Nature's Fireworks

What an awesome night we had at The Yellow House last night. Strobe lightening, torrential rain, booming thunder. It was amazing. I slept through lots of it but was awake for some of the show. The rain and thunder continued this morning, and we were under a flash flood warning for a while. Some areas did experience flooding, but we're on a bit of a hill, so everything runs off. 

The sun has just come out, so I guess the storms are gone for now. We really did need the rain. My lawn is already greener than yesterday, and I won't (thank goodness) have to pull hoses around to water things today.

Instead, I have been in the sewing room all morning working on the kitchen block. Almost have everything fused. This afternoon, I'll probably work on the Pinwheel Blocks of the Month. I'm still way behind on that project. 

Toodles.

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On 07/31/2012, Donna said ...

Susan,
Glad you got much needed rain and won't have to drag hoses around to water. I heard the lightning was amazing that way. We had rain but not much lightning thank goodness!
Hugs,
Donna

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On 07/31/2012, Linda said ...

Wish some of that rain had move way north, Missouri. We are burnt up and losing trees. Yarn has not been mowed in 2 months. DRY, DRY, Dry. We did get 3/10 on Sunday

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On 08/01/2012, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Don't you just love a bid storm? I love how it cools things down and freshens everything up!
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Yellow House Happenings

Major change took place at the Yellow House over the weekend. My grandson moved in with me. At first I was very nervous about this. I've been living alone since Vann's death in 2009, almost three years ago. And to tell the truth, I enjoy my alone time, my privacy and freedom.

But after a couple of days, there have been no problems. Jesse has not encroached "on my space" and I don't think I've been in his way. I helped him get his bedroom set up; then we went to the grocery store and stocked up on stuff he needed. I think it's going to work out fine. He'll probably be here at least through the remainder of his fireman/emt training, until he can afford to get out on his own.

Meanwhile, I've been working on the kitchen block for my dollhouse quilt and watering flowers. 

A kitchen in the making

When I started digging through my stash for kitchen wallpaper fabric, I found a piece of this fly pint. That's it! I declared. That's my kitchen wallpaper. (I don't know, for some reason, I'm tickled at the idea of flies in the kitchen.) But I could only find the one piece, which had a hole in it (see hole in photo?). I don't know what made the hole. Well, obviously I did; but I mean, I don't know for what purpose or accident the hole was made. But I decided to use it, and put a big plate on the hutch shelf right over that hole. Voila!

Happy Monday to all. 

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On 07/30/2012, Clare said ...

I have been out of touch with people online for awhile - but got back to my blogging awhile ago . . . so time to get back on commenting to wonderful people and blogs again. Grandms can be just what young people need sometime. Have a wonderful day!

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On 07/30/2012, Brenda said ...

It's wonderful that you gave place to your grandson. He looks like an awesome man and I bet he will be very helpful to you. I love the kitchen block for your quilt. You're just so creative!! Great idea about the flies and covering up that hole.
Happy Monday!
Brenda

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On 07/30/2012, Joanne said ...

I love the kitchen block! Cute wallpaper.

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On 07/30/2012, Jan said ...

My motto - when all else fails, - Applique!!

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On 07/30/2012, Jean said ...

Whoot Whoot - good for you I am a great fan of all things grand (sons, daughters, cats, dogs) I am also a very big fan of all things firemen, emt, police, RCMP (national police in Canada), military, corrections - I think they all deserve a big hug an much support. I will add Jesse to my prayer list for my favourite heros. May you do well Jesse. I know the training is grueling and sometimes boring, but think it is great that your grandma can support you in your venture just as you have supported her in her new life.

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On 07/30/2012, Jan said ...

We had my cousin (much younger) with us for 4+ years when he was in college and it was a wonderful time for all of us! He's all grown up and has a family of his own but he always tells us how much he appreciates what we did for him. He did as much for us as we may have for him...happy times!

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On 08/11/2012, laura said ...

