Fall Decor . . .

. . . in the middle of Indian Summer! Kinda late, I know, but it sure is warm here. "We're having a heat wave, a tropical heat wave (singing)." It was a perfect 70s kinda day. Wow. I have the doors flung open, allowing all the freshly hatched bugs (again) to fly in and take residence (again).

I found these acorns at Pottery Barn! Amazing. Since I can't find any real ones, I had to have these. It was such a tease playing with them in Bremen, Germany, and then coming home to none. I don't know why you don't see that many old oak trees any longer. Growing up, they were everywhere. I've heard that the pin oak has taken over the American oak because it is less susceptible to disease. Guess that's why. But, I sure do miss the acorns. (Don't miss the mess--hmmm, could that be another reason they're all gone?)

Since I've been in thanksgiving mode, I've been putting little fall things out. Finally put the Halloween stuff away, everything but the witch garland. Too lazy to bring out the ladder.


These are the two arrangements mom threw away two years ago. I have to laugh every time I look at them. I purchased them half price after Thanksgiving two years ago. When I started decorating for Christmas, I asked the kid to take them to mom's apartment and put them on the coffee table. He thought I said her kitchen table. The next day, when I went down to see her, (laughing here) there sat the containers with nothing in them! I just gasped! "MOM! Where are the dried flowers????!!!" She thought they were dead (yea, they were, hehe) and had cut them all off and threw them in the back yard! Thank goodness she did that and didn't throw them in the trash. I was able to gather up all the filling and take it back to the florist I had purchased them from and had them rearrange it again. By the time I was finished, I had paid full price for the things! So, each year when I bring them out, I giggle at the memory of both of our faces--pure shock on both of our behalves! I tell her, "We're both just dumb as dirt!"

This is my front foyer. I've scattered the acorns about on my old tin tray. I probably should change the green arrangement here, but I probably won't. Grin. It does the job.

This is in my living room. Can you tell I love to celebrate birthdays? hehe. I have the kid's and my birthday presents sitting and waiting for us. giggle. I have been receiving lots of birthday ATCs from the ATC Yahoo group I'm a member of. How fun is that? The middle one is from non other than our Daisy Lupin! Isn't it fab! As I get new ones, I rotate them on my little easles that I purchased in Zurich. Aren't they great! They only had four, so I bought them all. They were only like $2.00!!

One of our fish died, Big Momma. She wasn't too nice. She chased Blackie and Goldie around and around all the time; so we weren't too sad to see her perish, sorry. You know, in feng shui, you can read all types of different takes on things. But, I have heard that if one fish dies, it has taken a blow of bad luck for you. Phew. Glad I dodged that ball, whatever it was. And so, the kid and I are off to get a replacement for Big Momma. I cleaned their bowl out today and Goldie and Blackie seem real happy without being harassed. I'm hoping I get another good one that gets along with the two others. (I haven't forgotten about the Feng Shui Post, I just need to gather some info before I delve into it! So, don't you fret my little pretties. Be patient with the old broad.)
I'll leave you with a pic of Dave dressed in drag. This is actually a feather toy (not boa) that he's (kinda) playing with. Wouldn't he make a beautiful female! hehe.

Update: And. . . here's Molly! Alone and with her new peeps. Now this gal has personality! Even B & G perked up when she swam in. They are normally just slugs. I think we have a good team here.

While Visions of Turkeys Danced in Her Head

Some are already thinking about Christmas while others are just getting over Halloween. Me? I am preparing for Thanksgiving, mentally. This is my favorite holiday of the year. It hasn't gone all commercial, yet, and the thoughts of family and food just fill me with glee.

Since we've moved to Tennessee, it's not the same as it used to be when all the family would gather at our house for a Feast of Thanks. My brother Jim (the food snob) has been cooking Thanksgiving dinner for us at our house for about ten years. He always sends "Willie Bird" via post and arrives shortly thereafter to begin all the preparations. He is the best cook ever, EV-VER! (I know my other brother John misses the good food on Thanksgiving as he is unable to travel. Pout.)


He always packs his "chef essentials," that I normally don't have. If it weren't for him, my kitchen would be bare with cheapo pots and pans, and other flimsy utensils, I'm sure. Nope, Jim sends me specialty items each year before his arrival, or he just packs them up and brings them with him. He brings his own carving knife and fork, his own spices and always throws in a couple of surprises for us. It's always good to see them arrive.

