Tea and friendship Tuesday's.......

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me. This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups, recipes, poems, personal stories, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

"A forever friend is a gift given to us

even through we may not deserve it.

He or she makes us feel rich-

even when we're not-

and leaves us with a warm memory

of the way their eyes brighten

each time we meet."

-Forever friends-

The Clever Factory Inc.

I just love party favors. I think they look so pretty and are such a special touch to any table. One of the things that I like to do for our family Christmas celebrations is make crackers. Our grandson Ryan usually helps me in some way by either gluing, filling, or shopping for the gifts.

Crackers are a fun and whimsical British tradition that can be used for any holiday, on any type of family celebration, or as party favors for a special tea. It is a tradition that started in the Victorian era, as early as the mid 1840's, and was invented by a cook named Tom Smith.

I make my crackers a little differently in that I do not use card board paper tubes. Instead, I use standard card stock paper. I cut each sheet in half and then glue wrapping paper to one side of it. I like to use wrapping paper made of foil, or with a touch of glitter in it, or is shiny in some way so that when the candles are lit the light bounces of the paper and makes the crackers look especially pretty.

After the glue has dried I cut two pieces of tissue paper as wide as the card stock paper. I leave the length as is so there is tissue paper hanging evenly over each side of the card stock paper. Then I glue the tissue paper to the opposite side of the wrapping paper on the piece of card stock. You don't have to glue the pieces of tissue paper separately because they will stay together unless you pull them apart. After the glue is dry, form the card stock into a tube, and staple it together at each end. The crackers will be a little larger than the ones you can purchase in the store.

Next I fill the crackers with little gifts. I use all kinds of things to fill them with like tiny bottles of shampoo or lotion, lip gloss, match box cars, rings, bracelets, candy, and sometimes even a handkerchief. It's also nice to tuck in little messages, poems, riddles, or other greetings of some kind. The crackers can be customized for baby showers, weddings, and birthdays. The possiblities are endless.

After I have inserted my gifts I gently twist the ends and tie them with ribbon. I like to use gold, or silver, but any type of ribbon that will pick up the light will do. The last step is to very gently pull the tissue paper apart in order to fluff it up. This year I used two different colors of tissue paper.

Crackers are a fun addition to any celebration. Our family usually sits down and opens them together. They make great conversation pieces. We usually trade our gifts back and forth until we all get something we can use, and our grandchildren, of course, can wind up with those little Match Box cars :>)

Well, I have to get back to making my crackers or I won't have them finished in time for Christmas.

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday everyone!

With warmest regards, Carol

What's that? Don't worry Charli. You'll get a cracker too.

A Christmas tree of memories.....

A Christmas tree of memories......

"Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree,

with faithful leaves unchanging.

Each year you bring to me delight,

meaning in the Christmas night.

Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree,

of all the trees most lovely."

I love Christmas and especially all the beautiful Christmas

trees that everyone seems to have. Each one is so pretty, stylish, and special in it's own way. Here at our house we are especially grateful for

our Christmas tree this year, because

with my hubby so sick last year, for the very

first time in forty-three years, we didn't have one. That was a big mistake! We really missed not having a Christmas tree and

have vowed that no matter what happens we will always have one from here on end.

As you can see our tree is a hodge podge of tiny things with no particular style or order. Do you see that little styrofoam church? Well I made that church when I was five years old. I can still remember the trouble I got into when my mother found me in the utilitity room craving it out with one of her kitchen knives. All the while I was protested saying, "but mom I only wanted to make a church." Even though I had no artistic ability even way back then that little church hung on my mom's large tree, and then table top tree until the year she died in 1984. At that time I brought it home with me and it has been hanging on my tree ever since.

Up above is our grandson Ryan's ornament and underneath it a precious nurse Anne and Mike gave me years ago.

I have also collected dated Hallmark ornaments through the years that are scattered here and there on our tree.

This cute little santa was given to my hubby and I by our son Kurt when he was in first grade. I think it's so adorable! Kurt was so excited to give us this gift. It's hard to believe he is now thirty six years old!

The pretty green bulb above is one that was given to us by my hubby's mother the first year we were married.

There are our grandson's Michael and Tommy's special ornaments.

That little pink bird up above was given to me on a day spent shopping with my dear Aunt Rose in the mid sixties.

When our son Tom was in gradeschool he gave me a package of red bulbs one year for Christmas. He knew how special the Christmas tree has always been to me ♥

There seems to be a story associated with each and every bulb on our tree. When our children were younger, every year as I was decorating the tree, I would tell them the story of every bulb.

The little paper cut out Christmas tree was made by our grandson Michael one Sunday afternoon while he was visiting at our house. It's very special to me because I remember all of the fun we had drawing and just being together that day ♥

Isn't this the sweetest tree top? My cousin Pam took the time and had the talent to made my mother and I each one years ago. I always kept mine on the branches of my tree but when my mother died I brought her angel home and she has been our tree top ever since.

This colorful little snowman was given to me by our grandson Thomas when he was in the first grade. I imediately fell in love with it ♥ I asked him if he was sure he wanted to give it to me and not his parents but he said he made it special just for my tree. This grandma still gets tears in her eyes every time I hang it.

My mother gave me the little red elf mouse when I had admired it on a shopping trip one day. There is a set of them. One is green and the other one is red.

Our son Michael made us this sweet little santa when he was in first grade. It was our very first Christmas gift from one of our son's. We were so proud and happy to recieve it. Mike is forty-three years old today. Where has all of the time gone?

That little dough lady is a gift from my sister and the pretty bell is another ornament given to us by my hubby's mother the first year we were married.

Our son Tom made us this little angel in cub scouts. Isn't she just devine? I can still remember how excited he was as we were unwrapping the package. Tom is thirty-nine years old today but I can still picture him, as well as, our other two son's as little boys running around the house laughing, playing, and being silly. My hubby and I eventually became den leaders ourselves and remained den leaders until our son Kurt no longer had interest in doing it.

The little closepin soldier was sent to me in a Christmas card by my cousin Florence years ago.

This beautiful angel was hand made especially for me by my Aunt Helen. I think it's so pretty ♥ She made one for each of her neices one year for Christmas. She was so thoughtful! I loved her dearly.

Here is our darling granddaughter Jessica's special ornament.

The little ornament that says merry Christmas was given to me by a co- worker, a wonderful girl named Kathy. We still send each other Christmas cards.

The yellow bulb is the oldest one on our tree. It hung on my mother's tree through out my childhood.

I wish I could show you all of the bulbs on my tree and tell you all of the stories behind them. I would like to show you the very last Christmas card my mother and father sent us. My father died in 1984, two days after Thanksgiving, and my mother was buried Christmas Eve the very same year. For some reason in my grief it helped to see that card hanging on our tree and it has hung there ever since. It is in the shape of a dove.

Then there is the bulb my dad pulled out of his pocket one warm summer day. He said he had gotten it at a garage sale, and knowing how I treasured these types of things, he bought it so I would always remember him :>)

There is also the covered wagon ornament given to me by one of my patients mothers. The patient was a sixteen year old boy who came to our unit with severe tramatic injuries and remained in a coma for six weeks. The neurologist didn't give the parents much hope that he would recover but his mother never lost hope or faith that he would. Guess what? He woke up on his his mother's birthday. That is a whole post in it's self, and yes, I do believe in miracles.

I never tire of looking at our tree and all the memories it holds. I think our family and friends enjoy it as much as we do. So often I will find my family standing around our tree smiling, laughing, and even teasing one another about certain ornaments.

My tree skirt was hand made and a gift to us from my sister Marie. It's just beautiful! It's reversable. The other side is done in a red material with a border of tiny red ribbons scattered here and there.

And if you look closely you will see why we can't seem to keep Charli out from under the tree.

Throughout the day we will find our very undisciplined schnauzer pulling our Christmas mouse across the room by his tail. She can be very exasperating at times :>)

I hope you have enjoyed seeing some of my Christmas ornaments and tree. I am looking forward to seeing your decorations.

With warmest regards, Carol

Raindeer Punch..........

