Splashes of Joy

Florida..here we come!

2012-01-17T16:30:00.000-05:00

Soon we will be in Florida spending time with far away family and friends. It will be a nice vacation for us. We are really looking forward to seeing my son Jeremy, his wife Sabrina and the two grandboys, Colton and Braedon! It's been too long since we have seen them. SO excited! We will be going Disney World, of course!! We are spending one day at Disney~Magic Kingdom. Other then that, swimming, fishing, going to the park, shopping, all kinds of fun stuff! I am going to be taking so many pics and videos, I don't know what I will do with them all!

When we are in Orlando we will be able to see our friend Diane and her family, can't wait! Diane and I have been friends for nearly 30 years. I will get to meet her little grandsons for the first time!

I don't know how much online time I will have, but I hope to post at least once while we are away.

Take care & God bless

Lots of love

xoxo

It's a new year and lots going on

2012-01-11T18:22:00.000-05:00

I know..it's been a while since I have posted. Hope everyone's 2012 is off to a great start!
We are going to Florida this month to see our kids/grandsons who live down there! YAY! It's been way too long, 2 years since we have seen them. My parents are coming with us and Kelly will come for a few days. Of course we are taking them to Disney World~Magic Kingdom while we are there. We are very excited, looking forward to spending time with Jeremy, Sabrina, Colton and Braedon. :-)

When we are in Orlando (Disney), we will stay with my dear friend Diane, Diane and I have been friends for nearly 30 years. I lived in Florida years ago when the boys were little and Diane and I lived in the same neighborhood.

Below is a pic of Diane and me in 2010.This is at Dragon Lake, where Dan and I were on vacation. Diane came up from Florida to join us. It was a fun time.

Well, I must go for now. I am off to church to teach my class, Rainbows, ages 3-5.

I will catch up with you all soon.

much love

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T20:09:00.000-05:00

Dan is working tonight and Kelly is out with friends, so it's me and the doggies ringing in the New Year!

~Patch~

and Bentley

I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year's Eve!

Blessings for 2012

love,

Pam

Planning..

2011-12-30T08:29:00.000-05:00

Lots of plannning going on here. We are taking a trip to Florida in January!!! YAY! We finally will be able to spend time with my son Jeremy, daughter in law Sabrina and our two little grandsons! My parents are coming with us and Kelly is trying to get a couple days off work and fly down for a long weekend while we are there. We have rented a vacation house near Clearwater which will work out so much better (and cheaper) then a hotel. We are also going to Orlando to take the kids to Disney World~Magic Kingdom. We are just doing one day at Disney and boy am I having trouble finding inexpensive tickets. Oh well, it will still be so fun to take them there!

Thought I'd share these funny pics of Kelly & Patch on Christmas morning. She was trying to get him to pose in front of the Christmas tree. ha ha!

She calls him over there and he lays down..

She forces him to sit up and he is stiff as a board and won't look at me!!

We both got a good laugh out of it!

Took this pic the other day of the railing going upstairs.

I wish the lights in the garland would have showed up.

Dan has tonight off, so we are going out for the day with my parents and brother Tim and his wife Jen to check out some antiques stores. I think I've mentioned it before, but Tim and Jen have a large, historical home that they are making into a Bed and Breakfast. They are always on the look out for things to put in their house.

Happy Friday!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T12:20:00.000-05:00

Christmas has come and gone and it was a lovely time with family and friends.
Thursday, Dan and I went to The Toledo Zoo for the Lights Before Christmas.

We met up with our dear friends, Debbi & Steve there, after a long wait in traffic!

I thought the wait was worth it, not so sure about Dan, he was kind of stressed out by the time we walked through the Zoo's entrance gates. ;-)

Steve & Debbi

Dan & me

I took a lot more pics of the lights, but don't want to go overboard sharing them here!

We spent most of Christmas day/evening at my sister's house.

It was a time of family, fun and food! Of course I took tons of pics, here is a sample.

With three of my children. Randy, Kelly and Chris

Mom & me

I am wearing the sweater and scarf Kelly gave me for Christmas. :-)

Kelly & Brooklyn

Mom & Dad opening gifts

Chris & my brother Brian

My brother Ed & Randy

Dan & Kelly

Daddy & Daughter

Christmas morning, 2011

Dan had to work Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Dan, Kelly and I opened gifts when he came home from work Christmas morning. So I was able to get a few pics of him. Sadly he couldn't come with us to my sister's house Christmas afternoon/evening for the family festivities. We are hoping and praying Dan will be able to retire this spring. It will be so nice to have him be with us at all of the family functions.

Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas.

Love & Blessings

Christmas Decorations~part II

2011-12-17T17:26:00.000-05:00

Around the house~~

Coming into our little town~~

Can't believe Christmas is so close.

Be blessed!

Christmas Decorations

2011-12-14T23:05:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy day. This morning I went to my ladies bible study Christmas brunch. It was very nice. I took photos but haven't edited them yet. This evening was my Rainbows class. The kids made a couple different Christmas decorations and I brought them snowman shaped icecream for a treat! I didn't get to take any pics becaue the memory card in my camera was full. BOO HOO!
Anyway thought I'd share some pics of some of the decorations around the house.

~lights on the Jade Plant~

Next few are of myThomas Kincaid Christmas Village.

Snoopy, countdown to Christmas!

As you may be able to tell, I took this pic several days ago!

New Winter mugs!

Tomorrow I will try to post pics of the Christmas tree and few other decorations.

I am tired tonight, so good night and sweet dreams!

Vintage~Antiques

2011-12-07T15:55:00.000-05:00

Dan and I love browsing antique malls. I especially enjoy seeing how people set up their booths and looking at all of the vintage items.

Here are some photos from Heart Of Ohio Antiques.

The next one made Dan jump! haha

Raggedy Ann & Andy Booth

Next are pics of an old log cabin doll house.

First pic taken from the back.

The next pic shows some of the inside.

I couldn't get good photos of this house.

It looked much better in person.

Today it is sunny with temps in the 30's. Most of our snow melted from the other day. But I am sure it won't be long before we have it again. I do hope we have a white Christmas.

I had my bible study group this morning and tonight I teach at church. I teach the Rainbows class, ages 3-5. We have a great class, the kids are so fun.

Happy Wednesday!

The Historic Simon Kenton Inn, Antiques & Snow

2011-12-05T23:04:00.000-05:00

Dan and I had a lovely few days away. We went to Springfield, Ohio and stayed one night at the Simon Kenton Inn. We wanted to stay two nights, but they were booked for that second night. So, we stayed at the Hampton Inn for our second night. The Hampton Inn is one of our favorite hotels.
The Simon Kenton Inn was a new experience for us and we enjoyed ourselves very much. The whole place is gorgeous and so comfortable. We had dinner in the Inn's restaurant, fabulous!! If you have time, check out the links on the website and read the history, etc. I didn't take any photos of the restaurant, but if you go to the website you can see pics there. Theresa Siejack, the proprietor is wonderful! We will definately stay there again, probably in the spring or summer.

