A Perfect Beginning

iPhone: Friday

2012-01-26T19:58:00.001-06:00

A few weeks ago, Gary, ,Bo and I went for a 3 mile walk in the woods. I was lingering behind as they walked ahead, when I saw this tree branch. Isn't it a hoot?!

From a different angle it looked like a snake and yet standing in front of it reminds me a crazy dude with spiked hair. What do you think?

I hope everyone has a golden week and let your imagination go a bit wild!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

See how nature-trees, flowers, grass grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence… we need silence to be able to touch souls.

~Mother Teresa~

Corner View: January

2012-01-24T19:09:00.000-06:00

A perfect corner view topic this week for me. January brings a stillness after all the rushing and celebrating of the previous months. It also brings the temperatures down to a chill and most of the time a bit of snow, which is perfect for a nester like me.

January also gives me a different view of nature and the beauty around me. Knowing that shortly under the blanket of snow, spring is waiting to arrive.

On the not so cold days, I bundle up and take Bo for a long walk in the woods, as we listen to the cool breeze and the fresh snow crunches under my feet and his paws.

To visit more of January stop over by Francesca’s corner. Thank you Kelleyn for an easy and fun topic!

Thanks for stopping by my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

To read a poem in January is as lovely as to go for a walk in June

~Jean-Paul Sartre~

Corner View: Black And White

2012-01-17T16:01:00.000-06:00

We finally have snow!

I love this time of year, maybe because I l am nester at heart.

It gives me time to heal, refresh, tackle indoor projects and simply enjoy the quiet moments.

To see more on black and white visit Francesca's
corner.

Thanks for stopping by my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Kindness is like snow, it beautifies everything it covers

~ Anonymous~

Friday: iPhone Photo

2012-01-13T00:01:00.006-06:00

I have some good news to share! Remember my poor little camera with the broken shutter? Well... she is back home and working!! Yes, she is already home from sunny California. Yahoo...

I know there will be another camera in my future. I just wasn't ready to part ways with my gal. She is my first, the one who sees the beauty even in the smallest things, she knows what makes my heart dance, we have shared so many roads and now have many more to discover. Thank you Gary for always going the extra mile, and for turning my frown turn into a smile!

While I get reacquainted with her. I thought I would share another iPhone photo.

This sweet ride, isn't my vintage dream red truck, but I saw it on the roadside and fell in love with this sweet one.

Wishing you a perfect and golden weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

dreams are illustrations...
from the book your soul is writing about you
~ Marsha Norman ~

Corner View: Ring Out The Old, Ring In The New

2012-01-10T20:11:00.000-06:00

Welcome back to Corner View. Ringing out the old and ringing in the new, is a cleansing for me in so many ways. One place I start is in the kitchen, I go through the cabinets and refrigerator getting rid of process food and replace with more fresh veggies and fruits.

The holidays are filled with so much food and beverages, I actually look forward to the new year when things slow down a bit and I can focus what is on my plate.

One area I change is my veggies go from dipping in cheese or dips to eating either plain or with a balsamic dressing.

Thank you, Renee for this week’s topic. To see more of the old and new visit, Francesca's corner.

Enjoy the new!
Hugs
Joyce
xo

The beginning of wisdom is silence. The second step is listening.

~Unknown~

Friday: iPhone Photo

2012-01-06T00:01:00.007-06:00

While my camera is in sunny California. It isn't a bad thing, it is teaching me to be resourceful and creative. So... here is my first Friday, of using my cellphone photos.

This scale is in an old barn, I visited in the Fall. I am going to have to go back and get a better image, because I actually like the strength of this scale in black and white.

I have our company party tonight. The last of the parties for a bit. I have my list and fingers cross all will go smoothly. :) What are you plans this weekend?

Have a wonderful weekend my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

I’d rather be a few pounds heavier and enjoy life.

~Drew Barrymore~

Say Cheese!

2012-01-04T00:44:00.000-06:00

Nope, I won't be taking any photos soon. I found out the shutter is done on my sweet little gal. I guess I took a lot of photos. Gary was able to find a place online that will hopefully be able to replace the shutter for a 1/4 of the price, I was quoted. I think it might be time to look into another one.

In the meantime I have this platter of cheese. I like cheese platters/trays. It gives me and my guest a chance to try different kind of cheese. Trader Joe's has a white cheese with caramelized onions that I'm in love with! It is a close run with Brie, another fav of mine. What is your favorite?

Enjoy!
Joyce
xo

Age is not important unless you're a cheese

~Helen Hayes~

Simplify

2012-01-02T09:49:00.000-06:00

Ummm... I don't know what has happened with me and electronics lately. This was going to be the year to simplify, but.... really all of my favs?! The camera is broke, the computer is reaching its limit and now I lost all of my favorite blogs in google reader.

I think someone or something is trying to tell me something. Don't you? If you don't mind, please leave me a message so I can reconnect with you. I know it isn't the end of the world, but your world matters to me.

The photo above is Bo's first time on the beach in Kenosha, last week. It was a cold one, but he sure enjoyed himself. These are the days that matter and makes things all right.

Have a golden one my friends.
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

In one drop of water are found all the secrets of all the oceans.
~Kahlil Gibran~

Remembering And Dreaming

2011-12-30T09:54:00.000-06:00

The decorations are put away (the day after Christmas), work tasks are completed till next year, so now I can sit back and enjoy the last few days of this year.

As we near the end of 2011, I would like to thank you for your friendships and wonderful comments throughout the year. It is because of you, taking the time out of your day to stop by that keeps my little blog going.

I can’t believe how fast this year has gone. It has been a good year with some highs and lows, but either way, there were always lessons to learn along the way. I hesitate and hold my breath what 2012 will bring our way, but no matter what I know there are treasures waiting to be discovered.

Be safe and enjoy the next couple of days. I will see you next year!

Happy 2012 my friends and may it be bright!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

P.S. As for my camera, I’m not sure if my little gal will see the new year, it looks very bleak, but I’m hopeful.

Remember today, for it is the beginning of always.