Raindeer Punch.....

As some of you know who have been following my blog I'm making Raindeer Punch for Christmas Eve. I was thinking that maybe the regular punch glasses might be a little hard for some of our grandson's to hold so I went out looking to see what I could find. I found these sweet little glasses at target. They are just perfect! They are about the same size as a punch glass, but no handle, and much more festive I think. I also found some raindeer napkins at the Dollar Store to go with them. The idea for the punch bowl was a little more difficult to come up with. Now promise not to laugh and scroll down please......
My hubby says it's the silliest thing he's ever seen. What ever! I think my raindeer punch bowl is kind of cute. Now all I have to do is insert the light into the bottom and I'm all set.

Happy weekend everyone!

Our little grand dog Sofie is coming over to spend the night tonight, and tomorrow one of our grands (Ryan) and great grand's (Aayden) are coming to lunch, so it's going to be fun and busy here. Just think! Charli is having her very first sleep over :>)

I will let you know how everything goes.

With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday hosted by Charli and me. This is a post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. It is a place to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

'Enjoy Moments of Happiness'

"I've been thinking about happiness-how wrong it is

ever to expect it to last or there to be a time of happiness.

It's not that, it's a moment of happiness.Almost every day

contains at least one moment of happiness."

-May Sarton-

in Endgame "

Happy Hopeful Friday everyone!

Peace be with you ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Booking Through Thursday.......

Welcome to Booking Though Thursday at http://btt2.wordpress.com/ This is a weekly post where book lovers like myself get together to have informal discussions about literature and books. If you would like to join us, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Booking Through Thursday web site......








This week our question is s follows....
"What's your favorite part of Booking Through Thursday ?
Why do you participate, or not?"

First, and foremost, I like Booking Through

Thursday because it has given me an

opportunity to meet some fabulous fellow

blogger's who share a common interest with me.

I have always enjoyed reading and I love to

hear other peoples points of view. I think it's fascinating how alike we are and yet so different. It's always interesting to find out what others are reading or what they have thought of a book I've read in the past. I have also gotten some great tips here on what's hot and what's not in the world of literature. My father taught me that it was very important not to stifle myself by staying in one little space, or circle, and I feel the blogger's here at Booking Through Thursday have helped me to expand my horizons and read literature I would never have thought of reading had I not been in this group.

Happy Booking Through Thursday everyone!

I hope you have a beautiful day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Tea and friendship Tuesday's.......

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me.This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups,recipes, poems, personal stories, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. If you would like to join me just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise,

thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

"Many a friendship, long, loyal, and self-sacrificing, rests on no thicker a foundation than a kind word."-Frederick W. Faber-

In my family Thanksgiving was always considered the kick off to the Christmas season, and although we didn't put up our tree until

much later the next month, we would see little hints of Christmas colors and sometimes even home made Christmas decorations hung here or there as early as Thanksgiving Day. When I was a little girl there was no such thing as an artificial Christmas tree and I can still remember all of the hoop-la when those trees started appearing in local stores in my late teens.

One of our family traditions every year at Thanksgiving, and again on Christmas Eve, was to have a fruit salad that my mother and grandmother called 'heavenly hash.'

I don't know where the recipe came from but it was always one of my favorite desserts so I have continued this tradition in my own family all these years. Do you see the pretty green and red colors? It looks very festive on the table and especially when placed in some sort of a crystal bowel. I think it would be a great addition to any tea table. It would look very pretty if it were served in little crystal dishes of some sort with seasonal napkins. It's really quite simple to make.
Heavenly Hash

2 cartons whipping cream

1 large box green jell-o

1 large box red jell-o

1 large can of fruit cocktail

At least one cup of mini marshmallows

At least one cup chopped nuts (I use walnuts)

Make jell-o the night before according to the directions on the package.

The next day take it out of the refrigerator and run a knife in straight lines, both ways, through it. Then place the jell-o in a large deep bowl. Drain the fruit cocktail and add to bowl. Make sure to drain well so the salad won't be watery. Whip the two cartons of whipping cream until peaks form. Add nuts, marshmallows, and whipping cream to the jell-o fruit cocktail bowl and fold all of the ingredients together. Transfer to a decorative bowl, cover, and refrigerate.

What are some of your favorite holiday traditions? I would love to hear from you.

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday everyone!

I hope all of you have a lovely day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Blue Monday.......

Welcome to Blue Monday, hosted by our friend Sally, at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ This is a weekly post where some of us blogger's get together to share something blue. Thank you Sally for hosting this fun post! If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Blue Monday web site........

This week I thought you might like to see my

gingerbread house. I wish I was talented like some of you and could make a real gingerbread house but unfortunately I'm not. I was very happy when I found this one. The blue for Blue Monday comes from the little gum drops on the roof. I purchased the house a year or so ago from Hallmarks. It is musical and plays one of my very favorite songs. When it plays music the little gum drops light up and sort of flash. I have attached a video at the end of this post so you will be able to see. Charli likes it as much as I do. I will scoop her up, push the button on the ginger bread house, and dance her around the room. Don't you just love all of the whimsy associated with Christmas?

I hope all of you had a wonderful and truly blessed Thanksgiving ♥

Happy Blue Monday everyone!

With warmest regards, Carol

Advent..... A time of love, hope, joy, and peace.....

ADVENT.........

Wishing all of you a blessed Advent and a season filled with love, hope, joy, and peace!

"All powerful God,
increase our strength of will for doing good
that Christ may find an eager welcome at his coming
and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven,
where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Lord bless us, protect us from evil, and bring us to everlasting life."
Amen
If you would like to learn more about Advent just click on the Advent candle on my sidebar.
I hope all of you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥
With warmest regards, Carol

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!......

Happy Thanksgiving and many blessings to you and your families! I hope all of you have a beautiful day ♥ I just wanted to say how thankful I am for all of you! Thank you so much for all of the lovely comments you leave here on this blog.

I wish we could take a little time out of our hectic schedules to have a cup of coffee or tea together but since that's not possible please know that I will be thinking about you. You just warm my heart through and though.......

With warmest regards, Carol

Up date on Charli :>)

Good evening everyone. Thank you so much for your kind words, thoughts, and prayers for our little pooch Charli. She is doing just fine. We went to the vets today where she had a very minor procedure, and if anything at all, she may have a slight infection. She is now romping through the house doing all of the silly things she does to keep herself as well as us amused. I hope all of you have had a good day ♥ I will be over to visit with all of you just as soon as I can. Thank you again for your concern about Charli. She is blessed to have so many kind and caring people in her life.
With warmest regards, Carol and Charli

Under the weather.....

Under the weather.......

Our poor little Charli is feeling under the weather. She has a doctor's appointment tomorrow. I'm sure it's nothing serious but I wanted to let you know I will not be able to post Tea and friendship Tuesday. I hope all of you have a lovely day. I will be thinking about you.
With warmest regards, Carol

Blue Monday.......... And the lighting of the trees....

Blue Monday..... And the lighting of the trees.......

Welcome to Blue Monday, hosted by my friend Sally, at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ This is a weekly post where some of us blogger's get together to share something blue. Thank you Sally for hosting this fun post! If you would like to join us, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Blue Monday web site.......


Have you heard the news? It's official now! Santa Claus has come to town!

