Fabulous Since 1961

2012-01-28T10:16:00.000-05:00

Kind of Like a Roller Coaster.

I knew from the beginning that short selling our house wouldn't be easy, but I didn't think it would be such an emotional up and down ride. Finding a buyer was easy. The third couple who saw the house made a full price offer. Our realtor said the process should take just 5 weeks, making the second week in December our last week in the house. Panic! Then the mortgage company wanted more info, and when our realtor came to see us the first week in January, he said we should be looking at moving in 3 weeks. More panic. Then the mortgage company asked for more information and said they wanted $20,000 from us and they would approve the sale. Hello! If we had that kind of money we wouldn't be short selling! Our realtor negotiated them down to $3500...still not doable for us. So Friday Brewier wrote them a letter offering $1750, and if that wasn't aceptable, we would just stay in the house and deal with foreclosure.
The absurdity of all this is that, if we didn't already have a buyer, the mortgage company would be giving us $3000 in relocation help. It seems to me that they are wanting us to forclose.... so weird.
Today Brewier, Megan and I are working in the garage, sorting things out for the estate sale next weekend and packing the things we are going to take.... if this sale actually goes through.
Next step - find a place to live.

2012-01-24T14:43:00.000-05:00

February 4th

Thats the day of our estate sale. I'll be so happy to have it over with because I am overwhelmed with the amount of stuff I have. Brewier and I are treasure hunters when we are at garage sales, and I have tremendous amount of really great stuff, but I am ready to pass those treasures on.
I think I've said all that before...oh well, my brain is mush right now, and what I'd really like to do is sit in front of the television and zone out. May be with a cup of tea...or glass of Prosecco. Instead, I will carry on with my sorting and packing.

2012-01-23T20:35:00.000-05:00

Another Day, Another Bajillion Boxes.

Darlene came over this morning to help me organize this mess of packing and sorting. We took apart the guest bed and that room is now being used to hold things we are taking with us. The lanai and garage are holding our estate sale items. The rest of the house is strewn with half packed boxes and Olivers toys. It feels strange living in a house that no longer feels like home.

2012-01-22T21:04:00.001-05:00

She Was So Excited.

I let her have a tube of blush, (Organic, fruit based, safe,) so she could put on makeup before our Starbucks date.

I spent today packing, and going through stacks of vintage linens, deciding what to keep and what to sell. I'm selling just about everything. Same with my china, jewelry and vintage clothing. I'm working on decreasing my belongings by 1/2. Whew...its a lot of work.
I'm keeping my furs.

2012-01-21T21:11:00.002-05:00

This is How I Roll.

Yes, another post recapping the week in pictures.
It was really cold last Saturday morning when Brewier and I went out to garage sales, so I wore my only winter coat. My belief is that if you own fur, wear it every chance you get.

In contrast to that, this is me having morning coffee with Renee, on one of our pajama mondays. And yes, those are brownies we were eating for breakfast.

The state of my house right now.

Hot Dog heaven french fries for dinner Wednesday night,

Followed by cupckes from Rhapsodic Bakery.

Megan scored a box of gluten free day old cupcakes for $13!

Friday Oliver turned ONE! We celebrated by letting him watch us drink coffee at Starbucks.

Today, (which is Brewiers birthday!) we had a little party for Oliver, in the back yard.

His cake was vegan and gluten free. After 3 bites he hit his sugar high and ran around like crazy.

He' is sleeping now, and we are all watching Betty White's 90th birthday tribute.
I should be packing.

2012-01-18T08:48:00.002-05:00

Today I'm Supporting Free Speech.

If you are visiting my blog, you should too.
Check it out HERE

2012-01-16T06:46:00.000-05:00

Sunday Afternoon.

2012-01-14T21:16:00.001-05:00

Meyer Lemons

I have a beautiful Meyer lemon tree in my back yard that produces hundreds of huge, (orange-grapefruit sized,) lemons every year, and every year I say I'm going to make all kinds of tasty treats with them but I never do, because I'm so overweight from eating Christmas cookies. Knowing this is the last time I'll have lemons like this, I decided to start making all those goodies I have craved for so long. Today I made lemon curd, and lemon shortbread cookies, which are delicious by themselves, or smothered in the curd....and don't you think curd is kind of a gross word, especially for something so delicious?

I don't have pictures of any of these things, nor do I have pictures of Darlene and I sitting across from each other, both of us on our computers, or of Mark and Brewier sitting on the edge of their chairs watching Tim Tebow. Just picture in your head a really lovely day, and you've got it.

2012-01-13T08:41:00.000-05:00

Well That Didn't Last Long.

So much for blogging everyday this year.
Monday morning I met Jessica in Lakeland, to pick up Addison. We thought it would be a good idea for her to see me packing up my house to mentally get used to the idea of me moving. She loves my home and tells me so every time we're together and we didn't want it to be traumatic for her when I no longer lived here.
I think she rather enjoyed the topsy turvy house. She spent a good bit of time snuggled into this sofa with Olivers Nook.

Tuesday morning we started the day off at Starbucks.

Followed by a shopping trip where she fell in love with this dress. She put it on and started spinning in circles singing, "Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous!" She said she looked like a princess, and I was all set to buy her the dress, but she found a different one she liked even more, (which sadly I didn't take a picture of,) that was a bit more adult, so I bought that for her.

Sarah came over after work to have dinner with us and spend the night. Addison was one happy girl.

Oliver loved having Addison here and would hug and kiss her every chance he got. All her big sister skills were evident as she helped out and played with Oliver.

Addison is home now, so packing and trying to find a new home resumes. Brewier has looked at a couple of houses in the Tampa area, but everything seems to have carpet and/or mold. There don't seem to be very many rentals either, I'm sure its because of the demand for them now that so many people have had to forclose on their own homes.

2012-01-08T18:02:00.001-05:00

Escape.
Overwhelmed by the thought of moving, I asked Brewier if he wanted to go walk around Winter Park this morning. Probably not the best thing to do because it made me realize how much I will miss my little city. Walking along Park Ave, Brewier spotted this shop sign. Not really the the best name or pose. De-lice...really?

Something you don't normally see on Park Ave.

Sparkly top, nude tights, (tights are not pants!) and she kept standing around waiting for, ~~her pimp,~~ ride. I saw an SUV limo go by, and then she was gone, so all of this is speculation on my part.

We walked around Casa Feliz. This historic house used to be located across the street from where it sits now. My almost step sister and her husband bought it and started tearing it down to build a McMansion. The city stopped them and relocated the house.

My afternoon was spent looking for a place to rent...it would be helpful if we knew where we wanted to live. So far these are my top 3 finds.

This one is in Wesley Chapel, close to Jessica.

This is in Sanford, which would make Sarah extremely happy.

And finally, this last one is about 5 miles from here and very close to our old home. (I love the features this one has!)

I also spent a great deal of itme looking at homes in the San Diego Ca area. Dream on.

2012-01-07T19:32:00.000-05:00

Our New Home.

Our realtor was here so we could sign some papers this morning, and he once again stressed that we needed to pack. Then he asked where we were moving to. I wish I had an answer.
Renee called with the same question, once she saw on Facebook that we had a three week dead line. I told her we have no idea where we will live, and she said not to worry, that David had built us a little house in their back yard.