Today marks the start of a brave new future filled with all your dreams, your heart can hold.

Think truly to the future and make those dreams come true.

Wrapping

2011-12-28T09:31:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. We had a nice time.

I woke up early Christmas morning to get my camera ready for when Bo and Gary woke up. I managed to take one photo when the my sweet little camera decided to go on strike. Thank goodness I have the memories imprinted in my heart. Bo was really into Christmas this year . He even managed to open one of his gift before Christmas.

While I take my camera in to be looked at, I thought I would share some of my simple holiday wrapping. The kitchen window was a last minute idea to dress. I added fresh roping and tied some of vintage pieces and small wooden ornaments I purchased at The Backdrop.

I like to use wrapping paper I can use throughout the year. I use to get seasonal wrapping, but realized I would have pits and pieces of paper, so I decided to be wise and save space by using paper I can use for all or most occasions.

Another way I like to wrap is to use boxes, simply adding a ribbon or twine with a gift top

or adding a bit of paper to it.

Well, I'm off to the camera shop. Enjoy your day my friends!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

In the depth of winter I finally learned that there within me lay an invincible summer

~ Albert Camus~

From Our Home To Yours...

2011-12-24T00:01:00.001-06:00

We wish you a very Merry Christmas!

May the season fill your hearts bright and the spirit within you shine

As we celebrate the birth of the child that was born on this day.

Have a golden Merry Christmas my friends!
Love, and hugs,
Joyce, Gary and Mr. Bojangles
xo

Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time.

~Laura Ingalls Wilder~

Highlights Of The Evening

2011-12-23T08:22:00.001-06:00

Zach's party was a good time. I think he really enjoyed himself and is happy school is behind him.

The desserts were the highlights of the evening. They were made by Zach and some by his mom (my sister).

Here is an evening image of the table. I like candlelight dinners. If you look closely you can see a loaf of bread in the shape of an alligator, made by Chef Zach!

And the evening could not end without our friends and family leaving with party favors. I love giving out party favors. These were hot chocolate on a stick. Yum...

I hope everyone is taking time to enjoy the season!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

From Home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another.
The warmth and joy of Christmas, brings us closer to each other.
~Emily Matthews~

Friday

2011-12-15T16:22:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a good week

I am happy the way the tables turned out for Saturday's party, simple, vintage feel and a splash of bling, just like the theme for this year's decorations. With Zach's graduation being close to Christmas, I didn't want the table to look too Christmas, since this was a graduation gathering and not a Christmas party.

I used Kraft paper with fine lines in it for a table cloth. I use Kraft paper often, usually as a runner, but decided to give it a present feel by wrapping it on the table tops. I then uses burlap ribbon, tossing crystals on the table for bling, adding a few small votives. The centerpieces are vintage containers filled with greens and cream pillar candles. The simple red stripe napkins (can be used for Valentine's and summer gatherings) are from Pottery Barn. I fell in love with them, because of the vintage look. I then used basic buffet white plates so I can toss them in the dishwasher and finally for the placecards I stamped clothespins with my guest's names, clipped on the plate. As you can see I mix and match pieces.

Do you set your table/s in advance? This is one of my favorite parts of getting ready for a party is the table. I like to do this a couple of days in advance so I can plan and make changes without rushing. I then cover the table with plastic to keep dust free and remove the morning of the party.

I have a couple of things to do for work that needs to be done before the end of the year, the party is this Saturday, shopping is done except for a couple of animal rescue groups, and cards are being written in between. Ahhh... next week looks a bit lighter and brighter.

Have a magical weekend my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.

~Peg Bracken~

Happy Monday!

2011-12-12T07:47:00.002-06:00

As I squeeze in work and continuing planning for Zach's party this weekend, I will share a couple of photos of our Christmas decor.

I miss visiting your blogs, but will soon. Um... I must be busier than I thought. The other day when a neighbor saw me, she said, "I don't see you anymore, I thought you moved". Smile...

I listen to Christmas songs in the car, on my phone, and at home. Do you share the love of Christmas tunes?

Have a magical day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.

~Charles Schulz~

I'm Still Here....

2011-12-07T10:44:00.001-06:00

I didn't get lost in the city last Friday. I had a GREAT time! I just have been tied up with work, planning for my nephews graduation next Friday and of course in the craze of the holiday season.

I hope you are enjoying the holiday season! I'm almost finished with shopping. How about you?

Have a golden day~
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Remember, this December, that love weighs more than gold.
Josephine Dodge Daskam Bacon

It's A Wrap

2011-12-02T06:59:00.003-06:00

It is officially the Christmas season. Yahoo... I thought it would be fun to start the month off with a wrap. The folks at the post office always smile (a good thing, right?) when they see my packages or envelopes because I like to doodle (draw) on them.

(photo taken with my phone)
I love wrapping and using things for containers one might not use. So... I was double excited not only to sell this vintage jewelry box, but to a gal that likes to use things the same way I do. Do you like adding special touches to your gifts?

Sending you warm wishes for a golden weekend my friends!

Today is going to be my first day in awhile to play, so I'm taking the train into the city with my friend Lisa. I can't wait.

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.

~Janice Maeditere~

Corner View: Joy

2011-11-29T22:55:00.000-06:00

Many things bring me great joy, one is finding natures love at my feet.

With in a matter of days, "joy" will be in the air as Christmas will soon be here.

I saw this JOY project on Pinterest and liked the zinc look. Since, I already had the large cardboard letters, all I needed was the paint. Once I had Gary on the ladder, I realized I needed more zinc. Not a good time to tell him this, while he is balancing himself and the large letters. Oh, well there is always next year to add a bit more pearl paint over the black. In the meantime I will add a few fresh greens to it and all will be good.

To see more "Joy" visit Francesca's corner. Thank you, Karyn for a great topic this week!

I hope your day is a joyful one!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.