Here are some photos I took during our stay.

Our room~~

The Tecumseh, locate in the barn on the hill.

Believe me, it looked nothing like a barn inside!

Pics taken inside the main house~

We chose a room on the ground floor instead of up and down the stairs. Hmmm..

blurry pic.. :/

Dan..good morning! :)

We went to three different antique malls in Springfield and picked up a few things.

This side table we brought home is my favorite!

I have it sitting in a corner in our dining area.

I took some pics at the antique mall, maybe I will share some of them tomorrow.

It started snowing tonight!

Took this photo about 10 pm.

Now it feels like Christmas time.

~blessings~

SimpleWoman's Daybook plus some

2011-11-28T22:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday, well..nearly Tuesday!

I haven't posted on my Simple Woman's Daybook lately, so just did that. I don't know if I will get back into the habit of posting there every Monday, but it's fun to do once in awhile.
Picked up a book the other day at Kroger, 'The Perfect Christmas'. by Debbie Macomber. I enjoy Debbie Macomber's writing, so this should be a good read.

Bentley has an appointment with the groomer in the morning, way overdue I must say!

He loves going to the groomer, which is a good thing!

Have a happyTuesday!

family joy~Thanksgiving Day pics

2011-11-26T08:58:00.001-05:00

We had a fabulous Thanksgiving! There were 35 people, including Dan, Kelly and I here for dinner. Of course we do not have a dining room large enough to seat 35 people. ;) So, we had all the food set up in the heated portion of the garage. Actually that part of the garage is Dan's work area with all of his tools and the pool table is out there. We covered the pool table and put most of the food on it.
Now, many of the photos have tools and garage looking items in the background. For dining, we had 2 tables in the garage, 1 table in the computer/office room, 1 table in the living room and of course the dining area table.

Dad & Mom

food...so much food...

Yes..the tv was on. Everyone had to watch the football game. Too bad the Lions lost.

I was trying to get a pic...ok Brian!!

After dinner, there was more football watching on tv, playing games, lots of chatting, laughing and going through the ads for Black Friday sales.

Some after dinner pics...

blessed to have 3 of the children with us ..

Chris, Randy & Kelly

Don't you just love the garage decor!! lol

playing hearts

Maryanne & Adam

Tim & Jennifer

nap time

plotting for black friday shopping

haha

Sarah & Morgan~Lincoln Logs

Jen, Mom, Angie

What a group! :-)

The festivities at our house started around 12pm and ended around 9pm.
What a wonderful day!

We just wish that our family in Florida could have been with us.

I didn't go shopping yesterday, slept in instead!

Have a great weekend everyone.

xoxo

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T18:51:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is a time to give thanks to God, for He is good. He has blessed us so much.
Thanksgiving is a time of celebration... a time set aside to celebrate our family, friends, our blessings, celebrating others and reaching out to those in need.
Thanksgiving is also a lots of yummy food!! We will have around 32 people here for dinner! Dan and I are cooking two turkeys, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, green beans and a couple desserts. Everyone who is coming is also bringing food and drinks.
It will be a fun day, after we eat everyone will hang out here for most of the day and evening. I am looking forward to spending the day with family and I am very thankful that Dan doesn't have to work wednesday and thursday!! YAY!

Look what I've been baking today..

Cranberry Pecan White Chocolate Pie

~yum~

Wishing all of my American friends a very Happy Thanksgiving!!

And to my friends who aren't here in the USA, enjoy your week!

xoxo

Cracker Barrel & Quality Street

2011-11-17T18:06:00.001-05:00

Today has been mostly a laid back day. Dan and I went for lunch at Cracker Barrel.

pic from Cracker Barrel

The funny thing is we both ordered off the breakfast menu. Of course after we finished our meal we had a look around the gift shop. They have so many cute items! The autumn things are all on sale and the Christmas decorations, gifts, sweets, etc., so fun to look at. We didn't buy anything this time, but Dan had his eye on some Christmas singing hound dog..I told him, "I think we already have one of those".

I've been trying to take it easy this afternoon and evening. I seem to be fighting off a cold. I won't have it! I do not want to be sick, so taking some meds and trying to relax.

When our friends came from England recently for a visit, they brought us this gorgeous tin of chocolates! Oh how I love English chocolate! I would show you a pic of the contents, but they are nearly gone. hee hee.

Let me say in our defense, we have shared these tasty sweets with many friends and family members.

Hope everyone has had a wonderful day.

xoxo

scenes of autumn

2011-11-16T16:39:00.000-05:00

It is sad to see the autumn colors disappearing. Soon all of the colorful leaves will be gone. I wish the autumn leaves stayed on the trees longer, but that is not to be, this is all part of the seasonal changes.
I snapped a few pics out in the yard today, probably the last ones of autumn color for this year.

~ Japanese Maple~

Love this birdhouse

Lavender is still blooming!

gorgeous leaves

Patch having fun!

~mums from our front yard~

one of our scarecrows :-)

some of the front porch fall decor

I can't get enough of this autumn season, wish it wasn't at the end!

Once Thanksgiving is over I will start concentrating on winter and Christmas.

Happy Wednesday

xoxo

friends~family

2011-11-14T11:35:00.000-05:00

It's a quiet Monday after lots of get together with family and friends the past couple of weeks.
Thursday I paid a much overdue visit to my son Randy and his girlfriend Emily, we had a nice visit and lunch at Panera. They live about 45 minutes from us, which isn't that far. But with every one's work schedules it is hard to get together.

Emily & Randy, such a lovely couple.

Our dear friends Debbi & Steve were here for a few days. What a nice surprise! We had lunch together a couple of times, did some shopping at the mall, and had a nice evening out on Friday. Sadly Dan had to work, but Kelly & I joined Debbi, Steve, and several other friends and family at Zinful for dinner.

photos via www.zinfulwine.com

Worked out great because Friday was also Kelly's birthday!

Me with my birthday girl! Love her!

Today I am getting caught up on laundry and other household chores. Dan has tonight off, it has been weeks since he has had a night off. We may go out and see a movie later!

Happy Monday

Happy Birthday Kelly & Happy Veterans Day

2011-11-11T17:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to our wonderful daughter, Kelly who is 23 today. She is such a blessing to us. I can't believe how quickly the years have gone by.

Kelly at six weeks old~

Five years old~

and now~

It is also Veteran's Day.

Thank you to all the Veteran's including my dear husband, Dan.

God bless!

xoxo

lots of memory making

2011-11-07T19:57:00.000-05:00

We have been enjoying time with friends and family the past couple of weeks and it isn't even the holidays yet. As I mentioned before our dear British friends, Dave & Tina and two of their children, Ashley & Simone were here in the area, we had some great get togethers with them! Dave went back on Saturday, Tina, Ash and Simone left this evening, in fact they are flying right now. Oh my, how we are going to miss them! :(

My Mom & Tina

Dave & Dan

Mom, me, sister in law Jen, Tina

Simone & Tina at Bronners

Tina & Kelly

My nephew Derek is home for a few days on leave from the Navy, his girlfriend Honey came with him. Honey is such a lovely person, I am so happy we are able spend time with them both and we have this chance to get to know her!

