A Southern Belle Dishes on Decor

Antiques or just Old Furniture?

2011-09-15T16:43:00.000-05:00

This is another post for Roomspiration Blog Party. I love this party going on with all 12 blog sites for 12 days. It has ~~made~~ encouraged me to get my Fall decorations out this year. I start on Christmas in mid-November, so this way, I have 2 months of Fall!

Today is “View Along the Way” and that means the living room. Boo knows he shouldn’t be on this chair. It is one of the pieces that is off limits but he loves to watch me take pics. I really believe he poses…honestly. He will stay perfectly still to have his pic made. Rotten? Oh yeah.

Today, we’re in the Living Room. I don’t do a lot of Fall in the living room. We have several antique pieces in here and I’ve gone with a historical theme with my decorations. Mr. Dumpling and I name our antiques. You’re laughing…aren’t you? We name them where we buy them.

For example, this is the Jefferson secretary (Jefferson, TX). We have some of Hull pottery in this and the vintage stick and ball easel on the side.

The Carnes bookcase/china side by side. (bought at auction in Lufkin, TX at Carnes auctions). We have some of our Roseville pottery in here and some of my fave books with the White House theme and books by or about First Ladies.

The Canton Hall Tree (Canton, TX). If you haven’t been to First Monday at Canton, TX, you are missing more fun than a barrel of monkeys. Held the first Monday (and preceding weekend) of each month with over 100 acres of everything you can imagine! We have purchased some wonderful items there plus scads of decorating junque. Junque is high class flea market.

After I took this pic, I noticed the reflection in the mirror. Fun surprise!

For Fall, I decorate the Shreveport mantel (auction), coffee table and tea cart. I just love tea carts and have them scattered everywhere.

Don’t you love the way the colors change when the lamp is on?

This year, I changed up the Canton mantel.

I used Roseville Bushberry pattern pottery for the center. I really love this pottery and it just pops during the Fall. I’ll do a later post with some pics.

Added autumn sprays

my cherub waterfall lamps and new mercury candle lanterns.

and some fern mini lights. I forgot I even had these two strings of lights. So glad to find them!

On the oak lamp table, I brought out what is typically Thanksgiving decorations and used them now. I love pilgrims and these are holding pumpkins. Fall right?

I placed them on a ceramic corn platter and used one of my favorite cake stands. There are a number of pieces that use this stand. I have a few pieces and would love to find more!

For the coffee table, I made a new table topper. I found the fern fabric and printed/fringy ribbon at Hobby Lobby. Oh how I love Hobby Lobby. The white pumpkin is also a Hobby Lobby purchase and I placed it on a cake stand.

This pumpkin makes me think of a pound cake. See the resemblance? One of Mr. Dumplings aunt’s made a huge pound cake on a regular basis. Family called it “the Big Cake”…sooo good. I think of her when I see this pumpkin. Ok, so my mind takes some twists and turns. Stay with me!

Tomorrow we travel to Homemaker on a Dime for a bathroom tour. Hmm…I think I may show you the guest bath. I recently made a few changes in there.

See you tomorrow!

Step into Fall

2011-09-14T16:08:00.001-05:00

My inspiration for this post is the “Roomspiration” going on at 12 blogs for the next 12 days. The first event/party is “Abode Love” entryways.

I may be old fashioned but I love a foyer. Some may view it as wasted space but it really is an introduction of your home and who you are. It is the first place I start to decorate each holiday and then I move to other rooms. I spread seasonal decorations just about everywhere. It’s like a sickness…but I don’t think I want to be cured!

I am on a HUGE burlap kick, so, of course, the library table has burlap. I purchased it in large rolls and wish I had bought more!

And still more burlap! I found these burlap covered fruit at Marshall’s. Loving the simple look of the burlap in the white bowl.

You’ve seen my white glass box before. I’m still not satisfied with it and may tweak it a little more.

The green leaf dish is new…a find at Marshalls. Hmm, that was a lot fuller with Candy Corn when I fixed it. Oh Mr. Dumpling?

The entry was changed up this year with the purchase of an antique cabinet. I like the cabinet but it’s not working for me as I hoped. However, it is all decked for Fall as well. I am just loving white pumpkins and I have for years. Some of these I’ve had a long time and a few things are new.

Did you notice the large plant in the foyer? I have kept it alive for well over a year. It was sent when Mr. Dumpling’s father passed and I have managed to keep it healthy and growing! This is a major accomplishment for me. Plants always get those brown tips when left in my care.

We purchased the antique oak Pier mirror in Canton, TX many years ago. I designed a special place for it in the foyer. It was originally from an old hotel in Kansas City. Ladies needed these mirrors to make sure their skirts were long enough. It’s one of my favorite pieces we have. I’ve seen OnlySon and best friend BigH primp in front of this mirror before heading out for a night out with the girls. Don’t think for one moment that boys don’t do this!

Still a few things to do but that’s basically it for now. Tomorrow…I will belatedly join the Living Room party “View Along the Way”. Come back!

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Labor Day Table

2011-09-08T07:06:00.002-05:00

How did I get behind? Have you had a week that just seemed to fly by and you really don’t know where it went?

We are enjoying cooler temps and it has just been heavenly. For Labor Day, the kids came in. Since it was cool, I thought it would be nice to eat outside. There’s nothing I like better than a red, white and blue table on the front porch.

I’m loving burlap; however, don’t get me started on my black burlap fiasco. Sigh. Anyway…I decided to make a quick little table topper. Our Super WM has started carrying fabric and ribbon again…yay!! Knowing that I wouldn’t be washing this, I used fabric glue for the ribbon. Quick and oh so easy!

I knew I would be using my Uncle Sam nutcracker. I’ve had him for years and use him for my patriotic holidays. He just makes me smile.

He’s standing on my ruby red cake plates. I got these dirt cheap one year at Hobby Lobby. Now the fun starts with layering all the pretties. I started with my white metal chargers and then one of my Noritake patterns. It has the loveliest colors.

Next we had red napkins and some new plates I just purchased from Marshall’s. Yep, that evil store Marshall’s lured me in again. I just can’t stay away from their china section.
To the left, you see my mother’s ruby glass bowls. These were our traditional Christmas fruit salad bowls but perfect for this table.

I really was blessed that my mother adored glassware. She also had this King’s Crown collection. Love the sparkle!

Fortunately, we had a wonderful drenching rain which settled a lot of the dust. However, since I set the table early, I thought my little plate domes would be fun and also keep the plates clean.

I added some candles and voila! I'm loving using the canning jars for candles. I've added white beans to these but the possibilities are just endless! We’re ready for an easy dinner outside.

I’m so ready for Fall, tailgating, picnics in the crisp air, Geaux Tiger football and some pretty leaves. What do you love about Fall?

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Have you fallen in love with Pinterest like I have? It is the most addicting thing since chocolate!!!

Goodbye Summer!

2011-08-23T10:19:00.004-05:00

This has been one long hot summer in the south! Did I mention dry? No rain? Water conservation necessary. This grass used to be green! All of it! Now it is crunch. Grass shouldn’t be crunchy.

So, I’m sick of summer! This will be my very last summer theme post and then it’s “Bring on Fall”!! I love Fall…the crisp air, changing leaves, fires and just those gorgeous colors we decorate with in the Fall.
I brought out some placemats I’ve had for a while but never used. They were a Goodwill purchase and just too cheap to pass up.

Now don’t ask me why, but every time I see these mats…I start singing Blue Hawaii. If you know me in “real life”, you’re not even surprised. My mind goes down a lot of paths at one time. Do you do that too?

Blue Hawaii….Elvis…1961. I went to the theater with my mother (so much fun). She was a HUGE Elvis fan, so of course, I was too. Just for giggles, let’s watch the trailer for the movie. You’ll enjoy it…I promise! Love the clothes and scenery! Ok…and his grin.

