Zuzu's Petals

Yipeee!

2012-01-22T10:45:00.000-08:00

It finally SNOWED!!!!

It couldn't have happened on a better day!

SATURDAY MORNING!

What a way to start the weekend!

Of course everyone had such fun

with all the stuff found under the snow

and on top of the snow.

Even Bob enjoyed watching the two

crazy canines.

Yep, and after it was all over,

this is what everyone looked like.....

for quite some time.

HO, HO, HO, it's Christmas!

2011-12-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

This year my Christmas was all about

Family,

Zuzu & Moose,

and MOOSE,

and MOOSE,
and MOOSE.

We had a very nice Christmas &

I think Moose did too!

My Bart

2011-10-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

There's a time in everyone's days that

a little sorrow passes our way.

Today sadness passed through my day.

For thirteen years, he was our

Friend,

Pal,

Clown of Dogs,

Mr. Grumpy,

Buddy,

Jimmy,

BART.

He's with his bud now & they are hangin'

around together just like old times.

A Beautiful August!

2011-08-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

It is such a simply beautiful start to the month.

And still another batch of babies,

this just might make six so far this year!

The days are hot.

The nights are cooler.

The garden looks better and better.

Is this not what summer is all about!

Enjoy every bright and bountiful moment....

We're all one big happy "family"!

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

Well, it's been one week since Moose

has arrived in the house.

He is now 10 weeks old and

he has the run of the property!

I think Bart and Zuzu have come

to realize that this pup isn't going

to be leaving anytime soon.

They have very nicely

accepted him into their pack.....

perhaps Bart is a bit stoggy

because of his age but then

that's Bart!

This week he is 3 tiles long.

Meet Moose!

2011-07-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

We have wanted to get another

friend for sometime now and today

was the day.

Moose is an Austrailian Shepherd,

nine weeks old .

He has integrated nicely with

Zu and Bart.

I guess blogs like this will help reinforce

the reality of how fast a puppy grows!

Where else?....New York City!

2011-07-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

It could have been anywhere,

but I wanted to see the Statue of Liberty.

The seashore is calming

but who can turn their backs on NYC!

A weekend was long enough to see the sights.

Leaves room to return and eat more and see more...

Spring is fading into SUMMER! Yeah.....

2011-06-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

Well, Spring started out so nice.

There were robins making nests and

laying eggs all around the house...

in pine trees, in bushes and on the

porch on top of the rain gutter.

Babies were hatching everywhere

and keeping their Moms busy with

their never-ending hunger.

Presently, we have a cardinal,

who has made a nest in the wisteria vine

outside the garage window.

Three blue-speckled eggs are snuggled

under Mom.

The Memorial Day parade this year was

exciting as the Civil War Encampment group

participated and brought goosebumps to many.

And, what would a town parade be without our

high school marching band!

Yucky mushrooms are trying to take over

the mulch pile - but they won't succeed......

and ending Spring with Bart and the American flag can't say

anymore about how excited I am to welcome

SUMMER !

SPRING IS HERE!

2011-05-05T06:42:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my world of spring.

The garden is no secret just yet.

Altho' we've had our share of rain

and wind and sun, spring is right on track.

There has been an attack of the feeders by

a throng of goldfinches. How enjoyable it is

to look out and be awed by their brillant color

and amused by their joyful play.

Flowers and blooms everywhere!

Tulips, bleeding heart, apple and cherry blossoms,

money plant and even Bart seem to be loving

the warmth of the sunny days.

I hope we are in awe and are in love with

all the world has to give us.

Birthday time!!!!

2011-03-27T17:51:00.001-07:00

Well, before birthday time, it's

happy SPRING TIME!

Days and months have passed

and birds have begun to fly again north.

Finally the bulbs have decided

to show their lovely faces.

Now it's time for wishing my

lovely daughter the happiest

birthday ever!

Lauren, Happy Birthday!

It's still winter.....

2011-02-22T06:50:00.001-08:00

and the snow is still falling.

Temperatures are growing colder.

But the sun is still shining,

The trees are glistening,

and spring will be here

in due time!

Passing

2011-02-08T05:40:00.001-08:00

time heals all.

memories are made but not forgotten.

the warmth of their touch.

their presence in our life gave us new life.

they were ours, and we were theirs -

always & forever.

Somethings to keep your paddies warm!

2011-02-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to let everyone in on my little secret....

these fingerless gloves.

Some friends of mine have been keeping

their hands warm this winter with a pair of them.

I think I have made, at least, six or seven pair &

more are still to come.

I found a pattern years ago from

"Midnight Knitter". Don't know if you can still

get on her web site. It had great directions,

very easy to follow, plus the photo was eye-catching

and so colorful.

