Sweethearts

 On Friday I gladly made my way to Lauren's house. She asked me to go with her to the girls' new school. Tallulah and Etta visited their classrooms and met their teachers. Lauren took these photos of the happy experience. 

 Their Grams was so proud of them as they mixed and mingled and smiled at staff members.

 

 

I'm also very proud of Lauren who has managed so much this past year without Justin. With the girls enrolled at the same school she'll have more time to handle her professional job. 

 

A Quick Update

 Little by little I'm putting out fall decor.

Still painting every now and then

My dear daughter turned 40! I was looking at her baby books recently, and precious memories came flooding back.

Visits to see sweet Tallulah have been wonderful. We were there this afternoon and  enjoyed every minute.

September is a month that seems to go by quickly. Therefore, I'm hopping on here tonight to say "Hello" since lovely September days are moving along at a fast pace.

Thrilling Moments

 Seeing, holding, and watching my granddaughter

after waiting five months

So happy Lauren and Justin have moved from Austin to Memphis.

Happy Moments

 For many months I have looked for a "12x16" frame. I don't know the artist of this sheep scene because the artwork wasn't signed on the front or back. But from the first moment I spotted it at a Goodwill store I have admired it. The painting is far more worthy than the one dollar I paid for it. 

In the right hand corner I wonder if those marks are someone's initials.

My daughter is experiencing her first Mother's Day.

Motherhood is such a blessing.

I was blessed to experience it twice, having a son first and later a daughter.

 Nick and Lucas presented me with this flower gift.

Laughing with Gunner. At first he tumbled onto the ground before securing this relaxed position.

Sharing in the excitement of a sweet bride-to-be

Calendar Shock

This month is moving too fast. I am in disbelief. But September is always a full month. There's Corkey's birthday on the 1st and Lauren's on the 9th and then throw in Labor Day and Corkey's class reunion. And more events are coming.

  LABOR DAY

Hey, I see my baked beans and slaw!

My mom would be so proud that I use her recipes, and that these side dishes taste great with the delicious barbecue. 

  One of the best parts about Labor Day is sharing the event with friends you haven't seen in a while.

My "little girl" is now 37. Oh, the blessings and joys she has given me!

Where did the years go?

Corkey and I did not attend the same high schools. We met in our twenties and later reconnected in our forties. 

Oh, gosh, what happened to us!

We got OLD!

We have been married 29 years. 

It flew by!

I'm talking about how fast my little girl grew up. Today is her birthday, and she has been on my mind. Where did all the years go?

  

Pictures help me to recall the different stages of her growing up. Lauren is now a grown woman with a professional business. She has accomplished so much in her thirty-five years. Best of all she's a loving daughter. I love today because I get to remember the day she was born and all the joys she has given me.

Child's Play

After pulling weeds it was time for a relaxing break that allowed my inner child to come out and play.  Twigs, pieces of bark, stones, and shells came together to construct the fairy house for yet another spring and summer.

I love the fact that it's near the BELIEVE stone.

Wishing you a little bit of magic this week...

I already received mine this week. My daughter was in town yesterday. Although Lauren's visit was short, it was just what I needed. 

Treasured Objects

It seemed so strange not to head to the nursing home today. I am thankful my mother is no longer suffering, but it's hard to face that she's no longer with me. There's a lonely feeling to my world. However, I believe she will be having her most beautiful and glorious Christmas ever. 

Having my daughter home for four days was comforting. She was by my side during Thursday's visitation and rode with us to Louisiana for the burial on Friday. Over the weekend we managed one visit to Plantation Antiques. The tiny handpainted gourd reminded me of loft visits in my grandparents' barn. It was signed J. Duffy. 

Through the years my friend Mary has sent me lovely and unique Christmas cards. Five are resting in front of a line of  journals.

My mother gave me many treasures, often spoiling me on birthdays and Christmases. This Santa was in her collection. She gave it to me 'cause she knew it was my favorite.

I think every room now has some Christmas decoration. I am almost finished with this year's decorating. It has given me joy to bring out treasured objects.

Artjamm

This was such a fun experience. My daughter treated me to an evening session at an art studio where the instructor guides you through the painting process.

Our sweet and talented instructor was on hand to give assistance to everyone. Her suggestions helped us create "French Farm Houses."   

Our "masterpieces" will keep the memory of this shared art experience.