~Mother Teresa~

From Orange To Green

2011-11-27T20:51:00.002-06:00

Now that Thanksgiving is over, I quickly changed gears by replacing the pumpkins with greens and treetops. Most of our Christmas decorations and tree is up (thanks to Gary and Zach), except for the fresh garland indoors. I promised I wouldn't turn the lights till December 1. Shh... just don't tell Gary, I have been listening to Christmas music in the car for the last couple of weeks. I am adding a bit of vintage and glitz this year, so I started working on a couple of Christmas projects over the weekend.

I purchased these vases/bottles from West Elm, over the summer. I decided to use them as part of my Christmas decorations for the mantle. To give the bottles a bit of vintage touch, I tea stained the tags and stamped each tag with my favorite words for this time of year. I added one of my (many) favorite ribbons, some vintage tinsel and ornaments I had on hand. I will place a small battery votive candle behind the bottles to give a soft glow. I promist to show you the finished mantle, so stay tune.

We even managed to get Mr. Bojangles to sit for his Christmas card photo. He started off a bit bashful and at the end he was a ham for the camera. Don't worry I didn't break my promise this was the only time I had the tree lights on.

Have a golden one!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month.

~Harlan Miller~

Corner View: A Different Corner

2011-11-22T20:29:00.000-06:00

I can’t say I have a different corner, just a busy one lately, but most of all a special one. Special because of YOU! I don’t say it enough how grateful I am for your friendships, your visits here, the sweet comments, emails, texts, cards etc. With Thanksgiving being tomorrow and as I count my blessings I will say a special prayer for the golden threads of friendships I have developed through this little corner of mine. Thank you!

Visit Francesca's corner to see more different corners.

Warm wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving Day!

Hugs,

Joyce

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Shades Of The Season

2011-11-18T08:20:00.000-06:00

Is it just me or is the time flying by? I can't believe another week is gone and next week is Thanksgiving. I know we haven't celebrated Thanksgiving, but on my way home from work last night, I went to pick up a my little Christmas tree tops for the outdoor planters (I'm glad I did they were just about gone). Thanks to Gregg I got them at a great price, so I bought 3!

As we jump into the weekend, I thought I would share some of the photos from our trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Wishing you a golden weekend!

Hugs,

Joyce

Every leaf speaks bliss to me,
Fluttering from the autumn tree.
~Emily Bronte~

Corner View: Where Has The Time Gone?

2011-11-15T22:06:00.000-06:00

It seems like yesterday the trees on this path were full and green

Now the leaves have fallen

And soon the trees will be covered in snow, coming full circle.

To see more of time that has gone by visit Francesca's corner. Thank you, Theresa for a great topic!

Enjoy the moment!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity

~Henry Van Dyke~

Monday

2011-11-14T00:01:00.002-06:00

I will be back with some photos of our little get away in the mountains. In the meantime have a golden one!

Hugs,

Joyce

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.

~Elizabeth Lawrence~

Apples..

2011-11-03T20:00:00.005-05:00

What do you do with a bag of apples? Make apple sauce! Apples and Pork chops, was the phrase I heard all day, from my witty husband, while I made the apple sauce. It is my favorite Fall treat, that always brings fond memories of growing up.

I tried a new recipe from HERE. It filled the house with scents of Autumn and was delicious! Do you have a favorite apple sauce recipe?

We are taking a little trip for a few days, so I will be back in a few days.

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce

Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed

~Robert H. Schuller~

Corner View: Dream

2011-11-01T18:45:00.000-05:00

Dreams are good, they give us hope and wishes for the future. I shared a couple of weeks ago HERE about a childhood dream.

Today, I am living one of my biggest dreams that came true. I use to dream and wish someday I would be married to a wonderful man, have a house full of children and a dog. I'm happy to say most of my dream came true! God could not have picked a better man for me and guided the best pups to our door. I married the man of my dreams, he is my heart and soul, my friend, he makes me feel safe and provides for me (us). He, also helped make the other part of the dream come true, because he shares the same love for dogs as I do. This dream came true three times, first with our previous pups, Buddy and Kelly and now Mr. Bojangles. What more could a girl ask for? I hope I never wake up from this dream and it will last a lifetime!

To see more dreams visit Francesca’s corner. Thank you Tzivia for this week’s topic!!

Enjoy the moment!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for

~Epicurus~

Halloween

2011-10-30T21:00:00.002-05:00

For our Halloween handouts, I knew I was going to do something that blinked again this year, because the kids like them. I also like giving them out for safety and for the child who maybe can't have candy, chocolates or nuts, but still want enjoy Halloween.

I was drawing a blank this year in the treat category. That is until a little gent name Ike helped me out. His mom, Suann is the talent behind Simplesong blog, she finds the coolest things and at times share her amazing stories about her adorable son, Ike. I asked Suann if she would do me a favor and ask Ike what he would like for a treat. His response was a bag of Reese's peanut butter cups or pizza! She wasn't sure if he was serious, so she asked him again the following morning, his response was the same, so my goblins will not get pizza, but a bag full of Reese's peanut butter cups. Thanks Ike and I hope you enjoy your pail of Reese's peanut butter cups!

By the way, if you live in or near Old Town Alexandria, Virginia make sure to stop by Suann’s paper good shop, called Fifteen Eleven, you won't be disappointed.

Our Halloween treats are wrapped and the eyes are lit

Thanks to Donna at Flashing Blinky Lights I was able to get these cool rings, they blink for fun, great for safety, so the kids can be seen on the dark streets and they even feel gooey and soft like an eyeball!

All I have to do is wait for the little goblins to ring the bell.

Have "Boo"tiful Halloween!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Eat, drink and be scary.

~Author Unknown~

Corner View: Exotic

2011-10-25T18:48:00.001-05:00

I'm sure, if I think hard enough I could find more exotic things around me, but this exotic flower has my attention. I love the deep shades of orange that fits perfectly for our Autumn season and yet it let's my imaginations think of warmer weather, sandy beaches and fruity drinks with umbrellas.

I bet some of you, even have these flowers growing in your backyards. To visit more exotic places and things visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Elsa for this week's topic!