Whether you use wool, acryllic, cotton or a mix,

they come out comfy.

You can also add your own "spin" to them on the cuff.

KEEP WARM!

It's January in my little corner of the world.....

2011-01-29T12:43:00.000-08:00

welcome to the wonderful world of snow

in central Pennsylvania.

It's been a day of falling flakes today

but not much different than the past week.

How lovely it is to wake and see a stunning

sight outside your window - white, crisp, sharp,

fresh, even a bit nippy, but they all go together so well.

Time for snowmen (that kind of resemble dad),

snow on the nose,

neighbor's horses,

leftover Christmas baubles iced with snow,

and another birthday for Zuzu!

We'll miss it when it's gone and we are

sipping our ninth glass of iced tea, under the shade

of the chestnut, with the temperature near ninety!

LITTLE GIRLS WITH WARM WISHES!

2010-12-29T15:33:00.001-08:00

These little gems were keeping

toasty while they were waiting

to be given to their deserving friends.

The holidays have been so bright

and full of goodness, you can

see it in the little one's eyes

and rosy cheeks.

I do hope they are keeping their new

owners cheery and joyful!

Oh, well, it's CHRISTMAS WEEK!

2010-12-21T05:28:00.001-08:00

Zuzu can express many emotions,

but today she has shown us

that Christmas is not really

one of her favorite holidays.

Oh, she loves the cookies and food,

and helping to decorate the house outside.

But presents and paper and unwrapping

doesn't do much for her.

Let's just say she loves the calm

that comes after a long and delightful

Christmas morning.

Sweet dreams, Zu....

It's Holiday House time......

2010-11-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the annual

Duboistown Holiday House.

Held every year in the student lounge

of Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa.

It surely gets everyone into the holiday

mode and begins moving the Christmas

gears in our brains.

No, it's not too early -

why, Thanksgiving is in four days!

And quickly after we indulge in

turkey -stuffing - gravy - pie,

we are starting to dream of what's to come

in the weeks ahead.

The theme this season was inspired by weddings.

The trees and accessories were everything

a bride and groom would hope their day would showcase.

And as every person has a unique interpretation,

the displays didn't let us down.

Enjoy the lovely scenes,

Dream of what's to come,

Shrink yourself into the matchbox dioramas,

Pretend to be there with us

and enjoy every moment of Christmas!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU....

2010-10-29T21:23:00.000-07:00

MY SWEET ANNIE!

A daughter who loves travel,
her Zuzu,

her crafting and designing,

and her family.

Love & Kisses to you!

This is Fall

2010-10-18T05:54:00.001-07:00

...in my little corner of the world.

Beautiful, crisp, sunny,

colorful, warm, breezy -

what more could you want!

We like to think this is God's

palette, giving such color to the world.

Although it may not be as bright this year,

it is nonetheless as magnificent.

Creating a new world for just a short

length time.

Mesmerizing!

Heart Walk for Finn and Fun!

2010-09-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here's Finn and his gang -

Yesterday we did a Heart Walk

in Bethlehem, PA, for this guy named Finn.

He was co-chair of the walk with another BIG Guy,

Darrell Dawkins!

Finn has been through alot in his life thus far,

having had a few heart operations, transfusions,

many trips to CHOP(children's hospital

of philadelphia), consultations, etc.

Things many of us will never have to

submit to in our lives.

So we thought we'd walk a few miles and

donate our time to his cause -

The American Heart Association.

Crafts, Cars and Great Big Carriers!

2010-09-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

What a great day in Muncy,

the annual Corvette show was

smack in the middle of Main St.

Along with many crafters and

artists, there was plenty of

food and good things to eat.

And the morning gave way to

the aerial GIANTS.

The Rotary Balloon Festival

was also held today.

Fall has just begun!

The colors of fall in my life...

2010-09-17T05:54:00.001-07:00

cool rides, plentiful harvests,

beauty in the garden,

companions of the earth and sky,

we live in one beautiful world.

We rode and remembered......

2010-09-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, we rode for 37 miles,

thru city and country,

with our flags and heads

held high.

We showed our support for those
who will never be again.
We showed how much we love our
country.
We showed that we will never,
ever forget September 11, 2001.

9-11 Ride

2010-09-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

In three days,

we will all remember a day

we wish never happened.

There will be sounds of silence

all over the world but none

will be more meaningful than

those in the United States of America.

In Williamsport and surrounding towns,

we will be a small part of the nationwide remembrance.

But our sounds will be LOUD and CLEAR!

For nine years, the "9-11 Ride" has taken place

along a 37 mile route in the susquehanna valley;

this year it is expected to be the largest to date.

