside kitties had babies not too long ago.  i'm working to socialize these kittens so they can become someone's pets.  of course, they are a set so they'll have to be adopted together.  once someone sees them, taking both will not be an impediment!  they are that cute and sweet and bright.

getting ready for thanksgiving.  my family's most favorite holiday.  hopefully the weather will cooperate for travel and outside doings on the farm.

enjoy a cup of tea!

Monday, November 7, 2011

get ready.....

hey!?  how are those holiday cards coming along?  we're going to devote this whimsical wednesday to holiday card crafting (or whatever you need to do to yours) again.  begin now or keep going!

Friday, November 4, 2011

photo friday

this is my halloween, fall, thanksgiving pumpkin.  it is a mini pumpkin that dad gave me.  he grew it in his garden.  a very special pumpkin at any size!

Thursday, November 3, 2011

thoughtful thursday

while home last week, one of the tasks i completed for mom and dad was to polish their shoes.  (this is the first entry into the memory book i created yesterday for whimsical wednesday.) dad still has the same box of shoe shining materials he had when i was a little girl; the different tins of polish, the polish applicators, the brushes, the buffing cloths, the saddle soap and various other products for keeping shoes looking their best.

as i polished shoes during that afternoon, i remembered, growing up, my older brothers taking on the serious task of polishing dad's work and dress shoes.  they worked hard at this job because they wanted to please as well as the fact that dad paid for their services.  before payment was rendered, the shoes were inspected.  dad held up one shoe and then the other, examining them carefully before declaring that one of my brothers did a good job and earned their pay.  i watched, never participating, but wishing i could polish dad's shoes.  then one day dad asked me to polish his shoes!  not my two older brothers!  me!  i was proud and nervous at the same time.  dad provided a lesson in how to polish his shoes.  i knew it because of watching my brothers, however, i was very attentive to dad's instruction because it had to be right.  it was the first time i was allowed to participate in a ritual that had, until now, belonged to dad and his sons.

as i polished shoes last thursday afternoon, it felt like it felt the first time i polished dad's shoes.  i selected the correct color of polish for the different shoes, used the corresponding brush applicators for applying the polish to the shoes, allowed the shoes to "rest" prior to buffing them with the various brushes and then using the buffing cloths to finish the shine.  the polish aroma was just as it was when i was a child as was the sound of the brush being rubbed across the shoes.  i loved those sensations then and i love them now.  the task of polishing mom and dad's shoes no doubt was very helpful to them.  the memory the task of polishing mom and dad's shoes elicited for me was more than worth that afternoon's efforts.  

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

my memories book was created this morning using a regular notebook one would use in school (i enjoy lined paper and writing with pencil).  the cover was decorated with scrapbooking supplies:  pretty paper, stamps and colored ink, embellishments.  it's very simple, like me.  the results made me smile.  my name, address, the date and volume I were inscribed on the inside cover.  the memories book was ready to receive memories.  the first entry was a childhood memory that was evoked during my recent two week visit with mom and dad.  look for that memory to be featured on thoughtful thursday tomorrow.  how about you?  have you created your memories book this whimsical wednesday?

*another idea:  you can create a book that will contain general memories or you can create a book that will be specific to a particular event such as a wedding.  at the reception, the memory book can be available for guests to write a personal memory about the couple, either together or separately.  we did this at the 60th wedding anniversary of our parents.  instead of a notebook, we had 4x6 inch cards at each place setting for each guest to share something about mom and dad.  these memories were put into the scrapbook my sister made for the occasion.  it's a lovely way to include guests in any celebration as well as provide a written reminder of that happy event.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

miscellaneous

after two weeks away it feels great to be home.  the time away was pleasant and productive but, as it is said, there's no place like home!

last week i was thrilled to see a license plate from virginia.  i was operating on what was needed from memory instead of the list.  well.  virginia had already been spotted.  at least it was fun to be excited!  on the drive home sunday, there were lots of license plates from very far away but none from the few that are still needed.  oh, delaware, where are you?!?!?!?!?

yesterday was halloween.  no human trick or treaters in the country but there's always an extra treat for the outdoor kitties and other assorted critters.  and for the indoor pets as well.

and here it is the first of november.  with halloween, the holiday season begins.

