Nickers & Neighs

Update on Kitchen remodel

2012-01-26T21:39:00.000-05:00

Six men and a few hours later...

This is the new faucet

The Island

I went to Home Depot last night and picked up the tile and all the supplies to install it. Hopefully, we'll get to it this weekend.

I'm so happy with my new kitchen, it is so much lighter and brighter than the old black counters. The faucet will take some getting used to, it works so much different from the ordinary faucets.

I'm sure you'll all see the kitchen in future photo's by then the tile will be up.

Have a wonderful night

Going Gung ~Ho With Dehydrator Ideas

2012-01-21T13:29:00.000-05:00

Did you all know; we can dehydrate eggs to reuse for breakfast or even baking. Yes sir ree!

I did a search on it this morning and found a blog very helpful in this matter. Check it out http://moosaidthemama.blogspot.com/

I seem to have extra eggs for a change and rather than having them go to waste, I'm going to dehydrate them and place them in the cupboard with my other goods.

My only question on this article is what is the shelf life once dehydrated; anyone know?

Granite Came In ~ Being Cut To Fit

2012-01-20T19:51:00.003-05:00

This is the corner piece that will snuggle into the NW corner of the counter and wind around to the stove. The machine hanging above the slab is the cutter, the copper tube you see is a handle, sort of a steering wheel that will be guided around the front edge of the granite to form the pattern of a bull nose.

This is a really nice photo of the island slab, if you look (real close) you see they just skimmmed the surface with the cutter on a small edge.

This piece is for the SW side of the counter, here you can see they have formed the shape at the front of the sink area, you can also see the colors a little bit better on this photo.

They called early this afternoon and ask if they could come first thing Monday to install the granite.

Stay Tuned

2012-01-15T14:36:00.000-05:00

Kitchen Under Construction

After nine years... finally take the leep to replace formica counter tops with the ever so popular granite.

There is a lot of work to do before replacing old with new.

Such as...

Unhooking faucets, garbage disposal, sprayer nozzles, and prying up and removing the old counter top. Man, was that thing on there!

This is after the counter has been lifted off, next step is for the granite company to do templets of the new layout.

Templates have been done, granite is on order and will be here soon. This is a "small" sample of what the granite will look like. It is called Typhoon Bordeaux, the photo is a bad example of the true colors. With the cabinets being all cherry, the veins in the granite which are very simular in color, makes the cabinetry look beautiful.

This is the faucet we chose... I found a wonderful company at www. Faucetdirect.com with me on my laptop downstairs and hubby on his computer upstairs we were browsing together and shouting out numbers of faucets we liked. After looking at what seemed like hundreds... this is the one we both decided on. Wow, looks like some kind of power tool; doesn't it. It has a pot filler, the end pulls out for a sprayer, the granite man, opened the box to measure for the hole needed to put in into the countertop and was totally amazed by this faucet and the price.

Then, there's the new sink... I didn't want another stainless steel sink, so with a little help from the granite company, and again Faucet Direct we chose a sil granite sink.

The best part about faucet direct was they shipped the merchandise out very quickly, the sink came within 3 days of when I ordered it, and the faucet was 5 days.

Just waiting on the granite now, as soon as it comes in I will post photo's of it going on the counter.

We are so excited!

Learning By Trial & Errors

2012-01-14T09:23:00.002-05:00

I really began to wonder...

A few nights ago after trying to change my background several times... I don't know what I did, however, a whole new look at things had me stumped.

I still do not know what I did, perhaps I added the updated version of blog?????

At any rate, here I am with a whole new look, and learning as I go, because things appear different as far as options and applications.

Bare with me as I take on the new adventure into blogland.

Wonderful Christmas~ Indeed!

2011-12-27T16:52:00.002-05:00

On Christmas eve...
We went to Candle light service, and to our surprise, our youngest daughter called and asked if she could tag along. I cannot explain just how blessed I feel when our kids/grandkids come along to mass with us.

Our 2 year old grandchild, is not used to being confined for long periods of time, a little chatty, and wiggly but we enjoyed our surroundings.

It ended up being a very late evening, and we finally got all chores done around 1:30 AM and then crashed.

Christmas morning... Busy in the kitchen preparing the turkey, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, and homemade dinner rolls. I had asked our oldest to hold the big event at her place, so once all was done cooking, we packed up the food, the gifts, and a few board games and headed out.
Had dinner around 4PM... Oh so good! Sipped on some wine; some of which was also homemade. Then went to the livingroom to open all the christmas gifts. Later, we played a few Cranium games, we sat around the table for a few hours laughing and playing, and just enjoying out time together. It was all one could asked for, having family all in one house sharing, giving, and remembering on this great day, Christ was born.

Happy Birthday Jesus, and Thank you for all your blessings!

Merry Christmas ~ From a Snow Goose

2011-12-24T13:40:00.003-05:00

What a beautiful bright and cold day it is here today. As hubby & I pull into the drive this afternoon I said;

"Look, honey, It's a Christmas goose!"

It is a snow goose, who has chosen to rest in our pasture. I have never seen one before, but got online to see if I could identify what kind it is. Just so handsome, don't ya think.

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Only Seven Days.... Christmas

2011-12-18T11:22:00.002-05:00

Not done shopping yet! Must get out there and fight the crowds to gather last minute gifts.

We do have a dusting of snow... finally! Today, brings light and bright skies, with very cold temps, some places near by got to -9* F, however, we remained above the negative numbers we are 9* F. expecting the low 20's for a high. We'll settle for it, if that means a white Christmas.

Feeling somewhat better, so going to pick up one of hubbies surprises, the store is holding it for me.

Have a great day!

Under The Weather

2011-12-16T15:16:00.002-05:00

No matter how hard you try to escape these things, they sneak right up on you... I have limited my outings, as it seemed, wherever I did go people were coughing.

Then our grandkids brought it home, and of course, our grandkids love us so much they cannot stay away long.

Nor can we stay away from them for very long.

So, I have the cough, and with asthma as an added extra, a very tight chest.

It really is ironic sometimes how stuff works; though. Yesterday, after I posted, I checked out Jerry Bakers blog and what did he have posted.... How to fight the flu... I kid you not!

His link is posted on my blog, if you are under the weather, you may want to know how to combat the symptoms.

Let me know if anyone of you have tried any of these things, and do they really work.

Blessings,
Mel

A Long Stretch... I know

2011-12-15T10:08:00.010-05:00

Hello everyone,

Things just didn't go according to plan with the grape harvest. The winery never came out, they visited a neighbors vineyard, then called us saying grapes are not ready in our area for harvest. Our vines were just loaded with wonderful fruit, we ended up saving 60# and made our own wine. Two weeks later... winery called saying they were ready and needed the grapes by the end of the day. By then our harvest was devoured by turkeys, and other birds, some were already raisins. We delivered them at 9:30 at night, the winery had only a note book with peoples names and the number of pounds each person delivered to their winery. A few months later we received a check in the mail, (it was at that moment, we felt stunned) after 4 years of very labor intensive work; we received .65 cents a pound for our grapes. No where near the amount mentioned at the viticulture meetings we attended each month. We are hopeful, that with each passing year our harvests will bring in better profits.

The best part is that we saved enough grapes to harvest 28 bottles of some very fine wine (from the grapes they said; " were not ready for harvest") it is Frontenac Gris and has the sweet taste of peach, and apricot, with a tropical finish. This is some good stuff!

The next huge project we had going was a new roof on the entire house/barn.

This job took the contractors 3 weeks from start to finish. What's amazing is we can no longer here the wind howling, or the rain beating the tin roof, as we lay in our bed at night, It's beautiful and no more leaks into the house.

Now, we can relax and get ready for the hustle and bustle of Christmas decorating and shopping.

Have a great day!

Vine & Grape Testing ... Postponed

2011-09-21T08:03:00.002-04:00

The winery that is interested in purchasing our produce has called and rescheduled for a later date. It seems the grapes from neighboring vines are just not coming up with the 21 -22% sugar count they like for making the wine. I will get pictures of this process...

My veggie garden has done well this year, I have picked enough tomatoes that I was able to can 15 quarts and 5 pints; so far! I still have my kitchen table taken up with the green tomatoes waiting for them to ripen, (some will be fried as green tomatoes) planted hubbard squash, that provided us with 9 squashes, carrots are ready to be pulled and placed in sand for the winter, potatoes will be next in line, then the pumpkins. It has been a splendid garden year!

For all you southerners, the canadian geese are on their way... I have seen a few flocks this past week heading south. ;( can't say as if I'm ready for the freezing weather, but ready or not it will be here shortly.

Okay, I'm off to browse my favorite blog sites, you all have a great day!

A Day We Have Been Waiting For

2011-09-13T07:50:00.005-04:00

After 3 years of very hard work, we finally have an abundance of grapes "Frontenac Gris" which makes a white wine with a peach flavor and tropical fruit/ grapefruit undertones.

Should be harvesting in the next week and our grapes will be bought by a local winery. Today, a lady will come from the winery and use a tool to measure the sugar levels using what is called a refractometer.

Out in the vineyard, you would take your meter and from each row of vines you would randomly pick a grape squeeze its juice onto the lens/prism look through an eyepiece at a scale for the sugar ( in wine language brix) reading.

I will ask permission for a few pictures as we walk through the vineyard today with the people who will be purchasing our crop.

Blessings,
Mel

Longer Nights & Shorter Days

2011-08-28T21:13:00.003-04:00

I Just have to ask; "Where did summer go?"

This summer slipped away so fast... It has been a hectic summer for us, with all the humidity and wet weather, our vineyard was growing like weeds; As well as our lawns. The vines required trimmings almost everyday, then there was a fungus issue we fought for a few weeks, got that under control (lost a minimal amount of grapes) thank goodness. Had a problem again this year with Japanese Beatles, that required regular attention, plus we hope the milky spore powder will cut down on their numbers next season.

Happy as a peacock that we will be producing enough and selling them to a local winery, what a rewarding feeling.

My veggie garden did well this year, I finally out smarted the rodent that ate my corn for the past 3 years in a row. I was able to harvest some and freeze it up.... and oh, how sweet it is! The only draw back ~ the rodent has discovered my tomatoes. I picked the bigger ones off the vine green, my plan (keep your fingers crossed, with me) is to lay them all out on the table and as they ripen place them in freezer bags and freeze them. I maybe canning some sauce as well.

Also, for the first time ever, I have 4 cantalope & 3 or 4 Honeydew melons, Mmm can hardly wait to taste my homegrown "organic" melons. Actually, all my vegetables gardening is done using no chemicals of any kind. (one of the reasons I garden) The vineyard is another matter...

Now, that things are being harvested, I should have some extra time to pop in on the computer and blog a little more often.

Stay safe my friends, your in our thoughts and prayers as we wait for this gusty wet weather to pass.

Do stop in and leave a comment, I'm so looking forward to catching up.

Blessings,
Mel

Time For A Few Snickers

2011-06-22T09:54:00.004-04:00

When It comes to Roosters......

Our oldest daughter came for an evening visit, while she was here I gave her a tour of the gardens. We both love to play in the dirt... She asks me; "mom, do you have an extra rooster you want to get rid of" my reply was; "yes, I do" I would like to find Rusty a good home. She says; "Oh, the dentist I work for is looking to replace his rooster, he butchered his cause every morning at 4 O'clock (out of the blue) it started to crow." I kinda chuckled a bit, and explained to her that yes, all roosters crow early in the morning.

Now, if you are not all peeing your pants laughing, just take note.....

"Rooster are gonna crow"

Still Kickin...

2011-06-20T14:53:00.015-04:00

Hello, to all my faithful followers,

I'm sorry, to have kept you all wondering if something bad has happened to me, or what on earth is going on.

All is well, hubby and I have been spending many hours outdoors, with all the gardens and animals we've been quite busy. Have been spending lots of time with our kids and grand K's, lots of birthday parties, voluteering for our church fair, and house sitting.... It's really been crazy around here.

The grapevines are "alot" of work; weeding, pruning, tying, spraying for bugs, spraying for grass under the vines. No longer do you finish this chore, then you have to go back to the starter row and start all over again. There are over 300 vines and 8 rows, all of which are loaded this season with little itty-bitty clusters.

Do you like surprises, I know I do.... I had dumped a packet of old seeds in the bottom corner of one of my raised beds and a few years later Wha~La! This is what grew I think, it is Sweet William, whatever they are, I just love them.... They smell so good.

And many birthdays/parties..... ranging from 2 years old to well, I'm gonna keep ya all guessing as my birthday is next (July)

Should be another grandson's birthday picture here, he is camera shy and would not allow a photo to be taken ;(

Our daughters birthday, however, baby tries to help mommy blow out all the candles.

I hang out all winter... just waiting and watching out the window... for summer. I'm an outdoors kind of gal, as long as it is warm and sunny.

Big hugs to you all and God Bless You for checking on me, I do not like the cold winters here, so when warm weather arrives, I live outside.... I love the sun!!!

I'd Like To Dedicate This To My Mom... And Friends... Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-06T12:39:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day

Mom, I want to "Thank You" for all that you have done for me, and continue to do; words are just not enough. Therefore, I'd like to pass onto you, something I have worked on all morning, something that you can use over and over again, since we both share the love for squash... Pay attention; there's a twist.

Oh Mama Mia Pumpkin Bread Loaf

1 2/3 C. Flour
1 C. sugar
1/2 C. brown sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt (I use sea salt)
1 to 2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cloves
1 C. butternut, acorn, hubbard, whatever; squash
1/2 C. vanilla yogurt
2 eggs
1/4 C. canola oil
8 oz. pineapple (with juice)
3/4 C. walnuts

In a large bowl, add the first 9 ingredients, set aside. In another large bowl (or if you are lucky enough to own a kitchenaid mixer; use that bowl) mix together the pumpkin, opps, I mean butternut or whatever type of squash you choose, yogurt, eggs, oil, pineapple, and lastly the walnuts. Bake in a preheated 350*F Oven for 60-90 minutes or until a toothpick poaked in center comes out clean.

Have a Happy Day Mom's!

<>< Mel

Eighty~Two and Skies of Blue... Somewhere!

2011-05-04T21:34:00.013-04:00

Tulips are loving the rain

Pasture has had enough already...

Was a beaver stream, now a river....

The rivers, well... they are roaring!

The rains keeps coming... I'll be dreaming of warm sunny days, as I fall asleep tonight.

<>< Blessings,

Mel

P.S This camera has a mind of it's own; when it comes to the date setting.
These photo's were all from today the 4th of May.

Crafting Idea

2011-05-03T11:06:00.004-04:00

What an awesome idea, and how ironic that it fits my background perfectly!

This idea could not have come on a better day, at a better time... Thanks Vick, I'm so tickled, I could squeeze ya... I mean hug ya! *LOL*

The rains just keep coming, we have had flooding in our area, with rivers overflowing their banks in several places. News forecasts even more rain throughtout the week, we're very fortunate ourselves, to live on higher grounds, were it is soggy and muddy, but suffer none from the deep waters.

This project will take my mind away from the gloomy days ahead... Please, join in on the fun, it is easy peasy~ and inexpensive.

Just hop on over to http://www.u-createcrafts.com/ "Create With Me" (posted on May 2, 2011) see what the rave is all about, hope to see some of your ideas posted.

Take A Picture... It Will Last Longer

2011-04-13T22:05:00.007-04:00

How many times, have you heard this expression, " Take A Picture, It Will Last Longer" Little did I realize... Yes, yes, they do last longer.

From window sill to shelf ... and hubby wanted to toss this to the curb.Someone, years and years ago put alot of time and effort into building this sill from scratch. It is all solid wood, with lots of paints, that was chipping ( I love the chipped paint look) nothing a few coats of polyurethane couldn't cover. I knew, from the moment I laid eyes on her, that I could make something from this.

I love this, I mostly love all the pictures on this wall and shelf. It brings back loads of memories, each time I look at it. Our two most beautiful girls in all the world, and all our grandkids...