Last night we went to Derek's youngest daughter, Lily's birthday party. She just turned three. The party was held at my brother Tim & sister in law Jennifer's house. (Tim is Derek's Dad).

Lots of people, lots of food, lots of fun!

And I took LOTS of pics..here are a couple.

Derek with both of his girls~ Brooklyn 4 1/2 and Lily 3.

This pic taken at our house on Saturday.

Today we had another small get together, at our house.

Hung out in the garage, playing pool and eating!

Dad, Derek & Mom

Dan with Lily watching

Honey with Brooklyn watching

Dan's brothers, Dick and Doug

Doug & Lily

Brooklyn hanging on Derek's leg! lol

We have had so much fun lately, making lots of happy memories. And of course I have drove everyone crazy taking photos!

Derek & Honey will be in town a couple more days, so we should see them again before they head back to Virginia.

~blessings

xoxo

Frankenmuth

2011-11-03T12:11:00.001-05:00

Tuesday I went to Frankenmuth with family and friends... all girls! This group consisted of my mom, my sister, one of my nieces and I, friends visiting from England and friends from our area. It was fun day. Our first stop was Bronners, the world's largest Christmas store. LOVE that place, I could shop there for hours and I think we did!

~cute cupcake ornaments~

love this

ornaments that represent England

I took a ton of pics on my Mom's camera, would you believe I broke mine while we were in Bronners? I dropped it. I plan on getting a new camera this weekend. :-)

Delicious lunch at Zehnders!

Next we hit Birch Run Outlet.

pic from their website.

I didn't go overboard, bought a few things at Bath & Body Works and a few things at Bare Escentuals.

Bought a yummy candle at Bath & Body.

~Cinnamon Sugared Donut~

Should have bought all they had.

heavenly :-)

Take care everyone, have a blessed day.

xoxo

for Elizabeth

2011-11-01T21:24:00.001-05:00

When someone you care about is gone from your life, gone from your world it is sad. I learned about my blogging friend, Elizabeth's death yesterday. It was a shock, I don't have any details as to what happened. I find it so very sad that I will never read her blog again or read her comments to me on my blog.
Elizabeth was a kind person and she was a private person. I never saw a photo of Elizabeth. We shared many of the same interests..a few being: love of animals, tea, shopping and Dooney & Bourke purses. :-)
I do hope that Elizabeth realized how much her online friends loved her.
I am praying for her husband Joel and their doggie, Buddy. Bless them.

This has made me realize how much I care about my online friends.
It is a comfort to know that we are here for each other, in good times and in sad times.

Much love ~Pam

colors

2011-10-31T09:13:00.000-05:00

Sharing some pics I took recently in our backyard.

Can't believe it's the last day of October!!

Patch and Bentley having fun.

Have a blessed day.

xoxo

Autumn Beauty & Good Times

2011-10-14T18:29:00.001-05:00

Sharing some of the many pics I have taken so far this autumn season.

The first several photos were taken at Hidden Lake Gardens~ Tipton, Michigan.

Dan and I have been there twice this month, we so enjoy our time together and this is one of our favorite spots.

haha, had to share this silly one!

These were taken at home, from the back of the house.

See Patch in the lower right corner?

Love this burst of color

~sunset~

I am sorry I haven't blogged lately. I have good intentions, but life has been so busy, a good busy.

My dear friend Mary, from California was here on Monday. It was a great visit!!

I wish we didn't live so far away from each other.

Here is a pic of us at Trabbic Family Farm, a local pumpkin farm.

I don't know why I wore that shirt!! It makes me laugh because I kind of blend in with all the fall colors!

Have a great weekend everyone.

xoxo

Almost October!

2011-09-30T21:48:00.000-05:00

Very shortly, September will be over. My goodness, this month sure did fly by!!

September had many wonderful times, along with sadness, but I choose to

count it all Joy and be thankful.

Opening a gift from my dear friend, Mare.

She lives in California so Dan took pics to show her.

I love this figurine and I think of JOY when I see it.

I have much to be thankful for.

Thank you Mare...looking forward to seeing you soon.

Gorgeous flowers & card from Dan

Love the card from Kelly..she also got some cute clothes..sorry no pic.

My Mom baked me a raspberry pie..my all time favorite.

Of course Grandma's recipe!

more bd goodies from Dad & Mom

I received many messages, lovely cards and precious phone calls from my sons.

I am blessed with so many loving friends and family.

I was so happy that my youngest son, Chris came to visit this past week, spent a couple days with us. He took Dan & I out for lunch at Biaggis for my bd. Delicious!!!

I had to go to the doctor yesterday. My knees have been painful for a while, but have gotten alot worse recently to the point where I don't have full motion, especially in the right knee and I can't put all my weight on my right knee. Xrays showed that the osteoarthritis has worsened..I have an appointment with the orthopedic doctor on Oct. 6. I am trusting the Lord!

Happy weekend everyone & happy October!

~much love~

MercyMe - Move

2011-09-26T10:36:00.000-05:00

For Dan's brother, JR~ We will miss him

2011-09-23T07:35:00.000-05:00

Bennett Funeral Service: Obituaries

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this time. God bless you.
Much love
~pam

one book..one thousand gifts

2011-09-19T18:37:00.001-05:00

It all started with this author, Ann Voskamp and her book..

One Thousand Gifts

A Dare To Live Fully

Right Where You Are

I am totally captivated by this book.

From the inside cover~

A beautifully practical guide to living a life of joy, One Thousand Gifts invites you to wake up to God's everyday blessings.~

On September 16, I started keeping a journal, a list, of my own one thousand gifts.

I will be posted my updated list each Monday, joining other bloggers who are doing the same in connection with this book and Ann's blog, A Holy Experience.

Pam's gifts..

1. an open book

2. a barking dog

3. sunrise

4. oatmeal & apples

5. baby bunny in the yard

6. flowers from Dan

7. brown

8. falling asleep

9. waking up

10. His Word

11. Sunday mornings

12. Dan

13. rain falling

14. birthday wishes from loved ones

15. animal crackers

16. tea in a new mug

17. "Wonder" by dc Talk

18. raindrops on the window

19. time to read

20. husband's tender embrace

21. our precious times of prayer together

22. faraway friends

love & blessings

xoxo

Pam

time away~bliss

2011-09-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

Dan and I had a wonderful get away to Northern Michigan, we were gone September 11-13. It was so nice to spend time together, relax and experience part of Michigan we haven't been to before.
We saw the Sleeping Bear Dunes and so enjoyed the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, what a gorgeous drive! Of course we made lots of stops. We spent time in Leland, Sutton's Bay, Glen Arbor, Silver Lake Dunes, Maritime Museum, and many more stops where I could take pics! I took a ton of photos..so if you would like to see more, here is a link! more pics!