Monday, October 31, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday we are creating a memory book.  the book can be composed of anything you wish it to be, simple or elaborate.  you could take a purchased notebook and make a cover for it. or you can make a notebook that you build from various materials.  after completing your memory book, make an entry. and then, over time, write memories as they come to mind; for yourself and for others to enjoy.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

thoughtful thursday

yesterday's whimsical wednesday activity was so delightful i have spent today thinking about it.  this has prompted thinking about whimsical wednesday generally.  i'm pleased to have instituted whimsical wednesday for the whimsey project.  it has become a date i have with myself and/or others once a week doing fun or relaxing activities.  sometimes i have not felt like thinking of something to do.  sometimes i have not felt like actually doing what was thought of.  however, the commitment to the project, thus whimsical wednesday, motivates me to carry on regardless of mood.  after the day's activity has been completed; i have shared with others and they have shared with me, my spirit is lifted.  whimsical wednesday is good for our health!  i am looking forward to many, many more whimsical wednesdays.  hopefully so are you.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

whimsical wednesday

what an amazingly full whimsical wednesday.  today we were to share time with someone else doing anything together.  because i am visiting family, i spent all day with them.  in addition to them, completely unplanned, we had visits from friends!  and we also had time to do a craft together.  i like this whimsical wednesday activity (sharing time with others, doing whatever together) so much i do believe we will do it again and again on a regular basis.  it's good for the spirit. 

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

miscellaneous

wheeee......  spied a license plate from the state of virginia! 

did you see the northern lights last evening or tonight?  weren't they beautiful!

Monday, October 24, 2011

get ready.....

for whimsical wednesday, share yourself with someone(s) else.  do anything you like for as long as possible.  just enjoy the pleasure of company, be it family or friends. 

Thursday, October 20, 2011

thoughtful thursday

this week, while in downtown with mom and dad, i looked around at familiar sights and thought of all that was wonderful about the area.  growing up in a small southern town so many years ago had advantages.  the freedom to be able to roam or travel to a destination alone was special.  downtown was just about my favorite destination.  my bicycle would take me to the public library where i would spend many hours reading whatever caught my attention before checking out a few books to take home.  the drug store across the street from the library featured an old fashioned soda fountain.  but before enjoying a cherry soda, a walk along one side of main street from the library and then along the other side to the drug store was mandatory.  only a few blocks in length, main street bustled with shops and services, the court house square and people.  while slurping the cherry soda through a straw and taking bites of the vanille ice cream at the bottom of the tall, frosty glass with a long handled spoon, one of the newly checked out library books was eagerly read.  then it was back on my bike and home again. 

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

it stormed overnight bringing a great many leaves to the earth for today's activity of creating leaf rubbings.   there were so many to choose from it was difficult to decide which to gather.  ultimately five were selected for their sizes and shapes.   instead of making a rubbing of each leaf, a single rubbing was created.  the leaves were arranged to look like they had just fallen in a random pattern on the grass.  (the stems were taped to the table for stability).  a sheet of yellow paper was laid over the leaves.  these were rubbed with a piece of brown sidewalk chalk and, as the chalk moved across the paper, the outline of each leaf magically appeared on the paper.  another sheet of paper, red, was used to create another single arrangement of the leaves.  this time, however, each leaf was held on top of the paper and a copper colored crayon was used to rub around the outside of the leaf.  the effects were what would be called a positive and a negative relief of the leaves.  both rubbings turned out well and these shall be used in a future craft. 

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

miscellaneous

on the road again.  time in the car allowed me to see lots of license plates.  it amazed that two from alaska were observed within an hour of each other.  many others already checked off the list, such as washington, texas, arizona were also spotted.  it confounds that plates from so far away are right under my nose but the few remaining that are closer geographically aren't anywhere to be found! 

learned a new craft last week that could very well become a whimsical wednesday project.  it would make a great stocking stuffer! 

Monday, October 17, 2011

get ready.....

aren't the fall leaves beautiful?  this whimsical wednesday gather a handful of leaves from different trees and make leaf rubbings.  to make a leaf rubbing, put a piece of paper over a leaf then rub across the leaf with the flat of a crayon.  another way to create a leaf rubbing is to put the leaf on a piece of paper then rub across the leaf with the flat of a crayon.  with both ways to create a leaf rubbing, be sure to color beyond the leaf's outer edge all the way around the leaf.  a leaf over or under the paper will create a different effect so try both.

Friday, October 14, 2011

photo friday


we had a great holiday weekend over columbus day.  jacob and megan fished for the first time.  they each caught two fish out of the farm's lake.  such excitement!  the fish were happy as well.  after being snagged and admired, the fish were returned to the water.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

thoughtful thursday

in several diverse locations, i have been observing squirrels preparing for winter. they scamper about, gather all variety of nuts (here it's hickory nuts and acorns), then bury these for cold weather munching.  people need to be like squirrels.  we need to think ahead and be prepared for all the seasons of life.  being prepared helps keep the whimsey in full force.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

hello a week later!  the internet was out here for almost a week.  we pick up where we left off, whimsical wednesday; last week's holiday card making activity.

my card creation was made with postcard sized card stock.  the card was embellished on one side with stamping (ink and pattern in stamp form) and spica glitter pens.  simple yet very effective.  i'm looking forward to sending them to family and friends for christmas 2011.

did you create holiday cards for whimsical wednesday?