It's quite cozy and with a little mosquito netting it should work out just fine.....until it rains.

2012-01-06T18:51:00.003-05:00

Did I Say 5 Weeks?
Because I talked to our realtor today and he told me its more like three weeks! I need to have a garage sale and pack, pronto. In response to this somewhat stressful news I did what I always do, I baked. A delicious apple pie.

And I ate 1/4 of it hot out of the oven.

2012-01-05T20:33:00.002-05:00

Five Weeks?!!

We got an email from our realtor today saying if everything continues moving along with the sale of our house, we should be prepared to move in 5 weeks. My stomach is doing somersaults.
Megan has been back to her soup making ways, and I couldn't be happier. This was breakfast...I had it for lunch too.

It was gorgeous here today so we took Oliver to the park to play. He had a fantastic time.

Climbing

Sliding

My baby had fun playing too.

I spent the afternoon wiring frames for Megan, fueled by Starbucks.

This evening we hung some of her work at Rhapsodic Bakery. It will be there for the month of January. We may have brought a box of cupcakes home with us......
Don't you love the cotton ball snow? Or as Oliver refers to them, appetizers.

I was contemplating why my kitchen counter always looks like this lately, as it is very unlike me.

Then I realized everything gets dumped there because it is the only place this little guy can't reach.

2012-01-04T06:42:00.000-05:00

Random Fact Wednesday.

Lately at night if I wake up and can't go back to sleep, I practice raising one eyebrow, a talent Megan was born with, and I've always desired. Because it's dark and I'm laying in bed, I never know if I'm actually accomplishing anything so today as I was in front of the mirror putting on makeup I tried lifting one brow. My brow stayed immobile but my under eyelid scrunched up considerably and I looked rather menacing. It would also explain why the wrinkles under my right eye have become so pronounced. I'm pretty sure the only way I will ever gain Megans talent is to botox all my face except one eyebrow.

Fact #2
I adore Prosecco.
This is the prosecco shrine I have set up in my bathroom.

No, it's not aways there. Sarah and I just thought it would be pretty to get a picture of the bottles with the light shining through.
Last week I was cleaning out a few small kitchen drawers. The ones that hold such things as corkscrews, salt dishes tiny teaspoons, and the corks from bottles of wine I open.

There are 30 prosecco corks there!....but then I do share this wonderful wine with anyone who stops by.
In the back of one of the drawers were a few shark teeth. Everyone has those stashed away somewhere in there kitchen, don't they?

2012-01-03T06:35:00.018-05:00

A Stylish New Year.

I want to work on getting my style back this year; it has faded as my weight and age have increased.
I came across the blog, Advanced Style, a couple of weeks ago, and thoroughly enjoy and am inspired by it. Rita, the woman featured on the linked post is fabulous, and is wearing the kinds of things I wore in my 20's and 30's, and would like to wear again.

This is the picture, (found on Pinterest,) that led me to the Advanced Style blog. I love and relate to the emotion on this woman's beautiful face, as she hugs her handbag.

photo taken from Advanced Style blog

2012-01-02T18:31:00.001-05:00

Starting the New Year Right.

Yesterday we lounged around the house until 4pm, with John, Sarah and Ethan. Then after they left, we put on Pj's and lounged some more. I found this picture from New Years Eve. I wish I could remember what was so funny.

This afternoon Brewier took me to the beach to escape the pollen. I knew it would be chilly since it was only 65 out, but once we got down to the water there was a breeze, and we were freezing!

(Me and the uni bomber.)

Tourists.

I saw the secret bat signal in the sand

But then realized it was just this birds feet.

My happy, (cold,) feet.

2012-01-01T17:58:00.000-05:00

Happy 2012!

(And Happy 72nd birthday to my mom.)

We had a great time welcoming in the new year with our dear friends, the Nix's and the Skee's. I put Sarah in charge of decor and she made the family room look beautiful, pulling in our sofa from the living room, and putting up the lights from my birthday party.

The table on the lanai ended up being the perfect spot for Eva and Ethan.

On the menu was a fajita feast, with chocolate chip cookies for dessert.

We were all on our phones and laptops throughout the night.

Why yes, that is my debonair husband.

The lovely Sarah.

I showed the kids how to pile confetti on the fan blades.

The turn on the fan and have it snow down.

(Ethan was being so goofy!)

So this was the first half of the party. I haven't download the pics from later in the evening or from this morning. Have to save something for tomorrow, right?

2011-12-31T12:56:00.002-05:00

Party On.

2011-12-30T06:39:00.000-05:00

I Feel So Fancy.

Because I have a painted portrait on myself.

My dear friend VIckie, painted this and gave it to me for my birthday! She did a watercolor for Megan and Oliver. How gorgeous is this?

I love original art!

2011-12-29T06:23:00.000-05:00

Want to Be Friends?.

I've noticed for the past couple of months that there has been a lot of hits on my archives, and when I see that, I go back and read that archived month. You know, I used to be much more interesting and funny. Now I just throw a few pictures up once a week and call it a post. I'd like to get back to real blogging, but it's so much easier to do an update on FB. You can friend me at Tricia Pflug Welch, and then you'll never miss a moment of my exciting life. Just let me know you're a blog reader.
Dare I even mention that I want to once again try blogging everyday. I'm counting on Oliver to be very funny and provide lots of things to write about. No pressure dude.

2011-12-28T09:05:00.000-05:00

I Guess I Should Do a Christmas Post.

But first let me say, turning 50...not so bad.

We celebrated Christmas with Jessica, on my birthday. The best part for me was Addison being more happy and excited over giving gifts to everyone, than getting her own gifts.

I want you to look at Kates feet. The girl loves shoes and is always wearing a pair of Jessicas sandals or heels.

My gift from Addison; a sparkly pink princess wand. Jessica said as soon as Addison saw it at Target, she knew it was the perfet gift for me.

The boys hanging out at the kitchen. I love how well they play together.

Christmas morning Oliver woke up with a nearly 104 temperature, so we had a very quiet day at home.

Our live tree was set up on the lanai, so Megan put up her little tree from when she was a kid, for us to put our gifts around.

Brewier and Oliver enjoying a crackling fire on the tv.

Oliver got a Nook for Christmas.

But his favorite gift was Brewier's old wallet.

Late in the afternoon we went over to visit Renee and David, (A Christmas tradition,) and had tea and left over cake, poolside. A perfect ending to the day.

2011-12-25T06:46:00.001-05:00

2011-12-22T09:28:00.003-05:00

I'm Pleading the Fifth.

I have sparkly red toes for Christmas. I'm sick and can't breathe. I'm sure the two are not connected.

2011-12-19T20:11:00.000-05:00

What a Surprise!

It all adds up now. The Facebook messages, the hushed phone calls, Megan's strange behavior. For the past month Brewier, Jessica and Megan have been working on a surprise party for me! Saturday night Brewier told me to get dressed up and we'd go down to Park Avenue and look at lights. I put on my new dress and leopard shoes, and just as we were about to leave, Renee called to see if we wanted to stop by for Christmas cookies. Never one to turn down a visit with a friend, I said, "Sure!"
When I arrived Olivia escorted me to the back patio, which had been transformed to look like my, "party," pinterest board, and was full of my closest friends. Megans first words to me were, "Mom. I have lied so much to you this past week." :)

Brewier scanned old photos, and Megan made this collage from them.