Thank you for stopping by!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

I’m an ocean, because I’m really deep. If you search deep enough you can find rare exotic treasures

~Christina Aguilera~

Corner View: Whatever Tickles Your Fancy

2011-10-18T19:30:00.001-05:00

Warning: This week's post is a bit monotonous. Right, now the only thing that tickles my fancy are these cherry cough drops and a chance to catch up on magazine reading.

Hop on over to Francesca's corner to see more of others, "what tickles your fancy". Thank you, Ninja for this week's topic!

Have a great day my friends.
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Those who tickle themselves may laugh when they please

~ German Proverb~

A Season Of Harvest

2011-10-17T00:01:00.002-05:00

Last weekend while we went apple and pumpkin picking, we also stopped at a corn maze. The place has a picnic area, so everyone brought a dish to pass.

With Autumn being a harvest season, I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate, but with a batch of homemade pumpkin empanadas. I didn’t want to worry about bringing a dish or basket back home, so I took a small cardboard box, covered it with Kraft paper, lined it with a sheet of parchment paper and tied a tag and twine around the outside. Afterwards I simply tossed the empty box away. Yes, empty everyone loved the empanadas!

You can find the recipe HERE. I love the recipes Yvette, Vangie, and Veronica share on their blog, they are three generations sharing their down home Mexican comfort foods. I can’t wait till their cookbook comes out next year!

May your day be filled with happiness!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Biting into a pumpkin empanada is like tasting Autumn's harvest on your lips
~joyce gallagher~

A Forgotten Childhood Dream

2011-10-14T09:21:00.001-05:00

As a small child, I used to dream about growing up someday to be a missionary or teaching art to the children on a Indian Reservation.

I haven’t thought about this dream in long time, that is until I happened to walk into the living room at the right time, to see Good Morning America . Diane Sawyer (a favorite of mine) his doing a special tonight on 20/20, called Children of the Plains. The memories resurfaced. I don’t want to miss the episode tonight, so I will record the show, so I can make sure to take it all in. Did you have dreams as a child and over the years forgot about them?

Wishing you a weekend full of dreams to come true!
Hugs,

Joyce

Grown men can learn from very little children

for the hearts of the little children are pure.

Therefore, the Great Spirit may show to them

many things which older people miss.

~Black Elk~

Corner View: October

2011-10-11T20:45:00.001-05:00

October reminds of a month that lingers and prepares. It tries to hold onto some of the warm sunny days of the past summer, while it prepares the wealth of golden harvest for the cold months ahead.
Some of you have asked about my plans of my little potatoes harvest here. I did find a few more in the soil, but I have to be honest they are so darn cute I don't know if I can bring myself to use them.

With our weather being extra beautiful this past weekend, we went apple and pumpkin picking on Saturday and to a corn maze. We filled a large bag full of apples and picked a pumpkin for each one of us.

On Sunday we went to the forest preserve, while Gary played ball with Bo, I took photos and met a senior gent by the name of Rich and his dog Patch. Just like the month of October lingers, so do my thoughts of Rich and Patch hoping they are having a golden day.

To view more of October visit Francesca's corner. Thank you, Kari for a great topic this week!

My dear friends, I'm still having trouble leaving comments on some of your blogs, so bear with me if you don't see a note from me. I hope the blog fairy will appear soon.

Enjoy your October day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

October is a symphony of permanence and change.
~Bonaro W. Overstreet~

Skiing In October

2011-10-07T00:01:00.006-05:00

We have been having beautiful weather this week. Last weekend we went to the Norge Ski Club event.

It was amazing to see the jumps without any snow!

Don't it look like green straws?

The skiers did awesome!

Just looking up the slopes made me dizzy.

It was a perfect day to spend with friends in the Autumn sun.

Thank you for stopping by this week. I greatly appreciate it!

I have been having trouble the last couple of weeks leaving comments on some of my favorite blogs, I am still trying to figure this out and hopefully will soon. If anyone has words of wisdom, I'm open for suggestions.

Have a wonderful weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Skiing is a dance, and the mountain always leads

~Author Unknown~

Corner View: The Last Thing I Learned

2011-10-04T17:00:00.001-05:00

I find learning comes in all shapes and sizes big and small, it is there every day I just have to listen and/or look.

Last week’s learning highlight was attending my first Webinar with Focus on Rescue (thanks Suzanne if it wasn’t for you, I would have missed this experience). It was about photographing dogs and/or cats in rescue and working with rescue groups.

Teresa Berg, is a talented Dallas, Texas photographer, who is bringing awareness and increasing adoption rates with her photography. There are no cages or bars between her camera lens and the animals only their personalities. She is reaching out to other photographers (professionals and hobbyists) to get involve and volunteer their time to rescue groups.

This pup’s face cracks me up every time I see it.

The images of the dogs above are not rescues, but dogs having the pleasure of having dinner on a deck with their owners. Docks bar and grill opened their deck to our pups for the month of September. Every Tuesday night for dinner the dogs had the pleasure of hanging and enjoying the view (scent) with their love ones, along with a big bowl of either chicken and rice or beef and rice.

I couldn't post all these adorable pups and not include Mr. Bojangles. Here he is waiting for the train to bring "his" Zach (my nephew) home from a day at school.

To see what others have recently learned, stop and visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Sophie this week’s topic!

Find your treasure of the day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

By learning you will teach, by teaching you will learn

~Latin Proverb~

Farmer's Daughter I'm Not

2011-10-03T00:01:00.007-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Ours was nice and of course went to fast. The weekend started with a beautiful walk with Bo and ended with a movie. I hope to share some photos later this week.

I couldn't wait anymore, to see how my first time at potato growing went. Ummm.... let me just say, if we need to live on my crop this winter, we will be very thin next spring.

I put a quarter next to the two potatoes, so you could see how small they are. OK, so I might not have a cellar full of potatoes, but don't you think these guys are too cute to eat?!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Farming looks mighty easy when your plow is a pencil and you're a thousand miles from the corn field.

~Dwight D. Eisenhower~

Here's To A Relaxing Weekend!

2011-09-29T20:58:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what we are doing, but I know I am going to do a bit of relaxing this weekend!