Monday, October 3, 2011

get ready.....

this year, make your own christmas cards.  to help get this process started (with october upon us it's not too soon to begin) we will create christmas cards this whimsical wednesday.

tips for card crafting:

1.  card stock can be purchased in packages of various quantities; in colors and white.
* one sheet of card stock folded in half becomes a large card requiring an envelope.
* one sheet of card stock cut in half along the width makes two pieces that, when folded in half, makes two smaller cards requiring envelopes.
* one sheet of card stock cut into quarters becomes four post cards.

my favorite card size and style is the post card.  not only is less paper used but post card postage is cheaper than first class postage.

2. decorate your cards with stickers, markers, stamps/inks, personal messages, anything you desire to use. if you have children, involve them in the process.  each year i look forward to receiving holiday cards that children have helped to craft. these cards have a delightful simplicity that convey the joy of the season unlike any other cards that come my way.

each year my goal is to mail christmas cards the monday after thanksgiving.  not only does this put me in the holiday mood but it's fun to be the first to greet family and friends with a heartfelt merry christmas. i'm already thinking about my holiday card creating for whimsical wednesday!

coming in the comment section of this post will be additional christmas card ideas and tips from a paper crafting expert, my sister!

Saturday, October 1, 2011

october!

it's the first day of october!  it really feels like fall once october arrives.  veggie soup bubbling in a huge pot on the stove.  leaves beginning to show brilliant colors. cool morning. hot tea.  HAPPY OCTOBER everyone!

Friday, September 30, 2011

photo friday

presenting the kittens i wrote about tuesday; two of them at least!

the kittens making their first approach toward me since mama (on the other side of  kittens) moved them to the porch.  

second photo taken of the kittens first approach toward me.  the third kitten remained just beyond the camera, being a bit more shy than the siblings.  (shy kitten has been dubbed YOU) 

Thursday, September 29, 2011

thoughtful thursday

do you ever find yourself thinking about where you were, what you were doing and who you were with a year (a month, a week, several years) ago from the present day?  newspapers publish columns proclaiming "on this date in history" in which we walk back in time while reading.  if we do this for ourselves we can think about our own history in the same way (and be glad it's not published in the newspaper; at least to my way of thinking!).  i find that i think about a specific time most often when that experience was full of happiness, exciting and/or with wonderful persons.  of course, the sad and rough times in life can bubble up unbidden as well. however, it's the good that really comes to mind more often.  it's a wonderful way to keep the best of our lives ever present.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

my favorite emoticon was learned from a new twitter friend, heather.  presenting..........

\0/

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

miscellaneous

there are a bunch of kitties who have decided to call the farm home.  they aren't pets or companions.  they just want a place to live and something to eat.  they get both. they entertain (if they don't know they are being observed) and surprise. when i returned home from travel last week, it was revealed that one of the kitties was mama to three kittens.  she must have been raising them behind the grandchildren's playhouse in the tall, bushy decorative grasses.  now that they are older they run around the playhouse and the "lawn" in front of the playhouse. currently they are on the front porch as mama must have decided to move them to new digs in the last few days.  the mama is the only outside kitty that will actually come near me and allow me to touch her.  with the kittens intently observing, i have been talking to, stroking and picking up their mama.  hopefully, as this process continues, they will allow me to do the same with them.  no doubt megan and jacob would love having a few more kitties to play with.  and the naming of said kittens will be top priority.  mama i call little bit because she is small for an adult cat.  she and all the kittens are orange.  i'm looking forward to the names the three wee ones will get.  (one has to be named YOU.  it seems that even if critters get names when i talk to them they all become you.  one might as well actually have you for a name!)

shopping is a task i do not enjoy.  it is only undertaken when necessary.  it was necessary last week.  goodness!  going into the store for cat food and being confronted with halloween, thanksgiving and christmas all at the same time (on shelves next to each other on both sides of the aisle!) was disconcerting.  and it's only september!  if i walk into a store and hear christmas music, i will exit immediately!!!!!!!


Monday, September 26, 2011

get ready.....

for whimsical wednesday, let's display our favorite emoticons.  post them on the blog.  send them in tweets and emails to others.  have fun with them.  do they match your mood?

Friday, September 23, 2011

photo friday


HAPPY GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY!!!!!  my gift of homemade jam was shared with my nearest neighbors.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

thoughtful thursday

slow, gentle rain makes for a lovely day.  the grayness of the sky casts quiet, low light in the house.  perfect for candle burning.  in addition to the aroma of the candle filling the air, the flickering glow of the flame becomes a dancing focal point. along with the candle, classical music playing softly in the background completes a warm, cozy atmosphere.  a cup of hot tea, a good book; both savored while snuggled under a blanket.  a day of slow, gentle rain is something to look forward to and eagerly enjoy when present.  