The picture frames I have been collecting from the Salvation Army, and Good Will shopping trips. Some of them I had to paint, some are their original color.

Lots of times when it is to rainy and chilly outside, I will take some "Me Time" and dream up projects such as this...

Have a wonderful night,

Mel

Ah.... Who Ever Knew, Dirt Could Smell So Good!

2011-04-11T12:01:00.005-04:00

Hello my dear friends, Oh, how I have missed you and all there is about blogging. I have made a speedy recovery, and feel as though I'm back to my old self now. Whew, I would not wish the shingles on my worst enemy. I want to "Thank" each and everyone of you, for your thoughts and prayers. I send to all of you a big hug (((((Mooah))))))) as my little 23 month old says when mommy tells her to give her granny a hug... For the past few days, we have had the best of weather, yesterday, I grabbed a pitch fork, garden hoe, future fork (rake thingy, used in the horses stalls to sift out... well, you know, hosrey poo, and the regular yard rake and headed to my quiet place beyond the fence... my garden. After raking most of the old leaves from last fall, I grabbed the pitch fork and hand tilled the whole garden.... Now, mind ya, It's never come to mind how good dirt could smell, however, I just couldn't get enough of it. Must have been the llloooonnnngggg winter, indeed!

Look, even the chives, have come alive...

And the rhubarb...

My next step, for outside plantings is to get in the spinach, maybe some peas (however, I'm the only one who will eat them) and swiss chard. Next week; onions, and carrots, then broccoli, & cabbage. I have to plan very carefully, as to where I place my plants inside the garden, on count of the blight we had last season. I just cannot tell you how I am to get out there and play in the dirt. I bought 2 blueberry bushes, have to prepare the soil for them as they like acidic soil, I believe, I have to mix peet moss with something else before placing them in the ground. Strawberries, saw them at Wally Marts and bought 20 plants... Oh, just think, of the strawberry shortcake, strawberries dipped in chocolate, got my own mouth watering here. *lol*

Okay, that's enough babbling for one day...

Once again, Thank you all for your kind prayers, I am so blessed in many ways, you all are each a blessing in itself.

Hugs,

Mel

Just another speed bump in life...

2011-04-02T10:28:00.002-04:00

I'm so sorry, I haven't been posting on a regular basis, however, I have been thinking of all of my followers, and praying you remain interested & continue to visit. A while back you all remember I had a problem with an elbow which was explained to me as "Golfers Elbow" that kept me from spending much time typing because it caused aggrivation to the already inflammed area. That has pretty much subsided. A few weeks ago, I fell when the tip of my shoe caught on the corner of a child gate, I caught myself landing on the palm of my left hand. A few days later, I had what I thought was an internal bruise on the palm of my hand. Few days later, I noticed my arm was getting painful, but thought nothing more than I irratated my tendons with the fall (I did save the coffe cup I was holding in my right hand *LOL*) On Monday I made an appointment with my doc for a little circular rash on my left forearm. He looked at it said; "it's something you came in contact with...." Once more, thought okay, have baby peeps, messy cage, must have placed my arm in peep poop. Put ointment on it that night, next mornig woke up felt dizzy, had a dull headache, and the rash... well, it's three times bigger, and there are little splotches in different places on my arm, better go to ER. I very rarely go there, on count of our local hospital staff does not have a decent reputation. The nurse comes in asked all kinds of questions, then leaves and says the doc will be in soon. Doc comes in picks up my arm barely peeks at it and says, "it will go away on it's own, there is medicine that is used for this type of problem, but it's very expensive, I'll give you benydryl for the itching, fine. Now, my husband had the Shingles a year ago, and what I was seeing on my arm started to resemble that of what hubby had. Phoned my doctor, started to describe the situation, and before I could even get it out of my mouth, (the word Shingles) he says; that's what I was thinking, I'll give put in a few scripts for you okay. Then, he states, "your to young for this to happen to you" Thanks doc! So, for any of you that have had Shingles, you know it is extremely painful at times, it can make some feel like they have the flu, cause depression, lack of sleep, etc. etc. It "usually" gets people in their 50's or 60's and is caused from the chicken pox virus. If you have ever had the chicken pox, they live in your body forever, (dormat) for people with weak immune systems, under a lot of stress, this wakes up the virus and later in life they call it Shingles. At any rate, since there are more muscles in the arm than any other area of the body, therefore, there are more nerve endings, which means this is the worst place to get Shingles. I'm asking you all to hang with me... I will bounce back. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers, for a complete healing. Thanks to all of you! Blessings, Mel

Okay, Where Is it?

2011-02-26T15:01:00.003-05:00

Geesh, woke up yesterday morning to huge snowflakes falling to the ground. Left another 8 inches or so, before it was over. Today, it is just plain ole cold.... BUT, I'm still counting on spring as I've mentioned there are signs all around us.

I do, have my seed catalogs out and even open on the diningroom table. I know, it will be a month before I can even plant most things inside, but.... I'm anxious.

Spring cleaning has begun, after the curtain rod dumped my curtains on my noggin, I figured that was a sign to throw them in the washer, done.... While hanging them up, I spotted a few cob web~sters, of course had to vacuum the ceiling and corners prior to putting the fresh smelling curtains back up. Then, the windows needed to be washed, so that's done. Steam cleaning will get underway sometime next week, I love the smell of clean...

Hope, your all having a warm and fun filled weekend.

Think Spring~

2011-02-20T18:32:00.002-05:00

The signs are starting to pop up everywhere.

*Sparrows singing spring songs, while perched at the end of birch branches.

*Flocks of geese resting in farm fields.

* Snow is slowly melting (down to about a foot) all around.

*You get a few days here and there with temperatures warm enough to crack a few windows for the daytime.

*Animals are shedding.

*Chickens are busy laying.

* You can just feel it, standing in a window and looking out, you can surely... see it.

It seems so good to know that in less than a month we will be seeing spring flowers poking up from their winter resting spots. I have been planning for my garden, trying to figure out where to plant our tomato plants since last year we were struck with late blight. I have most of my seeds, however, like each new year have a few new things on my list. Has anyone planted the stevia plant, ( a sugar substitute) if so, how would you compare it to the real deal?

Yes, I have my catalog's out comparing prices, can hardly wait to get back into the garden again.

Hope, you're all having a sunny springy weekend...

2011-02-14T13:48:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentines Day to all my blog friends, and blog family.

Hugs,

Mel

Snow For Sale.... Cheap!!!

2011-02-09T19:47:00.006-05:00

Forcast for another 1-2 feet over night with 35 mph winds... See you all in July after all this stuff melts. *LOL*

I'm Dreaming Of A Green Summer, Just Like The Ones We Used To Know...

Winter Blessings,

Mel

Ordinary Shelves Made New Again

2011-02-06T13:57:00.015-05:00

Hello everyone, I have decided to bust a move away from my crafting to send a few pictures of what I have been doing, since I haven't been on my blog.

My first project was a small shelf, in which; I converted into a candle box. I painted it a prim black, added an electric candle, tucked in some berry vine and rusty stars, this picture is just a look see, I have moved it upstairs in the landing area and thought it needed something more...

My daughter had mentioned a dollar store called
Real Deals. Hubby and I walked thru the store and what did I see... but this little swan, why I had just the right spot for that. I love it!!!

At night, I plug the candle in a it gives a beautiful glow to a once very dark area.

Then, I got the fever...

The Saturday before last, I went to town thrifting, all alone, just me... stopped in at the Good Will and ...well, just look at all I found....

Why, I was so tickled, I finally found a box full of goodies for a little of nothin'..........

The lantern looks awesome on the wooden beam just below my baskets, all it needed was some de-dusting.

Opps, almost forgot to do the before and after on this once stained shelf. This one, I mixed my own color using 3 parts antique white to 1 part black.

Painted it, ruffed up the edges for the old distressed look and Wha~ La! This one sits on my buffet in the dining area, filled with some old medicine jars, I literally dug up trying to fill some holes in the yard. A little knot headed welcome figure, (used to collect knot heads) a candle in a mini washtub, and some fragrant cakes from Linda over at Parkers Paridise....

This little crate, was screaming for a makeover, I wanted to do something special for my hubby... It is now the remote control keeper.

What a nifty idea..... No more pulling the cushions off the chairs in search of the remote controls. *LOL* It's a hit with my Hubby also, who chose the color "Black" for his mote box.

Last thing, I'm gonna post is.... when I was at the counter paying, the cashier spoke up and mentioned the chicken I was purchasing. ( I will post later on what I did with this)

She said; " ya know, we have a rooster too!"

No, no, I didn't see a rooster, well, she said it's right here......

And she pulls this up from under the counter....

Did you hear the squeeling? Why, this is the icing on the cake.... It is not only a Rooster.... It's a chalkboard.............

Linda, at Parker's Paridise.... Has created a monster........... I'm hooked........ Still, have several items to work on, so stay tuned.........

Please Lord... Let Us Keep Our Power

2011-01-31T21:16:00.002-05:00

Big snow storm headed for the East coast, starting tomorrow afternoon and into Wednesday.
Now, just when you start getting itchy for spring, in hopes the snow will melt off early and we can drag our garden tools out of there winter storage areas.... what is this! We are not in the North Pole, where is global warming when you need it?

Well, all we can do is brace ourselves, and pray for the best.

Stay safe and in where it is warm.

Blessings,
mel

You Never Know What Your Going To Encounter... Even In Sub Zero Weather

2011-01-24T20:55:00.006-05:00

I'm wondering where did all that global warming get off to....

Can you believe... -35*F Brrr!!!! That's exactly what we woke up to this morning, not to mention a sick hubby. It's rare that he gets sick enough to lay around, and even rarer still that he'd volunteer to go see the doctor. Was put on some antibiotics for a bacterial infection and told to stay out of work until Thursday.... Yikes!

Pray for me my friends that I can stay well through all this.

Today, while hubby was at the doctors, I decided; to brave the artic air and pick up a few items at Aldi's. When I went to start my Subi- Ruby she was cold and not all that crazy about starting up, however, after a few turns of the key she rumbled to a start. After she was warm we headed out the driveway, my cell phone rang and our youngest daughter and granddaughter wanted to go with me, just short of turning the corner, I see an object in the road, at first glance it appeared as a clump of old dirty snow "or something" as I drive by slowly; very slowly, it'a a cat... Laying at the edge of the road head down nose nearly touching the frozen snow beneath him. At this time, I'm talking to hubby who had just pulled into the clinic but called me before going in. I cut his conversation off when I screamed "There's a cat half frozen laying in the road" I jump out of the car, scoop it up place it in the trunk, then go back to a house near by, knock on their door, no answer. I phone my vet, she said bring it home, place it in your laundryroom (warmest room in our house) it needs to warm up asap. So, I did bring it home, she is starting to stir around in the large cage I provided her, with a litter box, water, food and soft blankets. She used up so much energy just trying to keep her

self from freezing to death (which she was real close when I got to her) that she is just tired out.

This is her about 3 hours after I got her here, she was very hypothermic and shivering.

She has been moving around within this bigger cage, just a little here and there. She needs lots of rest and hopefully by morning she will be drinking and eating. If it is warmer tomorrow, I will be trying to find her owners. I'm wondering if she just slipped out the door without them noticing her. She is well fed, declawed, and her coat is shiny and healthy. I'm praying she wasn't given to a family who has decided they don't want to keep her and put her out in the cold.

At any rate, she is in a warm loving house where she will stay until she is 100% back to normal.

How Low Can We Go

2011-01-17T18:31:00.004-05:00

We are talking crispy here in the Northeastern parts.... Can you imagine -31*F ..... Oh yeah, that is what we woke up to, we even made it on the weather channel.

Had to go out and run a few errands earlier, and the temps are already plunging we are at 7*F so we'll see what happens.

My poor horses couldn't even leave the barn. Their buckets had to be heated up 3 times today as they kept freezing. They got plenty of hay to eat though, so not all bad....

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend and staying warm.

Blessings,
Mel

Frost Heeving Gate, A Visit From Big Foot, and Some Very Spoiled Critters

2011-01-15T07:32:00.009-05:00

With the winter temperatures rising and falling, this gate often rises with the temps.

What a beautiful day yesterday was... the sun glistened from the deep blue sky, the snow sparkled as if it was dusted with diamonds, and the horses.... they were hungry.

As we get older, our horses become more and more therapeautic for the soul. A long distant friend of mine had emailed me a few nights ago, asking; "Do you still own your mustangs" We do, and how the years creep up on us... The youngest of our horses "Scout" is approaching 15 years, his mother a wild horse in her younger years (she was 4 when we purchased her from the BLM) "Sierra" is approx. 19 years, and our Arabian Mare "April" (the boss of them all) is also approx. 19 years.

I'd just finished placing hay in piles for them, and here they are soaking up all the warm rays from the sun, while enjoying every bite of their breakfast. Sierra is the gray one all the way to the left, in the middle is her son Scout, and the one on the far right that's April.

I tried to go around in front of them for frontal picture, they turned their hind-quarters towards the camera.... Hmmm, alrighty then. Perhaps, it was a bad hair day!

If you click on the image, you may be able to see the diamonds in the snow. It was so pretty, I couldn't resist.........

Some of you may remember "Rusty" from last summer, he started out as a blue egg; well greenish actually, he was my first hatched chicken/Rooster. You can check in some of our former posts and see his baby picture, If you'd like...

Without fail, every morning, as I enter the barn to start my morning chores Rusty is right at the door to say hello. He is half New Hampshire Red and half Araucana (not sure if I spelled that one right) the blue egg layers anyway. I love his colors!

Now, on my way out to the chicken condominium, to feed and water the rest of our poultry crew, I saw this.... Doesn't it appear as if Big Foot was here?

Paula over at http://frakerfarm.blogspot.com/ had some footprints in the snow at her farm yesterday as well. That's really what inspired this picture of prints in the snow. I think, she'd agree this is a big foot print; indeed.

I hope, you all enjoyed a tour around, we are happiest when we can share our time with friends and loved ones, so visit us often.

Blessings,
Mel

Winter's Beauty

2011-01-11T10:41:00.005-05:00

When the snow falls, landing on everything in sight, it brings peace here on Earth.

Mornings after I finish my barn chores, I look forward to this walk up over the hill to the compost pile.

This is looking up one row of the vineyard, isn't it beautiful.

It is literally so quiet and restful, you can only hear a song bird or two, or an occasional bellow from the neighbors cows.

As I crest the hill and look through the many twisted vines, I spot a clump of winter grapes. Of course, these will have to be clipped, and tossed in early spring, to promote the new crop come late summer into early fall.

More snow in the forecast for tomorrow....

Touched By Sunday's Homily

2011-01-10T10:13:00.002-05:00

How God can change things "overnight" If you ask.

Have any of you been watching the story about Ted Williams the homeless man in Ohio? He has been homeless for many years, and has been struggling everyday with drugs and loneliness.

He was discovered as having a gifted voice, and that voice seems to have set him free from his struggles. Ted & his mother have been on "Goodmorning America," & "The Today Show," his mother revealing how she'd been praying for her son all these years and will continue to pray that he "get with God, and do what's right."

Many times, as I sit on the pew listening to the homily, it is as if God himself is talking to me directly. Yesterday, was no exception...

You see, it's not me; myself, who battles with alcohol or drugs, it's my brother/s.

Sometimes, my eyes fill with tears, as I wonder, how is it that I am deserving of the life I live, and my siblings have to endure such hard times.

Growing up, in a family with four brothers, and a half sister (in my heart, she will always be "my sister") I seemed to be closest to my oldest brother and my brother that is 11 months my senior.

