Spanish Moss

Goodbye

2012-02-13T17:19:00.000-08:00

I want to thank everyone for following along as I blogged about my varied interest. It has been a lot of fun, however, I am so busy with my interest in junking, Etsy shop, and flea market booth I need a break. I hope to one day revist the blog but for now I'll say goodbye. I will miss the sweet comments from MidSouth Glenda, Janet and others who left wonderful comments. May God bless your lives in very special ways. Tina

A Mixed Bag of Tricks

2012-02-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

After almost 5 years of being retired I still get asked what I do with myself everyday. Are you kidding? I don't have enough time each day to do what I like. I thought I would share what I've been up to....

Below are egg muffins I made. Make them in muffin tins - some are made with bacon and the lower calorie muffins are made with Canadian Bacon. The muffins include green onions and shredded cheese of your choice. They last for up to a week in the fridge and can be warmed in the microwave. Soooo good.

I had an awesome week couponing. I love to save money and it's like playing a game. No extreme couponing here - just saving a little at a time. At Walgreen's this week they had St. Joseph's aspirin (81 mg) buy one for $2 and get one free. They provided a register reward for $2. Two bottles of aspirin for FREE! YES!

My new favorite site is Pinterest - if you have not visited you have to go there right now. Such creative ideas for decorating, food, fashion, books, etc. I found the recipe for Crispy Cheddar Chicken. Look it up on the site because it was delicious. My sauce was missing parsley which would give that pop of color but I will make this again and again.

I have become a Flea Market Vendor at Sid's Storage and Flea Market. I am in unit 252. I open at my whim - email me and I will let you know if I will be open. I'm thinking I may be out there this weekend.

A vendor at the Flea Market has several dolls, but she has this old large doll that is awesome. The picture does not do her justice. Note her hands - you can see the veins in them.

You can see that between cooking, couponing, junking, fleaing, and running an online shop I keep pretty busy. Oh I am also doing scrapbooking, genealogy, and crafting. It is all about keeping your hands and head busy. Share with me what you have in your bag of tricks! Thanks for visiting my blog. Please leave feedback - I love hearing from my readers.

Burned Brussel Sprouts

2012-01-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. I thought I would share some thoughts and a great recipe. I have been a Type 2 Diabetic for many years. I have been on several medications that for no reason just stopped doing the job. A visit to the doctor indicated we had no other options and I was put on insulin. I did not want this - I felt I had failed but my doctor assured me that is not the case. I am adding 2 units every 3 days until my fasting blood sugar is below 125. I am currently at 11 units and my fasting blood sugar is 147 - tomorrow I add 2 more units. I am also starting to feel somewhat better. I am working so hard on my diet- I am constantly looking for new recipes. Pinterest is an incredible website for great ideas about food, fashion, home decor, etc. While visiting the website I came across a great recipe for brussel sprouts - that's right brussel sprouts. Never cooked fresh brussel sprouts so I gave it a whirl.

Wash and half about a pound of fresh brussel sprouts.

Chop about a third cup of onions and include about a teaspoon of garlic. (To taste)

Saute onions in olive oil - do not add garlic because it will burn. Add sprouts and salt and pepper to taste. It took me about 30 minutes to get that burned look - constantly turning. I added the garlic about 10 minutes before it was done.

This was soooo good - variations include adding bacon. The whole family loved the charred flavor. If you have a great vegetable recipe share with me.

Promises and Problems

2012-01-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

Readers I did not break my promise to update the blog once a week. However, the site has changed its design and I could not figure out how to upload photo's. I am not very literate when it comes to computer issues - I need VERY friendly interfaces and change throws me. I think I have this down now.

Sooooo excited, my new copy of Flea Market Style has arrived from Amazon.com. This magazine is awesome and inspirational.

The magazine has an article on using old ping pong paddles as picture/postcard holders. I scored a great set of old ping pong paddles last week.

I also thought I would share some lovely vintage cards that I acquired at an garage sale. They are sooo sweet and I plan to put them in my Etsy Shop soon.

Remember to visit my Etsy shop at :

http://spanishmoss.etsy.com

Remember to leave comments because I love feedback. Have a great 2012. See ya next week.

2012

2012-01-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year To All My Readers

I am so excited by the prospect of a new year. I made some awesome cabbage and sausage. Also made some great black eyed peas and cornbread. I am ensuring my family will be healthy, wealthy, and wise.

I promise my readers that I will update my blog at least once a week for the entire year of 2012. I have a few resolutions to share:

Move More

Eat Less

Control My Blood Sugar

Work my Etsy Shop More

Improve my Flea Market Store

Love More

Share More

Praise God More

Laugh More

Let me know what you are thinking about for the new year. I love hearing from my readers - please leave feedback if you feel inclined.

Sorry It's Been So Long

2011-12-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

I know I have been AWOL for awhile but I have been so busy. My little town has created a storage / flea market and I have rented a unit to sell my vintage items.

I sell out of my storage unit and I have twice had a show and I have been very successful. I have alot of ideas to increase business.

I am constantly working to keep the shop fresh and interesting.

I am definitely out of my comfort zone but I am having fun and have met the most awesome people. The market is just taking off and I hope we are able to continue for a long time. Keep in touch so I can update you on my flea market experience.

Autumn

2011-10-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

Dear readers, the last month has been a time of reflection and prayer. It has been such a long Summer and although it is looking like Fall the temperature does not reflect the season. However, a cold front should arrive tomorrow night bringing cooler temps. We are also in a drought that may take a very long time to rectify.

I am busy thinking about Christmas and the holiday season. I can't say I am feeling inspired but with the cooler weather on the way perhaps it will also improve my creativity. I continue to struggle with Type 2 diabetes that is a constant in my life. Mr. Moss has about 2 years till retirement and he is very anxious for that time to arrive. I just love the autumnal colors that surround me. I am thankful for all the gifts I have been given. Let me know what is happening with you this Fall.

Fall, Friends, And Fieldtrips

2011-10-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautiful Fall day - Autumnal colors peeking out from the banks of the Cane River and the wooded areas surrounding Southern plantations. My sister-in-law, a new friend from Texas, and another new friend from Boston, Mass set out to take the Natchitoches Fall Pilgrimage (Country and City Tour).

Flower lined walkways led us up stairs that ended on large porches hugging old plantation homes that survived war, crop failure, and changing times.

The girls took it all in and we shared a lot of history in one day.

A history lesson in our country's beginnings - Our Louisiana was ruled by the French and then the Spanish. A walk back in time including the creative endeavors of primitive artists and writers.

We celebrated with the Creole people at St. Augustine Catholic Church - a one of a kind people and culture that has an intricate and compelling history.

What is better than a wonderful day with friends, sensing what it was like to live in another time and another place. I give thanks!

New Business Announcement

2011-09-19T14:07:00.000-07:00

I am announcing the opening of my son's internet business. Andrew has a Master's Degree in Writing and Linguistics. His internet business offers business and personal writing services. http://www.customwriter.net/ offers services in the area of editing, content review, and consultation services. Andrew is a very talented writer and professional who can be reached at thecustomwriter@gmail.com

If you know of anyone who needs something written or reviewed please recommend Andrew.

Cast Iron Rules

2011-09-17T19:28:00.000-07:00

There are awesome events in a woman's life - marriage, childbirth - buying your first home. Well after 30 years of marriage Mr. Moss and I added another great memory. This brings a tear to my eye. We purchased 3 new pieces of cast iron - Large Skillet - 12"
Medium Skillet - 10" and a great round 10" griddle. We added these to our other cast iron. Look how beautiful. There is no other cookware - especially for the Southern cook.

Mr. Moss coated all three pieces with lard and placed in a

225 degree oven for about 4 hours. They came out seasoned perfectly. I can't wait to put them to use.

Let me know what you're up to - anybody got a recipe to share.

It's Fall Y'All!

Busy - Busy - Busy

2011-09-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

It is ridiculous how many projects I have going on at one time. I am making my first quilt - I have a huge photography project in the works, and I am working on Christmas projects. I am also couponing, junking, and re-working my Etsy shop. I really have too many irons in the fire. But you know me, I never stop Junking. Goodwill has been awesome lately. I found this gorgeous outdoor vase that was in excellent condition. Very heavy and awesome looking. This would have looked great as is but I wanted to use a hammered enamel.

The vase turned out beautiful. I paid $3.99. This would sell for a lot more in a gardening center. I love the re-purpose movement.

Check out this Hammered Color by Rust-Oleum. The color is just beautiful.