I love flys in the kitchen fabric!!What a giggle.


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Let Them Eat Cake--and Save Me a Piece

Yesterday I created my spread for the next journal in Beverly's CIrcle Journal Challenge Group. This one was Grace's "Marie Antoinette" journal. I had a lot of fun with this one. Hope Grace likes it.

Front sides of sign-in tag book


Back sides of sign-in tag book

Had a nice outing last night with sisters Ramey and Joanne and niece India and grandson Jesse. We all went to Cracker Barrel to celebrate Ramey's birthday. We had a great time laughing, talking, and watching Jesse eat.

I've been working on my kitchen for the Dollhouse Quiltalong. Hope you other quiltalongers are having as much fun with this project as I am.

Fibro symptoms have lessened a bit, my knee is better, and my back is cooperating somewhat. I don't know how long the respite will last, but I'm going to enjoy it while it does.

I'm linking up with Beverly over at How Sweet the Sound for her Pink Saturday Blog Party. This time, Bevely will be featuring Pink and Yellow in honor of her birthday. So y'all go on over to Beverly's Blog and wish her a happy birthday and do some blog hopping while you're there.

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On 07/28/2012, Maria Wilson said ...

Love the journal...didn't know there was a journal circle group....I love the tags too! I'm blog jumping from Beverly's blog...lol...smiles, Maria from Seattle

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On 07/28/2012, LaVoice said ...

Even when you do not feel well, you still do great work. Trust you will be better soon.

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On 07/28/2012, Brenda Kula-Pruitt said ...

Haven't been to a Crackle Barrel in awhile. But they always had really good breakfasts.
Brenda

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On 07/29/2012, laura said ...

Glad to hear the fibro is a little more manageable. Loving my kitchen block, finished the living room as I am quilting as I go. You certainly get a lot done!

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On 07/30/2012, Kai said ...

I SO much enjoyed reading your last few posts! (Love that photo of Ms. Sophie-Sweety!) And I'm EXTRA glad your Fibro is not troubling you so badly right now. I did get your message - and I'm truly not ignoring you (or Courtney!!!) I've just been working so many jobs & soooo many HOURS a week, plus exercising an hour a day, PLUS doing my regular household stuff that I became exhausted & had sort of a Bipolar meltdown. I'm still teaching summer school (4 more weeks) & editing (I've been bombarded this past month) but I've opted to NOT teach any more Michael's classes or Barnes & Noble writing workshops until after Christmas. AND I'm trying something very unusual. It's called SLEEPING EVERY NIGHT. Sigh ... ! So now you will be stuck with me on your blog. Poor Susan! LOVE YOU!!!
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Foggy Friday

...and I'm not talking about the weather. 

I visited with my family practice doctor, Dr. M., yesterday. I needed some prescription renewals, and also the fibro flare had become so severe, I needed relief. I gave up on rheumatologists several years ago and started relying on Dr. M. for help.

"How are you feeling?" asked Dr. M. after he had said hello.

"Do you want the truth?" asked I.

"I do," he answered.

"I feel like hell."

Dr. M laughed, but then the talk turned serious. He asked me to explain, which I did. He was extremely sympathetic, a quality that I love about the good Dr. M. He assured me that he understands how chronic pain can take the life out of your life. He explained that he was going to run a number of blood tests to make sure my thyroid was behaving, my Vitamin D level was sufficient, and nothing new had cropped up. He also told me that I have a bunch of sinus congestion and drainage, which I already knew.

I asked Dr. M. if I could have something for pain a little stronger than ibuprofen. I had taken 800 mg. the night before and it hadn't touched the pain. He agreed and sent me home with a prescription for Tramadol (Ultram). Thus the fog this morning. It has been so long since I've taken Tramadol or any prescription pain med, that I forgot about the Tramadol hangover, which I always have after taking the stuff.