My oldest brother, I always looked up to him, I imagine, mostly, because when my parents separated, my oldest brother bounced between households. He moved all over from one state to another with my father. (My father was an alcoholic, which lead to my parents divorcing.) We didn't get to see my oldest brother a whole lot, so when he was with us, we treasured his presence. He loved music, to the point, I always thought that perhaps he would be the next Paul MC Cartney. However, he got lost in this big world, and slipped into the same habits as my father. Although, he is not homeless; really, he lives between my mother and my brother that is 11 months my senior. When they are together, their drinking eventually leads them to a disagreement of sorts, and my oldest brother bounces back to my mother.

I have tried to talk with him, but his problem is such that I cannot reach him.

I pray, that one day God will reach him, and that he will be able to give up his alcohol for a better way of life.

May God Bless all my family, friends and everyone in between,
Mel

I have a secret to share :)

2011-01-09T18:47:00.007-05:00

I' am Pleased to announce

One of the blogs I frequent is Parker's Paradise at http://parkersparadise.blogspot.com/

Linda, is the host and she is amazing. She has a giveaway going on with several different items, she is having this giveaway to celebrate for over 200 followers that have signed onto her blog.

"Congratulations" my dear friend!

I want to apologize to my followers, as I have not been blogging much lately. I guess, I'm having a bloggers block, just cannot drag anything out of me to write about. I will try harder to keep up with all my wonderful blog buddies, and want to "Thank you all, Greatly" for continuing to follow this blog.

Many Blessings to all of you,

Mel

Note to Self: It Was A Wonderful ChristMas... this year of 2010

2010-12-27T14:22:00.013-05:00

Santa Will Be Expecting....

2010-12-23T12:08:00.003-05:00

Hello my dear friends,

Are you all ready for Santa to come visit your homes? You know, he will be expecting cookies and milk or does he like beer better....

I purchased a cookie press a few weeks ago, but with all the hustle and bustle, I cannot find it. So, for now, I have a few cookies; these are Chocolate & Walnut Biscotti; I figure, Chocolate goes with anything you may have to drink.

There will be no need to wax your runners on the sleigh for our area Dear Santa as we are getting some freezing drizzle. Oh, please, be sure to pack your spikes to place over your boots, we don't want you to slip on the metal roof, our hospitals do not come highly recommended.

Note to Santa: Dear Santa, I do believe, I've been a good girl this past year.... however, could you define "good" for me.

I really, don't need anything or want anything, except... Hope, Love, & Faith.

Merry Christmas
xoxoxxo
Mel

Our Families Favorite Fudge For Christmas

2010-12-12T16:19:00.002-05:00

When our oldest daughter was little, I think, around 7 yrs old she came home from Girls Scouts with a little green index card with this recipe. I'm going to type it as it is written.... because, I think it is the cutest ever....

Tiger Butter

1 cup milk cholclat
1 cup white cholclat
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Mix wite cholclat and peanut butter; add milk cholklate and stir only slitly. Pour onto wax paper lined pan. Use a tadle knife to stir pritie swerls (making marblized efect) chill in freezer to set, then brake apart.

She is now all grown up and has a family of her own, and whenever we get the little faded green index card out to mix a batch we all get a good chuckle. I've had many requests for this so called fudge...

It is delightful!

Blessings,
Mel

WhOoOo Who... Honey~ It's freezing outside

2010-12-09T20:32:00.003-05:00

It was a pleasant day here today..... Until the sun went down. Was like someone turned off the switch, all of a sudden, the bottom dropped out.

Currently, we are reading 2*F with the wind chill.... feels like -11*F... The snow squeeks with every step you take. The hair in your nose freezes instantly, and your pants feel as if they are packed with ice.... And it's only December.

Do hope, Santa has some good insulated long johns for his tour around the world for Christmas this year.

He may also want to carry a big bag of oats with him for his reindeer, will help them to stay warm and give them the extra energy they need to pull the sleigh. Hmmm, I wonder, does Santa have a GPS........

What Do You Do... WiTh AlL tHiS wEtNeSs

2010-12-01T13:19:00.002-05:00

Why.... I'm gonna grab some left over Pumpkin pie, and sit back in my easiest chair with pie, and coffee, and listen to the rain smashing down on the metal roof.

How about you, what is your weather like today, and how are you going to make the bestest of it?

We are expecting at least 2" of rain today, the wind is howling like a pack of wolves, and this all gives way to snow.... Starting this evening............. Lots of it!

If that doesn't get me motivated to drag the Christmas decor out and get started on placing them around the house, then.... then.... there's no hope.

I guess, even though I'm not crazy about the frigid temps and gusty winter winds, I am a snow bunny....

I get all kinds of kid~ish, when you start seeing winter items on store shelves, like those plastic snow tubes... Buddy, let me tell you, when we get a wet snowfall, those things sail down the hillside, like a monkey slippin' on a banana peel. We have the perfect hill, just out back for this sort of adventure.

What about those new snowball maker thrower thingies, have you seen those babies? Herb Phillipson stores carry them, they are like the tennis ball throwers you can buy to play fetch with your dog. Oh boy, you better build yourself a real good bunker if you intend on a good old fashioned snowball fight. " You could shoot your eye out kid" as they say in the movie, " The Christmas Story."

I hear, a pumpkin pie calling out to me... You all have a blessed day, and don't forget to share what the weather is like where you live, and how you make the best of all this yukkyness...

Hugs,
Mel

Sunday Morning Drives..... But Wait, It's........ Saturday

2010-11-09T12:12:00.007-05:00

Last Saturday was spectacular, join us as we travel country roads in and around the Adirondack park.

We woke up Saturday morning and noticed ole Jack frost worked all night to spread his white frosting all over the ground and into the tree branches. I just love the first sightings of snow covering the trees, it's so pure and refreshing.

It wasn't long before the paved roads turned into dirt... I so love journeys along dirt roads. As a young girl, growing up in the country hills of Pennsylvania, my mother and I often took to the dirt roads for a morning ride. So, needless to say, as a grown women, I'm nearly in heaven when hubby takes me on these drives.

Thank you, Hubby, for taking time off from all those many things that need to be finished up prior to the true winters arrival.

There are several areas here that you'd expect to see a moose standing in the middle of a pond munching from the bottom greens. But, no moose... Maybe next time.

The dirt road stretches on and on for many miles, can you sit back and just image that a hundred years prior you may have seen a horse and buggy trotting over these roads. Why, back then, this is what our very own neighborhoods may have looked like. It's becoming harder & harder to find secluded forests such as you see here.

I'm so at peace in the forest, I could stay out here until the cows come home......

Cows, did I hear someone say Cows.... Ask and you shall receive.

As we pop out of the woods, and into more populated areas, I decided I'd finally get some pictures of some of the old barns around our countryside.

You can see we are back on paved roads and moving right along (fuzzy image) the smoother roads. I love barns, just as much, as I love dirt roads. Always makes me think about the people who built them. Although, I don't know them personally, I know, that back in the day, when they built some of these old barns, many people gathered together, and worked long and hard cutting down trees, then cutting those trees to make the beams and boards, waiting for all the green wood to dry and then erecting what we see as dairy barns, carriage barns, and even homes, much like our own...Here's a beauty, look at the rock foundation, this one is in great shape, she'd make a beautiful post and beam home...

Hope, you all have enjoyed following along with me on this journey through my neck of the woods. I'm so pleased to have you stop by, don't foget, to let me know you came along for the ride.

Frosty Was Here.... and Some Great Rummage Items Found

2010-10-19T07:44:00.014-04:00

If you look close at his fingertips, you can see a layer of frost... It was a balmy 30*F here at the weee hours of the morning.

No need to squint on this one, you can clearly see the thick frosty layers on the roof tops... and fence rails.
It's comin my dearest of friends, our local news is forecasting snow... Perhaps, later this week, in our area. Oh, I'm so not ready for winter, our summer was just not long enough...

I have to share some of my yard sale finds with you. Our youngest daughter, grandbaby, and myself were out a few weeks back driving around to some yard sales. I had a list that I had copied down of the ones that struck my interest. We had driven all over this beautiful countryside from one end and then at daughters pleas, to the other end. As we were getting ready to call it a day, Jamie(daughter) used her handy dandy cell phone to find one last sale. Now, we had to drive about 25 miles northwest of where we were at, But, it paid off.... Let me show you, may I!

We drove up and parked the car, and see lots of goodies... in a plastic tote, buried under old canning jars with the metal snap lids, is this crock. All I could see was the brown rim, until; I moved all the other items aside. Thrilled to pieces, with that tickley feel within me, I snatched it up, nearly ran to the lady running the sale and asked the price. Before I could even get it all out, she said $2........ $2...... can you believe it? I brought her home, placed her on my TJmaxx stool with the towel that came from Linda over at ParkersParadise as one of her give away items.

Then, after taking it to the car, I came back to the sale and see a man coming out of a cellar stairwell with this box full of more (assorted sizes) boxes.

Little, did I know, what exactly was inside the bigger box, holy moly............ look at this....

This is just one of the litte boxes found inside, it is from a Tabacco company in Ohio, Oh wait, it gets even better....... check it out........

Glued on the bottom of these little drawer style boxes, are paper tabacco coupons. This one in particular, the coupons are all in one piece, some of the others have tears in them..... Guess, how much................. once again, I asked the lady what she was wanting for the box of boxes.............. $2 a little weak in the knees, I asked; $2 and handed over $3 told her to keep the change. Now, in the meantime, I carry this box of boxes back to my car, now having to fold down a seat to make room, my daughter is still looking at spots what she sees as a deal ( an exercising thingy, I think, she said a P90X, I'm really not sure it is called) she is trying to get into shape as she would like to join the military, so she buys her thing for $10.

While she is paying for her stuff, up from the cellar comes this one armed extra wide seat.

In the back of my head, I'm thinking; "where would I put her, do I really need this, No, but I must, She deserves a really warm home...." So, for only $10 she is mine. I almost feel quilty, that I got it for only $10.... I have moved her around a few times, and for now, she is on the landing of our stairs. I cannot even begin, to tell you how solid she is, or how comfy. Someone at one time recovered it, did a wonderful job... I would not have noticed, except for the upholstery tacks that are exposed on the front. The only other thing that is not original is a screw in the back (must be to steady the arm) left side.

Would any of you know the correct name of this chair and about when it came out?

Not bad for a day out surfing yardsale.... Is it!

Somehow, the frost outside isn't that bad either...... For, I have much to do inside my cozy home to keep me warm and busy.

Here, are a few projects, I have to work on, the first, is actually, off the bottom of a window sill at a house we re-did, I collected this and thought of making a shelf out of it.

What are your thoughts?

Last, is a frame, I found buried in our loft, under a lot of dust ... I have a few ideas... One in particular is to stencil on the wall "Family Gathers Here" (above the frame) hang frame on the wall, then inside it ( with some scrapbook backgrounds) place some black & white photo's of kids/grandkids.

Again, any other thoughts, are always welcome....

Hope, you all had a great visit today, I look forward to you all visiting my blog, please come by anytime, there's always a warm welcome awaiting.

Many Blessings,
Mel

Chick~tician Needed

2010-10-16T16:33:00.005-04:00

As the days fade away little by little each day, so do our feathers... The chill sets in on our fannies at night when it dips into the 30's as some of us ladies, why we have nothing to cover back there. There's a few old nags in the coop, they don't have nothin better ta do, but pick on us bare bottomed chicks. That big and bossy rooster, he thinks he's the ruler out here, puffs out his chest, does a little square dance and dive right in... Word has it he's gonna get traded out for a rooster with some manners.

There he is... Rusty the rooster was born here on the farm last summer, one egg of 6 to survive. He is a long legged half Auracana, and half New Hampshire Red, he is really laid back and will fit in well with us little chicks.
While the others are out to play, I like the quietness within the coop... And if you look closer, I have outsmarted them all... no chick~tician need work on my feathers, I do all my own grooming. Pure, nice fluffy and very healthy feathers, if I must say so myself...

If those other hens would just watch and learn, they too could be as pretty as me.

You all have a great weekend and we always look forward to visitors here on the farm, so come poke your head in now and again.

Waterlogged

2010-10-05T19:32:00.004-04:00

We have had such a wet and chilly fall so far. Last Friday we received 10 inches of rain, this caused rivers, lakes and ponds to overflow. Some roads were closed as the fast water ripped them up or out.

Our house, is at a higher level, plus we live about a mile in from the river, so we don't have to be concerned with flooding in our backyard. However, it just doesn't want to dry up, the rains have started once again and will stay until sometime Thursday.

I spent the day with our youngest daughter J and our youngest granddaughter Z. We started out looking for pumpkins, no patches around here, so we stopped in at a Mennonite Country Store. The pumpkins, squash, goards, cornstalks, all neatly placed on the front porch, so we chose a few pumpkins and went inside to get a cart. As we walked inside, it smelled like freshly made banana bread. Now, this place had everything you can imagine (most of it handmade) anything from baked goods, to hand sewn dresses, to pure maple syrup from local farms all around our area. Hubby, loves the real deal when it comes to maple syrup, none of that processed, high fructose corn syrup, syrup for him...

As a matter of fact, we usually purchase a few quarts to place in gift baskets for family at Christmas time. We also have a store about 20 miles from us in a town called Croghan that makes and sells, homemade cheeses, cheese curd, and the famous Croghan Bologna, which also makes up a nice basket with a local bottle of wine to finish it off.

At any rate, J, Z, and I set out for pumpkins and ended up taking a 66 mile country drive (huge loop) which... put the baby to sleep and almost put her mommy to sleep also. Okay, I also started to feel sleepy, thank goodness, we were closing in on home... The sights were just beautiful, trees are all at peek right now, we even drove into some sunshine, ahh, that felt so good, I didn't want to leave it.

Having grown up in the country, it runs in my veins, I love drives, ones that you can just drive at your own pace and take in all that God has blessed us with. As we were going right along, J & I (at the same time) saw a sign that read Memorial Forest........ being the adventure seekers that we are, we decided to drive down the long and very narrow road. The trees were planted in lots and each group marked with the species of tree they are. It was so relaxing, and reminded me of when my mother used to take me on country roads as a young child.

Now, I have to say, my two girls, love the country way of life, just like their mom. Our oldest daughter, prefers those rural routes over main roads anyday. Our youngest, loves the parks and forests.... Hubby & I, are truely blessed with two great daughters and 5 wonderful grandkids...

Actually, we have so much to be thankful for....

Blessings,
Mel

Wednesday Bargains

2010-09-22T07:47:00.009-04:00

I believe, my favorite day has to be changed from Saturdays to Wednesdays. (My day to go thrifting at the Salvation Army and second hand shops.) Somedays of course are better than others, however, last week, I hit it big, take a look...

Strolling along in "The Thrifty Shopper" not finding much of anything, then all of a sudden, I stumble on this sign... cost was $3.99, check out the colors of the letters, perfect match to the cherry kitchen. This beauty is hanging above the kitchen sink and window.

Walk a few steps, and here daughter & I find this cutie for daughters country decor (we have the same taste when it comes to decorating our homes) she took it home and placed it on her diningroom wall.

For all of you who visit the Farm Chick Paula at The Fraker Farm, she has been educating us on bee's and hives. So, it was ironic to find this on the very day I read her blog, about the bees and each of their jobs.

Then we spotted this little cow decor for only $.99 it also went home with our daughter and she placed this in her little kitchen.

Browsing around a bit more, getting ready to head out of the store, when suddenly, this catches my eye. Oh, I love lanterns, so this went into the cart, brought her home with me, cleaned her up, placed a small candle inside and placed it on the coffee table in my livingroom. Any Idea what year this sweet lantern was made? There doesn't seem to be any stamps on it, but the globe is a bronze color and very thick, I can almost see someone way back in the day, carrying her to the outhouse.... I got her for $3.99 which to me wasn't that bad.

I also collect baskets, and hang them along the wooden beam rafters that make up our ceiling. I found at the Salvation Army the little star shaped basket last Wednesday, and you cannot see it in this photo (on the other end of the beam) a long bread basket.

I love my home, and all my surroundings, It's warm and very cozy, it's me and who Iam...

Come on in, have some coffee, tea or hot chocolate, and we'll chat awhile.......

