spindle cottage

Closing this blog go to http://nannykim-nannykim.blogspot.com/

2011-01-04T21:26:00.003-05:00

Well, as we have moved from Spindle Cottage, I am closing this blog. We moved to simplify our lives (at least that is one reason). I think it will be good to have less blogs! SOOOOOOOOOO, I will do my main blogging at http://nannykim-nannykim.blogspot.com/ . A new year and hopefully a less cluttered one?

Moving/ internet???

2010-12-19T15:12:00.003-05:00

We are packing now---just for a move across town. ...downsizing to a condo. I am not sure if we will have internet later this week. So have a Merry Christmas. I am hoping I can borrow someones signal for a bit!

Painting old bathtub and baby it is cold outside!

2010-12-15T09:47:00.004-05:00

Have you ever had an old tub refinished. We did this in one of our other homes and just had it done at Spindle Cottage. Man, what a difference it makes.

It is all taped off in the above pictures and that will need removing today. The odor the day of the painting is very strong!! Gave me a headache!! Had to have the bathroom window open and it was very very cold outside. We have been having teen temps in the mornings here in SC.

Thankfully I have the above gas fire and another fireplace with gas---makes all the difference!!

A few touches of Christmas while waiting on the MOVE

2010-12-07T13:05:00.003-05:00

Above is a few of a front room---I thought it was kind of cool looking through the lace divider.

A sprinkling of berries above and below. We have a popcorn (Chinese Talo spelling?) tree--it has these white popcorn like things this time of the year. I have placed some in the wreath.

And lastly lots of nice warm fires in front of my new old coffee table. It was 18 degrees here in SC---which translates to cold in our old homes made for the warm weather!!

I have a question---I am trying to decide on wall colors for the condo that we may be moving to later this month. I am having a very hard deciding. First of all it has to go with my furniture, and secondly I need to feel warm and cozy, but I am kindof getting sick of yellows. I was thinking of airy blues and greens, but I don't know if I could live without the warmth of yellows. How do you all make up your minds???????? Should I paint large areas and see? It seems like a waste of time and money, but then perhaps not! If I should paint and not like it then that would be more time and money.

House on Fire

2010-12-02T21:24:00.003-05:00

I know this may look a little weird , but I ordered this DVD from Amazon called
Fireplaces, Fishtank & Lava . It does 3 types of fires---one classical , one modern, and the one you see here on my TV is Campfire (you hear the fire burning and the peepers in the backgroud).

I find this so soothing and comforting!! It replays itself too. (It also has a lava thing and an aquarium---my cat loves the aquarium). But it was only 8 dollars and change with free shipping!!! Very nice---I even like it when I have a real fire going. The thing that is strange is I feel soothed and warmed just looking and listening to it!

PS. FOR THOSE OF YOU WITH A TV IN YOUR BEDROOM this would be really cozy!

Christmas pictures for me by my son to bring smiles

2010-11-28T18:31:00.006-05:00

While my oldest son was here for Thanksgiving he drew two happy pictures for me for Christmas time cheer.

These are happy trees that ooze contentment and smiles for me.

This one spoke to me for some reason---the red reminded me of Jesus's blood shed for me, and the green mountains spoke of the new and everlasting life we have in him. The branch reminded me that if we abide in him we will produce golden fruit.

Together they just make for some happy Christmas pictures and they bring me much pleasure. PS. My son loves drawing cartoon type pictures....but he also does regular kinds. He loves doodling and his drawings are sometimes weird! I will have to show some of his other ones perhaps in the distant future. We will probably be moving in December and then I will have to change the title of this blog!

A walk on the beach

2010-11-28T15:59:00.004-05:00

I love this time of the year. We took a walk on Friday (after Thanksgiving--see my blog here :

http://nannykim-nannykim.blogspot.com/2010/11/thanksgiving-2010-with-grandpa-and-boys.html

for that). As you can see it was about to rain.

:
I love the shades of gray on a day like this and the feel of the wind.

It was nice to just walk and talk and discuss things as a family.

I think the beauty of creation is such a wonderful gift, don't you!?

Cork wreath (unfinished)

2010-11-19T16:03:00.003-05:00

Well I have started a cork wreath--but we need more corks! We haven't always been good at remembering to save the corks. Plus some corks on the bottles are not cork! Anyways, I like the way it is going. I guess I should have wrapped the wreath first with something brown----but in person it is not noticeable---for some reason the flash or the picture shows the flaws a bit more. I left space for a big ribbon for hanging it, but alas I have no ribbons since we have been de-cluttering for a move! SOOOOOOOOO you see a bit of bare twine wrapped in a space.

Interesting things AND MOVEMBERHOOD

2010-11-16T19:57:00.007-05:00

I saw this pic in one of my mags ---a very interesting chalk wall. Here is a close up

Interesting don't ya think?

I replaced my coffee table for the one in the forefront of the picture below. It makes me happy because it is an old wooden one. I should have taken a better picture of it. It is a pale yellow color.

And last but not least....look who is in my kitchen:

My oldest son hamming it up!! ha! HE HAS A MUSTACHE FOR MOVEMBER (NOT SURE OF THE SPELLING)--ITS FOR PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS.

"The Mo, slang for moustache, and November come together each year for Movember.

Movember challenges men to change their appearance and the face of men’s health by growing a moustache. The rules are simple, start Movember 1st clean-shaven and then grow a moustache for the entire month. The moustache becomes the ribbon for men’s health, the means by which awareness and funds are raised for cancers that affect men. Much like the commitment to run or walk for charity, the men of Movember commit to growing a moustache for 30 days. "

wine corks

2010-11-12T10:19:00.001-05:00

How do you like this little restaurant in Charleston, SC? Do you see what is in the window? Here is a bigger picture:

Yup it is filled with wine corks. A nice Italian restaurant....with wine ;-)

Do you remember 70's McDonald cups?

2010-11-06T19:16:00.002-04:00

These cups always make me smile. My girl friend and I got these back in th 70's when McDonald's was introducing their new breakfast the egg mcmuffin (I don't know how you spell it). These cups are so cheerful with their orange and yellow colors and the smiling sun---they are just plain happy!

Fall pleasures

2010-11-05T14:20:00.005-04:00

I happened to be looking through an old magazine and I liked the above picture. I like the look of pine cones with pumpkins.

So here is a bit of a pic of what I did.

Blue and Yellow

2010-11-02T16:56:00.003-04:00

I have to say that I just love blue and yellow together. I had one of these blue toile panels and had failed to purchase the other one.

Thankfully I found its mate on Ebay! They shipped it the next day! WOW! These colors make me happy and I do hope to use them when and if we get to downsize to a condo. We should know by next week..........

Beat, I am! Selling Spindle Cottage

2010-10-27T21:42:00.004-04:00

I am very achy. We are getting ready to sell Spindle Cottage. Yes, I know, this is not the time to sell! No, no, it is not! AH well. We hope to downsize now that our children are out of the nest. I have been cleaning out years of accumulation! I have taken so much stuff to Goodwill today and bags to the trash. It is amazing how many areas just have accumulated!! Even if something should happen to prevent a move, I am thankful for the incentive to clean.

I still have more to do.....but it is a great feeling to spend the day this way, even though I am tuckered out!

Fall pictures and beauty

2010-10-22T10:33:00.005-04:00

I love this picture and decided to hang it for this time of the year. It always makes me smile and makes me think of the bounty we have with food and family. It is fun to celebrate even with small groups!

Above are the bright orange berries that greet me from one of my windows this time of the year---such a happy color!! I am thankful for these little things!

Look what arrived from Kalee at http://www.katillacshack.com/

2010-10-20T14:57:00.003-04:00

I won the little real McCoy dish from Kalee!! It arrived today and it is such a nice orange- treat for the Fall

Makes you feel like smiling doesn't it? Ps. Kalee appears to be ending her blog--read here: http://www.katillacshack.com/ We will miss her!

Being Lazy during Fall

2010-10-18T14:45:00.004-04:00

Fall has been beautiful here. Cool nights and warm golden days.

Boots and I..........well.....

We have been enjoying reading and munching on apples from the NC mountains........ YUP.....we are satisfied. PS. Something is going wacky with the size of my pictures. I had made them smaller and for some reason they sometimes show in giant form! WELL---now they are fixed--ah weird stuff going on.

My Son returns to a spoooooky place

2010-09-17T21:49:00.002-04:00

My son is moving back from Seattle to the Charleston, SC area.....but while he awaits to move into his apartment, he may spend time in a spooooooky old Charleston house.

It has these windows as pictured above, that change into doorways---they slide upwords.

It has old parkay (sp?) floors, with left over Christmas decorations. There are creaky scary sounds in the night....and things that have been seen that are weird.