I found this great cherub piece for the garden that was in a light blue. Minor cracks and beautiful looking. Makes a lovely little bird bath. I don't know why anyone would give him up. I took him home for $3.99 and gave him a great coat of paint.

Look how gorgeous he turned out. I encourage all of my readers to look at everything with an eye toward up-cycling.

Let me know what projects you are working on. I really am interested.

The ABC's of Spanish Moss

2011-08-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some of myself with the readers of my blog. I thought I would do an ABC kind of format. I am not including my love for God and family because that is UNDERSTOOD. These are just things I really like and make me tick.

A- atchafalaya houseboat (pbs)-asparagus-avocados-azaleas

B- blogging-bread pudding- bayous-blue cheese dressing-boudin

C- crafting-coke zero-couponing-collecting-christmas-cornbread

D- deltiology (the study and collecting of post cards)-dogs-diners

E- elvis-etouffe-etsy-eggplant (fried with powdered sugar)

F-farms-file'-fudge-fresh snap beans-football-fishing-front porches

G- gardening-gumbo-gulf of mexico-grillades-gravy-grandparents

H- hot tamales-hush puppies-hydrangeas-heirlooms-hank williams

I-iced tea-ice(crushed)-iron lace

J- junking-james lee burke-jambalaya-joie de vivre (joy of life)

K- king cake-kool-aid-katydids

L- Louisiana- lily of the valley- live oaks-lost bread

M- meat pies-magnolias-mardi gras-mason jars-mockingbirds

N- new orleans saints-nora jones-neighbors

O- oysters - okra-oatmeal cookies-oaks

P- photography-pralines-puzzles-pecans-poboys-pecan pie-porches

Q- quilts

R- reading-ribeyes-roux-red beans and rice-rain-rocking chairs

S- spanish moss-speech therapists-swamps-sugarcane-supper

T- tennessee williams-tabasco-teachers-tea cakes-tire swings

U- unrelenting sunshine-

V- vintage motor courts - vegetable soup (homemade)

W- wine-watermelon-willie morris-wisteria-winter afternoons

X-(?)

Y-yams-yellow squash-yard sales-

Z-zydeco

Let me know what makes you tick!

Thank you Joni Mitchell

2011-08-14T22:15:00.000-07:00

I have been keenly aware of clouds as of late. We are in a terrible drought - large trees are dying as well as lawns. I took these pictures over several days. To let you know, they never produced rain. It made me think of one of my favorite songs so I thought I would share some great song lyrics by Joni Mitchell. They are so calming because I feel like I am in such an odd place in life.

Rows and flows of angel hair

And ice cream castles in the air

And feather canyons everywhere

I've looked at clouds that way

But now they only block the sun

They rain and snow on everyone

So many things I would have done

But clouds got in my way

I've looked at clouds from both sides now

From up and down, and still somehow

It's cloud illusions I recall

I really don't know clouds at all.

Moons and Junes and Ferris Wheels

The dizzy dancing way you feel

As ev'ry fairy tale comes real

I've looked at love that way.

But now it's just another show

You leave 'em laughing when you go

And if you care, don't let them know

Don't give yourself away.

I've looked at love from both sides now

From give and take, and still somehow

It's love's illusions I recall

I really don't know love at all

Tears and fears and feeling proud

To say "I love you" right out loud

Dreams and schemes and circus crowds

I've looked at life that way

But now old friends are acting strange

They shake their heads, they say I've changed.

Well something's lost, but something's gained

In living every day.

I've looked at life from both sides now

From win and lose and still somehow

It's life's illusions I recall

I really don't know life at all

I've looked at life from both sides now

From up and down, and still somehow

It's life's illusions I recall

I really don't know life at all.

Goodwill Hunting

2011-08-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

First I would like to apologize for being AWOL from my blog for several weeks. I think the dog days of Summer are making me lazy. However the one thing that I never slack on is junking. In one week I found some amazing items for my Etsy shop but mostly for my home.

This is an incredible large original acrylic painting with a gorgeous frame. The colors in this painting are so vibrant. My cost $6.99. I know, I know - I SCORED.

The same day I found this 24 X 34 " professionally framed picture of New Orleans. The frame is lovely and the colors are muted and the picture evokes a kind of Southern Gothic feel. Total cost of very large professionally framed art - $9.99. I know - I know - it was almost too easy.

That same week Mr. Moss and I went to Goodwill together and we spotted this "righteous" side table. Love the shape of the table and the legs are awesome. The table was in great structural condition but the faux wood grain looked pretty rough. Yes I know -I know- left the thrift store with table and dropped $6.99.

I pulled out the semi-gloss black spray paint and went to town. I love how it turned out. It really pops in my room and I love to save an object by upcycling. Share with me what you're up to during these VERY hot days. I'll just keep waiting for New Orleans Saints football. Who Dat?

One more note to the readers of my blog, for some reason the comments I leave on your blog won't take. Not sure what the problem is but I am working on it - I love all your fabulous blogs.

Natchitoches Louisiana

2011-07-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

I continue to tinker with my new camera (Fuji) and my new Adobe Photoshop Elements 9. I have not been able to spend nearly enough time with either. Over the last couple of weeks I have taken a few photo's of my hometown. I thought I would share them with my readers. Enjoy!

A Little Bit of This And That

2011-07-16T22:04:00.000-07:00

I have been busy as usual jumping from one project to the next. It's like since I retired several years ago I am in a race to do everything I ever wanted to do. I told you earlier that I bought some green tomatoes at Anderson's Farms. Fried green tomatoes...... Oh Yea!

Mr. Moss and I agreed that these were the best fried green tomatoes we have ever had.... it may not be The Whistle Stop Cafe but its darn close. Crunchy, salty, and tart. Awww! I love the South!

I have continued to enjoy photography and I am working on a photo project of Natchitoches Parish. More on that later.

I love to see what catches my eye - sometimes it surprises me.

I found this old curio cabinet at Goodwill for $6.99. It was pretty shabby and in overall bad shape. I took it completely apart and did some sanding.

After clean-up and painting I have a lovely curio cabinet with a glass door. It looks lovely in my living room for a VERY reasonable price.

Let me know what projects you are working on this Summer. I love comments and love to hear from my readers.

The Last of the Old Sawmill Towns

2011-07-10T22:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Mr. Moss and I drove to the village of Fisher, LA. It was the last of the old sawmill towns built during the golden age of lumbering. Fisher is located in Western Louisiana. The original Old Mill Store houses one of the largest antique malls I have ever visited - can we say Heaven!

This is the original opera house where meetings were held, and later talents such as Hank Williams performed.

These are the original floors and chairs in the auditorium.

This is the original interdenominational church that the company provided. The 4-L Company (Louisiana Long Leaf Lumber) did not build a shanty town as most lumber companies did. Fisher was laid out for its employees to feel like they lived in a town. The village had a church, a depot, hospital, hotel, and schools. The company also employed 2 physicians to supply the medical needs of its employees.

The village of Fisher continues to have a VERY small working post office. The post office is on the National Register of Historical Sites.

This is the ticket booth at the old opera house.

Fisher was the fist large sawmill in Sabine parish. It was considered one of the most important sawmill towns on the Kansas City Southern Railroad. KCS presented Fisher with the old depot.

In May, 1979 a historical marker was unveiled. Fisher historic district was entered in the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.

This is definitely worth the trip - it's a visit back in time and Mr. Moss and I had an awesome visit to Fisher, LA.

Southern Vegetables

2011-07-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we visited Anderson's Farms. Their motto is "Food Less Travelled". My grandmother would have called this a "really big truck patch". I love vegetables and fruit right out of the ground. Love this time of year.

There were beautiful sweet onions.

A wagon of beautiful sweet watermelons.

I so appreciated the use of the term 'maters'. I love Louisiana.

Awesome bushel of purple hull peas. This is 'garden heaven'.

All I have to say is sweet corn on the cob -

I inadvertently forgot to take pictures of my green tomatoes. Tomorrow I will have fried green tomatoes. I use a buttermilk wash and drench in corn meal and pan fry in canola oil using a cast iron skillet. There is a huge debate between flour or corn meal. I am definitely on the corn meal side.

Pearl of Wisdom: Never, ever let someone else clean your cast iron skillet - strangers can't be trusted with this life time investment.