This weekend Ryan and I had the opportunity to visit the Partridge Creek Mall to see the lighting of the trees ceremony. I have written about this quaint little out door dog friendly mall in the past so I won't go into further details here. The Partridge Creek mall has offered a Christmas program and lighting ceremony for the past three years. I just can't believe how many people and dogs turn out for this fun family event! Most of the dogs have blinking collars and leashes which look very pretty lit up at night. I did not bring Charli with me because of the large crowds of people who attend. I thought it was more important to keep my focus on Ryan. The parents, grandparents, and children usually meet near the outdoor fireplace to wait for the program to begin. Partridge Creek provides all glow wands for all of the children free of charge. You can just imagine how excited the children were to receive these. They held them up in the air as they listened to the wonderful Christmas music provided by the Detroit Opera Children's Choir. What a wonderful job the choir did! It was awesome to see all of the colorful wands swaying through the night air. Nordstroms provided free hot chocolate and the Cookie Factory a free cookie to all of the children who were there. Ryan and I opted to go to Starbucks instead and I am so glad we did because we avoided some very long lines. After the Choir was finished the children were told Santa would be arriving and to listen for the Piston Drum Corp to escort him into the mall area. There was total silence as the children waited and then cheers of delight as the drum corp came marching through the streets with you know who. After Santa arrived the children were told to hold up their wands, count to three, and then shout "light that tree." Then all of the lights came on. The Patridge Creek Mall has a display of over 300,000 lights and it is truly beautiful! This is where the blue comes in for my Blue Monday post. These pictures really do not do the light display justice. It's just amazing and so very beautiful! Ryan and I had a wonderful time and in the process we even got a little Christmas shopping done......

Happy Blue Monday everyone!

I hope all of you have a lovely day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Getting ready for the holidays....

Getting ready for the holidays........

Can you believe it? Christmas is right around the corner again. The holidays are so different these days. With a touch of a button you can go to so many wonderful sites on the Internet and order just about anything you want or need in order to have an amazing holiday celebration, but if you are like me, you still like to do a little of your own holiday cooking, baking, decorating, and crafting.....

Don't these goodies

look just yummy!....

I love the days leading up to the holiday's best of all. I like all of the family activities, holiday movies, crafts, visiting, baking, and trimming or decking of the halls. The most difficult thing for me to do is decorate our family Christmas tree. It makes me some what sad and happy all at the same time. It's really is a tree just filled with the most amazing memories of the people I love and people who have touched my life in a profound way. I feel so blessed to have known each and every one of them.

I found a wonderful site I thought you might enjoy http://www.northpole.com/

If you are looking for some great recipes or fun activities to do with your children or grandchildren I am sure you will be able to find something here.

I hope you are having a fun filled weekend ♥

Charli is even getting into the holiday spirit and helping me with a little decorating.

"CHARLI! Get out from under that tree!"

With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday hosted by Charli and Me. This is a post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. A post to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by! I hope you have a wonderful and blessed day ♥

"When you arise in the morning,

give thanks for the morning light,

for your life and strength,

Give thanks for your food,

and the joy of living.

If you see no reason for giving thanks,

the fault lies with yourself."

-Tecumseh Shawnee Chief-

"When I first open my eyes upon the morning meadows and look out upon the beautiful world. I thank God I am alive"

-Ralph Waldo Emerson-

Happy Hopeful Friday everyone!

As I won't be posting next Friday due to the holiday weekend, I would like to take

this opportunity to wish all of you who follow Hopeful Friday a beautiful and blessed Thanksgiving ♥
May the peace and love of our Lord be with you always ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Booking Through Thursday......

Welcome to Booking Through Thursday at http://btt2.wordpress.com/
This is a weekly post where book lovers such as myself get together to have informal discussions about literature and books. If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Booking Through Thursday web site........




Today's question was submitted by Barbara and is as follows.......
"Do you think any current author is of the same caliber as Dickens, Austin, Bronte, or any of the classical authors? If so, who, and why do you think so? What books from this era might be read one hundred years from now?"

Whew.... These are loaded questions but I will give it a try. Yes, I do think there are some wonderful authors of the same caliber as Dickens, Austin, and Bronte. Certainly they're books will withstand the test of time and be read one hundred years from now. These authors are brilliant, descriptive, and colorful. They have proven over time to be phenomenal writers. I think these authors will withstand time because they write from the heart about every day life, culture, and history. These are subjects that remain of interest to most people. These types of books give us a glimpse into family life, life in a certain time period, or sweep us away on a wonderful or daring adventure. Who doesn't love to read these types of books? Some authors that come to mind are William Faulkner, Ernest Hemingway, Mark Twain, Gabriel Garcia Marquez (a brilliant writer), Sharon Kay Penman, and of course John Steinbeck.
I think Doris Kerns Goodwin is an example of one of the greatest non-fiction writers of our time.
Some books will withstand time because of the popularity associated with them like the Harry Potter series and still other books will stand out as one time masterpieces such as 'The Road' and "To Kill A Mockingbird.'
Happy Booking through Thursday everyone!
I hope you have a wonderful day....
With warmest regards, Carol

Tea and friendship Tuesday's.....

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me. This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups, recipes, poems, personal stories, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. It is a place to share any thing you would like with a friend! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥


Good morning everyone! Today I thought I would share another Thanksgiving Day tradition with you. It is my dear Aunt Rosie's date and nut bread. It would be perfect on any tea table. It's so delicious!....


AUNT ROSIE'S DATE AND NUT BREAD
(A Thanksgiving day Tradition with whipped cinnamon butter)



In a bowl combine:
one cup boiling water
one tbsp butter
1/4 tesp nutmeg
1/2 tesp salt
one tesp baking soda
one cup chopped nuts
one cup chopped pitted dates

In another bowl combine:
one cup sugar
one egg
one tesp vanilla

In another bowl:
two cups flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease a regular sized bread pan.

Alternate adding dates and nut mixture,

and flour mixture, to sugar mixture.

Bake until golden brown and a tooth

pick comes out clean when inserted

into bread. Makes one loaf.

WHIPPED CINNAMON BUTTER

one stick of softenened butter

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1/4 tesp cinnamon

Whip all ingredients together in an electric mixer.

Let set in refrigerator for approxamately twenty minutes

For me It just wouldn't be Thanksgiving without Aunt Rosie's date and nut bread.

As I bake this bread and the wonderful

smells fill my kitchen I think of my dear sweet

Aunt Rose and all of the very best of

times I had at her house. Aunt Rose and

Uncle Al had eight wonderful, caring,

and respectful son's but no daughters.

You can just imagine how welcome,

special, loved, and cherished I felt in

they're home. My Aunt Rose always

used to say she thought of me as the

daughter she never had :>)

When I was dating my husband it was my Aunt Rose who called him up one Sunday afternoon to ask him if he could take her to a department store in the area.

She didn't really need someone to take her to the store but she did want a private time

with my hubby to ask him what his intentions were :>) My aunt was a person

with old fashioned values and I think that's what I loved most about her ♥

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday everyone!

I hope you have a wonderful day.

Thank you so much for all the lovely comments you leave on my posts ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

New guidelines for mamography via government regulated task force....

New guidelines for mammography via the government regulated task force?......

Do we really want the government controlling women's health care in this country? The government sponsored task force is recommending women now wait until the age of fifty to have routine mammogram screening. The American Cancer Society disagrees with the government task force recommendations and physicians will continue to offer they're own recommendations during routine physician visits. Who is going to pay for your next mammogram? What kind of outcomes can women expect if these new government imposed guidelines pass through congress? What are your thoughts on this very important issue?

http://www.medpagetoday.com/medpage_audio_player.cfm?tbid=17045&rURL

Blue Monday..........

Welcome to Blue Monday, hosted by my friend Sally, at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ A weekly post where some of us blogger's get together to share something blue. Thank you Sally for hosting this fun post! If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Blue Monday web site.....

There is certainly a lot of blue in this video and I do love the song.....

Happy Blue Monday everyone!

I hope you are having a lovely day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I62uwbyD2pUm/watch?v=I62uwbyD2pU?v=I62uwbyD2pU

1776 The Musical-The Egg....

1776 The Musical-The Egg.....

"Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams discuss with one another what the new nations bird will be. A Turkey, a Dove, or an Eagle?"......
Did you ever wonder who, and why it was decided that the Turkey would not be the national bird? Just click here and enjoy.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OAWKTDelGU

I hope you have a great weekend ♥
With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday! This is a post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. It is a place to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥




"Love begins at home; love lives in homes,
and that is why there is so much suffering and so much unhappiness in the world today. If we listen to Jesus, He will tell us what He said before: 'Love one another, as I have loved you.' He has loved us through suffering, dying on the cross for us, and so if we are to love one another, if we are to bring that love into life again, we have to begin at home"
-Mother Teresa-
'The Joy in Loving'


Happy Hopeful Friday everyone!
May the love and peace of our Lord be with you always ♥
With warmest regards, Carol

Dogs On Thursday.......