And so, this year, I am thinking ahead. I have started my list and even have done a little shopping for some goodies. I normally don't get into Thanksgiving mode until the weekend before they arrive--running around like a mad woman or not doing a thing. It's nice when it's family and you have that choice! I normally have to make several trips to Williams Sonoma (once before he arrives and once after he arrives for the things I forgot, of course). After about ten years of doing this, I should know by know the basic necessities. But you know, there is always at least one thing he needs that I don't have. I like stocking up on chocolate cocoa (which I bought in Brussels this year, ooohlala) for the kids and thus also come the marshmallows--and with marshmallows come the rest of ingredients for s'mores for the fire pit. While the kids make their s'mores, we sip our Beaujolais Nouveau and get giddy. Ooooh, I can't wait! I am getting so excited!!

That's just about all we do the entire time they're here--eat and drink. The kids run around doing what kids do and the rest of us are either prepping for the next meal, eating and drinking or out running around town. It is just a wonderful time, but I truly miss having the rest of my family with us. One day, we're all going to have to meet in a central place and live it up again.

A Big Day

It's a nail biter here in Tennessee!!

A Blessing

Our little family was sent a blessing today. I am so thankful!

Last week, the day after my mom visited her physician for a check up, she came upstairs to show me something. She had this huge, quarter-sized lump just above her left breast. I asked her how long it had been there, and she couldn't tell me. I asked her if it hurt, and she said no.

Of course, I immediately called her doctor and got her in the next day, Thursday. After taking a look at the lump, the doctor set up an immediate (as soon as possible) mammogram appointment and an appointment with a surgeon. I'm not a worrier. I wasn't worrying. I was praying, of course; but I wasn't worrying. I made it seem like nothing to her so she wouldn't worry; and she wasn't worrying either. Tough as nails, those Bailey women!

Today was her appointment to have the mammogram at 12:15. Of course, it was raining, and of course my driver-side wiper had gone beserk this morning. And so it was, me leaning to one side--mom's--to drive into Nashville to Baptist Hospital! Lord! If that wasn't a sight, I don't know what was. My poor windshield wiper was just kind of having convulsions way off the windshield, and I was leaning over towards the middle of the car so I could see. It really wasn't raining hard, thank goodness; so it really wasn't as bad as it sounds. But, again, I'm sure it was quite a sight! Mom and I giggled all the way into town.

I am always amazed at the quality of care here in Nashville. If you have a 12:15 appointment, you are taken in at 12:15. I followed mom every step of the way--doing her paperwork, to help her into her beautiful "robe" and then I sat and waited. They took the first set of mammograms and then they called her back for a second. It was only then that I began to worry. After her second set, they took us back to have a sonogram done of the "sight." I tell you, I was really praying hard by then. All kinds of things went through my head, of course. If she had cancer, would she be able to get through chemo and radiation at her age. Would I have to make this decision on my own and how much would my brothers be involved. My sister-in-law is a pharmaceutical rep and was just here in Nashville regarding something to do with cancer meds. Was this a sign to prepare myself for something? Would she be able to help me through the decision process? You know, all kinds of thoughts racing 'round my little noggin.

By about 2:30, the nurse came out and said I could go in and sit with mom and keep her company while the doctor looked over everything. Mom was so quiet, it was scary. I didn't know if she had begun to worry or if she was just relaxing. I kept the conversation upbeat and about nothing in particular. She just lied there. It was very eerie. It brought tears to my eyes seeing mom in a hospital gown and laying on a "gourney." I will never be ready to let go of my mom.

When the doc came in, he was very cordial and got right to the facts. It was a cyst! No cancer!! Tears welled up in my eyes, and I tried to keep myself together as he described the type of cyst it is. He even said there was no reason to have it removed unless it became inflamed. Hallelujah! I never want mom to go under the "knife" at her age; and it sounds like it won't be necessary. PTL. I asked the doctor if we should keep the appointment with the surgeon, and he suggested we do. It's always good to get a second opinion, he told us. Yes, of course! I wasn't thinking clearly by then.