Open to motorcycles only, the ride pays tribute

to those lost on 9-11 and those who have given their lives

for our country.

As a past participant in the ride, I can only

describe the feeling of seeing the thousands of people

along the route, with flags and other patriotic symbols,

as moving, with goosebumps, no words can express.......

It's getting to be that time again....

2010-09-05T16:48:00.001-07:00

time for the fall festivals,

time to harvest the fruit and veggies.

Time to stack the wood and

get the bonfires roaring.

Maybe even time to start looking

for the first colored leaves on the ground,

or in the trees.

Heaven knows the acorns are telling us

autumn days are coming!

Happy Birthday.....

2010-09-01T18:47:00.001-07:00

to me!

Our Annual Pilgrimage to -

2010-08-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

BEAD FEST 2010

Nothing beats the feel of tons and tons

of colored beads.

Grab a handful of glass, stone, plastic,

metal, ceramic, etc.

Oh what fun we had.

Trying to make the longest necklace in the world...
one bead at a time.

Finally I got him/her....

2010-08-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

You know, I've been trying,

and trying to capture the alluring

monarch for most of the summer.

They're flirty and fast and busy

getting the most out of each flower.

But today, I got lucky...

There were others out this morning, too.

And the peaches are almost ready! Yummmm...

IT'S BIRTHDAY TIME!

2010-08-19T06:48:00.001-07:00

What's the latest buzzzzzzzzz?

It's birthday-time. Guess who?

Still bringing sweet music to our ears all these years!

It's almost time for the grapes!

2010-08-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

The garden is full of itself.
Busy bees, moths, butterflies & boys...

This year it should be fun making our own wine

with our resident novice winemaker.

And when it's all done,
we'll be ready for cookies and peaches and plums and much more!

It's August and it's BEAUTIFUL!

2010-08-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is the month when lots of

activity takes place....

in the garden...

in the house...

in the mind...

everywhere!

THIS IS WHAT SUMMER MEANS TO ME...

2010-07-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

It began with the fourth of July,

and continues still.

We got past all the hot, humid

summer temperatures and are now

on to the real days of the season.

Mornings are mellow and afternoons

have a quiet peace when everything

moving takes a break.

We miss alot when our minds are cluttered.

Dust out those cobwebs of your mind.

Let real life paint the picture you

should be viewing now.

So now you have been to my

summertime.

Take a look at yours and be glad!

My Summer Days

2010-07-12T06:36:00.001-07:00

Mohegan Sun was a lovely place to celebrate Granna's birthday.
Nothing less than your contemporary sculpture gracing the lobby.

Finally the sunflowers have begun to show their happy faces.

Sunday afternoon with Zu.

Catching a moth on the flowers.

Catching a great glimpse of Bart - as he truly is.

Yummy Fourth!!!!

2010-07-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Now Fifi was ready to celebrate.

But after she was caught on the table,

she changed her mind.

Smotherin' good, juicy ribs,

honey flavored baked beans,

pasta salad with the works,

and the best part of the day -

the traditional flag cake...

however, this cake had a hidden surprise -

it was all CHOCOLATE!

Zuzu

2010-06-30T06:25:00.001-07:00

You need to know this was the very first time

we vacationed with a pet.

It was a challenge thinking about the

possibilities before we left.

But once on the road, it was smooth sailing.

A couple of stops for both Zu and us -

food and potty breaks - and we were there!

She quickly learned the waves were ok.

She was walking in water by day two.

Playing "stick" in the early hours on the beach

was pure joy.

Even the sun and warm air was not a problem,

as long as the umbrellas were opened.

Would we do it again? You betcha'!!!!

Ahhhhhhhh the beach...................

2010-06-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

Cool, refreshing, breezy,

takes your breath away,

sand and salt in your hair,

crashing waves,

calming sunsets.

At the beach,

where all thoughts are forgotten.

Time is not kept.

Days of the week are not known.

Can a picture tell a thousand stories,

you decide.

Summer's begun for me.....

2010-06-04T09:45:00.001-07:00

2010-05-09T13:39:00.001-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2010-05-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

The day is a cold one here in central Pa. but it couldn't be better even if it wasn't Mom's day.

Looking outside, everything is green, GREEN, and the spring

flowers are beginning their triumphant entrance into

the earth's air.

My annual favorite has to be Lily of the Valley....

there is no other scent that brings the mind to the

season of spring.

I have already begun to harvest the violas and pansies, to

press for future cards or pictures.

I love to squish them between the sheets of blotter paper,

and to wait and see how pretty they flatten.

Speaking of blossoms...

I will tell you the sweet story of the

Bleeding Heart blossom in my next post.