Welcome to Dogs On Thursday at http://dogsonthursday.blogspot.com/ A weekly post where dog lovers such as myself get together to talk and share stories about our most precious little four legged friends. If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Dogs On Thursday web site......

Good morning everyone! Charli and I hope you and your little furry friends have had a good week. Speaking of Charli, where is that dog!......

"I'm over here"

"Charli what are you doing?"

"I'm getting ready for Thanksgiving! Is it time to eat yet?"

"Charli Thanksgiving is more than about the food. It's a day to spend with family and friends. It's a day to count all of our blessings. Can you think of some of things your thankful for?"

"Well let's see..... I'm thankful I have people who love me ♥ And I'm thankful I live in a real house instead of a cold old dog house and no matter what I do I'm never ever spanked. I'm thankful I have food but I could do with a little less dog food and a little more people food."

"Charli"

"OK, OK, Oh, and I'm thankful for Sofie and Peeper."

"See Charli, you have a lot's of things to be thankful for."

"Well, There's one thing I'm really thankful for!"

"What's that?"

"I'm really, really, really thankful I'm not a TURKEY!

"Charli!!!"

Happy Dogs On Thursday everyone!

We hope you have you are having a beautiful fall day ♥

With warmest regards,

Veterans Day.....

VETERANS DAY.....


"It's easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you"
-Author unknown-



Some veterans gave everything.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lK2oVg3pS9Y



With the utmost respect and gratitude for all of those men and women who have died, served, and continue to serve our country.....
THANK YOU !....... GOD BLESS YOU!......WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU!.....

With warmest regards,

Tea and friendship Tuesday's....

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me. This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups, recipes, poems, personal stories, quotes, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. It is a place to share anything you would like with a friend! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥


"Friendship that flows from the heart cannot be frozen by adversity as the water that flows from the spring cannot congeal in the winter"
-James Fenimere Cooper-


Recently I received two lovely awards from two of my dear friends here in blog land that I would like to share with all of you. Both awards come with a meme.......

The first award was given to me by my dear sweet friend Marcy at http://blessingseachday.blogspot.com/ Isn't it adorable ♥ Thank you so much Marcy!
Well here we go........

IF YOU COULD COME BACK AS AN ANIMAL,WHICH WOULD IT BE?

This question was very easy for me. I would come back as a dog, and more specifically a little schnauzer named Charli. Although she doesn't think so some times, this little diva has it made.

WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN A PERSON
I value people with integrity, who are genuine, caring, and compassionate.

THE COLORS YOU WEAR MOST
Blue and black, although for some reason I have been wearing more red lately.

THREE WORDS THAT DEFINE YOU
I asked my hubby this one and he said compassionate, genuine, and caring.

A PLACE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO TRAVEL TO
I would like to travel to many different places like Italy, France, Germany, England, and Ireland but I wouldn't want to leave home to do it.

YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE FROM A BOOK OR A MOVIE
My favorite quote is not from a book, or a movie, but it is one that I say all of the time so I will post it instead.
"Life is what happens when your busy making plans."
-John Lennon-

SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO
I would like to write a book, open a day care center for the elderly, or open some sort of a lounge where people could meet in the morning to have coffee or tea, and discuss literature, politics, and an array of other interesting subjects. That way there wouldn't be so many lonely people in the world.

YOUR MAIN STRENGTH
I'm consistent in my ethics and values. I stand up for what I believe in and will not bend to be part of a crowd.

The next award comes from my dear and kind friend Anita at http://wwwcastlescrownscottages.blogspot.com/ Thank you so much Anita! Isn't this a lovely award ♥

In this meme we are supposed to name seven things that people may not know about us.

So here goes......

SEVEN THINGS ABOUT ME THAT YOU MAY KNOW

1. God is the center of my world.

2. My experiences as a nurse have taught me humility.

3. I treasure my friends and family with all of my heart.

4. I honestly don't know what color my hair is anymore. I just know it

couldn't possibly be gray.

5. I don't have a favorite holiday. I love and celebrate them all.

6. No matter how old I get I will probably never grow up.

7. I sing all of the time even though I can't. It drives my family crazy!

There you have it. Now it's your turn. Please except these precious awards from me. After you finish doing your memes remember to leave a comment here. I would love to get to know you better ♥

Sometimes in the fall my hubby and I like to set up a table by the fireplace, or in the living room surrounded by some of our books, to have lunch or dinner.

Here is an example of one of my tablescapes. Aren't those little roosters adorable? Anne gave them to me ♥ I just love them! There is one of the houses Ryan and I made together. I think it makes a rather whimsical and fun centerpiece. In the next picture I changed the center piece to one of my many turkey's. This one holds a tea light candle and looks very pretty all lit up in the evening. Now all I have to do is get a couple of glasses and we are all set. Maybe you would like to join us too.

I hope all of you are truly enjoying this beautiful and magical time of the year ♥

Thank you so much for your friendship and the lovely comments you leave on my posts!

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday's ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Blue Monday.......... And a Thanksgiving Day Tradition.....

Welcome to Blue Monday, hosted by my friend Sally, at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ This is a weekly post where some of us blogger's get together to share something blue. Thank you Sally for hosting this fun event! If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Blue Monday web site.........


Blue Monday.... And a Thanksgiving Day Tradition......

It all started when our granddaughter Jessica was just a little girl. I wanted something special to put on the table for Thanksgiving that would be fun and distinguish her seat from the rest of the family. I decided the perfect something to get would be a small chocolate turkey

wrapped in colorful foil from Morley's Candy Shop. As our

other grandchildren came along my hubby and I added another chocolate turkey to the mix. Our grandchildren always seemed

excited about these little turkeys, (grandma too), and they would automatically run to look for a place to sit that had a foil wrapped turkey sitting on the plate. Around Thanksgiving

every year they would start asking if my hubby and I had gotten the chocolate turkeys yet and through the years those

little chocolate turkeys have become a favorite Thanksgiving Day tradition.....
Today my hubby and I still go out to the Morley's Candy Shop to get the turkey's for Thanksgiving Day, only now in addition to our grandchildren, we have the pleasure of getting them for our great-grandchildren too. This is where the blue comes in. These pictures are from our most recent trip to Morley's....

Just look at all of that candy! Morley's is a wonderful place to visit. They make the candy right on site and they offer daily tours of the candy factory. For some reason though, they only allow cameras in the candy shop and not in the factory.

This year my hubby and I were a little disappointed to learn that Morley's will no longer be making the small foiled turkey's. They will still make a foiled turkey in the larger size but the smaller chocolate turkey's will be packaged differently.

This is what the turkey's used to look like

and below is what they are packaged to

look like today. I think they are still cute

but not as cute as the foiled ones.

Since Anne and Mike have graciously

invited our entire family to

Thanksgiving dinner

this year I have packed these

little turkey's up and they are ready

to go......

What are some of your Thanksgiving

traditions? I would love to hear from you.

Happy Blue Monday everyone!

I hope all of you are having a beautiful

fall day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Punch..... A delicious drink and fun beverage for any holiday....

Punch.... A delicious and fun beverage for any holiday......

I have always thought punch bowls were so beautiful! They come in so many different styles and shapes. Just like there contents, some are elegant, some are simple, and I'm sure if you looked hard enough you would find one or two punch bowls that are just plain silly. I have always liked the punch bowls made out of cut glass and crystal. They look so pretty on a table and especially in a candle lit room with the light bouncing off of them.

Just look at this punch bowl! You wouldn't believe how much money it costs! I could not imagine paying that much money for a punch bowl but I am sure some people do. I can envision it sitting in the dining room of an old and charming vintage estate. It is just gorgeous and especially when paired with those exquisite pedestal glasses. This one is a Waterford just in case anyone is interested......

