Going Deep

"Be sure to choose what you believe and why you believe it, because if you don’t choose your beliefs, you may be certain that some belief, and probably not a very credible one, will choose you."
-- Robertson Davies

"You gotta serve somebody." --Bob Dylan 

With all the hoop-de-doo going on on tv and Facebook, and even at neighborhood gatherings, I find myself sometimes wondering if I'm wrong and they're right, those with whom I radically disagree, especially those I love and care for.

This morning I was reading some posts on Facebook and wondering that very thing. And the thought came to me, you have to decide what you believe. Nobody else can do that. You have a brain and a heart. Use them.

Immediately, as I scrolled down the page, I came upon the Robertson Davies quote, posted by Dawn Goldsmith: writer, quilter, and FB friend. I began to ponder. Since I believe in messages from God, I took this as one. Not that I have any misgivings about what I believe, but sometimes I think it's prudent to sit down, get quiet, and really think about what one believes. I know a lot of people (me included, probably) just rhetorically spout beliefs without even understanding what they're saying or knowing if that's something they really do believe. I think we should all examine our beliefs from time to time.

Religiously and spiritually speaking, I try to base all my beliefs on the words and examples of Jesus, because as Bob Dylan said, "You gotta serve somebody." Jesus is my rock and my savior, my role model. If it's contrary to what Jesus said (and here I'll get controversial),  even if it comes from the Bible, then it doesn't fit my beliefs. For instance, Jesus lived and preached LOVE. The God of the Old Testament, as presented in the Bible, was a god of violence. While I'm open to the possibility that there's an explanation for that, I don't know what it is. So I choose to go with Jesus's teachings and base my beliefs on love.

I think it's easy for some people to use that apparent contradiction in God's character to justify their contradictory beliefs. For instance, many of my friends say they believe all life is sacred. Therefore if a person is politically pro-choice, that's evidence to them that the person is evil. But those same people who say all life is sacred would not hesitate to squash a bug, shoot a deer, or send their children to war against a person or idea that they believe is evil. That's a contradiction to me that, so far, nobody has been able to explain.

But anyway, before I go and lose all my readers who disagree with me, I'd like to put down just a few of my beliefs, both spiritual and wordly. This is for me, something I feel I need to do. So in the tradition of Jeff Foxworthy:

1. I believe that Jesus was the son of God. I believe I'm a daughter of God and heir to all that Jesus went to prepare.

2. I believe that we are commanded to love every single human being on earth, no matter their race, no matter their religion, no matter their color or political party, no matter if they're murderers or missionaries. This, according to my friend Jesus, is the second most important thing we must do after loving God totally.

3. I believe dogs go to Heaven. (Kitties too--all God's creatures.)

4. I believe that a cup of coffee in the morning is a joy of life.

5. I believe flowers are messages from God, not just some plant's genitals.

6. I believe music comes from the spirit and is a language all its own.

7. I believe all things, including us, in the Universe are connected physically.

8. I believe there is more in our reality that we can't see than that we can.

9. I believe a Chick-fil-a vanilla milkshake is the most delicious thing on earth.

10. I believe in angels, although I'm not sure just what they are.

11. I believe that skin color, just like hair color, is a physical trait. That's all. It has nothing to do with a person's character.

12. I believe people should be able to speak any language they damn well choose.

13. I believe that we were put here as stewards of the earth, not owners of it.

14. I believe that sin is hurting one of God's creations.

15. I believe that art, music, and craft are efforts to immitate God. Remember we were made in his image.

16. I believe "made in his image" means, not that we look like him/her/it (remember, God is not a human) but that the spirits that are within us are godlike.

17. I believe that God is huge and that we are tiny.

18. I believe God loves us with a love that we can't understand but that we attempt to immitate in our love for our family and friends.

19. I believe that the resources of the earth are here for all creatures, not just us.

20. I believe in evil. That is, I believe evil exists. I believe that war, injustice, racism, or any form of hatred is an expression of evil.

21. I believe that God has a plan for all people on earth and that none of us will suffer because of the cultures we've been brought up in. People of other faiths are his children too.

22. I believe Sophie is worrying the dickens out of me.

23. I believe Hally Berry and Ashley Judd are two of the most beautiful women who ever lived.

24. I believe home should be a sanctuary.

25. I believe rainfall soothes my soul.

26. I believe our bodies age, but our souls mature.

27. I believe we have lost much of what we used to be in modern devices such as telephones, televisions, automobiles, and airplanes. These separate us from Nature and the Universe. The Amish have that right.

28. I believe that whatever and whoever God is, he is eternally bound up in light.

29. I believe that justice is a God thing.

30. I believe pink is the most soothing color and yellow is the happiest.

And finally, I believe that if you disagree with any of my beliefs, it makes no difference in your worth. And it makes no difference in my love for you. You are my equal no matter what you serve.

I believe other things too. But if I don't get up now and take Sophie outside, she's going to stage a revolt.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/03/2010, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Lovely Susan, just lovely...I so enjoyed reading this post. In fact I'm going to print it out and keep it for future reference. I particularly like your take on Jesus and the New Testament - which I completely agree with.

Can I add one and disagree with one?

Add: I believe that if we could understand everything about God, then he wouldn't be God. Some things are just too big for mere mortals to get to grips with.

Disagree: I believe that blue is way more soothing than pink, but I'm right with you on yellow.

Now we only need to work out what's eating Miss Sophie..

Lol, Helen

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On 06/03/2010, Julie in WA said ...

Thanks, Susan, for a great post. I love #15...Our God is a creative God, and being made in His image means that we are created to be creative people. Learning this has freed me to push beyond quilting "rules" and push my quilty thinking outside the box. It has been liberating and exciting and FUN! Soli Deo Gloria

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On 06/03/2010, linda schiffer said ...

