Country Living Grandma

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and Happy memories ushering in the new year!!!

4th Week of Advent

2011-12-19T17:00:00.000-08:00

This week we light again the candles of hope, love, and joy, and this fourth Sunday the PURPLE candle, the candle of peace. Christ is the Prince of peace, come to reconcile us with God and others. Christ helps us to see that peace is possible.

In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, "Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." But Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?" And the angel said to her in reply, "The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God." Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.... Luke 1:26-38

Let us pray, God of power and mercy, open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that hinder us from receiving Christ with joy, so that we may share his wisdom and become one with him when he comes in glory.

6 days til Christmas............Wow!

2011-12-19T16:55:00.001-08:00

I am so excited. We had a Christmas gathering yesterday with family. We had so much fun!!!

19 days til Christmas

2011-12-04T21:48:00.001-08:00

Second Sunday of Advent

2011-12-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

Second Sunday of Advent....Mark 1:1-8

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, "See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,'" John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, "The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

....and more Christmas!

2011-12-03T21:53:00.000-08:00

More Christmas

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My Christmas Tree

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My Christmas village

2011-12-03T21:40:00.001-08:00

2 Flea Market Finds at Amazing Prices!

2011-11-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

Snoopy plays, Oh Christmas Tree, The Theme from A Charlie Brown Christmas, and Tis the Season to be Jolly. He moves and the multicolored Christmas lights blink as the music plays. All for a whooping price of $1.00

I love this country wreath. I plan to add some berry pinks to it and wrap it with gingham ribbon. For a mere price of 4.00. Just 5.00 for these two things that made my day fun!

51 days til Christmas...

2011-11-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

More Christmas...........

2011-10-29T12:31:00.001-07:00

Beginnings of Christmas!

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My Swag for the Front door!

2011-10-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite because it looks just like I want it to look. I already had the skate and I wanted to do something different with it this year. It was a job making that bow and the bow for the pinecone wreath but it was so much fun!

I made a pinecone wreath today!

2011-10-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

This is Christmas Craft weekend!
Project 1. Pinecone Wreath 2. Swag for my door to rest my ices skate on 3. Crochet booties for Holly.

Meet Holly my new Christmas Bear!

2011-10-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

She was a priceless find! I found a Christmas dress for her today and a headband. Now I am crocheting some booties for her.

My starter tree, lol!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-10-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, those that know me know my love for Christmas, the joy I get out of decorating and the fun I have leading up to the Big Day. I put this sweet little tree out to hold me over until big daddy makes his appearance, Thanksgiving Nite after dinner! LOL!

There is a Blessing in Giving!!

2011-10-17T09:43:00.001-07:00

Okay I know its early for some to be talking about Christmas but its never to early to learn about giving. There are so many takers in the world, some people need to learn to give more. It is so true what the Lord says about the blessing in giving. I have encountered some real angels on earth in my lifetime. That's why I love the holidays so much because its about the spirit of giving. So while you are out shopping early for Christmas and thinking about the things you hope to receive this holiday season let us not forget to GIVE. Give this holiday season, its not always about taking. It is more blessed to give than receive. We can give of our time, it doesn't always have to be about material things. The easiest thing and the best thing to give that is free of charge is LOVE.

Visit us @ The Joy of Christmas on Facebook! Click Here!

Christmastime is near!!!

2011-10-17T09:41:00.001-07:00

RIP Vesta Williams

2011-10-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

There are just some things in life that are hard to wrap your brain around. Life is just so precious and none of us know when our last day here will be and all I am saying is love one another, show appreciation, and take nothing for granted. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends close to Ms. Vesta Williams! I am shocked and truly saddened by the news of her death last Thursday. She was laid to rest today. She is only gone physically she is forever in the hearts of those who loved her and will live on thru memory and her music. I take joy in knowing for all believers to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord and Vesta gave me the impression that she loved the Lord. I will miss you Vesta. I know we never knew each other personally but I loved Vesta. She wont be forgotten. I am glad she got to live and see dreams a reality.

A.C. Moore Trip for project supplies

2011-10-04T14:26:00.001-07:00

The Crosses I plan on making shine for Christmas, the wreath is the beginning of the makings of my advent wreath, and the Mason jars are going to be for my gift in a jar project. Pictures will be posted when I am done.

I made a Christmas Tree Skirt

2011-10-04T14:13:00.001-07:00

I still have to add two rows of lace to the opening of the tree shirt that goes around the trunk of the tree.

My QVC finds last month....

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81 days and counting!!!!!!!!!!

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CHRISTMAS.........

My favorite time of year. I have started shopping for my crafts and busy making things. Over the past few days I have freshened up areas in my home with a coat of paint and I plan on doing some more of this tomorrow. I put a coat of semi gloss white paint on my radiator cover in the living room, washed my lace sheers, and had my drapes dry cleaned.

Qvc has had a few nice 24hr shopping segments so I jumped on getting a few things early. I will soon be taking a trip to peddlers village with my cousin. I am hoping to pick up some holiday goodies there as well. There is one thing I have learned over the years. Time passes so quickly. Yes, it is so much fun the leading up to Christmas but you will be surprised how fast weeks fly by and the next thing you know it the holiday is already here. This is the reason that QVC's biggest shopping months for Christmas are actually September and October. Come November things have already slowed up a quite bit. So I am getting an early start because there are a few things I want to get.

