A Primitive Plot

Check this out....

2012-02-11T22:58:00.002-05:00

Easy-Peasey to edit photos....go here. Of course I heard about it from a blogger! That's where I get most of my news.

At the grocery.....

2012-02-10T16:54:00.003-05:00

I guess we wish this was a recent picture. He is smiling so he must have been making money....

Lots of coconut things are coming out. We don't get new products that soon so you may have tried this already.

Last night on the news there was a feature on Keurig cups, the kind you buy that are filled with coffee. The criticism is that they are not recyclable, because foil and paper are combined inside.

I like Columbian coffee so I have always used the make-it-yourself pods that came with the machine, but I found these new ones at Meijers, which I like better and use a paper filter which is a lot less clean-up. If you use these machines you will understand what I mean. The paper filter with the coffee can just be tossed in the garden. The plastic EZ Cup is $12.99 and the paper filters are 4.99 for 50. Even with buying the filters and your own ground coffee it is cheaper than the Keurig cups, which can't be recycled. Just a thought.

My Keurig is right up there on my list of favorites with my computer and camera and all of you.

Pillow

2012-02-09T09:10:00.004-05:00

Things are good. In Springfield, Mark had surgery on his arm and is doing well and V had a birthday with flowers by Kynda and lemon cake . Here at home in Michigan, Rosie and Joy are coming to visit me this weekend, and this is a pillow that PJ will take to her friend.

Just little things today but they are the best kind. Happy Thursday.

2012-02-07T09:35:00.002-05:00

Everyone has their own reason for liking pinterest. I haven't heard any negatives except it steals away your life.

I like it for keeping groups of similar interests together and those are there for a quick reference. Lately I have been going through some old photos that I have trouble keeping track of, so I decided it would be a good place to put those as well. So I will be boring you with some of those from time to time.

My home town, Paducah, Kentucky has a Paducah Memories page on Facebook and perhaps your hometown might have one too. Old and new pictures and reminiscenses are fun ; I even ran across a post by my SIL, Mark. You may find some old friends on your hometown page if there is one.....or you could start one yourself!

I promise though, only a few of these. Happy Tuesday. John Michael and I are watching Elmo today!

Detroit pics.....

2012-02-05T20:32:00.002-05:00

I just turned off the football game because when I watch, our family's team seems to lose. I liked Mr. Eastwood's commercial for Dodge and Detroit.

The second picture is the Woodward promise, hope you can read it.

Today I learned that footballs are made in the USA in Ada, Ohio. There are 120 footballs used in the Superbowl. Well, maybe I'll just turn it back on for one minute.

Something finished....

2012-02-04T15:51:00.002-05:00

I need to sew before I forget how. I finished something today for The Farm (which will be open soon!). It is good to have something I made to post.

I seem to have a problem with Newport cigarette ad comments. If anyone has a suggestion, I would appreciate it. Most of those kinds of things don't come through on my comments but this one seems to be persistent. And cigarettes are not my blogger friend.

Happy Saturday everyone.

Valentine surprise.....

2012-02-03T10:31:00.002-05:00

Your day is perfect when Linda sends you a surprise in the mail. Things are awfully sweet that come from Parker's Paradise! Thank you so much Linda for thinking of me!

Happy Friday everyone ! Be so thankful for good friends.

Lavender...

2012-02-02T13:48:00.002-05:00

Loading pictures is not to be this morning, so here are just a few. PJ and Jeff had discovered Lafayette Greens next to a great coney island downtown. I guess these would be solar potting sheds. They weren't open, but the garden was and we could explore their raised beds of plants.

I have never had lavender that didn't go everywhere and get woody but I really liked this one. They may have trimmed it earlier.

We saw the Rembrandt Face of Jesus exhibit at the Institute of Arts. No pictures of course but I was so happy to get to go, so thank you PJ and Jeff. It was realllly crowded and that's a good thing. Maybe tomorrow, blogger will let me load pictures.

99 Years Young!

2012-01-28T21:56:00.002-05:00

Girl, you are looking really good!!!!!

Are you doing any craft shows Barb? I can't wait for the shows to start!

Aiden made a card for GG Stella .

OOOOHHHHH CAKE! (and was it EVER good!).

Jackie, Barb, Stella and I have been craft showing together for a very long time. Stella makes the most beautiful afghans, keeps Jackie running to Joann Fabrics for yarn. We loved her party today.

Betsy is 4!

2012-01-27T10:39:00.004-05:00

This is her surprise! I would love to be there when she opens her eyes!!! Her Mom and Dad know just what a princess needs. Happy Birthday Betsy.

Bright's Passage by Josh Ritter

2012-01-25T20:55:00.003-05:00

I haven't been a fan of Josh Ritter's music and television but I am now a fan of his writing.
I could never write a review but I can tell you that I liked the story that goes every which way and comes together just perfectly.

I also like short chapters and writing that puts indelible pictures in my mind, better than tv or movies. And I like good endings. It's also a little bit odd, but I think I like odd.

Happy last Wednesday in January. Where has the time gone?

Popcorn Christmas Garland....

2012-01-13T17:26:00.003-05:00

Aha! I have it, Barb came through for all you who asked for the directions for the crocheted popcorn Christmas garland!

So get your needle out and you will have one made for next Christmas, while it is snowing outside.

POPCORN CHRISTMAS GARLAND

50 12 mm faceted beads or round beads (mine are wood, which I like).

6 oz Bernat Baby Coordinates (white)

G crochet hook

4 or 5 crochet hook (one that fits through the bead).

String beads on yarn. Make 5 popcorns. start with chain 4. After the 5th popcorn, make loop long. Go through bead with smaller hook and pull the loop through bead. Continue with 5 more popcorns.

Now...if you don't know how to popcorn stitch go here. And let us know how it goes!
Happy Friday to ya!

GoodWill shopping....

2012-01-06T09:09:00.003-05:00

Little 4X6 old white frames with flower pictures called to us for 50 cents.

I pried open one of them hoping for an old photo or a love letter or some writing. They are just pictures cut from an old magazine. I like them.

Happy Friday morning everyone. Whatsnewatmyhouse.blogspot.com says the work of Christmas is just beginning!

Joy and Rosie's Dining Table......

2012-01-03T15:10:00.002-05:00

Joy and Rosie are the golden girls of the Powers household.