I've Missed All Of You

2011-06-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

I have missed all of you so much. Let me "recite the litany of my sorrows." First my lovely Cannon camera died - my first and only digital camera. I then did some research and decided to buy a Fujifilm Finepix 2940S. LOVE the camera, however the software that came with it was AWFUL. In desperation, I bought Adobe Photoshop Elements 9. Wow, it is a great program but is pretty complicated for a computer novice like me (a nice way of saying I'm old). Tonight was the first night I actually was able to upload a picture I took from my camera.

I have missed blogging about Father's Day and my niece Alycia's beautiful wedding. I really missed blogging but I am thrilled I am able to wish you a wonderful Fourth of July weekend. Let me know what I have missed.

Southern Cuisine

2011-06-14T22:26:00.000-07:00

Natchitoches, LA is known for Meat Pies and Lasyones is the greatest place to dine. Steeped in tradition this little kitchen offers up a little of everything.

The meat pies, dirty rice, and gravy are so awesome. The crust of the meat pies are light and flaky with a wonderful seasoned meat inside and deep fried for a lovely golden brown.

Mr. Moss loves the lunch specials - today he ordered hamburger steak and onions - rice and gravy and pickled beets.

As if this was not enough, his lunch also included red beans and cornbread sticks.

The food here is awesome and is worth your visit. It's all about real and rustic Louisiana offerings.

Mr. Moss and I have made this place a regular and I appreciate the Louisiana cuisine they offer - traditional and tasty!

Bridal Shower Saturday

2011-06-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely day - I was one of the hostess' for my husband's niece (my niece also) bridal shower. I repurposed an old tray with chalkboard paint and used 2 old curtain hooks as easels. It turned out well and looked cute on the table. I arranged the little roses as well.

I can not tell you how wonderful the food on this table tasted. It was light and simple for a very hot day. This included the greatest punch of ginger ale and fruit juice with a frozen fruit ring.

The cake was delicious - it was decorated to look like the shower invitation. Great job Peggy! I made the fruit plate with cream cheese fruit dip. Becky and Kim made a beautiful vegetable dish and Debbie made the MOST incredible cucumber sandwiches I have ever eaten. I will get the recipe and share with you - I can not tell you how wonderful they were. Jeanie, whose home we had the shower served the most incredible chicken salad with craisins and almonds. Once again, when I get the recipe I will share with my readers.

Alycia received so many lovely gifts and it's always fun to watch her open her presents. Of course we pass each gift to each person to look at up close.

Alycia looked so beautiful - Brian is a very lucky man. It was so fun to share this day with her. She also shared with us her wedding veil that was redesigned from her mother's veil. (No pictures until the wedding)

Alycia gave each hostess the cutest zippered bags with a fleur-de-lis on the front with great little fun items inside. This was a lovely day, spent with lovely people, on a wonderful occasion. I can't wait for the wedding next weekend.

Cane River Country - Natchitoches Parish Lousiana

2011-06-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I have not posted sooner but I have been really busy cleaning my office/shop - I mean REALLY organizing and preparing for other upcoming events. Last Sunday Mr. Moss and I went riding around Cane River Country and thought you would enjoy some of my pictures. I love the history, people, and beauty of this area.

The most beautiful, old majestic trees.

Lovely old church structures.

Guided tours of Cherokee Plantation.

View of one of the many plantation homes. Most of the homes surviving the Civil War were because the Yankees believed that Yellow Fever had infected the homes.

The historic Cane River National Heritage Trail.

Melrose, LA is the home of Melrose Plantation.

Cemeteries are a part of Cane River Country.

Ally's lined with live oak trees lead to beautiful plantation homes.

Cane River continues to be a farm community - lots of corn, soybeans, and cotton now and then. Pecan orchards abound. I hope my readers can see the beauty of this land through my photo's. It is my heritage.

The Rib King

2011-05-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

As of today, Mr. Moss insists that everyone refer to him as "The Rib King". I have to tell my readers that these were THE best

ribs I have ever tasted. He smoked them for many hours and used just the perfect marinade and dry rub. We left the ribs in the fridge overnight so they could really marinate.

These are my baked beans that I cooked for about 4 hours. They were very good but I continue to tinker with the recipe. Soo good.

I also made homemade cole slaw that was really good and was the perfect compliment to the ribs.

I was going to take a picture of my plate but I had already started eating when I realized I forgot to take a picture. The ribs you see are St. Louis cut ribs. They are new to us. These ribs when cut correctly are rectangular- shaped which makes them easier to cook and eat.

This is a close up of one of the ribs - look how perfect the pink smoke line surrounds the rib. The bark of the rib is perfect - very juicy and extremely tender. What an awesome meal and yes, Mr. Moss IS the Rib King. We give thanks to all who have served this country, including my late father and father-in-law. I hope all my readers had a lovely day.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-28T23:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend. Thanks all who have sacrificed for this wonderful country.

Mr. Moss and I went to the Green Market this morning.

This is not a large event but very nice and makes you appreciate small town living.

It is a little early for most vegetables but I was pleased with the selection. There were some green tomatoes - I love fried green tomatoes. We didn't buy green tomatoes today - maybe next week.

Nice little red potatoes. Love them too.

I love fresh Honey - this family has an aviary in the northern part of the parish.

We bought the Spring honey. The owner showed us the Fall honey that was very dark and the Spring honey that was very light. Same bees - different outcome.

We didn't buy string beans today but I want to buy some next weekend. Make some fresh beans with small red potatoes. Yum!

We bought some beautiful tomatoes. Nothing better than home grown tomatoes. I love this time of year.

This is what happens to fresh tomatoes at my house. These sandwiches were as tasty as they looked.

Lovely day at the green market.

We left the Green Market and went to the Fleur-de-lis Crafts show.

It was very popular and there was a huge turnout.

I saw one booth that was completely about repurposing and one that indicated that they had used repurposed material in their creations.

The event was held at our awesome Events Center.

The Event Center has lovely flowers. Overall, it was such a nice day to spend with my husband.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend.

You Have To Ask Why

2011-05-25T22:50:00.000-07:00

Some days you have to question some things. My son found this feather in our backyard. 11" long - a condor?

My husband takes his lunch each day - he works on the railroad. He has discovered that he loves Nutella, banana, and Miracle Whip sandwiches. You have to question this.

I bought an old gold angel that was sooo popular in the 1990's. I thought she would look awesome in the flowerbed as a small birdbath. When I cleaned her up I expected a Terra Cotta color under the gold. Nope - it is as pink as pink as can be. Huh?

Looking for a great recipe for stuffed mushrooms on the Internet. Cream cheese recipe without bread crumbs. I have to question why I follow recipes that are not Southern in nature. I have to ask why these did not taste good.

Let me know what you ask "Why" about.

Wordless Weekend

2011-05-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

Beauty

2011-05-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

Majestic Southern Beauty - She can tell stories about the old South. A Mint Julep and a Magnolia Blossom. Remembrance.

A Lost Red Rose - So beautiful, So red, a bud at its side. Nature continues.

Lovely blue, clusters of floral flakes - colors fading - falling to the ground as the days wane.

Hope, like flowers, is very fragile. Treat both with tenderness.

Right As Rain

2011-05-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

I bought my Flea Market Gardens magazine this week. What a wonderful addition. I just seem to read it over and over. This edition features great flea market finds that serve as planters. Also includes beautiful flowers and plants.

Note my thrift store pot for planting and my old

ceramic shoe.

Another thrift store pot - yes that is an old fondue fork

stuck in the middle.

Look how beautiful my hydrangea is blooming - the

best year yet.

Look at the entire big plant. It appears to be happy

where it is living.

I use my old blue chair to showcase another

great plant.

While most of Louisiana is flooding - my little part

of this earth is in a drought. Yesterday I prayed for rain.

Thank you Lord - the skies turned black and we received

a nice thunderstorm and a sizable rain.

Look at this wet concrete - it means my

grass and plants have been watered by

Mother Nature. Share with me what's

going on in your spot of the world.

How I Make Refrigerator Folders

2011-05-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

These are so fun to make - I made one last night and I thought I would share with my readers. I bought some decorative file folders -
because my project will be in the kitchen the folders are laminated for durability and water resistance. This folder has 2"expandable storage.

These are my favorite magnetic buttons - just peel the paper and stick the foam adhesive where you want the magnet.

I went through my craft stuff and found a nice fabric flower and a butterfly and thought the green would look nice on the folder. What is so fun about this project is that you can use your imagination- decorate the folder with as little or as much as you like.

Plug up the glue gun and let it get hot.

Turn the folder over and place a magnet on each corner and one in the center.

Glue your chosen items to the folder.