In Glen Arbor we found a delightful tea shop, Great Lakes Tea and Spice.

We made a few purchases of tea, spices and flavored olive oil.

Also in Glen Arbor is Cherry Republic. Oh what a fabulous place!!

We bought some cherry goodies, chocolate covered dried cherries and cherry wine to name a couple.

Dan and I fell in love with Fishtown, Leland’s historical district, that is where our hotel was, Falling Waters Lodge. Fishtown features rustic shanties and docks reminiscent of life and commercial fishing one hundred years ago. Today, galleries and unique shops fill these shanties, and charter fishing trips and the only public ferry to the popular Manitou Islands depart from those same docks.

Check out this short video that's on their website.

The evenings we were there, we had dinner at two different restaurants, both fabulous food and great atmosphere.
Sunday night we ate at The Bluebird Restaurant, located in Leland and Monday evening we had dinner at The Cove. The Cove is in Fishtown, across the river from Falling Waters Lodge. So after dinner we walked a short bridge back to our room.

Here are a few "scenic" photos~~

A couple of Fishtown, I took so many more photos!!

Lake Michigan~gorgeous

Part of Sleeping Bear Dunes and no we did not climb it. ;-)

Little Sable Lighthouse

Point Betsie

It wasn't open when we were there, so couldn't get real close.

Like I said, I took many more photos, so if you are interested, click on the more pics link at the beginning of this post.

I could go on and on about this little holiday that Dan and I had.

Well, hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Be blessed

~hugs~

Toledo Farmer's Market

2011-09-05T18:05:00.000-05:00

Had a great time on Saturday at the Farmer's Market.

There was so much to look at and what great prices!

Here are a few pics I took.

One of the entrances.

We got there before it got too busy.

Just a peek at some of the gorgeous flowers.

A sample of the many goodies!

Popcorn

more flowers..

I bought some sunflowers...

and

Tubular Roses.

They are so fragrant!

I also bought cantaloupe and apples.

It was a fun morning. I am so glad Cindy asked me to go!

Hope everyone is having a happy Monday.

Be blessed

Happy September, dreaming of Autumn

2011-09-01T13:46:00.001-05:00

Happy September!

I am dreaming of Autumn...

We are having very warm, humid weather right now, so it doesn't seem like Autumn is right around the corner.

Yesterday I tried a new recipe, Crunchy Chocolate Biscotti. I have never made biscotti before and I have to say, it turned out pretty good! Especially with a nice cup of tea.

I have plans with my friend Cindy to go to The Farmers Market on Saturday morning.

Cindy goes every Saturday, she says they have all kinds of wonderful things to buy.

For some reason Dan and I have never been there and it's only a 15 minute drive from our house.

I plan on coming home with some goodies this Saturday!

~blessings~

xoxo

fab party~

2011-08-30T15:45:00.001-05:00

I went to a 50th wedding anniversary party Saturday night for my Uncle Earle and Aunt Judy. Dan had to work and couldn't go, so my parents picked me up and we went together. It was nice seeing everyone and reconnecting with some family that I haven't been with in a very long time.
Here are a few pics from the party, a great party as always, at my cousin Greg's home.

~all kinds of sweets to choose from~

~some of the delicious food~

~Aunt Judy & Uncle Earle~

(actually they are great aunt & great uncle)

Uncle Earle is my Dad's uncle.

Dad & Uncle Earle :-)

I have lots more pics on facebook.

Happy Tuesday!

xoxo

A few vintage items

2011-08-25T15:26:00.003-05:00

Dan and I like to browse Antique shops, flea markets and garage sales. We are not big antique collectors by any means, but we enjoy finding items that are unique or interesting to us. I love vintage, here are a few of the things we have collected.

~toothpick holder~

Some of Dan's "stuff" on display in the garage.

~old bakery advert~

~postcards~

These postcards were purchased at an antique shop.

I have an album of old family family postcards that my Mom recently gave me, will have to take pics of them sometime to post on here.

Love this oak filing cabinet, we have put it to good use!

Small English Teapot..bottom markings read:

Sadler

Made In England

I actually won this at a silent auction that was for our church's children ministry. I was just trying to get the bidding going, didn't think I would actually bring it home. ;-)

I think I paid $1 or $2 for this "Snack Hound". I looked it up on Ebay..

Snack Hound on Ebay

It's going for $20 on Ebay.

Hmmmm....

I will end with this, it's not "old" but it's vintage looking.

I have this magnet on my fridge, it makes me smile.

Be blessed!

xoxo

floor cleaning~I know..boring!

2011-08-22T18:43:00.000-05:00

Cleaning floors, one of my least favorite chores. We have Pergo floors in our kitchen, dining room and the master bedroom/bath.

The master bedroom/bath is upstairs and that floor is very easy to keep clean, not much traffic up there!
Downstairs the kitchen/dining area is a very high traffic area. We normally come into the house through the garage area into the kitchen, also the dogs are in the kitchen/dining area the majority of the time. I get a bit overwhelmed trying to keep the floor clean!
I use my Shark Steam Mop once a week...

Then on a daily basis I am using the Swiffer Vac and Swiffer Mopping Pads. With two dogs there are many times I need to do a quick clean up through the kitchen!

I am tired of paying for expensive and environmentally unfriendly dusters and sweepers, so I started checking online for a more economical solution.

I found a great idea on the following website.

Turn your Swiffer Sweeper into a microfiber mop:

I plan on buying microfiber cloths and applying them to the Swiffer Sweeper in the same way as a refill! A package of microfiber clothes are inexpensive and can be machine washed and used over and over. I can use them dry with the Swiffer Vac and wet, using my own choice of cleaning solution when I am mopping.

Well, I know this isn't the most exciting post, but it sure helped me today!

Take care..be blessed

xoxo

Weeds, Petunias, Friends

2011-08-20T16:05:00.001-05:00

Happy Saturday! Dan was busy cleaning and organizing the garage today and I was busy pulling weeds in the front of the house. It amazes me how fast those pesky weeds grow!

On the other hand, the petunias in the back of the house, took off like crazy, in fact these petunias came back from last years plants. I have never had that happen before. They not only came back in the barrel planters, but spread on the ground. Here is a petunia that come up through a crack in concrete,,,crazy!

Our dear friends, Steve & Debbi were here for a visit! We so enjoy our time with them. The above saying is SO true!

I am so glad that Debbi was here for her birthday!

It is always sad to see them leave here and go back to their own home.

Hopefully we will see them again soon.

God bless

~hugs~

SWD~it's been a while!

2011-08-16T17:19:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned yesterday..today is my Mom's birthday!
Happy birthday Mom, we love you!

You can also find me here today! I posted on my SWD blog.

~pam~

middle of august~oh my!