I"m right there with you (with the minor exception of #4 -- I believe God gave me fine taste buds so I can reject nasty tastes:). Go girl!!

:) Linda

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On 06/03/2010, Linda F. said ...

I love reading your blog. I try to teach my children respect. If we all could just respect each other's beliefs, the world would be a nicer place. On another note, my youngest daughter is a bunny collector so she sure enjoys seeing all your bunnies!

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On 06/03/2010, Elizabeth said ...

I wish more people held your view of Jesus and his teachings. I think he was pretty clear, and the rest just muddies the waters and gives people reason to hate. Thank you, Susan, for choosing love.

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On 06/03/2010, mom2fur said ...

This is so wonderful to read. I've never had the pleasure of a Chik-fil-A (sp?) vanilla shake, but I bet I'd agree with you!
I hope Sophie will be okay. I'm sure she misses her daddy. Sometimes, animals are such an enigma. If only they could talk!
I'm sure you can already guess I agree animals go to heaven! How could anything with so much unconditional love in it not be rewarded?

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On 06/03/2010, Ruth said ...

A wonderful post, Susan. Like Helen I'm going to print it for future reference and thought, and following your example will try to sort out my own beliefs more clearly.
Sophie is certainly keeping life exciting for you.
Ruth

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On 06/03/2010, KAI said ...

I believe people who think everyone of and from 'The South' is backwards and prejudiced better come read your blog and get to know you, Courtney, and me. I believe you & I were connected through Anita's blog for a good darned reason. I believe I am extremely lucky to know you! And I CHOOSE to believe Sophie is going to finish going through her lil' naughty stage soon & be a well-behaved doggy again. LOVE YOU! And thank you for this beautiful, insightful post!

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On 06/03/2010, Plain and Joyful Living said ...

This is wonderful. I agree and thank you.
Warm wishes, Tonya

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On 06/03/2010, CarlaH said ...

Well Susan, I agree with most but have difficulty with a few - but that is just me. As you say, we are all entitled to our opinions and those should not make any difference to others when considering our worth. Wouldn't the world be dull we if were all the same. Hope Sophie snaps out of her "mood" asap.

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On 06/03/2010, Jan said ...

Beautiful post Susan; and without a doubt, our furbabies go to Heaven :) The Bible says so :)

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On 06/03/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Amen, plus a few!

Heck of a day here with no brain left, so will just add a storm is moving in, a cat is still outside because she hasn't come when called (and she's frightened by thunder) and FIL's angioplasty is tomorrow.

Love and hugs!

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On 06/03/2010, charlie beagle said ...

I still find it hard to love someone like Hitler etc. I think the devil takes on many personalities and I do not love the devil. I also do not go along with the current fashion of doing whatever feels good and never mind the consquences.

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On 06/04/2010, Kelly Ann said ...

amen sista....

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On 06/04/2010, crazymema said ...

WOW -- I've been enjoying your posts for a while but this was awesome. I probably disagree with a few and/or haven't thought about the subject(s) of even more of them but I REALLY needed to read that this morning due to some very crazy, crazy work stuff going on that I've been left to handle. It calmed me down and I think I can get on with the job now. Thank You!

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On 06/04/2010, Mary said ...

Other than knowing Sophie, I do too. I have a stitchery in my bathroom that I see first thing in the morning that says "God bless everyone & every creature in the world, NO EXCEPTIONS."

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On 06/04/2010, AnnieO said ...

It is great to read your beliefs and be glad that there is such a thing as blogland to introduce us to people of all kinds and find value in what they share. Thanks for sharing your beliefs and your humor, faith and emotion. Now get a kid to walk that dog into tiredness so she'll leave you be!

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On 06/05/2010, molly said ...

I guess I missed this because we were zooing yesterday. I agree wholeheartedly with EVERY thing(almost) you wrote. I'm not big on pink and I don't like milkshakes of any flavor. Green is my favorite soothing color(and happy too) and I'd much rather have a shaved ice/sno-cone than a milkshake!LOL Everything else I was nodding in agreement!!

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On 06/08/2010, gayle said ...

I BELIEVE you have a kind and generous soul.

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On 06/10/2010, lila said ...

Thanks for sharing your beautiful, peaceful and life-giving beliefs!
I really like the one about souls maturing as bodies age!LOL!

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Wednesday Woes and Wonders

Sophie is getting the better of me. She is becoming more and more headstrong as the days go by. I've had to resort to the leash again, which we haven't had to use since she was a puppy, except for travel when we stop somewhere strange for potty breaks.

This morning I took her out, leash in hand but not attached to her collar, to see if she would mind. I've done that several times since her famous runaway last week. I usually have to hook her up before the outing is over. This morning was no exception. She stayed with me a few minutes, then ran up in the little patch of woods behind the house, which has grown to be a veritable thicket.

I called and she wouldn't come. I knew she was digging and that she'd have black dirt between her toes and up her nose. I just bathed her on Sunday after such a dig. I had to climb up through the bushes and brambles to get her. Yes, she was coated in black loam, which I really didn't want in my house.

When I finally reached her, I hooked her up and started out of the thicket. But it seemed that the brambles and briars had grown and enclosed us. I couldn't find the way I had gone in, and I couldn't find an alternate way out without suffering scratches and jabs. So stomping down sapplings and bramble bushes, I slowly led, nay pulled, the Sophinator out of the woods, picked her dirty self up, and carried her inside and up the stairs for another bath. I think by the time we got to the upstairs bathtub, I had more black dirt on me than she had on her.

I'm not as exhausted as I would normally be after such an experience, so I think I'll do a little more work in my kitchen before I have to get ready to go for my doctor visit. I'm seeing my orthopedic surgeon to see if he might now have some kind of remedy for my ever increasing lower back problem. Wish me luck.