I took the pill when I went to bed. After a while, it helped with the pain, but I had a hard time going to sleep. Now I'm all groggy and sleepy. Can't get totally awake, although I've been up for almost 3 1/2 hours, having been awakened by Skipper barking at something outside.

But the pain is much lessened. So I guess I can deal with the pain or deal with the groggy. For now, I choose groggy. I probably should just go back to bed for the day and let the Tramadol wear off. But that's no fun. I think I'll try to do a little work in the sewing room first, then maybe take an afternoon nap. Naps are very popular around here, especially with the furry folks.

Today is my baby sister's birthday. Happy Birthday, Trois (Ramey). I was planning to ask you out for dinner tonight. If the fog goes away, I still probably will.

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On 07/27/2012, Pam Bump said ...

Aww, hang in there. I know you are on my daily prayer list and I am positive that a lot more out here are doing the same. Take it a day at a time! Hugs!!

Pam
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Sweetheart Houses

Look what I received in the mail yesterday: the first kit in the Sweetheart Houses block of the month from ShabbyFabrics.com. 

Is anybody else doing out there making this quilt. It was just so charming that I couldn't pass it up. I signed up for it several months ago, and have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of my first block. Houses, hearts, flowers, lady bugs, pinwheels--some of my favorite things. And the colors are perfect.

The words "block of the month" remind me that I still have to make my next Dollhouse Challenge block and also work some more on the BQG Pinwheel block of the month. And of course there are tons of other things waiting for my attention, things I've mentioned so often, I need not mention them again, so I won't. But I best be getting to some of them.

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On 07/25/2012, Linda Volz said ...

Hi Susan -
I saw the Sweetheart Houses BOM ad in one of my quilting mags and thought it was just so cute. I hope when you complete it you will post a picture of is so we all can see it. I've always wanted to do a BOM project but I'm just not disciplined and focused enough. I wish you happy sewing on your new project. Do let us have a peek when it's finished ok?
Blessings to you.
Linda

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On 07/25/2012, Mountain Musings said ...

Hi Susan, you picked a pretty BOM to work on. I saw it, too, and really liked it. But just too many other things in the works to add something new...I might decide to do the Great Granny quilt along. Deb

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On 07/26/2012, sillysally said ...

Now those are some adorable BOM house blocks! Lots of little applique and embroidery details that would drive me nuts, but will look so pretty when finished.

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On 08/10/2012, Ineke said ...

My personal favorite! Love it!
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Sampler Progress and Stuff

I actually got a good bit of work done yesterday on the Pinwheel Sampler Quilt--no sewing, but a lot of drafting blocks and getting first drafts of instructions written. Today I hope to get more done. Maybe some block construction and in-process photography.

I also have to find a plumber, as I have a broken toilet. Fortunately, I have two others in my house--toilets, not plumbers. I haven't been able to get in touch with the plumber that we've used in the past. Some person who sounds like a teenager always answers the phone and says the plumber isn't in but he will have him call, which he never does. Guess I'll have to go with an unknown.

And I have to make a trip to the drug store. I do not relish the idea of going out in this sauna bath weather. Even watering my flowers in the late afternoon is enough to render me soaked with perspiration and drained of energy. But go I must.

As my friend Julie reminded me on the day of our reunion meeting, my roses are in dire need of deadheading. What mean person was it who told me that knockout roses need absolutely no care? Well, they were so very wrong. Already this year, I've dealt with mold and beetles and humongous amounts of watering. And now deadheading? Who knew?

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On 07/24/2012, Brenda Kula-Pruitt said ...

I know. I doubt there's any plant/flower that needs "no care." Good luck with the plumber.
Brenda
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Whoa, Nellie!

The business that has become my life in the past couple of weeks is leaving me little time for my favorite occupations, quiltmaking, blogging, gardening. I don't know what it is: every time I think I'm going to have a little time to do something fun, some other thing or another comes up that I have to attend to. And attending to things, whatever they are, wears me out, so then I have to take a break. Attending to stuff and breaks; that has been my life lately.