They have their own special dining chair made by Jeff. They enjoy green beans with their chow and carrot snacks. A rescued old chair for two lucky rescued goldens. Didn't he do a fantastic job!!!

Gnomey Gifts..

2011-12-29T09:58:00.003-05:00

I am ready to do battle...I have a handbook to help me. My newest gnome is watching from the poinsettia. (Hand painted by Skyler)!

A Tree Skirt....

2011-12-22T10:38:00.003-05:00

The pattern sat for a year or so, then it was started but not finished for quite a while. There probably should have been more stars and animals had we not cheated, but it was declared to be finished last(?) Christmas. I think there is enough there to tell the story.
Happy Thursday.

Thank you....

2011-12-19T14:42:00.003-05:00

Just a note to say thank you for all your comments. You are such good friends.
We all visited at Sara's home with her husband, Floyd and her family that were there. I'm just sharing a little picture of something she had sitting by the fireplace. I don't know how many years ago it was that I made it, but her special favorites were always Americana.

Thank you again all.

Remembering Sara......

2011-12-15T19:01:00.003-05:00

Sara came into my life about twenty five years ago when my daughter PJ and her son, Jeff married. She has been my friend and we are going to miss her. She loved her big family and her kitty and her many friends.

She was always painting....ceramics, pictures and clothing, jackets and Tees that we loved. The pictures are of a nativity set that she made. I think it is beautiful.

Tonight after everyone left for the visitation I unpacked it and set it up in PJ's antique cabinet. There was a star that I didn't know how to attach and some shepherds hooks that PJ will have to add. We will use something other than the doily but I wanted to post it tonight. A celebration of Sara's life will be this Saturday.

Love to you all, Peggy

Snowman Cartoon....

2011-12-13T10:48:00.004-05:00

I love snowmen cartoons. Mary sent this one this morning in her emails. The only snow we have is that hanging around in the shade, just waiting for more flakes to join them. I hope you laugh.

Something to crochet....

2011-12-11T14:15:00.002-05:00

I love this string of "popcorn" that Barb made for me. The "cranberries" are wooden beads.

If any of you would like to crochet this, maybe I can get Barb to give me the pattern to pass along. Happy Sunday.

Sweet Meadows Farm new pattern.....

2011-12-05T10:31:00.002-05:00

I ordered this pattern from Sweet Meadows Farm . She has the actual dolls for sale on ebay. Aren't they Sweet!

There's no pattern for this guy. He must be 20 feet tall. He was outside the Festival of Trees at the Dearborn Performing Arts building.

And speaking of performing arts, we saw two rising stars yesterday, Sarah and Jennah, in 101 Dalmations! They had so many children who wanted to participate, there were two casts. Lots of proud families and friends (like us). Happy rainy Monday everyone.

Saturday make-over...

2011-12-03T10:52:00.002-05:00

I hope I make you smile and say "I like your new dress". My old one was white with some embroidery on it but it was really in sad shape.

I hope your Saturday is a good one. Bye!

Thursday in Waltz....

2011-12-02T07:49:00.002-05:00

I forgot to remind you all that Thursday was Thrift Store Thursday (you know, like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday). I missed out on the shopping and spent the day with PJ and Jeff. It was Put-Everything-Back Day-After-Painting day there.

This is one of my favorite places with little doggie art from J. Parks in Springfield.

She has lots of bears...and pillows......

A mirror from Flea Market to Fabulous in Springfield and a tussy-mussy and wreath from The Farm. We never see dried flower arrangements here in Michigan and I love them especially those grown by Gail.

Some of you, my friends, have been concerned about my gnome that went missing. PJ you are busted!

My camera is doing weird stuff so my pictures are not the best but you get the idea. This is another mirror from Flea Market to Fabulous, along with a family crock and twig branches from The Farm...

Things for the weekend are Barbara's craft show at Lutheran High West and a PLAY!, 101 Dalmations, with stars from our church, Living Water. Happy first Friday in December 2011.

How do you like me now?

2011-11-30T11:19:00.003-05:00

You do know that a lot can happen when you spend 11 months in an attic with a bunch of wild snowmen, angels and Christmas ornaments....It's enough to make your hair stand on end......

Well, I got a remake, but I'm not so sure about it! PJ said not to change me but something had to be done about the hair. I like the new twist on the scarf because it makes me look debonair (love that word) but I am seriously worried about that mistletoe in my hair. Doesn't it make me look a little sissy?

My socks originally came from the Value Village and no one remembers the name of my pattern because I am so old. I hope my attic companions will like my new look and not throw ornaments at me this year.

Happy Wednesday, blogging friends.

It's a Wonderful Life Tree...

2011-11-29T08:47:00.003-05:00

We all liked this tree at the Festival with the old photos and angel wings.

It is raining cats and dogs this morning, not to mention high winds and flooded streets. A good day to stay home and watch the movie, or read, or sew...

Happy Tuesday. My computer is not liking the weather either.

The Toymaker....

2011-11-28T09:46:00.003-05:00

This one was made probably pre-1990. He gets to be out all year at PJ's house. I think the pattern was from an old magazine which I didn't keep because I said I'm not doin' this again. I do like the ears and the shape of his eyebrows. The roving beard has held up really nicely.

He has little black felt shoes.

Since I got the pattern for Ernie from Olde Country Cupboard, I have been interested in elves. Yesterday we went to Ray Hunter Florist and there were lots of glitzy elves, but no Ernies. Now the Toymaker has an assistant and I am working on some more Ernies.

Attic Santa....

2011-11-27T09:32:00.003-05:00

I am giving some old Santas an update. This guy was made in 1990 and I wish I had taken a "before" picture. He was losing his pants (altho that's the new style) and his bag was stuffed with old newspaper that I had fun reading. I looked to see what was playing at the MJR but there was no MJR then. Coleman Young was the mayor, Pete Waldmeier was a columnist, some of us will remember them. Night of the Living Dead was playing at the Allen Park Theater for $3.50 admission. Now it's a $1.50 and the big theaters are$ 5-$8.
I have some more of these to redo, who knows what I will find.
Just the top of this tree that was all pastels.
Happy Sunday everyone. It's church day!

Festival of Trees, Dearborn, Michigan....