Each Day is a Blessing, How are you spending your days?

2011-10-04T13:43:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon!!!! September is a memory, hello 4th day of October! Make the best of the blessing of each new day given. Choose Rest over stress, choose forgiveness over pride, choose love or anger, choose to be grateful rather than disgruntled. Choose to go on instead of giving up and choose Jesus over everything! Cherish life. Make the best of the time God is allowing you to have. Plant seeds of of love so your legacy will be one remembered with a smile. None of us are promised tomorrow. How will you be remembered? How you live your life now determines how others will remember you when your gone. Will they have more positive things to say about you or negative? Make every moment count. The most valuable gift you can give to others is yourself. Share joy and laughter, comfort and listen, encourage and uplift. Give while you can. Teach by example. Leave a legacy of Faith.

Fall Breezes in on the 23rd of September

2011-09-13T14:40:00.001-07:00

The weather is already changing a bit slowly ushering in the season of Fall which is due to make its grand entrance in 10 days. I love the weather during the fall months, not too hot, not too cold, almost perfect sweater weather. In keeping with my love of decorating I joined the ranks of other decorators who have put up their fall decor. Fall is just a prelude to decorating for my favorite time of year. The time when I get to let my creativity shine in decking my halls for the Winter Holidays. If it were up to me I could go straight from September to November, lol!

My fall decor never gets a chance to really take root in my home because no sooner than it's put up it's time to take it down in a few short weeks making way for Holiday Splendor. I actually put up my fall stuff right before Labor day this year trying to give it a fair chance to be seen in my home since my Christmas decor dominates my home for well over 9 weeks verses the mere 4 weeks my fall stuff gets a chance to shine. The countdown is definitely on for I officially start assembling my Christmas displays October 31st every year, sometimes a wee bit sooner if the feeling hits me to hard. I have some new ideas this year already. I want to try and do something a little different this year. I don't know how much different it will be in degree but I plan on coming up with some new treats for the eyes of my family. Let me be the first to say 10 days early, Happy Fall Yall!!!!!!!!

I Love God!

2011-08-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

I know this is not the platform I normally use to talk about the Lord. I have a separate blog for this. What I usually post here is something in regards to my love of country, decorating and/ or family activities. Yes, I love country living it seems to be a part of my DNA to the point where I desire to live in the country and design my home in a such like theme. Country is me, just an old fashioned girl who loves country flavor, but then there is another side of me as well that loves other things besides country living and my family. I love Jesus as well. In Essence this blog shows you some of the events that take place in my life and if I did not include the one who is the utmost important to me it would be like only revealing a part of who I am.

Yesterday the East Coast experience the effect of a 5.9 earthquake that originated in Virginia but could be felt in many different states, ours included. It was an event that caught many off guard especially those who are not in areas prone to them happening on a regular. Many were freaked out and shaken for some time afterwards just not knowing what could follow. When things finally calmed down and we all began to try and get some rest later that evening it was hard not to think about God, and the fact that he sees and knows the things that are going on in the world that he abhors, and also the signs that the Holy Scriptures gives in regards to when the return of His Son, our Savior Christ Jesus, will be.

I can’t speak for other houses but then I am sure we are not alone in this great big world in proclaiming that we are doing our best to serve a loving and living God. None of us profess to be perfect other than in Christ Jesus but we strive to love others and treat people like we would want them to treat us. We believe in the Son of God; that he died for our sins and that we are saved by grace through Faith in him. We know that we alone can do nothing to erase the stain of sin that we each carry and that it is only the blood of Jesus that has the power to do so. It is in him we are forgiven when we trust what the Father sent him to do on our behalf.

It is so easy to get busy with the things of this world and even with others we share our lives with here but we should never forget the one who loves us most, the one that while we were yet sinners died for us and those who receive what he did on our behalf he has given the power to become sons of God. We believe in the power of his resurrection and that he will return to get us when he comes back to bring judgment upon the world. I say this to encourage all believers to never give up and for those who might not know the Lord to seek him while he may be found because time is drawing near, tomorrow is not promised to anyone. On a closing note I just want to post a few scriptures found in God's Holy Word, may the bless you and encourage you to think and/or seek him if you don’t already know our Wonderful and Mighty God and happen to be reading this. Peace and Blessings unto you all.

JOHN 1:1-4-In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

JOHN 3:16-17- For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

ROMANS 3:22-25- Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

ROMANS 10:9-11- That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

ROMANS 5:8-12,18-19- But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

EPHESIANS 2:8-9- For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Parting is such sweet sorrow.....

2011-07-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

Just came home Friday after spending two weeks at the shore. What a blessing it was to get a way for a while and take a break from the norm. I thank God for providing for us to get away and for the safety and fun we all had. It was blazing here in my hometown but it was quite nice and comfortable near the water. We had a few hot days but it was mostly comfortable warm sunny days. Our 7 year old niece made the trek with us this year for our 25th Anniversary to the Wildwoods. We went down in style this year. My husband rented a Lincoln Navigator with driver in tow and we almost didn't know how to act, LOL!!! But all in all it was a fantastic blessed two weeks of family time.