David and Renees lanai, transformed in to this:

Blowing out the candles, after a very upbeat, "Happy Birthday," song, led by Brewier.

Jessica bought the December issue of Vogue, to use as a guest book. Brilliant!!

David signing the guest book

Vickie, Addison and myself.

Sarah, checking out my furry handbag.

It was a FABULOUS party...I have the sweetest family and friends.

2011-12-13T11:22:00.001-05:00

Its a Different Kind of Christmas.

I haven't crafted anything. I haven't made cookies. I haven't bought gifts, (except the grandchildren.) My head is still reeling about having to move. I saw my realtor at a party Friday night and he asked if I had started packing yet. Nope. Finding a new place to live is proving to be a challenge, prayer would be appreciated.
What have I been doing you ask? Shopping. Visiting Jessica in Tampa. Playing with Oliver. Going out to public places. Yes, I have had some major improvements in my health. I think having Oliver here has been a huge part of that. I feel like I have a purpose and something to do...I'm happy. I'm also seeing new chiropractor who practices, "Network Care." It involves breathing exercises and visualization as well as a very different kind of chiropractic care. All I know is that I've been able to do so much more than I was 6 months ago.

2011-12-12T21:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday To Me, Part 2

I went shopping with Jessica. Flats that actually fit and look good on me. Its a Christmas miracle.

2011-12-11T17:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to Me.

Albeit a little early.
This is what happens when I go out looking to buy a pair of flats and a pair of boots; neither of which I have ever owned.

2011-12-09T21:30:00.000-05:00

Creepy.

La la la la la, walking down New England in Winter Park...look at that pretty storefront

wait...what is that on top of the building?

Gargoyles?

Creepy demonic gargoyles. I don't get it.

2011-12-09T06:54:00.003-05:00

Megan and I went to Art on Tap last Sunday, mostly to see the wonderful Dawn Schreiner and her paintings. All her work is done on recycled materials, and is fabulous. Here is the artist wearing her Harry Potter painting, t-shirt.

Some of Dawns paintings and prints, held in an old bathtub filled with painted leaves and seed pods.

But my favorite thing, because it is so clever and made me laugh, her nun nuts.

With the devil amongst them.

To see more of her work head over to Megans blog.

2011-12-04T08:42:00.002-05:00

Christmas Tour of Homes.

My mom and I first started going to these in the late 80's. They were always such fun and put us in the Christmas decorating spirit. We stopped attending about 10 years ago because they became rather disappointing. People didn't really have their homes decorated, just a tree up; or they were just using the tour to promote their business, (mostly artists showcasing their art.)
Yesterday we decided to give the tour another go. The first house was done beautifully, with a cowboy theme, (the owners of the home were from Texas and Oklahoma.)

The next house was just a, "porch stop." We were a bit disappointed because we had toured the inside of the home before, and it is beautiful. We were talking to the home owner about the last time we toured his home; we had gone into the guest room and the rugs in there used to be mine! I had had them in a consignment shop and apparently his wife had bought them. The owner remembered us from 15 years ago because of that!

This home had been beautifully remodeled inside and was for sale.

After that, the rest of the tour went down hill. One house was unoccupied and in the midst of renovation. Another was an artist who was showcasing her art work, and some of the people who had their homes opened didn't really seem to be enjoying being on the tour or having people in their homes. This house wasn't on the tour, but I thought it was so pretty. You can see the homeowner on her computer, through the front window.

I loved the snowflakes and stars, hanging form the ceiling of this little porch.

While the tour was not what we expected, it was really lovely having a day together with my mom!

2011-11-27T14:25:00.000-05:00

I've Got the Black Lung Pop.

(Derek Zoolander)
Brewier has been sick going on three weeks, Megan two, and I've been sick a week. As always, everything heads straight for my chest. I'm so thankful to have an excellent Dr. and a friend with awesome homeopathy skills to see me through this.
We've been having absolutely gorgeous weather, and all my windows are open, (long holiday weekend = no pesticide spraying.) Normally I'd have all the Christmas decorations out of the attic, holiday-fying my house, but instead am spending hours looking at Christmas decor on Pinterest. As I think about decorating for our last holiday here, I'm getting very sad about leaving my home. I love my neighborhood and my house and not knowing where will will go or live is unsettling.
Today at 4pm is a free concert in Central Park that Megan and I had hoped to go to, (and blog about,) but instead I think we will lay in my bed, in a diabetic coma from watching hour upon hour of Hallmark and Lifetime Christmas movies.

Welcome to my Christmas Dream.

Please come in for a visit

Have a seat in my lovely, kleenex free, living room

and admire my snowflake curtain

while enjoying this festive snack.

2011-11-26T11:17:00.000-05:00

I Finally Have an Answer.

I loathe the question, "So what do you do?" When I was a stay at home mom,home educating her kids and told people, (especially women,) what I did, they quite literally would look at me and then turn their back to me to talk to someone else....but at least I had an answer then. When asked now what I do, I'm kind of at a loss. What do I do that seems to keep me busy?
Well now I have an answer.

2011-11-26T04:59:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving.

The day was very low key. For the last 15 years we've spent the day at Mark and Darlenes, but they went out of town, so it was just Brewier, Megan, Oliver and I. Megan had planned out and shopped for the meal earlier in the week which was good since we were both sick. Megan did most all of the cooking; I made the cranberry sauce, (2 cups of fresh cranberries, 1/2 and orange, 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of Makers Mark, all thrown together in the food processor,) the broccoli salad, sweet potato casserole, and the table setting.
The day started with blogs, the Macy's parade, and pumpkin pie oatmeal, bacon and coffee.

Of course, photos had to be taken before eating.

This was Oliver's first Thanksgiving and he had his turkey and sweet potatoes well blended.

A note on out meal. It was all organic fresh ingredients and made from scratch, as most of our meals are. Megan made a green bean casserole from fresh beans onions and mushrooms that was delicious, and I don't normally touch green bean casserole. The one processed food we had was Stove Top stuffing, and I'm embarrassed to say it was my favorite part of the meal.

2011-11-23T01:23:00.000-05:00

No pictures...though I'm sure there are some on the camera. The past week has been filled with caring for a sick baby and daughter. I thought Oliver was getting better, but he seems to have picked up the nasty virus Brewier brought home last week. (As have Megan and I.) Poor little Oliver is very congested and can't breathe, and has been on a nursing strike nearly three days now. Megan had been pumping and giving him milk through a straw, but her supply is starting to dry up now. Prayers for this little guy and sick family would be appreciated.

2011-11-17T22:31:00.000-05:00

If I Ever Got a Tat.

I think this is beautiful.

2011-11-15T20:22:00.001-05:00

Too Lazy for Words.

The past week in photos.

Mom and I having coffee at McDonalds.

A visit from Vickie and Corey.

Getting our geek on with a pop up Star Wars book.

Pushing my girls on the swings.

Blue Bird Bakeshop

Cousins playing in the back yard.

Jesica and Megan with their dollar spot, Rudolph activity books.

Why didn't they do this growing up?

Oliver accidentally hit Clay with a toy. Clay burst into tears causing Oliver to cry. Instead of comforting them we all burst out laughing and grabbed our cameras.

2011-11-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

Break Dancing Yoga

Break ton Neck from Alex Yde on Vimeo.