2011-11-26T09:16:00.003-05:00

Festival of Trees benefits Children's Hospital . I have lots of pictures but probably not as many as the skeletons of Northville. White bears were everywhere.
The Cat-in-the-Hat tree........
Lots of purples (and pink)...
Also lots of sticks, Barb observed. I said you haven't been keeping up with Kynda's blog or you would know about the sticks.

And a raffle for 4 p.m. on Sunday. There was also one for a money tree and many beautiful trees and prizes. Also lots of things for the children, face painting, art and Santa. Happy Saturday.

Allen Park Ice Arena Santa......

2011-11-25T08:36:00.002-05:00

I would have thought they would have given him skates and a hockey stick. He seems to be watching everyone ignore him and I would swear that he changes positions. Rebecca gave him some attention with a hug and Vera too.

I hope you had turkey and some mistletoe.

Becca's Home....

2011-11-20T09:00:00.005-05:00

from college, way up north in Michigan. Trying out new hair colors and wearing her TOMS shoes.... John is impatient for the hockey game to start. His very first one to see.

I would like the shoes but I'm not sure I will try the hair color.

Happy Sunday morning. I hope your family gets to come home for Thanksgiving too.

My favorite Apple...

2011-11-15T08:53:00.002-05:00

Last week Lisa took me to Glei's Orchard in Hillsdale. I bought some Honey Crisps, a large bag of Spys, but these are my favorites. They are Mutsu/Shizuka, much better than Granny Smiths.
Also bought these pears and wish I could make some preserves like Mammy made. Does anyone make pear preserves anymore?

I had in mind to make something with apples for Blessed Hope tomorrow. PJ came up with this recipe for me. I tried it out last night and it's very good (and easy).

Super Duper Easy Apple Cake

1 yellow cake mix
1 T. ground cinnamon
1 t. vanilla
2 large apples, peeled, cored and finely diced (recipe calls for Granny Smith)

Make the cake mix according to the box directions, add the cinnamon and vanilla, and fold in the apples. Use a 10 inch tube pan and bake in a preheated 350 oven for 45-55 minutes. You can say it's homemade!

It might as well be spring....

2011-11-14T11:00:00.003-05:00

Kathleen, Eggs in my Pocket, asks us what's blooming in your yard. This is what I found yesterday, November 13th.

Is this weird or what?

Thanks everyone for your comments on my craft show. The shoppers were enthusiastic and I think that's a good sign. See you tomorrow, Happy Monday.

Our Craft Show...

2011-11-12T17:37:00.003-05:00

I bought some foam folding displays at Joann's to hang some of the big stuff on. I was afraid they would turn over but they did really well. They are lightweight to carry in which is nice.

The Crafty Lady, Barb, who doesn't like her picture taken and me and my coffee. Where is my assistant PJ who was such a help today?

The turkeys whined about the bears and the deer.

This is a really nice craft show with repeat customers and crafters who come back every year. They are just the nicest people and so are the Lindbergh School volunteers . Thanks everyone!

Christmas Red.....

2011-11-09T11:42:00.003-05:00

De-Lite is a sculpy product you can buy at Michael's. It air dries. Try it sometime.

Seems everything I made is red, so we will see if anyone else is ready to go back to a traditional Christmas color.

You can't ever make anything as beautiful as this red. By the Master Gardener himself!

Today the rain is dripping on the leaves that need to come down and be raked up. I put them all on my garden, from the front yard, we tote them all to the backyard. Charlie has been helping me this year. We used the leaf vacuum and he said, this isn't as easy as it looks. And he is right.

Happy Wednesday everyone. Thanks for commenting on my Santas.

Three Santas...

2011-11-08T16:44:00.002-05:00

Time is running out. My one lonely craft show is Saturday. The one of the far left can't wait to get out of this house. Ellie gave me the old quilt and I used a pattern by Sweet Meadows Farm.

Lindbergh School at 500 North Waverly, Dearborn, Michigan. 9:30 till 4. I sure hope that Bar-b-que man is there again this year, as well as all my friends that I only see this one day all year. It is the 39th year of this show. Barb and I won't tell how many of those years we have been there. Even when we had many shows, it has always been my favorite. I hope I will be hearing about yours, November is the month for bazaars and craft shows.

Made where?

2011-11-04T09:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I returned a five dollar item to the close grocery store that gives our church a little dividend and is known for featuring "made in Michigan" products. I just needed something to hold some paper towels in the kitchen. After I got the thing up it was so flimsy it wouldn't have held a kleenex, so I took it back.

Turns out it was one of those fast sellers on the end of the aisle so watch out for those.
Also if you care about where your purchases are made, visit Sweet Meadows Farm blog and she will tell you all about bar codes. Plus you can see all her wonderful dolls.

My bird on a pumpkin has a coaster because he wouldn't stay upright. He just rolled away, so I put a jar ring inside. He likes it.

Happy Friday everyone. Barb and I are going to see "Big River" (again). At the Out of the Box theater in Wyandotte, at 7:30. If you can go, you will love the music. Also at 7:30 on Saturday and 3 on Sunday.

Quick Fire Hydrangea......

2011-11-02T10:31:00.003-04:00

If you have room in your garden for this one, it looks so beautiful this time of year. It is not showy and big like most, but its changing colors are worth it.

Thank you all so much for commenting on my pilgrim couple. Somehow their faces seem to say stuff, like I think he looks a little dubious and she looks like she thinks he is being silly. Or is it just me?

Yesterday was so beautiful I did some unnecessary things outside and it looks like we are having another day like that today. Divine Child craft show is this weekend so it will probably snow as it usually does for that. You also have one more weekend to see Big River at the Out of the Box theater in Wyandotte. Be there if you are in the area, it is a big hit! 7:30 pm, Fri. and Sat. 3 pm on Sunday.

November couple...

2011-11-01T10:45:00.003-04:00

A new season and my lone pair of 2011 pilgrims. The pattern for these is from Sweet Meadows Farm.

I'm hoping November is good for all of us and for whatever comes we will be thankful.

Say goodbye to the skeletons....

2011-10-31T11:00:00.003-04:00

Watching for flying objects....

The proposal, I'm sure she said yes.....

Silly old witch, couldn't she see the clock?....

That's it for the Northville skeletons. I wonder what they will come up with next year. Happy Halloween everyone!

More Skeletons......

2011-10-29T11:55:00.002-04:00

This guy was outside a gift shop and he is loaded with little bags of goodies. I saw potato chips in one, maybe he needs to eat a little more junk food.