2011-08-15T21:21:00.000-05:00

It's been a nice couple of days, sunny and temps not too bad, in the low 80's for the most part. It's the middle of August already, amazing how fast time goes by!
It's been a busy month so far, both fun things along with serious issues with some family and friends.

Dan had last night off from work, we went over to my parents for a visit. Then my brother Ed, his wife Angie and their kids showed up, then my sister, Lori! It was kind of like a family reunion!! We all went out to dinner at a Mexican place we haven't been to before, El Nuevo Vallarta. We all had a fun time and the food was excellent.

Tomorrow is my Mom's birthday! Happy Birthday Mom, we love you!

Have a great week everyone. God bless.

~hugs~

Vacation~East Twin Lake~Ausable River~Mackinac Island~Chocolate Shoes

2011-07-30T20:04:00.000-05:00

Hard to believe it's the end of July, this summer is sailing by! It's been a pretty warm, actually hot summer so far, wondering how August is going to treat us? Personally I am hoping for some cooler temps, high 70's and low 80's.

Dan and I were away July15-22 on vacation with family. Kelly didn't go, she was working and taking care of the doggies at home. My parents were there, all of my siblings & spouses and some of the nieces and nephews. We were in the West Branch, Michigan area on East Twin Lake. We rented cabins on the lake, it was a gorgeous view!

Took this pic from my lounger.

~mama deer and two fawns~

( pic taken by my sister, Lori.)

Dan out on our boat, fishing. He loves to fish.

~sunset~

We took a day trip on The Ausable River Queen.

Another day trip to one of my favorite places in the world, Mackinac Island.

Look at these chocolate shoes you can buy at Sander's Candy & Icecream on Mackinac Island! I wanted to get one for Kelly but $38 for one chocolate shoe is bit pricey. ;-)

Some the family that was there.

It was a fun trip, but nice to be back home.

~blessings~

What is that smell?

2011-07-09T16:21:00.000-05:00

For at least three days I have been smelling an unpleasant odor in the kitchen. Each day it would get a bit worse. Last night, I had narrowed it down to the area around the stove. And it's a new stove at that, less then 2 weeks old. Anyway I cleaned all the surfaces around the stove, the top of the stove, cleaned the floor, checked everything out..so I thought. Yesterday afternoon and evening, I burned my gorgeous gingerbread scented candle. It helped mask the odor, but the bad odor was still there.
This morning it was so bad, a rotting smell. Dan came home from work this morning and said "it smells like something died in here." He opened the oven, which I didn't even think to do, and what did we find?? A turkey carcass from last Saturday!!! OH my goodness, how embarrassing!!
Last Saturday I cooked a turkey and after I had all the meat off, I put the carcass & pan back in the oven. My intention was to discard of it later in the day. I totally forgot all about it!! So what we were smelling was the little bit of turkey meat left on the bones and the grease in the bottom of the baking pan, rotting for 7 days!! Disgusting!!!

On a spiritual note, this got me thinking about how sometimes we let things bother us, let things built up inside and we don't get rid of the garbage. A few garbage items I can think of are: unforgiveness, selfishness, holding a grudge... you get the idea. If we let things sit and rot, it stinks and the longer it rots the worse the smell gets. We can try to cover up the smell but it won't go away till we get rid of the garbage. Throw out those stinky attitudes and rotten thoughts. If we don't get throw out the garbage and clean up the mess, it affects us, those around us and last but certainly not least, it affects our walk with the Lord.

Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.
~Philippians 4:8

Happy weekend!

~sweet blessings~

Pam

Luna Pier Freedom Festival

2011-07-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July!

I know it is a couple days early, but tomorrow our town of Luna Pier, is celebrating Independence Day.

It is Luna Pier Freedom Festival, there are events all day around town.

Beach time...

garage sales...

food vendors...

and of course,...

fireworks at dusk!!

It's a busy and fun day for our town, lots of visitors!

We will be home all day and evening. We will have family and friends in and out all day.

Happy 4th of July to all of my American friends & family!

And to everyone, have a happy weekend!

~sweet blessings~

A good morning praise

2011-06-25T05:28:00.000-05:00

"From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD's name is to be praised." ~ Psalm 113:3

This morning I am going to the ladies breakfast at our church.

A great time of fellowship and yummy food.

Have a fabulous weekend!

~sweet blessings~

grandsons, father's day & bedroom remodel update

2011-06-24T19:24:00.003-05:00

Here is the latest pic I have of Colton and Braedon! They are getting SO big!

LOVE my boys...

A couple pics from Father's Day

Dan and Kelly

Dan, Kelly and I went out to dinner with my parents, my brother Tim and his wife Jennifer, and Tim's son David. It was a nice Father's Day celebration at Longhorn Steakhouse.

Here is Dad opening his gift from us...

We got him a Lowes gift card and this big jar of mints! Dad really likes these mints, so as a joke we buy him the big container of them on special occasions. ;-)

The bedroom remodeling is going well. We decided to go with another waterbed mattress, yay! Most of the furniture is back in place. Tomorrow the waterbed will get filled and a new ceiling fan/light fixture is going up. I am still in the process of finding new curtains and a comforter. I will take pics when everything is finished. Dan is working so hard on the room, plus working 12 hour shifts at work. He is amazing!

Have a wonderful weekend!

~sweet blessings~

frosting....

2011-06-22T14:16:00.001-05:00

This is so true....

pic via

American Greetings

~sweet blessings~

Father's Love Letter ♥♥♥

2011-06-19T13:18:00.000-05:00

Bedroom remodel~Happy Father's Day

2011-06-18T19:08:00.001-05:00

Dan has recovered from his surgery, he has been back to work and working a lot. Many 12 hour shifts and on top of that he is remodeling our bedroom.
We have had a waterbed for years and love it. Well, the waterbed mattress sprung a tiny leak. Dan tried to patch the teeny tiny hole and it got bigger! Thankfully we decided to drain the mattress before something disasterous happened. Dan had always said that when we drained the waterbed he was going to replace the old carpeting in our room with a wood floor, Pergo. Of course if we are putting a new floor down, we need to paint the room, new window treatments are needed and of course new bedding! This is a total bedroom makeover. We are going shopping Monday to look at mattresses.

We are thinking of getting a different type of mattress, giving up the waterbed. I think I may faint, I have slept on a waterbed for over 30 years! This is all kind of excting, but I feel bad for my hubby doing all of this hard work in our bedrooom, plus working many hours. I don't know when the room will be done, thankfully we have a guest room to sleep in for the time being.

Tomorrow is Father's Day! I am very thankful for my Dad. He is not only an awesome Dad, but a wonderful grandpa and a strong man of God.

I am very thankful for Dan, my wonderful, hard working husband who is an awesome Dad to our children.

~sweet blessings~

Don’t Settle For Less—Receive God’s Best - Article - Andrew Wommack Ministries

2011-06-08T09:16:00.001-05:00

Don’t Settle For Less—Receive God’s Best - Article - Andrew Wommack Ministries

Patrick & Eugene, Don't Stop

2011-06-07T19:39:00.000-05:00

A catchy tune!