Happy Palm Sunday

2011-04-17T11:54:00.001-07:00

On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. And Jesus, when he had found a young colt, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Zion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on a donkey's colt...John 12:12-15

Valerie Parr Hill on QVC March 8th 2-4 pm

2011-03-07T12:58:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, March 8th from 2-4pm eastern. A showcase of 2 hours
of Heartfelt Home filled gorgeous Spring accents, delightful Easter decorations and beautiful new hydrangea inspired bedding. All you need to open your home to Spring.

Happy Birthday Grandson!!

2011-02-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

Saying goodbye to February means saying goodbye to the month in which my first grandchild was born. I can't believe my little grandson turned two years old on the 20th with his spoiled self. Last Sunday we celebrated his birthday. We had a blessed time. I thank God for it and the joy he had sharing it with the other children and family. His theme last year was "Diego" from Nick Jr. This year's theme was by Disney Pixar's "Cars". I had so much fun shopping for all his cars stuff and the cake my daughter ordered from Oteri's Bakery was over the top delicious as was the food judging by my empty cupboards when every one left my house, LOL! My grandson was blessed with so much on his birthday I know he thought it was Christmas again just minus the tree and the decorations.

Valentine's Day Tablescapes

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16 days til my grandson turns TWO!!!

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I love organizing parties. I thank God I have the pleasure of helping put together my grandson's second birthday party. The theme for his First birthday was Diego from Nick Jr. The theme for his second birthday is Cars. I can't wait till his birthday gets here to, Lord willing, witness the joy on his face in celebrating his second birthday.

Happy 73rd Birthday Mom!

2011-01-25T05:56:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe we just celebrated my Mother in Law's life this past Saturday the 22nd and today is her birthday. She would have been 73, hey Mom is there cake and butter pecan icecream in Heaven? Lol! Happy Birthday Mom!

Until we meet again Mom......

2011-01-25T05:30:00.000-08:00

Saturday, January 22, 2011 We celebrated the life of a woman who left an imprint on my heart forever. My mother in law; Alma Marguerite Walker. We will miss her but we take great joy in our belief that she is with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we will see her again!!!!!!!! It was a beautiful memorial. I miss her sooooooooo much!!!!

My Urns came today from QVC, I love them!

2011-01-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

For now I put them on the table in the entryway of the living room. I will do something different with them later.

I was loving the snow yesterday.....

2011-01-13T16:41:00.000-08:00

...and so was my grandson, bless his heart. Grandma's boy is growing so fast. I can't believe he will be two next month. Look at him trying to be the man of the house at his young age. That's my sweetie pie.

Happy New Year!!!!!!

2010-12-31T18:58:00.001-08:00

Wishing everyone a Happy, Safe, and enjoyable New Year's eve and praying for you all to have a safe transition into 2011. Blessings and Love!!!!!!!!!!!

Let it SNOW!

2010-12-27T09:52:00.001-08:00

Got a good amount of snow yesterday and I loved it, my grandson even tried to help with clearing some of the snow off the porch this morning, lol. What a beautiful backdrop it made for the lights on our porch. Christmas was precious to me this year as it always has been over the years. I guess the older we get the more we just don't take the little things for granted as much, if even any more. Thank you God for this Christmas and the love of my family and friends!

Keep that Holiday Spirit!

2010-12-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2010 has come and gone but we can keep the spirit of joy and love flowing into and throughout the year 2011. I thank God for this year, the good and the bad, the bad builds in us character, strength, and faith, the things we need to help us to continue to persevere in life. So thank God today for what is and what is not. Enjoy the remainder of our holiday friends. Blessings~

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Hark the herald angels sing... "Glory to the newborn King"! Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.... Joyful, all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies, with the angelic host proclaim "Christ is born in Bethlehem"...Luke 2:1-20

Merry CHRISTmas Everyone!!!! I hope your reflection today on the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus, the Christ was a time of blessings and Joy spent with your loved ones!
Here's a thought for today: It is more blessed to give then to receive, and kindness and thoughtfulness goes a long way. What a blessing it is to be thought of! It is so easy to just think of oneself but think of what joy you can feel to think about others.
Peace and Blessings for a wonderful Christmas Day!

Christmastime is Here Again!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

It's Christmastime again, my favorite time of year. This will be the second Christmas, Lord willing, we will get to share with my grandson who will be two in February. What a joy and blessing he continues to be to us with his little spoiled rotten self. I love that little boy more than you know. What a blessing it was to awake this morning and get some of my daily choirs done. As I sat at the coffee table with lights all a glow in my home for the holiday watching a Christmas movie while wrapping a few gifts, I thought about the greatest gift of all to man...JESUS- the Son of God. It is a mere 9 days til Christmas day, the day children around the world anticipate a visit from saint nick. I remember as a child not being able to sleep on the eve of Christmas, anxious to see what would be waiting for me Christmas morning under the tree and spread all over the entire living room, yeah ok I was spoiled being an only child. My parents made Christmas a lasting joy for me. I am 40 something with three kids and a grandchild that I look forward to every year lavishing with all my love, gifts, and holiday joys upon just as it was done to me through my childhood, and even now that I married with a home and family of my own my parents continue to make my Christmases unforgettable, not only for me but for my entire family.