There were three "ladies". This one is fishing at the plaza.

Look at the kale around this one. It was just beautiful.

Those are mums in the center. I would like to try some kale next year. And of course I liked the twigs (sticks to me) in the center of the mums.

Next up the bride and groom, the smashed witch and the Scream location. Happy Saturday.

Skeletons do sports today.....

2011-10-28T09:29:00.002-04:00

I was thinking this guy needs to beef up just a little....

just chillin' out here with my skateboard......

Show-Off........

I could bench-press two pumpkins too (mini-jack or baby boo).....

And here are our Michigan State and U of M rivals.......
I still have a few more, saving my favorites for last. We had a big frost on the zinnias this morning. Now the sun is shining ! And ... thanks so much for all your comments this week.

First Responder and Skilled Workers at Northville...

2011-10-27T08:32:00.003-04:00

The little shops in Northville have clever names, this one has 40 artists wares.

I liked his yellow hat. A head bump would not be good.

Remember Ghost Story?

Silly old cat...up a tree....

Just a little planter table that I liked.
Maybe two more posts and I will be back to crafts, and it will be Halloween too. The garden is almost gone except for zinnias, lots of pink ones. I hope you have something blooming today.

Walking in Northville....

2011-10-26T09:20:00.003-04:00

Everywhere in downtown Northville, people are walking. Exercise and fitness are important. First you go to the Yoga class.....

Stretching is good, before you begin....I'm sure I can do this....

But watch out, you might just over-do it!

Don't forget your pet, he needs to walk also.... (we thought this one might be a rat?)

And I just had to include these little guys. Everyone is friendly and stops to chat. I asked this walker if she was a Northville native...she just laughed and said oh no, some of your family had to come over on the Mayflower to be a native.

Well that's it for today's skeletons of Northville.
Please don't miss my daughters blog about the breast cancer awareness beautiful bras.
They are just amazing....go here.

And be sure to click on the little tags and read the messages.

The skeletons of Northville, Michigan.....bare bones...

2011-10-25T09:39:00.004-04:00

Barbara took Kathy and I on a tour of the Northville skeletons. I haven't been enthralled with the macabre this year, but these guys are the coolest! I have enough pictures to post all this week. Each one has its own theme!

Northville has wonderful little cafes and most of them have sidewalk seating. You might see some dancing (not usually under a spider web) and definitely will have guitar music on a nice evening here.

There were 20 of these guys and I think Barb had found most of them, as we left we found the one with his head in the bucket. Guess he didn't like the music.

Ernie Elf....

2011-10-22T19:34:00.003-04:00

If you would like to make an elf you should try Ernie, a pattern by Olde Country Cupboard. I didn't make the candy cane, just a little pillow that says "Toys".

Go here and look at the ones made by Olde Country Cupboard.

I got some good reports on the pumpkin pie-cake, so y'all should try it. I forgot to tell you I put some chopped walnuts in the topping on one of them. I liked it best.

We had sunshine today, hope you did too!

A Dragonfly from Myra....

2011-10-20T09:10:00.002-04:00

He was waiting for me when I came home, shut up in a box that was blowing across the porch....
Whew! It's so good to be out of that old box and away from that UPS truck...... I like it here in the lantana....
And don't I look good here in the beets?? (He will be spending the winter inside, but don't say anything.)

He was a gift from Myra and you can visit her here. She makes the neatest things!

It was raining so hard last night when we had our dinner but there were still about 40 people I would say. I left early but maybe I will hear if they liked the pumpkin pie-cake.
Happy Thursday!

Pumpkin Pie-Cake ......

2011-10-19T11:59:00.004-04:00

Today is Living Water Church dinner at Blessed Hope Church. Barbara gave me a recipe for something pumpkin to make.

And I made our old stand-by Texas Sheet Cake. You can never go wrong with a Texas recipe.

Barb's Pumpkin Pie Cake

This is a three stage recipe, don't get them confused like I kept doing. Oven on 350.

A yellow cake mix, but take out 1 cup of it and try not to lose it.
A stick of melted margarine
One egg.
Mix these and spread in a 9 x 13 pan, greased only on the bottom.

Mix one can of pumpkin (I used 15 oz. size)
2 T. pumpkin pie spice
4 eggs
1 and 1/2 cup sugar (I cut this down just a bit).
A Large can of evaporated milk
Pour over the first mixture.

Mix the lost cup of yellow cake mix with
1/2 stick margarine
1 t. cinnamon
1/4 cup sugar
Crumble this up and sprinkle over the pumpkin filling.

Bake 1 and 1/2 hour at 350. Check it after an hour, mine didn't take so long.

I hope they will like it! Happy Wednesday!

Who wouldn't stop here?.......

2011-10-11T11:43:00.002-04:00

A garage sale at this place! And they had a big woods with trails and she had a studio of her very own. In addition to some little doo-dads I picked up......

this photograph framed in the most beautiful color of blue, turquoise I think. I have a fascination with old doors and windows and I know I am not alone in this...

Thanks for all your comments on my Sunday flowers, I wish I could do that every Sunday morning all year. I always think to myself "If you think God doesn't love you, just look at the flowers He sent you!".

And Kynda, I am not a floral designer, I just copy off of you. I love you all this Tuesday morning, be happy.

Sunday flowers.....

2011-10-09T09:57:00.002-04:00

Happy Sunday morning to all my friends!

A gift in my mailbox......

2011-10-07T09:11:00.003-04:00

from that sweet blogger friend of us all...Linda Parker. I had admired it a few weeks ago and she remembered. ...
This is where it will be found at my house, amongst the old books and pictures, near the old clock that refuses to keep time.

Thank you so much Linda for this and all you do for all your blogger friends. This made me very happy.

Through Him we have received grace...Romans 1:5

I like purple for Halloween....

2011-10-05T09:24:00.004-04:00

Thanks a bunch for all your comments on the Crow's Roost little ghost I made. I have only a few Halloween creations this year....too much garden...

I am enjoying seeing what everyone is making. You must have gotten a real early start. It's hard to keep up with the retailers. Aco is putting out Christmas things.

I hope your day is as lovely as here. 70's this week. The only thing to dampen my spirits this morning is those Tigers!

Happy Sunday.....

2011-10-02T10:02:00.001-04:00

God is good.