Now wasn’t that a fun way to end the summer? I actually saw him twice and I’ve been to Graceland twice. I’m not a groupie….really…a fan…only a fan. Have you been to Graceland?

This is a pic of OnlySon and me on 8/16/1987 (10th anniversary date of his death) with his pink jeep. Hey, don’t laugh. I bet you dressed like this too in 1987!

Ok, back to the table. Using the Blue Hawaii dirt cheap placemats, I set the table. First, I layered my mother’s tablecloth. See that lace? My grandmother added lace to everything and I do mean everything!

Then the placemat, clear charger (WalMart) and some of my favorite plates! Pastel Petalware was made by MacBeth-Evans from 1930 to 1940.

The centerpiece is from my living room coffee table. I added the lacey seaweed candles. You just can’t have too many candles!

I made a recent find at the Dollar General. Yes…we call it THE Dollar General, like THE Wal-Mart. I adore colored flatware…any color. I found these summery bright green sets for $5. Well, I had to have them.

I added my sweet MIL’s glasses she just gave me. I was truly blessed with my MIL. She lives a few miles away in a nursing home and is 92. Sharp as a tack!

So let’s put it all together!

Remember the Blue Hawaii? I remember him using blue/green together so that inspired the two napkins. My first college room was blue and green…1971…now you know my age. I keep digressing on this post. I think it started with Elvis.
Sparkling napkin rings:

It was just too hot to eat outside until dark. Here’s some night time shots:

I love playing with Picasa and trying new effects. This was a partial blur. Very romantic.

Canning jar candles

I forgot to take pics of the food but we had chicken salad wraps (using Flatout bread…loved it) with avocados, potato salad, chips and salsa.

My little buddy wanted to be outside with us so badly but he’s a car chaser. How pitiful is that little face?

Next week, I’ll be doing a patriotic table for Labor Day. After that, all Fall tables!!!

Aloha….

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Monday Cottage
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Flaunt It Friday
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Pink Saturday

Oceana–Shell we dance?

2011-08-17T20:05:00.003-05:00

Say what? Well, Oceana is a pattern by Fitz and Floyd…a “shell” pattern. I adore it! We bought this at an auction held on scenic Cane River in Natchitoches. So many goodies that day and I loaded up!

The table setting today is in honor of Only Son and Miss E who have now been married two years. Do you remember your second anniversary? Hmmm…thinking.

Anyway, they married on the beach in Florida, so I tried to bring in things from either the Rehearsal dinner or the wedding…or at least copy it!
So what did I use?

A cream pearl beaded table topper with a soft green openwork topper I just purchased in Panama City this summer. The lacey candles are from Hobby Lobby and I used these on the Rehearsal tables.

Pearl round placemats…I use these a lot cause I love them. (Dillard's)

Lavender chargers and plates (Penney’s)

White Shell salad plate (Marshall’s)

First Love silver (get it…first love?) I love a good theme.

First Love Goblets

Miss E used gorgeous silver lanterns from Pottery Barn so I had to work in a lantern of course.

The original:

And the copy:

I found this cute shell charger on vacation in FL this summer. Mr. Dumpling collects antique opalescent pitchers. This one is by Northwood called Daffodil, along with a sun purple syrup for the Blackberry Simple Syrup.

The glass vases were borrowed from a cousin. Do you know what they are? These were used in Morgan and Lindsay…glass placed on top. They were shelf holders. We filled them with gorgeous colorful flowers…more about that later.

Add other miscellaneous items and this is what we get!

Found this at Tuesday Morning.

And to represent the sea oats on the beach…and no, I didn’t pick them. Those signs on the beach warn really bad things to you if you do that!

For more fun…have you heard of Shutterfly? I love to use them for my photo books. I do them for vacations, etc.….and of course, a record of the wedding week.

They are so easy to compile (I’ll show you a few pics). If you join the site (free), you will get some great discount offers. I just looked and if you sign up now, you get 40 free 4x6 pics. No, I’m not being paid…I really love this site!

The front:

The back:

Sweet cousins who traveled to FL to help! See the vases?

I'm sharing this with:

Monday Cottage
Tabletop Tuesday

Wed Wow Us
Wednesday Open House

Linkin with Lil Luna
Whatever Goes Wed
Tablescape Thursday

Vintage Thingie Thursday
Strut Your Stuff Thursday
Boost My Blog Friday
Flaunt It Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Inspiration Friday
Home Sweet Home Friday

Southwestern Grilled Burgers

2011-08-15T07:41:00.049-05:00

I love for Mr. Dumpling to grill! That's not to say Mr. Dumpling loves grilling...but he will. I find the recipes and he cranks up the grill!

Our latest endeavor is a recipe from Taste of Home. I do love a good Taste of Home recipe. This is a scrumdiliumptious hamburger!

Southwestern Grilled Hamburgers

1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilis
4 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
3/4 tsp. garlic powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 lbs lean ground beef
3/4 (I used l lb) bulk pork sausage
8 slices Monterey Jack cheese
8 hamburger buns
lettuce
tomato
1 to 2 ripe avocados, sliced

1. In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Add beef and sausage, mix well. Shape into 8 patties. (This makes 8 nice size patties).

2. Grill, covered, over medium heat for at least 5 min on each side. Top each patty with cheese and grill a few more minutes until cheese melts.

3. This is a MESSY hamburger with the avocado. I ate mine two ways...with a fork and then again with the avocado on the side. I think I preferred on the side...but you must have the avocado!!

I forgot to take a pic. (blush) but I found one that looked like it on Flickr on Creative Commons. Have you heard of Creative Commons. (Be sure to take a look after you finish here!)

Wow, great pics there. Just look to the side for their copyright preference. Most are free (I love FREE) to use uncropped and credited. Bookmarking this for future use. Once you sign in to Flickr, you can add the pic straight to your blogger post.

hello my sliced-up, hamburger-topping lovelies, a photo by emdot on Flickr.

I usually post on these "parties"

Monday Made with Love
Mouthwatering Monday
Homemaker Monday
Hunk of Meat Monday
Monday Melt in your Mouth
Delectable Tuesday
Tuesday Time Out
Dr. Laura Tasty Tuesday
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday
Tuesday to Do
Made From Scratch Tuesday
Totally Tasty Tuesday
These Chicks Cooked
Wow Us Wednesday
What I Whipped up Wed
Whatever Goes Wed
Wed Share the Wealth

What’s Black and White and Pink all over?

2011-08-12T16:33:00.006-05:00

So what is black and white and pink all over? Today’s Tablescape that’s what!! You thought I was going to say something like “a sun burned zebra didn’t you”. Well, what about zebra flowers? Hmmmm. You never know.

Next week, Mr. Dumpling and I will be married 36 years. That’s a long time these days to be with the same person. “Most” days, he’s a keeper. Now on those other days….

So, I strolled down Memory Lane this week and recreated some of our wedding décor. Now, keep in mind…1975. We were college sweethearts with a year left in school. This is what a 1975 wedding looked like…you know there’s going to be floppy hats don’t you?

And this is where my blessings begin! My maternal grandmother made every dress in that picture except mine and one bridesmaid. She made my veil, a lingerie set and even my going away outfit. She was a talented woman beyond measure and I’m so thankful God blessed my life with her. I have precious memories.

Let’s look quickly at the picture. Two candlelighters on the left (pink daisy sheer material with PINK daisies). By the way, one of them now has 4 children and the other is a grandmother. Sigh. I’m old. Flower girl has same material and basket has PINK daisies. Bridesmaids have white and PINK daisy trim on the dresses and the hat.

Are you picking up a theme? PINK daisy bouquets and wrist corsages.
So, with that in mind, I had to have PINK daisies on my table…black and white for the tux’s…and I’m off and running to Hobby Lobby. Don’t you adore Hobby Lobby?
So for our anniversary celebration…this is what I came up with. Let’s take it a step at a time.