Today, is Wednesday, It's a warm, windy, and very wet day, good day to go treasure hunting.

Blessings,

Mel

Golfer's Elbow ~ Where There's a Will, There's a Way.....

2010-09-14T13:05:00.011-04:00

Went to see the doctor yesterday, for about 4 months now, I've been experiencing some discomfort on the inside of my elbow. When it first started, I just figured I must have bumped it on something, thinking it must be a bruise. The pain remained, and no signs of bruising, and now the irritation is spreading from the backside of my elbow, down my arm. After having difficult time getting to sleep on Saturday night, figured; alright, I'll go see the doctor.

That, I did.... He said"Golfer's Elbow" I replied; "I don't golf" how does one get Golfer's elbow if they don't golf.

It turns out, anything from painting to typing can cause this to occur. Treatment will involve some Physical Therapy, ice packs, and rest....... Me rest.... I don't have time for resting.... I can not see me giving up typing, although painting, now that's a different story 8) Or what about vacuuming, I could do without that, except for the two very hairy and shedding dogs that leave a floor full of fur each day, that I cannot look past...

This being said, we have been really busy preparing for this falls hunting season.

Putting in a hunting cabin, my job is to replace the dirt around the poles, pack it in real good, making sure the poles are straight and level.

Hubby, dug the holes using his new tractor, with an auger from a very "nice" neighbor who was kind enough to let us use it.

Thank you kind neighbor!

As they say, "If you build it, they will come."

It's here~ just the box, I've been waiting for....

2010-09-07T15:50:00.014-04:00

Today, as I look over my purchases from Wally~Marts, I hear the gravel in the driveway crunching under car tires, then there was the honking of a cars horn. I couldn't open the door, I had two labs inside going crazy, (they like to jump on cars) so felt it best if the maildelivery person just leave it on the porch. That she did.....

There you see Dunkin investigating who was on his turf...

Would you look at this box; it's filled to the top with all kinds of wrapped treasures from Linda over at Parker'sParadise.

I cannot wait to start unpacking, oh golly, this feels like my birthday or something...
Look, this is the first thing I found, all neatly wrapped, with a fabric bow, cinnamon stick and I'm pretty sure a sprig of Sweet Annie. The Sweet Annie, is a gift all by itself, I used to have a huge spot of it in my garden at our last house. Didn't think to bring any seeds with me when I relocated... I've asked permission to plant the seeds here in a garden. Oh, I smell it already! My mom will be tickled, when I share the good news with her. These spoons are wonderful, I soooo Love the colors and the fact that each spoon is a different shape.

Next item I came to was......

This little blue recipe box, inside it was packed with even more gifts, I'm dancing as happy dance, because there's a snowman inside............ Really, I shall not tell a lie......

Oh people, I wish you could be here....... This stuff smells so good..... I want to eat it........ All of it smells like baked goods, smells of spicest and everything nicest.

Wait, There's more.............................

Yes, this little blue spoon and the cinnamon & spice pies were wrapped individually, however, the smells were making my tummy growl, so I must have skipped a few pictures...... OOPps...

There is also a long wooden green spoon box....... a pumpkin towel...... cookie cutter...... and a black board with "Primatives" stenciled on it...

That's so ironic..... I had stopped by a mennonite country store on my way to Wal~Mart and bought a pumpkin today, was going to whip up some pumpkin muffins and preserve the rest for our holiday pies.

At the grocery store on Sunday, I had searched for canned pumpkin, then we ran into a stocker and asked if they could help us find it....... to our amazement, we were told; "we haven't had canned pumpkin for a few years now, due to a heavy frost killing off alot of the produce" and what they get in is on backorder and very difficult to get................... I had no idea!

I am delighted, to have won such wonderful gifts, Thank you a million times over my friend for inviting me over to sign up for the drawing. Each item will have a special place, a place where I can see it from anywhere in my kitchen. God Bless your big kind heart....... Hugs to ya my friend.

Now, I'd like to show you all what I found out at Wally~ Mart today. I have been wanting to make some more aprons, one is needed for collecting the eggs from the chicken coop. My intent was, to pick up some fabric that would blend well with what I had here at the house..... That, I did.... But, I also found and bought this .......

A kit for an apron, until today, I did not have anything blue in my kitchen area, but now....... the new gifts have given me a blue recipe box, and blue spoon/s...... Then again, I first have to figure out how to sew it..... God Help Me........ I cannot even sew a straight line, so will depend on my super duper sewing machine and it's special foot to help me out.

Here the fabric is laid out, and you can see, all I have to do it cut out each shape, then sew......

Wish me luck.........................

I must get off here and find something for dinner, Hubby will be home Reeeeaaallll soon.....

It must be a dream~ I Won!!!!

2010-08-29T21:06:00.002-04:00

I just cannot get over the fact that my name was drawn to win some wonderful giveaway gifts from Parkersparadise. It's a rare occassion indeed, hopefully, my luck hasn't run out for me to win the $10 million lottery from PCH... LOL

A big Congrats goes out to Linda for gathering 100 followers to her blog, and also nearly 1000 posts... You go girl!!

Thank you all so much for congratulating me on being the winner of these wonderful gifts, and Thank you Miss Linda for making this all possible.

Blessings,
Mel

It Really Has Been One of Those Summers

2010-08-23T13:21:00.003-04:00

Where did summer get off to... yesterday, I grabbed hubby out of his chair, I heard the geese, we ran to the door just in time to see a small flock in formation heading South. "Already" I called upon our neighbor and asked if she'd heard and seen them and she explained how they were resting in a near by field.

But, I'm not ready to give in to colder weather, Just yet....

I have string beans to pick and freeze, tomatoes to pick and can (loads of them) our roma's are unreal this year the plants are so full they have tipped over, I'm not complaining, I will take them. Try to put up sauce, some salsa, and plain tomatoes. (hopefully, we have enough jars)

The garlic I planted last year, did very well and Mmmm the flavor, there is no comparison to what you purchase at your local grocers, I can hardly wait to plant more for next year.

The vineyard, is absolutely beautiful, the vines are huge, and tower over our heads, and to walk through is just like what you see in Europe as far as vineyards look. Soon, we will be pruning the vines, hopefully, I can salvage some of them for crafting. I've thought about harvesting leaves, however, with our hot, and humid summer we fought to keep Japenese beatles from destroying our crops, there all over them.

Besides gardening, I have hired a dog trainer to come a few times a week to help us settle the dogs when visitors come. They are big, vocal and Dunkin has a very deep voice, not many people want to visit when they arrive and these 2 come barking at them.
They are doing real well, and we hope to be able to welcome neighbors and friends over real soon.

So, I'm sorry, I haven't been much company this summer, life is good...... here on the farm!

Do hope you'll all come over for a visit, and please leave a comment, I love hearing from each and everyone of you.

Blessings,
Mel

I Bet, Ya All Thought I was Driving Around The Farm On That New Tractor... Didn't Ya

2010-07-30T08:25:00.004-04:00

Cleaning, Isn't just for spring! I got bit by the bug yesterday, I looked all over for our digital camera for before and after photo's; It's MIA....

Dogs, woke me up at 5:20AM had to go outside... Horses, needed to be let out, chickens needed out, baby chicks, fed, cleaned and water changed.

Dogs, want to eat, coffee has to be made, hair removal needs to be done upstairs and down, (dogs shed alot...) furniture vaccumed, and leather furniture needed a good conditioning treatment.

After all this, I still had energy to rent a rugdoctor and clean all carpets upstairs (Thank goodness, the downstairs has no carpet) but wait, the beds needed to be disassembled, the dressers & chairs have to be moved to a different location, somethings go in the giveaway stack... If it hasn't been used in the last year, you ain't gonna ever use it.... Give it away.............

Now, everything you took apart and moved out, had to be brought back in and reassembled ( I got to thinking, ya know; there's the Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, what about a You Made The Mess, I'll Clean it Fairy)....

Today, I feel as if I ran a marathon. LOL
Tonight, have a wedding to attend.

Hey, it's all good for another well, maybe; 6 months!

What's been happening on our farm

2010-07-22T08:17:00.008-04:00

A happy Hubsy, seen here unloading his tractor (we have dreamed of this day, since we moved onto this farm 7 yrs ago) and a beautiful day to boot.
Later that day, we just had the itch to try her out, so here hubsy is breaking through brush and moving dirt to make a road to another 5 acres across a swamp/an old beavers pond; which we have not been able to get to unless we crossed over the beavers dam. ( will post pictures of that later down the road)

While hubsy is busy with his new "baby" you can see I have other hings in mind.... Like these raspberries.

For a snack, I made everyone raspberry and blueberry parfaits... Yummzie!

As I pick at these red sweet and tasty berries, I picked my way right over to this... a little birds nest. Hmm, must be they have moved on, cause there was no one home.

Last evening, as hubsy and I headed back to the house, a layer of fog started to form over the fields, about a half hour after sunset, the moon was rising above the barn; over the trees. What a glorious site (just love this photo) may become a photo for our wall.

It appears that we are farmers.

Rusty, ( now approaching a month old) chick has a little friend.

Born to us on the 20th, this is Itty Bitty...

I think, we have a real mini chick, I have never seen a runt chick before (only one that hatched out of 8 eggs) she is so cute...

Buddiebb, Buddiebb, Buddiebb, that's it folks.

The Name is Rusty....

2010-07-14T12:27:00.002-04:00

The newest member in the chicken family, not sure if it is a Mr. or Miss yet, but time will tell.

By the way it acts, we're leaning towards a rooster...

When you open the cage to play with him he charges at you, as if he is going to attack, but stops just short of your hand. We have been giving him lots of attention, so hopefully, we'll be able to keep it, to replace the giant rooster we have.

Barney is not a gentle rooster, half our hens have no feathers on their back.

If Barney is a Buff Orpington (father) and mother hen an Aracauna what does that make Rusty?

Hmmm~ would he be a Buff Orpacauna, or a Buff Aracorpington?

"Curiousity".... Nearly Knocked Me Out

2010-06-30T08:37:00.003-04:00

Okay, no pictures to go along with this event..........

Shenea, had two eggs still underneath her, the new chick is now 5 days old.

I'm thinking, what if there is a peep in the shell and due to the thickness of it, it cannot break out. I better investigate.............

NEVER, NEVER, break open a three week (plus) old chicken egg.............

Holy man, it broke alright, "more like it exploded", I stood over the trash can, "very gently" pecking at the shell ( not to harm a chick, if there was one in there) with a pair of grape pruners.

Don't laugh, they have a crooked tip much like a hens beek, okay...........

It only took two little itty bitty pokes and "Kaboom, it sounded like a firecracker", splitting open and spraying a really nasty, really~really nasty; smelling liquid all over my sweatshirt. I never knew, an egg could smell so bad......... It can, and it did!!!!

I had to move the trash can to an outdoors location, it stunk up the whole storage area.

So, .................. Let me say it again, Never open an egg that a hens has been sitting on for some 25 days.................

She Did It..... and some more to peep at.....

2010-06-28T12:30:00.007-04:00

Shenea is a mommy.... We have hatched our very first peep!

Silly me, I forgot to correct the date on the camera after changing the batteries :(

The real date ....... June 26th 2010.

It's early Saturday morning, I have the coffee on, and it's time to go to the barn and start chores.

I grab the big white 5 gallon bucket and head for the tackroom, one scoop on Lo-Thyro and two scoops of Equi-SE goes in the bucket and out to Scout. I place the bucket on the stall floor in front of the horse and go for the halters, but wait, Shenea is chattering away in her pen. I'm thinking I better take a look and be sure one of the other chickens didn't get in there to visit.

I open the door to the brooder pen and on the floor running around Shenea is a little yellow fuzz ball with 2 dots of black on it's head. Isn't it sweet.......

Now, I'm so tickled, I run into the house, hubby, is still in bed sleeping, but,( I'm so tickled) I just cannot wait to announce my surprise.

Hey, wake up, we have our very first little peep. "I know, he says, I found it last night, but didn't want to tell you, in case it didn't make it".

The peep has and today it is 4 days old.......

Also, new on the farm, just outside the garden gate are these absolutely gorgeous roses. I purchased two rose bushes last year from a trip to Aldi's, planted them in the fall (with some help) I found on Shabby Old Potting Shed's blog about how to care for them have a sucessful crop.

Thanks for posting that info my dear friend.......

A look inside the garden gates you would see my corn, turnips, swiss chard, asparagus, cabbage, egg plant, tomatoes, watermelon, honey-dew, spaghetti squash, zucchini,and summer squash.

How old ~ Is too Old

2010-06-15T21:57:00.004-04:00

This is a familiar face to those who frequent my blog (Shenae). She seems to be a P.T . Brooder closing in on 2 weeks since she started to set on 3 eggs, however, every few days Shenae will fly over her coop and end up in the bucket across the barn.

This bucket is used by one of the other chickens (Velma) with whom we put with Shenae for company after Mr. Roo passed on. Since the morning chores are my responsibility, I check the coop each morning hoping and praying we have a little fuzz ball or two to cuddle. I'm not sure if Shenae gets confussed which egg/s she is supposed to lay on or WHAT... But, I kindly lift her off Velmas egg and place her back on hers, inside the designated broody condo.

I'm not so sure these 3 eggs will hatch, because I'm not sure of the length of time she is out of the coop and off these eggs.

Now, I know, a broody hen, when I see one... Shenae, will growl at anyone or anything, and she also puffs herself up to look like a black beach ball.

The first few times, I thought maybe she had developed rabies or something the way she made those funky noises and blew up. She intimidated me, to the point, I hightailed it out of the barn, grabbed my handy dandy chicken book and started researching to find out that she was not rabid, she wanted to be a mother hen.

We would so much like to have a new batch of chicks, with Shenae being a 7 year old chicken perhaps, she's to old for this kind of work... Or is she not..........

Coming Down By The Bucket ~ "Full" and One Whimpy Horse

2010-06-01T12:35:00.009-04:00

We woke up to some "badly needed; rain" at first it was a nice steady watering the lawns, tree's, and garden kinda; rain~ Then, it let loose, filling up 5 gallon buckets; in no time.

Our neck of the woods has been going through quite a drought, the soil in the gardens were so dry and dusty, it lookes like sand. The grass even started to burn, leaving huge brown patches, our water level in the well dipped down to the point our faucets started to spit at us ~ Until late last night...

Thank you Lord, for this wet and rainy day!

Now, our Arabian, she is not so fond of the rain, not even willing to leave the barn. If she is out when the rains come, she just stands out there in the middle of the pasture like a statue (we've had to go out in some pretty bad thunderstorms to lead her back to the barn.) Do any of you horse owners have a horse that doesn't like to get wet? We have come to believe, she has very thin skin, as she just does not like to be brushed,or even loved on, she will either high tail it outside, or just gets really antzy. Her nick name is ~ " Miss Prissy"

Our Peony has been so bright, and beautiful but after our rain she is a little droopy. Hopefully, she isn't finished showing off her beauty for the year...

Speaking of beauty, our youngest grandchild just turned "1" on the 23rd of last month. She is just loving all the attention and the cake isn't so bad either.

We often have to stop and ask "where does the time go?" Just hard to believe, she is already a year old.

Love you little Z...

Those Who Believe~ Receive Comfort

2010-05-03T08:48:00.004-04:00

Thank you, all so much for the time you spent praying for Mom. After I sent my last post, things turned around for the worst.

We realize, however, her struggles over the last few years, and know she is in a much better place now. Mom is not only with our Lord, but with her oldest son, and when our time comes, we will meet again.

In our Catholic faith, we learn there are no coincidences, thing happen for a reason.

As we traveled on that long journey, our hearts bleeding from the lose of someone we all loved dearly. Hubby and I, talking away, discussing the fact that although, we are sad to let our mother go, my hubbies oldest brother (who passed away in the early 90's) will be so happy to be reunited with his mother.