But first, here are a few photos of my slowly evolving garden.

My Lori Lilies are finally opening their buds, which have been hanging there for over a month.

A garden gnome for my stone pathway.

This Endless Summer hydrangea is showing its stuff.

Mr. Potter & Friend

A toad abode

Years ago, I bought a tiny pot of English Ivy and planted it beside my back walkway. It was really just a  sprig. It has taken over that side of the walk and is spilling over.

While painting, Joe moved a stack of dishes and broke one of my Mason Vista cups. He was very apologetic, but I told him not to worry because I has lots of them. Plus now I had this pretty ornament for my flower bed.

These shoes are definitely ready for the trash bin. But I love them, and Wal-Mart no longer carries them.

Happy Wednesday, everyone.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/02/2010, Ruth said ...

I think Sophie and Gretchen need a day alone to really explore Leeds Albabama ; with cameras attached to their heads you would have quite the video for utube!
Hope the Dr. has good news for you.
Ruth

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On 06/02/2010, Loribelle said ...

Lori Lillies, I LOVE IT!! I am anxiously awaiting a report from the doc.

Do we need to keep Soph for a couple days? ;-) Love you Su Su.

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On 06/02/2010, Thelma said ...

Your garden pictures are lovely, thanks so much for sharing....the cup in the flowers.....love it!!

I guess that Sophie's going to be on lead for awhile....

I hope the Dr has good news for you today!!

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On 06/02/2010, anita said ...

Maybe it's time to think about a backyard fence for Sophie? Gorgeous lilies!

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On 06/02/2010, Helen said ...

Are those rubber garden clogs? I have a pair of solid red rubber ones that I love, and they can sometimes be found on my feet at the grocery store and other "ungarden" places. Check out this site for cute ladybug clogs...http://www.clogsonline.com/IBS/SimpleCat/Product/asp/product-id/870785.html
Even with pain your energy level is inspiring for me....hopefully there is a solution for you other than just having to deal with the ongoing discomfort. Bad Sophie :-)

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On 06/02/2010, KAI said ...

UH-OH! Guess I was a bit quick yesterday when I said Sophie needed to teach Gretchen how to behave. They BOTH could use some time-out in the naughty-doggy corner! As for your garden - WOW! My favorite things are the cup (tho' I'm sorry it was broken, it certainly looks beautiful there!) and the Hydrangeas! Luscious! Don't you over-do, sweet girl! And let us know what the doc says, okay? LOVE YOU!

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On 06/02/2010, AnnieO said ...

Such pretty flowers and garden decorations. Thanks for the tour. Sophie is playing top dog this spring and loving it, apparently, after being closed up for the winter!

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On 06/02/2010, MarieSews said ...

The lilies are gorgeous. The cup in the garden....how creative and resourceful! I never would have thought of that one but it's a great way to recycle and retain the beauty of the cup in a useful and decorative way.

Is Sophie going through adolescence by proclaiming her independence, maybe? Hopefully it's "just a phase". Take care

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On 06/02/2010, Trudy Neill of Windemere Farm said ...

Any chance that Sophie is reacting to major changes in the house, resulting in loss of scent of Vann? The new couch and furniture, the painting....just a thought.

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On 06/02/2010, Nicole said ...

Sophie is a Stinker Pie, that is for sure. I would not trust my Sophie off leash for a hot second. And Ozzie is even worse.
Love the hydrangeas--my favorite flower along with roses. But your garden shoes...Oh I am lusting after those!

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On 06/02/2010, Linda Raycraft said ...

This is my first visit to your blog...love your little Sophie. She has a mind of her own I think. I love the garden gnome step stone. I have gnomes hiding all about my garden. I am new to blogging and reading your posts was too much fun! Good luck with your back and thanks for sharing!

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On 06/02/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Ah, Sophie is in the doghouse! I'd keep her on a leash for a while and it's her choices that have made it necessary.

Love your garden decorations and I'd really love a gnome stone. Where did you find it?

8 hours at the hospital today. FIL did well with the cardiac cath but is to have an angioplasty tomorrow. Good thoughts and prayers appreciated.

Hugs!

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On 06/02/2010, kayellen said ...

Aaahhh Sophie!! You are to cute!! I understand ~~~Gracie takes off too~~ she runs right for the park everytime I don't have her on a leash.
Thank goodness my neighbors all love her and help me chase her down~~~if my teens are not home
I think it is a schaunzer thing:)

I have gardening clogs too! My daughter says I need to trash mine but I still love them!

Have a good rest of the week:)

Kay

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On 06/02/2010, Charlene said ...

Be patient with Sophie. Remember she is grieving for Vann as well.
Love your hard work to the house.

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On 06/02/2010, Donna said ...

I love the Sophie stories! Animals are too funny although I know it is not funny at the time!
Your flowers are all lovely and I love the teapot in the flower bed.
Hope your Dr. appt goes well.
Blessings,
Donna
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A Thrifting We Did Go

THIS DOG TRIED TO KILL ME!!!! (Details later.)

I started out yesterday with the best of intentions. I was not going to give up until I had my kitchen organized and straightened up. I was even employing The Fly Lady's kitchen timer idea. I was really getting 'er done. Had cleaned out and organized all but one of my kitchen drawers and boiled, pealed, and polished my copper tea kettle (more about that later) when my sister Ramey telephoned. She suggested we share an outing to our favorite thrift store. How could I turn her down? She needed companionship. So off I went, leaving behind my still messy kitchen and the timer still ticking. Sorry, Fly Lady.

We had a great day and scored some marvelous treasures. Ramey got the best one, a beautiful framed rabbit print. No pic; I didn't have my camera with me. But I got some good stuff too.

One thing I was searching for was something to hold the mail neatly on my newly painted bill-paying desk. I found the pretty little brass mail holder. Here it is after I shined it up with some Brasso.