I started with a gorgeous vintage table linen made by the same maternal grandmother “Ma Jessie” and my mother. My mother did the embroidery! What a treasure to me.

Even the underside is neat. I’m happy to know Mother took the time to do this so well.

Table was made my hand. Look at the tiny stitches my grandmother made.

Then I added pearl placemats from Dillards:

Chargers from Penney’s:

My Lenox Butler’s Pantry plate…I use this set all the time cause I love it.

A black and white toile salad plate from Marshall’s:

And a special green Fruits Depression glass sherbet. We bought a set of this pattern for our 5th wedding anniversary.

Goblets are Franciscan or Fostoria (memory dims) but purchased one Christmas by our parents.

I made the napkins! Yes, I really did. Don’t try to see if the stitching is even please.

I also tried it as a silverware pocket but came back to just folding it. I thought I saw more color that way.

Now let’s add silverware, flowers (remember the ZEBRA comment above?)…and some more pretties…and this is what we get!

The silver tray with the pink Depression salt and peppers was used at our wedding.

I saw the blinged out zebra print flowers and just flipped. It was an “ah ha” moment when everything came together!

This pic below was just for fun. I was playing with Picasa which I love…and tried one of their effects. Fun stuff!

And just to add, the Pink Depression Lemonade pitcher with the lid belonged my paternal grandmother “Ma Vera”…so this really was a evening planned with precious memories…and the hope of many more blessed years together.

This Pink Saturday is joined with the Miracle Makeover. The theme was to write about a blessing in our own life and God has blessed me many times over. Our inspiration for Miracle Makeover is Charlie. If you have time, what this inspiring video. Leave some comments as directed by Beverly...better yet, add a post and raise money for this worthy cause!

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Time Travel Thursday
Vintage Inspiration Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Pink Saturday
Monday Cottage

$1 plate Inspires a Table

2011-08-11T07:14:00.003-05:00

Mr. Dumpling and I adore antiquing. Not so much in the HOT HOT summer in a building that is not air conditioned…but in a pinch…it will work. After shopping in some outdoor HOT flea markets, we headed to a nice a/c mall in Center, TX. Love the old TX towns with the downtown center square.

So, I found these old plates. Sign said there were 6 but I only found 5. Dilemma? Not hardly! The SET was only $1.00. Yep, that’s right…$1 for 5 plates.

What was the charm? First of all, they were white. Now I am a sucker for white plates. Second, they were unusual with a little “well” on one side. Third, the plates were made in Czechoslovakia and I thought that was neat.

I used some of the veggie linens I had previously purchased at Marshall’s…the best store on the planet. Seriously, I seem unable to go in there and come out empty handed.

Red plates came from Marshall’s several years ago.

Purple vases were a steal at Hobby Lobby on the 80% off aisle. I think I paid .69 each. I added a yellow daisy…and snuck in a little LSU Geaux Tiger color! Did you know it’s almost college football time? I digress.

Remember I earlier mentioned the HOT flea market? Well, I scored there for sure! Green napkins were $3 for the set…and then I spotted this white box loaded down with mardi gras beads. I almost missed it! Bought it for $15 and I was almost dancing!

I knew I had a matching piece already…yep, the cookbook holder. Don’t you love when a plan just comes together? I filled it with raffia, veggies, fruits and candles. Love that I can change it in so many ways!

The tall bird candle holder was a purchase from a local store. It had been $69 and I scooped it up for $18. It was brown but I had plans. After a few coats of Heirloom White paint…voila!

Put it all together and this is what you get!

I did actually cook some artichokes…and made a butter garlic sauce. Yes, I cooked them just so I could use my plates but they really were yummy.

So do you “Flea Market”? I bought a lot (and I do mean a LOT) of goodies on this trip…I’ll share later.

Good to be back after vacation and then a broken computer!

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Driff Roses–Green Thumbs UP!

2011-08-10T16:59:00.002-05:00

Let me start by saying...I adore roses! Any shade, any type. I can never have enough roses.

Always on the lookout for a new rose, we stumbled upon Driff roses this spring. Mr. Dumpling found them at a local farm store. He came home raving about them and off we go for the ~~boss~~, er, I meant me, to give an opinion. How do you decide what to plant? We always make the decision together...then we have no one to blame if it is a fluke!

We had already determined our Knock-out roses had outgrown the front beds. Don't get me wrong. They are gorgeous! They are actually TOO gorgeous! They have grown and grown and then grown some more. They were covering my front porch which I never wanted.

Sooo, we (meaning Mr. Dumpling) moved the roses to different locations in the yard. My contribution was trimming them back about a week before “we” moved them. I don’t let Mr. Dumpling trim. Look what he did to Mrs. B. R. Cant.
Before Mr. Dumpling trimmed it:

After he attacked it:

So, as we move along, you now know why Mr. Dumpling isn’t allowed to hold clippers.

We planted the Driff Roses in April and added more a little later for a total of over 20. We planted two types: the Apricot and the Peach. And how are they doing in the hideous heat of July and August? It’s over 100 here daily…and no rain. My Driff roses are just blooming away!! I love these things!

The Apricot Driff blooms in a solid pinkish/coral color. It makes a fuller bush and has not browned in the heat.

But my very favorite is the Peach Driff! Oh my, it does everything! It has a gorgeous variation of color. The flowers form little bouquets on the shrub rather than an all over bloom. I could just see a little flower girl with bouquets of these.

These are all the Peach and just look at the variations of color on one bush.

Boudreaux just begged to be in the post as usual. It’s so hot, he cut a quick trail for the house after he had posed.

The purple periwinkle came up wild from a previous year. I love the colors together.

So here’s a few pics from today. They’re hanging in there and I hope we plant some more in another bed. I love continuous color and can highly recommend these!

I love continuous color and can highly recommend these! Look for them if you do Fall plantings. They will be gorgeous in the Spring.

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Easy Olive Garden Spaghetti Sauce

2011-08-08T16:18:00.008-05:00

I've been using this recipe for spaghetti sauce for years now. This is so simple and gives a jar of spaghetti sauce a little extra perk. I'm all for easy!

This is also best if simmered in the crock pot all day. Could it be any better?

Olive Garden Spaghetti Sauce

2 lbs ground round
1 can stewed tomatoes, chopped
6 ou V-8 juice
16 ou purchased Spaghetti sauce
1 envelope onion soup mix
1/3 cup grape jelly

In a large skillet, brown beef. I usually add chopped onions. Stir in remaining ingredients. Simmer for 20 minutes.

If I have time, at this point, I place everything in the crockpot on low...and simmer until our evening meal. It's one of those things that tastes even better the next day!

You may notice in the pic...I'm missing V-8 juice. I was out. I add an 8 ounce can of tomato sauce if I'm out.

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Wed Share the Wealth
Thursday Somewhat Simple
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Sunday Well Seasoned

2011-08-08T12:48:00.001-05:00

Yea! We're back from vacation and my computer has been repaired. I've been taking pics like crazy and I'm ready to start blogging again.

Have I mentioned I have become completely addicted to Pinterest? Oh my. You can ~~waste~~ enjoy a LOT of time there!

Returning next week!

2011-07-22T07:37:00.000-05:00

We've been away on vacation in Baton Rouge seeing OnlySon and Miss E, the Gulf Coast (and the devastating effects of Katrina) and finally...Seaside Florida. Seaside has the most amazing water, lovely homes and delicious food.

I'll be back blogging next week when I put myself back together!

Eggplant, Peppers and Caladiums

2011-07-06T07:38:00.003-05:00

What do you think of when you think of Summer? The Beach (no), Swimming (no), Tanning (this pale skin?, no). I don't like Summer. I hate being hot. Yes, I'm aware I live in the South...and I'm counting the days for cool weather.
What part of summer do I enjoy? Tomatoes!! Squash! Fresh Produce! So with that in mind, we made our first jaunt to Lester's Produce. It's a wonderful place in the country among acres of old farm land.
This huge produce stand is placed under 100 plus year old trees and has been in business for 42 years. Lester’s is so popular…it was featured in Southern Living in June 2008.