Three hours or so into our trip (with another 11 hours to go) we are traveling through an area of road with huge rock ledges, bordering the right sides of the highway, on a rock that is located nearly at eye level, we both (simultaneously) see a rock with a message. "Hi Willie!"

We are both thrilled as we asked each other; "did you see that" Now we know, "for sure" she is safe and she is home...

Blessings to all of you,
Mel & Family

Another Prayer Answered...

2010-04-18T17:09:00.003-04:00

We are speechless ~ You people are the greatest, "Thank you all" so much for taking the time to pray for us...

She (mother-in-law) is sitting up and talking, the doctors are talking of moving her to another floor now that her oxygen levels are stable.

Thanks once again for all your thoughts and prayers.

Blessings,
Mel

Prayer Request

2010-04-16T07:16:00.002-04:00

As my mother-in-law is fighting for her life in ICU

She has fought lung problems for a number of years, and just in the last year or so was placed on oxygen. Wednesday, sometime, she got up and collapsed, from there she was taken by ambulance to the hospital. Receiving forced oxygen, however, the oxygen is not staying in her system.

Please pray for the family as well.

Thanks in advance,
Mel

Time to turn the heat back ~ UP

2010-04-09T12:21:00.015-04:00

Hello my friends,

Yesterday, was a perfectly warm and sunny day~ I skipped cleaning inside the house to put screens back in the windows, fix the fencing around the planter beds, cleaned up an old bird house, pruned a lilac bush, just whatever I could get into outside.

Something happened in the night time~ It is so cold here today, that even the chickens are looking for a warm spot. Shenae, has chosen the poop wagon in the stable area (smart girl) although somewhat stinky, she is more than happy to risk it...

Others, flock together in the aisle, until they spot "the food lady" but wait; she doesn't have food at all, she only has a silver object that sprays us with a bright lite. What is it Velma, can you tell, why is she pointing that thing at us? Barney, you're the man, get your booty up here and check it out.

Ugh, ladies can be; so bossy, do you know what it took to smooth Shenae~Nae over, just to get up on this poop wagon, just to spot some lady with a silver flashy thingy... nag, nag, nag...

A selected few, chose to remain in their beds in the chicken condo...

Are you looking at me?

This is our broody hen, who has been laying on eggs all winter, but "still" is not a mother. What is up with that?

I'm so hopeful for babies, here on our very own farm. Just imagine, those fluffy little, soft little babies.

Wonder what a Buff Orpington and a New Hampshire red would look like, or a Buff Orpington and a Delaware, or Buff Orpington and a Araucana.

For all those lucky enough to be foster parents to little chicks, please pray for us, or for little Mrs. Moody, to make us proud of the fact she is "Broody."

Blessings,

Mel

It's The Talk of The Town

2010-03-09T13:00:00.004-05:00

Bawk~ Bawk, Cluck~Cluck... hey ya, chickies & you too Mr. Rooster just look at that disk in the sky & feel the warm air; ahhh. Don't mind me, I'm just gonna stand right here in the doorway, and soak up some much needed heat from that thang, after all, my feathers are a tad bit faded.

Hey, you, chickie with the fading feathers... I'ma thinking of catching some rays on top of this blocky thing, but let me ask ya somtin; if I stand here, like so, does it make me look fat?

Not at all, dear, not at all... now just relax and enjoy the spring like weather.

Hello, to all my friendly bloggers, I have missed you all very, very, very, very, very, much, and want to thank each and every one of you for not deleting me from your blogs, as well as stopping in to visit while I've been away from my page.

I won't go into all the details, but will tell you, that over the last 3 months, we were put to the test. Oh, and how wonderful it is to have "faith" in our God, as without it; we never would have gotten through this horrible ordeal.

Also, would like to thank all our local friends for standing by us and praying for our family, we are so blessed to have you all in our lives.
Thank you for all your help & support~ XOXO

Awhile ago, I remember seeing a phrase that went something like this~

Lord, when the devil comes knocking at my door, would you get it for me?

Thank you Lord, for all your blessings.

As things are starting to round the bend~ I will be back with you all shortly.

I love you guys,
Mel & Family

Listening to the rooster crow & taking it all in

2010-01-23T13:20:00.011-05:00

As I sit, at our kitchen Island peering through the small window above the sink, the sun is shining ever so bright illuminating off the snow covered grounds. I hear Ugly Barney, our rooster, crowing away, since we haven't seen the sun for days, I have to wonder if he isn't singing.

Whatever, all the crowing is about, does he not look proud!

The whole flock is happy today, they haven't been out in the run for months, today they all poked their noggins out their hatch and decided to venture outdoors.

For those of you who do not own chickens, see what they can do for you, yes, provide you with some spectacular tasting desserts. Ok, the chickens supply the eggs all we have to do is teach our young to bake. Here you see our oldest GrandD putting the final touches onto the cake before we sink our teeth into it.

This was by far the smoothest cake ever, the frosting was light, the cake moist and filled with my own homemade Strawberry~Kiwi Jam, can you taste it?

So you see what a few chickens can do for you and your family...

I also, wanted to share with you a website, that I found while browsing my informational magazine called MARY JANES FARM. Now, for those bloggers who remember a previous blog of mine in search of a chicken whisperer, well, don't laugh but here he is.

The Chicken Whisperer blogtalkradio.com all I did was a web search with the title I'm passing on to you to check it out.

Have a great weekend my friends,

Mel

ThE ChIcKeN ChAiSe

2010-01-13T14:37:00.009-05:00

Just another day in the barn keeping up with chores~ Or is it!

Chores here are done first thing in the morning. Just look at the sunrise that greated me as I walk out the back of the barn. To think, it is only 4*F...

As I sift through the horse stalls with a future fork (why on earth would you name a tool that is used to muck stalls; a future fork) I hear a weird sound. At first, it sounded like an electrical short in the electric fence a snap, snap, snap, or a tap, tap, tap; kind of noise, but how could it be coming from the opposite side of the pasture? This is why...
Can you see it?

This is a chicken with a frozen snake held in her beak. Now, it's a darn good thing that snake is dead or you would not catch me standing here taking these pictures. I'd be over there somewhere by the sunset. They each had to share in the moment, by stealing it from each other and running around the barn floor. The noise is them smacking it on the floor (are they trying to kill it, or just trying to chop it up)

In and out of the stalls they ran, around the tractor, under the tractor, right past me... One would lose it and another would grab it, and start running away.

This would be me!

The Truck Is Warm~ It's Just Cold Outside...

2010-01-09T19:13:00.008-05:00

With temps only in the single digits, my idea was to stay warm and cozy in the house.

Hubby, had other ideas; stating we needed to take a trip to town for chicken feed. So, here Grand D & I sit in the truck outside the feed store. This is our little country store, where we go to purchase all our critters food supplies

As Grand D & I sit in the warm cab of the truck, I decide to share a snowy scene with a few of you. It has been snowing here nearly everyday for a little over a week. Not the heavy stuff (thank goodness) just flurries adding up to about 12 -13 inches.

Gottcha honey! Just hopping back into the truck, I sneak a snapshot of my favorite man.

Then, another of our Grand D, who we sometimes call our fashion diva. She knew to dress warm today.

Hubby surprised us all, when he took us to...

You guessed it; The Texas Road House, for lunch. We all had chicken critters, a salad, and those warm sweet buns they give you with the cinnamon butter.
Now, I don't know about you guys, but I could eat those all by myself. LOL

Not without consequences... I know!

After we had lunch, we headed back over the hill for home. Still so cold today, hubby built us a fire in the fireplace and here we sit all warm and snuggly.

What have you all been doing? Is it as cold where you live, how about snow? I'll send you some if you want...

Have a glorious weekend

A New Year Is Coming

2009-12-30T13:06:00.002-05:00

Wowser, It's difficult to believe; only one more day left of 2009. How many of us will goof up on writing 2009 on checks instead of 2010; I know, I will, a time or two...

Here, in the NE part of the country, many of us woke up to below zero temps. When I went to put the dogs out for there first potty break the metal handle on the door was so frozen your skin stuck to it (kinda like the little boy in "The Christmas Story" where he sticks his tongue to the metal pole) where the heat from your hand created just enough moisture. We figured we'd be in for a really cold night; last night just before "I thought," I was going to bed, I went to fill up the dogs water bucket; come to find out the water was frozen. Hubby, in his PJ's had to crawl under the whirlpool with a drop light and heat gun to thaw the pipe.
Got it, in just about 15 minutes when we heard the water gush in, Hip~Hip Horay!!! (Dogs were happy too...)

Still cold out there, about 15*F right now, don't think it will make it to the 23* they were talking of this morning. Wish, I could kick back, with a nice hot cup of cocoa (complete with Marshmellows) snuggle into a warm blanket with a really good book. Not an easy task, with a cranky 7 month old. We have had the pleasure of spending the last week with our littlest Grand D. Not sure if she is getting a cold, cutting teeth, or allergic to the many critters (pets) but she has had a stuffy runny nose. Lots of times she cannot even use her binkie or take the bottle as her little tiny noses is so stuffed. We have one of those fancy smancy suction bulbs, it works, but just for a very short period. The local pharmacist advised using benadryl as it is according to them the safest for a baby, does not seem to be touching it. She is at the moment on one of her 20 minute power naps, while her Baby Eienstein plays sleepy music in the background.

She's just so adorable!!!

My eyes is getting heavy also, so maybe I should take this oportunity for a little shut eye.

Just in case, I don't post before the New Year~

We wish all of you a Very Happy New Year!

Christmas Is In The Air

2009-12-19T18:46:00.016-05:00

Our yearly tradition; takes us to our usual Christmas tree farm to find the perfect Balsam Fir . Oh, I just love the smell of the Balsam Fir, it's like a citrus scent of sorts, yet, Christmas~ie...

Here you see hubby (with chain saw in hand) and Grand D following behind, I'm last in line and the one taking the pictures.

Last Sunday, the temperature was almost 40* F it was raining and snowing all in one. We walked, and walked, and walked, we searched all over, crossing the road in several places, even got back in the truck and drove down the road. This year all the trees seemed to have a brownish color to them, and they appeared to be shaggy, rather than trimmed.

It ended up, that we were not satisfied with any of the trees, figured we'd get in the truck and head for town; surely there'd be a few lots with pre-cut trees. Right? Right?

Wrong, what is going on, Not a single one, this is surreal... Discouraged, we stopped at Denny's to grab a bite to eat, and to talk over what our next option is. Will we find a Christmas tree this year, "a real one" that we can sit back and enjoy the scents. I mentioned to hubby, that a few weeks back (right after Thanksgiving) a huge tractor trailer truck had delivered trees to one of the veggie stand places. Not even sure, if he would have any left, we decided this would be our last shot at getting a real Christmas tree this year.

As luck would have it, they had 2 left, we bought one and the owner of the lot dragged the last in for his family, then shut off his outside lights.

Oh, Glory be... we are so fortunate and tickled...

In the spirit now, I drive back to town the following day to pick up a few more decorations at Wally~ Marts; the Good Will Store is right on the way so I thought I'd just take a peek.

Wowser, a lucky streak, I found this snowman, for a really decent price; can you believe, only $2.00. I also purchased a 9' strand of garland (brand new, and wrapper still around it, from Wally~Mart) for only $.75

Now that's luck!

He looks so comfy right here in the front window.

Looking through my Country Sampler magazine what do I see; spotted something I knew I could do right here in my own house (I have everything that it requires) and would like to share it with you all.

1st you will need a basket, like the one you see here, or any medium sized basket would do.

The next step, is to place something white in the bottom of your basket (I just so happen to have a roll of cotton left over from my horse's first aid kits.)

For the third step, you'll need to gather some trim pieces either from a tree outside or (if your like me, you'll have some in your Christmas stash that you didn't even know you had.)

Go find an ornament of your choice (I'm a real snowman fan) could be a Santa, or reindeer, whatever you want it to be. Then start poking in a few branches around your ornament.

Like so...

Toss in some pine cones; and wha ~la you now are the proud crafter of a new Christmas center piece for your tabletop.

Your basket is complete.

I made the runner out of some old material I have been hanging onto for years, and then I placed a candle on a saucer with a ring of berries to finish it off.

There will be more decorating pictures to share, I'm still puttering around trying to cozy up the house for the Holidays.

Country Sampler is an inspirational magazine for a crafter at heart.

Jesus Loves Me ~ This I know

2009-12-14T11:55:00.007-05:00

As a young child, I followed my mother to many different churches , before our family settled in the country and made our home just up the road from my maternal grandparents and the little white church.

"The Little White Church known as the "Keeneyville Methodist Church" (I warned all of you that I grew up in the boonies, I wasn't kiddin') sat next to our local grocery store, right on the main road going in and out of our little burg. If you stood in Grandma's and Grandpa's front window you could not only see the church, you could see the people coming and going as well (I spent a great deal of time at my grandparents.) I remember; Grandma getting us all cleaned and dressed to attend church & Sunday school. As a child you don't really understand the powers of Our Lord, or what "faith" is all about. I'm not sure, even after all these years if I have a good understanding of it all, all I know, and realize, is "there is a God" and I want to do everything in my power to be his follower. (Pray for me)

To make a looonng story short, my childhood was a difficult one, like so many others. I made a huge mistake, fell for a guy, and seemed to have fallen back into a trap much like the one of my childhood, and figured out right quick that was not what I wanted or expected out of life. I moved on with my life... filed for the "D" word and put all that behind me.

Then, we found each other 28 almost 29 years ago, it was "love" at first sight, and somehow we both had the very same butterfly feelings in our stomach's. He was Catholic and I was Methodist, but we didn't really attend church until we had children of our own. Then, as we traveled around the world with the military, we started attending Church again, one week we may go to a Methodist Church, then the next a Catholic Church, whatever; until after many years later, I discovered, how at ease I was at mass, I just had a strong feeling of belonging.

A few years back, I mulled over the idea of converting, so that I could share the faith as a Catholic. However, when you have been married previously, there is a lot to this, many different steps to take to prepare for the occasion.

We have taken those steps, it has been two long years, and we finally have set the date to marry in the Catholic Church.

"I'm Going To Be A Catholic, I'm really, really, blessed! "

A Christmas gift we can charish, forever...

2009-12-12T08:33:00.000-05:00

A veiw from our front windows

Winter weather~ With winds gusting at 50 plus MPH, schools & businesses closing for the day, bracing for the 3 feet of snow thought to hit our area. We are so lucky in that we missed most of the snow (either that or the wind just blew it all away) it's it really bitter cold out, but we are not complaining.

Date did not reset after charging the batteries for the camera actual date is 12/11/09.

Just an example of what we were looking at (east side of our house) this is a white out. When I wake up to this, I pretty much know, today will be an inside day of activities.

This is Grand D making sugar cookies, she literally spent all day baking and frosting. Definately has more of an attention span than her granny. LOL

Thanks sweetie, these are the bestest sugar cookies I've ever eaten.

Now, last week we as a family drove to town and finished up a batch of wine we had brewing. A bottle will go into gift baskets for Christmas.

Thanks to the owner and his sons for giving us the class. They were very helpful, and have a great little set up there.

Sorry, this is going to be a short post Kohl's has a good sale going today (however, only until 1pm) we are going shopping. I'd better get my farm duties finished up.

God Bless You ALL,

Mel

JuSt AnOtHeR DaY On ThE FaRm

2009-12-08T09:29:00.000-05:00

An early morning for this farm goddess...

Up at 4:20 AM with a dog that would not stop whimpering at my bedside. Must crawl out of bed grab a hoody and feel my way down the stairs, in the dark (thinking it must be somewhere around six-ish.) After five minutes or so, I go back to the door and call for the dog to come in, "no dog" (now thinking, he has noticed he isn't in his shock collar and has slipped through the fenceline.) Go to the back room, grab my barn coat and head out the backdoor to go find him. However, once I reached the woodshed door I can hear him bark, call him; once more, but he thinks it's time to romp in the snow, turns away and darts off. He must have felt the anger building because as I turn to head in, he comes running up and darts in the door ahead of me.