Hopefully he will not have any further spooky stories to tell.

and....he will leave in one piece when his furniture arives in a week so he can more into a less scary abode.

And when I got done exchanging rooms........

2010-09-12T14:20:00.001-04:00

I exchanged rooms (see the post below). Later on the picture above is what happend. Now who is doing the reading?

Switching or Exchanging two rooms!

2010-09-04T19:37:00.004-04:00

It all started when I brought these outdoor gnomes inside to sit by the fireplace. I think they worked a spell on me. They gave me a desire to do a switch in my rooms. I moved the dining room into one of the living rooms and moved the living room into the dining room . HAVE YOU EVER DONE A ROOM SWITCH?

Above is what was once the dining area. I have made it a cozy den area.

This is a view of the other side (above).

Notice--on the shelf I spelled Spindle Cottage with the scrabble pieces (it was the gnomes' idea).

Above is now the dining room, but it used to be a living room . There is a fireplace on the right side, not showing in the picture. This is where the gnomes are sitting.

This room can double as a craft room and a computer/laptop area as well as additional seating for eating.

Here (above) is a view from another side--the sunny clock makes me laugh--it makes me think of the Jimmy Dean sausage advertisements.

You can tell which rooms are the same by the wall color. Unfortunately I should have taken them in the same direction!! The 2 before pictures are on the left and the afters are on the right.

So have you done this before????---it is fun. Let me know!

My afghan is finished in time for Fall! & Hurricane Earl

2010-09-01T20:17:00.006-04:00

Today I worked on finishing up this very thick afghan. It is made by crocheting 2 strands of yarn at the same time. It is way bigger than it appears in this picture since it is partially folded and on the floor too. I had made one a while back and my hubby and I both loved its warmth, so I made a second one. Now we will both be warm and cozy when the cooler weather arrives.

So now I suppose I should start something for my next grandson who is supposed to be born in January......I will have to think about what kind to make for this new one!
His parents are vacationing in NC and they may be in the path of Hurricane EARL!! We will see what happens Thursday and Friday! They may have to evacuate.

PS> my daughter does have to evacuate!

Busy decluttering

2010-08-30T12:31:00.005-04:00

Well, since my youngest has finally moved out(see post below this one) I can get rid of some (SOME) of the clutter in this cottage!! Some of these items above are ready for Salvation Army pickup. Salvation army in my area said they were low on funds because they hadn't had as much donations or sales and they have had to cut way back on their children programs. So remember they will come to your house for pickups of furniture, etc.

Below you can see, that I have had two sets of chairs squeezing in around one of my tables.

But not anymore......Finally I will have a little less clutter....it almost makes me feel like dancing. I have much more to do ....but at least there is a start, eh??

Ps. I made a good Quinoa Vegetable soup today---quick and easy--go HERE

My baby has left the nest

2010-08-23T20:24:00.002-04:00

Well, my baby has officially left the nest. He moved out most of his remaining things this weekend. Notice I say most.....do they ever take ALL of their things?.....I don't think so.

Now all of my children are out on their own! It is actually a wonderful feeling to see them all out on their own and making lives of their own. I love to see how God leads and provides for each one. YUP, a good feeling.

Cat love

2010-08-23T10:32:00.002-04:00

My 15 year old cat is so affectionate. He likes to put his paw on my head or shoulder if I am sitting down. Sometimes he meows at me until I do sit down so that he can apply his affection.

Unfortunately, I am the one getting grey, even though he is the one getting old.........no...no...I am not getting old.....I am getting younger.......my hair just doesn't agree!!!

I love rainy Fridays!

2010-08-20T12:37:00.002-04:00

I love Books, tea, specialty muffins, and a dark rainy day. What a good mixture!

I am reading a series by the painter of light, Thomas Kinkade. He has a Cape Light series and I have found that they get better as you get further into the series. It is nice light reading that mixes a cozy town with some interesting characters, some touches of romance, and some spiritual thoughts. So I plan on doing a little enjoying today.

The muffins I am eating came from another series that he has begun. These were served at a bead and breakfast place in one of his books. They are to die for! They can be found at my recipe blog here:
http://nannykimsrecipes.blogspot.com/2010/07/morning-glory-muffins-from-inn-at-angel.html

They are full of lots of good stuff--coconut, pinapple, nuts, golden raisins, carrots!! heavenly!

Have a nice weekend!
Ps. I have the same post at my nannykim bog since I accidently put it there first!

linking to foodie friday here: http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/

thankful that romance lives on

2010-08-18T16:43:00.002-04:00

I am thankful for romance. I have been married 33 years and my hubby and I are still in love ;-). I love flowers and I have enjoyed these this week. I love the contrasting colors and the way these 2 mix together. I am so thankful for the blessings of an enduring relationship---it is worth the work, isn't it!

Ps. It is not my anniversary---he just likes to bring me flowers!

The Bishop strikes again

2010-08-16T11:33:00.001-04:00

You can see WHY he is the bishop.Ps.I am beginning to feel much better after a high powered antibiotic.

Bathroom inspiration? ha!

2010-08-03T09:36:00.003-04:00

I found this quote on the Inspired Room blog (I believe that is what it is called!). I have this chalkboard space in my TINY bathroom. It is a good place for inspiration because this is what you see when sitting! Ha!

Ps. thanks for the encouraging words on the last post.

Under the weather/ and thoughts

2010-08-02T16:05:00.004-04:00

I have been under the weather since May! I can't quite believe it. It varies from day to day. It all started out with neck ache, stomach ache and then moved on from there to a run down feeling, sinus post nasal drip, sore throat and ear pressure. My stomach is fine, but the rest remains. We will see if the doc has any ideas. I can't figure out why I would be getting allergies, if this is what it is....at least not this bad.

I am glad for a comforting Bishop Boots.

AND lots of books.

One of the few things I have done is this idea of toilet paper in a basket--isn't it thrilling? Doesn't this make you vastly excited and make your day? Ha! At least it freed up a little closet space!

We have had some beautiful evenings. I am thankful for all of these things. I will probably link this post up to some linky parties, a bit later.........life goes on and it is precious. ...but when your head and throat are achey it is hard to focus! and what a wimp I am for saying so!!! When you think of the hardships people are facing....so I am thankful anyways.

Chalkboard Thursday

2010-07-29T07:24:00.004-04:00

Chalk board Thursday is here

In this picture below you can see the chalk board I made from a distance, hanging on the kitchen wall to the right of the sink. This gives me inspiration every day.

Here is a closer view of what it says!

This chalkboard above is made from an old frame thing that was for holding calanders.

I am currently working on another chalkboard project. I wanted a sign for my Spindle Cottage to hang inside. I have taken a white dish and painted the center with the blackboard paint. I will be the name Spindle Cottage on this.....don't have time to do pics of it right now. Have a blessed Day!! Got to do some exercise!

Rednesday

2010-07-27T21:16:00.007-04:00

I am doing a weird post for Rednesday. I found a great recipe using berries at the Whole Foods site. It starts like this photo, but to see the rest you have to go to my recipe blog. http://nannykimsrecipes.blogspot.com/2010/07/raw-berry-crisp-whole-foods-recipe.html

Then there are these cool red pots in on this porch in Mount Pleasant, SC.

And some red/orange doors from Charleston. I hope this has driven you crazy with the way I posted this!! Happy Rednesday Wednesday! See side bar for the link to other Rednesday bloggers...actually it would be faster to click here.

Rubber ducky--the true one?

2010-07-22T22:26:00.003-04:00

My youngest son has a thing for Rubber Ducks! Notice that the one marked Baby Rubber Duck has a pink mouth, thus this is appropriate for Pink Saturday.

These guys are so nice--soft, not hard. They squeeze easily and squeak easily.

They are hand painted too! Aren't these sweet!

My son, the one who loves rubber ducks, is home for a day. He just got back from military training in Mo. and is headed out tomorrow with much of his stuff ! (Yes, for getting rid of some clutter!) He has summer camp next for about 2 weeks, and then on to more schooling. He has his degree, but is thinking on working on some more classes.

Well , everyone, have a ducky weekend! for more pink go here on Satuday:
http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/

A confused Billy asks WHY?

2010-07-22T11:49:00.004-04:00

Billy, the sporty monkey, is confused. Nannykim has been moving furniture AGAIN. He keeps thinking this will STOP. But every few weeks she moves something. Her husband has requested it remain the same for 6 weeks. Perhaps this time it will?!

Above she has switched the angle of the table, removed a leaf (is that what you call it?) to make the table smaller for the area, and moved her wicker chairs to the table.

She changed up some of the tea cups--adding some fun ones to the gouping.Notice the wee sock money on the shelf (very wee one)

And she moved some other tables around in the dining area creating a nice little buffet place and also a handy computer area. Why does she do this? Because it makes her feel like she is in another place....or that she is on vacation.....or What? Why do you guys move your furniture? Billy, really wants to know!

