Spring Mood

With the great weather the past few days I have been outside more, and my mood has definitely improved. Yesterday I removed leaves from the flowerbeds and noticed there's hope for returning plants.

While I wait for real blooms on the outside, I enjoy these artificial ones inside.

As always I've been rearranging...a never-ending practice that keeps me happy. The two grapevine wreaths are hiding that crazy outlet that's in the wrong place above the mantel.

Some spring decorations are starting to appear. 

Rabbits and eggs are the main attractions.

These polka dot ones are my new favorites.

Happy Spring!

Hard Week

 On Tuesday I had to hug my son Ryan extra hard. He is starting a new chapter in California. He made the decision to leave Pittsburgh and head west. Ryan wanted to return to Oakland, see old friends, and live out there. I have no idea when I'll see him again. All I can do is support his plans, pray for safe travels, and wait out this separation with love in my heart.

I have been cleaning out some of his childhood toys, books, baby clothes, etc. A few other items I've saved for some future time. More than likely he won't keep them. I am having to realize that items that meant so much to me back then don't have the same sentiment for him. That's a hard lesson for this mother to learn.

Little boys become men. And that is good, but sweet little boy memories remain.

Ordinary Days

There's a lot to love about such days. Quiet morning time is especially nice. Having a light breakfast with coffee is a lovely routine. No rushing. Time for puttering. Time to read or watch a TV program.

While puttering I chose this flower frog to display a postcard.

"Girl with Kitten" by Emily Farmer (1826-1905)

My most recent thrifting find was this odd wooden piece that someone had made.

I decided to fill the slots with old fountain pens.

Found these wooden eggs at Hobby Lobby

and used an idea off Instagram to paint the dots.

a wonderful lunch outing with hubby for juicy double cheeseburgers and french fries

After seeing a painting on Instagram I wanted to try the colors in my art notebook.

Yes, ordinary days are some of the best.

It's up to me to recognize how dear they are. 

A Very Special Celebration

Tallulah had a Bluey Birthday Party to celebrate turning FOUR. 

Warmth

Warmer temps are on the way. Yeah!!

I have been a homebody during February's frigid days. However, I haven't minded that much since I've had books, magazines, and art to pass the time. 

Recently Lauren and the girls were here for a Sunday afternoon. 

 Gee, Tallulah and Etta are growing and changing so fast! 

Time is moving too fast for me.

However, I am trying to cherish every day.

Odds and Ends

Scenes from home to let you know I'm still here. Hope you enjoy the notes.
  

easy care tulips from Hobby Lobby

 

Friend Mary suggested I leave this fellow out beyond Christmas.

He does look right at home atop the books and urn.

So True

hearts in the entryway 

my year round acorns 

Do you see the new double ornament one that I found at Hobby Lobby in December?

more hearts

These are wooden magnets.

Leftover Christmas garland got a different look with paper hearts.

A favorite side dish at our house is potatoes and onions.

(So yummy once they get browned and sprinkled with salt.)

Brown dishes are back on the dining room table.

latest barn painting

January Is Almost Over

This first month of the new year seemed to fly by for me. 

I had time for art.

I kept in touch with son Ryan by text message exchanges.

Pittsburgh has had its share of cold days with snow.

He is contemplating a move to a different state.

I would love for him to move closer to home.

Miss him!

Granddaughters have made the month extra special.

Etta is full of energy and mischief.

Tallulah is sweet and very affectionate.

 These little ones are growing and changing quickly.

 Time moves at a fast pace or so it seems to me.

See you in February.