I like to show off little areas of my house that are neat and organized, like my bill-paying desk.

Naturally, when I saw this terra cotta rabbit flower pot, I had to have it...

...as well as this sweet little concrete plaque that I'll hang somewhere outside in "my garden."

For all the years that we've lived in The Yellow House, the light fixture on the stairwell has been naked--no globe. I found this pretty one yesterday at the thrift store and bought it, hoping it would fit. It does.

I also found a pretty framed print of cardinals to hang in the stairwell with my other bird prints; and also a framed cottage print to hang with the cottage collection that will grace one of the walls in the dining room. Haven't photographed them yet.

I have some other things to show that I didn't get at the thrift store.

Above are my new pink Fostoria iced tea goblets, purchased at Ebay for a good price.

And look at this beautiful thing that I just found in my mailbox this morning. It's from my sweet (step) daughter Amy who lives in Portland, Oregon. No reason--she just saw it and said it jumped up and started screaming my name. I'm glad it did. This might be one of the prettiest things I've ever owned. I can't wait to go someplace to wear it.

Thank you, Amy. You're a sweetheart, and I'm very blessed to have you in my life.

Now, if you're still interested, here's how my sister's dog Gretchen tried to kill me yesterday. Gretchen is part Jack Russell and part Tasmanian Devil. If she gets out of the house off leash, she'll run away, and Ramey will eventually get a call from someone across town to come get the dog. I think everyone in Leeds is acquainted with Gretchen by now.

When I pulled up at my sister's house yesterday, Gretchen was lying in the driveway. When I got out of the car, she came right up to me. I grabbed her collar, knowing that might be the last chance anybody had to capture her for days. She didn't like it, but I had a firm grip. She's a strong little dickens, even though she isn't much bigger than Sophie. As I pulled her up the walkway, she pulled in the opposite direction. I was making progress when somehow my feet or legs or something gave way and I started down. I could see Gretchen in the very spot where I was likely to land. I knew if I fell on her, I would like do great damage to myself and the dog.

Whump I went, into the grass and four o'clock bush, but somehow Gretchen managed to avoid being sqooshed. And somehow I managed to keep my grip on her collar. In all the commotion, I heard my niece India's voice: "Suzie, what are you doing?"

If I'd had my composure just then, I could have made some smart-ass answer like: "Looking for leprecaun eggs." But I was too rattled. I don't think I said anything.

India took hold of Gretchen and got her in the house after helping me to my feet. I was smeared with dirt and grass and four o'clock leaves. And I was most embarrassed. (Why does a fall embarrass one so?)

My sister was out by that time, and she gave me a look like What in blazes are you up to now? But all she said was, "You act just like Mama."

I brushed myself off, determined that nothing was broken (except a few four o'clock limbs) and we skeedaddled on to the thrift store. But lo, there was more excitement to come.

After our thrifting, we went to a local BBQ joint for some excellent pig and potatoes. We arrived back at Ramey's house just as a humongous thunderstorm struck. It was raining so hard we couldn't even see through the windshield with the wipers on. The wind was blowing the big trees above Ramey's house in half, and we were sore afraid.

But we couldn't get out of the car; we might have been drowned before we reached the front door. So we sat out the storm, about 30 minutes of torrential rain, thunderous lightening, and scary winds.

And that's how I spent my Memorial Day.

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This post was migrated from the old blog. To see the comments on the original post, CLICK HERE. To add a new comment, click "Post a Comment", below.

On 06/01/2010, Molly said ...

LOVELOVELOVE the lampshade. And the goblets, and the necklace, and the garden plaque... and the fact that a certain dog did NOT cause you a broken hip or worse!!! They don't call them Jack Russell Terrorists for nothin'!!

Molly

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On 06/01/2010, Ruth said ...

What a marvellous Thrift Store you must have, all those lovely finds. Gretchen really sounds like quite the character; I think she'd do well living in the country. She must know a lot of people in your town!I wonder how Gretchen and Sophie get along.
The necklace that Amy chose for you is beautiful.
Ruth

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On 06/01/2010, Jo said ...

Love all the great finds. Is your thrift store located in Leeds? ....and I know how a little dog can cause so much trouble because I have one of the little devils. Love them one minute and could kill them the next.
Jo

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On 06/01/2010, Beverly said ...

Girl, I'm glad you are okay. I hate falling.

Your living room sofa looks gorgeous, and I love your new pretties.

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On 06/01/2010, Kerrie said ...

Loved this post! Hugs, Kerrie

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On 06/01/2010, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Oh you do make me laugh Susan! There's never a dull moment round at your place! I'm glad you weren't hurt and had a fun day (and successful shopping). And I bet the kitchen was still waiting for you when you got back!
Much love, Helen

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On 06/01/2010, CarlaH said ...

I know too well how Jack Russell's love to roam - my step daughter has one. So glad you weren't hurt by your fall and that the thrift shopping spree made up for it.

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On 06/01/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

SCORE!!!!!! I wanna go thrifting with you! What lovely treasures you'll enjoy for years to come. Love the pink tea glasses, too.

Sorry you took a tumble yesterday, but otherwise, your day was far more fun than cleaning up a kitchen. Good choice!!!!

Hugs!

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On 06/01/2010, Joan said ...

Glad that you survived your encounter with Gretchen. It sounds like you had a very eventful day. Love your thrift shop buys.

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On 06/01/2010, KAI said ...

I tried not to laugh. Honest. The great kitchen cleanup escape DID start me tittering. Ramey's NEEDING companionship in the thrifting adventure made me giggle. (Your fall did NOT make me laugh, but rather sobered me till I knew you were truly okay.) Then you just HAD to say, " ... and we were sore afraid." I could just picture you writing that, tongue-in-cheek, PROUD of yourself! And I cracked up because all I could imagine were you two thrifting angels of the Lord hunkered down in the vehicle during the storm, surrounded only by your purchases. LOL! YOU ARE A DOLL! Sooooo doggoned cute! And NAUGHTY Gretchen! Sophie must teach her some serious manners! LOVE YOUR FINDS, and that Yellow House is really coming along! BIG HUGS!