Wishing you a beautiful weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.
~Elizabeth Lawrence~

Corner View: Music

2011-09-27T14:45:00.003-05:00

I get the pleasure of having music everyday in my life, on the radio in the car, on my ipod, phone and my own private live concert. My love wrote this song, when our first pup, Buddy passed away. Gary even wrote one when Miss Kelly (pup) passed away. This is my first attempt of posting a video, so I hope it works.

Music comes in other form too, like this box of beautiful chocolates, it makes my tummy sing! (Thank goodness for the phone camera)

To hear more music, visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Dana!

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life

~Red Auerbach~

Highlight Of The Weekend

2011-09-26T05:57:00.004-05:00

As the weather changes, I noticed our eating habits change too.

We reach for comfort foods and have our "Sunday" meals. During the summer we are running here and there, dining out and having our meals on the patio. This is all wonderful, but there is something to be said, to have a quiet Sunday dinner indoors and at the table. Yes, the double bake potatoes were huge and slightly crispy, but good!

Ummm... I still haven't picked out the colors for the fireplace, but I did narrow it down to, two colors!

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

It’s comfort food; it’s heavy food; it’s food for days like today

~Jason Rogers~

Friday: Colors

2011-09-23T09:33:00.001-05:00

I love these cooler days and the richness of Fall.

Makes me want to get out the paint brush and paint this wall.

Now only if I can decide on the grey color. I'm leaning towards the dark grey (2nd from the left) to replace the burgundy. Oops, I haven't even begun to pick out the rest of the colors for this wall. Wish me luck! Oh, have I mentioned I am afraid of height?

Have a golden weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Weekends are a bit like rainbows; they look good from a distance but disappear when you get up close to them.

~John Shirley~

Corner View: Silly

2011-09-20T15:30:00.000-05:00

I tried to capture Bo being silly by standing on his head in his contortionist way, but this was impossible at this point.

So out came the emergency clown nose (from The Backdrop).

for Bo and I to get silly. Ummm... OK maybe I was the only one getting a good laugh at this point, because Bo doesn't look like he is having too much fun.

That is until I put on the nose, then he decided to chase me! Sorry it was hard to take the image of me running away from him. :)

To see more silliness visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Heather for a great topic!

Have a golden day!

Hugs,

Joyce

If people did not sometimes do silly things, nothing intelligent would ever get done

~Ludwig Wittgenstein~

Friday's Centerpiece

2011-09-16T00:01:00.028-05:00

While I was helping a friend last Friday

with flower centerpieces and party favors

for a rehearsal dinner she and her husband were giving.

My sweet nephew, Zach was creating his own

centerpiece made out of chocolate!

I can't believe he made it home on the train with this piece. It is like 3 feet high! I think the worse part was the drive in the car, with one Uncle that hit every bump, one crazy Aunt holding her breath that this piece didn't break and two excited pups, Bo and Riley (we have been dog sitting) happy to see him. Isn't his chocolate centerpiece amazing?!

Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Faith is the centerpiece of a connected life. It allows us to live by the grace of invisible strands. It is a belief in a wisdom superior to our own. Faith becomes a teacher in the absences of fact

~Terry Tempest Williams~

Corner View: Iconic

2011-09-13T18:08:00.001-05:00

There are many icons to choose from, but this image came to my mind first.

While I was at Northwind Perennial Farm , last year I took these photos. Isn't this a neat little building to find among the trees?

To see iconic around the world, visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Sophie for this week's topic!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Icons are our windows into the Kingdom of Heaven, transporting us beyond our brokenness and helping us focus on praying to God for enlightenment and for glorifying God

~ Cornelia Merchant~

Monday

2011-09-12T08:01:00.000-05:00

I was going through some photos this morning, when I came across this garden planter my friend, Catherine created for me last spring. The colors make my heart heart skip a beat.

Have a golden one.
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

A garden is a friend you can visit any time

Anonymous

Corner View: Indispensable

2011-09-06T22:37:00.000-05:00

On my way home last night, from visiting my friend Catherine, I was thinking of this week’s topic when I received word my friend, Gayle had passed away unexpectedly.

I pulled over on the side of the road to watch the clouds, I thought of fond memories of Gayle, the pain her family is going through and her first unborn grandchild my friend, Brittany is carrying. I also thought how life is indispensable.

To visit more views on indispensable please visit Francesca's corner. Thank you, Tania for this week’s topic

Hugs,

Joyce
xo

My Life Is My Message

Mahatma Gandhi

Labor Day

2011-09-05T00:01:00.014-05:00

Hugs,

Joyce
xo

God give me work, till my life shall end. And life, till my work is done

~Epitaph of Winifred Holtby~

Happy September And Happy Friday!

2011-09-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

Yahoo... a long weekend is ahead! Where did the summer go?

Do you have plans for the weekend?

Have a golden one!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

The temple bell stops but I still hear the sound coming out of the flowers

~Basho~

Corner View: Change

2011-08-30T17:45:00.001-05:00

The other day I started to hear that familiar sound on our roof, the early nuts falling. As I looked out the window, to take in the view this got me thinking, the Fall season was slowly creeping up on us. Without giving it a second thought, there has been some evenings and early mornings when I reached for a sweatshirt or light sweater.

It was at this moment I noticed the change in the summer flowers, they have seen their better days and even some of the leaves have already turned brown laying on the ground next to some of the acorn tops (the squirrels have already been busy).

It is no secret, Fall is my favorite season. I also noticed it is a time of year that makes me a bit melancholy, realizing that some of my painful losses have occurred during this season. Just like the seasons change, so do things in life. I’m not sure if it has to do with the older I get, but it seems changes happen more frequent, some good, some with lessons, and some I question or miss.

I even noticed relationships change. When I think Gary and I can’t get any deeper and stronger, we do. Family roles start to change from being a child yesterday, with no cares in the world, to becoming the parent thinking and worrying, making it a bit difficult at times for me. Even friendships have had their changes, some with roots planted and others with fond memories. As I stood by the window deep in thought, I noticed another change, the reflection in the window a bit older, a few more grey hairs and the start of lines that seem to have appeared overnight.