The It Works Way: The God of Prosperity

2011-06-06T18:14:00.001-05:00

The It Works Way: The God of Prosperity: "A message from Cindy Pentecost: There is much talk in our culture today about wealth and who controls the flow of blessings in our life. ..."

Mackinac Island, Celebrate Your Marriage, Grand Hotel & Beaumont Hospital!

2011-05-28T17:25:00.002-05:00

Dan and I went to Mackinac Island this past week for Celebrate Your Marriage with Jay & Laura. We were looking forward to the conference and staying at The Grand Hotel. We arrived Monday afternoon.

Welcome!

Jay & Laura

One view from our room

Some pics of our room

A few pics around the island

Little Luxuries of Macinac Island

I LOVE this shop! I had the pleasure to talk with the owner, Nicole for a few minutes and of course I bought a few delightful items.

Check out her blog at the link above, you will love it.

Dan became ill while we were on the island, actually he had been having symptoms for a few days. It all came to a head Monday evening and we left the island to get Dan to the hospital.
I drove him to Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, MI

Dan had emergency surgery on Tuesday, his gall bladdar was removed. The doctor told us his gall bladdar was full of stones, ducts were blocked and the gall bladder was extremely inflamed. The surgery went well and Dan was able to come home Wednesday evening. He is resting and trying his best to be a good patient. We are so thankful to the Lord that all is going well and I was able to get him to the hospital that he prefers!

OK, will try to past again soon!

~sweet blessings~

New Business Venture!

2011-05-27T22:36:00.002-05:00

I have a new business venture and I have a brand new business blog as well!

Take a peek when you get a chance!

It Works! ~ Business Blog

Pam Moore It Works!~Business Website/Place Orders/FAQ

So much is going on around here, will try my best to update here again real soon!

~sweet blessings~

A lovely Easter

2011-04-25T16:19:00.002-05:00

Easter Sunday was wonderful! We started the day at church celebrating Jesus resurrection! That is really what it's all about. Jesus sacrificing His life. dieing on the cross for us, our sins! Then on the third day He rose from the dead, giving us the gift of eternal life!! Praise His name!!
The service at church was awesome! Praise and worship was wonderful, I can't express how much our worship team ministers to me, to our congregation..I think of it as a taste of Heaven. The special choir did a wonderful job yesterday as well and of course Pastor George's preaching was excellent! Thank You God for Foundation Stone Christian Church and everyone there!
After church, we had family over for dinner and hanging out. Randy was able to make it, SO good to spend time with him, but Chris had to work, we missed him! Jeremy, Sabrina, Colton & Braedon were missed greatly as well!! They are too far away that is a fact!! Of course Kelly was home, my parents were here, my aunt, two of my brothers & families and my sister & her family. Dan had to work last night, but he was able to enjoy the meal and spend some time with the family.

a few pics...

Gorgeous Easter flowers & addicting candy

The hyacinth is from our church and the tulips are from Randy& Emily!

Cupcakes Jennifer made, so cute and tasted delicious!

Auntie Arlene & Mom

Today is rainy, but I really don't mind. I've been getting things straightened up around the house and doing laundry.

Be blessed!

Dan's Birthday, Applebees & New Shoes

2011-04-21T13:55:00.000-05:00

Today is Dan's birthday! He does not liking making a fuss about his birthday. But, he does enjoy the german chocolate birthday cake..

We did a little shopping at the mall this morning, Dan got a pair of work shoes and I found this cute pair of shoes for myself!

After shopping we had lunch at Applebees.

Dan had Shrimp & Parmesan Sirloin

I had French Onion Soup

and Grilled Shrimp & Spinach Salad

pics from applebees

Have a great day!

xoxo

~April birthdays~

2011-04-19T18:38:00.000-05:00

April is a big birthday month for our family! Today is my brother Tim's birthday. This pic was taken last year at his birthday party. lol

Happy Birthday little brother!

Also today is my dear friend, Julie's birthday!

A few of us girls had a party for her yesterday, it was so much fun! It was at Elaina's house, she did all the decorating, all the work..but we all brought food. :-)

My contribution was a big crock pot full of Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice Soup..yum!

pic from Weis Markets

My sister, Lori's birthday was earlier this month, my brother in law threw a surprise party for her. And yes, she was surprised!! lol It was a fun evening.

Thursday is Dan's birthday! He keeps telling me, "It's just another day." We are going to dinner with to celebrate his birthday on Friday with Kelly and his older kids. Then on Easter we will celebrate ALL the April birthdays in the family. There are several!!

Be blessed!

xoxo

I ♥ Skype

2011-04-18T19:57:00.000-05:00

Just spent a few minutes on Skype with my kids and grandkids in Florida! What a great way to connect when we live so far away from each other.
I love seeing my grandsons Colton and Bradeon's cute little faces, hearing them talk, giggle and sing, seeing them blowing kisses and just being silly! That made my night for sure!

Colton & Braedon ♥

~blessings~

xoxo

I

2011-04-18T19:19:00.001-05:00

Time away~Kirkwood Inn

2011-04-16T16:55:00.000-05:00

Dan & I had a little " 2 day-getaway" this week.

It was great to spend time together and browse antique shops.

We stayed at The Kirkwood Inn,

located in Mason, Ohio.

Our room was very nice and had all the comforts of home.

We were given a personal tour of

The Historic Kirkwood House

which is located behind the Inn.

Very beautiful & the history is so interesting!

For breakfast we enjoyed a delicious country buffet breakfast in the Historic Kirkwood House dining room.

A few photos of some of the grounds.

This is still early spring, so not many flowers yet. ;-)

gorgeous gazebo

ivy all around~

beautiful groundcover

birdie bath :-)

dan

very peaceful

I would love to see the gardens in full bloom.

We will certainly stay there again, what a delight!

Thank you to the Eves and their staff for making our visit at Kirkwood Inn

so nice and relaxing.

~blessings

some vintage & signs of spring

2011-04-01T17:54:00.000-05:00

Thought I would share a few of my latest vintage finds.

Cute postcards..

Adorable toothpick holder!

Dan and I bought this oak file cabinet. I love it!

Old bakery label/sign

It's been a nice day. Sunny, temps near 50. Starting to look like Spring! I am enjoying watching all the robins in the yard.

robin photo from

Experience Michigan

Happy Friday

~hugs~

Smal

2011-03-26T21:05:00.001-05:00

2011-03-26T17:17:00.001-05:00

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili

2011-03-21T13:16:00.000-05:00

Yum...this sounds delicious! I think it will be a good one to try out on a Sunday.

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili Ginas Skinny Recipes

Happy Monday

~be blessed~

Turkey-Reuben via Bethenny Frankel

2011-03-19T17:11:00.002-05:00

I am a big fan of Bethenny Frankel. This recipe for Bethenny's turkey-reuben sounds fab! I've had turkey-reubens at restaurants, but never made one at home. I will try this soon! YUM!

pic from Bethenny's site

Hope everyone is having a nice weekend.