When the doctor and nurse left the room for mom to get dressed, I just hugged her and we high-fived each other!! I still don't know if she ever had a thought of cancer in her mind. I don't think she realized how serious this could have been. When we left the room, the nurse was there to see if we had any more questions and to walk us to the door. My mom went up to her and said, "You have been so sweet, can I hug you?" Awwwww. Of course, I welled up again! The nurse said that had made her day. Awwwww.

Needless to say, the family took Nanna out to dinner tonight, and we celebrated!! Wooohooo! The angels were looking over my momma, and I am so very thankful.

Happy Sunday

Here's Miss Bev drinking from our fountain. I try and keep it cleaned out for her. This is where I sneak in Bach's Rescue Remedy, shhhh. She seems to be doing better. I haven't had to give her any antihystamines in a couple of days. She scratches a little every once in a while, but not like she was. Thank goodness.

I'm beginning to feel myself again. How long did that take? Way too long! I'm going to start working on a post on Feng Shui (Wind/Water). I think you all will enjoy learning about it--not that I'm an expert! I've been dabbling in it for about 16 years.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Bremen, Germany

I am terribly behind in my posts on Europe. Finally, I'm getting to Bremen. We only had part of a day there so we were very limited in what we were able to see. The hub was working during the day, so the kid and I wandered around. Thanks to Carol at Boxwood Cottage, we were able to see the main stuff. She told us where to go. (Oh, and by the way, our luggage arrived right before we left Amsterdam to drive to Bremen! I was feeling pretty fresh in my clean clothes!) It was only a three-hour drive from Amsterdam, very doable.

We stayed right around the corner from Marktplatz (Market square). The picture above is the Town Hall which dates back to the early 1400s. Yep, 1400s! We're such youngins' over here in America. Geesh. The square is full of beautiful old buildings which the kid and I oooh'd and awwed over all morning.


This was our view from our room. I loved the old terra cotta roof tiles. Oh, and the church bells. . . there is something about being in an old town where church bells ring. The kid and I actually went back to the room for a short nap and fell asleep to the bells chiming. How lovely, indeed.


When we awoke, it was about lunch time and we were refreshed enough to wander a bit further. The market square is just wonderful. Since we were leaving in the morning to fly to Zurich, I couldn't buy any of the wonderful things being sold in the markets, i.e. cheeses, breads, flowers, etc.

I am always totally fascinated with old churches no matter where I travel. Look at this beauty. Sigh. This is the Cathedral St. Petri (St. Peter's Cathedral), located in the market square. It was built between the 11th and 13th centuries. Amazing.
After an hour's catnap, it was about lunch time and we were refreshed enough to wander a bit further. Carol had told us about Schnoor, a small area right on the river Weser. It's full of little shops that were once fishing houses built in the 15th and 16th centuries. The first thing the kid purchased was a little fishing boat. We walked around and around, never did eat lunch.


You know I was hyperventilating, wanting to buy everything! But I was good. Would you just take a look at these HUGE marionettes! I loved them!!


I fell in love with many of the little cottages. Look at the detail work. I was truly in heaven.

When we were done, we met the hub and our traveling companion, Carol, back at the hotel. It was time for a beer on the river. Look at thd found. Awwww.


Here is one of many statues representing Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten (The Town Musicians of Bremen). This is a famous fairy tale written by the Brothers Grimm. This colorful statue is down by the river. There is artwork depicting the story everywhere. Just beautiful and lively! I brought home several books, both in English and German, of the fairy tale.

It was then time for dinner. We all had various dishes, no pics, I'm afraid. But what comes after dinner? Delicious dessert!! Take a look at our goodies! A berry crepe (of course) and an apple struedel that we passed around and around. What presentation!

I think I could have slept for a few days, but the next morning, the kid and I were off flying to Zurich while the hub and Carol continued driving on to Dusseldorf. Our flight was less than an hour.
Now for my purchases! hehe. I found this lovely little demitasse cup in a sweet antique shop. Just had to have it. Then there is the adorable pixie family I couldn't resist! Here we are in our glory-- the hub, teenager, kid and myself! These are from the Nasse Collection in Denmark. I will definitely need to learn a little Danish and check out their site! The little card that comes with each says:

The pixy family comes from an itty-bitty tiny country far away in the North. From there, pixies have wandered to most other parts of the world, yet only the fewest know the little pixy well. The little pixy is shy and would much rather have us believe that he is made only of pure cotton from top to toe. But we do know that deep inside of him, a sweet little Christmas heart is pounding.