For now, enjoy my garden -

It's time for Pysanky and Pussywillows!

2010-03-23T17:04:00.001-07:00

and Bunnies, too.....

enjoy the beauty of

my Ukrainian heritage.

Buzzy days of spring!

2010-03-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

It's hard to imagine it took only

a few days to have my flower beds

look like this....

There arose a competition for some

fresh pollen, first of the year stuff.
My goodness they were working their little
wings off, swooping in and out of each crocus.

Even Mr. Big BumbleBee came out for

all that good pollen.

I must say he was just lovin' being

all covered up with the yellow gold!

Alas, the bounty of beauty in the sparkling

sun of St. Patrick's Day.

They're here!!!!!

2010-03-13T15:47:00.001-08:00

Spring has sprung in Muncy!

With the warm weather the last few days,

tiny bulbs and plants have started their

uncovering from the winter blues.

I was surprised to see the plumeria

opening it's pretty pink blooms so early.

Must be in a nice, warm soil this year.

The early crocus are on the way

to showing off the their lovely

spring colors....perhaps by monday.

What would spring be without the

soft, fuzzy pussy willow!

My bushes are so full this year,

both black, yes, I said black, and

the gray - both straight and curled.

Just love to look and touch the branches

and even cut some to bring in to start in water

and also to put in arrangements.

If you don't own some, get out there now

and treat yourself to a plant or two.

Cuttings are so very east to start.

Now besides the pretty spring bushes opening,

what else reminds you that SPRING HAS SPRUNG?

The Best Kept Secret of Williamsport, Pa.

2010-02-21T06:37:00.001-08:00

Welcome to

Trimtex Mill Store in downtown

Williamsport, Pennsylvania,

home of the

Little League World Series!

Trimtex is the manufacturer of trims,

braids, ribbon - anything you can think of

to adorn your sewing, knitting, crocheting,

quilting, scrapbooking, card-making, etc., etc.

It's factory in Williamsport has had an outlet for

as many years as I have been living here.

We, Lycoming County residents, have been enjoying

their marvelous materials, at incredible low costs, and

now I want you to see what inspires us to CREATE !

The store is located in an old building in the center

of the city. Original high tin ceilings and wood plank floors

add to the warmth and serenity of the store, letting you relax and

take in the color and beauty of a delicate and intricate industry.

Grab bags are always available, you never know

what will be the special item this week.

One of my favorite things to look at in the store is in
the front window. An old trim machine.

The prices are unbelieveably inexpensive.
I can't tell you how cheap because I don't want to
start a stampede to the store. But it is an outlet store
and it truly is an outlet store.

As Ann makes her purchase, I'll leave you with
another photo of the store.
I think if you ever pass into Williamsport, Pa., for the
Little League World Series, business, pleasure or make a
special trip to Trimtex, you surely won't be disappointed.
You don't need alot of cash but you will need alot of time!

Remember:
Trimtex Mill Store
38 West 4th Street
Downtown Williamsport, Pa. 17701
(570) 322-4775

Open Monday - Friday 9am to 5:30pm
Saturday 10am to 3pm

IT SNOWED TODAY AND WE PLAYED!

2010-02-06T12:57:00.001-08:00

It was such a great day today

to go play in the snow.

Yogi and I had fun

making new trails for our skiis

and just enjoy being out in the sun.

On the other hand, Zuzu had more

interest in finding her sticks under

the snow. We found some of the BIG

ones and she was happy with those.

Loves the snow, especially on her nose!

We're looking forward to another snowfall

later in the week,,,,,,,YIPEE!

Four years and counting....

2010-02-04T06:16:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's been four wonderful years since Zuzu has been a part of our family. What better way to celebrate than with cake.....cookie cake? Cookie cake with dog treats, yummy!!

I think she had a fun time taking that sneaky lick of the cookie but instead of cake she had a peanutty chew - that lasted much longer than cake!

So when I decided to take some snippings of my black pussy-willow to bring in and force (yes, I did say black pussy-willow!),
it didn't open black but deep pink - almost deep red......a sign of something? a freak of nature? is there something in my soil? water? Strange but very, very pretty to have on my windowsill. I will just keep pondering and smiling as I enjoy yet another gift from above!

January day and things to put away....

2010-01-18T09:48:00.001-08:00

Well, these little knitted trees were hanging around for the holidays.

They were the new "try-me" ornament for this holiday season.

Altho' they weren't anything to knit up, they seemed to lack something........

maybe next year I will figure it out.

Ann did a great job this year for the bridal showcase at the Genetti yesterday.

Fresh flowers and a yummy buttercream iced cake...........cut me a piece now!

Her talent still amazes me.