Huge, gorgeous caladiums are everywhere.

It’s a place where you relax, enjoy the shade, the fountain and the scent of peaches.

That’s Mr. Dumpling headed over to the potatoes. The sign says “The best baked potatoes anywhere”…and he believed them. We’ll see.
We loaded up on eggplants, squash, peaches, potatoes, cucumbers...and peppers!

Have you priced red peppers lately? Around here, $1.99 to $2.99 is a typical price. Just too expensive. I make do with green. BUT these...50 cents each!
So we bought red and yellow peppers...a ton. After looking at them for a couple of days...I started chopping.
and chopped.
and chopped.
Did you know how easy it is to put up peppers? Of course, they lose their crispness but are wonderful to cook with. Here's a few tips.
Chop the bellpepper and place in a plastic bag. Do you leave it like this in a clump? Oh no.
After all are chopped, I get a paper plate. Flatten the bag, press the air out, seal and place on the plate. Continue stacking.
I freeze them like this and once frozen, stack them in the freezer. The joy of this is they are individually frozen within the bag. Just need a tablespoon? Voila. Need a whole pepper? Easy to cook and not in a frozen clump.
So that's what I do for fun in the summer. How many days until football season? Fall? Hmmmm.

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Outdoor Wednesday
Happy Rednesday
What I Whipped Up Wednesday
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Flaunt it Friday

June Tea Party w/Lefton Rose Chintz

2011-06-29T06:27:00.004-05:00

We’re going to have a tea party today! It’s not unbearably hot in the mornings. Let’s head out to the table.

Have a seat…I’ll turn on the ceiling fan just in case you get warm. The table is set with my Lefton Rose Chintz dishes. Made by Lefton starting in the 1960’s, this is one of my favorite Lefton patterns.

I’m using the Lefton snack plates. Some call them “Tea and Toast” plates and I really like that better.

Love the little bone dishes. Yes, I realize we have no bones at a tea party but I wanted to use them. They will serve as individual “wastebaskets” for the paper from the petit fours.

The vintage wicker tea cart was a find at Round Top, TX Antique show. Gosh, I love that place!! If you haven’t been, you are missing out!

I don’t have a Rose Chintz teapot so I’m using the coffee pot. I hope Emily Post isn’t rolling over somewhere.

Notice the yoyo table topper? I made that! Yes, I really did. One day, I’ll show you some of my yoyo crafts. I’m working on some pillow covers now for a wicker settee….easy peasy I tell you.
For the center of the table today, I used a vintage Plateau, cake plate and some silk flowers from Raz. I love almost everything Raz makes! I found these in Canton, TX…another place I adore to shop.

Let’s take a closer look at my Royal Doulton miniature ladies. Aren’t they just the cutest thing?

We should be having cucumber sandwiches. I really do love them but, eh, well, I ate the cucumbers yesterday. (blush) So, we will have coconut cake and petit fours and tea.

The delicate crocheted napkins also came from Canton. I’m using some of the mother-of-pearl flatware and mother-of-pearl napkin rings (eBay).
I must mention that Boudreaux has been complaining about this blogging taking too much time. Poor baby…this is how pitiful he can look:

I promised I would try to blog during his nap time and I would try to include him in the blog. And I thought OnlySon was spoiled!

Some of the Parties I usually share with:

Tuesday TableTop
Outdoor Wed
Wed Wow Us
TeaPot Tuesday
Linkin with Lil Luna
Whatever Goes Wed
Tablescape Thursday
Vintage Thingie Thursday
Strut Your Stuff Thursday
Boost My Blog Friday
Flaunt It Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday

Tablescaping–Ham and Eggs

2011-06-22T19:39:00.001-05:00

Today, let’s take a look at some dishes from one of my favorite Pottery companies…Blue Ridge Pottery. Blue Ridge pottery is handpainted pottery from the (insert year here). There is a pattern or two or MANY for everyone. Florals, fruits, peasants and farm scenes are just a few of the patterns you can find. You can tell we love Blue Ridge:

Today, I’m using a rare pattern with the Ham and Egg design. Since we have a farm near the house, this is a pattern near and dear.

The table is set for a “Farmhouse” breakfast. I’m using:
Metal white lacy chargers (eBay)
Bordello Green cabbage plates (eBay)
Placemats (Old Farmer Almanac Store)

Flatware – First Love International (1937-73)
Franciscan Yellow Goblet and Sherbet (.50 each at Garage Sale)

The chickens are made by Royal Copley. Pottery was sold in the “Five and Dime” stores in the 40’s and 50’s. The planters were used by florist for small arrangements.

Here’s another Royal Copley chick along with an egg scale. I love “General Store” type items. You can see this egg is a Large…and is exactly what the carton said. It really works!

The pottery bowl with the eggs is made by McCoy. It is called “Girl Watering Flowers”.

Every proper table needs a crumber! We found this set in a small shop in Leslie, Arkansas on one of our trips. It does have a monogram which happens to be my maiden name letter…SOLD! Gently scrape the crumbs off your table with the knife into the tray. Love it!
I folded a tea stained doily inside the pocket of a napkin. Placed the fork inside and used little metal chicks around the fork.

Thanks for visiting today. Come back and I may have actually cooked some “Ham and Eggs”!

Be sure to let me know in your post or email if you are a new follower. I always return the favor!

Sharing with:

Blog Party
Tablescape Thursday
Vintage Thingie Thursday
Strut Your Stuff Thursday
Boost My Blog Friday
Flaunt It Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday

My Life on the Front Porch

2011-06-21T20:52:00.002-05:00

I'm participating in the above HUGE BLOG Party this week. Today, our focus is porches, etc. Here's a few of my favorite pics taken over the last few years.

This was last year before we moved the Knock-out roses to the back.

Tablescape on the porch...serving Cajun style Red Beans and Rice.

A view of the left side. Peppermint Encore Azaleas are blooming and Jasmine is blooming on the back arbor.

A view of the right side of the porch. Over here, the Christmas Cheer azaleas are blooming. Definitely some of my favorite.

I enjoy using these wreaths on the front door. A dear friend gave me the one on the left when my mother passed away. Three weeks later, my grandmother passed and our church had that wreath made knowing I had double doors. They are so special to me.

We're in the Courtyard below. Mr. Dumpling built this last year. We're having a Mango Salsa snack outside before it gets too hot.

Enjoying some Blackberry Mint tea, heart shaped sugar cookies and my current Southern Lady magazine. Love Southern Lady.

With TWO days notice, we actually had a wedding on our front porch. We worked like crazy people, power washed everything...and they were a gorgeous couple.

See you tomorrow to continue with our Blog Party.

Also shared with:
Outdoor Wednesday

New Orleans Red Beans and Rice

2011-06-21T09:15:00.001-05:00

Red Beans and rice on Monday are a New Orleans tradition. This was always "wash day" for the lady of the house. With mounds of laundry to do, she needed something for dinner that required little attention. Beans were put on in the morning, simmered all day and a hearty meal was placed on the table that evening.

My mother, without a doubt, made the best red beans I have ever eaten...and I've eaten a lot. Her fluffy rice and cornbread were to die for. How I miss my mother's cooking.

I love to use my crockpot so here's a slightly different method than my mother used:

Ingredients
1 lb dried kidney beans (we use Camellia which is a pinker bean)
Ham, diced (or a ham hock if you're having sausage)
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon black pepper, fresh ground
1 tablespoon powdered chicken stock
1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder
1 teaspoon liquid smoke

3 bay leaves
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 -2 tablespoon salt, to taste
1 -2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere)
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 lb smoked sausage (we use Turkey sausage), sliced in half lengthwise and then slice

1. Wash beans, looking for any small stones.

2. Place beans in stockpot, cover beans with water and soak overnight. Beans will expand so use plenty of water.

3. Pour water off of beans and place beans in crockpot. Add ham, black pepper, chicken stock powder, chopped garlic, bay leaves, Chipotle powder and liquid smoke.