In addition to all the distractions, my knee is still paining me greatly (as well as my back, as usual, and the fibro). I've done all the things that have been recommended to me (epsom salt baths, apple cider vinegar, rest, exercise) except for Ramey's suggestion of eating salad for breakfast. But that will probably be next.

So far, today has been quiet. Nobody has called with a request, nothing in the house has broken, nobody has shown up at the door to visit. But the day is relatively young. Assuming things stay quiet, I'm going to work on the Block of the Month Pinwheel Sampler Quilt design today. I'm so far behind on that, it's scary.

I got out this morning early and took a few pictures before the heat and humidity drove me back inside.

Garden Girl

Orange zinnias

Encouraged by liberal waterings, everything continues to grow and thrive in our not-so-secret garden.

A thrift store find

Blessed Mother Mary

Marigold

Fairy Petunias

This past week has also brought goodies, not just distractions. Below are some of them.

 

My friend Julie, when she learned I love red, went through her treasures and brought me this darling little dress...

...and this calico bear, all gussied up with a striped necktie.

And Ramey found this cute, kitchy, and very sparkly rhinestone keychain at a yard sale and got it for me. The S and R (for Susan Ramey) are very prominent. The C (for Cleveland) is a little harder to see--because it wasn't supposed to be there, I think. But we've found two Cs, so far. Do you see them?

I'm going to go now and see if I can get a smattering of something done before a distraction lights at my front door. Happy Monday, all. 

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On 07/23/2012, Brenda said ...

I love your photos today, especially of the daisies. They are my favorite flower! All your treasures and gifts are just perfect to put a smile on my face. You have sweet and caring friends. I hope you start feeling better soon. I have heard that Live Cell Therapy is suppose to be good for Fibro. It's an under-the-tongue spray of liquid shark cartilage that can be prescribed by a physician. I don't really know anything about it but it might be worth checking into. I will keep you in my prayers.
Hugs,
Brenda
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Ready for Rest

I spent most of yesterday cleaning up the back porch, and most of last night cleaning house. Five of my high school classmates are coming today. We have to finish up plans and work for our 50th reunion party. The last time we met at my house, the two who smoke went out on the back porch to do so. I was very embarrassed by the condition of the place. So I decided that wouldn't happen again, so I cleaned it up.

The last thing I did last night before falling into bed was vacuum downstairs. Of course today I'm exhausted and everything that can possible hurt hurts. I'm just looking forward to the end of the meeting so I can go to bed.

During all the work, I had this terrific idea for a quilt to make for BQG's next quilt show next summer. I want so bad to get into the sewing room, but I know it won't be today.

A fun use for Rub-Ons

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On 07/20/2012, sillysally said ...

Your back porch looks so lovely and inviting! Can I just sit in that wicker rocking chair and sip my lemonade with you??? I promise to scratch doggie ears so that they won't feel left out.

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On 07/20/2012, Pam Bump said ...

Your porch looks so cute. Hope you get some rest! As for me, trying to finish up Block 1 of Dollhouse, and have the fabric all ready for Block! Hope to send you a picture next week. Hugs!!

Pam

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On 07/20/2012, Barbara Anne said ...

What a charming and welcoming porch you have! I love the rocking chair and think no porch is complete without one. The wicker rocker you have is particularly sweet.

I hope you made notes or a sketch of the quilt you imagined while cleaning your house. I once read something that is all too true:
"Everything has been thought of before; the trouble is to think of it again."

Happily, AMIL came home from rehab. today and, of course, is delighted to be home. She will continue to have PT and a visiting nurse to check her Coumadin levels at home.

Enjoy your rest and when you arise, I hope your spoon supply has been replenished.

Hugs!

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On 07/22/2012, led circuit board said ...