This Christmas will be a bittersweet one for us for we lost a very special woman who graced our lives for many years. It's going to be a little hard to wrap ourselves around the fact that she is no longer here with us physically but Christians know to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. On December 11, 2010 my husband lost his mother and my children lost their beloved grandmother, Alma M. Walker. I loved her so much and I believe she loved me. She was my second mother. She gave from her heart and loved us with a love that only a caring mother, grandmother, and mother in law could. She will always remain in our hearts and minds, and this Christmas we will be thinking about her. I love you Alma and wish you were still here but God called an end to your suffering and pain and gave you rest, and thats a good thing. People who know me know I love Jesus and I am glad my mother in law did too, she believed, so I have peace knowing she herself is truly at peace and in a much better place than us. She has only moved on to her final eternal home with God and all the others who put their trust in him that transcended before her.

I encourage all the eyes that may read this entry at one time or another not to miss the real gift this holiday season. The gift of eternal life through Christ is what I am referring too, the ultimate, unspeakable, unmatchable, gift. Oh how thankful I am to the Father above for this gift and that because of his transforming love I have received it.

Will you receive God's gift today, there is none other like it, you can't purchase it from a store, it's priceless, although technically it was bought with a price-the life of the Savior, Jesus, the Christ so we could be forgiven and live. Don't let the desire in receiving earthly gifts cause you to miss the Gift the Father gave over 2,000 years ago, HIS SON....

Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Matthew 1:23
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).

Luke 2:9-12
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Isaiah 9:6-7
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Romans 5:8
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Acts 4:12
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Blessings for a Safe and Happy Christmas season,

Love, Countrylivinggrandma

P.S. Rest Mom, I love you!!!!!

Our Annual Trip to Feeneys Nursery

2010-12-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the day of our annual trip to one of my fav. Christmas spots with my friend Peggy, we had a great time. That place is a winter wonderland, you can get lost for hours in there just looking at all the Christmas stuff. We have been going every year for almost a decade. If you cant find some Christmas treasures in this place then Christmas must not be in you lol! We always cap it off with a delicious crab cake lunch with fries coleslaw, and a salad, talking bout good. I enjoy our trip every time we go.

Advent Begins Today

2010-11-28T20:45:00.000-08:00

Advent begins today....Come Lord Jesus...4 Sundays of Advent: November 28th, December 5th, December 12th, and December 19th. I have been asked to lite the candle the third Sunday, and to read scripture and say a prayer. At first I was a little nervous at the thought, then I said why, God is with me. Let us be watching and waiting for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus, the Christ!

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!!!

2010-11-28T15:07:00.001-08:00

Nothing like the fresh smell of pine.

2010-11-27T14:30:00.000-08:00

My house is being continuously filled with bursts of pine. I found these two wreaths while shopping on black friday in the nursery section of Lowes. I buy some every year to bring the smell of Christmas into my home since I have an artificial tree.

I hope everybody had a blessed Thanksgiving!

2010-11-27T14:18:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone's holiday was filled with joy, good food, and a thankful day spent with family and friends. I thank God for the day we had Thursday with its snow, friends, food, and family. My mom always goes above and beyond the call of duty. There was so much food and then some. We came home with so much stuff from my parents house you would have thought we went grocery shopping. Thank God for my Mom, she does the cooking for Thanksgiving every year. Some of the cooks on the Food Network could learn a thing or two from my mama! Menu: Turkey and giblet gravy, baked ham {I made}, candied yams, collard greens, yellow turnips, cornbread sage stuffing, stove top stuffing, mac and cheese, BBQ ribs, red beans and rice, brocoli rice, white rice, string beans, dinner rolls, potato salad, and homemade sweet potato pie. Not only is she the is the Queen of Thanksgiving cooking, she is the Queen of my heart. I love you MOM!

I put my Village houses out today.

2010-11-19T16:53:00.000-08:00

Put up some more decorations....yaaaaaaaaay!

2010-11-17T13:17:00.000-08:00

Found this jumbo wreath and cute looking ceramic train today...The train reminds me of Lenox, its not as white as it looks on the pictures.

Sunday is the Best!

2010-11-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

What more can I say about Sunday, it's the Sabbath, a day of rest, time spent with family, a good meal, and good tv. November Sundays are the best because it's countdown to the Holidays. Christmas movies begin early, thanksgiving shows are on the Food Networ. I am sitting here watching my favorite male, Food Network cook, Aaron Mc Cargo, Jr {Big Daddy's House}, while my dinner is cooking.

I took a page out of one of my favorite, female Food Network cook's, Sandra Lee's {Semi-Homemade} book and opened a Jar of Spaghetti sauce, cut up some green peppers and onions, added a pound of hot italian sausage which I cut in circles, and all that was left was to add some fresh basil, oregano, salt and pepper and put my pot on the stove to simmer for an hour after which I will add my tomatoe paste and let it cook for another 15 minutes while my pasta boils, and dinner is served. My favorite beverage will accompany it and I am set for a filling, comforting meal to eat while I continue to watch more Christmas movies.

I hope everybody is having a wonderfully blessed weekend, God is great!

Okay, so I didnt wipe the edges of my plate off after sprinkling my pepper on top before taking the picture, lol, forgive me, it's sooooooooooooo good!

Love and Blessings,
Country living Grandma!

Rejoicing and thanking God today for my Joy!!!!