4. Add water to cover beans by about 1/2". You want them nice and creamy. More water can be added later if necessary.

5. Saute onions and bell pepper in butter and add to pot.

6. Cover and place crockpot on either low for 8 hours or high for 3-5 hours and then reduce to low.

7. You want to cook the beans until they can be mashed with a spoon.

8. There are several ways to thicken beans. My preference is to remove about a cup of beans, mash them with a spoon and add back to to the pot.

9. You can also thicken with cornstarch mixed with a little water. Add and allow to cook until thickened.

10. Cook your rice, brown sausage and salt beans to taste....you just really can't go wrong here

11. Put your rice in a bowl, place red beans over rice. Serve the sausage on the side.
Make sure you have a bottle of hot sauce on the table, sliced onions or green onions...and hot buttered cornbread. I just detest sweet cornbread...personal preference. I use a mix (Gladiola White Cornbread mix) but add different ingredients to my cornbread. I'll post that one day.

Serve with sweet iced tea and you're a Southerner for sure!

Random Pinkness

2011-06-17T22:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome! For Pink Saturday today, I thought I would just show you some random pink. Who doesn't love "random pink"?

Come on in and I'll show you one of my favorite antique pieces.

Mr. Dumpling found this darling buffet in Eureka Springs, I wasn't in the store with him and it closed before I could get there. We drove back to Branson where we were staying and then back to Eureka Springs the next day. He knew I would love this and I do! Love the curved glass on it.

If you look inside, you will see my PINK Mason Vista dishes.

My Little Pinkie climbing rose has just about bloomed itself out. The heat/drought here is starting to take its toll. One of my favorite places in the yard tho.

That is Mrs. B. R. Cant peeking through the fence. I would love to see it just tumble over the fence one day.
This is a combination of Knock-out roses and Agapanthus. Click on the pic to enlarge and look to the far right. See my little fluttering friend?

Our lilies have done so well this year. This is one of my favorite. The color is just scrumptious!
Boudreaux sits by me in my chair while I type every post. I think he enjoys blogging and just demands to be featured in my posts. There is a little pink flower in the settee!

So glad you visited. I don't get notices if you "follow", so please leave a note in your comment. As always, I'll be honored to follow you back!

A Southern Belle and New Orleans

2011-06-15T20:55:00.007-05:00

Tablescapes are so much fun to put together. Today, we're strolling down the French Quarter. It's a little warm/HOT but that's part of the charm of the Quarter. I actually spent my teenage years living on the Westbank of New Orleans. I have so many wonderful memories of those years.

Since I warned you it would be hot, we're going to sit outside. Now don't whine. We have a ceiling fan. You will be okay.

My inspiration piece is my New Orleans vintage tablecloth. I just love it! I bought it on eBay many years ago.

The table cloth is square and has New Orleans landmarks all around the edges. There is even a Dixie Land band!

I found the crab plates at Marshall's quite a while ago. There were only 3 and I thought"well, I'll find some more". No, none, nowhere...even checked eBay. I love the plate and bowl combo and use them on a regular basis just for us. You saw the chips didn't you?

The plates are by April Cornell for Silvestri.

I've used a variety of Louisiana items such as the Dixie Sampler, a Magnolia arrangement, a southern belle planter and Fleur-de-lis.

I found this Dixieland cross-stitch sampler at a local antique mall for just a few dollars. I knew I would use it somewhere...someday. Someone put in a lot of work on this. Notice I am even using a fleur-de-lis plate holder. As my grandmother would say...Well, lah de dah.

The rose ceramic napkin holders were a gift I had given to my mother. I love using her things now. These even have a few chips but that makes them more precious because she loved to use them.

I use my vintage Southern Belle planter in a lot of settings. If you're going to be a Southern Belle, you have to have a planter. I think that's a rule.

Sweet iced tea is served in a great-aunt's Depression glass Iridized Iris & Herringbone pitcher. Take a look at the glasses. See the Southern Belle scenes?

While I was ~~playing~~ slaving over this arrangement, I decided to try a different look. A little lighter? I cut some flowers and put them in a syrup pitcher, brought in a candle and a miniature ceramic figurine. I also used a metal pineapple since it is the sign of hospitality. I might like this better...what about you?

I bought the sweet little butter dish one one of our antiquing vacation trips. I love the small size. It will hold about 1/2 of a stick of butter. You have to have butter for your cornbread.

I believe he is singing to his sweetheart, Oh Susannah
"I come from Alabama with a banjo on my knee,
I'm going to Louisiana, my true love for to see

After all of these pictures, were you wondering if Mr. Dumpling ever had Supper (it is Supper here)? Well, of course he did. And what could be more Southern than Red Beans w/Ham, Rice, Cornbread and sweet Iced Tea!!! I'll be posting the recipe next week.

If you decide you like my blog and want to "Follow Me", I would be just thrilled. Drop me a line to let me know. I will always "Follow You" too!

Sharing with:

Tablescape Thursday
Vintage Thingie Thursday
Strut Your Stuff Thursday
Boost My Blog Friday
Flaunt It Friday
Show and Tell Friday
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday

Historic Pratt House - The Rest of the Story

2011-06-14T11:33:00.104-05:00

Let's head on a little road trip. We're not going far I promise. Boudreaux has his own seat...but he really doesn't like to be crowded...you've been warned.

A part of this post was made in 2009...but stay with me. I'll play Paul Harvey (you do know him right?) and give you "The Rest of the Story" at the end. Now don't skip down to look. It will spoil the story.

As you know, Mr. Dumpling and I love to take "excursions". We ride, look at landscaping, throw in a little antiquing and call it a good day!

There is a house in East Texas that has long fascinated me...almost an obsession. When I first spied the house, two elderly sisters were living in the home. It needed work at that point but was still lovely.

Many, many, many times, I would have Mr. Dumpling park across the street and just let me stare at it. I'm not saying this is normal...I'm just saying...

This is the house at the original location before being moved.

Here's a brief history written by Bob Bowman in the local paper:

"In 1908, as Sallie Pratt's house was being completed a block from downtown Hemphill, she "prayed a hedge" around the imposing structure and asked God to safeguard her home from man's destruction -- much in the Biblical fashion of Job 1:10.

Today, more than a few Hemphill townspeople are convinced Sallie's prayers 95 years ago have protected her house from the wrecker's ball and will lead to its eventual restoration.

Sallie's home was built for her by husband, George Edward Pratt, who had followed his father's footsteps in the general mercantile business at Hemphill and Bronson. The house was furnished by quality furniture shipped to Hemphill.

Sallie's bed was so elegant that it was reportedly used in a scene from the film, "Gone With the Wind."

(End of article)

Fate worked against the house. The sisters passed away and a male relative was left in the house. He was quite an original and loved to march in parades (uninvited) in his boots, shorts and twirling a baton. He called himself a "Global Twirler". Highly intelligent, a class Valedictorian...but a little different. He used one room of the THREE story house 7000 sq. foot to live in. Here he is:

An auctioneer friend of ours was contacted to auction the contents. He was admitted into the house (which was a RARE honor). He said the house was covered in antique treasures...walls, cabinets, stacked on the floor...and oak (I adore American oak) everywhere. The house had double staircases!

Well, by this point, just hearing about "my house" had me gasping in delight I tell you!

To shorten the story, the auction never happened. Distant relatives came in, divided the possessions (so I heard) and the house was left empty. Ok, I peeked in. You know I did.

Some in the small TX town wanted it torn down. I made a few calls to see if the house was for sale. We hadn't built this home yet but we had the land. I just knew I could get it across the LA line and on our land. I told you...I loved this house! Someone suggested floating it across Toledo Bend Lake...at that point, Mr. Dumpling just paled.