2011-11-11T13:30:00.001-05:00

I'm in Love With These Puppets.

2011-11-08T11:04:00.000-05:00

We are Fabulous.

Like two peas in a pod. This is Addison, at an air show last weekend.

(photo by Mike Mayo.)

2011-11-05T21:37:00.000-04:00

Garage Sale Find of the Year.

130 brand new wooden hangers for $13.....and a Banana Republic dress for $4. But I'm really jazzed about the hangers.

2011-11-03T17:12:00.002-04:00

Pressure.
(David Bowie)
Our house is under contract...there is a home inspection tomorrow. I still haven't a clue as to where we will be living once it sells and I continue to wonder if we are doing the right thing. Brewier started a new interim job this week in Brandon and is home just on the weekends so all our paper work is being done by email and fax.
I had a suspicious patch of skin removed and biopsied last week. The Dr. said more than once that I was very lucky I came in when I did as it was pre-malignant.
I've started seeing a new Dr. He is a chiropractor but practices a form of medicine called Network Care. I have no curve to the spine in my neck and it looked like it was starting to fuse. All I knew is that I couldn't move my head, (I've had lots of neck injuries starting when I was young and in gymnastics.) and after one visit I could move it again. Brewier watched my right leg go from 1 inch shorter than the left, to a little bit longer than it. The Dr. said he should also be able to help me with my chemical sensitivities and my digestive disorders.
I'm handling this stress like any other woman. I'm eating everything...chips, french fries, chocolate, pumpkin bread, cookies ....I'm beginning to think my new wardrobe will need to include elastic waist pants and mumu's.

2011-11-02T06:33:00.001-04:00

These Boots Are Made For Walking.
(Nancy Sinatra)

I was 4 or 5 when that song was popular and desperately wanted a pair of boots; white patent leather go-go boots to be exact.
Kate received a pair of boots that had belonged to the daughter of one of Jessicas friends, and she was so excited to be able to wear them to church Sunday. She knew she looked fabulous.

I asked her to pose and she did about 30 seconds of model poses. Where did she learn that??

2011-11-01T11:25:00.002-04:00

They Say Its Your Birthday!

(The Beatles.)

Well...its not my birthday until December, but Megan surprised me with an early birthday present.

I had seen this hat in a shop on Park Ave while I was out with Vickie on Friday. Loved the hat, not the price tag.
When I arrived home from Tampa, this was on my bed.

Of course I opened the present before reading the card. When I saw the hat, I turned to Megan to say you shouldn't have spent so much money, but before any words could leave my mouth she said, "Have you read the card? Don't say anything until you read the card."

How well she knows me. The bottom part that I cut off says that she has the receipt in case I've changed my mind about the hat. Fat chance.

Here is the back of her card. I love homemade cards....and birthday presents.

2011-10-31T21:58:00.000-04:00

Sunday School Picnic.

Saturday Brewier and I drove over to Tampa to attend their Sunday School picnic. The kids loved having us there and I loved being able to be out among like minded people. The food wasn't too bad either...actually it was some of the best food I've had.

When Addison saw me take a picture of my plate, she asked if I would take one of her food.

The girl loves her carbs, (and ended up eating all the chips on my plate.)

A rare photo of Kate, who decided to be part of someone elses family for the day.

For as slim as Clay is, the boy can eat!

2011-10-31T15:33:00.000-04:00

Could They Be Any More Perfect?

(Chandler Bing.)

I saw these while walking Park ave with Vickie. I resisted their siren song, because, really...where would I wear them? But aren't they just perfect?

2011-10-29T22:45:00.000-04:00

Help!
(The Beatles)

As my fiftieth birthday rapidly approaches, I'm finding it hard to buy clothes and makeup. I need a makeover. Styles that once looked good on me no longer flatter my changing figure, and my beloved cat eye eyeliner, while in fashion, makes me look like a scary old lady.
I don't want people staring and talking behind my back like they did with this girl that Vickie and I saw on Park Ave.

Wearing ones undies in public is never ok.

2011-10-25T07:06:00.003-04:00

More on Restoration Hardware.

Read Elizabeths' comment on my previous post for a very interesting back story to Restoration Hardware. (Elizabeth did window displays and her husband was employee #6 at the original R.H.)

2011-10-24T20:34:00.000-04:00

I'll Have a Blue Christmas.

(Elvis)
Or in the case of Restoration Hardware, a grey Christmas. I'm really disappointed in the direction the store has taken; from warm and cozy to cold and pretentious. I must not be the only one who feels this way because the store is always empty. What do you think of their new look and direction?

2011-10-23T16:44:00.001-04:00

My Fabulous Fall Weekend.
The past three days have been absolutely gorgeous, and as close to fall like as we can ask for. Because I was in KY for the first day of fall, I didn't get my traditional molasses cookies made. I was made even more aware of this when I received a text saying that my friend Eva was sick and she was certain the only thing that could make her feel better was one of my cookies, so Friday she came over and we made these cookies together.

And because we were having so much fun together, we also made popcorn balls. (You can read more about that on my craft blog.)

Megan and I walked Park Ave, and I saw this Pottery Barn display that would be perfect for Jessicas home and her high ceilings.
How much fun would that be to decorate every season?

Megan reading a menu, searching for gluten free, vegan options. Oliver was so happy to be out and about. He is very social.

Not vegan or gluten free.

Saturday was Vegfest, an annual gathering of vegetarian and vegan vendors. This was my meal from Loving Hut.

It looks more flavorful than it was. Megan and I are awesome cooks and are usually disappointed by restaurant food.

There were a bajillion dogs at the fest, much to my disdain. Its not that I dislike dogs so much as I do the owners who let them jump on me and let them poop next to me while I'm standing in line to get my lunch. This guy had his rabbit on a leash. We later saw him with his bunny on Park Ave.

The barn owl was pretty cool and made me think I'd like to dress Oliver up as an owl for halloween.

To keep the kids entertained, there was an area where a kid could get a box and decorate it to add on to the castle. What a great idea!

Brewier, entertaining the thought of becoming a vegan...or not.

2011-10-22T13:00:00.000-04:00

Things are Different Here.

We've had a wonderful drop in temperature here the past few days, with the highs reaching the low to mid 70's. While most people still consider that summer like weather, us Floridians break out our winter apparel.

Last night Megan and I took Oliver out for a stroll on Park Ave. We were were bundled up in jeans, long sleeve shirts, jackets and scarves. Meg called time and temp to see just how cold it was.

71 degrees.

2011-10-22T06:34:00.002-04:00

Lets Hear It For The Boy(s).

(Denice Williams)

These two had a grand time together during our visit to Jessicas house. Oliver doesn't get any interaction with kids, so getting to be with his cousin was a big treat.
On our way to Starbucks.

Making lunch for us girls.

Getting into trouble together by playing with power cords and remotes.

2011-10-18T07:41:00.000-04:00

My Favorite Gas Station.

Everyone has one, don't they?
This is where I get an icy cold Coke when I go to New Smyrna Beach. There is fresh produce in all the drink coolers and in bins around the station.

2011-10-17T19:41:00.000-04:00

Crazy.

(Patsy Cline.)