Place your folder on the refrigerator - fill with recipes, menus, coupons, stamps, etc. These make awesome gifts - choose colors that reflect kitchen colors or personalize with name or initials. The possibilities are endless. I hope you enjoyed my project - share a photo if you choose to make one. Enjoy!

Shogun and Brunch

2011-05-08T23:49:00.000-07:00

This has been one of my favorite Mother's Day weekends. Saturday, me, Mr. Moss and my son Drew met my youngest son Jon to celebrate his birthday and Mother's Day. We went shopping and had an awesome dinning experience at Sho Gun Japanese Restaurant. The salad dressing was the best I have ever had. My boys were awesome and provided me with a great day.

Sunday, my sister-in-law Donna and I decided to treat my mother-in-law and her mother to brunch at her house. This turned out to be one of the best get togethers we have ever had. Donna set an awesome table with vintage Homer Laughlin China and Fostoria Crystal handed down from her mother. The flowers were sent from another daughter, Barbara. They made a lovely centerpiece.

I brought a fruit tray with cream cheese dipping sauce.

My Brother - in-law Brian made the most delicious Quiche. He's quite the cook.

I forgot to take a picture of the homemade blueberry muffins that came out of the oven hot and we topped them with real butter. Now wonder they were all gone.

We had very cold champagne to make wonderful Mimosa's.

We used 1/3 champagne to 2/3 orange juice. Usually a mimosa is 50/50 but we are not that brave - these tasted great! We added some extra orange slices.

We also had a great cup of coffee with our meal.

The roses that my mother-in-law received from her daughter made the most lovely centerpiece and the color was beautiful.

This was the best Mother's Day ever - thanks Donna for setting a beautiful vintage table. We will do this again. I hope all of you had as lovely a weekend as we all experienced.

Couponing

2011-05-05T23:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know about any of you but the grocery store is becoming a very expensive venture. Mr. Moss and I have not always been the best at saving at the store, however he does a better job than I do. After seeing on the news how much various food items were increasing I got a little motivated - I later read where Proctor and Gamble would be increasing their price on hundreds of items. NO I am not becoming an extreme couponer. I couponed in the mid to late eighties so it's nothing new. Here's the plan..... I made a notebook.........

I added a pocket organizer with scissors, a calculator, post-it notes,

paper clips, markers, and a pen. I just wanted this notebook to be a place to store my sales from each week and match coupons to the sales.

I bought baseball card sleeves with some regular clear inserts - these are perfect for coupons. I bought some tabbed pages and made several different categories - i.e. Cleaning supplies - Medicine- Can Goods - Frozen, etc. (This would be specific to your needs.)

NO - I do not take this notebook into the stores. I just simply use it to organize all my coupons and sales information. I live in a small town and none of the stores double coupons so I must do the best I can. I shop at 6 specific stores - Wal-Mart, Brookshires, Rite-Aid, Wal-Greens, Dollar General, and Family Dollar.

I have a small house and no pantry so I cleared 3 shelves in the hall closet to store my overload.

Just to let you know I have saved about $100 since using coupons, sales, and store card discounts. For example I saw Rite-Aid had Colgate Total Toothpaste (my brand) on sale for $1.99. I had a .75 coupon - Wellness card gave me an additional .25. Total cost .99 cents.... Winning!

A Little Bit of This and That

2011-05-02T23:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not updated in a while but I have had several irons in the fire and I need to share some of what's happening. I bought this old window at Goodwill - 2 panes and the other half is wood. I want to hang it on chains on the patio - possibly paint the wood portion with chalkboard paint. Give me some feedback - what would you do with it? The window is a large rectangle.

We had a severe storm with straight line winds that did a lot of damage. My mother -in -law had a lot of damage with a large portion of a sycamore tree on her deck.

Her boat deck for the barge was blown two yards over and landed in a tree. There was alot of damage in our area.

I was looking through The Shreveport Times and zoomed in on a great article. It's all about ETSY and how it offers online storefronts. Please make sure to visit my shop at:

http://:spanishmoss.etsy.com

My Louisiana

2011-04-25T22:41:00.000-07:00

I have had a lovely 2 weekends and I thought I would share some pictures of what has been under my Louisiana sky. I hope you all had a lovely Easter holiday.

Cane Syrup is indicative of Louisiana. The taste of Cane Syrup takes me right back to my childhood.

Rural objects and Tabasco- Mason jars.

If you live in Louisiana, crawfish are everywhere -

I love this store front.

Red River with a strong wind. Louisiana is a state for

great fishing.

These roses are at my aunt's backyard - beautiful flowers at my

aunt's - great garden Pat.

Pat also has some tomato plants. Home grown tomato's.

How southern - how wonderful.

Last weekend we ate barbeque at

Grayson's. I love their chipped beef sandwiches on homemade buns.

This is the beautiful hardwood that smokes the meat for the great BBQ at Grayson's.

What's under your sky? Please share......

Easter

2011-04-23T20:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

Jesus Has Risen

We are Forgiven

Heavenly Reuse

2011-04-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have been passing this ceramic angel by for weeks at Goodwill. Not old - just a piece of junk with chips. No one wanted him. Soooo I didn't want him either. I thought he was overpriced at a $1.99.

As I passed this piece the last time I thought if you tell others to reuse - then I have to reuse. This angel would not let me go!

I spray painted this piece with Krylon - Satin - Jade. I added some

gold spray paint to show a double texture. The effect looks like a lovely patina. Weathering will further this effect.

I am so glad I selected this little angel. It has been a wonderful experience to reuse this little ceramic piece that if not rescued probably would have been eventually thrown away.

His paint job turned out great and now I am very excited to reuse other items I find during my "junking".

This lovely angel now lives under the base of my Dogwood Tree. He looks awesome under my tree. Share with me what you have reused lately. It is a very gratifying experience.

Sunday Sowing

2011-04-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

WOW! I bought several plants to begin the Spring season. Now I have to pot all these and place them around the yard.

I just love Spring and always get carried away when

I visit the gardening center.

I have a lot of work to do. I have some plants in planters I have had for years - however I now only reuse pots and planters that I purchase at Thrift stores, garage sale, etc.

I have been planting for almost 2 hours.... I am soooo tired!

Now that this batch is planted I have to decide where to place all of these planters. I still need a few more but today I am exhausted. Let me know how your Spring planting is going.....

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-07T19:04:00.000-07:00

                   "I love Spring anywhere, but if I could choose
                        I would  always greet it in a garden."
                                          Ruth Stout

These are some small red roses that are growing

in my rocking chair garden.

This old pink rosebush was planted by my daddy

about 40 years ago. It continues to produce some

gorgeous roses.

I cut these roses this afternoon and placed them in a

Mason jar with water. They are sitting on my dinning room

table -nothing feels more cozy than fresh flowers in a simple jar.

"Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf in Spring-time.

Martin Luther

A Repurposed Life

2011-04-04T18:27:00.000-07:00

I told you I found an old metal cabinet in an old shed. After hours of work I was pleased with the result. I did not want to change the color. I found some inexpensive (cheap) contact paper and put on the shelves. I did not have a china cabinet and I thought this would be a great repurpose project.

I rearranged some of my old finds and was pleased how they looked in this vignette.

I still cannot believe I got 2 sets of china in this old cabinet. I really feel like I lucked out on this one. Thanks Mr. Moss for all the help.

I am currently collecting Taylor, Smith, and Taylor china from the early 1960's. This is the Ever Yours 'Boutonniere" pattern. I have been collecting several years and I am about 75% finished with a place setting for 6 including all the serving pieces.

This is my mother's china that I inherited. Daddy sent her a 12 piece set with all the serving pieces when he was stationed in Japan.

If you notice I have also become fascinated with vintage clear glass salt and pepper shakers. Oh no - another collection!

Everything Old Is New Again

2011-04-03T22:59:00.000-07:00

I found a great old metal green cabinet in an old shed. I saw potential and Mr. Moss agreed to help recover this lost cause.

The piece had a base and 2 cabinets with glass that raise up and inward. Lots of rust, tar, and other yuck.

Mr. Moss and I spent the entire Sunday afternoon - scrapping, brushing, and peeling years of dirt from this old cabinet.

Tomorrow I will show how all our hand work has paid off. It now sits in my dinning room and I am currently filling it with vintage china and other vintage items. This was a lot of hard work. Share with me some of your weekend projects.

A Weekend Pictorial

2011-03-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend I enjoyed lots of different activities. I thought I would present a pictorial of what was happening under my Louisiana sky. I saw dogs...............