With the change of the seasons, I know one thing is certain, life will bring new changes for me to embrace and carefully unwrapped.

Are changes happening in your corner? To view more changes visit Francesca's corner

Have a golden day my friends.

Hugs,

Joyce

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty

~Maya Angelou~

Sharing

2011-08-29T09:10:00.001-05:00

I noticed over the week someone has been enjoying our garden a bit too much.

It made me chuckle to see my hosta plants go from this

to this!

I don’t mind sharing, so eat your hearts out my little furry friends.

Have a golden day!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

"Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul."

~ The Koran ~

Friday: Weekend Project

2011-08-26T00:01:00.039-05:00

The beginning of summer I saw a cream color wooden tray I liked at Pottery Barn, but the price tag was more than I wanted to spend. As I walked around the store, thinking how much do I really like the tray, I happened to see this red tray on their sale shelf.

The color was wrong, the handles weren’t the same as the cream tray I liked, but I could live with these handles and the price just right.

As I am having a conversation with myself about the tray (Do you ever do this?), I realized I had some cream color sample paints at home and sandpaper, so this little red tray came home with me.

During one of our raining weekend I tackled this more project and love the results! The double bonus was I saved $40.00!!

Have a weekend full of completed projects!

Hugs,

Joyce

Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang

~Henry Van Dyke~

Corner View: Passion

2011-08-24T00:01:00.052-05:00

I share often my loves and passions (life, family, friends, Bo, dogs, photography, food, nature, art etc...), so I will leave you with one of my simple pleasures.

A venti "Passion" unsweeten ice tea from Starbucks!

What to see more passion, visit Francesca’s corner? Thank you Dorit for this week's topic!

Have a golden one, my friends!

Hugs,

Joyce

Passion makes the world go round. Love just makes it a safer place.

~Ice T, The Ice Opinion, quoted in Reader's Digest~

Garden Love

2011-08-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Love from a friend's garden.

Nothing tastes better than the love from a friend's garden. I came home the other day from a long day at work to a bag full of love waiting for me at the garage door. Spaghetti squash has won my heart this summer. Thank you my sweet friend!

Have a golden day!
Joyce
xo

Your garden will reveal yourself
~ Henry Mitchell ~

Bubble Gum Sky

2011-08-19T00:01:00.001-05:00

I had another busy day yesterday and looking forward to the weekend. How about you?

I hope to catch a sunset or two and maybe a bonfire. No matter how many sunsets I see, they always take my breathe away.

Have a golden weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the creator

~Mahatma Gandhi~

Corner View: Tiny

2011-08-16T19:23:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the tiniest box holds the biggest surprise. I have this small bowl by our patio door, so when I'm out and about, if I find any treasures from my day in the yard or on a walk

I add them to my bowl. The fun part of collecting things for this bowl is they have to be tiny to fit inside.

To view more tiny things around the corner, stop over by Francesca's place. Thank you Nadine for this week's topic.

Have a golden day, my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

~Finding nature’s tiny miracles at our feet~

Friday's Fish Boil

2011-08-12T07:16:00.001-05:00

One of the things we did in Door County, Wisconsin was go to a fish boil in Fish Creek.

Pelletier’s is known for their fish boil

and no surprise there is always a crowd waiting to get in a table.

While the master boiler was making our meal he also was tsharing a bits and pieces of a fish boil.

This was my 2^nd fish boil, so seeing the fish this way was an adventure for me. Since I rarely eat meat, I have been trying a bit more seafood. So, when I saw the fish as it was, I gave it a try,

It was good, but loved the potatoes.

The boiler man was super nice and even invited inside of the ropes to take photos

Being near the fire I could really feel the heat

The double bonus was seeing the view from the back of the restaurant. Isn't it breathtaking?

The sunsets every evening were more exquisite than the night before!

Have a golden weekend!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Give me a fish and I eat for a day. Teach me to fish and I eat for a lifetime

~Chinese Proverbs~

Corner View: Homeplace

2011-08-09T21:46:00.001-05:00

Oops, I can't believe how fast August is going. My days have been busy, since I came back from Door County, Wisconsin and my nights I'm plain bone tired.

When I saw this week's corner view topic, homeplace. I thought how perfect, since I love getting away, I also love being home.

Our home is my haven, a place to feel secure, love, rest and to be among nature. A home that always welcomes family and friends. If you look close in the mailbox photo, you can see, even the spider has made a home. In the vintage mailbox !

During this time of year I spend a lot of time in our backyard (if the mosquitoes are not out). A place I should be weeding, but instead a place to daydream, get lost in my thoughts, hang out with Bo and Gary and to count my blessings.

To see more "homeplaces" visit Francesca's corner. A big thank you to Kristin for a topic close and dear to me.

Have a golden day my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

He makes his home where the living is best.

~Latin Proverb~

A Bowl Of Cherries

2011-08-01T00:01:00.004-05:00

Happy August 1st!!

i love cherries! What is your favorite summer fruit?

Have a golden day, my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

"If life is a bowl of cherries, then what am I doing in the pits?"

~Erma Bombeck~

Friday

2011-07-29T00:01:00.003-05:00

I came across these photos I took a couple of years ago. It has nothing to do with my long weekend

I am just a cowgirl at heart. I love a good cowboy hat, a good pair of worn boots and a bit of

turquoise.

I'm off for a couple of days, for a bit of rest and relaxation. I hope to take some photos too.

Have a golden weekend my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

A cowboy is a man with guts and a horse

~William James~

Corner View: Early

2011-07-27T00:01:00.046-05:00

This week's corner view theme is "early".

I happened to be out in the garden over the weekend and found this branch on the ground. I thought as I picked it up, it is too early for the leaves to start to fall, the nuts haven't even had a chance to grow or the leaves to change there magical color.

Speaking of early, I need my first cup of coffee!

To see more views on "early", visit Francesca's corner. Thank you Cole!

Have a golden day, my friends.