That's how it's been since we got back from Ky. We've been shuttling between my house and Darlenes, where I seek refuge when Orange County sprays the neighborhood... or the golf course sprays....or the park...or the Cady Way trail. Yeah, lots of spraying, but no bugs. I'd rather have bugs.
Our house has an offer on it. I didn't expect that to happen so fast. To think we could possibly be moving in 3 months has my stomach doing somersaults. I have no idea where I will live.I keep thinking I'd like to sell off all my possessions and head for CA, I've always wanted to go.
Brewiers car died while he was in Panama City, so today I bought a used Honda Accord.
Oliver is a real speed crawler and has started walking a bit, meaning a lot of my time is spent keeping an eye on him, (and nibbling his sweet neck.)
Friday night Meg and I went to the unveiling of a mural she was in, painted by Tom Thorspecken. Oliver was very excited about seeing himself and kept patting his portrait.

Saturday night we had the most beautiful sunset. Everyone on Facebook was posting pics of it.

And because I love sky photos, I give you the sunrise on the morning we left KY.

2011-10-14T17:04:00.000-04:00

The Goods.

Yesterday was our first official day on the market and we had two showings....and one of those showings resulted in someone very interested in buying the house. It kills me to short sale and lose So. Much. Money.
I haven't the slightest idea of where we will live, or how we will live because short selling your house destroys your credit, and I'm a nearly 50 year old woman without work experience. What I do know is that I need to sell off a great deal of my belongings and before I put them out in a garage sale for the public, I'd like to have a private sale for my friends...I have really cool stuff.
So, next Friday Anyone who wants to drop by and shop is welcome to do so. If for some reason Friday doesn't work for you, drop me an email and I can set up another time for you. You can also email me if you can come Friday, you know, so I have something to look forward to.

2011-10-10T21:24:00.000-04:00

The 411.

We put our house on the market today; there is a realtors lock box on my door.
We have no idea where we will live if/when our house sells; but Orlando literally makes me sick.
I have 30+ years of vintage treasures and instead of having a garage sale, and putting things on Etsy, I'm going to contact professionals and see about having an estate sale.
Brewier is still without a car and having is having to use a rental to drive back and forth between here and Panama City. $$$ Thankfully, that job ends in two weeks...but then he is jobless.
Currently, I'm living at Darlenes. The air in her neighborhood isn't quite as bad as mine and I breathe a bit better. Living in other peoples houses has made me realize how little I need in the way of possessions. It has also made me realize what wonderful and gracious friends and family I have.

2011-10-08T14:18:00.000-04:00

Sick.

Less than an hour after being home I started having trouble breathing. I now lungs that feel full of concrete. Yuck.

2011-10-04T20:02:00.001-04:00

Smash the Mirror.

(The Who)

Yet another fabulous find at Goodwill. My mom is such a good sport trying on the crazy shirts I find. I had to crop half the picture of though. I was so focused on taking her picture, I forgot that I was capturing my own image, sitting on the bench with my shirt unbuttoned.

2011-10-03T21:20:00.000-04:00

Born to Be Wild.

From the time I was born...or at least from the time of my earliest memories, I knew I was meant to be Hedy Lemar, Rita Hayworth or Eva Gardner. My nails were painted, I had a vanity that I sat in front of and brushed my hair for hours, wishing for long thick hair and red lips. I'd wear my moms heals around the house wearing a little scrap of faux leopard fur around my neck. That is who I was and still am. I love fur and wear it whenever I can. I'd much rather wear a renewable source, non toxic, God made material, than something created in a science lab that doesn't biodegrade and out gasses toxic fumes. All that to say, I was thrilled to find this rabbit fur scarf at Good will for $4.50. Megan was less than thrilled, but Oliver loves it!

2011-10-02T19:43:00.000-04:00

Absolutely Giddy.

What a busy fun filled weekend it has been; having a normal life is wonderful! Friday night I went to a football game at my old high school and met up with my friend Sheila, her mom, and the mother of an old boyfriend. I had to leave at half time though because it was so cold out. Everyone there was in coats and all I had on was a t-shirt, khakis and a sweater.

Saturday morning we went to Perryville, the town I lived in for two years, for a parade.This is the town.

It was 41 out and Megan I froze, but Oliver stayed cozy and warm.

I ran into some gals I graduated from high school with.

Usually I wander the town after the parade, but it was so cold we went home with plans to return in the afternoon. This weekend was the Battle of Perryville commemoration and there were all kinds of festivities. We returned to participate in a Worldwide Photo Walk.

The Chaplin River.

Megan getting the perfect shot.

The Elmwood Inn, where I worked when it was a restaurant.

This was our lunch. It was so good we went back for seconds.

This morning I was going to go get coffee, but my car was covered in a sheet of ice. I know, it looks like frost, but the ice was so thick I couldn't scrape it off.

2011-09-29T18:07:00.000-04:00

Greg and Oliver.

Or as greg likes to call himself, Uncle Fun.

2011-09-28T18:35:00.002-04:00

Blue Jean

(David Bowie)

Shirt, a recent Goodwill find. Blue jeans, borrowed from Megan, rhinestone sandals given to me by Renee.

Fashion post inspired by Joanna.

This afternoon my brother Greg got into town and the two of us went out for lunch together. I ate INSIDE the restaurant. Miracles do happen.

2011-09-27T10:33:00.004-04:00

So Unusual.

(Jason Mraz.)

Who else bursts a blood vessel by lifting something heavy?

I really hurt and my one vein was HUGE...and this isn't the first time its happened.

I found these two Banana Republic shirts for Jessica, at Goodwill. Had they been a bit larger, they would have been mine. (See how friendly the grey shirt is?)

I found a pair of leather, $300 riding boots for Megan at Goodwill. They were $3; a size smaller, and they would have been mine. (you can see them on her blog, where she posted all the pictures I took while we were in Madison.)

My mom found this fabulous shirt at Goodwill. She said, "Don't show it to Dick, or he'll buy it for me and then wonder why I don't wear it." Of course I had to show it to Dick then. He said it was very pretty, and we had to explain to him that no, it was not.

Someone spent a lot of time embellishing this shirt.

Dick had to be admitted to the hospital yesterday. He was at his cardiologists and went into a fib. This has been a problem in the past, and today the Dr's are going to do put him under and check some things out. Prayers for him and my mom would be greatly appreciated.

2011-09-26T10:23:00.002-04:00

Oh Yes I Did.

After two years of naked nails, my feet finally look like they belong to me again. I veered away from my classic red and instead painted them a deep aubergine called, "Honk if you love OPI."
Honk, honk.

2011-09-23T14:43:00.002-04:00

Instead of Blogging....

I've been shopping. In stores. Stores I normally don't even go near. Tuesday I went to TJMaxx, Marshalls and Whole Foods with their freshly sealed blacktop. I did not get sick. Yesterday I went to Big Lots, the store that smells like China . I usually have trouble standing outside the store let alone venturing in. Yesterday not only did I go in, but I was standing looking at mops when my mom came up and said, "Tricia! You're standing in the aisle with cleaners and detergents! I hadn't even noticed. Being able to breathe and have a normal life is wonderful.
Tomorrow Megan, Oliver and I are driving to Madison IN to visit Monica and attend the Chautauqua Festival. Jessica and the family will be there too, so I'm sure lots of fun will be had.
These are from my visit with Monica two weeks ago.