I saw beautiful flowers..............

I saw a beautiful baby.........

I saw an elegant wedding gown....

I tasted awesome food.........

I watched an awesome home cook in action......

And last but not least I saw lovely dogwood blossoms under my Louisiana sky....

Tell me about your weekend.

Old Hollywood Is Gone

2011-03-23T22:50:00.000-07:00

As an only child I grew up watching movies... all movies. I grew up on great old movies of every kind. I loved Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor. I took my movies very seriously. Elizabeth Taylor was the last of old Hollywood..... I will miss my childhood memories of Elizabeth Taylor- I truly thought when she was young she was one of the most beautiful women in the world.

This is my FAVORITE picture of Elizabeth Taylor. Look at that figure and that amazing dress. SOOOO pretty.

Sooo beautiful.

Lovely Old Hollywood.

I don't want to discuss her marriages, morality, etc. Just giving a tribute to her beauty and the starlets of old Hollywood.

My favorite role of Elizabeth Taylor was Maggie The Cat in Tennessee Williams' 'Cat On A Hot Tin Roof'. This is a tribute to my youthful love of Old Hollywood and a sincere goodbye to a beautiful legend. Thanks Rae for watching those old movies with me. (Sorry about Rock- David was right)

Blush and Bashful Bridal Affair

2011-03-20T23:18:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law, Donna and I went to the Blush and Bashful Bridal Affair sponsored by the Natchitoches Events Center. Donna's daughter and our niece, Alycia will be getting married

June 18, 2011. She lives in Chicago and will be getting married in Natchitoches, LA. We went for ideas and to get us in the wedding mood.

Natchitoches is a great wedding destination.

There were lots of cakes.......

Beautiful floral arrangements - this one is a lot like Alycia has chosen.

Beautiful candle holders for tablescapes.....

Lovely chargers with great dishes....

Alycia says she wants red shoes - they were on display at the bridal extravaganza.......

Reception will be at the Jefferson Street Townhouse......

Azaleas are blooming today.....

This is a view of the back of the Bed and Breakfast where the reception will be held...... We are so excited for Alycia and Brian. Weddings are such a happy event. The rehearsal supper will be a great crawfish boil..... Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler ( Let The Good Times Roll) !

Lagniappe

2011-03-16T21:15:00.000-07:00

Lapniappe means a little something extra - I thought my readers would like for me to share a few little things I love - just a few little extra's.The above picture is of a church in my town. I LOVE beautiful church architecture.

I inherited this awesome retro lamp - I LOVE the wood and turquoise. It now sits on my office desk.

I changed my front door decoration from Mardi Gras to Spring flowers. I NEVER buy new artificial flowers for outdoors. In my quest to repurpose I realized that thrift stores have great old flowers. Reuse, Repurpose !

I LOVE the entrance of Spring and in my area one of the first burst of color is the Japanese magnolia. Lovely purple and white.

My favorite Mexican restaurant in Natchitoches, LA is El Nopal. I LOVE their authentic Mexican food.

I LOVE guacomole. Soooo fresh!

I don't know if any of you would LOVE a compass for life's decisions - I know I would love to have a compass to help direct me through some of the more complicated decisions.

Awesome Stuffed Bell Peppers

2011-03-14T23:09:00.000-07:00

My family loves stuffed bell pepper - Get 3-4 green bell peppers - cut off the top and clean out seeds.

Saute a medium onion in a skillet.

Add about a pound of lean hamburger meat and season as you wish - I used Slap Ya Mama (Cajun Seasoning)

Salt and Pepper as desired.

Brown all and add minced garlic.

I would usually use white rice but being a Type 2 diabetic Brown and Wild Rice is a better alternative. Uncle Ben's Ready Whole Grain Medley is an awesome remedy - microwave for 90 seconds and it is done. Add to hamburger mixture and stuff bell peppers.

Stuff Peppers - really pushing stuffing tightly into peppers. Bake in a 350 degree oven for about an hour or until bell pepper is soft to the touch.

Such awesome flavor - this is great served with cream style corn.

The aroma and taste is awesome! Enjoy!

Tip Toe Through The Tulips

2011-03-12T22:39:00.000-08:00

Every Spring my lovely little town of Natchitoches, Louisiana fills our downtown area with tulips of every color. These are just a few photo's I took today. Enjoy the lovely colors and the beginning of Spring !

Fat Tuesday / Ash Wednesday

2011-03-08T19:01:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras is over! I love the colors of Carnival - Purple, Green, and Gold.

My front door - time to put out some pretty spring flowers.

This is one of the floats in the parade - Krewe of Dionysos.

Ash Wednesday always seems to usher in Spring in Louisiana -

Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler

(Let The Good Times Roll)

Stuffed Pork Loin

2011-03-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

Pork Loin is one of my favorite meats. I usually do a sweet orange glaze . Michael and I found a new recipe and as usual made it our own. Enjoy!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Thaw and drain a small frozen box (10oz) of chopped spinach.

Saute1/2 cup of chopped onions and 1 clove of garlic chopped finely in about 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the spinach. Add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of bread crumbs.

Cut a pork loin ( about 2 pounds) lengthwise. Season the whole loin with your favorite seasoning - I use Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning. Stuff with spinach mixture and

and secure with kitchen twine. Set leftover spinach to the side.

In a small skillet place several pats of butter and saute your choice of mushrooms ( I used whole white because that is what was in the kitchen). Salt and Pepper and add some red wine (optional). Saute until mushrooms begin softening - add the leftover spinach.

Place the pork in a shallow roaster and bake at 350 uncovered for one hour. Add the mushroom mixture in and around the pork loin and cook another hour covered. When the pork temperature reaches between 160 and 170 it's done. Let the meat sit for awhile and cut into medallions.

I served the pork loin with green beans. I am always looking for my favorite beans and always "doctor" canned beans. I love Allen's Sunshine Cut Italian Green Beans. I always add Beef Broth and chopped onions and pepper. However.....

my new obsession is Glory Seasoned Country Style String Beans with potatoes. They are seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices. These are AWESOME and you don't have to do anything but heat them. These are full of flavor and I served these tonight with my spinach stuffed pork loin. Soooo good......

Let me know what's cookin' in your kitchen -

Bon Appetite!

All On A Monday

2011-02-28T22:58:00.000-08:00

Michael and I woke up very early and drove my baby boy (22 years old) to the oral surgeon over 70 miles away to have 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed. There were some difficulties with a stubborn root on the lower right side. We were prepared for the worst but Jon has done very well today and tonight. I can not stand to see my child in pain. Great oral surgeon - he wants to see him again on Friday to make sure all is well. Cross your fingers tomorrow goes as well.

To make my life even more awesome the 2011 edition of the magazine Flea Market Style is on the shelves as we speak. This is the second edition and is the most awesome magazine EVER! I bought mine at Wal-Mart but the magazine is at major book stores, Target, Wal-Mart, etc. If you can't find it, let me know and I will try to help you out. This magazine is for the hardcore junker.

I thought you would like to know what's on my Kindle. My favorite author is James Lee Burke. Due to my father's illness I am so behind on my reading list. So far this book is as good as the best Burke has to offer. If you like crime novels - read James Lee Burke and start with Black Cherry Blues.
Let me know what's happening on your Monday.........

Stormy Weather

2011-02-24T21:54:00.000-08:00

It's not IF the storm comes-

It's when.

Always be prepared.

Etsy Finds

2011-02-22T22:48:00.000-08:00

Etsy has the most awesome vintage sellers. I went window shopping today and wanted to share some of the things that caught my eye. The above picture is of 3 apothecary jars filled with the most awesome things. We can all put these items in jars. Don't they look great. Check out: http://therhubarbstudio.etsy.com/

Love this old rusty skeleton key in http://shiniesahoy.etsy.com/ shop. If it is rusty

I'm sooo there.

I LOVE these vintage aqua linen curtains. I want these in my kitchen window. They would match the blue in my vintage dishes.Check them out at http://vintagedrawer.etsy.com/

This is a 1950's pink clock from http://retrorerun.etsy.com/ How awesome is this? This would be a real conversation piece. Soo pretty!

This book brings back lots of memories - I would like to frame one to make me smile. Check it out at http://lapetitetoo.etsy.com/

I love this pink 1950's prom dress. Isn't it awesome... check it out at http://thevintagestudio.etsy.com/

Etsy has so many vintage shops. Please check out as many shops as you can. Don't forget my shop at http://spanishmoss.etsy.com/

Photo Sunday

2011-02-20T22:47:00.000-08:00

Pine Trees are a background to my life.