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Nothing is more beautiful than the loveliness of the woods before sunrise

~George Washington Carver~

Impromptu

2011-07-25T10:11:00.000-05:00

A couple of weekends ago the weather was so perfect, we decided to do a last minute picnic.

Nothing fancy just a quick run to the store to make sandwiches, grab some chips, fruit and root beer.

Afterwards we took a walk among the trees and a field full of dragon flies. I found that my phone camera comes in pretty handy at times for those last minute moments.

Do you have impromptu moments?

Have a golden day my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

When one has tasted it, he knows what the angels eat

~ Mark Twain~

Small But Strong

2011-07-22T10:02:00.001-05:00

While out in the garden the other day looking at all the weeds (yes, the weeds won, I decided to enjoy them), between the flowers and plants I spotted this little guy. He started from a nut that fell from a tree last fall and has managed to grow living mostly above the ground through the winter, spring and lately the heat of the summer, with no extra care, but the protection of the weeds and plants around him and the sun to give him the boost to grow.

Seeing this little guy reminded me of life at times. No matter how tough things can be at times and lonely, just when you think you are not strong enough, with a bit of determination and leaning on others you can continue to grow. Don't you love it when you find these unexpected moments? I do!

Have a golden weekend my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

You don’t have to understand. You just have to believe

~Tinker Bell~

Corner View: Seeing Through The Eyes Of A Child

2011-07-20T05:37:00.000-05:00

The closes I have for this week's topic is my furball child, Mr. Bojangles and what he sees in his yard

as he waits for either the squirrels or the chimpmunk to enter in his territory.

And this is the face I see before I sleep and when I wake up!

To view more through the eyes of a child visit Francesca's corner. THank you Beth for this week's topic!

Have a golden day my friends!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Love isn’t finding a perfect person. It’s seeing an imperfect person perfectly

~Sam Keen~

Monday and Party Favors

2011-07-18T11:08:00.002-05:00

It has been a bit longer than I anticipated being away from my little blog. I hope everyone is doing well. With the 4^th, parties around the lake and family visiting time just got away. Last week we were one of the lucky ones to be without power for a couple of days. I say lucky, because it was a reminder to me not to take my electricity and air conditioner for granted. So… here we are almost at the end of July!

One of my favorite things are giving out party favors! My friend Gregg even knows how much I love party favors, that I have given him the task someday to fulfill my party favor request. This was my favor from Catherine. It is a "Praying Hands" hosta plant and topped with a rosary to add to my collection, she started me on.

Yesterday, I had a special surprise for Gary, and our friends Catherine, John, Larry and Tim to our local brewery, called Small Town Brewery Tim, the brew master came in on a Sunday to give us a tour of his brewery and sample some of his fabulous beer. The whole tour gig started with me placing a call asking if I could buy a couple of beer bottles as party favors, when he went one step further and invited us to his brewery.

Tim met us at the elevator with a bucket of ice cold beer! It was so cool to take this old huge industrial elevator up to his brewery drinking a nice cold one (the temperature was over 90 degrees yesterday). I have never met Tim until yesterday, but was so touch by his generosity to make my friends, Gary and I feel so welcome. I also learned they a wonderful make root beer, which is Gary’s favorite. Afterwards we went to dinner at Sylce in town.

Instead of giving out a bottle of beer for a party favor I gave out one of my favorite mugs, the Krouvi from Crate and Barrel .

These mugs were one of my first purchases. Still today I love this mug. It is the best mug for cold beverages. I keep mine in the freezer, so when I want to use it, it is nice and cold. I even drink water out of mine.

Have a golden day my friends!

Hugs,

Joyce

"Let no man thirst for good beer"

~Sam Adams~

Happy July

2011-07-01T00:01:00.060-05:00

Oh, my stars I can't believe it is July already. Yesterday, I went to see my sweet dear friends Gregg and Lisa at The Backdrop. Once again they had a store full of fun and beautiful things.

AND now I have a new party hat and I am ready for the parties this weekend!

My new hat is by Glory B Hats. I just adore all of her hats, they are fun and colorful! You have to check out her website and see for yourself. Thank you Gregg and Lisa for just being YOU and for making a girl feel special!! (p.s. don't look to close I don't have a stitch of makeup!)

My favorite food for the months of July and August is ice cream! This ice cream book by Emily Luchetti happens to be on the top of my list. I can't wait to try a few more recipes.

I made strawberry ice cream a week ago to take to a friend's house for dinner. The only problem with this recipe was it was so good, we ate it before I could even think of taking a photo. It is the creamiest strawberry ice cream I have ever had and at my age I have had my share of strawberry ice cream.

I had a some strawberries leftover, so I made another batch AND made sure I got a photo before anyone reached for their spoon.

Thanks again Kathy for the wonderful book!

I will be taking a couple of days off from blogging, with the 4th right around the corner, I have a full plate. I also have family in town, because my nephew Zack is going to the French Pastry School in Chicago. I am so happy and proud of him!! Until then... wishing a golden weekend and a safe and happy 4th of July!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

There are few things so pleasant as a picnic eaten in perfect comfort

~W.Somerset Maugham~

Corner View: Box Of Tricks

2011-06-28T16:00:00.070-05:00

This week's topic it to share a box of tricks.

I don't have a box or tricks, but a box full of treasures. This box sits at my bedside and is full of family and friend's names that need an extra prayer or two.

This one could be consider a box, right? It is made and filled with things of the past from my friend Catherine.

Hmmm... maybe some of these odds and ends were once used for a box of tricks by someone.
Stop at Francesca's corner to see what others have for a box of tricks. Thank you Mlle Paradis for this week's topic!

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

A box without hinges, key, or lid, yet golden treasures inside is hid

~J.R.R. Tolkien~

A Bit Of Green In The Garden

2011-06-27T00:01:00.001-05:00

A quiet Monday, so I thought I would share some photos of the garden.

My first try at planting potatoes.

They are growing tall, thanks to all the rain we have had. I'm curious what is happening under the ground.

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

My green thumb came only as a result of the mistakes I made while learning to see things from the plant's point of view.