Now, maybe, I can get another hour of sleep before the other family members alarm clocks start going off; NOT after tossing under the covers, not able to get warm enough for sleep...

Grand D's at my bedside; "Grammy, something is wrong with the hot water it's ice cold." So, out of bed, down the stairs to the utility room this time. Drag over the cooler, (to stand on, in order to reach the knob on hotwater tank) turn it up, back in the shower she goes.

It is now 6:20AM

Must have coffee... I do not function, "well" without my first cup of coffee, and now, I'm really dragging, in need of a set of crowbars to hold my eyes open.

Grand D's off to school, hubby is up now (I hear the floor creaking) getting ready for work, I think; I'll make him his favorite on the run breakfast sandwich. Hubby really likes an egg with a slice of swiss cheese and either; bacon, ham, or sausage beteew two pieces of toast. He'll be off to a great start.

Now that I'm home alone, it's time to feed the dogs, and cats then let them out; before I head out to the chores in the barn. Climbed in the hay loft threw down a bale of hay, rather lazy now; I decide to use the 4 wheeler to carry the hay to the pasture for me. Darn thing, won't start; have to remove the seat and a rubber hose that leads to the carberator and squirt some starter fluid in the carberator to get her to run. Out we go , Brrr RR rr a chilly morning here... cut the twine off the hay only to discover this is a bad bale (must have gotten wet) it is moldy. Horses cannot tolerate mold, or dust as they have sensitive stomaches and colic easily. Back tot he loft another bale of hay is placed on the 4 wheeler and divided equally between the three horses.

With a storm brewing in the SW and headed our way, I thought; I'd clean the chicken coop as part of my morning chores.

The chicken maid is paid in eggs... One brooder box has 6 eggs in it, another; has 2, and the last 4. The first six, I placed in my pocket and head for the house with them. Return back to coop with shovel, pitchfork, and coal shovel (coal shovels, work great for the harder to clean spots, that cling to the floor) to continue my cleaning efforts. Just after a few scoops, I feel that spot in my back that if I'm not careful and pick up to much, or turn the wrong way my back goes out. Sure enough... not so bad, that I cannot continue, so that I did. Once the cart was filled with chicken do-do; I trudge in the snow to my dumping spot (with eggs in my coat pocket) pick up the back end of the cart, to give it a boost and what do I hear; c r u n c h!
It is at this moment, I realize what I have just done, now one eggs short of a dozen... LOL

The time has come that I have to clean my own coop

Happy Farming girls,
Mel

Simple Blessings

2009-12-01T08:40:00.000-05:00

Can you believe this; this sign was made just for us... "Bless This Barn" not many people live in converted barns as we do. I found it at TSC on one of my trips to the big city, well, not really a big city, but growing.

Here at the farm, we are blessed with some of the most beautiful sunsets, like on this awesome evening.

A drive through post last evening (when I finally remembered to bring my camera) reminded me of the long seperations from my hubby while he was called to duty. Unless, you are a military spouse, it is impossible for you to know how difficult this job really is (for those who are sent, and for those left behind) the responsibilites are "huge". This photo is of a fence surrounding our airfield, the family members of returning soldiers create these with plastic cups, and I believe, in some cases; plastic bags to welcome back our troops ( their husbands, wives, sons, daughters, etc. etc.)

God Bless Our Troops & Their Families

Middle of November ~ And Lovin' Every Minute

2009-11-17T14:36:00.000-05:00

This is just unheard of for this time of year, in NY. It has been so mild weather wise, we have been busy outdoors trying to wrap everything up before "the real winter" reaches our area. Hubby and I have busy on a 3 stall run in shed for the horses, somplace they can hang out besides locked in their stalls on those windy, wet, chilly, and miserable days.

Even the dogs are liking this sunshine; see ~

Marley & baby Dunkin playing with the jolly ball, well; it was a jolly ball for the first 15 minutes after taking it from the trunk of my car and handing it to Marley. These jolly balls are made for horses, they have a big handle on the top of them and "suppose to stay inflated" unless you have a Marley.
Dunkin is nearly (Nov. 20th) 9 months old now, but oh; so much bigger than his mom. I love his lab build; that big blocky head, huge brown eyes, enormous feet (why they're as big as my hands) wide chest, just as cute as can be.

Marley is somewhere around 2 years of age, can you believe we've had her for just a little over a year. She is a good dog, spoiled; but good. Her and Dunkin love to race around the yard, she is way faster than Dunkin (maybe she's part greyhound) and she knows it; my flower beds to too.

Today, I was busy with defrosting the big freezer, my intent was to clear out some space for the deer Hubby got last week. The only thing is; upon putting everything back in, it looks like we may need to purchase another freezer (or bury the deer meat, like they use to do way back when.) I'm also in the process of making more strawberry-kiwi jam, my little family, already ate the 7 jars I put up in August... This time, I made a double batch.

Just as I was finishing up the freezer I walk to the deep sink to empty a pan of water and this is what I saw. A tad bit nervous; I was, as Niles lay there like that, he looks; shall I say, dead ( he is getting up there in age) but still loves to hunt, maybe that's why he's so tired. I woke him up, as I blew in his ear, this is what he did.

I hear canning jars popping, that's such a joyful sound. Hopefully, this batch will last until at least February :)

As the sun starts to set, the hens and their rooster start heading for the coop.

Thanks be to God, for this wonderful day...

Good Mornin' Fella's

2009-11-07T09:04:00.000-05:00

With a chill in the air, even the horses were unsure if they wanted to leave their cushy environment.

However cold it may be, hay talks people... They don't mind the cold.

As you can see, we woke up with a dusting of snow, and Brrr only 30*F

Spotted Leaf says, "sometimes it's good to be a bunny..." He has no intentions of braving the elements outdoors.

Here you see the back half of Shenae~ nae so content is she eating her mash, with Mr. Roo standing guard. Shenae~nae has decided she is going to molt, you see all those black specks over the hay, those my friends are her feathers. With winter approaching, perhaps, I should collect them to glue back on (in the event it dips into the negative numbers) to this thin feathered chicken.

Things are alittle fuzzy inside the chicken coop this morning. Due to the cold, I propped a plastic lid over the chicken door, this morning when I removed it, I noticed little chards of plastics all around it. We have a rat, it has taken up residence under the coop. Hmmm wonder if this has anything to do with the decline in eggs. We just figured it was because of the colder weather. Now, what to do about getting the rodent out of there (without any harm to the chickens, or the cats) any ideas?

Rustic Dreams

2009-11-04T13:28:00.000-05:00

Since making the sofa table awhile back Hubby has been asking me to build a TV stand. It has taken a bit of thinking, "I think, I have an idea" (he sure does have a lot of faith in me.) A bit of a challenge; lets just wait and see what comes out of this.

Hubby offered to start up the chain saw and cut off some more downed branches, behind me you can see this huge clump birch. This is what's making all my dreams for furnishings possible. This tree is located just down over the hill from the horses pasture, one of my favorite spots here on the farm. It is so quiet back here, I often mention how I'd love to build a small cedar cabin on the flat here. You can see some of the cedars there behind the birch tree, it wouldn't be that difficult.

Way in the background, you can see the woods get really thick, this is where the beavers have made dams, with small streams running through. I love to walk back here, to cross over the streams to the other side of our property. Over yander, there are some young oak trees, and several mature sugar maples, as well as Tamaracks.

Back in the early 1960's it was those very same Tamaracks that were used to build the barn in which we now call home. For the past two years, one of the family members makes a surprise visit to us, on what he remembers as his families farm. During his last visit here, he shared with us that his family cut all the wood from the property dragging it from the back with horses, stacking it to dry, then waiting to get enough people together to build this masterpiece.

Beavers have also dammed a section making a huge pond with a beaver condo right in the middle of it. The edges of the beavers pond is piled high with chews of many shapes and sizes. This is where, I got the idea to collect some beaver chews to construct the railing for our front porch, which you see here.

So, you see folks, this is where rustic dreams really do come true... One day, there will be a little cedar cabin that snuggles up to the clump birch.

Perhaps, I could build it myself.

Somebody had a birthday here yesterday

2009-10-15T07:44:00.000-04:00

It's my hubby, Happy Birthday Honey!

Waking up early, I stumble my way out of bed and down to the coffee pot (must have coffee) search for the "Country Women" magazine with the Belgium waffle recipe, there it is.

Grab my kitchen aid mixer and add 2 egg yolks, (put the egg whites in a smaller bowl for later) beat them; then to that added 1 cup of butter and 3/4 cups of sugar, plus a heaping tsp of vanilla, and last 1 cup of flour. Now, in that smaller bowl you'll need to whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Once you have completed all this, add the stiffed egg whites to the other ingredients (very carefully) by folding the two together. Wha~ La you now have a belgium waffle batter. Heat you waffle iron, grease, cook, and enjoy!!!

On his birthday, he is treated like a King...(Weelll, almost) started out breakfast in bed, then off to work he goes. Meanwhile, back at the ranch; I drag out the big box which will later be given to the birthday King.

It's a one man tree stand, just as he has been asking for, since deer season opened here. We are such great hunters, this stand will be used for many naps as we like to sit and listen to the sounds of birds chirping their fall to winter melodies, the leaves rustling from a squirrel that just so happens to be collecting his winter food supply, sound of the wind working it's way through the trees. All these tranquil sounds will put you to sleep, the only deer we catch is the ones we sit dreaming about.

When hubby arrived home from a long day at the office, it was his choice on homemade lasagna or out to his favorite little restaurant. Ended up we ate out, then came home to his chocolate cake topped with ice cream. Hubby sitting in front of the cake that is now on fire, and grandD who is coaching her Grampy to take a deep breath (without passing out) to blow out his candles.

"Happy Birthday Honey" we love you!

Autumn Season is Upon Us

2009-10-03T11:40:00.000-04:00

The Autumn season has shed some color on us here in the Northeast. It is so pretty to look at, and the smell of maple from under here is amazing. Vicky, do you remember sitting under the huge maples at Grandma's & Grandpa's? I'm so thrilled, we have our own maples now. In the spring these trees supply many folks with maple syrup. Although, we do not have the equiptment to do this, we have a person who comes every year, taps the trees and gives us two quarts of syrup. Now, that's the best!

Last weekend, we took a little drive about 45 minutes south to our favorite little town to pick apples. We try to go every fall and pick our own from the orchard of our choice. This year, as you can see from this picture the trees and the ground was just loaded with fruit. Did you all notice, we have our jackets on, fall is really in the air, it started to mist a bit just prior to us leaving the orchards.
I love going for apples, this is something we used to do with my mother, and on ocassion, my Grandma. Grandma was one who could not stand to see something go to waste (sometimes to the extreme) she would collect mostly apples from the ground with spots on them, they were less expensive, she'd just trim around the bad spots. She would take them home, peel them (that was something we liked to watch her do) no one could peel an apple as fast as she could, and all in one long peel... Make applesauce and boy was that good, a real treat! Here we are after loading our bushel (2 bags) into the trunk of the car, each enjoying an apple we picked.

On our way back home, just a few miles from the orchard, was this awesome fence. I really love this style, can you imagine, all the cedar posts you'd have to cut to put into this, but in the end people like me would drive by and just have to take home a picture. I could see this stretched out along our own pastures, we have a few cedars...

I have finished decorating my sofa table, hubby tells me almost everyday how much he likes this table (He has even requested for me to make a TV stand) now this is my very first attempt at crafting tables of any kind and especially from tree branches. I'm already dreaming of what to put together next, maybe one day I will see what I can do, then try to sell a few. These tables are popular in the Adirondacks and go for nearly $700 for me I enjoy working on these sorts of things.

With the daytime highs of 46* F it got a tad bit chilly for my liking, first fire in the fireplace this year. Now, we usually don't start burning wood until late October, so hope you all down south are ready. A few flurries have touched the grounds in the mountains already, winter is creeping in on us.

Well, that just about brings you up to date on what we have been doing the last few weeks. Time for me to browse some blogs.

Blessings,

Mel

I think, I need a bigger basket... Phunny animal photo's

2009-09-25T08:32:00.000-04:00

This is Miss Noisy

One morning, as I'm trying to work at the table our cat decided she was ready for a cat nap. She climbs in this basket (about half her size) starts circling, then lays down, gets up cicles again; lays down.

Ah, this is it... tucked in and ready for a my siesta; what do you think, do I look fat in this basket???

Do you all remember our little puppy Dunkin, well he isn't little anymore. He is just seven months old and weighs approx. 65 pounds.

So much for that siesta, huh... Dunkin, "You know, you cannot outrun me, I may be chubby, but I can still beat you."

"Oh yeah, Look at me now, I will not be out done by a cat." Pay no attention to the ball I'm going after. Actually, it's a sunspot... OK

"Hey, what have we here, we are suppose to be free rangers, just check out your garden, we eat your corn, peck your tom-atoes, & we even chase it down with a few worms or grubs." How long are we in for, a week or two...

There is never a dull moment here on this farm. LOL

Hope you all enjoy your weekend...

Blessings,

Mel

I love Everything country...

2009-09-16T15:28:00.001-04:00

Sometime during the early part of summer, we had a storm that produced large amounts of hail and strong winds.

On the back of our property, below our main pasture sits a beautiful birch tree. I have often dreamed aloud with Hubby on how we should build a primative little hunting cabin along side this wonderful tree. It is so quiet there, you can see a long ways, often spotting wildlife, such as; turkey, ducks, deer and even black bear. During the storm the high winds bent many of this clump birch branches to the ground, being that this is one of my favorite spots on the property (because of the clump birch) I felt a calling to do something with her limbs. Driving the four wheeler and cart, plus a few hand saws; off over the hill I went. Now let me assure you, that this proved not to be an easy task, I sawed, and sawed, until the saw came to a screaching halt and would not budge. At this point I had to wiggle it loose often trying to start where I left off. By this time, I'm sweating bullets, going from one side of the tree limb to another, until about an hour into it, I have two long and large limbs to work with.

Three days later, this is what my hands crafted, it will become a sofa table. I'm thinking of placing Hubby's moose antlers on top with a lamp and some family pictures.

I love rustic things... to think, " God gave me this gift to create and build" rustic furnishings. I must admit, I'm thinking on what to make next.

Glenn Beck - Current Events & Politics - Where will Glenn be on 9/12?

2009-09-10T11:34:00.001-04:00

Glenn Beck - Current Events & Politics - Where will Glenn be on 9/12?

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Aren't Friday's Great

2009-09-04T07:21:00.000-04:00

For all you apron lovers out there, sneak over to http://pansycottagegarden.blogspot.com/ she has a beautiful apron to give away. It is reversible, how awesome is that, plus it has fall colors.
Good luck everyone!

Today, I'm trying to figure out what to do with all my leftover cukes. I have already made; bread and butter pickles, and sweet relish. We are not big picklers, so didn't really want to make dill pickles.

We have had alot of summer squash this year, I came up with a really delicious way to cook them. Start your grills; ladies...

Gather your squash, wash, slice into 1" slices lay them flat.
Then, prepare a small dish with Olive oil, basil, onion powder, and garlic salt or powder,
brush the oil on each slice with a basting brush, grill, and once they are cooked thru, (approx. 10 minutes) top them off with Asiago cheese. (Can you believe, my hubby loves summer squash now) he he...

All my Tom-atoes were ruined by blight this year; :( I wanted to cry, I had such plans for them. It ended up that I had to pluck them all from the ground, and carry them away to discard them. Needless to say, I had to buy stock in tomatoe sauce. Not all bad, in town, there is a family that makes "the best" spaghetti sauce ever... "Morgia's" I stopped in and started my stash, a few more stops will get us our winter supply. I will use the plain tomatoe sauce for such things as pizza sauce, chili sauce etc.