Blue Hour photography

2010-07-20T09:27:00.002-04:00

I just came across the site http://bluehoursite.com/ . It is a really cool site and tells about the blue hour. It even gives the time in your given location.You can get really neat pictures of a dark blue sky after sunset and before sunrise.

Last night as I was having a bath I noticed the blue hour was approaching since there is a window with a nice view of the lob lolly pines from our second floor bathroom. I decided to put my camera on the night setting and try a few photos. The first is facing toward the West where the sun sets and it had not gotten quite to the full blue light stage.

The second is facing more towards the East. This captured more of the blue light but I did get a bit of a halo thing or double on the moon.

I will have to have more fun with this at some point. But if you go to their link you will find all kinds of interesting stuff about it.

A son should be returning home for a few days

2010-07-18T21:44:00.003-04:00

Our son should be returning home from Mo. to SC for a few days visit. Our ducks are ready ;-)

Home sweet home

Summertime/ Marriage and Anniversary time

2010-07-17T07:22:00.003-04:00

This is a great song about marriage. My husband and I have been married now, 33 years--this song is great for us or anyone! Blessings and enjoy

Outdoor wednesday

2010-07-13T14:19:00.007-04:00

It is going to be outdoor Wednesday so I thought I would show a few things that delighted me this week. To see others doing Outdoor Wednesday go here: http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

This dragonfly landed on my kitchen window. Notice he has a bug and I watched him eat it! Did you know dragonflies eat mosquitoes too!! I used to think Purple Martins were good for this , but I read that that is false--they don't eat many. But dragonflies do!

I also watched the tail-less squirrel below. He hangs by his feet as shown in another post. He has lived here for a few years.

What does all of this tell you about my home and yard? 1. We do have lots of mosquitoes. 2. We do have lots of acorns and oak trees some of which the squirrels have planted. 3. We do have lots of squirrels (about 9). 4. UNFORTUNATELY the squirrels eat my pears before they ripen!!

Thrifty Thursday & show and tell Friday

2010-07-08T08:19:00.008-04:00

Today is Thrifty Thursday here

It is also show and tell Friday here

Notice this squirrel has no tail---so instead of hanging with his tail this is what he does:

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What could be more thrifty than finding a shell at the beach with a hole in it---I think it is fun to attach it to my bracelet or necklace--it brings back memories of the day.

The above coffee mug was NOT really a Thrifty find! But I had broken one of my favorite pottery mugs. I love them when they have a slim base that I can wrap my hand around easily!! I do also love a blue mug. Pottery mugs speak to me because they are handmade and have such a smooth neat feeling to them. I got this one this past Saturday at our farmer's market. The man that made it was selling pottery here so a very cool find for me; I love to meet the artist!

Of course what could be more thrifty than growing your own tomatoes. We have to get them picked before the bugs eat them!! I love tomatoes in a row on the kitchen window, just waiting to ripen and be eaten in so many ways!! ha!!

Decorating with Old Postcards

2010-06-30T08:28:00.009-04:00

I love old postcards. They tell a story. I especially love ones with notes and stamps!
(note for Pink Saturday viewers notice the pink cards! and red cards for rednesday!)

I recently purchased some from Ebay that were from the South Carolina area, since that is where I live. It was nice to see some scenes, bridges, buildings, gardens, etc that once were around (like the old charleston bridge) and some that still are around.(Pedro's South of the Border).

The card above on the lower left has a 6 cent stamp.

I love seeing the changes in stamps : some from 1cent, 3 cent, 5 cent, 6 cent--hmm, not sure if I have shown them all here.

The one above is from 1940 before we in the USA entered WW II

This one above is from 43 and the person was writing from the Citadel in Charleston--must have been doing military training there.

The one above with the lighthouses is new.

I think this is my oldest one from 1935.

I decided to place these in my half bathroom where there is no shower or tub to do damage to the cards. It is fun to look at them and think of places and old times, and people . I wonder about the people who wrote the notes and licked the stamps. It gives me a warm feeling. ....a connection with the past.

I got this idea from the Rice Paddy Restaraunt in Georgetown, Sc. here . Which has wonderful food and is in an old historic port town. They had postcards in their ladies room and I spent time reading them!

I will link this with PINK SATURDAY which is coming up, since there are lots of pink azelias in the postcards! Go here http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/ on Saturday for more pink stuffy! Also go here :http://www.suelovescherries.blogspot.com/ for Rednesday on Wednesday!

Pink Saturday

2010-06-24T15:38:00.007-04:00

For Beverly's Pink Saturday I thought I would show some stages in a transformation of my lower living room and some added touches of pink. The first shot shows one ugly, UGLY couch (one of a pair of couches). I played with covering it up and with pillow combinatioins.

The two I decided I liked best were the ones below

Right now I have it as below , but I do like the one above too. The greenish pillows in the one below tie it in better with the rug.....but I am still thinking.

FRANKLY anything is better than the original couch!!!! I usually have it covered with something! Have a happy pink Saturday!! To go back to Beverly's for more link ups on Saturday go here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/

Table Top Tuesday

2010-06-22T10:43:00.015-04:00

It is Table Top Tuesday at Marty's and I have recently made a few changes at Spindle Cottage--but I am still working on the area below. I may add more white plates.

I am enjoying the blues and whites together.

I changed up the photo in this kitchen with a beachy one I won from Michelle at http://schematiclife.blogspot.com/ I keep moving her pitures around (as I do all pictures--it enables me to enjoy them more!!--I have 2 others that go with this one in another room)

I love the swirly pale pink vase above--it makes me happy --filled mostly by my wild flowers.

Sometimes I like one very big pot of flowers on a small table...... Well go to Marty's to see more table tops! Ps. for more scenes from my home go to the post below this one ;-) right here:
http://spindlecottage.blogspot.com/2010/06/what-i-like-about-my-home.html

what I like about my home

2010-06-17T15:54:00.004-04:00

On Monday it is show off your cottage Monday here:http://houseinroses.blogspot.com/ So I am adding this post for this linky!

I am going to add this post to this link here: http://secretgardencottage.blogspot.com/ she is doing a feather my nest. I think my nest has feathered me! ;-)

Grace at http://gracie-senseandsimplicity.blogspot.com/ is considering on doing a spot on what I like about my home. I thought I would participate. She aims to have it up in June around the 17th! But I decided to go ahead and do this post. I think this is a good exercise to focus us on the positive in our homes!.SOOOO SPINDLE COTTAGE, HOW DO I LOVE THEE, LET ME COUNT THE WAYS:

I love all of the different built in shelving I have in this home. I have shelving in a lot of different areas. There is the above corner unit and the below bookcase area which are two among many.

I love the old doors with little spindles set into the window areas of the doors.(below)

I actually love the little rod iron decoration in the doorway, and some of the spindles and old hanging light fixtures (below).

I like having shelving around the fireplaces....

I like the different fire places and the fun part of changing them up.

Ok, here I might loose a few of you, but I love my old kitchen. I love the old 40-50 style cabinets. I grew up in a home like this. I am in love with my old enamel red and white table too.

The simplicity of the cabinets speak to my heart and always reminds me of the simpler days of my childhood. (oops, there is a fake spider on one of the cabinets handles!)

Did I say I loved the old enamel table? Yes I did --it is great for putting hot stuff on , as a work surface for doing food prep work, a laptop work surface and even a place for quick breakfasts and lunch (below)

It is fun to change things around by just changing the rugs or whatever!

Notice the spindles (below ) at the top of the entry into the kitchen and the tongue and grove wood of the room near the kitchen. It just makes me feel at home.

Of course I love my little King or Bishop (below)

I love my bay window area that looks out to the back garden

Another old light fixture below--

I enjoy the memories of the murals my son did as a young lad and the weird angles of the bedroom below.

the bird and nest mural --in the dining area......

All the wood floors

I like the fact that we can eat in many different areas in this home!

I love the warm feeling my wood floors give to my heart and the filtered light below

I even think I like my small worn out bathrooms!! WHY??? I am not sure......

I like my chalk board

I like the garden views out of my windows below

I like my herb garden (it does have a few veggies and flowers)

I like my clothes line.....

Last of all I like our location --near the beach. And of course I love our monkeys! Minkey, Zephir, and GI

I have left out Meecy and Billy....I introduced Meecy on my monkey blog.....Billy awaits introduction---that will be in a future post!

rednesday

2010-06-15T19:43:00.008-04:00

Yes it is here again! REDNESDAY!! at: http://suelovescherries.blogspot.com/
The above is an older picture of my honey of a granddaughter helping her mommy cook with her RED shirt. I love her intense expression. She is pictured in the header--hasn't she grown!
The above was my childhood monkey who now resides at my brothers home in CA. I think the socks were made a bit differently back then with more white for the head area. Plus the red for the mouth was a different shape too.
What is this?????
It is a lentil Dahl soup that is so good because of the spices and coconut milk in it. My hubby loved this vegetarian dish. I cooked it this week and it is red!! The recipe is here: http://nannykimsrecipes.blogspot.com/2010/06/dal-soup-so-yummy.html

Have a great rednesday!