~H. Fred Dale~

Have A "Bee"tiful Weekend!

2011-06-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Hugs,

Joyce

The bee is more honored than other animals, not because she labors, but because she labors for others

~Saint John Chrysostom~

Corner View: A Positive Thought For Bad Moments

2011-06-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

When we are uncertain and a bit afraid

we have to learn to trust the one in charge,

so we can enjoy the beauty around us.

To see more positive thoughts, visit Francesca's corner. Thanks Ibabe for this week's great topic!

Have a golden day!

Hugs,

Joyce

All I have seen teaches me to trust the creator for all I have not seen

~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Things In Three

2011-06-17T00:01:00.004-05:00

Gary has been out of town this week on business, so as a small welcome home gift I picked up these dizzy and crazy mini eclairs.

I just realized my day also will come in 3's, breakfast with friends, lunch in the driveway with my gal pals and tonight dinner with my Gary.

Hmmm... I think I need to hit the gym 3 times this weekend!!

Have a golden weekend!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.

~Author Unknown~

Corner View: On My Wall

2011-06-15T00:01:00.104-05:00

How many hours do you have to see all the things on my wall? Just kidding. I enjoy art, so there is art on my walls

This watercolor I have admired on my friend Gregg's wall for years and last year he surprised me with it for my wall.

I also have a bit of "yesterday" on my walls. The baptismal dress was originally made for my mom by her grandmother. My sisters, nieces and I have also worn the dress for our baptismal.

This isn't my wall, but a wall of a church not far from me, but had to share. When I first saw this huge stone wall, it immediately made me smile.There was a sense of peace and hopefulness when I saw this wall. I love how all the letters and prayers are tucked in between the rocks.

Thank you my friends for your prayers, your comments, texts and emails on my friend Catherine. Her surgery went as well as could be expected, without any complications. Her friends will continue to carry her in their prayers and walk by her side, as she begins her chemo treatments in the next couple of weeks.

Would you like to see what our corner view friends have on their walls, visit Francesca's corner? Thank you Elsa for this week's topic. Oops one more thing I have had a full plate and haven't been able to visit your blogs, but will try my darnest to make a visit today.

Have a golden day!
Hugs,
Joyce
xo

Every wall is a door

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Faith

2011-06-13T00:01:00.004-05:00

As my dear friend Catherine has surgery today, I will sit quietly praying that all will be well. On April 13^th Catherine was diagnosed with an aggressive stage IV cancer. The past couple of months have been a roller coaster, as the months ahead will be.

As I have mentioned before, I am so bless with my special circle of friends. They except me, for me, ask for nothing in return, their words of encouragement are always for my best interest, so when one of my friends are struggling as Catherine, my heart fills with tears and sadness. In these moments when I feel weak and helpless, I have to stay strong in my faith, pray, and believe.

Catherine has touched many with her rays of sunshine, I hope she feels all of the love and support surrounding her during this struggling times. I hesitated to put this post up today, but I consider you my friends too. I felt if I could broaden the prayer chain it would surround her with more strength, so if you would please keep her in your thoughts and prayers I would greatly appreciate it.

Warm hugs my friends.

Joyce
xo

There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you.

~Paramahansa Yogananda~

The Weekend Ahead

2011-06-10T06:32:00.000-05:00

This little container has already been growing nicely and spilling over. My friend, Catherine would be so proud of me in the container department, I have packed them good this year. She is an avid gardener. Remember, here when she planted my butterfly garden last year? (By the way is growing beautifully.)

However, she wouldn't be happy with all the weeds that are taking over the rest of the garden.

I could give all the excuses; it is raining, it is too hot, those pesty mosquitoes are making me do the bug dance, but I hear her little voice saying, Joycee...

So, I hope to at least get in the garden for a few hours and weed. While I'm out there swooshing away the pesty mosquitoes, wiping the dew from my forehead, I will be thinking of the prize not only a weedless garden, but the wine and photography class I will be attending on Saturday night.

My sweet friends, have a golden weekend!

Hugs,
Joyce
xo

In the garden my soul is sunshine

~Anonymous~

Corner View: Destination

2011-06-07T20:55:00.001-05:00

The cards and letters in this photo have come from all corners of the world, filled with love, hope and prayers.

They were headed to one destination, tied with a pretty ribbon and hand delivered to one sweet friend of mine.

To see more destinations, visit Francesca's blog. Thanks Kelleyn for a great topic.

Have a golden day my friends!

Hugs,

Joyce

Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at it destination full of hope

~Maya Angelou~

Come On In

2011-06-06T09:38:00.002-05:00

Oops, I'm a little late posting today. I overslept this morning! I sat here trying to think what to post, so I thought I would share the "famous" small office that took me forever to paint.

The color is not much different then before. The original color was a pale green and now it is a light taupe.

A couple of my favorite pieces of this little corner is the art. The one above is a print made by my dear friend Catherine (Grunewald). I love this piece because I love angels and as you know dogs. It is hard to see, but near the printed words, "forever friend I will stay to guard you each and everyday" she sketched a stick figure of me with at the time our two dogs, Buddy and Kelly.

Another favorite print is by Jeanne Oliver. If you can't read the quote it says, "She took a deep breath and decided it was time to be brave and listen to the whispers of her heart". Jeanne has several quotes I really liked, so it was hard to just pick one.

I should back up, the reason I painted my little corner is because our good friend Steve put in a bigger door for me that leads into a storage area off my office. Now I don't have to get down on my knees and crawl into the space. I can be upright and open the door! This allowed me to take most of my cookbooks and the file cabinets into the storage area and make room for more cookbooks in my office.

I don't know why I didn't think of this before, but I added plain Kraft paper to the top of the desk and had a piece of plexiglass made to fit it perfectly.

This way I can I see some of my special things daily and rotate to see more of my favorite things. I hope you enjoyed the visit. I like using vintage flower frogs to hold our pencils, pens and scissors.

Have a golden day my friends!

Hugs,

Joyce

You can’t stay in your corner of the forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes

~Winnie the Pooh~