What would life be without snow and Zuzu

2010-01-14T18:15:00.001-08:00

What a lovely happy day it is when snow is on the ground.

There are these wonderful "friends" who just love to go jumping in the snow and get their noses all

snowed-up!

And it's pretty lovely, too, to see all your beautiful

bells hanging around to catch some of that pretty

white stuff.

Snow, snow, please don't go - just yet!

What would Christmas be without a birthday!

2010-01-06T12:59:00.000-08:00

There's a new sheriff in this town,

and his name is Birthday Pat.

Loved by all,

especially his kids

(and me)and pets, especially Zuzu.

The ying and yang of it,

done by anng, I mean Ann, of course.

Wonderful day for a wonderful

Dad, husband, son, uncle and "master".

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat....

2009-12-17T19:08:00.000-08:00

and no one is getting fat...

not yet anyway.

Decorating is almost done.

The guys are keeping each other warm...

Cookies are beginning to get made.

Good 'ol St. Nick is keeping a close

eye on everyone, making sure we are

all being good.

One week from tonite we will all be

stuffed from the Christmas Eve dinner,

and will be awaiting the hour for mass,

and if all goes well........

Santa will have been here and joy will blanket our home.

Good night, and sleep tight, for now.

Happy, Happy, Snow, Snow

2009-12-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

December 5 -

we all had such fun in the snow today.

We really weren't supposed to get more

than an inch and we got more than three!

Happy! Happy!

Joy! Joy!

It would be so nice if the snow stayed

around for a few days but not to be, says

the weatherman......

but he was wrong once and he can be

just as wrong again!

The heavy, wet snow just makes everything so

shiny and beautiful and magical!

Even the boys were happy to be up

to their bellies in the white stuff.

And Zuzu liked it on her nose, instead!

Happy Birthday and Halloween!

2009-10-31T13:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Ann!

and

Happy Halloween....

one came before the other.

This one came first.

And this came the day after...

more of fall

2009-10-15T15:22:00.001-07:00

It is such a grand day today,

just before the rain and snow flurries fall.

The maples are a beautiful mesh of

golds and oranges.

So are the last of the marigolds.

And then there's Zu,

all ready to find a stick and play for awhile.

But we must not forget to take our one

and only pumpkin back to the house.

It was the only one we had this year.

Enjoy the beautiful sights of
my world here in Muncy!

Fall into my October

2009-10-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

I like to think this is a very special

place on earth, my little patch of heaven here.

Altho' the impatients are alive with color,

it will not last long.

Gnome forcasts rain and snow flurries

thru the night and perhaps thru the

weekend, oh, well, they are sighing their last

breath of the season....

Buddha reminds me there is a little gourd

that needs a home.

All our feathered tennants have left now

and will return to feed off the flower heads thru

the fall and winter months.

It was a good thing that I stopped to capture

our old maple tree by the road before the wind and rain

took away it's beauty.

Enjoy my slice of life today!

A Magical Halloween home

2009-10-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my house.....

It's time again for a

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Enjoy our wonderfully

haunted house with

our favorite witch

welcoming you.

Everything under the sun.....or I should say shade

2009-09-29T16:41:00.000-07:00

It all starts with a bag of warm,

freshly roasted peanuts.

You may have to wait a few,

but it's very worth the wait.

The North Pole and Santa!

You bet, and you can even

lick the "icy north pole".

Tea Cups anyone?

The world famous Carousel -

do you think you'll be lucky and

catch the brass ring to receive

a free ride!

All made from wood....
but not Ann, at least I don't think she is!

All put away, nice and neat and

waiting for next year's little ones.

Ready and up, up, and away, fly

you to the moon and back....

and tomorrow we're on our way to

THE BEST OF THE BEST....

THE PHOENIX.

A GREAT day to be at............................

2009-09-29T06:35:00.001-07:00

KNOEBEL'S for the annual

WEIS Family Picnic!

Great weather!

Great rides!

Great food!

Come back,

you'll see what I mean.....

A Drive on a September Sunday!

2009-09-13T10:20:00.001-07:00

It's the middle of september and it feels like fall is coming.

Altho' the trees look green and full, the air is a bit cool.

What could be better than taking it all in on a sunday afternoon
in the month of september!

Hair flying, engine hummin',
a little hand out to the guy passin' by,
jacket zipped up high to avoid the sting of a bug flying into your skin -
you're ready to breath in that clean, fresh country air.

This is life and life is good.

Happy Birthday to me!

2009-09-03T19:44:00.001-07:00

Of course September is the month of sapphire

and what could be more beautiful

than the blue morning glory

trumpeting for all to hear....

it's a birthday Day!

Everyone come and see the sweet cake

made for celebrating the Day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.........