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On 06/01/2010, Brenda Kula said ...

Sorry, but I'm laughing. One day last summer when they were building the two-story bank across the street, I was walking to my neighbors behind me and just tumbled to the concrete. Even a man in a dump truck on a side street stopped and yelled "Are you okay?" I was mortified! I don't know why we feel that way. Should have been just glad I didn't break my neck. I love your finds!
Brenda

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On 06/02/2010, MarieSews said ...

Lordy woman, you need to write a book. I'm sorry but I was laughing too. You are just too darned good at creating an image in my mind's eye! Thanks for the laugh and I am glad that you didn't break anything...well, except a bit of the four o'clock bush!
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Consider the Cost

I think we often forget that this is not a day to celebrate, but a day to remember, mourn, and honor those young people who have lost their lives in all the wars this nation has fought.

Below is a poem I found at BlogHer. Take a couple of minutes to read it and remember and honor those who never came home as well as those who left parts of themselves "over there."

LAMENT

Our nation's history is creased with war.
The earth cries out with spilled lives,
And bleeds memories of those who once lived --
Our young men and women,
Innocent as new spring grasses,
Earnest, willing,
Devoted to their service, their country.

We sent these children to battle
To fight other mother's children,
To wade through the carnage and brutality
From which we tried to protect them as children.

The same children whose skinned knees we bandaged
Are asked to kill or be killed in our name,
Asked to be heroic, to risk their lives,
To risk death
For us.
And others ask the same of their children,
The ones who will oppose our children.

Oh, perished children of America,
We miss what you could have been,
The lives that could have been full.
You left wives, husbands, lovers, children, parents
behind you, mourning.

Oh, today's dying service men and women,
Even as we read this, you are dying.
We almost cannot take it in --
All the suffering of war, the violence.
We are stricken by your courage, your ability to endure.
You do what we cannot.
You face what we cannot.

Oh, beloved sons and daughters,
The memory of your joy haunts us.
We fend off the need to understand how you died in detail,
As though it would bring us peace to know,
But it just adds to our grief.
Without you, there is no lack of grief.
Grief is a sea we drown in,
It is a breath we can never catch,
It surrounds us at the sound of your names.

You laid down your life for
The combatant next to you,
For us,
For your country.
And we remember you.
We cannot stop remembering you,
Your memory is engraved in our souls.

We want to make sure that you died for something important and right.
It is our obligation to lose you for no less than that.

They handed us a flag when we buried you.
It was done with dignity.
We held it, numb with pain at your loss.
Later we took it out of its box and pressed our cheeks to it,
Remembering you.
Looking for some hint of you, some sign.
But it did not bring you home.

Oh, our scarred children, spouses, brothers, sisters --
You who left only a part of yourself dead "over there",
Who come back hurt in the soul.
War killed your innocence, and you cannot get it back.
You walk the house at night, checking the perimeter.
You have memories that haunt you, of the dead, the dying,
Of the fear that was your life 24/7.
You stay armed and ready.
You never sit with your back to the door.
In a corner of your soul, the war just won't stop.
We mourn with you what you have lost.
We welcome you home, knowing who you are, loving you.
Remembering for you when you cannot remember yourself,
What it was like before the war took part of you away.

Oh brothers, sisters, husbands, wives -
The battles have names - the cities names mark the progress of war -
Antietem, Pearl Harbor, Gettysburg, Atlanta,
Wounded Knee, Gallipoli, Little Big Horn,
Verdun, Khanjahar, Normandy Invasion, Rumaila,
Battle of the Bulge, Inchon, Gulf of Tonkin,
Baghdad.

Your deaths spill dreams for a future with you
Into foreign soils.
We wanted family picnics and reunions,
Quiet nights and celebrations.
We dreamed of holding you,
Gathering at your 80th birthday party.
We wanted you to be a parent, an elder,
A member of the community, the tribe.

Oh Lord,
Be with us as we mourn.
This day is not a day for the hearkening of noble sentiment.
It is for remembering, for feeling the cost of war.
It is for knowing the truth -
That any loss is painful, even loss for a cause.
It is for comforting those who have lost,
The mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers,
Lovers, spouses, children.

This is the day we take silence.
This is the day we let ourselves feel
That every loss diminishes what we could have become,
Even if it was lost in a good cause.
This is the day we feel the other side of grief's coin --
The part that hurts and remembers.

This is the day we feel the price of vigilance.
This is the day we remember
Not to put our beloved ones in harm's way,
Unless we are willing to have this day.
This memory.
This moment
When who they were, and what they could have been,
Shimmers before our eyes, a wish that will never come true.

This is a hard day, Lord.
It aches inside.
May all those who recall sacrifices on this day
Find comfort.

And, may the day come when the losses of war
Are only a distant memory,
And our dream of peace comes true.

~~ Contributing Editor, Mata H.

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On 05/31/2010, Teresa said ...

Reading over your last few blogs. I love what you have done with the living room, and its funny - but blue was always my design color, and recently I have been migrating to reds as well. I wonder if it is because there is more out there in red now? I can so relate to your blog about all the hate, or what I call discontent, in the world. So much going on that we have no control over, and even if we did, I would not know what to do. My husband was out of town this weekend, and I spent much of it at home alone with my sewing. I love to have all the "noise" off in the house, and have some time of quiet and escape from what is going on outside my front door. I am reminded of the verse, "Be still, and know that I am God."

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On 05/31/2010, KAI said ...

