Last September Day

This Monday I'm in a cleaning mood. Of course, I'm rearranging a few things while I'm doing housework.

I moved this book stack to the small black table near the bookcase in the front door entryway. I was happy to spot this larger owl while shopping at Ross. Its size, stately pose, and low price helped me make a quick decision. I like unexpected finds. 

I've also been writing and sending cards this morning. One was a thank you note and one a sympathy. Life is like that...happy times as well as sad occasions.

Gift Surprises

There is someone I haven't known long, but already feel close to because she is so kind. She loves to share and make others happy.

Recently she bestowed upon me two wonderful surprises.

 Because she is a talented seamstress I brought up the subject of velvet pumpkins. She googled the topic to find out how to make them. Using her stash of fabrics she enjoyed making them and giving some away. She had a trunk full of lovely pumpkins and wanted me to pick out the patterns and colors I liked. Her husband suggested she use cornstalks for the stems. Well, as you can see, they turned out amazing.

The galvanized tray came down from the top of the refrigerator in order to show off my new pumpkins from Kim.

Another gift from Kim was these vintage Christmas ornaments. She was taking a large bin of Christmas decorations to her daughter, but wanted me to have some of the old glass ornaments. 

Angel Painting

Painting this larger canvas took place last week. I think it looks better in person than in these photos. However, I'm still not satisfied with it. I am the first to admit creating artwork requires practice. And true talent would be nice to have. But there's pleasure in doing amateur art.

Temptations

Within this store are temptations galore. Fashion, jewelry, paintings, home decor, and much more were offered in every aisle. 

Although I didn't buy anything on my first visit to this store, I do want to return. It would be a great place for Christmas shopping.



My two key purchases on Thursday's outing with my friend Kim were a sign

and this tin container, both from Hobby Lobby. There were so many seasonal as well as inspirational signs that I had a difficult time making up my mind. I liked 'em all or so it seemed. It took me a long time to decide. The side door entryway received a makeover. 

I think this vintage rack will be fun to decorate with the seasons. It and the brass container I have had for years. 

 Fall is a great time to shop, but temptations abound because of so many lovely creations. Indeed it's a sweet time to enjoy the outdoors as well as home decorating.

Endings

A large canvas 

When I paint, it is sometimes hard to know when to stop. 

This one I am letting rest for a while.

I think I like it as is.

A book

 Boy, oh boy, could I relate!

The breakup of a marriage is a devastating experience.

I know firsthand many of the thoughts and feelings

 of the woman in this memoir. 

P.S. If there is anyone who might need encouragement to get through the pain and sorrow of divorce, I found this book to be helpful.

Also this verse from the Bible helped me through a very emotional and  rough time. 

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart.
                                                                                                                        Psalm 27:14

That verse continues to help me when I'm discouraged.

Autumn Mood

September is halfway over, and I've added small autumn touches here and there. 

on top of the piano 

on the dining table

on the side door entry wall

I love the month of September, even with the hot days we've been having. But cooler temperatures are coming, and that should be nice. Hope you are enjoying the ninth month, too.

Fall's coming!

Although I'm tired of some of my fall decorations, I don't really want to spend money on more. Anyway I'm supposed to be downsizing my seasonal stuff.

This afternoon I pulled out a few things for the new season.

 This small green wire basket was a Goodwill find.

This is the first time I've used it to display the tiny wood pumpkins I've had forever.

 Wooden bowls are always nice to hold pumpkins.

The blackboard is fun to change.

 The old green Ball jars are hard to find. A sweet friend gifted me with the two that I have.

I thought about writing yesterday, but I was missing my daughter on her birthday and having a sad day. To only see her once or twice a year is hard.
And then I remember others who have lost their children and feel I have no right to gripe. Life is full of ups and downs, surprises and disappointments.

Home Sweet Home

"Most people forget their home is for them. Trust your gut and stick with things that you find beautiful."
                                                         -homeowner Jeanne Oliver


"Beautiful things that mean something to you can bring you daily joy."
                                                        -homeowner Courtney Madden



I do have things in my home that bring me daily joy. They may not appeal to anyone else but that's okay. Decorating a home should be about personal choices.

Sharing a few items this Saturday morning that bring me pleasure...

 Have a beautiful Saturday.

The Start Of September

September always starts with my husband's birthday, and his family's tradition of a Labor Day gathering with barbecue. Years ago the meal was an outdoor affair, but now it's held at the Community Center. It is enjoyed by young and old and is a special time for family and friends.

These four guys work hard to prepare the excellent barbecue and tasty sauce.

Corkey with one of his favorite high school teachers

This post shows a sampling of the many photos that were snapped that day. I made a Facebook album to share them all.