Blight is a terrible thing, it not only attacks tomatoes, but spreads into potatoes as well. Once you discover blight, it is very important that you get rid of all the affected plants, throw them away. Clean your garden of any fruits or veggies that fell from these plants, as blight can carry over into next years crops. I'm going to try my planter boxes this year, for a fall garden, I have read that you can plant all kinds of things in the fall prior to the first frost, you just have to mulch over your plantings. I'll keep you all informed...

Have a wonderful (long holiday) weekend.
Mel

The Jam

2009-08-28T20:48:00.000-04:00

First, I get my Jelly jars boiling for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Next, I gather all my ingredients

1 bag of frozen starwberries (defrosted)

3 kiwi's

5 cups sugar

1 TBLS. crystallized ginger

1 container of fruit pectin

Chop the kiwi and mince the Crystallized ginger add to an 8 quart sauce pot, then add your 3 cups of strawberries.

Mash the berries (I use a whisk) once berries are mashed add the packet of pectin, bring to a boil, continue to boil for 1 minute; stir constantly. After all ingredients has boiled for a full minute, add the 5 cups of sugar, bring this to a boil stirring constantly; boil for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Grab your jars from the boiling water as needed and pour the hot Jam into the jars leaving 1/4 of an inch head space, then place lids on jars. Once all jars are filled place in a hot water bath for 15 minutes to boil. Remove each jar and place on a towel, upside down if you'd like; to seal.

I used 8 ounce Jelly jars and this recipe provided me with six jars of jelly... Mmmmm

Lets break out the ritz crackers, shall we?

Summer Time ~ Fun Times

2009-08-28T08:18:00.000-04:00

Hello Fellow Bloggers,

Our summer has been rather busy, therefore, has swept away to quickly.

A~ had a friend come for a week long visit, they had gone to school ,but as those of you who are familiar with military lives and the frequent moves; G~ moved away with her family a few years ago. The first year, A~ visited them for a week, so it was G~s turn to stay with us. Here they are busy making brownies. Yum~Yum

This is them sitting at the island, just being kids...

A trip to the zoo with A & G, do you see what we see?

Few babysittings with Z~ she is now 3 months old, a happy little bundle of love.

Okay, very flustered, for some crazy reason, (more than likely me) after this post, I had 3 more pictures and an explaination of... but, when I tried to complete this task, clicking on Image icon it was like frozen. Would not bring up picture file, this just means, I have to do a seperate post (a promise to cuzin Vicky) of my Strawberry -Kiwi Jam.

TO BE CONTINUED

A post that hit home

2009-08-07T23:03:00.000-04:00

Hello again,

Folks, it is late and I'm holding my head up to see through the bottoms of my eye lids, so let me make this short...

At The Back Forties blog there is a post I encourage you all to check out, called; " The Emporer Is Still Naked" it is a reality check for what Americans are up against. I stand firm that We The People, need to get up out of our easy chairs and pay attention to what is happening in our own backyards.

Do You Smell The Coffee

2009-08-07T06:59:00.000-04:00

Good morning friends,

As always, Dunkin woke me up this morning bright and early, chewing (nibbling) on his blankie. I stumbled down the steps with the three dogs (who were racing down them) to let them out at "almost" 6 AM then headed right for the coffee maker. I don't know about you all, but for me, I have to have that kick start before anything else can be accomplished.

Dunkin, he looks so innocent, does he not...

We are just getting home from the beach in North Carolina, where the weather was superb! Everyday was sunny and hot with temps in the 90's, where we enjoyed laying in the sun and quickly running into the waves to cool off before soaking up more sun, we all have some awesome tans. The week was spent with my husbands family, close to 30 people, ( hubby has only brothers and no sisters,) thankfully, there's sister-in-laws... Brother Scott & his wife reserved the two townhouse type condo's right on the ocean, we split up into groups and shared the cooking, and other chores. It was a great time, we had the pleasure of seeing all his brothers, wives, and kids, (some of our neices and nephews had kids) this was first time in many years that all the families were able to take vacations from work and join us.

Thanks Scott, this was a vacation that got us thinking....

You see, we do not enjoy freezing our tails off, nor being taxed to death, nor paying outrageous prices for gasoline, and heating oil, and did I mention, the utility companies sucking the life out of people... Anyhow, enough said on that, but what I'm getting to is; that hubby and I both agreed it's time to move on, he has applied for a few jobs down south, and we are hopeful that we are headed for a warmer, more relaxed lifestyle. The most recent job he has applied for will be a promotion, and in the long run, will be a better retirement benifit. We have both been browsing the internet for real estate, looking for a nice little farmette, with a pool, and small pastures for the horses, (some fruit trees would be a plus) of course, there out there, but finding the right one on a computer is not likely.

We will keep you all posted~

Warmer Weather Gets Granny Outside

2009-06-25T11:13:00.000-04:00

Hello,

Summer temps have finally made their way North, It is actually perfect for me. Yesterday, I took Autie to the local zoo, ended up purchasing a seasons pass, with this purchase we maybe able to visit other zoo's for half price "if not free of charge," depending on if they are on the list of zoo's agreeing to be associated with ours.

It was 86* yesterday so many of the animals were asleep and hiding in their far off dens. However, we did have the opportunity to see a few.Like this Snowy White Owl... Whooooo are you looking at? As we approached their living space they were also asleep, Autie push a tree branch out of her way to snap this photo. She is a swell photographer!

We'd passed by this Bob cats cage earlier in the day, and he was sprawled out under a big tree trunk fast asleep, later we'd walked by and he was laying close to the fence... perfect pose.

Look way out there, do you see this guy, his rack was absolutely huge. This folks is where the Elk hang out, the rack on this one was (I think, 8 points) covered in velvet, and to us it seems heavy to have to carry on top of ones head. I took this for my hubby, he will drool over this guy... It will remind of him of a few elk hunts he took in Alaska.

We saw a black bear all spread out half in the shade of a tree branch and half in the hot sun.(I just wanted to get in there and tap on his shoulder and tell him to move back a bit, into the shade.) Being as hot as it was I figured he was resting comfortably, I'd just better mind my own business. After all, we've all heard the saying when you wake someone up there are grouchy as a bear, so we tip toed away.

We wandered over to the mini barn where we spotted a miniature pony and two mini donkeys. They looked alittle ratty, have not yet shedded out, and their tummies were kinda bloated, maybe a little wormy. At any rate, we pulled up some clover, and started to hand feed the mini pony, then soon after one of the donkeys joined us, in a distance was another mini donkey, she was very intimidated by the others, I started to speak to her in her language hee haw~hee haw; folks I wish you could have been there... She was so excited she started to scream hee~haw right back, only she wouldn't stop, we got her to come in close enough she got a couple hands of clover and grass too. Autie and I decided we would call it a day and head for home, all the while in the background we hear this mini donkey squealing away. Poor little lady~ we'll bring her some good snacks next time.

Here on the farm, we had a visitor today, our little Madie was here. She loves the chickens, and begged to go feed them. I just bought a big cantalope yesterday, I cut a big piece off for her and took her out to feed the chickens.

Now, a sneak peek of some of my gardening,the trash can potatoes, after this picture was taken, I added 3 more inches of dirt and planted 4 more potatoes on top of these.

Things are slowly growing and should provide a little corn, peas, beans, squash, cantalope, broccoli, onions, asparugus will go one more year before we can start benifiting from it, however, she is about 5 feet tall and all blossoms.

Praise be to God...

P.S. We are aiming for 90* today.... Yeah Baby!

The Jitters

2009-06-18T11:15:00.000-04:00

Time is nearing for my oral surgery, I will be undergoing a dental implant surgery for a tooth lost 3 years ago from a dead or dying nerve. The reason it took this long is because I opt to do the straightening first with the use of invisaligns (braces made of a clear plastic.) For the surgery part the dentist has perscribed a very high dose of Amoxicillan (875mg) every 12 hours. Now, I have a problem with this, as Amoxicillan is the one and only antibiotic I can tollerate for Bronchitis. Usually, my family doctor will perscribe 250mg tablets as he knows what problems I endure from even the 500mg tablets.

I have done some research and find that the new studies show the side effects outway the risks involved with being put on such high doses of antibiotics prior to dental work. I do not want to build up a resistance to amoxicillan from taking this much to the point it no longer fights the bronchitis, I usually get once every fall. Are their any professionals out there(you can remain anonomous, as a matter of fact, please do) that could tell me if a lower dose would be just as effective say 500 mg twice a day. I'm even willing to put up a fight with a yeast problem and stomach issues if this is what it takes. However, it scares me to think of taking the 875mg tablets. I do have a phobia about meds, I do not take meds often and prefer not to...

Pray, that whatever decisions are made that I will have no complications and under our fathers care the whole time. I wish I could relax when it comes to dental procedures; but that is what happens when you have a few bad experiences in the dental chair. And to think all I want is to be back to normal again (my tooth.)

Living At The Funny Farm

2009-06-16T08:05:00.000-04:00

It's early morning. the sun has just come up and is peeking over the distant trees. The Grand Princess is getting herself ready for another day at school, I'm at my laptop going down my list of blogagains, when the Grand Princess says; "Hey Grammy, Have you seen Noisy" I turn my head towards the Grand Princess to see Noisy (OUR VERY WEIRD CAT) straddled over the stair railing, look.... She lays here, just like so, quite often she is really an odd cat.

A little later in the morning as the Grand Princess is walking down the driveway, I ask if she can see Sierra in the tall grass within the lower pasture. Can you see Sierra?

Just a few days back, I had been running errands and decided to park my car at the top of the driveway, on count of more errands that needed to be attended to later that day. As I'm working around, I go out the front door and spot the old pair of chickens, (well one rooster and a chicken) circling the car as if they want to go for a ride.

I told you we live at the Funny farm....

Just the Cutest ~ Baby

2009-06-06T05:57:00.000-04:00

ZOE

Here she is, just a few hours old in one of the hats crocheted by some of our local elders, and donated for all babies born in our local hospital.

Our youngest daughter, made this labor and delivery thing seem like an piece of cake. Having gone in the hospital to be induced, and the doctor on call refusing this being done (because he didn't believe in it) we spent the night with a nursewho was coming in the room (what seemed like every 5 minutes) to check monitor, to administer pain meds (which by the way, stopped contractions to the point they had to give some other meds to start contactions up, once they had stopped.) The very next morning at 7AM the nurse came in examined mommy, who was only dialated to 2 cm and was told she could go on this way for 3 to 4 days, an hour later another exam revealed she was at 5cm, and at 9:25 she was at 10cm and feeling that urge to push; 9:44 baby was here...

Why this photo comes up bigger is beyond me, however, this is Zoe at 3 days old, in her bassinet at Grammy & Grampy's house. She is just so adorable, seeing her picture just makes me wanna pick her up, and give her kisses on those big puffy cheeks (which by the way, runs in our family.) LOL

Yesterday, I spent the day in one of our rentals painting walls in the kitchen and even got all the cabinets painted. Originally, I was going to antique those cabinets, but they look awesome sooo, I'm not sure that I will. I must say, I'm not happy with our previous tenants, they left all the cleaning up to us and on top of it all, there was a "no smoking policy in the lease" (due to the fact, I have asthma, and cannot tolerate smoke) I'm feeling it in my chest today, Icky!!! I have to repaint all the ceilings and either wash the walls with vinegar & water or sand them and apply a fresh coat of sealer. We had to replace part of the kitchens subflooring, due to a water leak and the faucet nozzle (which tenants replaced with a spraying nozzle) that sprayed half the kitchen down. Also, had to replace subflooring in bathroom under toilet, because tenants flushed baby wipes ( a huge no-no) which ended up stuck in the pipes while tenant decided to leave for as few days while she went home to visit family. These wipes swell up once they are in the pipes and have to be fished out by a professional plumber (tenants did repay us for that part of it) the problem was they flushed the tiolet and it ended up overflowing and sitting on the floor for a few days along with the blue cleaner. So, to make a longer story shorter we have been working on that rental for over a month trying to get it back in commission. I'll post some before and afters to this in a later post.

Today, my friends, is village wide yard sales day. In three different surrounding villages, do you know where I'm going with this, (while my lungs clear up) I'm going to have some fun....

You all have a wonderful weekend,

Mel

Mamma always said:

2009-06-02T16:23:00.000-04:00

Where have the months gone, June 2nd already, holy moley! I have to tell you all that even though it is June we had snow mixed with hail a few days ago, I wanted to cry. Recently, hubby & I went to the local nursery and ended up buying some vegatables for the garden, it has been so cold that we could not plant seeds and it's getting late in the year to have anything produce in time so had to cheat a little and buy plants. They have had to get covered a few nights on count of frost, but we have a good head start now. I'm also trying the garbage can potatoes, keep your fingers crossed with me....

In the chicken coop~
Velma is laying on some eggs, we hope to have a few baby chicks out of the deal, haven't been successful yet, not sure she is a full time sitter or just part time. It is so funny to watch the other hens scooch their way in the brooder box next to her to lay their eggs, only to have this hen claim them. Ugly Barney (ya all remember, he started out with the name of Ugly Betty) well, he is one big boy, seems to be a gentle giant as far as the hens go, that's good.

Talking of gentle giants~
Dunkin our little puppy, well, he's not so little anymore either. We have discovered, he has a closterphobic problem... or something. My plans have been to take him to Obiedience classes and into agility, I'm pulling my hair out, he literally screams and moans when he is in the car, he is in a state of panic; when he was put in the bathtub the other day we had our hands full, he went nuts trying to get away, screaming and moaning on top of it all. I've never encountered this sort of thing before and may be forced to hire someone who can come to our place for some initial training :(

His mother Marley is doing well, she has gained a good amount of weight since getting spayed (she needed the extra weight) looks swell. LOL no pun intended! She loves to play fetch and to drag Dunkin all over the house with the tug toys, they play for hours. I'm not sure, but do think she is calming a little bit when it comes to strangers. Now if she'd just leave our cats alone. Her underground fence training seems to be working beautifully, the neighbors can enjoy their walk knowing she is unable to chaise them down the road any longer.
I love the underground fence, it serves us and our pets very well, Buster our "old" lab loves to chill in the sun, and will lay out there all spread out enjoying every moment. Poor Buzzy, he is starting to get forgetful, and will go to the backdoor to be let in (we rarely use this side door) we know what he wants when we are at the sink window and see him patiently waiting there for someone to come get him. He is such a good boy, I will be lost when his time comes, he is definately one of those dogs that are "one of a kind."

I hear the kitchen calling me to get started with dinner, or is that hubby... LOL

Talk to you all soon,
Mel

A Trip Worth Taking

2009-05-12T11:35:00.000-04:00

Hi All,

I just wanted to share (well, okay, brag) about my Mother's Day . Hubby really does put alot of effort into making things special. He took me all the way to Sackets Harbor (about 50 miles each way) to the Tin Pan Galley. We arrived at about 7:30 AM and got a seat right away. That's on count of getting up at the crack of dawn so we could beat the crowds.

See for yourselves

This is a very popular place, people were lined up down the sidewalk and even inside waiting for a table to share with their Mothers, wives, daughters, grandmothers etc. on that very special day. Below, is a picture of the patio area at Tin Pan Galley, it was really cold here on Mothers day, otherwise this would have been the choice for most to sit. You too can check it out, just go to www.tinpangalley.com may want to wear a bib, the menu is mouth watering.
Sackets Harbor is a quaint little town that sits on Lake Ontario. A short walk down the street, will lead you to the battlefield where the war of 1812 took place in this town, from there, you can see Canada on the opposite side of the lake.

This is a cute little Ice Cream shop directly across the street (to early for them to be open.) After we finished eating, we were so stuffed, we had that feeling of taking a nap, but we still had an hours drive to get back home.
After eating we drove to the nearby marina, (isn't it just beautiful) hubby & I both share a love for sailboats. We actually owned a 22 ft. sailboat and sailed it around to different islands in the Republic Of Panama, during our military tour there. What memories we have gathered over the 25 plus years we've been married...

Hubby, sure does spoil me!