2010-11-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

Everybody look around cause there's a reason to rejoice U see. Everybody let's shout & let's commence to singing joyfully..."Yes we feel this brand new day", "Yes we feel this brand new day!...This is the day that the Lord has made let us rejoice & be glad in it. God he has given us another opportunity to make a difference, touch a life, deliver a message, bust most of all bask in HIS love 4 us. I woke up feeling Joy this morning, the Joy that God gives. Close your eyes, clear your mind, and feel the love of God all over you and then Thank HIM for it. I decided to take a trip to the Mall today and see what I could find and also check out the stuff thats out for Christmas. I had a greaaaaaaaaaaat morning!!!!!!

Reflections of my Grandson.....

2010-11-07T05:47:00.000-08:00

Life is a blessing and time is precious. I am thankful to God for waking me up this morning and for this moment of reflection. Sometimes we get so busy in life and keep so much on our mind that we rarely take the time to rest and reflect. As I sit here at my computer this early precious Sunday morning. I began thinking about a few things, one being the holidays and how precious they have always been to me. I dont ever remember not being excited about the approaching holidays. To me Holiday time is family time, love, food, fun, and pure enjoyment with the ones we love and cherish. It's a time of reflection and extra gratefulness unto to God for all that you have and that you are still here to enjoy time with your family. Yes my life has been FULL, praise God, I can't complain at all. There have been good times and bad times and even those times in between, lol, but all in all my life has been greeeeeaaaaaat! I have God's favor and I say this not to say those whose lives are not great aren't loved by God because God so loved the world that HE gave his only begotten SON, and not to forget how HE showed his love toward us that while we were yet sinners his SON {Jesus} whom I am referring to DIED so we could live. How thankful I am that when I look back the good times outweigh the bad tremendously. God, thaaaaaaaank you!

I have a grandson yall,lol, he is a handful, yes he is spoiled rotten, and I guess you can say we are partly the blame, lol. He will be two years old in three months. This little precious thing named Izaiah is my pride and joy. In between telling him to leave this alone and put that down, stop running, etc. we have our special moments that are unforgettable. My random hugs around my neck, my sweet kisses, my smiles, the eye to eye contact that we sometimes give one another, the moments when he crys because he doesnt like when his mom has to leave for work and I take him in my arms on my lap and try to comfort him and let him know its all good to hang out with grandmom until mommy returns. But what I am remembering right now is the times when he is on my lap and he plays with my cross on my chain and my Jesus key until his little head is tired and he lays it on my chest and falls asleep and I can do nothing but kiss that little big head of his because I am so grateful that he is with us and thankful each day to see him and his little life progress right before my eyes. Amongst the many things I am thankful to God for this morning I want to thank him for Izaiah.....I love him!

Holiday.....Celebrate!

2010-11-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Okay some who visit my blog will probably say, man she has decorated for Christmas already. Well.....lol, yes. Those who know me personally know it has been a tradition of mine for many, many years to begin decorating for the Holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas come behind one another so close and being as though I don't decorate for Thanksgiving I just put up some of my Christmas stuff Nov. 1st. My tree, my Christmas Village, the decorating of my porch, and windows doesn't get put up until the day after Thanksgiving. Here is a little peek of some of the things I have put out already.

Easy project using your apocathery jars for the Holiday.

2010-10-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

All you need is some clear white wired lights, some christmas balls and some type of glass filler for your jars. Wash your jars with some warm water detergent and a touch of clorox and make them shine before filling them. The light will filter through so much better. Below is what I did. Tuck in the white lights and play along with your filler and balls to get the desired look you want. The glass beaded garland you see to the right along with the silver balls is what I used as my filler. I got the glass beaded garland from Qvc from Valerie parr hills heartfelt holiday collection like 6 years ago and I finally found a use for it, lol. I put my jars in a grouping on my sideboard in my dinning room. The glow really looks pretty at night while watching tv and relaxing.

I put my jars in a grouping of three. I used red and silver glass medium sized balls. The larger jar is inside of a brown rectangle wicker basket filled with scented pincecones and some pretty small fabric christmas balls I had from a couple of years ago. I also put two large pine branched picks with red berries attached along side the middle jar for a added festive look, a simple project that is elegant and inviting. Makes dinner time even sweeter during the holidays.

24hr Christmas Shopping begins on QVC at midnight tune in!

2010-10-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Program Guide.

Do you pick a Christmas theme(s) to decorate for the Holidays?

2010-10-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

I usually have a snowman theme going on in my home and they will make their appearance again this year as usually but I think I am going to mix in a cardinal theme this year. Last year I bought some ceramic cardinals for my table and the other day I picked up a cardinal designed Christmas runner for my table so I think I am gonna build on those two items and create a new theme. I am thumbing through Terry's Village catalog right now and they have some cardinal items including a tea server which I think I might purchase.

QVC holiday shopping today and tomorrow

2010-10-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010

Christmas Shoppe 2-3 pm and 6-7 pm

Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2010

Holiday Gift Preview 12-1 am

Heartfelt Holidays by Valerie Parr Hill 1-2 am

Christmas Shoppe 8-9 am and 1-2 pm

13 more days till I began decorating for the Christmas Holiday

2010-10-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's been a tradition in my home to began decorating for Christmas 11:59 pm or earlier that evening on the evening of the 31st of Oct. for Christmas. The main tree nor does the porch or windows get decorated until the day after thanksgiving.