What truth is in that poem! It made me cry, and it also made me even MORE grateful that my grandson got home safe & sound. So many children, mothers, fathers, and friends didn't. Blessings to each and every person who served, or is still serving, on our behalf. Thank you! And thank YOU, Susan, for posting the poem!

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On 05/31/2010, Ruth said ...

Thank you for sharing the lovely poem. Its words are vey moving.
Ruth

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On 05/31/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Amen and amen.

Hugs...

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On 05/31/2010, Pat said ...

Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem. I'm so thankful for our freedoms and am reminded not to take them for granted.

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On 05/31/2010, mom2fur said ...

We actually had one town decide not to do a parade because it was too much 'celebration.' I'm not sure I agree with that. I think we are celebrating how great this country is and how lucky we are. As long as we stop to give some thought and/or prayer to the memory of those who's lives were taken for our freedom, celebration has it's place today.
Blessings to all of your family members who have served us.

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On 06/01/2010, Lavender Dreamer said ...

I appreciated this post. I use that phrase...consider the cost..the sacrifice paid for our freedom! I really felt strongly after reading New York by E. Rutherfurd. Enjoy your week, sweet friend! ♥
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Better Red Than Bed

Well, as you can see, Sophie has claimed her spot atop the new couch. Fortunately for the new couch, it is much firmer than the last one and so doesn't squoosh down with her weight. I have also, as you can see, covered it with a big quilt so that neither one of us can get it dirty. The quilt will come off for company. Otherwise it will have to remain part of the decor.

I had to go out yesterday to buy lining for the valance. Could find only a yard or so of the type Daniel wants. So I think I'm just going to ask him to get it from his source and I'll pay him. I hate running all over town looking for one thing. Hancock's says they'll get in more next week, but couldn't tell me what day next week.

While I was out, I made a few purchases for use in the kitchen redo. I plan to work in this kitchen today (if I ever get myself going). I got a couple of rugs (one for in front of the sink, one for in front of Gertrude (my stove); some new towels to hang on gertrude's oven handle; some pretty red quilted cushions for the chairs; and some pretty yellow place mats.

 

I also found a couple more red transferware plates for my dining room shelf. The rooster plate came from Home Goods, and the hollyhock plate came from the flea market mall.

I have never thought of red as a favorite color; but it seems to be becoming just that. Especially when combined with yellow or a creamy pink. I guess our tastes change as the years go by. For most of my life I was definitely a blue fiend.

So we'll see how much work I get done. I don't have high expectations. The back problem is getting worse, making my hips, legs, and ankles very weak and causing strong cramps in my feet. And this morning, if I sit or stand a certain way, my lower back trembles. I'm seeing my ortho surgeon on Wednesday. I'm going to tell him that either he does something (a block, pain pills, or something) or I'm going to be bedridden. I have already been told surgery is not an option. This is getting pretty scary. 

But I do have a cozy king size bed to take to if that should become necessary--and it all decked out with wonderful new yellow beddings combined with older blue ones. I'll be bedridden in style, at least.

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On 05/30/2010, Dee Brownfield said ...

Oh, Susan, it all looks so beautiful!! I have been leaning more towards red myself ... even in clothing!!! Sophie looks so comfortable!!! that's her thumbs up on the new couch!:)
Pink Hugs,
Dee @
deeslittlepinkie

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On 05/30/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi Susan,

What a successful shopping trip you had and what wonderful goodies to enhance your new decor.

Sophie looks too cute! Yes, favorite comfort spots are important to our four legged children. Our living room couch is protected from cats by solid colored beach towels and they are not so pretty but are easily laundered.

My color tastes seem to have changed in recent years, too. My past favorites were pink and green, but red and blue with cream and green have taken over my house.

I hope and pray you feel lots better without any drastic procedure being needed. Would taking a home vacation from decorating be helpful?

Hugs!

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On 05/30/2010, KAI said ...

Your house is just coming along BEAUTIFULLY! You KNOW I love red - still my favorite color - tho', like you, I've added other colors to it since we moved here. Sophie looks VERY content, and I hope YOU remember to climb up on the back of the sofa (so to speak) and get yourself some rest, too. LOVE YOU!

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On 05/30/2010, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Susan, it's looking great! I know you're only showing us photos of the finished parts - but I'm hoping there aren't too many of the still to be tackled parts left!
You take it easy now - we can't be doing with you bedridden. That wouldn't be good at all - although the bed looks pretty!
best wishes, Helen

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On 05/30/2010, Ruth said ...

Love all your new finds. Glad that Sophie likes the new sofa, can't blame you for covering it, the quilt looks nice.
Hope you soon have some relief for your pain, I'll pray that your surgeon has an answer for you.
Hugs Ruth

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On 05/30/2010, Gretchen said ...

Sophie looks very happy on the new couch. I put quilts on my new sofa and chair also to try to keep it nice too. Love the plates you found!

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On 05/30/2010, Stephanie said ...

Couch is beautiful. I love the colors for the kitchen redo. Those plates, are similar to a red toile, which I had in my kitchen. Love it. I think the red with a buttery yellow and that back and white check will be awesome!

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On 05/30/2010, Pat said ...

Very pretty! You've inspired me - the bottom part of my kitchen wall is paneling and I am going to paint it! Take care. We can't do it all in one day. And yes, let Daniel handle the lining if he can. You can save that spoon.

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On 06/03/2010, Jaybird said ...

bbbbbbbut you didn't say where the red RUG came from????? How can this red person have a sorely needed red rug for her kitchen???
Thanks for any information!
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New Sofa Moves In

 
 

 

Well here it is, and I love it. It's even prettier than I had imagined it would be. I managed to get that side of the living room organized enough to photograph, but I'm not showing you the other side.

It's strange to have little bits of my house all prettied up, and other areas look like scenes from one of those Hoarders shows. Oh well, at least the entire house isn't a mess still.