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

friday is good neighbor day.  our whimsical wednesday activity centered on creating something to share with a neighbor or neighbors.  (and we defined neighbor very broadly in order to accommodate everyone participating.)

when the grandchildren were here we made freezer jam, strawberry and peach.  one batch of peach jam was put into baby food jars with the intention of giving these as gifts.  peach jam will be given on friday to the neighbors for good neighbor day.

enhancing the jars of jam was my whimsical wednesday activity.  labels, PEACH JAM, were made to put on the top of the jars.  the jars were put into small sandwich bags and tied with a ribbon.  attached to the ribbon were gift tags, HAPPY GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY!  the papers, pens and ribbons were all colorful thus creating very festive gifts for the neighbors.

i'm looking forward to passing these out on friday.  tell me about your whimsical wednesday preparations for good neighbor day.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

miscellaneous

travel last week had me on the road for several hours.  absolutely there was license plate hunting!  one drawback i have discovered with this game;  it's not as easy to read those small letters as it used to be.  no doubt i have missed a few needed plates just because i couldn't read them.  despite this impediment, another plate was sighted:  virginia.  amazingly, i saw two plates from the state of virginia within an hour's time.

driving along the interstates of america brings sights that provoke surprise, disbelief and laughter.  while driving the last 50 miles of interstate before my exit, i found myself behind a large pick up truck pulling a horse trailer. i had to study this vehicle for awhile to register what i was actually looking at.  along the road side of the trailer, three horse heads were poking out of the windows!  their manes were blowing in the wind, their heads lifted slightly.  horses on a journey of their own!  as i passed them, a single word came to mind; sublime!

Monday, September 19, 2011

get ready.....

friday, september 23rd is good neighbor day.  this whimsical wednesday, create something to share with a neighbor or neighbors.  (the term can be applied literally or figuratively, as neighbors are where we find them!)

Friday, September 16, 2011

photo friday

this sweet little doggie belongs to the grandchildren.  she rooted around in these blankets until she was completely buried then popped out again, quite comfortably arranged for a snooze.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

thoughtful thursday

i've just returned home from a week away.  while it was very pleasant to be where i was and who i was with, it is so good to be home.  because there's no place like home!  more another day......

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

to observe national classical month, our whimsical wednesday activity was to listen to classical music!   currently i am visiting mom and dad.  their cable tv programming includes music channels.  last night before going to bed i set the tv on the classical music station.  i woke very early, it was still dark, and turned on the music.  drowsey, i listened to whatever was offered until i fell back to sleep.  upon awakening a bit later the sounds of a lovely piece greeted me. because i wasn't paying attention to the tv screen, i have no idea what specific pieces or composers i was listening to.  what a wonderful way to begin the day!  because it's a lovely way to begin the day (and it will still be whimsical wednesday when i go to bed) i do believe i shall end the day the way it began....listening to classical music!  hoped you enjoyed as well.

Monday, September 12, 2011

get ready.....

september is national classical music month.  for whimsical wednesday, take time to enjoy listening to something classical.  perhaps you have a favorite or would like to explore and hear something new!

Friday, September 9, 2011

photo friday


flowers are very whimsical to me.  flowers painted by a child brings an overabundance of whimsey!  this painting was created by my grandson, jacob.  he was privileged to have the painting featured in the center's catalogue where he and megan take classes.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

thoughtful thursday

will smith stars in a movie entitled "seven pounds" in which he plays a character who is trying to atone for a huge mistake.  while speaking with one of the characters he said, "i haven't treated myself very well in the last few years".  to which she replied, "start now".  if you haven't treated yourself very well, start now.  if you know someone who hasn't treated themselves very well, urge them to start now. when we treat ourselves well, it becomes more possible for us to treat others well. start now.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

the day began with enjoying pages in the grandchildren's activity books.  most of the dot-to-dots were already completed but a few appeared for me to enjoy.  bonus! i was able to do my favorite feature in the activity books.  there were mazes, decoding, circling the missing components of an object, which item is different from the others.  and my other favorite feature: color by number!  besides spending a pleasant hour playing with the activity books, i enjoyed looking at the pages already completed by the grandchildren.  because these books have been on the shelf for several years, it was great to look at how their drawings, coloring, letters and numbers changed as they aged.  the best pages were the side by side ones that we had done together.  when i was a child, my sister and i did pages side by side. and my children and i did pages side by side.  of course these would be my favorites in the grandchildren's activity books.  what a great way to begin the day.  now i'm ready for the appointments and errands....

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

miscellaneous

there's nothing of note to offer today so i'll just say hello to everyone!

hi!!!!!!

Monday, September 5, 2011

get ready.....

let's play this whimsical wednesday.  purchase an inexpensive kids' activity book, if you don't have one already at home, and enjoy what it has to offer (i love dot-to-dot!).