When my children were little I had a very pretty punch bowl. I just loved it and especially since it was a gift from my mother. One day it accidentally got broken and I've always said that some day I would get another one. I used to like to make non-alcoholic, fun, and sometimes elegant punch for my children and family at Christmas, on birthdays, and other holidays. I always made the punch non-alcoholic so the children in our family could enjoy them too.

A couple of years ago our Anne purchased a punch bowl and since then all of our family parties have been even better because of the delicious and fun punches she makes. For Halloween she made a very delicious vampire punch that was just over the top. The kids loved it ♥ I made up my mind, right then and there, that it was time to get another punch bowl.....

Look at this punch! Our grandson's would

love something like this.

Any of these punches would look elegant on a table, whether for Christmas, a shower, or perhaps a special tea.

Here is another ghoulish delight. Look at that skull floating in the middle of that punch. How creative is that!

Below a beautiful summer punch. Wouldn't that taste good with some delicious tea cookies of some kind?

There used to be proper etiquette rules regarding punch, like not using ice cubes and making sure it contained five ingredients, but I don't think they apply today. I think today anything goes as long as it's pretty, delicious, and fun.

This is the punch bowl I recently purchased. It was relatively inexpensive and I know it is something I am going to enjoy. It actually comes in two pieces so it is very practical You can use the smaller flat bowl on the bottom for things like nuts or candy and the large bowl could be used for popcorn or chips at large gatherings when neither of the bowls are being used for punch.

I decided to make a Reindeer punch for Christmas because I always wear antlers at our family Christmas parties LOL Now there is something you didn't know about me! Would you believe there is actually a recipe for Reindeer punch on the Internet? I'm going to make antler's out of art foam for the back of the bowl, and then in the front I'm going to make eyes and a red nose. Where the two bowls meet I'm going to add garland and a bow. Maybe I will even make some antlers for Charli. Wouldn't she look cute?

As I was thinking about how to put the raindeer together I remembered I had a small battery operated light that I purchased for one of my pumpkins on Halloween. It's called a holiday tea light and it changes colors. Look what happened when I added it to the bottom of the punch bowl!

Is that not neat or what! It's almost like having a Christmas tree sitting right in the middle of my punch bowl. I think it's going to look very festive on our table. I can't wait to show it to Ryan and Aayden!

Do you like to serve punch at your family parties? If so, what kind of punch do you serve? I look forward to hearing from you.

Ho, Ho, Ho! I can't believe Christmas is right around the corner.

I hope you are having a nice day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Making Crafts With Ryan.....

Making Crafts with Ryan......

I have never been a very talented or fancy craft er like some of you are blessed to be but I have always enjoyed making folk art type holiday and seasonal crafts with my children and grandchildren. Last summer Ryan and I decided to paint a bird house and we had so much fun that we decided to make them for all of the holidays this year. These are the bird houses we made for Thanksgiving. They are relatively inexpensive to make. All you need is a bird house, some water soluble paint, a package of art foam, and a few trinkets associated with the holiday or season. We don't even glue the trinkets on because Ryan has fun playing with them and moving them around. I think these little bird houses make rather festive holiday decorations don't you? We purchased all of our supplies at Michael's. The best part about these bird houses is that Ryan and I made them together ♥ There were lots of smiles, giggles, and hugs going on in my kitchen that day.

If your looking for a craft to do with your children or grandchildren this really was a lot of fun to do. Now wouldn't these little birdhouses look cute sitting on a Thanksgiving table?

I hope all of you are having a lovely fall weekend ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday. A post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. A post to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you very much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

"Today, more than ever, we need

to pray

for the light to know the will of God...

for the love to accept the will of God...

for the way to do the will of God"

-Mother Theresa-

'Let's pray together' for the victims and families of senseless acts of violence like those that occurred at Fort Hood yesterday and that occur daily in our families, communities, and our world....

"Lord I need something. My soul is open to the attacks of the enemy, of my own flesh, of the world. I need the Word. Give me your Word today."

-Mother Angelica"s Little Book of Life Lessons and Everyday Spirituality-

Peace be with all of you ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

The Month of November and Thanksgiving......

The Month of November and Thanksgiving........

The month of November has always been a very special time for me and my family. It's a time to reflect on all of the things we are so grateful and thankful for. It's a time to look back on all of our blessings......

November is also a very busy time with lot's and lot's of fun things to do. I've finished some of my baking and I have most of my Christmas shopping done. Tomorrow I will be making crafts with our precious grandson Ryan. The only one who seems to be disgruntled is Charli who hasn't been getting her usual amount of attention. The Halloween decorations are down and the Thanksgiving decorations are up. I thought you might like to see some of the decorations I've collected through the years......

"Give me the end of the year an' its fun

When most of the plannin' an' toilin' is done;

Bring all the wanderers home to the nest,

Let me sit down with the ones I love best,

Hear the old voices still ringin' with song,

See the old faces unblemished by wrong,

See the old table with all of its chairs

An' I'll put soul in my Thanksgiving Prayers."

-Edgar A. Guest, Thanksgiving-

The following are some of the pictures of the 'Tombstone' tea that my sister and I recently attended at the historical village here in our area. Doesn't everything look festive? We really had a wonderful time.......

Happy November everyone!

I hope all of you had a

wonderful Halloween ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Booking Through Thursday......

Welcome to Booking Through Thursday at http://btt2.wordpress.com/ This is a weekly post where book lovers like myself get together to have informal discussions about literature and books. If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Booking Through Thursday web site.......

This week our questions are as follows.....

"Which do you prefer? Biographies written about someone? Or autobiographies written by the actual person (and/or ghost-writer)?"

I would have to say I like both biographies and autobiographies equally as well as long as it's not some he says/she says tell all type of book. I would be more interested in reading a book about someone who has done something of value with his or her life or has gone down in history because of being caught up in certain events. I would want the book to contain an index, as well as source notes, and a bibliography to support what has been written.

Happy Booking Through Thursday everyone!.....

I hope you are having a beautiful day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Just a little break........

Hello everyone! Just a note to let you know I will be taking a little break but I will be back in a week or so. I need a little time to run some errands, catch up with friends, catch up on my e-mail and comments, and get ready for the up coming holidays. I will miss all of you and I will be thinking of you.

Love and blessings ♥

My warmest regards, Carol

Happy All Hallows Eve!.......

HAPPY ALL HALLOWS EVE EVERYONE!

We hope all of you have a safe and fun filled holiday ♥

Charli and her friends are having a costume parade over at Dogs-N-More http://dogs-n-more.blogspot.com/ What fun! I hope you will take the time to stop by and see all of these sweet little pooches in they're fabulous costume's. All of them are so cute! It's sure to give you a giggle or two......

We hope your day is

spooky and fun

in every way!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

With warmest regards,

Carol and Charli

These boots are made for walking.......

Welcome to 'These boots are made for walking' It's a blog party hosted by my dear friend Deb, at http://ladybugfromtexas.blogspot.com/

"Show us your favorite fall boots....working....dress...rain...snow..doesn't matter. Then tell us a little bit about them....The one thing I do like about fall and winter....is boots. Lets go boots!"

Now doesn't that sound like fun! There is still time to participate so pick up a button, grab your boots, and come join us! Just click on the link above and "Show us your boots!"



When I was a little girl I once got a pair of cow girl boots Christmas. I not only got the boots, but I got the whole outfit! I'm not kidding... All I needed was the horse and I would have been able to ride off into the sunset! I loved those boots ♥ I wore them all the time until they eventually wore out. I thought they were just the coolest things. I especially liked the heel, and that clump, clump, clump sound they made when I walked. I felt so tall and so suave in those boots. I've always wanted another pair......

I've never owned a pair of red boots, in fact, for years I never owned anything red. It was never my favorite color. I always went for the more muted tones. However, the oddest thing has happened since I've gotten older. I have noticed that I am using more red to decorate my home and I am also adding more red to my wardrobe. I even bought my very first tube of red lipstick recently and a bottle of red nail polish to match. I'm thinking that maybe I should get a pair of red boots too. What do you think girls? Do you think it's fashionable for grannies like me to wear red boots?