I usually break out the scented pinecones and candles (sometimes these two things come out even earlier), snowmen, pine branched garlands, my Christmas boyds bears, and my mini trees and signs. I am getting excited just typing this. My lighted houses that I usually put atop of my entertainment center go up the week of Thanksgiving. This year we will be having Thanksgiving dinner at my parents home on the eve of thanksgiving because its the only day my daughter will have off. I cant wait. I love the parade and all it's tradition for us to watch it every Thanksgiving. I cant wait to watch it with my grandson, Lord willing. I just love the Holidays!

Fall weather is here!!!!!!

2010-10-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

I love the fall, the cool weather, the crisp air and all the beautiful colors. It lets me know the holidays are approaching. Blink and Thanksgiving will be here, just 51 days away. Thanksgiving night kicks off the Christmas season which will follow just thirty days afterwards. I started my shopping for Christmas last month. I will be wrapping some gifts tomorrow while my grandson is away since all the gifts I got thus far are for him anyway lol. Enjoy the rest of your week ladies.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-03T05:52:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer Site~

Sweet 16

2010-09-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

Preparing for a "Sweet 16" is work, running here & there to get this & get that, relocating things in the house to make room for party goers, set up & food prep can leave you a little breathless, lol, but it's all worth it & a blessing to be able to share this milestone with my daughter, family & her friends, did I mention how excited & happy I am, lol. "Happy Sweet" 16 Le Le. She had a ball yesterday and so did we along with her and her friends.

9 years later: We still remember....

2010-09-11T16:42:00.000-07:00

The start of my Fall decorating......

2010-08-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

Took Fall Stuff out of storage

2010-08-26T13:08:00.000-07:00

Washed my curtains and lace doolies today, took out my fall stuff, washed it off, went to Ross and picked up the "count your blessings" sign, the two green and beige wicker baskets, and the pumpkin "autumn blessings" sign and added to my fall decor. I also have an autumn wreath, leaf swags and a country basket with some pine cones. I am about to wash down the fireplace mantel and decorate it for the fall. I wasn't going to do it to the first of September but hey whats five days lol. I will post some pictures when I am done. Enjoy your day ladies!

Fall approaches.....

2010-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe it's only 29 days till Fall arrives, and 122 days till my favorite time of year, Christmas, time truly waits on no one. The month of September will not only entail the transformation of my home into the fall season, it's also the month for 4 birthday celebrations in our home, all three of my children, my dad, and myself. I am really looking forward to next month this year because I get to throw my youngest her anticipated "Sweet Sixteen" party. Her color theme is pink, black, and white. I will be posting oodles of pictures so be sure to check back in.

12 am tonight kicks off a full 24 hours of holiday shopping on QVC. I will be tunning in for Valarie Parr Hill's "Heartfelt Holidays" showcase from 5-7 AM, happy shopping
ladies!

Enjoy the rest of your Summer,
Country Living Grandma

Nothing like the beauty of God's Ocean

2010-07-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures while on vacation at the beach July 12-19. I sure wish I was still there enjoying it's beauty, all in all, I thank God for allowing us to enjoy another vacation together this year. It is always a true blessing. It was our 24th year straight going to the same Vacation spot at the Shore. Boy it would be great to own a home there near the beach.

Christmas in July on QVC begins tonight at 11 pm

2010-07-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

Christmas in July kick off 11pm tonight and runs until Midnight Sunday night.

We are on Vacation....yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!

2010-07-14T08:02:00.001-07:00

We got here Monday and boy we were so happy to see the Wildwoods again, our second year at the Bolero Resort. This is our 24th year coming down here for a week out of the Summer. The Weather has been beautiful although it has been stormy in Philly. It rained last night while were sleep but I didn't hear a thing, by nightfall I am plum tuckered out and the kids usually go out on their own. We have swam and played games and ate all kinds of goodies. We might go to the beach today. We about to get a pizza so I will share a few pictures with you and check in with you later. Have a blessed day.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T06:09:00.001-07:00

Wishing my dad a Happy Father's Day. I salute him for the man he is and the dad he has always been to me, those that have known me for years know he was always a protective man of his daughter. I might have not understood it then but I do now and I thank him for all the love he continues to give his little girl who is grown up now, but no matter how old God allows me to become I will always treasure and need my daddy. Happy Father's Day to all the other dads out there too.

Come on Vacation!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-05T14:31:00.001-07:00

My mom is such a blessing....

2010-05-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 10th, my mom and I went on our annual Mother's day getaway to the Jersey Shore. We had three glorious days and two nights together. It was such a relaxing and rejuvenating time spent together, good food, sites, sounds, and great company. I looked forward to this priceless time with my mom every year and I thank God he allows us to continue to be able to go year after year. I hope every mom had a wonderful day.

These beautiful fixtures were all over.

One place we ate was the french quarters buffet....the food was awesome!

view from our room on the top floor of the hotel...44th floor.

If I could have a spa type bathroom like this at home....excellent!

This is where I got two nights of peaceful rest....priceless!