Rednesday Wednesday

2010-06-08T14:31:00.009-04:00

It is rednesday and time to share your reds. Now that the Hot weather is here I have to have a supply of iced tea on hand. I love this smaller container (1/2 gallon) because the tea stays fresher than when I have a huge one. I am the main drinker!

OOOPs, an asperin bottle is showing! I am just getting over a cold .

Ok , one of you Rednesday gals showed this number last week and I DID find it at my Walmart ( in the 4th of July section!) The thing I liked about it, other than making my laundry much happier! is that it was NOT MADE IN CHINA!! Nope.....it was made in Israel--surprise, surprise.

Have a great Rednesday! Go here to see other participants: http://www.suelovescherries.blogspot.com/

Tablescape Tuesday

2010-06-07T16:46:00.011-04:00

Wellllllllll, it is Tablescape Tuesday at Marty's!! I had to share my not so spiffy cornerscape. Really this is just an excuse to show this little 60 year old sock doll I got from Ebay this week. I love sock monkeys and I have a sock monkey blog (http://monkeybusiness-nannykim.blogspot.com/ so I love anything socky

I happened to see this Sock girl doll on Ebay .. YES she is a GIRL--she has a SKIRT.

She was so sweet and different. I hadn't seen a sock used quite like this. When I was little I had a similar one but I liked how this one was made & wanted her to come home to me.

Ok...I know I will have to work on this area of the display--but time was limited for this post!! I'll work on it!

Making your home sing!

2010-06-07T10:47:00.008-04:00

It is the day for making your home sing. Click the picture to find others participating in this!

I have a cold and am not feeling up to par! BUT I had this challenge to make my home sing or some such thing! I decided to hang some sheets and towels out in the Fresh SUNSHINE. I like the way it makes them smell.
Plus it makes me, myself and I very happy to stand in the warm sun with a light breeze a blowin!
I like having on my fish sundress and barefeet in the warm grass as I do this. This makes me sing at least!! EVEN when I have a cold. There is something about a quiet, sunny, breezey,warm morning (ha! what a sentence)and slowly hanging things one at a time on the line. It is sooooooothing.

Also some splashes of flowers make me happy--flowers in the house and outside. Have a singing monday everyone!

Pink Saturday

2010-06-03T21:56:00.011-04:00

Well it is about time for Beverly's Pink Saturday.....so I put on some bright pinks! I know, I know you want to see the head!
Ha, did I surprise you or what??? This would be good for Sheila's Mirror diva thingy, eh?
When I got back from vacation my Sweet Potatoes had sprouted!! Yikers--I left them in a hot place!
My hydrangeas were great!
My yard was in bloooooooooooooooom.
Happy Pink Saturday to ya'll.!!!

Rednesday

2010-06-02T11:10:00.010-04:00

It is rednesday here http://suelovescherries.blogspot.com/ It is also ruby Tuesday here
I have a very special post for today!! The above 3 flowers were sent to me by my daughter!! They symbolize something special (note -they are red)

My two grandkids above know the secret!! THERE are 2 of them and there are 3 roses---can you guess what this means?????

Yup a new grandbaby is on the way!! I am so excited and it was a surprise for all. Ps. notice the red nail polish and red bricks!

Below: Minkey and Zephir are also very happy about this new baby !!

It is Metamorphosis Monday

2010-06-01T08:59:00.011-04:00

I believe it is met Monday at Susan's. Go here to see other transformations. So this is a little transformation of my laundry room. Hi, I am Minkey the sock monkey! I know you all have been seeing quite a bit of me, but get over it. I have kindof invaded Nannykim's blogs! But I am such a darling, you all should love it!

This is me reading in the laundry room. Nannykim does not have a porch so she made her laundry room into a SORTOF porch! It is attached to her home in the carport area. It has become a favorite spot for reading, napping and ice tea!

Here are a few of her favorite things--a puzzle picture of the swamps (we have a lot around here--and they have their own beauty), polished rocks in a jar from a lake near an old family cabin in Montana, and an old tube radio which still works!!(with a loud hum)

We installed a special screen that retracts into a frame. This is great if you want a screen on a doorway. This doorway gives us a view to the carport/backyard area. We have some wonderful wind chimes that actually sound like church bells---deep mellow tones!!

This even accommodates naps!! YUP! Nannykim can actually curl up on a Sunday afternoon and sleep on this chair---hard to believe but it is quite comfy and works!!!

Ooooops, we just got home from vacation and the mail delivery box is sitting there and the hose!! AH well----we have the washer and dryer behind hanging curtains--so this has become our little porch area!! Have a good metro Monday!

Ps. If you haven't read the New York Bestseller, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Shaffer and Barrows, PLEASE put it on your summer reading list. My daughter gave it to me and I thought, "WHAT?" But it is a delightful book and involves Guernsey Island in the English channel and takes place right after World War II. It is enteresting, funny, romantic and a delight!!!

Another Pink Saturday (in Charleston area)

2010-05-28T13:19:00.035-04:00

I believe it is the second year anniversary at Beverly's Pink Saturday!!!!!

It is a special Pink Saturday at Beverly's this week. Since we are in the Charleston area on a brief vacation I decided to show touches of pink in the area. Below--cottage on Sullivan's Island.
I am Minkey, of course ,and I love the Shem Creek area--the trees are grand
I had time for a zip line ride in the backyard.
Beach fun with Zephir too---My excuse for showing these photos is my pink in my hat and necklace of course!

Pink skies on the Creek

Fort Sumter is behind us in the above picture--where the civil war began.
The College of Charleston has its own pinks.
The shutters above were more pink than this photo showed!
A sorority house below
Pink kniting shop above

Magnolias--a wonderful place to have lunch in Charleston--waiters in fancy clothes.....
Espresso for me and Zephir!
I loved this colorful pink in the shop above. Notice the contrast with the green umbrella--we hit a downpour and Nannykim had to RUN IN THE RAIN BAREFOOT ON KING STREET!! She got soaked, but us monkeys faired better in the back pack!

Just had to sneak another picture of us in here.

The house above is selling for 1,999,999 dollars!! Yup almost 2 million--this is not a cheap part of town!

Adios and a happy pink celebration at Beverly's

Whats up?

2010-05-24T16:54:00.010-04:00

What's up here?

If you can't guess what is going on then go here: http://monkeybusiness-nannykim.blogspot.com/

pink saturday

2010-05-21T19:21:00.009-04:00

Pull up your coffee cups my dears!! It is pink SaturdayAt Beverly's --click on the blue here at how sweet the sound. I , of course, am Minkey. I do have my own blog at http://monkeybusiness-nannykim.blogspot.com/ But I like to invade nannykim's space. I am here for Pink Saturday. Notice my lovely earrings, necklace and skirt....all with pink.

I am quite excited since this is my frist Pink Saturday.

Zephir and I are getting ready for something special .....we will post about this soon on our own blog.

Notice , I have donned Annebelle's summery apron outfit for where I will be going soon!!

Zephir and I are awaiting some romance and fun!! Have a great pink Saturday ya'll.

I leave you with a pic of my BESTEST pink friend who sits atop me!

It is Pink Saturday here

Rednesday Wednesday

2010-05-19T09:24:00.007-04:00

It is Rednesday here: http://suelovescherries.blogspot.com/2010/05/rednesday_18.html So I am sharing a few glimpses of red. Below is an old tray with red bakelite (sp?) handles--I love it and it speaks to me! We use this a lot.

The boxes above just speak happiness to me.

The red and white table above is in my kitchen. I have moved the paper towel since I took this pic last week! I have a basket there and on top of the microwave now. That tray is no longer there---always moving things ;-)

I love the soft patina of worn old books. These are some books from childhood and most are classics. They have a very soft red, some are blue and some green. Have a blessed day!

Teacup Tuesday and what not

2010-05-18T12:10:00.010-04:00

It is tea cup Tuesday here: http://www.marthasfavorites.com/2010/05/tea-cup-tuesday-no-12.html Quite a while back I purchased these cups below from Rosanna, in Seattle Wa. I took this pic with my webcam camera so beware!

They arrived in this nifty box!

Now they sit atop my mantel area here:

I love these cups because they are dishwasher safe and microwavable (not that I have a dishwasher!)

I also like them because they are super colorful and hold a lot!