Aren't these black boots something? I really like the style of these. I think they look very sophisticated. I could definitely see myself wearing a pair...

In my 20's, and 30's, I owned a pair of boots similar to these and I just loved them. My boots were brown and I wore them with the gaucho pants that were popular at the time and also with long skirts. However, being a nurse who wore uniforms on a regular basis, and working every other weekend for most of my career, didn't leave me much of an opportunity to wear them. When my grandchildren came into the picture, and we went on outings, it was just easier to wear a more practical shoe. Eventually I packed up my boots, as well as, most of my high heeled shoes and donated them to charity. I wish I had those boots today because I would definitely think about wearing them again...

Some of you may want to know if Charli wears boots. Well, our little Diva will not go out in the snow. Oh no, it's a real problem for all of us! She will not leave the garage unless the entire drive way is shoveled and she will not do her business unless a patch of grass has been shoveled as well. This little pooch will hold her bladder for twelve hours if she has to. Everything has to be just so-so in her little world. When we do get her to go out she runs back to the door as fast as her little legs will carry her. She is definitely not a winter time pooch at all so no need for boots here......

These are my very stylish (just kidding) and old "ducky" boots. Aren't they pathetic? I have had them for over twenty years and only wear them when absolutely necessary. I'm usually hopping from house, to car, and back so I haven't had any real need to wear them much. I guess I'm not much of a winter out door girl either. I think I'll just spiff them up for another year, or maybe, with all of this talk about boots I should think about getting myself a new pair......

I do have a little secret to share with you though.... Shh...... Please don't tell anyone......

These are the boots I wear the most these days. If I have to go out to do a quick shovel I just slip on my hubby's boots. I think they are perfect for the job, although, they are a little difficult to walk in. I like them because they are warm, very easy to get on, and come up higher on my leg than my own boots do. I'm sure my neighbors think I'm a hoot, but what the heck, I'm a senior now. Aren't I allowed to be a little eccentric? :>)

Well, that's it for my boots. I can't wait to see yours!

I hope all of you have a lovely day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday. A post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. A post to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

'Be a Transformer'

" We're all assigned a piece of garden, a corner of the universe that is ours to transform. Our corner of the universe is our own life-our relationships, our homes, our work, our current circumstances-

exactly how they are. Every situation we find ourselves in is an opportunity, perfectly planned by the Holy spirit, to teach us love instead of fear."

-Marianne Williamson-

in A Return to Love

Happy Hopeful Friday everyone!...

Peace be with all of you ♥

I hope you have a lovely day ♥

Thank you so much for all the lovely comments you leave on my posts!....

With warmest regards, Carol

Booking Through Thursday......

Welcome to Booking Through Thursday, at http://btt2.wordpress.com/ A weekly post where book lovers like myself get together to have informal discussions about books and literature. If you would like to join us, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Booking Through Thursday web site.........

This week our questions are as follows......

"Suggested by Jennysboots:

Something I've been thinking about lately: "What words/phrases in a blurb make a book irresistible? What words/phases will make you put the book back down immediately?"

1. Words or phrases that make a book irresistible would include, but are certainly not limited to......

Classic, deeply affecting, hilarious, sensational, inspiring, light, vibrant, impelling, provocative, historical, fascinating, spiritual, emotional, entertaining, true, passionate, romantic, bewitching, powerful, surprising, witty, and dramatic.

2. Words or phrases that will make be put a book down immediately would include, but are certainly not limited to......

Sporty, modern, pornographic, seedy, deadly, hard core, unstable, dark, bitter, lifeless, science fiction, paranormal, chilling, horrifying, bland, and thriller.

Happy Booking Through Thursday everyone!......

I hope all of you have a beautiful day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

R.I.P. IV.....

R.I.P. IV.........
It's that time of year again!.....
For the past four years Carl V, at http://www.stainlesssteeldroppings.com/?p=1132 has been hosting an eerie reading challenge on his blog in the fall. The rules are simple. All you have to do is choose one, or several books to read in the mystery, suspense, thriller, Gothic, horror, or supernatural category, link up, and then write a book review. All of the details can be found by clicking the above link......





I choose the 'Peril The Third' challenge which means I had from September first through October thirty first to read one scary, creepy, or spell binding book........

The book I choose was 'In For The Kill' written by John Lutz. It is in the thriller category. The story is about a serial killer who is on the loose in New York City. The killer has heard about Frank Quinn, a now retired serial killer specialist, who is renowned for his ability to solve difficult cases. Quinn is a divorcee, living alone, and somewhat bored. He is convinced to come out of retirement to solve the case. He calls in the team of investigators he used to work with and a cat and mouse, or chess game ensues. It is discovered that each of the women being killed has a last name beginning with a sequence of letters in Quinn's last name. Once that part of the puzzle is solved everyone frantically tries to find the next victim before the serial killer does. Eventually Quinn's own daughter becomes involved and is almost murdered as well. During the course of trying to solve the murders Quinn learns the psychological profile of the killer. Questions are answered as to why the killer became the madman depicted in the story. What had provoked him? What were the horrific things he was exposed to as a child that could potentially cause a snap in his psychic like the one seen here. Lutz throws in some surprises in the end, and a few twist and turns here and there throughout the book. Lutz points out the venerability of women and how easily the serial killer was able to infiltrate they're lives. The book was very graphic in it's details and I found it to be quite disturbing. It is definitely not a book for the faint hearted. I know these types of books are enjoyable for many people, but for me, they are just to intense. I'm glad I read the book, because as many of you know, I do like to read out of my comfort zone every now and then. I think for now, at least, I will stick to a good old historical novel. However, I would definitely like to participate in R.I.P. again next year.

Happy R.I.P. everyone!

I look forward to reading your reviews.

With warmest regards, Carol

Tea and friendship Tuesday's.........

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me. This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups, recipes, poems, personal stories, quotes, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. It is a place to share anything you would like with a friend! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart, and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words." -Donna Roberts-

Recently my hubby, Charli, and I were invited to lunch at my beloved brother and sister-in-laws in Ann Arbor. They also invited my dear cousin's, Pam and Bob. We had such a wonderful afternoon! To me there is nothing quite as grand as being able to spend time with family and friends. My brother and sister-in-law went all out as usually to make sure all of us had a fabulous time. The conversation was lively, as we had discussions about art, politics, health care, and religion. I have always loved these stimulating types of conversations.

The food was excellent as usual! We had the most delicious Greek salad with feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, and a olive oil and lemon dressing. It also included hard crusted bread with oil and herbs for dipping. While we ate we sipped a delicious robust and fruity red wine. For the main course we had Mukasa which my sister-in-law makes just for me because she knows how much I love it. Of course I had second helpings. It was so yummy! Then we had a apple crisp pie with ice cream. Going to my brother and sister-in-laws has always been the ultimate dinning experience for me. Thank you so much Paul and Rox!

I thought you might enjoy a peak at they're beautiful tablescape. Isn't it lovely? ♥ We had so much fun!

While we were there my cousin Pam gave me the most beautiful gift! I have mentioned here before that she spins her own threads and has taught classes in the art of spinning in the past. Pam sent to Belgium for flax and spun it into the most lovely linen thread. Then she crocheted a gorgeous Doilie especially for my tea tray!

Just look at the intricate work and detail. Isn't it beautiful! I will treasure it forever. Thank you so much Pam!


Doesn't it look lovely on my tea tray?







I just love the lacy look and lovely design. It's so pretty! I can't believe it's mine ♥

What a beautiful lunch with people I love and such an exquisite gift..... Am I spoiled or what?.....

I have one last thing to share with all of you. My dear friend Marcy, at http://blessingseachday.blogspot.com/ has tagged me with a meme. If you haven't stopped by Marcy's I hope you will take the time to do so. She writes the most inspiring posts. She is very creative and funny. You will find yourself giggling a lot as you read her fabulous posts. Marcy is very warm and friendly and I feel incredibly blessed to have found her in this vast blog land of ours.
Here goes......
1. Six names you go by:
Carol
Cokie
Coke
Mom
Grandma
Sis
(And sometimes Lucy)

2. Three things you are wearing right now:
A white sweater
Flowered pajama bottoms
Socks (And one gray Schnauzer who seems to be glued to my lap.)