In the end, the local church sold it and it was moved to make way for a parking lot. The local Historical Society bought it, moved it and a restoration fund was established but it still sat empty...and deteriorating. Here's the house after being moved to a new location:

And so the local town had fund raisers and began to raise money to save the house.
Yes, I have peeked in the windows. I have sat on the porch. I have pretended it was mine and how I would restore it.

Is that obsessed? I would rather think I have an excellent imagination and a love of old things. I want to save them, restore them and treasure them.

Boudreaux just demanded to be in this post. You know how he is! Such a little camera hog.

OK, here's the rest of the story. We were over in Hemphill, TX antiquing a couple of weeks ago and I made Mr Dumpling take me by to see the house. I check on it when we go thru just to make sure it is okay. I am NOT obsessed...truly.

We drive down the road and both say something seems odd. Isn't this the right road? Of course it is...but there is NO HOUSE. No...it can't be.

Here's the story from "The Daily Sentinel" July 2010.
Hemphill loses Pratt House to fire
"Built in 1908 by local merchant George Edward Pratt, the 7,000-square-foot Greek revival home housed the Pratt family until the late-1990s and later became a community restoration project. Last week, the 102-year-old structure inexplicably went up in flames."

I admit it. I cried. Not weeping tears but sad tears. My house is gone. I ranted a little. If they hadn't moved it, it would be okay. If they had sold it to me, it would be okay. I really hate to see us losing the beauty and the history of these old houses and mansions. What a treasure it could have been again.

And that's the rest of the story.

Some of the parties I share with:
Wednesday Outdoor
Thurs Open House

Vintage Thingie Thursday
Friday Feathered Nest
Vintage Inspiration Friday

Yummy Lime Grilled Chicken Breast

2011-06-13T19:25:00.008-05:00

Ingredients
4 boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup soy sauce (I use low sodium)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 cup lime juice (at least 2 limes)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne (we're in LA so I use a little more)
2 teaspoons garlic, minced

Mix all ingredients together. I love fresh limes and getting to use my jadite juicer is always a plus. I feel like a real cook when I use my vintage cooking gadgets.

Doesn't this lime just make your lips pucker?

Place chicken breasts in large ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal well. "Seal well" is very important! I'll show you the pic but honestly....raw meat just isn't that appetizing is it?

Marinade at least a couple of hours in your refrigerator.

TIP: Make sure the bag is sealed well. I turn these over in the refrigerator every few hours if I think of it. This time...you see this coming don't you? Yep, when I flipped it over, out came some of the marinade. It either wasn't sealed well or the pressure forced it over. Learn from my mistake.

My refrigerator needed a good cleaning anyway.

I marinaded mine early in the morning and then Mr. Dumpling grilled them that evening. Wonderful flavor and very moist and tender.

TIP: I marinaded at least 8 chicken breasts...doubled the marinade. We grilled all of them and then sliced/chopped the leftovers. I put 3 chicken breasts into each zip lock bag. These will come in handy for so many recipes.

I served these with a baked potato and cornbread salad. I'll follow up with the recipe I use for Cornbread Salad in another post. Yummy good!

I usually post on these "parties"

Monday Made with Love
Mouthwatering Monday
Homemaker Monday
Hunk of Meat Monday
Monday Melt in your Mouth
Delectable Tuesday
Tuesday Time Out
Dr. Laura Tasty Tuesday
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday
Tuesday to Do
Made From Scratch Tuesday
Totally Tasty Tuesday
Wow Us Wednesday
What I Whipped up Wed
Whatever Goes Wed
Wed Share the Wealth
These Chicks Cooked

Breakfast in bed...sort of

2011-06-13T01:05:00.003-05:00

Well, Yikes! I've been sick this weekend and didn't get any posts completed for this week. However, I was looking through some of pics and I found a few favorites. So for Show off Your Cottage Monday, we've been asked to use pink if at all possible. Here's a few of mine!

Earlier this spring, I played with setting up a tray for breakfast in bed. Now I'll be honest...Mr. Dumpling sometimes brings me coffee to bed on Sat...but I just really don't like trying to sit up and drink coffee in bed. Shhhh, let's not tell him tho.

Since I don't like drinking coffee in bed, I probably wouldn't like eating in bed. So I'm going to sit in a pretty little antique oak side chair covered in yellow and pink roses. Yep, I did that...all by myself. I can prop my feet on my footstool I found on a vacation trip. Don't you just love these large cabbage roses?

Now keep in mind, this was in the spring. However, I think rabbits are so sweet, they should be used all the time. What do you think? Easter only?

In the above tray, I used a bunny china plate.

Below, I used a silver Bunny tray which I just adore. I wish I had more of these but alas...only one. The china has such soft pretty colors to go with the setting.

In this setting, I used the following:

My Noritake Reverie china - my very favorite. I bought it new myself in 1977. Quite a splurge for me back then.

Green Fruits Depression Tumbler

Placemats from my mother.

Yellow tray from a Garage Sale

Antique Mother of Pearl flatware

Now to be perfectly honest with you Dear Readers (hopefully Follower's), some of the food is real and some is...gasp....fake. Can you tell?

Also adding to;

Presidents and their children- Marriages through the years

2011-06-09T22:28:00.005-05:00

Since I was a very little girl, I was fascinated with two things: The White House history and weddings. I still haven't been to the White House (sigh) but I've seen and planned numerous weddings along the way including mine 35 years ago! College sweethearts and still in love!

For this Wedding Party, let's take a look at some of my favorite weddings of Presidents or of their children:

Eleanor Roosevelt married her 5 cousin Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1905. She was given away by her Uncle Theodore Roosevelt. Here's a brief description of her dress from the New York Times:

The bridal gown was a white satin princess robe, flounced and draped with old point lace, and with a white satin court train. The bride's point lace veil was caught with orange blossoms and a diamond crescent. She wore a pearl collar, the gift of the bridegroom's mother, and a diamond bowknot, the gift of Mrs. Warren Delano, Jr. Her bouquet was of lilies of the valley.

Above: The wedding of Theodore Roosevelt's oldest daugher Alice. Quite a story about this family but would take way too much space to tell. This wedding was in 1906. Gorgeous dress!

Below: Jessie Wilson, daughter of Woodrow Wilson. The White House had gone without a wedding for many years to her wedding was quite an event. I"m fascinated with the hats/crowns on her bridesmaid's. It makes me think of the Statue of Liberty for some reason.

Now let's move along. One of my favorite presidents to read about is Harry Truman. He was quite the romantic and wrote many many love letters to Bess all through their marriage. They married in 1919.

Gerald Ford and Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Bloomer Warren Ford in 1948. This was not her first marriage so was more subdued. I think she looks very chic and glamorous don't you?

Ronald Reagan married Nancy Davis in 1952. Recognize the Best Man? yep, that's William Holden (so handsome).

We will never forget the wedding dress of Jacqueline Bouvier when she wed JFK in 1953. Classic for sure. She admitted later she never liked the dress but the Kennedy's insisted on the lavish design. She said it made her "look like a lampshade"!!

I thought the next wedding was so interesting. This is the wedding of Pres. Truman's only child Margaret in 1956. Look at what the bridesmaid's are holding instead of flowers.

Luci Johnson, daughter of LBJ married in 1966 in a large wedding. Interesting: pink net veils on the bridesmaids.

Her sister, Lynda Johnson married in 1967. She had dated the actor George Hamilton but ended up with Charles Robb.

We move along to Tricia Nixon. I always thought she was so cute. She married in 1971. I thought her dress was lovely. She married in the Rose Garden. Lucky girl.

Susan Ford, daughter of Gerald, married in 1979. What was she thinking with that veil? Just not flattering.

Truly one of my favorite dresses was worn by Caroline Kennedy in 1986. The top looks like clusters of flowers...gorgeous.