Wow nice porch!its looks really a comfortable place for rest...
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Bubble, Bubble; Boiling Double

A big, bubbling pot of homemade sauce

I haven't done any sewing or blogging the past couple of days. But I sure have done a lot of cooking. Since last night, I have made two key lime pound cakes and two big batches of homemade lasagna. One cake and lasagna is for a friend whose brother passed away on Sunday. The other cake and lasagna is for a sister supper tonight. Both sisters, niece India, and daughter Andy are supposed to show up for dinner. Then Ramey and I are going to watch Morgan Freeman's "Through the Woimhole" (no, I didn't spell it wrong; that's how Morgan says it) at nine.

The photos below are of Ol' Redtale, enjoying a nice ear of corn from one of the feeders I got at Lowes the other day (I got two). Aren't they cute? He has almost finished off that ear. I had trouble getting close enough to him for a good photo because, of course, he would high tale it up the tree whenever he saw me move. 

Yummy, yummy, yummy. I got corn in my tummy.
 

Uh oh! I think she moved. I better skeedaddle.

I'm out'a here. 

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On 07/18/2012, Donna said ...

You have been busy cooking! Sounds yummy!! The squirrel is adorable and I love the chair the corn is on.
Have fun tonight watching Morgan.
Hugs,
Donna

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On 07/18/2012, Barbara Anne said ...

That chair feeder is an absolute hoot!! Clearly, Mr. Redtail is happy for such a comfy place to sit for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks!! If you have chairs like that but are larger on the porch, you may have his company there, too.

When is dinner going to be served?? I love Key Lime anything and lasagna is another favorite. Would you please post the Key Lime cake recipe?

We also enjoy Morgan Freeman's show.

Hugs!

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On 07/19/2012, Thelma said ...

That squirrel looks like he's been eating corn while sitting on a chair his whole life! Its't that just the funniest thing!

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On 07/19/2012, sillysally said ...

Ha ha! That is one cute bird feeder / mini chair! It looks as if 'ol Redtail is having himself a feast! Love that you were able to get the photos that you did.

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On 07/19/2012, ERIKA said ...

Lots of sweet cuteness.. love the pics. sweet blog.

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On 07/20/2012, Lisa A said ...

That squirrel sitting in that chair is the funniest thing! He needs a tiny beer to go along with his corn.
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First Dollhouse Blocks Are Here

One of us in the Dollhouse Quiltalong, Jan, finished her living room block by the first scheduled deadline; two of us, Mona and me, almost finished ours, just a little embroidery left to do. I'll show these three blocks, as that's all the photos I have received.

This is Jan's block. She says she's having trouble with her machine zigzag, but I gotta tell you, I can't find a thing wrong with her block. I love it. And her dimensional flowers are fantastic.

Mona's block is a cutie. I love the fabrics she chose. And her work on the HSH sign is so much neater than mine.
 

And here's mine, with the flower stems and leaves and the HSH sign hanger penciled in and ready to embroider. I also haven't done my girl's face (I haven't given her a name yet) or blanket stitched her arms and legs.
 

Since there are eight of us in the quiltalong, I know there are five more quilters out there sewing away. Maybe by next deadline, August 15, we'll get to see some of their work. But remember, no quilt police, so if you want to finish at your own pace instead of following deadlines, that's perfectly all right. Show us your progress when it occurs.

"Love Birds" is now officially completely and totally finished. This weekend, I made and attached a hanging sleeve and a label. I wanted to show you the label because this is the first one like it I've made. It's an envelope. Blogless Barbara gave me the idea a while back. If you'd like to see house I made it, go HERE.

I'm going to call the bride's grandmother (my friend Edna, who asked me to make the quilt) and see if she'll be home today so that I can deliver it. I have scads of other stuff to do. And while I felt like death warmed over yesterday, today, except for my knee, I'm feeling pretty good. That knee is still a problem. As long as I'm still, it's doesn't hurt too much; but as soon as I start standing or walking, oh golly molly, it hurts. I know I need to stay off of it until it recovers, but there's just too much to do. If I let these physical challenges start to control my life any more than they already do, I won't have a life. So I choose to press on.