2009-08-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Patrick, my dear son!

I can think of no one who deserves an
OREO cookie cake for their birthday but you!
Eat it all up now before the big, bad Dad
beats you to it..........................oops, I forgot,
he only likes the original and not the
double-stuffed!

Can you guess what time of year it is????????

2009-08-15T17:17:00.001-07:00

Do you think you know?

Right...................................

it's time for the Little League World Series.....

right here in the central Susquehanna Valley......

in South Williamsport, Penna., right outside my

back door, well, not exactly right outside, maybe

just a fifteen minute drive up and down the

mountain.

The hill in the outfield will look like this

for the next two weeks...............................

But who cares because Dugout will be there

every day! Yahoo!!!!!

She "assumes" only the very best!

2009-08-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

I love Our Lady and this Saturday is Her Assumption.

Truly an exceptional feast day in the catholic church.

Today I will share my visions of the blessings she has given to me....

Sunny Days of Sunflowers

2009-08-11T07:15:00.001-07:00

I can't begin to tell you how happy sunflowers make me feel.
They have these wonderful "faces" that can turn your day around.

Hope all these faces turn your day into a smile!

Crafty days

2009-08-05T07:01:00.000-07:00

Well, this is a crafty post.

Take a look at my new idea.

Cement leaves and they are a hoot to make.

Just love to try different colors on them.

Now for something completely different.

I had two really comfortable sweatshirts from

Cape May, NJ, that I couldn't part with because

they were so nice and soft.

After looking at them in the basement for years,

that's right, years, I decided to turn them into

pillows for the porch.

Ta-Da!~now every time I take a break, mostly

in my hammock, I will remember those wonderful

beach days in Cape May!

This pillow was made some

years ago and I really like the knitting

stitch I did. Of course, the yarn was pretty too.

Welcome to my...

2009-08-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love my garden.

In spite of all the weeds and bugs,
it is such a place of happiness and
peace.

There is a jungle where somebody
is always trying to hide and sneak
up on a prowler, like a chipmunk
or squirrel.

There's also a place for good luck!

Faded - yes - but not jaded.

Helping out the dear sweet singers of the

garden by offering them something cool

to drink.

What a lovely place to be.

When in Rome......

2009-07-12T13:27:00.001-07:00

So when in Rome, you do as the

Romans do, don't you?

Stay in a wonderfully,

luxurious hotel....

And have a few tastes at

the local winery with

your friends.

I think this trip is

worth every last red cent,

or should I say euro!!

ps. thanks for all the

pics, tara!!

They're OFF!

2009-07-09T07:16:00.001-07:00

Soon to be a trip of a lifetime.....

to Tuscany in Italy for a week!

Taking along something for the family there,
to remember them by.

However, there is someone who just isn't happy
about this whole situation...............but she will
be in about a week.

July's Frilly Flowers

2009-07-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day to capture

all the beautiful flowers growing

in my garden.

The most outstanding is the photo of

Mr. "Busy BumbleBee"

all covered with pollen and probably

ready to happily take a nap in the hollyhock.

I love to sit in the middle of the garden and

just watch all that's going on.....

Hope this gives you a good start to your week!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

Yep, this is the world's best Dad.

His view of life and his family in his life is

what makes my world a happy place.

The three offshoots and me don't know

where we would be today without you!

I'm sure everyone is thinking about their Dad
today and remembering all the times spent with
him doing fun stuff.
Dad's are great but sometimes it takes us a long
time to realize that.
I hope you tell your Dad how much he means to
you and how much you love him.

Don't wait - do it now.

We're back.

2009-06-20T18:28:00.001-07:00

After seven days of travelling the New England states, we have returned.

It was wonderful taking in all the beautiful scenery and meeting lots of lovely people who truly love their homeland.

Mountains, mountains and more mountains - each more breathtaking than the last - the topper: Mount Washington, NH. Although it was rainy, cold and foggy, and no one could see anything, just knowing you were on top of a mountain 6,288 ft. about sea level was worth the trip.

Another awesome place was the Olympic site of the 1980 games in Lake Placid, NY. Yep, we were on top of the 120 meter ski jump...........we now have an appreciation for the "GUTS" those jumpers have.

But let me tell you about one highlight of our trip. Quite an unexpected stop - happened upon by my daughter showing us an article in Architectural Digest. It is Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, VT. http://www.dogmt.com/ Go to the web site and be overcome with wonder and happiness. The creator and artist extraordinare is Stephen Huneck.

Pat and Stephen and me and a friend.

Just look at all the wonderful artwork behind us!

Go to the web site and let yourself be taken away to the hills of Vermont and Dog Mountain for a few minutes.