I saw all this on this Sunday.

I love to see land being prepared to plant - possibly corn, soybeans, or cotton.

A pasture with black and white cows.

My husband grilled chicken and Down Home Sausage. It was so good to eat BBQ in February. The weather was in the 70's with a March wind blowing.

Beautiful Scout herded balls, frisbees, and Ace.

A Lab's tail is a dangerous weapon - otter like and expressive. What an awesome Sunday. What did you do Sunday?

The Pioneer Woman

2011-02-18T19:46:00.000-08:00

I just finished the above book. "The Pioneer Woman - Black Heels and Tractor Wheels". It is a sweet little book - Ree Drummond has a quick-wit and a nice writing style. The story is also documented very well on her VERY popular blog - Check it out:

www.thepioneerwoman.com

The subheading of the book is "Plowing Through Life In The Country". It is a simple love story of a city girl who falls in love with a cowboy - who she only refers to as Marlboro Man.

Ree has also written a cookbook - "The Pioneer Woman Cookbook. I have not read this but Ree has several recipes on her blog. She is a busy, creative person and following her blog is a real joy.

Happy Blueberry/Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Not a big fan - I try to show my husband everyday respect and love. Just another Hallmark day! Now let's talk blueberries. Our friends David and Teresa Parish brought by a huge bag of blueberries. SOOOOO appreciated!

The last time they brought us blueberries my son made an awesome blueberry bread pudding. I was looking at some new recipes and came across one that looks pretty good in Emeril Lagasse's "Louisiana Real and Rustic"

How does a Blueberry-Peach Cobbler sound? Yummy!

Thanks David and Teresa for the awesome blueberries and good visit. Hey readers - let me know one of your great recipes for blueberries.

I Got It At Goodwill

2011-02-11T21:36:00.000-08:00

Hey Junkers - I found some great finds at Goodwill today. This little birdbath is solid metal and weighs a ton. Can't wait to find the perfect place in the yard. I LOVE these kind of finds.

I found this great vintage Master Key for my Etsy Shop. Nice old piece when you need that perfect pitch. Great for a music room.

Great old embroidery hoops that are 5" X 9" ovals. I think I will keep these . I have a great Goodwill in my area. Hey readers, let me know what treasures you have found at your local Thrift Store.

Reading is Fundamental

2011-02-09T21:50:00.000-08:00

I have just finished reading "The Help" and I give it 5 stars. Do yourself a favor and read this wonderful novel set in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960's. Thanks Pat for giving me this book for Christmas. I give this novel 5 stars!

I received the new Kindle for Christmas - I have read several biographies and I am in love with this little device. It is awesome!

Can you see the size of this print? My 52 year old eyes can not believe how easy the large print is to read. I can even make it bigger if I like. I can read my Kindle laying flat in the bed, on my side, you name it. I LOVE MY KINDLE!

I am starting my next book - The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels and Tractor Wheels by Ree Drummond. When I have finished the book I will do a review. Let me know what's on your

reading list......

30 Years of Marriage

2011-02-07T20:47:00.000-08:00

Today, Michael and I have been married 30 years. That's a lot of

living. We have raised 2 sons, several dogs and created a bond that is forever. A spectrum of experiences which constitutes life. Thank you Michael for all that you have given me and the boys. I love you! Happy Anniversary........

Super Bowl Sunday

2011-02-06T23:07:00.000-08:00

Well - Another Super Bowl under our belt. I really didn't have a

dog in this hunt but I was leaning toward the Green Bay Packers.

Nothing could equal last year when the New Orleans Saints won

the Super Bowl. However, I watch every Super Bowl. The National Anthem was terrible and the half time show was not my cup of tea. This was not one of my favorite Super Bowls but still a good football game. I am sorry the season is over. My family will be looking forward to next season!

The Pack is Back!

Ice Ice Baby!

2011-02-04T19:43:00.000-08:00

We were suppose to get some snow - no snow

just rain that turned into ice. I was so

scared we would have a power outage but I

think we are going to be okay. Between you

and me I hate this weather. Eating too much,

sleeping too much. How are my readers handling

this awful weather? Let me hear from you.

You've heard of a "hot seat" - this is not one! LOL!

My Favorite Hot Chocolate

2011-02-03T20:30:00.000-08:00

When it is this cold there is only one thing to do - make Hot Chocolate. As you can see I like a little cocoa with my marshmallows. LOL! Below is my favorite recipe - I hope you enjoy. This recipe is just decadent.

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa

Dash of Salt

1/3 cup hot water

4 cups of Heavy Whipping Cream

3/4 t. vanilla

Mix sugar, cocoa and salt in a saucepan; stir in water. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture boils; boil and stir for 2 minutes. Stir in whipping cream and heat. Do Not Boil. Add 3/4 teaspoon vanilla and mix well. Serve in mugs with marshmallows.

Really Cold!!!!!

2011-02-02T22:09:00.000-08:00

I took this picture today. A frozen fountain in the middle of the day - Are you kidding? It has really been cold and the forecast is calling for ice and snow mix for Friday. I live in Louisiana where it is hot and humid - where the less clothes and shoes you can wear is preferable. I feel ashamed since my niece lives in Chicago and I received pictures today outside her apartment. OMG! I could never make it in that cold - as I have gotten older I hate the cold weather. All I want to do is sleep and eat - not a good combination. However, I have read a lot of books. I am currently reading " The Help" by Kathryn Stockett. I can't put this novel down. I hope that darn groundhog was right and Spring is just around the corner.

An Old Road - A New Journey

2011-02-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I'm back. It has been a very stressful time. My father passed away on Jan. 16, 2011 at 83 years old. Being an only child I have been busy taking care of his final business. During this time I have had plenty of time to think and I am refreshed. I am ready to start a new year with a good blog. I want to share my creative side with my readers. I will continue with my junking and put extra effort into my Etsy Shop -
http://www.spanishmoss.etsy.com
I have one request - please let me hear from you. Reader comments are so rewarding. Just click on comments and make a free account. Wish me happy living, loving, junking, and blogging. I thought I would share a picture of some of my dad's vintage fishing lures. They look like little pieces of art.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-16T22:03:00.001-08:00

ALL HEARTS COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS.........

I am sorry I have not updated the blog recently. I have
been very busy with my ailing father and now my
mother-in-law has fallen and broken her sternum. She
has been in severe pain and is 80 years old. Michael
and I are overwhelmed by the responsibility of 2 aging
parents. Both are in physical rehab -I am sure many
of my readers have been through the same experiences.
I will update this blog after the first of the year with a
new look and direction. Please bookmark my blog.. good
things coming. Merry Christmas, Tina

Noel

2010-11-28T19:10:00.000-08:00

I put up the Christmas tree last night.... I am trying to
change my decorations a little at a time. I found this great
metal tray at Goodwill. I love the Victorian motif . Happy
children and dogs!

In the past I had twig wreaths decorated for the season
on my front door. Last year I found this great metal
hanger with a basket-like bottom. I now fill the bottom with
Spanish Moss and change out seasonal flowers and decorative
items. I found some old plastic flowers with holly berries. I
decided to spray paint them blue, light red, and white. I
really like it but my son feels it looks like Easter. Please
give me your opinion..... Should I add something else?

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T22:20:00.000-08:00

I didn't take any pictures this year. I just wanted to say
Happy Thanksgiving! I am thankful for my family and
all the things that I love. My father is very ill and is
currently in the hospital but will soon go back to rehab.
Taking care of him has been my priority. With Thanksgiving
behind us, Christmas shopping is the next item on the list to
complete. I am doing mostly Internet shopping and have
purchased a lot from ETSY. I hope all of you had a lovely
day and were blessed with good food and great fellowship.

Family Feast

2010-11-15T20:34:00.001-08:00

We had a family pot luck meal at my brother and sister in-laws

great house on Sunday. The meal was so good because no one

knew how it was going to all come together. Well, it was an

awesome meal with a great pasta salad made by our niece

Megan.

My sister-in-law made some great stuffed potatoes. They
were wonderful.

My brother-in-law made a great pone of cornbread over
his outdoor fireplace.

This is a picture of my plate - I made the asparagus with
boiled eggs. How good does this look?

We ate the most incredible pot of mustard greens cooked
over an open fire in a cast iron pot.

I made a pot of Allen green beans (Italian cut) with
potatoes and beef broth. Yummy!