So I am sharing these for Tea cup Tuesday. Also, a blogger somewhere told us about the book below and I have found it to be lots of fun!

One thing she mentioned is that if you have old plates that you are afraid of eating off of---perhaps you don't want to damage them or you are afraid of lead..........

Then you can place a glass plate on top and still see the plate underneath! I have seen people use this for paper plates, but hadn't thought about using it on top of real plates. I like this---then I don't have to fear the lead content!

Squirrely

2010-05-17T11:05:00.002-04:00

This guy hopped right into my feeder! He is having a feast of the last sunflower seeds!

A break down week

2010-05-13T12:03:00.009-04:00

Well it has been a breakdown week here at the ole cottage. But first, let me say that there are some pretty simple things that bring soothing pleasure! The above bowls are a case in point. These speak to me! The pureness of their white color.....the smoothness of their feel.....their shinyness.....their oldness!!!>.....These are bowls that go to an old mixer (which still works). I grew up with these in our cabin in Vermont. I like to leave these on my counter--they just bring me a contented feel and they are the right size for most things I need them for.......Don't you love using old things with memories!!

This above picture I found in a book that Marty , I believe, told us about. The book is the Art of Accessorizing and I got it very cheaply from a second hand bookstore on Amazon. They are available for 5 bucks (hmmm, do you use the term bucks where you live?).

Anyways, this old round table speaks to me and the old chairs too! I love the little hutch with the rounded glass door and the old light fixture hanging above is a nice touch. The tea pot, the vase and the soft colors are so soothing and happy. I would love to transform one of my dining areas into this....once my son gets a job and has a place of his own and moves some of this furniture!!!

Break downs---do you have weeks where several things just stop working? My brake light started dinging loudly and flashing---I am talking about the thing on the dash area that lights up when something needs fixing. I was so thankful that it went off just as I was driving by the dealer! I drove in and showed him and he told me to come back in an hour. (It took 3 hours to get it fixed and it was just a wire that was shorting....possible due to a coin!!) .

Then this morning I was up early and decided to do an early morning wash! When it came time to do the drying......well the belt had broken! Thankfully I have a clothesline!! AND it was sunny.

Then of course I had to have multiples (and more than one trip) on the mamogram experience because the machine had compressed things together and it looked like a cancer spot. But thankfully all of that proved fine.

All of this after reading the reminder from a study in Esther that God controls even the little details. It is more fun when he does this:
http://nannykim-nannykim.blogspot.com/2010/05/one-beautiful-true-mothers-day-story.html

A VERY WILD MONKEY DAY HERE.....YIKERS

2010-05-07T11:36:00.006-04:00

IT ALL STARTED WHEN NANNYKIM DISCOVERED THE ABOVE SONG!!! SHE GOT CARRIED AWAY DANCING AND REJOICING IN THE DAY THAT WAS BEFORE HER. MINKEY DECIDED IT WAS HER CHANCE TO TAKE OVER THE MONEY BLOG HERE: http://monkeybusiness-nannykim.blogspot.com/

ALDIE MAN'S MONKEY IS IN A STATE OF SHOCK

AND MINKEY????

I BELIEVE SHE IS GLOATING--FOR MORE ON THIS BREAKING NEWS---AND TO GET FIRST HAND INFO.....GO HERE http://monkeybusiness-nannykim.blogspot.com

Table Top Tuesday

2010-05-04T12:51:00.006-04:00

It is Table Top Tuesday at Marty's. I am a bit late, but it is still Tuesday, ya'll. This tablescape is found in Charleston , Sc. After walking along the battery , We entered into this cool old home through the doorway below:

Climbing a flight of stairs we entered a darling apartment (a friend's) and this is how her living room mantel was decorated:

I loved its simplicity and I loved the ironwork thing above since it is so similar to the gates in Chareston. I love how the pears play off of the color in the rug too. I thought it was simple and striking!

My birthday GET AWAY!

2010-05-03T20:04:00.020-04:00

It is tea time at Lady Katherine's So I thought I would use this for her party. Beware--The tea in this post comes near the end!

For my birthday in April I treated myself to a visit to my grand kids up in NC. Below is Alden (Aldie-man) when he was up from his nap and just laying out in his Mom's arms. It is about the only time he slows down!! I love how kids are cuddly at this time of day! The kiddies and my daughter put on a little birthday party for me!

No elaborate setting!! AND of course we had tacos since the kids love them and they are great with black beans (and gluten free for me!)

Now ALdie/man loves sour cream on his, as you can see.
Below Rhianwen is bringing me her handmade card--I love these--I am using this one as a book marker.

Below my daughter is trying to get a picture and bringing the gluten free Mandarin orange cake-at the same time!-it was wonderful!! Below Aldie man is serving up the tea!
He will make someone a good hubby!!
Rhianwen loves her tea too and whenever I come we usually have some together.

There is such a blessing in spending a birthday with my grand kids and daughter!! My hubby was not here because he was working and so was my daughter's hubby---but actually it was great to have time alone with my daughter and kids!

Fragrance!

2010-05-01T16:12:00.003-04:00

Confederate Jessamine (spelling?????) has such a perfume like smell. I just love it!!! It is right next to our outdoor sitting area and provides seclusion/privacy and aroma therapy in May!

Mosquito free at last

2010-04-30T13:22:00.005-04:00

We have a big problem with mosquitoes here in the South. Hubby and I love to sit out in the warm weather to eat and read. I finally found an umbrella screen that fits over standard umbrellas. I found this at www.lakeside.com
Above you see the bottom which has a tube insert that you fill with water. This holds it down.
Now we can sit out any time with no pests. However, I will be curious to see how it holds up....especially the zipper you need to use to get in and out. Also it would have been much better if it was in a dark green or black. ....I feel like I am inside of a bridal vale or veil or however you spell it!!

Another Table Top Tuesday?

2010-04-27T15:44:00.005-04:00

Table Top Tuesday at Marty's so as usual I am late!!! I am calling this a tabletop! Don't ya just love to cheat (it is NOT a table is it)?? This rooster and canister set is on top of my kitchen window. It makes me smile with its cheerfulness.
He is an old antique. Makes me think of the movie that I think was called Rock a doodle or something like that?????
This is not the view out of that window--but out of my downstairs window--so much flowering going on. In the very back you can see my wild flowers just starting to bloom!! Such a nice time of the year , but nooooooooooot for alergies!! Can't win, can I??

Marty's Table Top Tuesday

2010-04-19T13:53:00.009-04:00

It is or will be Marty's table top Tuesday and you can to her site here to view more. The above table top is of my hubby's feet! He said, "You're not putting this on your blog?!" of course I said I would......I keep telling him there are better places to put your feet! This post is good for rednesday here too.
But since he brought me the above flowers, how can I care about feet on tables?
You just have to be cheerful with these flowers.
They are so smashingly bright that they make me smile!
I love old gray shells--love their textures.
I love broken ones too, with their shiny insides!
I also love old worn broken ones.

So these are my rather weird table tops for today. Have a blessed week ya'll.

Another Thankful Thursday and I am LATE ;-)

2010-04-16T07:06:00.005-04:00

It was Thankful Thursday yesterday at Rhondi's here and I am late posting this. BUT here goes. Better late than never. Things I am thankful for:

Talking with gramps in the warm courtyard listening to his stories of the past
Sesame rice crackers
postage stamps (all different kinds)
Looking forward to my birthday
My daughter's blog
Quiet evenings
Quietness
Small old towns
Gluten free toast
Finding violets by the ditch
Dogwoods in bloom
Fragrance of wisteria (and their color!)
Early morning walks
Old sweatshirts
Earl Grey Latte
Raspberry, blueberry, strawberry fruit shakes in my blue glasses
Vegan pasta dishes
Japanese calendar
olive soap
My sock monkey PJ's
Rubber bands
Items with dragonflies on them
My exuberant grand kids
Jumping for joy
Sunglasses
Toast topped with hummus, cucumbers and parsley
Pink tops
Oatmeal with cinnamon and strawberries
Junior books
Old enamel tables

Playing around/moving/ pictures I won

2010-04-10T13:05:00.012-04:00

It is Table top Tuesday at Marty's so I thought I would link this post to her event since Marty said the hutch section could be used for this) . Go here to see others.

I won these three pictures (above)from Michelle Morelan at her blog here (http://schematiclife.blogspot.com/She is an interior designer and an artist. She sells large paintings on etsy. You can see them on the side of her blog.)They are three little sea scapes. I only live about 20 minutes from the beach so I was excited to win them.

I am not sure if I will frame them since I like a bare look.

I am still playing around with them, but I think I prefer the 3 paintings together with the wreath on the door.....

I have tried one on my bookcase (above) and I wish I could leave it there, but I do think I like the 3 together .