A Muncy Memorial Day

2009-05-30T05:49:00.000-07:00

A Memorial Day in Muncy is really quite the perfect example of how a small town shows it's patriotic pride.

Yep, we have the horses and flags and high school band...

And heros by the dozen - on land and sea and in the air. Marching side by side and remembering days long gone by.

And the "crowd", of course.

But what would a parade be without dogs!!!!

Can't help but also remember they were there in the many wars along side our "Heros".

They, too, helped in their own way to fight the fight..............for Freedom.

Thirty years and it seems like yesterday.......

2009-05-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it.

We beat the odds of staying together more than seven years.

It has been a wonderful, joyful, memorable,

without a doubt, the best decision I have ever made.

Three children, five dogs, twelve cats, two rabbits, two birds,

numerous rodents and many fish later....

I am looking forward to the next thirty.

To the love of my life,

XO Noony

They have all gone away........

2009-05-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

I certainly wish they would have stayed longer but onward and upward they must go...
my little wrens, that is.
They left the nest on Friday, with me being the instigator and having the first fly away.
After that, Mom Wren got the rest of them ready and off they were.

Mrs. Robin #1 has a crowded house still - the nest is overflowing.

Mrs. Robin #2 has hatched three of the four eggs.

And Mrs. Robin #3, in the rafters of the shed, has four beauties ready to crack.

Sorry I don't have pictures but the hard drive is being updated and will return in the next day or so. Until then.....

Remember all our HEROS of present and past wars and military situations.
They all gave the ultimate sacrifice so we may continue to live in freedom in this,
the most wonderful country on earth....The UNITED STATES OF AMERICA....long may she reign.

Wrens, robins, Zuzu and more.....

2009-05-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Wren's family is coming along very well.

All five babies are growing and still squished into my clothespin bag in

the garage.

Look at them all...sleeping, heck, no - move the bag alittle and their tiny mouths

open WIDE!

Now Mrs. Robin #1 has five little babies also.

They are doing real well, also, but I must admit they are quite a bit bigger than the wrens!

Still hanging out in the tall bush outside Patrick's window. I felt so bad for them last night when we had such a terrible storm and strong winds. But Lauren reminded me that Mom probably had them covered well.

Mrs. Robin #2, just don't know about her. She's still sitting on the eggs but nothing hatching yet.

Hide and seek?

Nope...just Bart being a picture hog again!!!

Zuzu keeping the grass warm and waiting

for someone to play with.

Goosels.....or geese

2009-05-12T05:41:00.000-07:00

Down by the pond, two geese families have added to their familes.

Family #1 increased by seven.

Family #2 increased by three.

We are just a gaggle of wildlife here!

They're here..............and more to come

2009-05-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

The wren babies are finally hatched.

There are five.

Can you see their little eyes bulging out from

their little heads..............

Wait there's more.........................

Mrs. Robin #1 on the side porch has four to go....

Mrs. Robin #2 in a bush in the front yard has

four to go...............

And one more nest in the rafters on the other side porch, Mrs. Robin #3, has two to go....perhaps she isn't done yet with laying............we'll see!

Wait there's more.....

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

Let's all take a moment and remember our "Moms"...

They may be with us to hold and kiss and hug.

They may be far away and thus not making it possible

to be next to each other.

And they may be really, really far away in a glorious place

where they are happy and glowing with grace.

Wherever your Mom is say a prayer for her,

close your eyes and visualize her,

now take a deep breath and tell her you love her!

A bleeding heart.....such a good symbol for this day.

Mrs. Wren

2009-05-01T05:19:00.000-07:00

So, two weeks ago we had this surprise in our clothespin basket by the door in the garage.

Mrs. Wren decided to take over the basket for a few weeks and begin her family in it.

So far five eggs. Will keep you posted!

Spring has sprung...

2009-04-30T14:57:00.001-07:00

I can't begin to explain how wonderful it feels to finally look outside and see all this beautiful color and new growth taking place.

Dogwood flowers are open and smiling up to the sky.

Silver dollar (money plant) blossoms are so fresh and clean.

And what would we do without seeing and picking the purple violets that are covering just about

every field and byway these days.

Stop.

Look out your window.

Close your eyes and open them again.

Take in the present moment and remember it when things aren't going well.

Now go on and enjoy the rest of the day!

SpringTime in the field!

2009-04-16T15:39:00.001-07:00

On the saturday before Easter, there was a draft horse plow demo at Sones Farm and Home Museum, just west of Muncy (on the way to the mall). It was so wonderful to see these BIG guys doing what they love to do best. They were liking it alot; you can tell this by looking at the way they had their heads up and the way they were prancing through the field with such gusto.