(Little ghost pattern by Crows Roost Prims).

Solidago Fireworks.....

2011-09-28T18:04:00.002-04:00

This is another fall favorite. I bought this plant in Springfield, it is a few years old now. It has nice foliage all summer . It begins to slowly show color and every day gets brighter. It will bloom several weeks.

I made this picture in the rain, looks like it was glittered. I found a baby bush today with a tiny little bloom.

I have been moving plants around today. I hope my neighbors aren't alarmed as I am moving so much from the back to the front. I can't grow grass anyhow.

Happy Wednesday all.

Stella's Mats......

2011-09-24T10:09:00.003-04:00

I am in love with these little mats, they add a bit to ordinary things around the house.

They are made by my friend, Stella, (age 98 years young). I have written about her before, she makes beautiful afghans to sell at Town Peddler Craft and Antique Mall and recently she has been making these mini-mats that I like so much.

Stella doesn't let any grass grow under her feet. Her crochet needle is always in over-drive. If you are in this area, visit her at Booth NO 3.

Happy Saturday everyone.

New Seeds....

2011-09-23T16:55:00.003-04:00

I am a bit early starting my 2012 garden. But I am probably not the first one to order seeds. I like the name on this one and they promise to dance.

I try a different zucchini every year hoping to get one that doesn't hog up the whole garden. I thought these would be fun to try.

Pumpkins at The Farm and more...

2011-09-20T10:26:00.002-04:00

These pumpkins were so pretty I didn't want anyone to miss seeing them. The embroidery is pretty too. Gail at The Farm makes those beautiful pumpkins every year with her dried flowers. The picture is from The Farm blog.

This one from an email from Mary. Are they onions, squash or pumpkins?? I surely don't know.

But these funny fellows are egg-a-plants! Happy Tuesday. It's Ray's birthday (my son) but he said he didn't want to hear about it. Those who know him will understand.

mon-day-ne nonsense....

2011-09-19T08:56:00.003-04:00

Avast thar, me hearties, today is International Talk Like a Pirate Day. (It's an original concept created in a moment of temporary insanity according to John and Mark's website www.talklikeapirate.com.) People will be having office parties today I'm sure.

Mary sent me an email with this picture of pirate marshmallows.

Have fun with the light side of a pirate but never forget.....never trust a pirate!

Gail's Zinnias

2011-09-17T21:10:00.002-04:00

Gail is my next door neighbor and this is the second year she has had zinnias along the side of the house.

She just collects the seeds and scatters them in May.

I have to say I have been sneaking over and cutting a few. Zinnias are so beautiful this time of year. And I think I will try her method next year. Happy Saturday evening.

Liberty Ladies....

2011-09-15T08:36:00.003-04:00

These ladies are made from a pattern by Hill Kountry Krafts, a very old one but is still available online. I made them last month.

It is a beautiful chilly morning with bright sunshine for my garden. I counted the blooms on the Goldy Honey Bear this morning and there were 27, mostly large ones. I guess you wish I would shut up about the sunflower.

Happy day to everyone.

Pretty Much Picasso....

2011-09-14T13:51:00.003-04:00

About two weeks ago this was a straggly petunia with no blooms. I gave it a buzz cut and a dose of plant food and here it is, prettier than ever.

Thanks everyone for all the good wishes for Jeff and his surgery. He is doing fine and home the same day.

I made salsa today and my recipe is on the blog if you use the search. I listened to "The Postmistress" on CD while I worked. I would rather actually read but haven't figured out how to read and use my hands at the same time. Happy Wednesday.

Goldy Honey Bear Sunflower....

2011-09-13T09:43:00.004-04:00

It seems to get bigger and brighter every day. It is larger than the "Teddy Bear" variety, flowers are nearly pollenless and it has a stalk as large as a hoe-handle so it doesn't fall over. I love it.

I bought these seed at English Gardens but you can look for them online. I also have some in pots that are beautiful also but a little smaller plant.

I'm cleaning up my garden now, it has been a strange year (my green beans took 90 days) and some things died out early in spite of a lot of rain. The squirrels are eating the best of my tomatoes since I didn't plant them any corn. Flowers are at their best, zinnias, sunflowers, four o'clocks and cosmos. How's your garden?

Jeff has his day planned with some knee surgery. We are counting on it going well and it helping him. A beautiful Tuesday to you.

(And thanks everyone for being on the look-out for my missing gnome!)

Missing...

2011-09-12T15:40:00.002-04:00

Last seen, Sept. 1, 2011.

Colors......

2011-09-11T09:36:00.001-04:00

....of love and pride on this day.... and love to you from a primitive plot...

Let's pray...

2011-09-10T14:47:00.007-04:00

It's a beautiful day here in Michigan, we had several days of nice rain and now the sun has come out and the butterflies are everywhere.

Not so for many, Kathleen of Eggs in my Pocket, asks us for prayer for the dire situation in Texas because of the drought. Please go here. It is so much more serious than I realized.

On the other hand, Laura Lynn and the folks in Pennsylvania have had flooding and here is her story.

This makes us wish that we could, maybe just for one day, be in charge of the weather. Probably a good thing we aren't. These are days for lots of thoughts for each other.
Love from Michigan.

Old Books

2011-09-08T09:24:00.002-04:00

This is a treasure that I picked up when we visited The Farm. I never intended to actually read it, but opened it up to look and then sat there and read the whole book.

It was published in 1931, which was probably the reason I bought it. When I find anything older than I am I like to have it around .

Just a story of a Jewish man who just wanted a simple life and since I found it at The Farm it is even more special.

PJ has finished The Help so I'm going back to the Kindle now. While she had it I read an old Anne Tyler book," Earthly Possessions". I'm thinking of re-reading "The Patchwork Planet" also.

Sometimes the books I enjoy most come from suggestions by bloggers so I would really like to hear about your favorite books and authors.

Crafts and salsa tomorrow....rain now for two days, I feel guilty because other parts of the country need it so badly too. Good Thursday, y'all.

From the wholesale craft catalog.....

2011-09-06T12:26:00.003-04:00

This is a page from a recent wholesale catalog I receive. See the little tree with the dots on a stick. In 2007 I decided to make a little tree every year and this one is identical to the very first one I made and sold at holiday craft shows. Maybe I should be flattered that someone thought my little idea was worth mass producing.