Friday, September 2, 2011

photo friday


surprises in nature are awesome!  there is a wee tree growing in the fork of this old maple.  a tiny home for all manner of creatures.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

thoughtful thursday

even though it's the first day of september, summer continues to assert its presence as it's 101 degrees today. however, a touch of fall can be felt in the air; especially in the cool of the very early morning and late evening.  as soon as that first tinge of fall is noticed, i begin to watch for more signs that summer will leave and the earth will prepare for the long winter's nap.  it won't be long until the leaves become bright with color and fall to the ground (when i was a child, i thought autumn was called fall because the leaves fell off the trees!).  the squirrels and birds, most notably the woodpeckers, will begin to store the hickory nuts and acorns that seem to be available just for that purpose.  soon the hummingbirds will leave for their winter home and they will be missed until they return next spring.  even though the gold finches will remain (i recently learned) their feathers will lose the bright yellow that sets them apart.  but i now know the finch feeders need to remain in place and kept filled during the winter.  and suet cakes.  i actually make these for the birds and enjoy sharing something homemade with them.  the farmer across the road will cut the hay field at least once more before allowing the cows to graze there through the winter.  and the woolly worms.  i love the woolly worms that are everywhere in the fall.  they make me giggle.  as summer wanes, there's so much to look forward to as fall arrives.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

new taste sensations!  that's what we are about today for whimsical wednesday.  my sister enjoys a mix of peanuts and candy corn (brach's brand ONLY!).  dad puts whole green grapes in his cereal and milk for breakfast.  a friend likes cool whip on pickles!  many enjoy ketchup on scrambled eggs.  growing up in the south, people loved pouring a small bag of salted peanuts into a coca-cola (a 10 ounce bottle!) and downing both.  we also drank hot dr pepper with a lemon slice in it.  the grandchildren like bananas with peanut butter and chocolate chips.


a great deal of thought about what my food combinations would be occurred over the last few days.  by last night i settled on three combinations.  the combinations were:


apple and pickled ginger
carrot and orange marmalade
peanuts and whipped cream


a big deal was made of my food combinations as they were arrayed on a lovely plate.  a glass of water
accompanied the sample plate in order to have a palate cleanser in between tastes.  (giggle.....)  the food combinations were tasted in the order written above.


the apple and pickled ginger was a burst of sharp and mild that melded into a wonderful taste.  this combination was surprisingly yummy!  the carrot and orange marmalade was subtle with the marmalade taking the edge off the bitter aftertaste that can come with munching raw carrots.  the peanuts and whipped cream was "dessert" and came together with that great balance of sweet and salty that makes foods particularly delightful to me.  my choices for new taste sensations might have to be developed further into recipes!


what new taste sensations did you create for whimsical wednesday?





Tuesday, August 30, 2011

miscellaneous

the few weeks the grandchildren visit in august is packed full with fun, adventure, happy times and lots of love.  it's my favorite time of year (after thanksgiving weekend when all the family comes to the farm).  because those weeks are everything grandchildren, not much else beyond the bare minimum gets attention. thus, no miscellaneous entries for the last few weeks.

one of the activities megan, jacob and i do every year is make jam.  this year we made jam with strawberries that we grew here on the farm.  and peach jam made with locally grown peaches.  besides preparing the fruit for jam, we had our fill of tasting the fruit (there's always more fruit than is necessary for jam just for nibbling).

they enjoy whimsical wednesday so activities are selected during their visits that they will especially enjoy.  there are several acitivies that are reserved for doing when they are with me and i am looking forward to doing those together.

on the journey back to their home we saw a license plate from oregon.  and another one from nevada.  that leaves seven state license plates to spy on the road.  it's amazing we have seen 43 states in less than a year's time.



Monday, August 29, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday try a new food combination.  select foods that wouldn't be typically paired.  what were the results?

Friday, August 26, 2011

photo friday

the little mouse, who lives in my tote, met new friends on our recent visit to chicago.  (the bowl they are nesting in was made by one of the grandchildren but i can't remember which one!)


Thursday, August 25, 2011

thoughtful thursday

one of the highlights of visits to my daughter's home is spending time with the grandchildren in their bedrooms.  while the house reflects the family, the bedrooms are unique to each child.  these wonderlands are such fun to share because these spaces are definitely them.  each visit brings something new to discover and i look forward to being surprised by what i find of them in their bedrooms.  

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

today for whimsical wednesday we looked for the anything purple.  since i was on the road for five hours, there was a lot more purple along the route home than i imagined there would be.

i saw purple:

as an accent on 10 trucks.
2 sport utility vehicles (suv).
a balloon.
a banner.
2 billboards, the produce on one and the background on the other.
a car windshield reflector (for the sun).
14 cars.
a bin of plums.
a boat.
one pickup truck.
2 bowls.
the cabs of 24 tractor-trailer trucks.
an afhgan.
the trailers of 2 tractor-trailer trucks.
2 mugs.
2 books.
2 quilts.
1 ball.
1 vase.
a sign.
a trailer being pulled by a truck.
5 paintings.
a rig attached to a huge truck.
a lid.
design on a milk carton.
an ad in a newspaper.
a houseplant.
dvd/vhs tape covers.
flowers.
a design on a cream and sugar bowl set.
flower pot.
eeyore!

it was amazing that there are so many purple vehicles of all shapes and sizes on the road.  it must be the new favorite color for vehicles.
it was amazing that that much purple could be seen in 6 hours.  it was expected that purple would be less accessible than more typical colors.