The ground smelled good and brought out all our thoughts of planting and new life breaking up out of the ground. It's SPRING!

HAPPY EASTER!

2009-04-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

The sun in bright,

There is lots of light,

Everyone is smiling,

It must be time,

for the Easter Bunny to take flight!

Happy Birthday!

2009-03-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

To Lauren, Happy Birthday, to you!

What a wonderful person...daughter, sister, friend.

Pysanky everywhere!

2009-03-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

They are everywhere............in my plants, in my vases, behind glass doors.................pysanky!

Ukrainian people, like myself, have been doing the art of egg-decorating, pysanky/pysanka, for years and years and even centuries. It is a unique art which doesn't come easy; as those of you who have tried it can attest. But when you have accomplished your first egg, you will feel the pride and excitement we have been experiencing every time one gets completed. Or should I say, unveiled - which is what happens when the egg is 90 or 100% covered in wax at the end of the decorating and you must melt the wax off the egg to uncover/unveil the exquisite labor of love.

There are many stories behind the origin of the pysanka but my favorite is how a woman was taking her basket of eggs to market to sell when she saw Christ carrying his cross through the street of Jerusalem. Her grief so deep at the sight, she began to cry and her tears, upon falling on the eggs, created wonderful designs on the eggs.

The intricate designs/symbols on each egg tell stories of love, wealth, good crops, happy events and much more.

Some craft stores have a few supplies needed to make these easter fancies. You only need a stylus, beeswax, candle (lit), dyes and an egg. If you aren't able to find these locally, try the Ukrainian Gift Shop, www.ukrainiangiftshop.com. This family has been selling supplies and other Ukrainian items for many generations. I can attest to the quality of their pysanky-making materials.

After forty-five years of making pysanky and having my children all enjoy making at least one every easter season, I hope this post will enlighten others to try it and feel such awe each time you look at it in the palm of your hand.

SPRING AT LAST!

2009-03-16T06:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome Spring!

It's hard to imagine being graced by the sun all day long.

Shoots of the forsythia are ready to pop and the crocus and daffodils have opened their blooms.

Even the pussy willow has shown it's fuzzy catkins!

Long days, sunny days, even rainy days..............................Welcome Spring!

Mickey Rourke and I show our special friends

2009-02-22T17:18:00.000-08:00

Maybe Mickey Rourke bought his in some fancy Hollywood shop and paid mucho $$$$'s for his but I had mine first!

Handmade by my starving artist!

I think it's a really wonderful way to keep a special friend close to you forever!

Thanks, Mickey, for being so up front and honest about your special friend.

Sight for sore eyes

2009-01-28T07:02:00.000-08:00

Just when you think the snow isn't going to stop and there's going to be another day of cancelled school, I have found these lovely pieces of "eye candy" to help make the hard, crusty snow melt in your mind.

Ann has put her meticulous mind to work again and again and comes up with fresh, fantastical works of fun!

Let your eyes enjoy the beautiful colors and maybe by the time you look again out the window it will show signs of spring!

2009-01-26T06:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Zuzu!
It's been three years since she came to our home.
I can't begin to tell you how she has influenced each of our lives......all in different ways.
What would life be without a dog?
Boring, useless, spiritless, colorless, dull, meaningless.................must I go on?
I tip my hat to Purina and their Frosty Paws frozen treats for dogs. It took a few minutes but Zuzu, Bart and Yogi had a real good treat. They didn't even mind it was five degrees outside and they were eating ice cream inside!
Of course the birthday cake was for us (the dog treats for them); Ann did a great job as usual!
It was a wonderful birthday!

2009-01-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

It was in all her glory that we visited the beautiful St. Mary's Byzantine church today. So wonderfully amazing in color and majesty. I could have stayed there all day to take in the glorious feelings that spread throughout the church.

What an inspiration for upcoming pysanky work!

2009-01-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

What a way to start the 2009, icy-cold, windy weather!

This little guy sure tells it straight.

2008-12-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

What a great winter day to be outside with Zuzu!

The snow will be disappearing a bit today but we all enjoyed it very much!

And it will not be the last, perhaps only the first of many.

2008-12-26T17:42:00.000-08:00

It was a lovely Christmas day. Lots to see and do with everyone. This little lady was waiting to be unveiled and last but not least, here she is!
I think she could be a snow princess of some sort or even a winter helper for "You-know-who"!
Anyway, she will be watching over all my activity - reading, knitting, sewing, etc. - for the coming months.

Snow, snow, snow

2008-12-20T19:29:00.001-08:00

Falling from the sky or from the icing bag...............it's still snow!

2008-12-11T05:39:00.000-08:00

This is my blog. It is about everything in my world.