On our way home, hubby said; "lets stop at Sam's Club, to browse." He really shouldn't have, I mean, what did I do to deserve all this? Are you all sitting down, for those that may not be, pull up a chair... He bought me a (are you sitting down now) lap top. Holy Canolli! Yes, an HP Pavilion Notebook, I'm still working on figuring out the difference between the home computer and the lap top, Big Dif, there. I Love you, Honey!!!! XXXOOOO

Ok, what else is new~

The weather has warmed up a tad, and this has gotten me out in the yard. Yesterday, I mowed the lawn (vacant rental also) hung out two loads of wash, drove daughter to Dr appt. then drove out to the sawmill to pick up 13 2x4x6's for my planter boxes. Last night after dinner, Hubby & I worked together; I measured, he cut, and together we screwed the each corner to make the perfect planters boxes.

Know, I don't know about you, but I get alot of ideas and information from magazines. I read an article about placing wet newspaper inside your boxes to kill the grass and prevent weeds from creeping into your garden, sooooo I spent the morning with old newspaper, a roll of masking tape, and a tape measure. I made huge sheets of newspaper, then rolled them up, carried them out and placed a roll in each box then watered it down with my handy dandy watering can.

Now, we just have to add the dirt and veggies...

Rain~Rain Go Away...

2009-05-08T09:13:00.000-04:00

This is the sky as we see it, today. I wanted to hit a few yard sales, but think I'll pass on count of the weather. I love it, when you look at the skies and see these rays, just something magical about them. Our Lord, Jesus Christ comes to mind when these rays are present.

Marley thinks so too... (I just noticed Marley's tongue) LOL

She was out with me this morning as I took a look in one of my small flower beds. Marley, actually got right in front of me while I was going to take a picture, thought she was going to lick the lens. Wish she was that loving to our neighbors who walk often. She has gotten quite ugly since having her pups, I do get nervous about her startling our 92 year old buddy who walks nearly every morning. We really need help from the Dog Whisperer!

I dug these up from one of our rental units, last year, they are doing well (thanks to all the rain we've been getting) and so pretty. I love purple, and have planted these along side of my lilac bush, which I transplanted just a few years back. They have not bloomed yet, we are way to far north, and need a few more weeks to see the lilacs.

Walk with me... Morning Chores

2009-05-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

A little late today, must be the rain but tag along with me as I go out to do my morning chores. Slip on these muckers (boots, guys, boots...) ya all know what to expect, what goes in must come out!

You know, their getting old when... It's 7:00 in the morning and their still roosting. This is Shenae and Roo in thier favorite sleeping spot, waking up to me walking through the barn. Once the doors were opened, out they went to the front porch, then into the mulch which they "love to dig in" all the way to the dirt. Then, they take their bath in the crater they have just created.

Here's Scout who was let out first this morning, (after he got his meds) he is usually last, because, as you can see here he goes to each and everyones food dish looking for leftovers. When the other horses are still in their stalls our Arabian mare will pin her ears back and come at him with teeth exposed (he knows what's coming) and has learned a trick or two of his own.

Come along Scout it's time to go out.

Scout's Mother; Sierra leads the way as she heads up the hill in the misty morning air. She is so beautiful, with that black mane (when she is groomed, of course) yesterday, I wish, I would have had my camera in tow, as I walked Dunkin up the hill, over my left shoulder, Sierra, is laying on the ground eating. I look over and see she has just rolled and above her eyebrow it's lined with mud (looked like makeup) a perfect outline.

Do you see that look, April "thinks" she's made of sugar, I cn hear her saying; "Come on now, really, you don't expect me to go out in this @#%& do ya?) As she did walk out the door, she hung her head so low, It crossed my mind that she would trip over herself, babysteps all the way to the top of the hill.

Give her a round of applause people, she finally made it, and all in one piece. LOL

Now, it's time to tread in the mud ourselves as we head out to the chicken coop. For those of you requiring hats, you may need them now...

Jump back, chickens on the run~ They do not care if it's raining, or not, once the door opens it's a mad dash to get out.

Sorry folks, for some reason my computer is freezing up when I go to add more pictures... Let me give it one more try! Nope, it's not cooperating, Grrr...

There we go~

Once in the yard, they start their search for insects, worms, grubs etc. Look it's rain droplets on the lens of the camera; or is it? Oh, and yes, those are not real deer in the background, however, are decoys. I know, they are there, but when I go out to the chicken coop, these will still spook me.

Next, we have, Spunky the bunny. She is coming over to see what might be in that yellow pail, Corn, You know I don't like corn, give me some spunky O's. This rabbit will so flips for Honey & Oat Cherios (Spunky O's) she will circle you at high rates of speed, grunt and groan, whatever it takes, she wants her Spunky O's...

That completes the barn chores, now I have to go inside and feed the cats, dogs, & yes, the hermit crab.

Hope you have enjoyed your time with me this morning, and look forward to having your company on our farm again soon.

Whinny, Whooph, Meow, Cluck~Cluck, from one country gal to another,

Mel

Everything I should have known about raising a puppy all by myself

2009-05-04T20:57:00.000-04:00

First, let me "Thank all of my devoted friends" for not giving up on my return back to bloggyworld.

As most of you who follow this blog know I ended up with one of Marley's puppies, his name is "Dunkin."

Every morning between 5-6 AM, I hear a little whimpering from the laundryroom downstairs that would be Dunkin saying please come down soon and take me outside. He just turned 10 weeks old on Friday and is doing well with housetraining, learning to sit, and most important the come command. Of course, he has his good days, and his bad ones just like we do. I took him out to play ball with Momma Marley earlier this afternoon, I drew my leg back to give the ball a really hard kick; except missed the ball and kicked the ground forcing my foot backwards (I limped for about 5 minutes or so.) But, didn't notice the extent of it until a little later on when I laid on the couch falling asleep (the phone rang) I got up and oh was it stiff. Later, puppy Dunkin had to go out for a potty break, I was placing broken limbs on the bon fire while Dunkin decides to adventure out into the hayfields (no biggy) until I call Dunkin come and he acts as if there is no one around him for miles, okay, hundreds of miles. I run towards him step in a slick spot of clay soil and stretch that already sore and stiff leg out to its max stretching capacity (muttering and limping back towards home) with Dunkin in tow laying in my arms; like, the happy go lucky little man that he is.

This is a picture of him playing with Sierra our daughters mini Daschund.

This is alot of work guys! Every 15 minutes or so it's time for another potty break (that's if he is not competing with mommy dog on who can drink from the doggy water bucket the longest) then it's every 5 minutes. Weekends are somewhat easier as our granddaughter is home and does take him out from time to time, but weekdays by 3 in the afternoon, I'm ready to crash on the couch for my very own power nap...

The time has come to say good night to all of you, must go see Dunkin off to bed.

Sweet dreams & God Bless,

Mel

The National Tea Party

2009-04-14T08:38:00.000-04:00

This is important to those who want to stand up for our country. Please check out this website http://www.the912project.com/ and find out when and where your Tea Party will be held tomorrow. "We the people" need to let our voices be heard. Stand up for your rights as Americans...
Another website is www.teapartyday.com
God Bless Our Great Nation,
Mel

Good Golly, Miss Molly~ Look who's back

2009-03-23T21:29:00.000-04:00

Hello to all,

It has been a long haul with all these cute little fur balls to attend to. I had them eating mash at 16 days old and it has all paid off, each and everyone of them are healthy, wild and wooly...

Here they are all starting to wake up from their naps, their favorite thing to do is to chew on you with those new needle like teeth, Ouchy they are sharp!

They are all so quick it is impossible to get a group picture. For me, it is difficult to think they are already a month old, and as I think about it, I also get nervous about finding them families that will be patient and loving. Having had to play the motherly role, I have gotten attatched

to these little buggers.

Just when we thought we were getting an early spring, the temperatures have taken a nose dive. It was only 19* here today and with the wind it felt like it was below zero. I went to Wal~Mart a few days ago and bought a few Giant Canna plants, I so, have the fever to get outside and dig in the dirt. Looks like we will be above freezing later in the week, thankfully!

I'm sure the chickens are ready to run, not to mention the horses anxious to ride...

I'm gonna call it a night, as I'm sure to be awake sometime during the night when 8 little pups think its time to get out and play (I usually give them some food as a snack) and they go right back to sleep until about 6:30 or so.

You all have a wonderful night and God Bless,

Mel

Gee Whillickers~ An Award, For Me, Seriously!

2009-03-13T12:59:00.001-04:00

This award is given to those whose blogs are full of sweetness, thoughtfulness, and kindness. :o)The rules are as follows:

1) Put the Berry Sweet Blog Award logo on your blog or post.

2) Nominate 5-10 blogs that show sweetness, thoughtfulness, and kindness.

3) List and link your nominees within your post.

4) Let them know they have received the award by leaving a comment on their blog.

Now comes the difficult part, having to pick from all my favorite people and their awesome blogs. Before I commit myself to this task, I'd like you all to know, "there is not one person on my blogger list," that doesn't fit this awards description. I love you all and feel you all are just as worthy as I am to receive this, however, rules are rules, since I'm the type of person that goes by the book, I must follow the directions of giving it to 5-10 of you.

http://shabbyoldepottingshed.blogspot.com/ Shabby Old Potting Shed

http://quiltedsimple.blogspot.com/ Quilted Simple

http://picketsplace.blogspot.com/ Pickets Place

http://frakerfarm.blogspot.com/ Fraker Farm

http://therusticcottage.blogspot.com/ The Rustic Cottage

http://riverbendfarm.blogspot.com/ River Bend Farm

Marley's Puppies at 3 Weeks Old

2009-03-12T08:49:00.000-04:00

For those of you that want to follow along with Our lives with Marley (plus 8 pups) come on over to my other blog. http://ourmarley.blogspot.com/

Sleep Deprivation

2009-03-05T08:15:00.000-05:00

How ironic, that a dog who started out being afraid of mankind now requires your company inside the box or sitting on the floor outside the box. Marley, has to be reminded to feed her puppies every 3 to 4 hours during the daylight hours, at night she can get away with every 5 hours (which allows me getting up only once) coming to my side of the bed, she sniffs me until I'm awake and up.

I have to be suffering from sleep deprivation, I had mentioned to hubby this morning that I was thinking of keeping one of the male pups. As though, we don't have enough pets here on our hobby farm. These thoughts can come from the lack of sleep, can't they?

I have done alot of reading about retrievers and how they are all around great family members. These dogs are very brilliant, easy to teach, and eager to please their masters ( as we have figured out with Marley) they will carry your shoes to you, rather you need them or not, well, at least one shoe... They prefer to be right at your side at all times (can be a near death experience) while preparing meals in your kitchen; carrying hot steaming pans to your sink, only to back up and trip over the dog laying at your feet. Marley is unhappy if we go to the barn without her, to be absolutely sure, she is not left behind, she is to your left side (wagging that tail) showing you she is pleased with your decision of letting her tag along. Many times, she is so close that while I'm getting my barn clothes on, I will bump into her trying to place my leg into my coveralls.

As a matter of fact, Marley is pacing the floors waiting to go out to the barn, she has chosen the right place!

Welcome To Puppyland ~ Eight Is Enough

2009-02-26T20:19:00.001-05:00

It has been a week since Marley has had her puppies. She is getting better with feedings and the puppies are starting to show it, they are all starting to look like little hairy piglets. It is so cute watching them crawl around and cuter yet, is them wagging their little tails. Do you ever wonder, what these guys could actually be dreaming about at only a week old, while they are sleeping you can tell they are dreaming as their little ears are flapping in all directions, they whimper and sometimes will jerk, just as we humans do when we fall off to sleep.

Here's all eight of them, It is unreal how strong these little buggers are, at feeding time they all scramble over to mommy yipping, and trying out their new voices. A few of them take it even further and scream rather then whimper or whine. Wonder, how they know when mom is in the box if they are blind and deaf for the first 2 weeks, they must be able to smell her as it is apparent that they do know.

As we prepare these little cutties for the future, today, I had a brain storm and thought about maybe donating them to the Guide Dog Association to assist blind folks. Or even, a Search and Rescue Organization, we would like nothing more than to know these highly intellegent animals were going to wonderful homes. They are retreiver mixes, and if I can, I'll try to get a picture of the father who is also a retreiver mix. He is golden in color just like Marley but has longer hair and markings of white.

Perhaps one of you would be interested in having a K-9 friend around your home...

What A Difference A Day Makes

2009-02-24T21:04:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends,
I'm digging my way out of the deep rut I've been in for the past few days. Marley our orphaned dog has had babies (8 of them to be exact) born to us on February 20th. It would turn out that Marley didn't know what to do with all these new whimpering ad whining little fuzz balls. For three days she refused to lay down and feed them, unless we forced her to lay with them, and we sat in the box with her while doing so. Nights have been most difficult as you could hear her jump in the box, the pups would go bananas whimpering and screaming and poor Marley would jump back out of her box and crawl under the bed. Marley soon figured out this wasn't working, no matter where she hid she could still hear her puppies cries throughout the house. She became agitated and started to dig at the carpet on the floor, then walk over to the box look in at her helpless babies and cry back at them. I phoned the Vet, at first she thought maybe it was a lack of calcium give her some Tums 2 x a day for a week. When it didn't stop she ruled out the calcium problem and wished me well, hoping, things would get better by the end of the week. At this point, I am now suffering sleep deprivation, and flustered myself wondering if the puppies were getting the nutrition they needed to help them through all this. I phoned another Vet, for a second opinion, this time asking where the box was located; okay fine, sounds like Marley is torn between your attention and the babies, try sitting in the box with her until she has fed the babies and they crawl off and go to sleep. Try this several times a day until she knows you are there. Bingo, it worked like a charm! Marley is now feeding the puppies wonderfully, and I am receiving my most needed sleep. I do not function well if I don't get at least 7 hours a night, so the last three nights have been awful. Thankfully, things have turned around and I was able to sleep at least 6 hours last night, waking up this morning and feeling fine... I will try to get a few pictures posted in the next few days, because, I know you're all gonna want a retreiver puppy just like Marley.

Good Night

Wrapped Up In Family Searching

2009-02-17T08:06:00.000-05:00

Hi Guys,

I have been glued to this computer for days now. My father passed away suddenly, two years ago on Thanksgiving Day, since my parents were divorced and we saw very little of my father we never knew that side of our being. I have a huge interest in figuring out our ancestry and have been working at finding out who we are and where did we hail from. My step-brother sent me a few newspaper articles, God bless him (which helped out a great deal) for the last few weeks I have been working at our family tree. This is so exciting! I know, in my heart, that my Father would be proud... I will put a book together for my children so that when we pass on they can continue to add to our heritage. Cool Stuff!

To all my blogging Valentines

2009-02-15T14:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentines Day

It's My 100th Post!

2009-02-13T08:37:00.001-05:00

Wow, I can hardly believe, I wrote that many posts!

I'm celebrating today by giving you all a present I found on Arm & Hammers website. ( I once again, changed it a tad)

It is truely a budget saver, and works great!

Powdered Laundry Detergent

1 Cup grated Ivory soap
1/2 Cup Arm & Hammer washing soda (not baking soda)
this can be found in the laundry soap isle
1/2 Cup Borax

Mix and store in an airtight container. Small loads use 1 TBLS. Medium loads use 2 TBLS. Large loads 3 TBLS.

To make a large load for those of you who do lots of laundry you may want to use this method.

5 Cups of grated Ivory soap
3 Cups Arm & Hammer washing soda
3 cups Borax

I have said this before & will say this again; "We The People" need to work together, reach out and help thy neighbor/s in any way we can. With the rising prices at the grocery store, I'm looking for ways to put a little cash aside, this laundry detergent is really just one way to "save more spend less" as Clark Howard would put it! Also, I clip coupons, and watch for sales, sometimes, with a coupon, an item ends up costing cents rather than dollars.

Happy Laundry Day from our house to yours!