I haven't included any presidential sons yet but JFK Jr.'s wedding in 1996 just can't be bypassed. Remember how her dress set off a wave of the slip dress? Could he be any more handsome?

In 2008, Jenna Bush married and I thought her dress was stunning and flattering.

Our last presidential daughter is Chelsie Clinton in 2010. Beautiful bride in a Vera Wang dress. Quite an aisle she walked down.

Just for fun...here's some of my favorites through the years:
Elizabeth Taylor in "Father of the Bride". Love this movie!

Shirley Temple, only 17, married John Agar.

Julia Roberts in Steel Magnolias

As pretty as all these were, I have a very favorite to share with you. Can you guess?

OnlySon finally got married (oh dear, did I say "finally"?)...He was a typical man with little input in the planning except to say "No wedding during LSU Football season".

Fortunately Miss E is a huge fan too. Whew. We thought we might have to purchase this for the cake!

I had fun looking at so many wedding pics. Maybe Mr. Dumpling would like to do it all again?

A Courtyard Setting and a- Mango Salsa Snack

2011-06-06T19:44:00.009-05:00

What do you do with a boat load of tomatoes? I can only eat so many tomato sandwiches. You do eat tomato sandwiches eh? Soft white bread, low fat mayo (sigh), a good fresh garden tomato, salt and pepper. Oh so good. I digressed didn't I?

Ok, so I had all these tomatoes and after giving some away...I still have tomatoes. I decided to make Mango Salsa. I love the taste and colors of this salsa. So fresh!

Since this post is so pic heavy, I will place a separate post with the Mango Salsa recipe. Just click here if you would like the recipe.

Now what would make this more special? How about a little snack time outside in the courtyard. I like to name things. Is that a Southern thing or just a quirk? We have the Courtyard, the Heritage Garden, the patio and the porch. Each one is best at certain times depending on the sun. I live in Louisiana...think HOT.

Today, we're going to the courtyard. I have a cute table I found at Hobby Lobby (50% off). I never buy anything at HL unless it is on sale! If it's not on sale this week, it will be next week right?

I'm setting the bistro table with our snack of mango salsa, chips and iced tea.

The placemats were on sale at Dillards years ago. They only had 2. Would love more because I love pink and green. I have the matching napkins. Both the placemat and the napkins are reversible. I added a little crystal napkin ring with lots of pastel colors. The dainty mother of pearl forks are an auction find. I've gradually added to the set with serving pieces.

The green dishes are a Marshall's find. They are Le Creuset Poterie. I had no plan when I bought these but I've found several uses for them. I have 4 in green and 4 in red. Perfect size to hold a sherbet dish of salsa with chips on the side. You can also use them to bake, microwave or freeze.

The pink glass is Depression Glass in the Adam pattern. It is one of my favorite Depression glass patterns and has square plates. I use those plates in a lot of table settings because they are unusual. You don't see many square plates in Depression glass.

The pink glasses are my mother-in-laws. I love to use anything with a history or belongs/belonged to a family member. My MIL is a very special lady...92 and still so sharp. She is a joy to visit and still loves a good session of ~~gossip~~ news sharing. I walked around to the Heritage Garden and cut some roses...Mrs. B.R. Cant and yellow knockout roses. They are in a green Depression Glass bud vase. We'll talk about the Heritage garden and how it got the name another time.

Have a seat before it gets to hot to enjoy. The tea is so cold...look at the glasses! I love this spot because I have a good view of the porch on one side and the fountain and lilies on the other...just perfect to enjoy our afternoon snack.

Joining the following Blog Parties this week:

Tabletop Tuesday

Tuesday at the Table
Tuesday To Do
Traditional Tuesday
Tempt My Tummy Tuesday
Tuesday Garden Party
Delectable Tuesday
Outdoor Wednesday
Wow Us Wednesday
Wednesday Open House Party

Mango Salsa

2011-06-06T19:41:00.002-05:00

2 ripe Mangoes
2 Garden tomatoes
1 chopped bell pepper
1/2 chopped Vidalia Onion or red onion
2-3 TBSP fresh lime juice
Garlic to taste
finely chopped jalepeno to taste

Mix ingredients together. Best if the flavors are allowed to blend for a couple of hours. Serve with chips. Makes such a pretty dish.

Unsure how to cut up a mango? Simply Recipes has excellent instructions.

http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_cut_a_mango/

Sharing with:

Strut Your Stuff Thursday

Show Off Your Cottage Monday June 6, 2011

2011-06-05T19:53:00.003-05:00

For this "Show Off Your Cottage" Monday, the suggestion is to feature white. That's easy! I love white. I know for many, it is not really a color but I find it such a clean crisp color. Many of my favorite things are white from furniture, pottery, flowers and plants and even my sweet Angel Baby.

Here's a just a few of my some of my favorites:

White Bougainvillea in the courtyard

Natchez White Crepe Myrtle

I love the little yellow spots of color on the Natchez.

How about some little white Shasta Daisies? These will take over your garden in a season or two.

And what could be sweeter than the face of a white pansy!

I always try to find a way to work in a picture of my little fur baby cockapoo Boudreaux. He qualifies as "white" on a white chair. You can see my Lefton Green Heritage on the tea cart.

Also linking to:

Amaze Me Monday
Masterpiece Monday
Make the World Cuter Monday

We witnessed a MIRACLE this week

2011-06-05T08:32:00.000-05:00

In our very small community, everyone knows everyone's business. Does that sound like a bad thing? Sometimes...it can be.

BUT when there is a physical, mental or emotional need, it is a blessing beyond measure. This week, a dear friend (personal and church) had problems after knee surgery. Within a week, this friend, younger than me, was scheduled for a foot amputation or more.

It was just unacceptable to comprehend and a community began to pray. All faiths, all beliefs...joined together to pray for a miracle.

Hold on to your seats! She was taken into surgery for the amputation...and the Dr. came back out shortly. Good news? Bad news? You know don't you? He found healthy skin where he thought to be all dead. His words were "Amazing".

Amazing? Miracles are always amazing!

She has a very long road ahead of healing and even some rehab...but she walked on that leg yesterday. The leg she wasn't supposed to have.

God is good. All the time.

Genesis 9:12-13 NIV

12 And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: 13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.

Mountain Flower Painted Petalware Depression Glass

2011-06-01T20:12:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite collections is Red trimmed Petalware made by the MacBeth-Evans Glass Company in the 1940's. The plate is somewhat translucent when held to the light. The first time I saw it...well, I just gasped. It was love at first sight.

Little did I know this pattern is "scarcer than hen's teeth". That's one of my grandma's saying but I kind of like it! I have SLOWLY added a piece at a time. And then fortunately, we found eBay. I added a few more here and there and still look for it on our trips.

There are many patterns of Petalware all made from 1930-1950. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Some patterns include the pastel stripes, bolders stripes, fruit patterns, and other florals.

This is the Mountain Flower pattern. I love that I can put almost any color with it. I can use my Green Depression glass, I have some blue I use...I just love it! The green goblet is from my mother and was considered the "good" glasses used for holidays, etc.

While shopping on eBay one day, I saw these tumblers. I almost stopped breathing! You think I'm exaggerating? Then you really don't know me very well!!! These are so very hard to find. I waited and sniped (do you know what that is?) and was the winner! Woo hoo! If I ever stumble on the larger 12 oz. tumblers, I'll have to do a little victory dance.

It is a very striking set to display. It was previously displayed in an old oak cabinet in our other home.

Currently it is displayed in my glass kitchen cabinet. I enjoy drinking my coffee at the island facing my pretty dishes!