The only meat was a smokey ham that was just delicious.
I missed the photo, but dessert was homemade apple pie
with vanilla ice cream. A perfect end to a perfect meal.

Color and Texture

2010-11-01T17:51:00.000-07:00

Dear readers - I refuse to go into detail what the last week
has been like. It has been a blur.... I feel like Autumn has
come and I haven't even stopped long enough to look and
listen to the beauty of the season. Enjoy the photo's I took
today. The colors and texture are incredible. Thanks for
your support and your comments. I love to hear from you.

Why I Love Junque

2010-10-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

I have always loved old things.... I once had a small

collection of old wine glasses - nothing matched. The guy

who worked at the place I used to buy most of the

glasses once asked "Do you like to drink alone?" LOL!

When the country was crazed about malls - I balked. My

kids always wanted to go to the mall and I took them - I

hated everything about a mall and still do - I won! They

are a dying breed. It makes me sad that this country

doesn't produce things anymore. A family member

mentioned that she went shopping this week and nothing

was interesting - it all looked alike. That is why the

handmade/vintage movement is huge. I love the thrift

store, estate sales, flea markets, etc. I love "picking" that

great find. I have a lot to learn but I am constantly doing

my homework and I feel I am developing a better eye

every day. Let me know about your love of the junk -

Where do you like to "pick"?

Visit my Etsy shop to view some of my junk -

http://spanishmoss.etsy.com

Do You Know Me

2010-10-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

I read lots of blogs that participate in various "get to know

you" type exercises. I thought I would share with my

readers some likes and dislikes. I would like for my readers

to share with me some of their likes and dislikes. These are

in no particular order...

Things I love: God, Family, Country, Elvis, Hamburgers,

Chocolate, Rainy Days, Pillow Top Mattresses, The 1970's,

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Louisiana, Everything

Southern, Sleep, Naps, Clean Sheets, Junk, Etsy, Rice and

Gravy, Pralines, Christmas, Christmas Gifts, Gardens, Trees,

Lillies, Roses, Bearded Collies, Border Collies, Labs, the

smell of fresh mowed grass, Gumbo, Etouffee, New Orleans,

James Lee Burke, Cornbread, Cane Syrup, Lewis Grizzard,

Raw Oyster, Fried Oysters, Homemade Vegetable Soup,

Florida Beaches, Old Motel Postcards, Louisiana Postcards,

Speech Therapists, Teachers, Spanish Moss, Office Supplies,

Books,Purses, New Orleans Saints, Movies,Vintage, Cookbooks,

Jambalaya, Football, Robert Frost, Wuthering Heights, Gone

With The Wind ........... More Likes On Another Post

Things I Really Dislike: Water Chestnuts, Rude People, Bra's,

Pantyhose, Dresses, Horror Movies, Mosquitoes, Snakes,

High Heels, Poison Ivy, Diabetes, Humidity, Armadillo's,

House Trailers, School Food, Ironing Boards, Dust, Chalkboards,

Egomaniacs, Snobs, Liberal Lefties, Fake People, Hypocrites,

Litter, Texting, Splinters, Dental Work, Dry Skin, Housework,

Fanny Packs, Sardines, Men Wearing Sandals, McMansions,

Real Estate Prices, Chapped Lips, Oliver Stone, Joy Behar,

MSNBC, Cursing, Modern Art, Politicians, Sunburns, Mice,

Skunks, Sage, Boring People, Rosemary, Cookie Cutter Houses,

......... More Dislikes On Another Post

Mango Salsa

2010-10-08T18:27:00.001-07:00

I thought I would share with my readers an excellent
recipe that I made yesterday. Trying to watch calories and
blood sugar I have eaten boneless, skinless chicken breast
in every way imaginable. I have eaten millions of them - I
am not exaggerating - MILLIONS I tell you! I made a
lovely mango salsa and served over a baked chicken breast.
Recipe below:

MANGO SALSA

1 ripe mango, peeled, cored, and diced

1 medium tomato, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced

2 Tbs. mint, finely chopped

1/4 to 1/2 salt

(I am currently having a love affair with Kosher salt)

In medium bowl, combine mango salsa ingredients.

Cover and refrigerate over night.

This would also be great on pork and turkey.

This was a fragrant, colorful addition to my 1,000,001

boneless, skinless chicken breast. The entire family loved

this flavor. Next experiment, Mango chutney!

52

2010-10-06T21:45:00.001-07:00

I quietly turned 52 today. I don't know how it happened.
My oldest son grilled supper for me today and my youngest
son came in from out of town to spend the night. I am
thankful for all I have and give thanks for the time I have
been given. The weather has been beautiful but we are
praying for rain because it is so dry. Thank everyone who
reads the blog and follows my story. I am blessed.

Autumn Leaves

2010-09-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day that the temperatures have felt like

Fall and the humidity was low. It is amazing how the

change in season contributes to my mood. The heat and

dry weather has been long and it is time for a change. I

know other parts of the country have started to experience

the change in seasons. The change has always been a multi-

sensory experience - happiness and reflection. Share with

me your feelings about autumn and the change of seasons.

Welcome Again

2010-09-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

I want to take a moment to welcome new and

returning readers to my blog. I love hearing from

my readers so feel free to leave a comment. I want to

also invite everyone to my Etsy shop full of all things

vintage.

http://www.spanishmoss.etsy.com/

If you like horror movies follow my son's

new blog at http://projectionoffear.blogspot.com/

My son is an excellent writer and I think

you will enjoy his take on the horror genre.

Our beloved New Orleans Saints are currently

2-0. We love football season - now if the weather

will just cooperate and turn cooler. Fall begins

on Thursday and you would never know it in my

little corner of the world.

Junk Funk

2010-09-19T21:10:00.001-07:00

I am having a little pity party. I think it is called "Blog

Envy". I have no one who loves the thrill of the find - junk

find that is. The History Channel currently has a show

called American Pickers which is a group who look for the

great junk in this country. I read blog, after blog about the

people that I relate to but I don't have that support where

I live. This love of junk has just not taken off here or maybe

my network is too small. Junking is not country or Victorian,

it can be French country, chic French, retro - it can be

whatever you wish. Each piece in your home should be

carefully chosen to your taste. Don't have a "magazine"

home - unless it is Flea Market Style home. Thanks for

listening to " the litany of my sorrows". If you are having

the same issues please let me know how you feel......

Curb Appeal

2010-09-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Today I was riding around in my pink cadillac (actually I
drive a Trail Blazer). Took a few pictures of homes that
I felt had a nice entrance way..... Nice curb appeal. I hope
you enjoy my ride! Love the vintage appeal!!!!!

Goodbye Summer

2010-09-06T18:40:00.001-07:00

It was a wonderful Labor Day Weekend. Our niece, Alycia
from Chicago became engaged to Brian on Friday night.
Congrats Alycia and Brian! My wonderful husband Michael
celebrated his birthday on Sunday - #57. His sister and
brother-in-law treated us to a lovely meal. I am turning
up the heat on making Christmas gifts, working in my Etsy
shop, and doing some serious junking.

Other parts of the country celebrate the end of summer
during Labor Day but it remains so hot in Louisiana it is
hard to think in those terms.

These pictures were taken this weekend indicating how

lush it remains outside. I have noted a subtle change in the

light which is always the first sign of Fall. The light and the

start of football season.

I love this weeping willow under my Louisiana sky!

The Junk Revolution

2010-08-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Tina and I am a junker. It started slowly
and now I am hardcore. Lately I have been so busy
with other responsibilities my crafts have been put on the
back burner - but I am back to junking. To fully understand
the junk revolution please visit the fabulous Ki Nassauer at
http://junkcamp.blogspot.com
She is a leader in converting junk to treasure. The motto
of the revolution is : Rescue/Reuse/Re imagine/Inspire.
I found this old wooden frame that is ornate and very
heavy - I had to have it! Not sure how to reuse but I am
thinking about framing some vintage sheet music.

Some nice spray paint and this piece is gorgeous.

Another junk find is this old wooden and metal bird cage -

I am still not sure how I will use it. I think I will hang it

with a birds nest and brightly colored eggs in the nest. I'll

let you know.

I certainly brightened it up with some spray paint. I will

distress it little later.

During one of my junking trips I discovered this old wooden

architectural wall hanging. I thought it was too blue so I

added some gold paint.

I am still not pleased - I will probably add a third color for

more contrast. This is a lovely piece.

Below is a commercial item that I had to have - it was a

yucky green so I painted it blue and have plans to distress it.