I also decided to move some blue and white plates into my corner shelving. The problem with this corner hutch is that the size between the shelves varies. So you can not place the same sized plates on all of the shelves. Also the back part is narrow and will only fit small plates in the slots. So I sometimes get a top heavy look, sigh, but it is the only way to fit these plates which I love.

These plates make me happy.

And for a first time I moved my piano to a new location! WOW!! REally moving things here!! Ps. I am still playing with the dining room. My hubby says he never has to worry if he doesn't like something because soon it will change!

Another Thankful Thursday

2010-04-07T09:38:00.010-04:00

It is another Thankful Thursday--or it will be......

It will be Thankful Thursday at Rhondi's here. Actually she may be on a blogging break!!! Here are some things I have been thankful for the last 2 weeks:

handmade pottery mugs

spiced chai

soft Spanish guitar music

lace curtains

pink with green

old photos

black olives

comfy PJ's

the feel of pottery

feeling better after taking a decongestant

devotional books

study Bibles

the soft patina of worn rugs

cinnamon in my coffee

the smell of women's perfume as they walk by

old mystery books

hanging pots of flowers

ironing done

flip/flop weather

old greeting cards from the 50's

Beth Moore Bible Studies

hand drawn pictures by my granddaughter

having a lazy morning/going slowly

eating out for a birthday celebration

seeing God working in other lives

mending of relationships

God's grace for brokenness

kids joyously riding bikes and skateboards on our street

stirring the pudding while listening to David Nevue

Easter celebrations at church

pipe organ played loudly

snuggling

using hand crocheted blankets

cat meowing in the morning or attention

home made soup and fresh herbs

the wonder of new Spring growth

white shells
BBC movies

cold cucumbers

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-24T18:32:00.007-04:00

VIEW of the Bradford out my bathroom window!

It is Thankful Thursday or it will be! at Rhondi's

Here are things I am thankful for this week:

warm worn wooden rockers
Spring wind making wind chimes dance
soaking up sunshine and warmth
yellow pansies
breakfast for supper
real maple syrup on hot crisp waffles
Boot's paw on my shoulder
a book and wine with a bath
crunchy raw cauliflower
interesting people waiting in line at the PO
Philtrum: the indention between nose and upper lip
waiting for the last leaves to fall in March!
a hot fire to warm the cool Spiring night
freshly laundered sheets
piles of empty sunflower seed shells under the bird feeders
the church choir in lenten black
herb garden
freshly sliced apples
veggie tray with garlic hummus
switching the feeders and hanging flowers causing squirrels to be confused
walking on an empty beach on Sunday morning after early service
having a surprise visit
video conferencing with son
fellowshipping one on one with a friend and praying together
going to early morning church service
watching a funny old Fred Astaire movie
hearing my younger son chuckle and being silly with a friend
running into an old friend
using a new rake with no tines missing!
having a foot massage by hubby
eating a good vegetable cabbage soup
baked home"fires" with salt and pepper and paprika
peppermint patties
reading a good book with feet propped up
the gray color of worn shells
the weirdness of clocks springing ahead one hour and the adjustment!
morning sunlight
listening to grandpa tell about his life
changing tablecloths
sharing spiritual things

Redbud blossoms are so nice

2010-03-22T15:32:00.011-04:00

Soft colors!! For tabletop tuesday----

I love the little jars with the little blue bird, dragonfly and flower. They even have sayings on the inside of the jars.

I just picked these branches from my redbud tree for my bathroom . There is something so soothing about lavendar and gray! I do not really care for the redbud tree itself, however!! It is so pretty right now, but I really do not like the leaves it produces.

I think I will use this for Marty's Tabletop Tuesdays here: http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/

What speaks of home

2010-03-13T16:56:00.004-05:00

Old books and teapots just speak "Home" to me. I decided to arrange my teapots above my tv.

My 15 year old Bisop Boots (cat) speaks this as well. He is undertheweather (yup, one word) due to his rabbies shot yesterday.....pooooooor booooooty

Thankful Thursday

2010-03-11T10:06:00.004-05:00

It is Thankful Thursday at Rhondi's .

Things I am thankful for this week:

I am thankful for the beauty of life. My MIL died on Feb 24 (plus the deaths of 2 others in my church family recently) and it reminds me of the gift of life and how thankful for the moments to spend with loved ones.

For the soft dewy rainy mornings
For the bright yellow daffodils
For quiet walks with my hubby
For the friendliness of a small town
For the exuberance of a neighbor on the renovations on her old home
For the blessing of Church family--meeting them through-out the day at stores, walks, visits
For time spent with my son who will be leaving for more military training next week
For vegan recipes ;-)
For reflective times with tea
For the playfulness of my old cat (a second childhood?)
For hot baths to soothe old bones
Belly laughter

Things I love

2010-03-09T10:58:00.007-05:00

In my devotional time this morning I read something by Charles Swindoll. He was quoting a doctor named Sir William Osler. Here is the quote:

"No man is really happy or safe without a hobby, and it makes precious little difference what the outside interest may be--botany beetles or butterflies; roses, tulips irises;; fishing, mountaineering or antiques--anything will do as long as he straddles a hobby and rides it hard."

I think this is very true. I also think that is why many of us blog. It provides an easily accessible social network of sharing hobbies, sharing things held in common. Changing my rooms can be a hobby for me. For some reason, if I am sad, I just have to do a little changing up to provide a break and some satisfying kind of joy---weird as that might be.

On the table above I have a tray with some of my favorite photos from my walks about town. So much pleasure is taken just by looking at these. Shells sooooo speak to me--their softly washed beauty and hues. The warmth of candles--all are touches that make me smile inside.

Flowers in their brilliant contrasting shade to the world about them!

The pleasures of an herb garden (in back ground---) -some herbs have made it through the winter.

The peaking out of bright pansies
Rosemary and toads awaiting at my doorway (below)

AND a softly crumpled lived-in area in the sunshine.

As Swindoll says, "Diversions are as essential to our health and personal developement as schools are to our education, or as food is to our nourishment. And it's funny--you can always tell when it's time to shift gears and change hats. The frown gets deeper...the inner spirit gets irritable...the jaw gets set... the mind gets fatigued--these are God's signals to you that say, 'Don't abort, divert! Don't cave in, get away! Don't crumble, create!' The saddest believers I know--those most bored, most lonely, most miserable, most filled with self-pity--are those who have never developed interests ourside of the realm of their work.
The only vision they possess is tunnel vision, the most significant thing they've ever created is an ulcer, the only thing they can discuss in depth is their old nine-to-five routine."

I think this is true. Our minds, and our bodies need a break at times---a rest. Sometimes it really helps to focus on something creative.

Ps. I am using this post for Tabletop Tuesday at Marty's --check here for more:http://astrollthrulife.blogspot.com/2010/03/3rd-table-top-tuesday-spring-into.html

Moving furniture and rugs

2010-03-06T09:40:00.006-05:00

Well, we decided to move the blue and green rug down from the bedroom to tie in with the throw over our yucky sofas. There was just too much busy-ness going on with the previous rug and throw---scroll down on the blog and you might see this here: http://spindlecottage.blogspot.com/2010/01/lightening-things-up.html However that post doesn't show the mix of the big rug with it very well. There was too much going on. However the striped version on the sofa does not make me as happy as the green flowered version so I may have to play some more.

We also centered the table in the dining area that adjoins this room. The table is now centered under the ceiling light and centered with the shelving. The problem with this dining area is that the floor slants BIG TIME to the right of the picture. When you put the table the other way it slants toward the right down hill. This way the table is much more level.

My MIL's death

2010-03-04T09:40:00.003-05:00

My MIL died this past week; Feb 24 at 4 in the morning.

We were prepared for this , but it is still hard because we miss her and have so many memories of our times together. She is pictured here in the wheel chair with my daughter, myself, and my granddaughter. She was enjoyable even in the latter stages of Alzheimer's --she kept her humor and twinkle in her eye. She never lost her love for chocolate either. The picture on the header which will be there for a bit is taken near her old homestead where we loved to walk. In the pic are my two boys.

MIL dying

2010-02-22T18:39:00.001-05:00

My MIL is dying ; I am taking a break.

Valentine's weekend in Charleston

2010-02-16T15:03:00.007-05:00

We had a wonderful Valentine's Day weekend getaway in the Charleston, SC area. Here are a few pics--I will be posting more about it later.

Ps. Don't ever let your hubby buy over 20 roasted garlic cloves from Whole Food Market and never let him eat them all at dinner time on Valentine's DAY---NOT ROMANTIC!!!!!!!

I have been away in Charleston for Valentine's Day weekend

2010-02-16T14:45:00.003-05:00

I have been away so I will have to get caught up on blogging at some point. I had a wonderful time in Charleston, SC, Mount Pleasant, and Georgetown. I will post more at a later date. BUT one observation on How to RUIN VALENTINE's DAY : do not let your hubby buy over 20 roasted garlic cloves from Whole Foods Market and do not let him eat them!! hooooweee--bad, very bad!! other than that we had a great weekend.