~be blessed~

Happy St. Patrick's Day~

2011-03-17T16:13:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

ST. PATRICK...He lived from 340AD to 440AD..was captured by Irish raiders for 6 years...learned the Celtic language...and brought Christianity to the aboriginal people of Ireland. After some showdowns with the Druid priests and pagan chiefs, he successfully taught the people about the Trinity using the Shamrock...with 3 leafs and one single stem. He died March 17th.

Love & Blessings

2011-03-16T22:09:00.001-05:00

~Happy St. Patrick's Da

Laura Story - Blessings

2011-03-15T14:54:00.000-05:00

Thirty-One Gifts & Vintage Fun

2011-03-12T20:01:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I went with Kelly to Thirty-One Gifts purse party.

It was fun hanging out with Kelly and I ordered a cute purse. Yay!

This morning Dan and I had a date, went to a couple anitque malls and then lunch at Michigan Bar and Grill. They have delicious food and great service. Dan had a steak, baked potato and salad. I had a chicken melt sandwich with fries.

We both enjoy browsing and finding treasures at antique shops. It is normally small treasures that we buy. I love vintage items and it seems it is becoming more and more interesting to me. Maybe because I'm getting older? ;-) I plan on blogging more about my vintage interests in the future.

Of course this terrible tragedy over in Japan is on my mind, in my prayers.

I know that I have so much to be grateful for, counting my blessings.

Take care everyone, God bless!

~hugs~

Pam

2011-03-11T20:12:00.003-05:00

This is what I posted on facebook today...
Praying for Japan & all affected by this earthquake & tsunami. I hope that I never complain again about our weather conditions here in Michigan..how silly to complain about cold temps, snow & ice, compared to all that is happening in Japan, Hawaii and the west coast.

God bless~
Pam

~Happy With Joy~

2011-03-07T10:36:00.000-05:00

This very cute, short video is well worth watching! Be blessed by a child's faith. May we seek to be known not for our worldly wisdom, but for our childlike faith.

~hugs~

Rainy Days

2011-03-04T22:47:00.001-05:00

“Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass…it’s about learning how to dance in the rain!”
–Vivian Greene

Rainy weather, cozy weather for tea..

and candles...

I did get some housework done, scrubbed kitchen, dining room floors and laundry is caught up.

Have a happy weekend!

xoxo

~Pam~

Ice Storm~2011

2011-02-26T22:46:00.000-05:00

We were hit with a major ice storm/snow storm February 20-21. Here are a few pics, this shows just a tiny bit of what it was really like around here! We are thanking the Lord for His protection!

There were many trees/limbs down, power lines and poles broken, etc.

For us, the power went out about 2am on the 21st and came back on around 6pm on the 23rd.

This was down the street, Kelly took the pic on her phone.

Our local fire dept. came around to check on everyone.

They also passed out these fliers...

Thankfully, we have a generator that kept our furnace running. We were safe and warm.

Many thanks to our city workers, firefighters, and all of the utility workers!!

God bless you all.

Well, I think that's enough for now. I would really like to keep up better with my blog. It's a great way to look back and remember things that have happened, to keep track of things.

Have a lovely Sunday!

xoxo

Happy Valentine'sDay

2011-02-14T12:49:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a lovely Valentine's Day!

I started my day with a cup of tea..

Beautiful flowers~Love Story Lily~ & card from Dan..

Remember...

Very cute Valentine...
What is Love? via Betty Crocker

Be blessed!

~Snow Days~

2011-02-05T18:40:00.001-05:00

So far, February has been filled with snowy days.

Patch & Bentley especially love the snow.

I didn't have to go out today, so it has been a cozy, snowy Saturday. Lots of candles burning, drinking tea and watching old movies on Turner Classic Movies.

If my adorable grandsons lived near us, I would have them outside making snowmen. Oh what fun that would be!

~be blessed~

xoxo

~Happy New Year~

2010-12-31T19:16:00.000-05:00

Dan and I are enjoying a quiet evening at home. We went out for dinner and a movie late this afternoon.

Take care everyone.

~Have A Blessed & Happy New Year~

xoxoxo

Christmas Pics

2010-12-29T22:59:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! We had a lovely day filled with family and friends, lots of laughing, eating, playing games and enjoying each other's company.

Here are a few pics of Christmas day.

Dan and I with 3 of the kids, Chris, Kelly and Randy. Jeremy, Sabrina and the grandbabies couldn't come this year from Florida...they were greatly missed!!

Bentley the Reindeer!

Patch posing!

Adam & Maryanne

Kevin was here from Chicago!

And he brought us Sprinkles Cupcakes!

Here is my coconut cupcake. :-) YUM!

Dad & Mom opening their stocking

~cousins~

say cheese!

Randy, Kelly & Chris

~Dad~

OK, guess that's enough pics for now!

Happy New Year

God Bless

~hugs~

Christmas...

2010-12-11T10:11:00.000-05:00

Christmas gift suggestions:

To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.

~Oren Arnold

Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love,
a time when the love of God
and the love of our fellow men
should prevail over all hatred and bitterness,
a time when our thoughts and deeds and
the spirit of our lives manifest the presence of God.

~George F. McDougall

Have a happy, blessed weekend!
~hugs~

Party Pics

2010-12-07T17:29:00.001-05:00

My Aunt's birthday party went well! Everyone had a great time, lots of great memories shared and many wonderful memories made that day. Here are a few pics.

Yummy cake...

My Aunt and my Mom...

~Sisters~

Auntie with us..nieces and nephews...

Now with the great nieces & nephews..a few are missing.

Now with the great-great nieces & great-great nephews...Colton and Braedon are missing.

Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes for my Aunt Arlene!

Take care and God bless.

xoxo

Birthday Celebration

2010-12-03T22:41:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is my Aunt Arlene's 80th birthday celebration!! The party/open house is at her church in the fellowship hall. My Aunt, who we lovingly call "Auntie", didn't marry or have children. She has always been very involved with the family and especially in the lives of all her nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and now great-great nieces and great-great nephews! She worked for Child Evangelism many years, retiring in 1995 and has always been very much involved with the childrens ministry among other things in her church. We, (the whole family) feel especially honored to give her this party, this celebration of her 80th birthday!

Here is a recent pic of Auntie~

God bless and have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo

~Happy December~

2010-12-01T23:18:00.001-05:00

Happy first day of December! We had snow flurries off and on all day. Sorry to say that none of the snow stuck. Oh well, I am sure in a couple of months I will be complaining about the snow!

It's been a good day. I had my ladies bible study this morning, did some stuff around the house and then helped with Rainbows this evening at church. Rainbows is a group for ages 3-5, part of our children's ministry program. I love teaching and helping with the kids. They are all so cute and such blessings!

Well, it's getting late, I think I will get to bed. Take care everyone and God bless!

xoxo

Cozy, Rainy Tuesday

2010-11-30T14:29:00.000-05:00

It is a rainy day and I am enjoying doing things around the house and smelling yummy candles burning!