Happy Monday to all.

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On 07/16/2012, Helen in Switzerland said ...

The dollhouse blocks are just absolutely adorable - I can't wait to see how they all turn out!!

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On 07/16/2012, Sandy said ...

Rub some apple cider vinegar on that knee!! I know it sounds crazy but I promise you it works!! Congrats on finishing that wallhanging. I know you're relieved to have that behind you. Now go get that vinegar and feel better! Because you might smell kinda picklely, you might want to just hang around the house for a while! Who cares if it helps, right? Have a great week Susan. From hot, humid, hazy South Carolina, Sandy

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On 07/16/2012, Barbara Anne said ...

Love the three doll house blocks and applaud Jan, Mona, and you on your cute blocks!!! Applause!!!!! I cannot wait to see the doll house blocks being made by others when each is ready for its debut.

Cheers on having the Love Birds quilt ready for delivery, label and all!! I'm glad you found a perfect use for the envelope label!

Today we spent a bit over 8 hours in the car going to and back from Radford, VA where DS2 is moving in two weeks. We met his flatmate and got to see the new apartment - and take a bazillion measurements.

I am spoonless and didn't turn on my computer until 8p.

Hugs!

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On 07/19/2012, laura said ...

Got my computer back from the Dr. and am so excited to see everyones house blocks- mine is on the way and have started composing the kitchen.
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Garden Walk

I have done boocoodles of work in my backyard this year, as you know. There's still way much to be done, but I just have to show off some of the progress. Remember, though, it ain't Bellengrath, but it's home.

The sink planter is doing great. The impatiens have almost obscured the old plate.

I wonder if the Creeping Jenny (thanks, Mary Jo) will reach the ground before growing season ends.

I found this little birdie at Cracker Barrell on sale.

I've added a dragonfly stepping stone...

...and a butterfly stepping stone...

...to the pathway where the bee stepping stone lives.

This little turtle keeps watch over kitty Lucy's resting place.

Baby Petunias

Hope is evidence of things not seen.

Our resident gastropod

I love dragonflies...

...and bluebirds...

...and hummingbirds (can you see him?).

But the squirrels don't always use it.

Nandina fairies live here.

Garden bunny

Scabbers Ratso, the garden rodent

Dragon Boy

And this disgraceful area is where I'm going to create...

...this. There's already English Ivy, a pink azalea, and a holly (which is going to go). I just have to gather pots, spagnum, and something to sit my pot people on.

Happy Saturday, everyone. I'm linking with Beverly's Pink Saturday Blog Party. That's always a fun place to go on Saturday.

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On 07/14/2012, Joanne said ...

I'm overwhelmed with admiration! You'll have to think of a good "garden" name for your place. I love Ratso and the other creatures.

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On 07/14/2012, Barbara Anne said ...

Lovely, lovely, lovely!!!!!!!!! We have just empty flower pots hither and thither adorning (not so much) our yard. Where do you find those wonderful treasures to add such charm to your garden?

We have had glorious and much needed rain off and on all afternoon! Thanks be to God!!!!!

Hugs!

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On 07/14/2012, Jan S. said ...

What a fun garden!

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On 07/14/2012, Donna said ...

Your garden is beautiful! Love all your little creatures. I want to make the flower pot people soon myself. So glad for the rain we had!
Hugs
Donna

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On 07/14/2012, Pam Bump said ...

Thank you for sharing pics of your wonderful garden. Very inspirational!! Hope you are feeling better!! Hugs!

Pam

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On 07/15/2012, Susie said ...

I just discovered your blog today and really enjoyed seeing your pretty plants and wonderful garden decor ideas. I hope your knee feels normal again soon.

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On 07/16/2012, Liberty said ...

Verry lovely.

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On 07/19/2012, laura said ...

Love how the little treasures of your garden are scattered throughout. What a neat place.

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On 08/01/2012, Eve said ...

Your garden looks very inviting and comforting.
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