2011-09-21T21:13:00.002-04:00

We Are Family.

(Sister Sledge)

Ray, Jessica and the kids are on a quick trip to Ky to visit family, and this morning they stopped by my mom's to visit for a couple of hours.

The kids absolutely LOVE Dick. The funny thing is, Dick isn't particularly fond of kids, yet he is always so patient with them and spent nearly 45 minutes holding them.

Mom and the girls, who were both very tired and sucking their fingers.

After driving all night, Ray still had to work once he got here.

Addison is so very sweet with Oliver.

Claymond.

2011-09-17T06:33:00.002-04:00

Where Have I Been?

I'm in Danville, KY. This is Main ST.

The surrounding area looks like this. Beautiful, isn't it?

We've been having such a wonderful time, (I've not had any breathing problems since we got here!) that Megan, Oliver and I are staying a bit longer, while Brewier flew home last night...but not before he arranged all the Tom Clancey novels at Goodwill.

Apparently the shop keepers didn't appreciate this and had redistributed them by the next time we went in.
what we frequent almost as much as Goodwill, is the farmers market, held Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

I've also been able to meet up with my nieces and their kids.

And have been to visit Brewiers mom, who is now in a nursing home.

2011-09-11T10:48:00.003-04:00

The Finished Product.

I plan on making a few changes in the design as I make more of these upcycled scarves, such as making them a bit closer to the neck, but overall I'm happy with it.

Want to know what else is going on while we are in Danville? Visit Megans blog!

2011-09-06T13:13:00.002-04:00

Rainy, Crafty Days.

Megan and I made a trip to Goodwill this morning to look for mens ties. I had come across a shop that carries beautiful neck wear made from mens ties, and knew it was something I wanted to try.

We bought this pile of lovelies to work on when Oliver goes down for a nap.

2011-09-03T19:20:00.002-04:00

It's 7:30...

And I haven't taken any pictures of clouds today. The sun is starting to set and my upload cord is packed away, ready for it's trip to KY. I do have this photo from Aug 2004...and there are clouds in it.

2011-09-02T23:21:00.001-04:00

What I Wore Today.

Photo challenge, day two.
Very much the most unattractive articles of clothing I own. They don't fit right and I've had the linen pants for 8 years. I'm holding one leg tight to show you just how huge they are.

2011-09-01T22:21:00.003-04:00

I Almost Forgot!

Jane posted this photography challenge that I want to participate in. Today is a self portrait. This is from May, taken with Photobooth ...before I gained 10 pounds. Yes, I am that vain.

2011-09-01T21:59:00.003-04:00

Too Tired.

(Gary Moore)

To blog much. We've had a few busy days here. Lots of visitors +lots of fun.
Yesterday Jessica and the kids were here for the day, and Renee and Eva stopped by to party with us. Kate and Addison LOVE Eva and were so happy she was able to visit and play with them, and it gave us grownups a chance to talk.

(I don't have many pics because Jessica and I have identical cameras, and I was using here, thinking it was mine, fr most of the afternoon.)

See Oliver under Brewiers office chair? He has learned that if he pulls on the lever, he can lower Brewier down to his level.

2011-08-29T21:27:00.002-04:00

Monday, Monday.

(The Mamas and The Papas)

Hmmm, blog or watch documentaries on Netflix. Guess which I'm doing?

(My somewhat abandoned craft blog is up to 1019 followers.

2011-08-28T12:12:00.003-04:00

Saturday Sun.

(Nick Drake)

Our contract with Verizon expired in the spring, and we've been going month by month with them until we decided what new phones and what new plan we wanted. (Texting was not in our old plan!!) Yesterday afternoon we all, (Brewier, Megan, Oliver, Gator, and I,) packed into the car and went to Costco to visit the Verizon kiosk. We picked a plan, paid for 3 new phones and then waited 1 1/2 HOURS while they tried to activate the plan...with no success. We were told very rudely that it wasn't their fault and we could come back tomorrow and they could try again, but we weren't allowed to take the phones we already paid for out of the store. Brewier returned the phones and talked to the Costco manager who said they've been getting complaints about the Wireless Advocates, employees who run the kiosk. SO we are still without a new plan or new phones.
While Brewier dealt with the phone issue this is what the rest of us did.

Gator rested on some boxes.

Oliver tried out a new car seat.

I asked Gator to be a ships masthead for me.

Megan and I were so traumatized, (I'm very serious here,) by the nastiness of Dorothy at the Verizon kiosk, that we were unable to cook dinner and decided to soothe our nerves with Thai food.

On our way home from Thai House we passed

A yellow truck

An orange van

An aqua house

And a food truck bazaar

The end.

2011-08-25T11:14:00.004-04:00

Whats Going On

(Marvin Gaye)

Right now our weather is alternating between bright blue skies with puffy white clouds,

and grey, rainy windy weather, as the feeder bands from hurricane Irene hit us.

Its great and makes for wonderful coffee drinking weather. Things I need to be doing however are;

Working on my craft blog. I haven't updated in months and months...yet I keep getting new followers and am up to 1014 of them. Brewier keeps trying to think of ways I can make an income from my blog. Updating regularly would probably help.

Taking photos of my many treasures and listing in my etsy shop. Little by little things sell and I'm down to five pieces in the shop.

Yeah...so this was actually yesterdays (Thursday) post that I never finished. Today I am still in my pj's drinking coffee and playing with Oliver. It's a good life.
I came across a website that shows pictures of the insides of peoples refrigerators which I find fascinating. Of course I'm also the person who loves to see what everyone else is buying at the grocery store. I like food. I took a photo of what my refrigerator looks like today.

This is the worlds best strawberry jelly. So say I and Megan. We have 5 more jars of it in the pantry because it was on sale last week...and we eat jelly daily.

2011-08-24T22:16:00.002-04:00

Cut's Like a Knife.

(Bryan Adams)

Megan and I went to Starbucks Sunday to play cards, eat chocolate and drink coffee. The shop is located between UCF and Full Sail, and I was the oldest person there by 2o years.
Ouch.

2011-08-23T17:47:00.004-04:00

Eat It.

(Weird Al)

Despite not having school age children, I still make "Back to School" blueberry muffins every year. Monday was the first day of public school here in Orange Co. as well as being the first day of school for many of my homeschooling friends, so muffins were made and friends were invited over.

Melissa, Vivien, Renee, Oliver and Eva.

That evening Vivien was being baptized at Renees house. Megan, Oliver and I went and Oliver encountered his first bearded man, Marco.

It took him awhile to warm up to the idea of facial hair.
Vivien and Olivia

We had such a wonderful time hearing Viviens testimony and witnessing her baptism.

Today was clean out the refrigerator day and Megan made us this soup from all the bits and pieces that needed to be used up. It was seriously good.

And never forget,

(thank you Pinterest for making me laugh until I cry.)

2011-08-22T09:06:00.000-04:00

That's All.

(Genisis...because I love the '80's.)

Random facts about myself which I used to do on Wednesdays, but it's not very random if you do it the same day every week.

- I've gained 12 pounds in the past 6 weeks from stress eating. None of my clothes fit.
- I don't like the color yellow.
- I am very uncomfortable talking to people and am a horrible conversationalist.
- I truly feel like I belong on the west coast of the U.S., even though I've never been
there.
- I miss having a cat.