Snow on the SC coast at last in time for the olympics!

2010-02-13T07:52:00.004-05:00

Proof

So glad we got a bit of the white stuff!!

critters are eating my patio umbrella!!!

2010-02-09T20:11:00.005-05:00

I posted about this on my nannykim blog , but had to add it here. Since it does relate to my home. I was shocked to find that some critters have been tearing up my patio umbrella!! I hope it is one of the 8 squirrels that hang out in my yard!! and NOT a rat!! YIKERS. Glad it is an old umbrella that needs replacing!!

Old Clock

2010-02-08T11:58:00.002-05:00

I love this old clock. The glass fell out of it and I can't get it back in....But it still runs. This either belonged to my Grandfather who lived to be 102 and a half! (He died back in the early 80's so I don't know how old the clock is) or it belonged to my Great Aunt. I am not sure which one owned it. ANYways it still works.!! I love the mellow tick tock of an old clock and of course the chimes.

I have placed it on my Mantel where it seems to like it better than the bookcase area where I have had it. The interesting thing is it has its desires ---ha!! Probably it does better here because it is a bit more level!!

Got to love it

2010-02-06T16:33:00.002-05:00

I love these really big bowls. They must hold about 4 cups!! They are by Corelle. I love this because I can microwave it and it doesn't overflow. Plus, after all, they are red and white....one of my favs.

What grannies do to escape the winter blues

2010-01-31T18:03:00.013-05:00

When one is blue what does one dooooooooo? Visit Grands and Move furniture too!

Russians??? or Tea parties are what are fun!

Paper dolls too really go far when you are blue!

Moving furniture to be a bit cozier (but taking pics at night will not dooooooo!)

Discovering a table is really a wine rack

Placing candles and mirrors in a fireplace that was gas unattainable!

Moving books for a cozier feel

All of these make one 's blues go away very quickly too!!

Winter escape

2010-01-24T12:42:00.003-05:00

I am escaping the winter blues (ha) to visit with my too grands!

So much fun playing with them. (I let my daughter handle the messes and I get to enjoy the fun!)

Lightening things up

2010-01-19T14:05:00.012-05:00

Well we have had some warmer temps here in SC. It has been delightful in the mid to upper 60's here this week. I decided to take out some of my red colors (some --not all). Here is the after picture in my sun room

Here is the before picture. (I do have some pretty ugly couches, but they are sleeper sofas that come in handy. When we retire and move THEN we may think of replacements!

Here is the other side of the room

I also moved and organized one of my hutches. I placed all of the blueware in the top part (with a tiny bit of other stuff)

This gave it a much neater appearance. All of my other sets I placed below behind the closed doors which I did not picture here.

Below is where I moved the hutch (we have two rooms used for dining).

I also moved the furniture around in my dining area (this area previously had the big table against this wall below and I moved the round one here.

Below is the big table now facing the windows for our enjoyment. Note--this table below has the same tablecloth as on my table in the other room. I love the colors and have two!

In cleaning a closet , I came across my old phone. We grew up with this --I believe we have had it since the 50's. (It still was working when we used to have a land line a few years ago). Notice the telephone number! It always makes me think of the movie, Dial M for Murder !

I have not been blogging much lately--I have been enjoying moving things and changing things up and have been doing lots of reading of books (not blogs)....I am slowing down !

2010-01-08T12:28:00.004-05:00

I moved my furniture again. I just have to do it after Christmas. I have kept the warm reds because I need a lot of cheery colors. Some day I would like to go with softer colors and less clutter!

Below are two before pictures. There were too many things in the area and I wanted to simplify it a little and I wanted a more comfy area to read in the sun!

So below is another view of the after picture. I also placed a little ledge for the cat in front of the window. I like sitting at both areas-- the above seating and the below seating area. I just needed some change.

renovations by the grands

2010-01-06T20:32:00.001-05:00

Things at spindle cottage will never be the same ;-)

The adults were in another room enjoying dinner on New Year's Day. I decided we needed to check the kiddies out and discovered why they were so quiet. They got into the cupboard and had tons of fun!!

Breaking at holiday time

2009-12-23T09:21:00.003-05:00

I probably won't be blogging too much this week--I am busy as you all are with the holidays coming up! I have been having lots of fun with my Grandkids (as I posted on my regular nannykim blog. Here is a clip that shares a bit of the fun I have been having.--and blessings on you and yours!)

Christmas readiness in the decore area

2009-12-09T15:49:00.040-05:00

You may wonder what these two guys are smiling about (other than the fact that they found a way to get their feet warmed!). They are smiling because as the song says, "Christmas time is here" (or at least near) . Rhoda at Southern Hospitality is having a Christmas home tour thingy on December 10. Go there to check out the fun.

In the meantime--look below:

I love wreaths hanging on windows! I love how it looks from the inside of the room looking out! It just makes me happy! Oops-in the above picture the window is open--that is why it looks a bit strange. It was 74 degrees today (December 9, 09 ). Now then, two windows in the same room with wreaths....well....makes me double happy. (Notice the red and white advent candle in the picture below)

The picture above makes me happy because it is of Mole and Ratty at Christmas time (from the Wind and the Willows)

Of course if you add snowflakes to the scene my happiness spills more and more ....

The above is a different kind of tree in the shape of a cross.

Touches of gold and red

I love how one ornament can reflect an entire room--see picture below:

Above are antique ornaments I had as a child.

The spread is reversible and we use it on the other side most of the year ;-)

Hope you enjoyed seeing some of the Christmas fun at Spindle Cottage ;-)

AND (I am adding this a bit late) an important fashion quote this week from my granddaughter--"Princes don't wear pacifiers" this was directed at her 1 year old bro ;-)

My granddaughter in the glow!

snowmen from socks/ quick and easy!

2009-12-03T22:42:00.012-05:00

These cute snowmen above are found in this book that I WON below! This post is for metomorphosis Monday at Susan's.

I won this book from another Kim at http://cheapchichome.blogspot.com/ -check her blog out. I started to glance through it and when I saw these snowmen I had to do it!! I got the book this week!!! Thanks so much Kim!! It has the four seasons and gives creative ideas and recipes for each of them.
Here is my quick attempt below.

I accidently made a dimple in his chin!! I think the scarf was in the way when I was painting on the face!! AH well--

Here is what you do. You get a white sock. You fill it with navy beans or rice (or whatever dry bean you might have.) You tie it off wherever you desire. They said to use elastic but I used a white pipe cleaner and after I tied it I used the ends for his arms and hands.

Then you fill the next section for the head and tie it off. I left a bit of sock at the top and just folded it down for the hat (since I didn't have any miniture hats hanging about).

Then you just paint on the face and paint whatever you want. Or you can glue buttons or ribbons or WHATEVER!!

FUN!!!!

A very fun Tablescape for Thursday

2009-12-01T19:02:00.007-05:00

On Thursdays Susan has a Tablescape Thursday. I wanted to have some fun with this and I had a good laugh with my grandkids right before Thanksgiving as we were leaving for a Seattle trip. I thought this was a very humorous tablescape.

I just had to laugh at my granddaughter with her English teacup AND a sippy cup---how funny is that./?? I think it was peppermint tea. She was having finger toast and granola with this. (Notice the dainty position of the fingers)

Look at her concentration!! She wears this hat a lot(as in every day)
--ever since she fell in love with the Mary Poppins movie. She goes around singing Chim chiminey (spellin???) and she pretends she is Burt and her mom is Mary P.

Above is her Daddy and brother. Notice the turkey on the wall. They keep adding feathers at each meal as they record what they are thankful for on a feather. It is quite humorous to read what some of the things are!

This may be a strange tablescape, but I love it!!

Starting to decorate.....

2009-12-01T18:24:00.003-05:00

I am just starting to et into the decorating for Christmas thing---nice time of the year. I even enjoyed a wonderful Christmas concert on Sunday. Music really speaks to the heart and lifts one into the area of worship.

back from Seattle

2009-11-29T20:41:00.011-05:00

Well, I am back from my Seattle area visit to my son and I must say that I saw some interesting and beautiful sites. Here is a very tiny sampling:
Above--jousting in a gas-pipe park
Above:--houseboats on the lake

A German type town called Leavenworth

Some Trees

Looking foward to visiting blogs!! soon!

seattle vacation

2009-11-24T14:42:00.000-05:00

I am on vacation for a bit--in the beautiful ,wet, world of Seattle.

getting ready for Tablescape Thursday

2009-11-17T14:35:00.016-05:00

Getting ready for tablescape Thursday with Susan (click on her name on Thursday to see others who are displaying much more marvelous tablescapes!) . I could have done the above scape.