You can buy 6 for $3.75. I sold mine for $6.00. It says it is "New". Maybe new to them but I have elaborated on them every year. I haven't decided how they will look this year, but mine will be handmade .

This was my 2008 tree.
and 2009 had a peat pot base.....
I went all out in 2010 and added pips and jingle rusty bells. And some words!

Well, that's the way it goes in the crafts world, nothing is safe as far as ideas, so you might as well laugh about it. I just think they could have changed it just a wee bit. It's good that I won't find out they made a ton of money on my tree- on- a- stick.

Some years back, I saw a sign at Pelham and Outer Drive in Dearborn. It said "Originality is the art of concealing your source." LOL

Hot Peppers

2011-09-05T12:48:00.003-04:00

I picked up these plants at Bob's Market in Southgate, not knowing anything about them except they had a clever name.

They have done really well and when we went to Springfield I took some to Mark who likes hot peppers, still hadn't tried them then. When I finally had the courage to try them I was sorry I had shared them because they were way beyond hot.

Then, I looked them up and they are one of the hottest peppers grown. There is a measurement for the capsaicin in a chili pepper, named after the pharmacist who created it, it is called Scoville Units.

The Scoville Units in a Jalepeno are 2500-8000. But in these little guys it is 100,000-350,000. Sorry Mark. I was able to use them though, I made some Cowboy Candy for myself and Lisa. If you want to make some go here. If you don't know her, you will really like Pickles and Cheese. She has some really goood recipes.

I hope your holiday is going well. It is so cool and breezy here, I was able to open the door for the first time this summer.

Thank you, Miss Barbara......

2011-09-03T16:34:00.002-04:00

I love my new books! Thank you!!!

Joseph, Reuben, Family, Friends.....

2011-09-01T11:10:00.003-04:00

I am the last one to post pictures since the Facebook people always do theirs asap. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was the play, and this guy is our Jeff, who played Reuben. He was cute and funny and sings great.

Friends and Family...Dave, Renee, Jake, Jeff and Skyler.......

This lady is singing to Joseph. Probably "We're so happy you came our way, we would have perished without you."
This is Joseph, played by Cory Shorter, who sings beautifully. And everyone in the play did a wonderful job, every one can be a star.

As it is in any play, the children always steal the show. Especially this one. I didn't know any personally but feel they belong to all of us.

For me, I would never get tired of seeing Joseph. Until it comes again, we can all read and learn from the story we have been given and it is truly Amazing.

Saturday Garden.....

2011-08-27T09:54:00.003-04:00

Graham Thomas reminded me that he hasn't been on the blog this year. Walking out and looking around in my garden after watching Irene on the news is surreal.
Barbara brought this little man to live at my house. I have to figure out an anti-theft device to put on him.

Barbara is a good friend, she comes in, loads down my kitchen table with treasures she has found for me. She let me be in charge of tickets for "Joseph" and I failed to check the time so we were very late and she wasn't even mad.

I hope you and your friends and family are safe this weekend. It is much on everyone's mind even those of us who are going about our usual routine.

A sweet visit to Springfield.....

2011-08-25T08:44:00.004-04:00

This is not the best picture that was taken, and there were many, but it says what I wanted to say. Betsy and Kyle love their Granny K. but PawPaw is a man who is always on the go, and Betsy and Kyle are only two steps behind him most of the time.

On the way down, we happened on this classy touch in the ladies room at a rest stop.
Someone nice left the flowers for everyone and the first person to leave a note just kept the nice feeling of appreciation going. Yeah, I left one too.

We loved seeing everyone, meeting Kyle for the first time, going to The Farm and eating the best peach pie ever. And you can have the recipe...go to The Farm blog here. I don't think I will be making regular pie crust again.

It's always good to be home and safely. I had a good driver, except she sings oldies extremely loud and somewhat off-key. We tried the book-on-tape but found it made her sleepy. They do that to me also.

Thanks for visiting me this morning.

Some doily angels...

2011-08-18T08:31:00.004-04:00

I use a pattern by Off-the-Beam for these little gals.

I missed my day with my little buddy, John Michael, this week to be able to make some food for Blessed Hope . I was able to see my garden stuff be enjoyed along with a good dinner that my friends at Living Water prepared.

Be happy for me, I am going to see Kynda, Mark, Vi and Warren and BETSY and KYLE and RACHEL. It will be the first time I have seen Kyle and only once before have I seen Betsy, my two other great grandchildren.

PJ is driving us and I have "The Postmistress" on CD for us to listen to on the way. Of course, we'll also be stopping at Cracker Barrel.

Rebecca and Charlie are here today and we hope to do something special. Rebecca is leaving for college next week. We are going to miss her so much, but I am excited for her and she is ready. I hope the Math professors are also.

See y'all soon.

Plus-Size Planters...

2011-08-15T20:27:00.002-04:00

If you're eating at The Farmers Cafe in Carlton, you might just as well go a little further down the road and check out the Four Star Greenhouse Proven Winners Garden. We can't resist.
PJ in the coffee cups....
At least 5 feet. They have benches and swings so you can sit a spell. I was thinking today that I don't remember any mosquitoes there. I think they are all at my house.

Saturday Garden.....

2011-08-13T09:32:00.003-04:00

Back when we went to Shipshewanee often, the Amish ladies always had these to sell. I really struggled to get even one plant to grow...

This is a vinca, First Kiss Blueberry. PJ found these at Bob's market. I had always wished to have them, seeds failed me, but look for them, they are just a beautiful color.

I have ONE Jack-b-little. But I think more are on the way, just late.

This is angel vine. You can buy it at the greenhouse for 4.79 a sprig. This grows behind my garage facing the East and it gets pretty cold here in Michigan. I brought it inside for several years but it is a real mess. Then I said, oh well, die if you must...and I have had it come back every year so far.

And this my friends, is why I have these jumbo mosquitoes! Happy Saturday.

Pretense...

2011-08-12T11:30:00.002-04:00

I've been pretending I know all about scrapbooking. I'm the one who lurks in the scrapbooking aisle at Joann's trying to find someone who actually knows what they are doing.

There are all these cutting machines, tags, labels, embellishments (what is that?), rubber stamps, special inks, all costing an arm and a leg. If you are into this venture, I give you credit. If you are doing it for craft shows, you get even more credit.