I talked to Daniel yesterday. He has been very ill, and that's why he hasn't been able to finish the chair slipcover. He says he's ok now and plans to finish the work this weekend and bring the chair on Tuesday. It will sit where Sophie and the recliner are in the first photo above. The valance that Daniel will make will go on the bay windows that you can see behind the recliner.

I have a sore throat this morning, mild vertigo, combined with the usual physical problems that I have all the time. So I don't feel too chipper. Plus we have had wonderful rolling thunderstorms all morning, which, along with the puniness, just make me want to go back to bed. But I have several errands to run before I can do that.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. And don't forget to thank a veteran, if you see one. I'm going to make rum cakes for my two veterans/neighbors whose help around here makes my life so very much easier.

 

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On 05/29/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Oh, Susan!!!!!! Your new couch and room arrangement are so pretty! You chose well!!! I hope you'll take time to pause in the LR doorway and look at that side of the room only. Thanks for the photos.

I see Sophie snug in Vann's recliner. Sweet!

Sorry to hear that Daniel has been ill and am glad he's feeling good again.

Be good to yourself as you feel puny and I hope your errands are brief so you can happily bake as the storms go by. What a nice idea to make rum cakes for the two veterans in your neighborhood.

Hugs!

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On 05/29/2010, Judy Scott said ...

so lovely and homely - enjoy !

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On 05/29/2010, KAI said ...

Oh, WOW! Your house is beginning to look like a picture from a home magazine! GORGEOUS! You have a real eye for putting things together! I love how Sophie is sitting there in the recliner as tho' to say, "I guess I'd better park it over here 'cause Mama won't be happy if I get on her new sofa!" LOL! Glad Daniel is better & hope to see the chair sooooon! LOVE YOU!

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On 05/29/2010, Helen in Switzerland said ...

Oh Susan, it's lovely! Worth all the effort! Enjoy!

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On 05/29/2010, Ruth said ...

Susan, your "new' room is looking lovely, makes me want to change my house too. I think you've made fantastic progress, time to sit back and enjoy.
Have a lovely weekend.
Ruth

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On 05/29/2010, Nicole said ...

The new sofa is wonderful and so are the throw pillows! Can't wait to see the new chair and valances.

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On 05/29/2010, sharon said ...

Love it Susan. Very nice. Your room looks so pretty.
We went with a brown sectional instead. But I'm happy and think it will look great in here with our wood floors.
Love your red check though!!!!

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On 05/29/2010, Mary said ...

Good Morning, What a lovely sight for me as I started to look at some blogs the AM! I recently found your blog. I love-love the quilt hanging on the wall behind the sofa - and with the beautiful throw pillows. It is such a pleasing gentle picture of a room that will be loved and love you back. Take care of yourself. I'll be checking back as my time permits. Going on a nice trip to Germany soon. Hugs

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On 05/29/2010, Joanne said ...

The room is beautiful, Suze. You have good taste. That couch looks soooo comfortable, makes me want to take a(nother) nap!

Una

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On 05/29/2010, Alison said ...

Congratulations Susan, your house is really coming together, I'm in awe of all you've accomplished in the short time I've been reading your blog! I love the sofa, the quilt on the wall behind it, the pretty cushions, the beautiful wooden pieces, the paint colour ... all of it!!

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On 05/29/2010, Donna said ...

Susan,
The sofa is lovely! You have been so busy and your house is looking great.
We have had t'storms here too.
Blessings,
Donna

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On 05/29/2010, Lori in SD/NE said ...

just lovely! Magazines will be lining up to feature your house!

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On 05/29/2010, Jen in NY said ...

Oooh, I love it. Red gingham is a beautiful choice. I can't wait to see the chair with it too. It really looks great.

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On 05/29/2010, k&c's mom said ...

Love, love, LOVE the couch! Just perfect with all your other things in that room. Laughed at your comment about the room being half pretty/half like something from the hoarder's show. You have described my remodeling since loosing my husband last summer. Sometimes it feels more like shoveling the rooms out since there is so much to go through. Glad you have a cozy nook to rest in until everything else is finished. Press on!

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On 05/29/2010, Valerie said ...

Oh I love the sofa! It is gorgeous. I hope you feel better soon.

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On 05/30/2010, Stephanie said ...

Hi Susan,

Your couch is just wonderful! That red check is the cat's meow! The quilt you hung behind it really compliments it nicely. Your cushions and other furnishings are just right. It really looks great!

I hope the weather dries up and you are feeling better soon!

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On 05/30/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

p.s. I forgot to ask what your plans are for the bay window area? That's in addition to the valance and curtains, of course.

Hope you're feeling lots better today!

Hugs!

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On 07/26/2011, franklin recliners said ...

You have choosed the best sofa. It suits your interior nicely. You choice of color makes a lot of difference to your living room.
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A Better Day Dawned

First thing: I want to thank every one of you for your caring and your words of advice. Please know that I take all of it to heart. And I'm acting on most of it.

1. No more news for me, at least for a while. 
2. No more social networking where politics are involved. 
3. Slow down on the house renovation. It will get done when it gets done. 
4. Explore alternative treatments for fibromyalgia.
5. And keep my eye on the prize, the God who sustains me.
6. Remember to let God handle the problems that I have no control over.

I really do feel better today, thanks especially to all of you. I got out of the house yesterday afternoon, did a little browsing through our local flea market mall. Just being away from here, where all the work awaits me, made me feel tons better. And after, I dropped by Chick-fil-A for a vanilla shake, which REALLY made me feel better.

 

So now I want to show you some progress I've made in my living room. Remember the old window that I bought at the thrift store? I ordered a piece of fabric from the same Waverly line as the striped fabric that Daniel will use to make my valence. I glued the fabric to a piece of foam core and stapled it to the back of the old window. That's the result above in the photo of my mantle.