Mom's gifts

more gifts.....

an angel for my angel.....

more fine things for my mama, she deserves it all....

me relaxing in the sun on the outside top deck of the ocean one mall.

the sun felt so good....I was talking on the phone and listening to my ipod.

I love this view from inside of the mall built over the ocean.

the beginning of the beautiful water show that I like seeing every year.

My roses are starting to bloom....beautiful

2010-05-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

Saluting all Mothers

2010-05-03T07:00:00.001-07:00

I know it's 6 more days till Mother's Day, but I wanted to shout out all the mothers early for all they do on a daily basis for their families. Moms work & love hard and it feels good to be appreciated and know that all that you've sacrificed and worked for over the years was not in vain. This is for all the moms out there, I salute you!

I am loving my fern and my clean Lawn

2010-05-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

I will stop pass home depot and get me some more hostas and possibly another fern, nothing gives your porch a country touch like a boston fern. My nephew came over yesterday in the heat and manicured my front lawn. He uprooted an unwanted tree and tons of ivy, cut my grass, pruned my roses, and put down fresh cedar mulch for me. It looks amazing outside. It makes it more pleasurable to sit outside during the day as well as at night.

My Azalea Bush

2010-04-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

Found these babies today.

2010-04-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

They fit in with the apple and rooster them in the kitchen quite well.

More added touches to my kitchen

2010-04-23T10:43:00.000-07:00

Finale- It's complete.

2010-04-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

Day 2 sink and cabinet installation

2010-04-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Plumbing finished, we hit a snag because my sink drain collapsed under the cement basement floor and it delayed the hardware being installed so he will be back tomorrow to put my draw pulls and handles on but all in all I love my new sink and cabinets but most of all a working drain. God is awesome. He sent me a plumber thats not greedy and cares more about helping people in need then helping himself to money in your pockets.

Create your own country bed and breakfast

2010-04-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

It's a blessing to be able to take vacations, and get away to a place of pure pleasure, but once the vacation is over and there is no more hotel suite to relax in and get room service, we return home missing those pleasures we enjoyed for a week or two.

Most people enjoy the comfort of a country decorated Inn to relax in with its beautiful floral quilts, pastel colored walls, and fresh flowers on the tables. While watching the HGTV shows I find that many homeowners are calling in designers to give their bedroom that Bed and Breakfast feel. They desire that relaxing hotel look right in the comforts of their own home. I can't say I blame them.

Why not turn your bedroom into your own private getaway. Why should you have to wait or only experience once a year that relaxing feeling that you get when you go on vacation or a weekend getaway. You can accomplish this look in your own bedroom at home. I went to Ross today and found me a beautiful Queen Quilt set with shams and a bed skirt. I also picked out a new set of sheets with a color taken from the design in my quilt set which happened to be green, my favorite color.

Nothing is more relaxing at night then to snuggle up in a comfortable bed with colors and designs all around you that make you feel good. Dress your windows up with some nice sheers, shades, or curtains that match your bedding. Try adding some silk floral arrangements to the night tables on either side of your bed or atop of your armoire, and choose some soothing prints to hang on your walls, maybe prints with a beach theme or a garden theme. Accent your bed with pillows with different size and shapes, place some crystal candlesticks on your dresser and cover them with glass hurricane globes and light them at night while your awake for a romantic evening with your husband, some soft music playing on the cd player wouldn’t hurt either. Whatever theme you choose, you can make your bedroom your own private oasis, a place where you and your husband can get away without even leaving the house.

I will post more pictures later after I complete my project....

Evening of Day 1, tomorrow the finale

2010-04-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow the plumbing will be connected, the hardware and molding will be added. I can put my curtains back up and add my flowers and country accents and wala mama can use her sink again, wooooowhoooooooo!

Day 1 sink and cabinet installation

2010-04-14T11:33:00.001-07:00

Old one demolished

New one about to be put in.

All three cabinets being installed.

Okay, next phase, the counter will be securely attached, a hole cut out for the sink, the attaching of the faucets and the connecting of the plumbing underneath. I can't wait til its finished.

I added some Raggedy Ann dolls to my country decor.

2010-04-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

Here are my Raggedy Ann poatriotic dolls.

Kitchen, you have been neglected, but I am gonna give you new life, lol.

2010-04-13T12:40:00.001-07:00

countertop

under cabinets

Getting a new kitchen counter, cabinet and sink installed. I cant wait, its been a looooong time coming but thanks be to God its almost here. Went to Home Depot with my contractor to pick out what I liked. I found some nice cabinet knobs and door pulls too. I can't wait til its all finished so I can be proud to let people in my kitchen again, lol!!!!!!!!!!!!

countertop with a backsplash.

Kitchen under sink cabinet, its actually 4 pieces to this set.

stainless steel sink which you cant see thru the box, lol.

Oil rubbed bronze knobs and door pulls.

Faucets

Nite time lighting.

2010-04-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

I found these cute single stake solar lights, and oh how they illuminated my porch tonight. It makes for a comfortable, cozy, relaxing evenings outdoors. I stick them in an old flower pot with dirt in the direct sunlight during the day to power them up and at night the lights come on and I place the inside my plants to give the porch a nice warm glow at night.

HE AROSE!!!!!

2010-04-04T13:14:00.001-07:00

Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father...John 10:17-18

Got some new Plants for the porch!

2010-04-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

My New Rooster!