Mine is just scraps and some paper. Kynda found this old picture I liked and I wanted to use it in some way. A friend said my pillows look like little post-its, so that's what I'm calling them now.

I've been busy cleaning up the raspberry patch. They are a lot of work but it has cooled off and if not for the big mosquitoes, I would be out there all day.

The Free Press had a short interview with gospel artist Marvin Sapp in yesterdays edition about his music and ministry. He said about his wife MaLinda who died last year of cancer "My wife, she had this statement: "Keep it moving, people." She would say it to my kids, to my church, everyone she came in contact with."

Just a thought, because this is one of those days I don't want to move. I hope you are moving along well. It's nice to visit today. Take care of all.

I prefer the Meijers brand.......

2011-08-08T21:15:00.004-04:00

Joy spent some time at my house last week. They only brought two nice carrots for her treat, which were gone right away. The only ones I had were from my garden and they were really puny. I never grew carrots before and still haven't.

Things Rebecca liked at The Henry Ford....

2011-08-05T19:06:00.003-04:00

The museum is not a very good place for pictures, these are just a few for fun of things that she liked and so we can remember our day there. She will be going off to college soon and it's hard to believe.

We went expressly to see the Civil War exhibit which was excellent. There we weren't allowed to take any pictures. I had my own personal tour guide because Rebecca knows her history of the Civil War.

We always like the Freedom exhibit which has the Rosa Parks bus and the exhibit called Your Place in Time. The automobile exhibit will reopen next year. I always say we should go more often.

Tomorrow I will have some pictures from my garden bounty (lol) and my recent house guest Joy. Kynda phoned me after Vi's surgery and she is doing fine.

I hope your Friday has been a good one. Thank you for visiting my blog.

All the rest of the Garden walk pictures...

2011-08-03T09:23:00.002-04:00

These little guys were in almost everyone's yard. Someone said they came from a hardware store....

I don't know what he is supposed to be, a chicken-owl maybe.....

Heads with legs, a baby, a smiling papa and a crying mama....

Hear no, see no, speak no...what happened to do no....
Jeff said, how can she hear anything with all that stuff in her ear. We were disappointed for him that there were no ponds altho we did find one not on the tour that he had worked on. Swimming pools don't count.

It's Wednesday, my day with John Michael, cat in the hat and bubbles. Happy Wednesday.

Art in the Gardens at Belleville....

2011-08-02T08:40:00.002-04:00

This cat was my favorite, he's green.

This must be a metal hunting dog?

This was PJ's favorite, a little mouse.

I asked about the wood piece and the owner said she bought it at Antiques on Main in Belleville. It was just as you walked into her back yard.

I hope you all aren't getting bored with these garden walk pictures. Be patient, I only have a few more.

I appreciate so much all your comments and emails. It makes doing this a lot more fun (as if it could be) when I hear from you all. Thanks a bunch! Happy Tuesday!

Red Things I liked on the Garden Tour....

2011-08-01T08:50:00.002-04:00

I have an idea these came from the Antiques on Main in Belleville.
Same garden, I took lots of pictures here. They also had a pool, which we discussed at length what would happen if we all jumped in, sweaty as we were.

Another garden had this mandevilla. I never have these for some reason. I think they are pricey but two colors are just beautiful together.

This from another garden, a blooming hairdo.

Did you ever see a movie that you walked out thinking that was a waste of time, and then the next day you remember things about it that you really liked? I was that way about this garden tour, today I am remembering things that I really thought were so cool. I have lots more pictures to post too.

I think with garden tours starting in June, you get kinda burned out with them. I wish you could all come to my house for a garden tour.

Garden Walk Hibiscus....

2011-07-31T17:53:00.003-04:00

I have never had a hibiscus. They are really pretty.

Most all of them were really big.

Behind this beautiful red one, are a perennial pair, Jeff and PJ and our friends Sue and Sue. It was very hot but a nice day. I have lots of pictures for the blog.

Happy Birthday Jacob

2011-07-30T10:28:00.002-04:00

Last time he came to visit us, My sweet grandson, Jake and the beautiful girl in the blue dress is Skyler. Happy Birthday Jake! I am so proud of you.

A Friend is Someone who likes you....

2011-07-29T11:38:00.003-04:00

That's what her book says. I don't think she likes me tho, I had to change things all afternoon before it suited her.. She still doesn't like those pants.

This body pattern is Veena's Mercantile, she is very large, I would say 30 inches.

We had storms again during the early morning hours. I seem to be obsessed with the weather. PJ is calling me Chuck (a TV weatherman name). Bizarre lightening and thunder.

See y'all.

Tall and Handsome....

2011-07-28T09:40:00.004-04:00

Every year I post this plant and everyone gives their opinion of what it is. This year it is 10 feet tall, so if I have any new visitors, maybe they have a name for it also.

We had a big, big rain. Ann Arbor, five inches! Sadly I lost my biggest fish last night, he got stuck in the drain, and yes I did fish cpr but I guess it was just too late.

My garden is a happy one this morning. Hope you are too!

New-to-me flowers

2011-07-27T20:27:00.003-04:00

Love-in-a-mist: can't believe I never tried it before, I'm hoping it self-seeds.

Strawberry Spinach. I ordered the seed from Pinetree Farms. It just sounded interesting. I haven't eaten any, as it is kind of puny. I think it's just decorative.

Hey, a new cat. She's really big. It's a Pat Beam bunny pattern, turned cat. Happy Wednesday everyone.

More Garden....

2011-07-24T09:24:00.003-04:00

It was so quiet and still this morning. We were given another nice rain during the night.

This tomato is a "Legend". At Graye's Greenhouse there was a note that it was the most requested tomato plant last year. Of course we have to have what everyone else does.
We will have to wait and see how they taste.

Another "corn" plant tropical. This one is a popcorn plant. Doesn't look exactly like popcorn but smells like MJR theater lobby (not that their popcorn is good, but it does smell that way).

I was browsing USA Today news, many tragedies this week, and I read this article about the Amish. If you have time, it is a good read for Sunday morning.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2011-07-24-amish-tragedy_n.htm

Candy Corn Plant

2011-07-23T21:02:00.003-04:00

A gifted plant that Barb thought we would like. Mine is doing really well, except it is to the top of the stake and I think, what now? I looked it up and it is a tropical so I thought I might bring it in for the winter and try to save it. I think I would plant it in the garden with a larger trellis as I think it would get much bigger. It's a nice plant to have, if you see one at the garden center. Happy Saturday!