Monday, August 22, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday we shall look for the color purple.  where did you find it throughout your day?


Friday, August 19, 2011

Thursday, August 18, 2011

thoughtful thursday

there is nothing as grand as time shared with very special people.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

it's play your favorite kid game this whimsical wednesday!

when i was very young my favorite kid game was pick-up sticks.  the goal was to move sticks away from the others (that had been released onto a table to fall into a random pattern) without disturbing any of the other sticks.  one could pick up as many sticks as possible until another one was disturbed.  then it was the next person's turn.

with the grandchildren visiting we played pick-up sticks with 500 toothpicks!  that made for a challenging game as well as one that would last longer.  we laughed at each other's attempts to move the sticks without disturbing any of the others.  they laughed at me when i missed the simplest move.  we laughed just for the joy of having fun together.

play a few favorite kid games today and laugh, laugh, laugh!

Monday, August 15, 2011

get ready.....

we will play our favorite kid game this whimsical wednesday.  there was one i loved as a kid and played it over and over and over again......  

Friday, August 12, 2011

photo friday

this little critter was found in a parking lot while i was traveling.  he lives in my tote and gets his photo taken from time to time.  this photo was the first, taken at mom and dad's in tennessee.




Thursday, August 11, 2011

thoughtful thursday

i looked out the window this morning to find megan in the hammock.  she was gently swinging, humming to herself and looking at nothing in particular but seeing everything the farm has to offer.  she was doing what ten year olds do; actually enjoying the moment without a thought beyond being right there.  i stood at the window and savored watching her doing seemingly not much but she was actually doing a great deal.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

whimsical wednesday and magic carpet rides!  this activity is something i have thought about since monday.  where to go?  where to go on a magic carpet?  i would like to go to places on the earth that are natural and mostly devoid of human activity; wherever in the world these places are. places like easter island, new zealand, the galapago islands.  i want to see the world of plants and animals and breathtaking environments so wonderful it's difficult to believe these exist on planet earth.    (also, i would like the magic carpet to take me to visit family and friends quickly and without my need to drive!)

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

miscellaneous

the grandchildren have arrived.  the house is a mess and kid created chaos abounds. it's grand!

last week i beheld the most amazing "ugly" truck ever.  a dump truck as rusty as i've ever seen a truck.  that the truck was somewhat ugly wasn't the amazing aspect of the vehicle.  the dump truck was being utilized as a moving van.  it was completely overflowing with household items that were mounded in such a heap that it looked as if any bump or jarring would send it all spilling onto the roadway!  if a rusty dump truck filled with furniture wasn't amazing enough, it became even more amazing indeed!  behind the dump truck was a huge boat in tow.  ok.  rusty dump truck filled with household items pulling a boat isn't that amazing.  however, the boat was also filled to capacity with stuff!  the entire assemblage continued along its determined way looking like a very unique self-contained parade.  had an artist conceived of this for exhibit, it would have been roundly dismissed! sometimes that saying, "fact is stranger than fiction" is absolutely true.  life as art in the form of a rusty dump truck filled with household items pulling a huge boat also filled with stuff!  and i got to experience it!

Monday, August 8, 2011

get ready.....

for this whimsical wednesday, imagine a very windy day that takes you away on a magic carpet.  where would you go on this ride?

Thursday, August 4, 2011

thoughtful thursday

when younger, it was distressing to me if any of the items in the home, such as the furniture or dishes, were marred.  it seemed the only way for these items to be of value they had to remain pristine; perfect.  items didn't have to be expensive or rare, as that doesn't impress, however, they had to be nice.   as time passed and life brought children, pets and grandchildren, a discovery was made.  the dins, chips, scratches actually represented that the home (and what it contained) was lived in! as i look about my current home after fifteen years of living, i find the typical wear comforting instead of distressing.  there are stickers on windows, cupboard doors, in the closet courtesy of very wee grandchildren who thought stickers were the best ever and of course their grandmother would want them everywhere!  the front door frame is scuffed as are a few of the window sills.  evidence that the various dogs and kitties have been doing their dog and kitty thing; romping on the porch and using it as a chew toy, on hind legs with paws on the sill in order to look out the window or sitting in the sill to enjoy the view beyond the window for long periods of time.  the new teapot's spout was chipped slightly when my daughter was filling it with water. she was horrified and apologetic.  but every time i use that teapot (which i do daily), i look at that chip on the spout and think of her!  these are just a few of the many reminders that are present in a house that is lived in.  these reminders make a house a home; reminders of life lived that always bring a smile.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

over tea this morning, i attempted to blind draw a frog, dog and hog.  all three were drawn side by side without peeking in between the figures.  when i did look, i was surprised at how well the frog, dog and hog turned out.  they were wonky but i could tell that each figure was a frog, a dog and a hog!  giggle....  a great way to begin the day; laughing over the silly results of blind drawing.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

miscellaneous

the grand list for all the 50 state license plates and when they were sighted has been misplaced.  that prompted a look through the blog to recreate the list.  while looking for license plate listed as sighted, i paused to reread some of the entries. the year has been full and lots of fun!  it brings great satisfaction to be involved in the whimsey project.  back to license plates.....  another was seen in the grocery store parking lot late last week; west virginia.  that brings the total sighted to 42 states!  only eight more and all 50 state license plates will have been seen!