Yesterday I posted on my other blog, take a peek at my simple woman's daybook.

I may be back later! Have a blessed day.

Sunday Evening News

2010-11-28T20:59:00.002-05:00

We had a really nice Thanksgiving. A good time with family and good food!

Here are a few pics.

Crowded kitchen...

My parents

Guys watching football

My brother in law, Bill is in the rocking chair, my sons Chris & Randy and my brother Brian are sitting on the couch. Sorry to say, Detroit Lions didn't win! But that isn't suprising! lol
All of my Autumn decorations are down and packed away till next year.
I will start my Christmas decorating soon! YAY!
Check out the music player here on my blog, I added some nice Christmas music.

Love came down at Christmas;

Love all lovely, love divine;

Love was born at Christmas,

Stars and angels gave the sign.

~Christina Rossetti

God bless

xoxo

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-24T18:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Have a blessed day with family and friends.

I am busy, but loving every minute of it, looking forward to everyone coming over tomorrow!

Catch up with everyone in a couple days!

xoxo

Life is good

2010-11-20T19:33:00.001-05:00

Today, Kelly and I enjoyed some mother/daughter time. We relaxed and were pampered at Beauty Bar Salon and Spa.

We finally used the gift cards that Dan gave us last Christmas!!

It was so delightful, we both had a Swedish massage and a facial. Ahh, wish we could treat ourselves to this once a week. Wouldn't that be nice?

I found a new tea that I love! Bigelow Autumn Spiced.
Super Yummy!

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving! It is such a nice holiday for family and friends to share the day and really appreciate each other. Plus all that delicious food! We will have the festivities here at our house and I am very happy that Dan has that evening off from work. Yay!

Have a blessed weekend~hugs

Kelly's Birthday!

2010-11-11T20:04:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday to Kelly! Our baby girl is 22 today. Wow! Where does time go?

We love you Kelly!

~Birthday Cupcakes~

God bless!

xoxo

Friends are a blessing

2010-11-04T17:18:00.000-05:00

Had a wonderful day with my dear friend Cindy. First we did a bit of shopping at Sweet Annies. I picked up some candles and a little Christmas stocking stuffer for my Dad. Next we headed over to Tecumseh, Michigan, downtown is very quaint. :-) We enjoyed tea and a lovely lunch at The British Panty and British Tea Garden.

I enjoyed one the black teas, apricot flavor. Here is the description~ rich, sweet & elegant flavor of apricots is infused with a blend of black teas from Kenya, Indonesia & Ceylon. Cindy had Ginger Peach Tea~ juicy, ripe Georgia peaches with just the right amount of Asian ginger spice add a wonderful sensation of flavor.
For lunch we both had the house salad~Assorted greens mixed with dried cherries, toasted pine nuts and shredded Parmesan cheese, with chicken breast. Served with homemade raspberry maple vinaigrette.
After lunch we went to the purplepear tree, what a great shop! Lots of unique items.
It was a fun day. Lots of talking, laughing, lovely tea, and yummy food.

"Friends are the sunshine of life." -John Hay

"And Pooh said to Piglet "Life is so much friendlier with two."

Happy Thursday~be blessed!

xoxo

~pam~

Toledo Museum of Art

2010-10-29T19:11:00.000-05:00

Today, my sister in law, Sharon and I had a fun afternoon at the Toledo Museum of Art. We didn't take the time to visit the new Egypt Experience, will save that for another time. But we did take in most everything else at the museum. I haven't been there in a couple of years, so it was really nice. I enjoy all of the collections and special exhibits that our Art Museum offers.

I found this painting fascinating.

Maxfield Parrish's "The Lantern Bearers"

The Lantern Bearers (1908), originally created as a cover illustration for the December 10, 1910 issue of Collier’s magazine. Widely regarded as one of the most popular American illustrators in the first half of the 20th century, Maxfield Parrish (1870 – 1966) was renowned for his idealized neo-classical imagery, meticulous craftsmanship and luminous, richly saturated colors. In The Lantern Bearers, a group of Pierrot or clown figures ascend a set of stairs.
**The photo and description are from the museum's website.

Happy Friday everyone!

xoxo

~Pam~

The Heat Is On

2010-10-28T17:17:00.001-05:00

Cooler weather is setting in. Today's high temp was 48 degrees, it is windy and tonight's low is in the 30's. So, this afternoon Dan turned the furnace on. I delayed him as long as I could on turning on the heat! The heat is on in more way then one! These personal "heat waves"that I experience numerous times day and night keep me overly warm! No, not overly warm, it is extreme heat! Boy, I would be in business if I could sell this heat I am generating to everyone who complains about being cold.

Very thankful for fans, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning in my car, ice water, snow, rain and everything that is cold and refreshing. I will survive!

Happy Thursday evening, be blessed!

xoxo

~Pam~

Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing! Proverbs 25:13 (Message Bible)

~tuesday evening~

2010-10-26T17:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Tuesday! I am enjoying a cozy evening. Early today we experienced extremely high winds and were under a tornado warning for a couple of hours.

Thank God that everything is fine, we don't have any damage. We are having strange weather for the end of October. With all the wind and rain the trees are losing their gorgeous leaves much faster.

I don't know about anyone else, but I am tired of all these political calls. Yikes, I think we get on average three calls a day! (sometimes more). Most of the phone calls are automated so I just hang up. Plus all the junk mail in our mailbox, several political ads, everyday! Well, it will soon be over with.

Sharing some pics of our awesome grandsons, Colton and Braedon. Colton just turned 3 earlier this month and Braedon was 1 in July. I sure do miss those boys!

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Here is a great quote I read in one of my devotional books.

"Do not have your concert first and tune your instruments afterwards. Begin the day with God." ~Hudson Taylor

The best preparation for the day is tuning our minds to the mind of the Lord. I enjoy my early morning time in prayer, talking to God and reading my bible. It has been a much treasured part of my daily routine. I highly recommend starting your day off with Jesus!

love & blessings

xoxo

~pam~

It's Monday!

2010-10-18T11:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! I posted on my SWD, hope to see you there!

~blessings~

2010-10-16T16:58:00.002-05:00

This free photo slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Expecting Company!

2010-09-30T10:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday! Hope everyone is having a fabulous week. Today, Sue is coming to visit for a few days! I am very excited to be able to spend time with her. Of course shopping and Olive Garden are on the agenda. Bye for now, lots to do!

God bless

Saturday Fun

2010-09-26T18:31:00.000-05:00

Saturday, Dan and I enjoyed a beautiful autumn day. We went to Hidden Lake Gardens, Sweet Annies Granary and Erie Orchards.

Here are some of the photos we took at Hidden Lake Gardens.

Now here are some photos from Erie Orchards, this weekend was the Pumpkin Festival.

This is our friend Nick, click on his name and check out his website.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend.

God bless