Got Pumpkins?

2011-07-22T18:25:00.002-04:00

We had a wonderful rain this afternoon and my pumpkins are doing nicely even though it has been so hot.

I have lots of Baby boos (white) only a few Mini Jacks, I gave most of those plants away. One called Bat Wings and Orange Magic. They are all small.

The angel lady is from a pattern by Bless Your Heart Country Crafts. She has alpine wool hair and pants from an old pillow case that was almost threadbare, but had the prettiest crochet trim. Funny face and funny feet she has. Happy Friday all..

Cucumbers and Punkin Man...

2011-07-16T10:43:00.003-04:00

These are Asian Burpless, Tasty Jade from Johnny's Seeds. I prefer Cool Breeze but couldn't find them anywhere this year. I'm going to make some sun dills but I will have to cut them up.
Chestnut Junction pattern you can make ...if you start today. About 12 inches tall, easy to make.

Happy Saturday morning.

Today's Plant and Yesterday's Yarrow...

2011-07-14T10:03:00.002-04:00

This is called Wood Betony, it is a member of the lamb's ear family. It is a nice upright flower in a tidy clump, both are requirements for this garden. It is said to ward off evil spirits, well maybe.

More about yesterday's yarrow plants. They don't ask for a lot of water, as a matter of fact they will do better with hardly any. And they are fantastic for drying. I was wondering if Gail has any at the Farm, if not, she may next year.

They are called Gold Yarrow, Achillea filipendulina (asteraceae). Some are named Coronation Gold and Cloth of Gold, mine are just plain Gold. And they have lots of medicinal purposes, hence the name Achillea, because it is said they healed Mr. Achilles, you know, the one with the bad heel. What would I do without Google?

Now, all you crafters, it is time to make fall stuff. I made these last year and they sold really well at the show. It's Renee's pattern, at Crow's Roost Prims.

Happy gardening today.

Annie and her Rooster (and garden)

2011-07-12T07:58:00.003-04:00

My favorite yarrow, stands upright with big blooms for a long time and is very yellow.

Well, no, it didn't turn out like Sandy's pattern (Olde Country Cupboard) altho I tried very hard and redid the face more than once. She just wanted to be who she wanted to be.
Yesterday we tried picking in this container, but it didn't work out so we used it for a nice hat. All the berries got eaten. Happy Tuesday.

Centaurea Macrocephala

2011-07-09T08:05:00.002-04:00

I keep having to look up the name of this plant, maybe this post will help me remember.
It is one of my favorite plants. This is how it looked early June.

It began to bloom about two weeks later, mid June.

It is now on its way out but still really pretty. One year I dried some of them and they held up really well. Doesn't seem to need any special care, it is about four feet tall. Barb gave me a start of it.

How's your Saturday? Stay cool.

Community Garden Walks...

2011-07-08T18:33:00.003-04:00

This was our favorite on the Trenton Garden Walk a few weeks ago. The garden has its own little house.

This is the inside of the little house. Olde Bear must live there.
There are two garden walks tomorrow, that we know of, Lincoln Park and Redford, but we have wimped out because of the hot weather. There are usually about seven or eight on the walks, so it takes a few hours and getting in and out of the car and parking , plus getting lost a few times. So maybe next weekend will be cooler.

Do you have garden walks in your community? Usually they are sponsored by garden clubs. I hope everyone has a great weekend.

A joyous color....

2011-07-03T09:04:00.003-04:00

A color like no other...one of my mother's day lilies from a couple of years back. I always put them out on the chance that they will grow in my garden.
A little shoulder doll of no particular pattern with some old crochet I thought should be used.

We had 100 degrees yesterday, according to the Sportsplex thermometer, altho our weather person said only 98. Then big storms with lots of lightning and a good rain for my garden.

Love to all.

A Gift from V....

2011-07-01T08:26:00.005-04:00

V sent me this little light catcher and it goes really well here with some little metal chairs and table we found at J & L Antiques. From the looks of the ground cover, the bugs are having tea there. I think I will be moving it in a place that has more sun.

And Floyd sent me this in an email, it was fascinating to me. Try it, morning worship it is.
They are high school students! Go here

I hope everyone has a good weekend planned. We do, our Jake will be home! Happy Friday.

Something handmade at last....

2011-06-30T15:45:00.002-04:00

A sweet little pattern by Crow's Roost Prims. I didn't put arms on them or the stars that she used but I put a scrap of hair, used oil pencils for color and some old buttons for eyes.

Rene's patterns are easy to make. You can find her here. Happy Thursday y'all.

Got Milkweed?????

2011-06-29T21:29:00.002-04:00

I sure do and so do my neighbors because of me. I didn't know until this year how sweet it smells but it sure is prolific. However, it is easy to pull up and the butterflies and bees like it a lot.

PJ bought the slate sign for me at the Trenton Garden Walk. Happy Wednesday evening to all.

Breakfast from the garden...

2011-06-28T08:05:00.002-04:00

"My grandmother brings herself a sausage biscuit and the good stuff for me. And a USA Today paper that we are learning to browse. I can identify all the sports pictures (except hockey) and we are going to work on the big map of the USA next to see where all of you live.

I wasn't real sure about the peas. Decided to just eat the inside. Gracie didn't like the pods either but my Aunt Lisa does."

Sunday combos...

2011-06-26T09:28:00.006-04:00

Pink bicycle by Cyndi with sunflowers and sign...

Red and orange and pink are a nice combination....

A dirt tier cake will be beautiful soon.... at Trenton Historical House garden

A buggy and some old quilts....
I just wanted to say hello today, June will be gone before we know it, it has been busy. I am going to church this morning. Love to all.

The Strawberry Patch fun.....

2011-06-20T21:58:00.002-04:00

Thursday was the first day of Kynda's visit with us. But I don't have a picture of her helping pick. There was some discussion about eating while picking.

Joy helps P. J. with all the chores. She likes green beans and carrots but not strawberries. Rosie likes hostas.

The first time to pick for John Michael.

I have lots of pictures from the Trenton Garden Walk and Proven Winners Gardens and maybe some of us. We had such a good weekend.

And now I will say goodnight, I am off for another garden tour. If you would like to go along click here.