Monday, August 1, 2011

get ready.....

this whimsical wednesday, draw blind!

-- Choose frog, dog or hog-- Open the PAINT program on your computer [or similar program]
-- Make your tool choices [brush type, color of the line you'll make, all that]
-- Close your eyes and "draw" the animal you've chosen -- no peeking!
-- Only lift your finger off the mouse controller after you are finished with the drawing
-- Share your results!

or you can be very old-fashioned and use paper and pencil!

Friday, July 29, 2011

photo friday

twitter is a grand vehicle to spark creativity!  take a look at the art of twitter:
http://irkafirka.com

Thursday, July 28, 2011

thoughtful thursday

there's something about the feeling that swells when returning home from a journey.  the anticipation that grows as home nears, is palpable.  once through the door, the envelopment of the familiar environment embraces.  then the ritual of settling in again begins.  when all is as it should be, a cup of tea and a visit with the kitty cats (who are so happy to see mommy again) completes the welcome home.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

snatched sentence poetry.  my submission, composed of selected tweets:

got anything to perk me up?
i would like to eat 345 plums.
an exceptionally sharp type of cheese.
two lawn tickets should never cost $70.
i can speak some french, lady!!
real names can cause real damage.

a little music, a little dance, a little salsa in your pants!
keep 'em coming, guys, this is fun.....

i'll send it in a minute;
drinking coffee at benzhaus.
emma looked stunning.
unimpressed cat is unimpressed.
risk it;
luckily no damage inside.
maybe he was holding out for some ranch dressing.
words fail the civilized.
this made me feel smart today.
does anyone want to go halfsies on a giraffe with me?

Monday, July 25, 2011

get ready.....

everyone reads a great deal of bits of prose from various sources in the course of a day.  this whimsical wednesday, pay closer attention to what is read.  snatch sentences that really grab then assemble the sentences into a poem.  share your poem on the blog.

Friday, July 22, 2011

photo friday

what is more whimsical than to find a sunflower growing where none was planted? not planted by humans that is. but definitely planted when sunflower seeds in the bird food fell to the earth from the porch rail and sprouting!

Thursday, July 21, 2011

thoughtful thursday

it's been so hot, the temperature almost pushes away everything wonderful about summer.  summer brings an abundance of everything! there are fresh fruits and vegetables, often fruits and vegetables we grow ourselves.   the art of gardening brings such satisfaction.  there is also the opportunity to makes pies, ice cream, jams, pickles, spaghetti sauce, salsa and other delights as well as "put up" fruits and vegetables to enjoy during the cold months of the year.  the variety of flowers that bloom is breathtaking.  flowers are everywhere.  gardens burst with shapes, sizes and colors that fill the senses like nothing else seems to.  particularly joyful are the wildflowers along the roadsides; happily growing where a flower shouldn't be able to grow.  the birds sing louder, the frogs croak and the insects scratch out their music incessantly, fireflies wink, butterflies playfully flutter midair, young animals learning about their world abound.  activities that are typically only enjoyed during the summer are eagerly looked forward to.  the summer evenings stretch into forever making the cares of the world fall away if only for awhile.  when it's cold and gray, the memories of the abundance of summer sustain.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

home again from the excursion to town for lunch, errands and, the most important task of the day, looking for an ugly truck for whimsical wednesday.  my day was almost over before an ugly truck was spied.  it seemed i wouldn't have seen one at all when this one appeared.  it was old with a dull red color.  it looked as if the body had had the paint removed (perhaps rust?) and painted with a yucky orange colored primer.  the tailgate was black.  all the chrome was pocked and marred. overall, a decent ugly truck but also somewhat disappointing as i was primed to find a really ugly truck.  soon after i saw the ugly truck an extremely ugly car came into view.  wow was it ugly!  it was a large older car.  the original color was white.  all along the sides of the car were several different colors of paint.  these colors also seemed to be primer covering removed rust.  the windows were covered with cracks and decals of very shapes and sizes.  it's doubtful either of my ugly vehicle sightings would win any prizes in ugly vehicle competition, however, i had fun looking and was glad to have seen even one slightly ugly truck.  no doubt i stop searching for ugly trucks because i'm still on the lookout for the rest of the state license plates that have yet to be spotted!