Doesn't it give you a lot of ideas how to upcycle old faucets or

other industrial objects. This old faucets even have a great

patina.

Just remember spray paint is every junker's friend. And

by the way, I use other colors beside blue and gold. I

just happened to pick those colors for these projects.

"The old woman I shall become will be quite different

from the woman I am now. Another I is beginning."

Amandine Dupin (1804-1876)

French Novelist

Random Thoughts

2010-08-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to blog for several days but I have

been so busy with my 83 year old father who continues to

live alone. I found him very ill 2 days ago and spent over

6 hours in the emergency room. An injection and some

antibiotics were prescribed. He has needed a lot of attention

and we have been discussing future living arrangements.

For any of my readers who are dealing with elderly parents,

I understand your difficulties.

On a lighter note, I am already working on Christmas gifts

and trying to work on my Etsy shop - thinking about Fall

and the upcoming holidays. We have gotten a little rain

which has made the heat bearable. Summer is waning.

I long for Fall, Football, and fresh crisp air.

Confessional

2010-08-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

I think it is time to share with my readers one of

my long held secrets. I need for you to promise

not to think less of me after this confession. I LOVE
reality television. Yes, I have been addicted to

several reality shows for many, many years and some

relative new ones. My television is always on the news

(I'm a news hound) and consider myself VERY

culturally literate. However, my guilty pleasure is

reality TV. Not all reality but some. I will list in order

my favorites :

SURVIVOR

BIG BROTHER

BACHELOR/BACHELORETTE

PROJECT RUNWAY

AMAZING RACE

NEXT FOOD NETWORK STAR

HGTV DESIGN STAR

I consider Survivor the greatest game/reality show. I think I have seen ever episode. I love the game play . Now - I would like my readers to share one of their guilty pleasures. Come on..... you can do it!

Mama's Oyster House

2010-08-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

Today is my oldest sons birthday. Michael and I took him
to eat at one of our favorite restaurants. We went to
Mama's Oyster House located at 608 Front Street in
Natchitoches, LA. I love the atmosphere and of course
we are immediately greeted on this hot day with..........

a wonderful glass of cold sweet tea............................................

The menu here is awesome and if you love seafood this

restaurant is for you!

My husband ordered the fried catfish with fries and

hush puppies. He also loved the tarter sauce!

I really enjoyed the fried shrimp green salad with blue

cheese dressing. Very fresh with tasty cherry tomatoes

and plenty of fried shrimp. YUMMY!

And last but not least my son ordered the combination

plate which included stuffed crabs, fried oysters and fried

shrimp. The service was good and I hope if you travel to

Natchitoches, LA give Mama's a visit.

Rearview Mirrors

2010-08-03T22:07:00.001-07:00

Mac Davis once had a song with the line " happiness is

Lubbock Texas in the rear view mirror". I have not

attended to the blog like I should. The heat in Louisiana

is oppressive. I want to see Summer in the rear view

mirror. I want to see doubt in the rear view mirror. I want

to see lack of rain in the rear view mirror. What do you

want to see in the rear view mirror? Please share......

Hot - Hot- Hot

2010-07-27T21:19:00.000-07:00

I have been a bad blogger - things have been hot and dry

but we have been fortunate to have some rain the last 2

days. Oh course it is not nearly enough but we'll take what

we can get. I have been helping my father with daily

activities and helping my son adjust to moving back home

while waiting for a job.

I watched Crazy Heart and LOVED the performance by

Jeff Bridges. The movie moves rather slow but watching

Jeff Bridges act was awesome. I love these kind of movies.

Movies like : The Apostle, Slingblade, Secondhand Lion,

Rushmore..... But my favorite movies of all time are

Godfather 1 and 2.

Husbear is reading "Coming Back Stronger" by Drew

Brees- he's getting ready for the New Orleans Saints to

start training camp. Football season is just around the

corner. Who Dat!

I have really not read a lot of novels lately because I read

so much in cyberspace - however, I love Southern literature

and Lee Smith is fantastic. I am currently finishing -Family

Linen - do yourself a favor and read it right now. AWESOME!
Just catching my readers up on what's been going on

during these REALLY hot days. Searching for some

creativity and wishing for Fall! What are ya'll doing in this

hot weather?

One Fine Day

2010-07-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

A quick talk about today. I awoke to 4 beautiful LA

postcards that arrived in the mail today. A perfect

stranger contacted me and said she wanted me to have

them because I would appreciate them. Thanks Susan from

Alabama. There are a lot of good people in the world.

I then went on a joyride with my sister -in-law Donna

and my niece Alycia. We looked at properties for sale and

did some window shopping in the historic district. When

we got home I learned that a family member who had

surgery had good news. Some days are just fine!

A Showing and A Feast

2010-07-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

What a great night! Our niece Alycia has just arrived
home from 3 weeks in Istanbul, Turkey. She lives in
Chicago and is home visiting her parents. We were
invited to "a showing" of pictures - along with a sampling
of Turkish food, products, and souvenirs. Our Alycia is
AWESOME.

Her mom and dad grilled sausage and chicken - yum! We
had green salad, deviled eggs, and a vegetable tray.

While Alycia was in Istanbul she took a cooking class and
presented 2 fabulous Turkish dishes. The first was an
eggplant stuffed with a tomato relish. OMG - soooo
good!

My favorite dish was a fried zucchini cake with Feta
cheese and other ingredients. I can not tell you how
delicious this was. Amazing flavors..........

Now drizzle some garlic yogurt over the cakes. I have
found a new love. Alycia, your cooking class really paid
off.

We also had fresh green beans cooked to perfection -
Southern Style. This was the most incredible meal. I
will remember this night for a long time.

Alycia brought home some Turkish products and we even
tasted some Turkish candy.

She also had a lovely display of Turkish dishes - one of
which I was lucky enough to bring home.

At the end of the night we had "a showing" of all her pictures
on the big screen television and learned a lot about Istanbul.
She was a great tour guide. Some nights come close to
perfection..............

Summer Stir Fry

2010-07-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share one of my favorite new items
to eat. I literally have made this Stir-Fry with pork,
chicken, steak, and shrimp. Tonight I used crawfish
and I think it was my favorite. I have not found a
frozen stir-fry I care for until Wal-Mart produced
this Asparagus Stir-Fry. It is a Great Value product.
This stir-fry is awesome just put a little extra virgin
olive oil in a skillet and add your choice of meat or
seafood. Cook for awhile and add entire bag of stir-fry -
season as you like. (I use salt and pepper with a touch
of Cajun Seasoning) I cook the vegetables a LOT longer
than the bag recommends because I don't like hard
veggies.

The Stir-Fry contains asparagus, broccoli, carrots, yellow
squash, cauliflower, red peppers, and sugar snap peas.

The crawfish were excellent in this dish. This is a great
Summer dish because it is super easy and gets you out
of the kitchen quickly. We have been eating this once a
week. Add Soy Sauce if you like. Bon Appetite!

(Music by Corinne Bailey Rae - Put Your Records On)

Brick and Mortar

2010-07-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

I love to follow dirt roads when I don't know where they

will lead. I love to take pictures of dirt roads. However,

when it comes to the road less taken I am not so brave.

I have a dream to open a small vintage/repurpose shop

but know in my heart that where I live it will not be

successful. The vintage - repurposing - movement does

not seem to have taken off here. Feeling so isolated from

the blogs and shops I visit daily. Knowing how much I

have enjoyed my internet shop, I can not fathom how

much I would enjoy a brick and mortar shop. Let me

know what you think about a B&M shop. I also want

to thank all my loyal followers - you all ROCK!

(The song is "Lullaby" by Sia - aka Sia Kate Isabelle

Furler. She is an Australian soulful-jazz type singer.)

Dog Days of Summer

2010-07-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry folks that I have not blogged in about a week but

things are slow and hot. I have been junking and found

a few good finds for my repurposing. It has rained all

around but my house has received so little rain my yard

is dying. I am having to water every other day. It is

going to be a long hot, dry summer unless we get some

tropical action.

Creativity is wavering and I tend to not want to get out

in the heat. Lots of changes happening - change is not

my friend but it is greeting me and mine everyday.

Inspiration is difficult to find. New diabetic medications

are working great and I have become skilled at

injecting. My new diet is in place and I am doing very

well. Little to no carbohydrates. Very difficult some days

but I manage.I look forward to Fall and cooler weather. I

have a long time to wait. Share with me some of your

summer inspirations.

The music is from the awesome Billie

Holiday - Summertime.