3. Three things you want badly at the moment (Aside from world peace and to have your children go to church):
First and foremost, I pray that all families can reunite and suffering will end in our world.
On a lighter note, I sure would love some cookies to go with my coffee.
It would really be great if I could snap my fingers and all of my chores would be done so I could spend the day blogging, playing with Charli, and visiting with my friends.

4. Three things you did last night/yesterday:
I went out to dinner with my hubby
I went out with some friends during the day.
I wrapped a shower gift for my niece who is having a baby shower this Sunday.

5. Two things you ate today:
I haven't ate anything yet because it's to early in the morning. If I had those cookies I want badly I would eat quite a few of those but I probably will settle for a bagel.

6. Two people you last talked to on the phone:
My brother Paul
My daughter Anne

7. Two things you are going to do today/tomorrow:
I'm taking Charli to the groomers which means I get my chores done in peace. ( No little hooligan chasing the mop, vacuum cleaner, or dust cloth but I will miss her desperately as always. )
Tomorrow I will be going to my humanities group where we will have a speaker and power point presentation on Islam.

8. Your three favorite beverages:
Coffee
Tea
Water with lemon ( I'm forcing myself to make this my favorite drink because I usually don't like water)

I am now supposed to pass this meme on to five other blogger's but in the spirit of friendship I am offering it to all of you. I hope you will consider doing it. Please pick up a button. It's fun! I would love to hear from all of you ♥

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday everyone!......
Many blessings to all of you on this beautiful fall morning ♥
With warmest regards, Carol

Blue Monday.......... And some Halloween fun!.....

Welcome to Blue Monday, hosted by my friend Sally, at http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/ This is a weekly post where some of us blogger's get together to share something blue. Thank you Sally for hosting this fun event! If you would like to join our group, or you would like more information about us, just click on the above link to reach the official Blue Monday web site......
Good morning everyone! It seems that I am running into a little difficulty finding something blue to post and especially this time of year when everything is sooo black, orange, and brown.

This past weekend we had a family get together and one of the things I served was a vegetable tray. Look closely.... Do you see that creepy spider crawling on my vegetables? Well, he has a very scary bluish-green ring on his eerie little body. Does that count?.......



How about some cookies? I know they aren't blue but they are good........

This is a great gift I received recently. I love the witches brew label? I think I will keep it and set it out every year. Do you think witches brew ages in the same way fine wines do?

Halloween slippers are fun but where is the blue?

I love to make cinnamon sugar almonds around Halloween and Christmas. Yummy! They are so good! Here they are sitting in a pumpkin patch.

Well, what have we here? It's Sofie all dressed up in her Tinker bell costume! Doesn't she look pretty? Charli just loves it when Sofie and Peeper come over as long as they don't forget who's the boss. Sofie and Peeper follow Charli where ever she goes. They are so cute together. And what a pack of little moochers they are!

A fun condiment tray for a October evening.

This is my Halloween spatula. Scary huh? I use a crepe ladle for cupcakes. They turn out the perfect size every time.

My mom's 'Happy Face' cupcakes. A simple Halloween tradition, but oh so meaningful! My mom made these silly little cup cakes for all of our Halloween school parties and we always had them after trick-o-treating on Halloween. Every year I made them for my children and grandchildren. It just wouldn't be Halloween without them.

And I added some blue eyes especially for Blue Monday! LOL

Since Halloween will be over the next time we get together for a Blue Monday post I have left you with a video of the witch that resides in our house. I must warn you though that she is quite the character and can be very scary indeed!....

HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!.....

Happy Blue Monday!......

I hope you have a wonderful day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

October......

"Listen! The wind is rising,
and the air is wild with leaves,
We have had our summer evenings,
now for October eves!"
-Humbert Wolfe-

"O autumn, laden with fruit,

and stained with the blood of the grape,

pass not, but sit beneath my shady roof;

there thou may'st rest,

And tune they jolly voice to my fresh pipe;

And all the daughters of the year shall dance!

Sing now the lusty song of fruit and flowers."

-William Blake-

To Autumn 1783

I hope you enjoyed the pictures of our recent apple picking excursion with our precious grandson Ryan......

Blessings to all of you on this beautiful autumn morning!.....

With warmest regards, Carol

Hopeful Friday.......

Welcome to Hopeful Friday! A post dedicated to positive thoughts and inspirational messages. This is a post to celebrate God! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥



"I always say I am a little pencil in God's hands. He does the thinking. He does the writing. He does everything and sometimes it is really hard because it is a broken pencil and He has to sharpen it a little more. Be a little instrument in His hands so that He can use you any time, any where. We have only to say 'yes' to God."
-Mother Theresa-
The Joy of Loving

Happy Hopeful Friday everyone!......
Peace be with you ♥
I hope all of you have a beautiful weekend...
Thank you so much for all of the lovely comments you leave on my blog!.....
With warmest regards, Carol

Presenting Pincess Charli........

Presenting Princess Charli........

'The Little Black Dress' Fashion Show.....

Welcome to 'The Little Black Dress' fashion show hosted by Charli and Me. As I explained in a previous post, the inspiration for my fashion show came from a 'Little Black dress' fashion show that I recently was fortunate enough to attend at a local Historical Museum and Village right here in Michigan. The museum and village fashion show was hosted by Rebecca L'Ecuyer, who is a collector of vintage clothing. She not only showed us beautiful black dresses and accessories from different time periods but she also shared the wonderful and interesting stories behind the dresses. It was a fabuous fashion show and so much fun! As I looked at the models in these beautiful dresses and heard the stories about them I couldn't help thinking about my own 'Little Black Dress' that has been tucked away in the back of my closet for years. I enjoyed the fashion show so much that I thought it would be fun to have one right here in blogland........

In 1926 Coco Chanel introduced the first black dress into the world of fashion and it created quite a stir. Prior to that time women did not where black unless it was to attend a funeral or they were in mourning. When Coco Chanel introduced the black dress Women went wild and clamored to have them. The 'little black dress' has remained a constant in the fashion world ever since.

Every 'Little Black Dress' has a story. Come show us your dress and share your story with us. All of the information about the fashion show is listed on my sidebar. It's not to late. Just leave a comment here so my dear friends and I can pop over for a visit. I would love to hear from you.........


I purchased my own 'little black dress' in the fall of 1992. At the time I was working full time and in school at Oakland. I was extremely busy as I am sure all of you can appreciate. I have never been a fahionista and I have never owned many dresses, black or otherwise, but one of our son's was getting married the first of the year and so it was imparitive that I find a formal dress. The pressure was on. I had just started looking, and I really had no idea what I was doing, or where to begin. I happened to be walking through Hudson's Department Store one afternoon and there at the end of the hall, in the women's section, hanging on a rack, was the most beautiful black dress I had ever seen! It was very simplistic. It was actually quite plain, yet feminine and elegant. I immediately fell in love with it. The dress was tea length and the designer was Carole Little. I think I liked the dress so much because it was styled a little different from most other dresses I had seen. I loved the bow, the long waist, the length, and also the flowing, flimzy, sheer, and delicate material it was made of. I thought it was so lovely and classy! I wasn't thinking about if the dress was right for the wedding, or if I would ever get to wear it any where, I just knew if I had to buy a dress that was the one I wanted. I decided I would try it on thinking they probably wouldn't have it my size any way, and even if they did, I would look terrible in it, but they did have my size, it fit perfectly, and I felt luxurious in it. The pictures you will see shortly do not do the dress justice. I really wanted to model it for you but let's just say I've changed a little since then :>) The day I found my dress was truly a lucky one for me. I also found the perfect black slip, black shoes, earrings, and even a darling little purse to go with it. I remember thinking to myself, thank goodness that's over with! Then I took all of my purchases home and tucked them away in my closet..........