2011-08-21T20:49:00.003-04:00

Good Thing.

No, I'm not quoting Martha Stewart, but the Fine Young Cannibals. I've been trying to use song titles as post titles.
I've followed a blog called "Vegan Lunchbox" for a few years now. The woman packs her sons lunch in this really cool bento box called a "lap top lunch." I've wanted to buy one for. like. ever. But they are pricey. Whole Foods sells them.

Yes, thats right. $33 for some, (thankfully) made in America pink plastic. Imagine my spastic excitement when I spotted a brand new lap top lunch box at a garage sale for $1. I grabbed that thing so quick, I frightened Brewier. Then I kept it out on my kitchen counter for a week so I could admire it. Have I used it? No. But I have one and its mine, all mine. (Because deep down inside I'm 8 years old.)

2011-08-20T20:36:00.002-04:00

We Like Big Books and I can Not Lie...

I come from a family of readers, and have passed the love on to Jessica and Megan. Oliver has inherited the reading gene and will sit in bed with Megan for 30 minutes as she reads all his books to him. That's like 5 hours in grown up human time.

Megan and I made a quick trip to Barnes and Noble yesterday during Olivers nap. B&N has published a lot of old titles with beautiful bindings, and yes I want them all.

The beautiful summer sky on our way to the book store.

Oliver woke up while we were out so Brewier set up this play area for him in his office.
A broken computer, an empty water jug,an empty tissue box, and a bathmat. Oliver loved it.

2011-08-19T19:01:00.005-04:00

It's a New Sensation.

Megan needed some storage bins and a quick trip to ~~Walmart~~ hell seemed to be our best shopping option. As a reward for our pain and suffering we decided to see if we could find some decent chocolate in the candy aisle. I didn't have high hopes, but when I saw this Chuao, Firecracker bar and read the description I was hooked.
Dark chocolate, chipotle peppers, salt and the magic ingredient that makes it awesome, pop rocks. I love pop rocks....and I love this chocolate bar.

I've been spending all my computer time on Pintrest again, and came across this picture the other morning. This could totally be my mom and her cat Romeo. Seriously. I have a fourth brother now and he's a feline.

And incase you know of anyone in need of furniture; I'm getting rid of my love seat. $150 or best offer. Or any offer. It needs to go to make room for Megans stuff.

Craigslist link for it.

2011-08-17T21:51:00.002-04:00

The First Blog I Ever Read.

I started reading it in Dec of 2001. LoriLoo. I haven't read it in years, but just came across the bookmark.

2011-08-16T06:52:00.003-04:00

Beach Day.

Saturday Brewier had an audition in Sarasota and since I never turn down an opportunity to go to the beach, Megan, Oliver and I tagged along. This was Olivers first trip to the beach and he is a true water lover. Even when the very salty waves crashed in his face, he would just blow the water out of his nose and smile. He desperatly wants to swim and doggy paddles when we hold him out in the water.

After the beach Brewier had his audition at a Sarasota hotel; Megan Oliver and I stayed in the car and watched Greek, on my computer. The audition went quickly and we then headed to Jessicas, for a quick visit.

Ray, Clay and Oliver.

We visited only an hour, as Jessica and family had a birthday party to go to. Being dinner time we hit up her local Five Guys for burgers and fries. The first time I ate there I liked it, but now...I don't really care for it at all. (Sorry Jess.)

I found this on Pintrest.

I totally did too.

2011-08-12T10:17:00.002-04:00

Busy Days.

Yesterday morning Vickie came by, (with McDonalds coffee!) for a morning of watercolors and surprised us by bringing her daughter Corey along! Vickie has radiation done every morning just a few blocks from y house; and while having cancer sucks, getting to see her weekly is nice.

Lately my days have been going by in a blur. Getting Megan settled, and watching Oliver, while Meg works on rebuilding her Etsy business takes up most of our days. Meal planning has taken a back burner and Thai House has been the source of many dinners. Megan has a very limited diet due to Olivers food sensitivities, (I'm so sorry you seemed to have inherited my immune system Oliver,) and has found out how depressing and draining trying to figure out what to eat, can be.

This little face makes me so happy.

2011-08-10T21:31:00.002-04:00

I <3 American Express.

Remember I told you about my brand new camera slipping and falling to the ground, shattering the the viewing screen and messing up the focus? Well, yesterday I realized that I bought it with American Express and they offer a 90 day warranty on any purchase. It had been 94 days since I purchased it, but 90 days since I received the camera. Brewier called AmX and told them my sad story, and they said they would pass it onto an adjuster. Less than 24 hours later Brewier received an email saying they were refunding us the price of the camera and I can buy a new one!!

2011-08-08T16:18:00.005-04:00

Call Me Methuselah.

Schedules permitting, Monday mornings are coffee, in pj's with Renee. This morning however, we were treated to this lovely dining experience. It's a bit like going to a resort when you visit Renee. Her home is beautifully decorated with Charleston/tropical feel; her pool and landscaping are inviting and lush. Then there is the food. Renee is the ultimate southern hostess, always ready with some tasty treat.

Oliver was entranced by Saras beauty.

After breakfast, 8 year old Eva came home with us. On the ride she was telling Megan about Sara's apartment and how, "New Yorky," it was. She also told Megan that Sara had a neighbor whose name is, "Mr. Mister," (true!) and that he was really old....like 30.
Gulp.
When we get home Eva and I go back into my craft room for some fun time. I pull out some felt and embroidery floss, and teach her how to do the blanket stitch.

As we are sitting and stitching, Eva glances over to the heart I'm makeing and comments on how neat the stitches are.

I tell her this is because I've been sewing for a long time.
"Yeah, I guess this is a good thing to sit and do when you're old.....Um, I mean Older," She says as she cautiously glances up at me. I ask her if she knows how old I am. "No," she answers. I tell her I am turning 50 this year and her eyes get HUGE. "You're older than my dad!" Yep, call me Methuselah.

2011-08-07T20:57:00.004-04:00

Scenes From the Past Week.

Almond Joy cupcake at Bluebird Bakeshop.

Brewier waiting for me to finish taking cupcake pictures.

It was worth the wait.

Lake Eola Market.

After being struck by lightning, the fountain is fixed!

Birds at the beach.

Corvette on fire. It was completely burned, and I was having a panic attack driving through the very smelly and toxic fumes. I survived.

Grasshopper porn.

These are really big grasshoppers..

2011-08-06T14:34:00.002-04:00

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

Fortunately there is a lot more good than there is bad and ugly. Having Megan and Oliver around is so much fun. Meg and I have always gotten along pretty well. We have the same interests and hobbies, like the same kinds of food and share a similar sense of humor. It's nice having someone to drink coffee with in the morning and to plan meals with. Even nicer is that Megan cooks for us and makes me oatmeal in the morning. She makes the best oatmeal; just ask Addison. Having Oliver around is such a joy. He's such a happy personable little guy, and watching him grow and develop is truly a blessing.

The Bad.
My house is still a crazy, sticky mess. While the garage sale cleared out some of the boxes, there are still a lot to go through; not just Megans stuff, but mine too. When I start to get overwhelmed and crabby by all the disorder, (which falls under the, "Ugly," category,) I try to remember how hard this is for Megan. She's been used to having her own home and is now trying to squeeze into one room.
Brewier and I are trying to adjust to the lack of privacy. We had an evening routine of eating dinner then spending time together watching our favorite shows on the computer. I miss that a lot.