Too sweet! And look at the sweet little bears. Awwwww. Like I really need these. But they were so different and hand made by the owner of one of the shops. I guess I'm still a child at heart. . . .

Ok Carol, tell me if I got anything wrong! My memory isn't quite as good as it used to be!! You are so fortunate to live in such a wonderful place.

Helpful People/Travel Area A-OK

I have my "helpful people/travel area in good order now. I went out today and purchased three fish for my bowl--two gold and one black. I also placed a wind chime on each door knob going into this room (the study). They sound so peaceful when I open the doors. I'm loving it.

I also moved some angel figures and a pysanka into the northwest corner. Also placed up high is the Madonna with baby Jesus. I've written my affirmation and placed it in a small red envelope and hidden it under one of the angels. Gray candles are burning (gray is a good color for this area). I have also asked for their special guidance and security for our little family.

I feel better now with the hub half way around the world (in feng shui territory)! Bob Dylan is singing Hard Rain. Yep, I'm feeling pretty good right about now.

It Feels Like November

First of all, I have to apologize for leaving Rootie out of the Halloween celebration pics last night. How could I forget such a cute face? Dumb as dirt, but has a heart of gold. This is the pumpkin scarf that sweet Pea sent with her Halloween package. Speaking of which, what a soiree she pulled off last night!! Wowie zowie -- my feet were still moving to Monster Mash way until the wee hours of the morning! (In truth, I awoke at 1:30 with a waft of candles burning--having a keen sense of smell is both a blessing and a curse--only to find that I had forgotten to blow out the Halloween candelabra--again from Pea. Gee, I could have burnt the place down! It was then that I finally made it to Pea's bash! But things were still rockin'. Others arrived later than I!!) Ok, back to the dog. Rootie has been wearing this scarf since it arrived The teenager says she looks like an old lady. Well, she is aging, quite well, I may add. She's the ripe old age of ten and she has the grey chin hairs to prove it!

It was a rainy day here in Middle Tennessee but not too cool. By around 6, the wind began whipping and the temperature dropped quite suddenly. Even my localite Miss Bethy commented on it being November weather, already! I'm loving it as the leaves have finally turned after quite a bit of rain and are now beginning to fall. My little maple in the front yard has a beautiful pile of orange and yellow leaves below it. If it hadn't been so wet today, I would have taken a pic. Perhaps tomorrow, because it is such a beautiful site.

I spent the day out and about, mostly. I have had piles stacked every place with a flat surface (and some not so flat spots) in my kitchen since my return from Europe and I had about enough of it today. I had to go out and purchase yet another organizer for all my artsy stuff. I just couldn't take it any longer! I am so tired of getting an idea and not being able to find that "piece" I need. I hope this does it for a while. Next time I say I need yet another organizer, I think it's time to find an entire room!

I've had my mind on a fish lately. I all but killed every plant in my father's funeral planter. It took five years, but they all died, the ivy was the last to hold out until this summer. I have brought it in and am giving it a good soaking. I'm going to put this beautiful Chinese fish bowl in the study and add either a gold and black beta or two gold fish and one black fish. I like to adhere to the art of Feng Shui in my home and this will add protection in our "Important People/Travel" area. With the hub traveling again, we need all the luck we can get! So the bowl is soaking five year's worth of dirt and roots; and hopefully it will come clean enough to use for a fish. Will keep ya posted on that project.

Tonight I made a pot roast in the slow roaster. The kid came home and asked "Didn't you make the same thing last week?" Kinda. But, not really. The hub leaves for Singapore tomorrow morning, and I thought I'd make him a good "basic" before he left. It turned out delish. I added a bottle of our local butcher's Merlot Steak Sauce, along with some chicken stock, to the pan drippings where I had browned the beef. It added so much flavor to the dish. Even the boys loved it -- with no veggies mind you.

I started my post on Bremen, Germany, finally. It always takes me so long to do one of these posts after the fact. I've been jogging my memory as best I can, and I hope I'll finish that one up tomorrow.

Here's one last pic to show you how cold it has become. This is Abbey and Dave snuggling. Too cute!!! Awwwww. Look at Abbey's tongue. She was just cleaning Dave. Awwww, again.