And above is a photo of the quilt I hung in the living room to go with the new color scheme. I bought this vintage quilt several years ago at a yard sale in Mountain Brook. I paid $25 for it and still feel guilty for practically stealing it. The woman who sold it to me could tell me only that it was at least 50 years old and her grandmother made it. I believe it was probably made from one of those prestamped cross-stitch quilt kits, probably in the 50s. Anyway, I love it. The hand quilting, which you can see in the photo below, is amazing. There are some worn places as well as one pretty noticeable stain, but these defects hardly detract from the quilt's charm.

I just now had a call from a delivery man who has my new sofa on his truck. He will be delivering it sometime today. He promised to give me a 30-minute warning before he gets here. So I'll go now and clear out the spot in front of this quilt where the sofa is going to go. Photos later.

 

 

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On 05/28/2010, Loribelle said ...

I have an old window pane like yours but sanded and refinished it to match the wood in my guest room. I wanted to somehow press flowers behind each pane but you, my dear, have given me a new and much-easier-sounding idea!! Thanks, you're awesome!!
Can't wait to see your new couch. Hope that black dog likes it as much as she did the green one!! Love you loads, LBJ

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On 05/28/2010, Sandy said ...

Congratulations!! You beat it!! Have a blessed day.

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On 05/28/2010, Nicole said ...

I love what you did wih the window pane. That fabric behind it is wonderful. And the cross stitch quilt? My gosh, what a find! It is a treasure and works perfectly with your new decorating style. Wish we had garage sales like that where I live!
So glad your outlook is better today. I have been living pretty much news free for a few years and feel much less stressed.

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On 05/28/2010, Joyce said ...

Soooo glad you are feeling better!!!!

Hey.. check this out:

HGTV's Endless Yard Sale will be back filming this year and we're looking for fun, energetic shoppers to feature on the show. Specifically, we’re on the hunt for teams of neighbors, friends and co-workers (must live in the same town) who’d be willing to compete against each other in a yard selling competition. Each team will be given a budget to makeover a room in their home. If you’ll be shopping 'til you drop, between Chattanooga, TN, and Frankfort, KY, on August 6 -8th, 2010, and you (and your friends) think you have enough personality to share with the nation, e-mail us the details. We want to know your mission and what you love about the "World's Longest Yard Sale!" Please include a photo of yourself. We are casting NOW, so please don’t wait!!

I copied this from the hwy 127 website. You should get some of your Leeds buddies together and apply for this. I'd love to watch you on it! :)

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On 05/28/2010, Joanne said ...

Love that wonderful quilt! And your window is awesome. My old window is smaller, only has six panes. I glued wallpaper cutouts to the back of the panes--grape leaves and clusters. I'm sure you've seen it.

I'm so glad you're feeling better. But feeling better doesn't mean you're supposed to jump up and exhaust yourself all over again. Take lots of time off to rest and renew your body and spirit. After all, it's YOUR house, and your time. Think "me first" for a while.
- Love - JR

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On 05/28/2010, Cheran said ...

I don't know if you want this info or not.....I have a co-worker with fibromyalgia and she says that "high doses" of Musinex (the cold expectorant)helps with the pain. Her Doctor doesn't know why, but she says it helps. Anyway - I like your attitude and love your quilts. Thanks for sharing!

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On 05/28/2010, Stephanie said ...

Glad you are feeling better! That window pane is super cute. How cute and clever! I love the vintage quilt you picked up, too. Looks like you are making good progress. Remember with home renovations...the journey is most of the fun! I always find I'm in a hurry to get it done and then when it's done, I am twiddling my thumbs and wishing I had more to do! :-)

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On 05/28/2010, Barbara Anne said ...

Hi Susan,

Glad you're feeling better and you were wise to take yourself away for a play day as therapy! What better than a milk shake to complete the cure?!

Your idea for the window with coordinating fabric turned out well and the quilt is lovely! My mother completed two identical cross-stitch/applique pre-printed pre-quilted quilts from kits back in the 1950s and I have them both! I've never seen a stamped kit from that time that wasn't pre-quilted and none of the quilting was as lovely as the quilting in your quilt. Perhaps they sold stamped tops and I'm just unaware of it.

Cheers that your couch is coming today!!!!!! Let the happy dancing and joyful celebration begin!! Will we see a photo today? Fingers crossed the answer is yes!

Love your blanket chest, too.

Hugs!

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On 05/28/2010, Beverly said ...

Susan, I was wondering how you were doing taking on this huge project. I'm glad you took some time to relax and enjoy.

You have to take care of yourself - because we all love you.

I love what you shared today. Everything is looking fantastic.

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On 05/28/2010, KAI said ...

Ooooooh! How pretty that window pane is with the fabric! PERFECT! And that cross stitched quilt is going to be a total stunner behind the sofa! Sophie is going to be ultra happy to have a new perching spot! As for the news thing, thank YOU for YOUR love & support re: the hurricane issue, and for not laughing at me! I just LOVE you!

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On 05/28/2010, Ruth said ...

So happy that your day took a turn for the beter yesterday.
Love the old window frame with your fabris treatment, look forward tossing the sofa in place.
Ruth

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On 05/28/2010, AnnieO said ...

Glad to hear letting go of some of the pressure you have put on yourself has made a difference. The fabric window and your decorating look just beautiful. What lovely rooms you'll be enjoying. I hope you do find some great alternative therapy for your fibro.

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On 05/28/2010, Lori in SD/NE said ...

The window frame and the quilt are LOVELY! The new couch will be cheery. Glad you're feeling better. Sit on it and drink tea and look out the window with Sophie!

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On 05/29/2010, Joan said ...

That window frame is lovely. Glad you are feeling better Susan.
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