The Ugly.
Mostly that's me and my attitude, which I'm trying to work on.

Oliver and Mark.

Oliver and Vickie.

2011-08-05T15:06:00.005-04:00

I'll Sleep When I Die.

Though I've yet to hear him utter it, I'm pretty sure that is what Oliver is thinking. Despite our best efforts, he refuses to go to sleep before 9pm, then wakes at 4:30am, all smiles and full of energy. Meanwhile, Megan and I are bleary eyed, coffee drinking, zombies. We had grand plans to have her room prettified by the end of the week, but that hasn't happened yet. We did get some fabric to make some pillows, and we have curtains that just need to be embellished before being hung. Here are some pics give you an idea of our progress.

Brewier taking apart the weight machine.

The empty room. Megan and I can't get over how narrow it looks.

Everyone who sees her room now, says, "Wow, this room is a lot bigger than I thought!"
(That's a king sized bed.)

Hopefully this weekend will see the room decorated.

2011-08-04T05:11:00.003-04:00

You Should Watch It Too.

I don't know Nick or Maria, but this is their wedding ~~video~~ film, and its lovely to watch... so very romantic and at the end there are floating lanterns and fireworks. Who doesn't like floating lanterns and fireworks?

nick+maria • england wedding from Paperback Weddings on Vimeo.

2011-08-03T21:56:00.002-04:00

Even If I Weren't Her Grandmother...

I'd be impressed with Addisons art work. This is a drawing of balloons filiing the sky. A few have fallen down and she and Kate caught them. The bottom left shows duplicate doodles. Its one dolphin, but she drew it in different stages of its jump and roll.

2011-08-02T13:04:00.002-04:00

The Mystery of the Pink Panties.

I was lounging around Saturday evening recovering from the garage sale when I get a phone call from Darlene. "Hi Tricia, are you missing a pair of pink panties?" Caught of guard I had to think a minute. Hmmm....I had just done laundry and both pairs of my pink panties had been washed and folded. "Uh, I don't think so." Darlene then explains that there is a pair of pink panties in the tin box of bullets I returned to Mark. He was not so thrilled, nor did he see the humor in finding them there, (thankfully he was not at the gun range when he discovered them,) but both Darlene and I were in hysterics. After hanging up and thinking about it, I remember hiding the gun and bullets before our trip to KY. I also remember grabbing something off the top of my dresser from the pile of mystery clothes, (Clothes that I find around my house that don't belong to me,) to stick in the tin of bullets so they wouldn't rattle in case thieves broke in to my house and pulled out the basket I had tucked the tin into.
So, if you left a pair of pink panties at my house, they're gone. actually, if you left any clothing item at my house it's gone because the pile that was on my dresser went the garage sale way.

2011-08-01T06:35:00.003-04:00

And Now Back to Our Regular Programing.

Things are starting to settle down here and we are getting into more of a schedule; I plan to start blogging regularly. We had our garage sale both Friday and Saturday and sold nearly everything we put out. My garage is still full of both mine and Megans stuff, but inside is getting a bit better.
I have so many photos from when Addison and Kate were here, unfortunately most of them are out of focus. I was squatting while packing boxes at Megans house when my brand new PowerShot ELPH, slipped out of my pocket and hit the floor. The LCD screen, (which sits higher than the protective edge of the camera...really poor design,) is badly cracked and the camera doesn't focus as it should. I still feel like crying.

While Kate and Addison were here, their cousins, Sam and Gator, came over for a visit. They had so much fun together; the boys are really sweet to their young cousins. After much playing, we built a tent, made a big bowl of popcorn and watched The Incredibles.

2011-07-30T05:46:00.002-04:00

It Wasn't the Day I Had Planned.

I had visions of spending yesterday morning at the beach, so at 7:30 Brewier and I headed out the door. As we were getting into the car we noticed our neighbor across the street, (who put his house up for sale the same weekend we signed papers to sell our house,) had a canopy up in his drive way; a sure sign of an impending garage sale. We went back into the house, got Megan, and started dragging things into the driveway for a garage sale of our own. Most of what we sold was little stuff belonging to Meg, and we still have a garage full of boxes to go through and hopefully sell more today.
As far as our house goes, we'd still like to sell it, but with Megan and Oliver living with us, and the fact that there are 3 houses for sale on my street, (nobody is able to afford there mortgage right now,) we've put our sale on hold. It used to be nearly impossible to buy a house in this neighborhood, with houses selling before they even went on the market and usually for more than the asking price. Now every street is dotted with,"For Sale," signs. Kind of scary.

2011-07-28T19:41:00.002-04:00

It's So Fun to Be Me.

If you visit Megans blog, you can see the pretty nail polish we bought. I threw caution to the wind and decided to paint my nails to match Megs. This is how far I got before being overcome by fumes. (My foot is on the right.)

As far as getting pictures of Megans finished room....they're still on my camera.

2011-07-25T08:46:00.002-04:00

I Need Some Pretty.

I've been zoning out on Pinterest (My boards) because my house currently looks like this.

My living room.

My bedroom. (Now Megan and Olivers room.)

Mt craft room.

Our two car garage, full except for this path out.

Today we are going to work at disassembling our weight room to turn it into Meg and Olivers room. In a couple of weeks we are going to have a ginormous garage and sell off most of Megs stuff....and a bunch of mine too. The most daunting aspect is that there is so much stuff, we can't go through it unless we pull it all out onto the driveway.

2011-07-21T08:11:00.002-04:00

The Splash Park.

This morning while sitting bleary eyed, enjoying my coffee, Addison asked if she and Kate could open the front door and, "Check the weather." Since I was sitting just 3 feet from the door, I said, "Sure." A few seconds later I heard squealing, and the sound of their feet running up the sidewalk. "Maemae!" Addison shouted. "Can we play in your splash park?" Ummm, what splash park, I'm thinking. Then I look outside and see that our automatic sprinklers are on. They had a great time at the splash park and think their Popsey is awesome for turning it on for them.

2011-07-19T17:21:00.001-04:00

Paper is SO Overrated.

2011-07-17T21:56:00.003-04:00

I Don't Even Know Where To Begin.

So I'll give you the highlights. I have 4 extra people living in my house right now.
Megan and Oliver are now living with Brewier and I. We moved the contents of Megans home into our home, the same weekend we signed papers to short sale our house.
I drove to Tampa and back this afternoon to pick up Addison and Kate. They are staying with me for the week. I'm still trying to figure out where we will all sleep. So far I have Megan and Oliver in my bedroom, Brewier is on one of Megans sofas, that is surrounded by boxes and other furniture in our living room. Addison is in Brewiers bed, and Kate is in my stuffed to overflowing craft room laying on a blanket, on the floor. She asked to sleep there AFTER I told them if they weren't quiet they would have to sleep in the, dark creepy craft room. I don't know if she is trying to impress me with her braveness or what, but she looks really happy in there, though I think Addison is worried for her.

2011-07-13T10:15:00.002-04:00

Goodwill Outfit #1

Gray/Brown Talbots linen dress. $5
Silver mesh vintage belt. $1.50
Brand new brown, heeled sandals. $3

Love the details on this dress.