Here is my dress! As you can see the pictures didn't turn out very well. Can you see the bow and the long waist on the dress?

Well, Christmas came and went. The wedding invitations went out and my family and friends starting inquiring about my dress for the wedding. When I told them it was black I recieved some mixed responses. Two weeks before the wedding my sister came over and asked to see my dress. I tried it on, and although she loved it, she asked me if I was sure I wanted to wear a black dress to my son's wedding. I admit that I hadn't thought to much about it. To make a long story short, my sister and I went to a bridal shop in the area to see if I could find another dress in a different color. There I found the following dress. It was full length so I had to have it shortened to tea length. Then I had to find shoes and have them dyed to match the dress. It all worked out in the end, because as some of you know, blue is my favorite color, but as my hubby and I walked hand and hand into the reception hall, I couldn't help thinking for a moment about my 'little black dress' hanging back home in my closet.......

I love sparkly bling type jewelry. Costrume jewelry can be a lot of fun, because as you know, you can get a lot of bling for your buck :>)

I hope you have enjoyed seeing my 'little black dress' and hearing my story. Although I don't think I will ever wear my black dress again, I did wear it to several other weddings, I just can't bare to part with it. If I ever do decide to part with it, I think I will give it to Rebecca L'Ecuyer so it can become part of her 'Little Black Dress' fashion show.......

Please stop over and visit some my other dear blogger friends who are participating in the fashion show. They can be reached by clicking the following links.....

http://fiberdoodlesandwhimsy.blogspot.com/

http://sunshineshangout.blogspot.com/
http://www.ummasworld.com/

http://queenmothermamaw.blogspot.com/

http://houseinroses.blogspot.com/

http://ladybugfromtexas.blogspot.com/

Thanks you so much to all of you who decided to participate in the fashion show. I can't wait to see all of your pretty dresses and hear your wonderful stories...

With warmest regards, Carol

Tea and friendship Tuesday's.........

Welcome to Tea and friendship Tuesday's hosted by Charli and Me. This is a fun post that can be filled with pretty tablescapes, teapots, teacups, recipes, poems, personal stories, quotes, and interesting facts related to tea, friendship, or both. It is a post to share anything you would like with a friend! If you would like to join me, just pick up a button, write your post, and then leave a comment here so my friends and I can pop over for a visit. Otherwise, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you enjoy your time here.........

"Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold."

-Girl Scout Song-

"Family traditions are the glue that binds one generation to another"

One of my sister-in-laws and I were talking one day about family traditions. She said that every Halloween while her son's were growing up they had pizza and brownies for dinner. A simple tradition but one that is so delicious! Guess where her son's gather with they're families every Halloween? You guess it and I bet some day my nephews will start that same tradition in they're own homes with they're children and grandchildren.

One of our family traditions is to make Spicy pumpkin seeds at Halloween. We have been making them for years. It's a recipe that is very tasty and easy to make......

Spicy Pumpkin Seeds (A Martha Stewart Recipe)

1 medium pumpkin

5 tablespoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Pinch of cayenne pepper, to taste

1/12 tablespoons peanut oil

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut pumpkin open, removing seeds with a long handled spoon. Carve a Jack-O-Lantern from the pumpkin. Separate the pumpkin flesh from the seeds. The pumpkin should yield one cup of seeds. Spread seeds on parchment paper in an even layer. Bake until dry, stirring occasionally, about one hour. Let cool.

In a medium bowl combine 3 tablespoons sugar, salt, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne. I do use a pinch more of the spices than the recipe calls for so the spices are more prominent than the sugar. Heat peanut oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook until the sugar melts and the pumpkin seeds begin to caramelize, about 45 to 60 seconds. Transfer to the bowl of spices, and stir well to coat.

Let cool. These may be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Brownies and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds are delicious and would be nice to serve on any Halloween tea table.

Happy Tea and friendship Tuesday everyone!

Thank you for all of the lovely comments you leave on my posts ♥

I hope all of you have a beautiful and blessed day ♥

With warmest regards, Carol

A Halloween Blog Party!.......

Welcome to a 'Halloween Blog Party' hosted by Sharon, at Fiberdoodles http://fiberdoodlesandwhimsy.blogspot.com/

The blog party starts today and runs for thirteen days until Halloween so there is still plenty of time to join in the fun! You can post anything you want from decorating, to recipes, quilts, or even the history of Halloween. It's all up to you. I hope all of you will decide to participate and make this a truly spooktacular event!......

BOO!!!!.......

Here at Charli and Me we are all ready for Halloween! The Jack-O-Lanterns are lit and the haunted houses are up. What is that eerie sound? Is it coming from those creepy looking houses? The lights are all off and it's truly spooky all around our house!..........

We don't go trick-or-treating any more, and do very little decorating outside, but Charli, and our home is decked out and ready for our up coming Halloween family celebrations. Charli has her costume all picked out and will be showing it to all of you later this week...... Humm..... I wonder what she is going to be?......

As you can see our blog is all decked out for this spooky holiday too. Come on in..... I hope enjoy your time here. Please take a look around and listen to some of the fall and Halloween music we picked out especially for you......

Pumpkins, witches, and bats!

Oh my!..........



This is my absolute favorite scary old witch! When anyone walks past her she shakes all over, screams 'Happy Halloween' in a very eerie tone of voice, and her eyes light up and flash in a spectacular shade of green. Why I do believe it matches her old wrinkled skin! Yikes! She has a built in motion detector and usually screams when no one is expecting her to. This old witch scares the Hebe gee bee's out of everyone...... LOL... She is so much fun!

The tables are set for our family Halloween get together. Maybe I will make some black cat cookies, spicy pumpkin seeds, truffles, or bread. One thing I will be making for sure is my mom's happy face cupcakes. We have had them every year for as far back as I can remember except last year when my hubby was so sick. Oops, I have to remember to blow up the pumpkin for the pumpkin toss game. The pumpkin toss game is just one of the fun events at our family parties.......

Wow!.... Look at that witch!..... Very scary indeed!.....

For as long as I can remember October has been my favorite month of the year. I like everything about the month of October, and the season Autumn, but one of my favorite things is the silly old Jack-O-Lanterns that can be seen just about every where. I do tend to go a little overboard because from the beginning of October until the end of the month I have Jack-O-Lanterns lit up all over my home in much the same way people do Christmas trees in the month of December......

Did you know that the Jack-O-Lantern is an Irish tradition that started centuries ago? As early as the eighteenth century the Jack-O-Lantern has been mentioned in European literature. The legend is, "the name Jack-O-Lantern originally meant a man with a lantern. Irish legend tells how a farmer named Jack tricked the devil into a series of adventures and eventually into sparing his life. When Jack finally died, God would not let the tricky man into heaven and the devil didn't want him in hell. Because Jack was not allowed in heaven or hell, his spirit was forced to wander the earth with a burning ember straight from the fires of hell, held within a carved turnip. Jack supposedly used this unusual lantern to light his way as he roamed the land."

The Irish peasants originally carved lanterns out of potatoes, turnips, beets, and gourds. The earlier lanterns did not have faces but it was thought that they kept evil spirits away. Much later people began to crave scary faces in the vegetables to keep the spirits at bay. Because it was felt that Jack, and other evil spirits were strongest and lurking about on All Hallows Eve, the lanterns eventually became associated with this day. Eventually All Hallows Eve became known as Halloween. When the Irish immigrants came to America during the potato famine they used pumpkins as Jack-O-Lanterns because they were so abundant at that time of year.

In our family we don't light Jack-O-Lanterns to keep evil spirits away, but rather, because we think they are quite festive, silly, and happy little fellows.........

For our family the month of October is very busy with trips to cider mills, apple picking, baking pies, family get together's and celebrations.What about you ? Do you celebrate the month of October and Halloween? If so, what are some of the things you like do? Do you have family traditions associated with this time of year? I would love to hear from you.......

Happy Halloween Blog Party everyone!

Don't forget to stop over at Fiberdoodles to see all of the other parties going on here in blog land.....

And remember it's never to late to start a new family tradition!......

With warmest regards, Carol