Serious September

Without going into details my husband is having health issues. My main concern is him and not this blog. Wish things were different as beautiful September is here. But I did want to explain why my posts will not be showing up with the usual pictures and thoughts. Wishing you a joyful September...love to my readers of Bits and Pieces. 

Late and Current News

 Antiques malls and shops are never boring for me. I enjoy seeing all sorts of interesting items. This browsing day actually took place in late August. I am just late in posting.

The small copper pail came home with me. I found it at an antique mall in Covington. It was my first time there, and I was truly surprised at the many booths and spaces that were inside.

Here it is September, and summer heat is still around. The month has been busy so far for us... Corkey's  birthday(#82), a pleasant Labor Day celebration with none of the scary drama like last year's, Lauren's birthday(#45), and little Etta's 3rd birthday.

We will head to Etta's party this afternoon. This was her party invitation cover.

I think everyone is ready for cooler weather. I changed up a few things inside to welcome the arrival of fall.

My daughter Lauren looked up the name Jewell LaVelle that was on the mums painting on the mantel.  We learned that she was a talented artist from the Memphis area. Her obituary revealed a full and interesting life. I came across the artwork several years ago at a Millington discount store. Knowing about her makes the purchase more meaningful.

Thanks for coming by. 

A Very Special Date

 My parents chose this date to marry in 1944. So glad they did because my brother joined them in 1946, and I came along in 1948. We were blessed with parents who provided us with love, experiences, and Christian values.

My mother put together this shadowbox which held precious mementos and memories of her wedding day. She included the gloves and hat she wore that day. There's also a letter from my dad to "Barney"(her nickname) several days before their plans to marry. [How I would love to read the entire letter but don't want to bother the contents my mother's shadowbox.] 

The marriage license is at the center of the display.

My Parents

Essie Mae Barnes and Elmer Ward Crum

"Barney" and "Cookie"

Lucky me!

Checking In

I don't post as much as I used to. One reason may be because I don't hear from anyone these days. I miss those occasional comments from others who stopped by the blog. Even my kids and grandkids are not aware of the posts I share. But I keep writing thoughts and sharing pictures to have a record of days that are soon gone. 

On Sunday Tallulah and Etta brought their new umbrellas and had to demonstrate them for Grandad and Grams.

I borrowed Lauren's photos for first day of school.

Tallulah has been looking forward to this day.

Tallulah was excited about starting kindergarten at her new school. She looked adorable in the school uniform.

Etta is happy to remain at St. Luke's and begins preschool.

There's no doubt that Tallulah and Etta make me HAPPY! 

Saturday Gathering

I wrote inside my brother's birthday card what a blessing we have had being brother and sister for all these years. Ronald Barnes Crum had his 80th birthday on July 22, 2026. His friend Leslie made sure this birthday was extra special. She invited a chosen group to her place to enjoy decorations, finger foods, drinks, cake and ice cream as we celebrated Ronny's milestone birthday on Saturday.

The Guest of Honor

Lauren with Tallulah and Etta

Ron's stepdaughter Leah with her son Hadley

Ron with his little sister Sandy who always looked up to him

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Ron and Leslie

Ron with Corkey

Leslie with her daughter Melissa

Tallulah and Etta

Oh, the memories we have shared! This was one from a 1970 apartment party.

We are hoping to make more memories. Yesterday's celebration became our newest one.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, RONNY!

 

Two Special Blessings

 Those would be granddaughters Tallulah and Etta. Being around them is good medicine for the body and soul.

A Special Day

 Proud of our country's celebration today...250 years of amazing history. So many brave stories were retold, and beautiful landmarks and places across America were shown.