2010-04-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Resurrection Day!!!

2010-04-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you Jesus for my Salvation, for loving me enough to give of your life in my place so that I could continue to live with you beyond my life here on earth. Thank U for your blood covering that covers my multitude of sin, for being my advocate, and repairing my relationship with the Father, otherwise my life would have no purpose or reason for existence.

Happy Good Friday!!!

2010-04-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

Praise God from whom all blessings flow, praise him all creatures here below. What a joyous day we have to reflect on how our Lord, and Savior, Jesus, worked out our Salvation at the cross thousands of years ago. Happy Good Friday!!!! Thank you Father for what you did then, and what you continue to do today. I love you!

Happy Palm Sunday

2010-03-28T09:34:00.001-07:00

Cooking Day all day on QVC

2010-03-21T05:06:00.000-07:00

Stock up on your much needed kitchen items so you can have what you need for your summer BBQ's indoors or outdoors. Kitchen aid products, lock and lock storage containers for your left overs, and temptation pieces for cooking and serving. Paula Deen's kitchen is coming on at 9 am for an hour.

Click Here is the Schedule:

My White Roses (From my Garden)

2010-03-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

I loved taking and making these!

2010-03-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sunday Beef Stew

2010-03-13T12:57:00.000-08:00

2 pounds stew beef, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried leaf thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried ground marjoram
1/4 teaspoon dried leaf tarragon
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil
1 medium bay leaf
1 can (10 1/2 ounce) condensed beef broth
4 medium carrots, chopped in 1-inch pieces
4 medium to large potatoes, cut in 1-inch cubes
4 stalks of celery washed and cut in medium quaters
4 medium onions, peeled, washed, and cut in quarters
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

In a skillet brown the stew meat in the olive oil. Add the herbs, seasonings, beef broth, onions and celery. Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours. At this point add the potatoes and carrots and continue cooking for 30 to 35 minutes longer, until vegetables are tender. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. In a small bowl mix the flour and water until no lumps are present, add to the stew, continue to heat until it dissolves in liquid and serve. Makes about 6 hearty bowls.
You can prepare this dish the day before and let the flavors marry over night and it will be just as delicious for your Sunday dinner. Serve with a side of biscuits for dunking.

March is National Craft Month

2010-03-10T18:34:00.000-08:00

March is National Craft Month. 2010 marks the 16th year that National Craft Month has been celebrated by craft retailers as well as consumers. National Craft Month is a great opportunity to hold contests and to simply celebrate the joy of crafting. Are you working on any special crafts at the present, if so let us know send me an email and I will showcase her on my blog and link it to your blog or website. I look forward to hearing what all you crafters are doing. HAPPY CRAFTING!

Springtime...My Poem

2010-03-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

Sherri Walker

I am so looking forward to Spring....
Beholding the essence of a rose is such a beautiful thing.

The brightness of the sun shines even more...
People venture to beach to walk upon the sand by the shore.

The weather is milder to enjoy the beauty of the day...
The skies are clearer, children come out to play.

The light of day is such a pleasure to behold...
No more frigid weather, days are more warmer than cold.

It's a joy in the morning, to open your windows and lift your shades...
To welcome in the light and the warmth from the sun's bright rays.

My anticipation grows for the summer season to arrive...
I look forward to strolls in the park or an afternoon drive.

Nature's beauty is reaching its best..
I ponder the grace of God, because I know I'm blessed.

I am thankful unto the Lord, my spirit embracing it all...
Just being grateful for life, be it Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall.

Morning Time

2010-03-10T06:08:00.000-08:00

A good book and a little breakfast starts off any morning right. Nothing like a little quiet time in the morning. I love coming downstairs pulling the shades up to let in a wee bit of light, grab a cup of coffee or juice and make myself some breakfast. I enjoy browsing through my country books and magazines searching for recipes and new decorating ideas. Another one of my favorite morning past times is watching Cosby from 9-10 am. It's such a relaxing part of my morning. Hopefully today will warm up like yesterday when our temperature reached 63 degrees and I can wash my hair and maybe peek out the door and watch my grandson on the porch again. I am so looking forward to the Spring, and Summer vacation this year, been inside too long, getting cabin fever, ready to be out and about in the mix of things. Time to move out of my comfort zone and expand my horizons. I am ready to take on some new projects this year and take care of some much needed personal business as well. 2010 will be the beginning of some much needed changes I have been looking forward to accomplishing. Keep stopping by to see how things progress over the weeks to come. Enjoy your day and God Bless!

Spring is coming....

2010-03-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

Just vacuumed my porch and sat two chairs out, and washed down my screen door and window ledges with some pinesol. Its gonna be nice all week, maybe I will peek my head out and sit on the porch with my grandson for a little while. I still say it needs to be ten more degrees for me to want to sit outside for a while, lol.. Feels good to open the front door for a while and let some of God's air in. I will be glad when the weather permits me to buy some now plants and flowers for my porch. I love the beauty of nature.

Getting ready for Spring

2010-03-09T07:11:00.000-08:00

QVC---10 am-11 am Garden party is on. Learn tips & get products that will keep your plants and flowers growing healthy and strong.

Patio and Garden is on from 4-6 pm....Purchase items to decorate you patio and outdoor porches, some things are available on easy pay.