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

miscellaneous

it is sooooooo hot!  we do what we can to stay cool.  choosing foods like salads, ice cream, fruit, popsicles and iced tea are just some of what we consume during the summer to be refreshed.  to add to the summer menu choices here are beverage recipes from my daughter, libby:

Frozen Hot Chocolate (makes about 6 cups)

- 1.5 c milk
- 1/4 c chocolate chips [or approx that amount chocolate of your choice]
- 1 packet hot cocoa mix [or 1 oz from a can]
- 3 trays ice [around 3 cups or just keep adding if you like the mix freezier]

Melt chocolate chips in 1/2 c milk. Add cocoa mix & a bit of sugar to taste as milk heats; continue to stir & blend while everything melts. As with cooking of things dairy, don't allow to boil or singe, just cook on low until all ingredients are uniformly blended.

Dump chocolate mixture in blender with the remaining 1 c milk. Give it a few whirls to mix.

Add ice, as much at a time that your blender will happily crunch into, until all ice is gone.

Whirr a bit longer to fully blend. Pour into containers of choice. Serve with a spoon, as it does separate a mite once resting.

This recipe is easy enough to tinker with to your preferences. A bit more chocolate if you like it more chocolaty, more cocoa mix if it doesn't have enough of that cocoa flavor, add in mint liqueur or some other sort of alcoholic deliciousness.  

(recipe inspired by frozen hot chocolate advertisement at dunkin donuts; saw the sign and thought I could do better!)

Frozen Lemonade  (makes about 6 cups)

Just lemonade and ice crushed in the blender. I start with 2 cups of lemonade, add lots of ice, and might add more lemonade if it needs more wet to blend easier.*

*here's libby's fresh lemonade recipe to use as the ingredient in the frozen lemonade:

6 lemons, juiced
1 to 2 cups of sugar (to taste)
1 to 1 1/2 quarts of water (to taste)

tip:  bring at least 3 cups of the water to a boil to pour over the combined sugar and lemon juice. stir until the sugar has melted.  add the rest of the water to the lemon juice/sugar/water mixture in a pitcher.  chill.


ALSO.......
check out the beautiful jewelry made by a twitter friend:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/laurelmoonjewelry




Monday, July 18, 2011

get ready.....

wednesday is july 20th.  according to the calendar of daily observances it is national UGLY TRUCK day!  ugly truck day is explained as follows:

Ugly Truck Day
Today many States in the Union will be holding "Ugly Truck" competitions.  While the rules change from State to State, everyone agrees that Ugly Trucks deserve love too.  Entrants range from old wrecks hobbling along on three wheels to trucks ornately decorated with stickers, bugs and mud.


to celebrate, we will be on the lookout for ugly trucks!  happy ugly truck hunting and be sure to look for the whimsey!  

Friday, July 15, 2011

photo friday

today's photo features a card my granddaughter created for me when she was about four years old.  the drawing was so cute and happy, it was definitely a keeper.  about the time she gave me the card, i read the bit of wisdom written on the card.  that wisdom was also a keeper so the two were combined.  when megan saw that i had written on the card she asked me why.  my reply was that her card and those words were keepers so i decided to keep them together.  the card rests on a shelf in my room where it can greet me daily.  and megan is thrilled to find it there whenever she visits.  enjoy!


"don't get older, get better.  live realistically.  give generously.  adapt willingly.  trust fearlessly.  rejoice daily."
                                                                                                                 ........charles r swindell

Thursday, July 14, 2011

thoughtful thursday

being interested in a wide variety of what is floating about in the world, everyday i discover something to be surprised and excited about.  because i want to hold on to as many of these discoveries as possible, i began keeping a "notable notebook" in which to record these gems.  the notable notebook is an eclectic blend of quotes, words and definitions, observations of experiences, comments on culture (art, music, theater, dance, books), interactions with others or nature, and anything else that inspires the reaction, "this must be written in the notable notebook!".   it is not uncommon for a morsel from someone i know to be inscribed in the notebook and they are told.  this usually prompts the necessity to explain what the notable notebook is all about and, once understood, they are pleased.  me too.  it's grand to browse through the notebook and enjoy moments all over again.  you can have a notable notebook too.  enjoy!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

whimsical wednesday!

our activity for whimsical wednesday is to select the one word that we feel denotes HAPPY; then find related words in the thesaurus.

the word that most denotes HAPPY for me is CONTENT.

the related words to CONTENT found are:

blissful
satisfied
thrilled
comfortable
elated
gratified
delighted
fulfilled
tolerable
pleased
joyous
serene

the range of emotion encompassed within the words mined from the thesaurus to denote CONTENT is revealing as well as somewhat surprising.  my whimsical wednesday word hunt leaves me "content" with the outcome.

what's your word for happy?

Monday, July 11, 2011

get ready.....

words describe.   for whimsical wednesday, think of the one word that best describes any happy feeling you experience.  (please don't rely on the word happy!) after choosing your word, use the thesaurus to find the array of additional words that convey the meaning of your single selection.  you'll be thrilled at all the words you discover that describes your feeling!