Do you all know what the above thing is???? Down here in the South we call it a popcorn tree or Chinese Tallow. It turns a beautiful yellow and orange in the Fall and produces these popcorn looking things. Unfortunately it can spread like wildfire!

I could have used my December cup in anticipation of what is coming!! I could have used a nice old vintage napkin and doiley too.

Notice the old glass bottle says snow on it. I got it back in the 70's when I drank milk from it in Japan. The other side is written in Japanese. I thought snow was kind of cool for holding something that was white like snow.

But, naw (translation= nope=no), I was watching a Clemson football game this Saturday instead. ..AND AND I don't mind saying that they slaughtered North Carolina!! But I want to say that I love this teapot. I got it last year from QVC. The only negitive is that you can't put boiling water in it. It has to be 200 degrees or less. I have gotten used to that......AND the tea cup from Rosanna's had become one of my favorites. HOWEVER I chipped it!! I dropped another cup on it yesterday!! I can turn it around and sip from the other side , I guess.

Bishop Boots , the cat, was watching me , watching Clemson. (Oh, of course I was doing a little bit of blogging--multi-tasking , ya know?) Oh and did I say, it is peppermint tea?)

What I love about this teapot is the insert it has for loose tea (below)

All in all it was a splendid day.

And my roses are in agreement ;-)

met monday-creating snowflakes

2009-11-15T17:17:00.009-05:00

I love snowflakes and I found a site that lets you print out the design. It has a bunch of different ones --more than what I have done! You print them out and it gives you the fold lines and the cut lines. I was just going to try one , BUT it was toooooooooo much fun. There is something so magical about the transformation of a folded piece of paper into a neato design!! I had to do more and this was late at night. I am feeling a bit like a kid again!!! ANY ways go here to get the free print outs-JUst click on the word here and it brings you to the site Or (http://quackshack.blogspot.com/2008/11/avalanche.html

--this would be fun on windows, trees, tablescapes etc.......and if you have more ideas let me know!!!

For other creative ideas and transformation join others at Susan's on Monday! (my post is about transforming paper to snowflakes so I think it is ok, but I didn't take a before pic)

Tablescape Thursday

2009-11-10T16:50:00.015-05:00

IT will be tablescape Thursday at Susan's On Thursday so go there to see some smashing ones!! I failed to take many pics of my set table and it was only partially set!!! GETTING old age syndrome!!

In the picture below you can see I have moved the round table to the fireplace area instead of the rectangular one---round is more cozy. I have added my pink cups to the tea cup shelf instead of just the blue ones. (oh forgive my spelling--if I do the check it messes up my pics). I threw on a different red table topper and I moved my wicker chairs up here. NOTE: THESE PICS DIDN'T SHOW TOO WELL BECAUSE OF THE NIGHT TIME MIXING WITH THE COLORS.

Below is the same area with the blue checked table cloth--which looks better in the picture than the red, for some reason.

I put a red one on the bigger table in the area too. I can't make up my mind which ones I like better. I have tried red plaid stuff. I have tried a white on the rectanglar table and the blue and white check on the round---but for this time of the year it seemed a little cold.

Below is how it looks in the white:

But I think I will stick with the red for this time of the year. Anyone else want to put some in put? Hmm, may be I will try a white topper over red for the big table?

I love red and white---so a simple red and white and glass and silver thing going on here. I lost my fork somehow! We actually were celebrating something.

The stemware above was purchased by my hubby when he was in Venice, Italy. They are hand blown and we bring them out on holidays and any old time and on special occasions.

This is how the inside looks (above). We have 6 for white wine, 6 for red , and 6 champagne flutes (sp?). We had them shipped so he wouldn't have to carry them on the plane. But we had a time getting them from customs. The price he paid was supposed to include the customs charge....but we still had to pay. They all arrived safely.

This little beaded doiley above is from my college days back in the early 70's! I was dating a guy from Rhodesia and he brought it back from Africa for me. It is hand made.

So I know I should have done a more fancy table---but ah well. We were celebrating my youngest son's grade on a major test. He got an A---now the amazing thing about this is he flunked the course 3 other times with an average in the twenties!!! This one course kept him from getting his degree!!! He now commutes 5 hours round trip three times a week to do this course. His brother tutored him for a month this summer and now continues to give him help by webcam (since he lives in Seattle area and we live in SC) over the internet. We are now hopeful that he will graduate and also get his Lt commision(I can't spell!!).

So all in all we are celebrating his A average so far and hope for the future. (however he did have a speeding ticket--Ha!)

Needless to say, my son is the one on the left ;-)

AND last of all I decided to change the pic above the table for the wreath and add an underlying white cloth

Oops--left the picture in the chair!

Fall Flower Power

2009-11-10T12:58:00.007-05:00

Last night this was the view from my sofa. It is one of the reasons I love Fall. There are so many beautiful things blooming.

Below :The impatients are still going fairly strong--they need a bit of water.

Above : the carpet roses are trailing over the carport wall

Above: these were the berries in view from the bay window

ABOVE: the camelias are in full bloom (they were the ones seen from the window).

Above: a section of my wildflower mixed seed garden

And last of all the pink camelias---so much color!! I am thankful for all the colors and beauty!

Met Monday and sick

2009-11-08T14:18:00.011-05:00

Met Monday is coming up and I am posting this a bit early since I am not feeling well and don't know how I might be feeling later.

First of all, aren't all of you guys simply sick, sick, sick, of everyone telling you about their chalkboard making experiences????? I mean, really, how many ways and types of chalkboards do we need to see!!! It is as bad as the burlap take over or the painting cloths from Home Depot being transformed into curtains, sofa covers and etc.!!! WELL, I GOT SO SICK of it I had to DO something about it!! YUp....you know what is coming....I HAD to DO a CHALKBOARD. UGH....you say, not another one!! yup..it is spreading.......

I found my above calandar holder in a closet when I was cleaning this week and I painted the chalkboard paint on it which I found at Walmart.

It is in the kitchen.....yup, another kitchen blackboard! When will this conflagration ever stop!!

I wrote some
"family rules"--an idea which I got from another blogger--things I like to be reminded of daily (especially while washing dishes!)

Above is where I like to be when I am feeling under the weather as I am now (and not from the chalkboard!)

One more change I did this week is to put a different tablecloth on this and other tables and move some stuff around in this room . I am not going to show it all now.....But the CAT--Bishop Boots-- would not allow fake flowers on this table. He kept going up there!!! I think he would have learned that they were fakes, but he was probably smelling some real ones I had elsewhere. I gave up and put a teacup in its place---it looked better anyway. Perhaps Boots is a future decorator???

Yikes that sign was supposed to say expert not export! HA!! Fooled or fouled again!

Tablescape Thursday...coming up!

2009-11-04T20:12:00.004-05:00

OK-- so it is time for tablescape Thursday at Susan's. I can't remember what her rules are so if I am not obeying them....then it will be my Bad. This is not an eating tablescape....just a tablescape. I love bare branches and this branch fell off our oak tree and it has some acorns still attached and some mossy growth on it. So I put it in a green vase and it just gives me a neat feeling.

The above is how it looked before the cardinal landed.

I love cardinals and tonight my hubby and I enjoyed watching the sunset on the patio with a glass of red wine surrounded by a ton of cardinals at our 3 backyard feeders----such a nice Fall evening.

Moving things around

2009-11-03T19:45:00.001-05:00

I didn't take part in the usual met-monday because I have been busy moving china and tables etc. So hopefully next week I will join back in!?

Tablescape Thursday for October 29

2009-10-28T15:56:00.011-04:00

It is Tablescape Thursday at Susan's (or it will be later tonight Oct 28). SO BELOW --I decided to go for some cheerful reds this week (I love red!!) . I used my red goblets again. This time I used clear glass dishes so we could enjoy the fullness of the red plaid!! I love the glass dishes ---I love to see the tablecloth.

NOTE: in the pic above you can realize again why it is called spindle cottage. You can see some of them fore and aft and on the chairs. I also love the iron work in the corners of the doorway.

The napkins were from GW. The silverware is a very old set that used to belong to my mom.

I love Zinnias (spelling/??)--I have lots of them growing in my garden. I am so in love with their bright happy flowers. Next year I think I will fill one of my garden patches with them.

The vase was an old dark green glass one that I discovered lying about or is it laying ?? in my daughter's back yard--down not far from a creek. She said I could have it!!! I was so thrilled and spent a lot of time cleaning it!!

I love the apples in the silver bowl. I have kept this on the table this week---I love silver with the red.

Once last glance with the candle light. As I have said before this area in our house is one of our favorites for eating (when there are three of us) in the cooler weather. It is a cozy warm area.