Posting this to:
Vintage Thingie Thursday
Tablescape Thursday
Flaunt it Friday
Friday Show and Tell
Feathered Nest Friday
Vintage Inspiration Friday

Loving the Outdoors - Daylilies Part 1

2011-05-31T21:07:00.002-05:00

I love the Spring for so many reasons. One of my main reasons are my/our daylilies. Those cheerful yellow flowers just brighten up my morning. I grab a cup of coffee (well, usually my 2nd) and start the "grand tour". Then Mr. Dumpling will do the same thing and inevitably ask me..."Did you see the .....". With daylilies, every day really is a new day!!

Today, let's cover some of our "recurrent, reblooming" lilies. The first we tried was the Stella de Oro. WOW! This is our very first bloomer every Spring and it really does bloom until the first frost. For Louisiana, that is at least 5 months of continuous blooms!

They grow quickly and we have already divided the ones we planted 3 years ago. These are the darkest yellow of the rebloomers. However, they probably give the biggest bang for the buck.

Happy Returns is a medium lemon color and blooms profusely! Overall, it is probably my favorite yellow but we don't have many of these. It's almost time to divide them tho.

Going Bananas (don't you just love that name?) is quite showy. It's the lightest of my lilies but blooms so profusely. They are taller and make a nice display around the fountain.

Here's a comparison of the three blooms for size and color: Left to right: Stella, Going Bananas and Happy Returns.

Lilies can be a lot of work. I go around each day pulling off the day old wilted bloom. You don't want them to make seed pods unless you plan on storing them. Seed pods will decrease blooms. However, I actually enjoy doing this. I know...I'm strange. This is a bunch of Stella's that need some work. See those pods?

No post is complete without a pic of Boudreaux/Boo/BooBoo/AngelBaby...Is he spoiled you ask?

And just so OnlySon doesn't get jealous, here's a pic of him and Miss E....one of my favorites.

Next week, we'll take a look at some of our really special lilies. They will just knock your socks off!

I'm participating in:

Outdoor Wednesday
Wednesday Wow Us

A Refreshing Glass of Blackberry Mint Tea

2011-05-30T09:29:00.005-05:00

If you live in the South, it's a requirement to like sweet tea. Not only must you like sweet tea (not tea sweetened with Sweet n low)...sugar sweet tea.

All Southerner's take/carry/tote their sweet tea out to the veranda. We sit in our wicker rockers under our ceiling fans and say things like "Bless her heart, didn't she look tacky today". If you say "Bless her heart", it's not mean or gossipy.

Ok, I made every bit of that up...well...some of it. Stay tuned.

Actually, it's already in the 90's here and it IS time for tea. For us, we are now addicted to Blackberry Mint tea. Mr. Dumpling has actually gone all the way to town to buy a little container of blackberries. Yes, we live rural...and we "go to town"...3 miles. Anyway...

I grow my own mint but I think I'm going to have to plant more at this rate!

First, you make a "Simple Syrup". There is just no way to do this wrong.

1. Use equal amounts of water and sugar. Because Mr. Dumpling has become an addict, I know use 2 cups water and 2 cups sugar.

2. Stir mixture and bring to a boil. Boil approx. 4 minutes.

3. Add 1/2 to 1 cups blackberries and 1/2 cup fresh mint. Boil approx. 1 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let mixture come to room temperature.

5. Using a tea strainer, strain and place syrup in a container. Refrigerate. I love to use my green Depression glass syrup pitcher.

To serve: Place several tablespoons in a glass and add tea. I'm using one of my Duncan Miller First Love goblets (an eBay find). Add a mint sprig and enjoy!

And remember, I said I made "some" of it up. We really do drink tea while sitting in our wicker rockers on the front porch under a ceiling fan. Welcome to my small corner of paradise.

I'm adding this to:

Monday - Show Off Your Cottage (White)
Kitchen Tip Tuesday
Tasty Tuesday
Tuesday at the Table
Tempt my Tummy Tuesday
Tuesday Garden Party
Wednesday Make it Your's

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-30T04:00:00.006-05:00

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival of liberty.”

— John F. Kennedy

Pink Saturday - 3rd Birthday Celebration

2011-05-27T20:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday! I love pink! Almost any shade of pink! I haven't participated in Pink Saturday for a while. Other commitments have kept me busy but I'm getting back in gear. Be sure to visit Beverly over at How Sweet the Sound. There's always a crowd gathered over there to see pretty pink treasures!

This is actually a repeat of one of my first Pink Saturday posts in 2009. I have made some updates and edits to it. I hope you enjoy it...and that your memory is as bad as mine. It might seem like you are reading it for the first time! There is a story there but I'll share it another time re: my memory.

Let's take a look at the shelf in my Hearth Room. I love pink so I have a number of pink romantic items on the shelves. I change this monthly at least.

The first shelf has nothing pink. It's a mirror, a Yankee Candle mosaic shade in Clean Cotton scent and photo books I have done at Shutterfly. I love the crisp clean smell of Clean Cotton and use it more than any Yankee scent. Mr. Dumpling is very particular cause he "says" he has allergies. I think it just means he only likes certain scents.

On the next shelf is a cute little Victorian figurine marked Japan. I picked her up at an estate sale for a few dollars just because I loved the colors.

Moving up to the next shelf is the Salem Godey Plate I have featured before. I love using these plates in February because they are so very feminine and romantic. Wouldn't you just love to dress like this and have tea parties on the veranda?

The figurine next to it is one of my favorites. The colors are delicate in shades of cream, green and little pink flowers. She's so graceful! Her mark is Franklin Porcelain - Sophia.
Below is an adorable Southern Belle powder jar. I just love her. I saw her at a local estate sale and HAD to have her! She almost started me on a new collection of porcelain powder jars but I have restrained myself thus far.

Next to her is a lovely hand painted bowl with gold trim. The flowers are just beautiful going from blush, pink and yellow. I apologize for the bad picture but I did get a close-up of the lovely flowers.

On the top shelf is one of my many Plantation books. A true Southern Belle has to have books on plantations you know! I wonder if the more you have, the more of a Belle you are? I want to be a certified (not certifiable...that's different) Southern Belle by all means!

The rose bowl is one of my favorites also. Yes, I have a lot of "favorites". What I love about this bowl is that it is even prettier on the inside! It is marked the Henry Ford Museum. Mr. Dumpling was given this by a man who used to work for him.

That's it for Pink Saturday this week. I adore Pink Saturday and so glad it has survived to be THREE years old. Happy 3rd Birthday Pink Saturday!

Tablescape - Southern Belle

2011-05-25T20:38:00.004-05:00

There is just not anything I love/hoard as much as dishes. I can't help myself. It is a genetic issue which also afflicted my mother. I like every shape, every color and almost any combination.

Today, my inspiration piece is a hand embroidered and crocheted cloth. I bought this little treasure in Round Top, TX many years ago. A lovely woman had a small booth set up and was raising money for her mission work. This cloth had been made in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe by her students. Well, you can imagine how my heart started beating when I saw the Southern Belle. It was meant for me. Really.

The colors used are so gorgeous especially the lavender, purple and blue. I used the following dishes:

My lavender chargers from JC Penny's and Lenox Butler's Pantry square plates.

On top of that are salad plates which match the chargers.

And the Pièce de résistance are my antique Noritake cream soup and underplate. I don't use a lot of blue but these just stole my heart. See all the pretty soft colors?

Do you shop at Marshall's? Fortunately for me, the closest Marshall's is about 65 miles away. I have probably gradually purchased every piece of white china and serving pieces they sell. In this setting, I used the cake plate, milk and sugar and the spaghetti holder. It served as my vase. Now if you are from LA, you will quickly pick up the significance of the flower colors. Geaux Tigers!

I added a sweet little vintage Lefton Southern Belle planter and my sun purple syrup holder.

It will be filled with Blackberry Mint syrup...our current addiction. Add it to tea and it's just beyond yummy! Mr. Dumpling has been known to make a special trip to the store to get the berries. What a man! I'll post the recipe for it next week for some of the Foodie Parties.

I'm linking this post to the following parties for this week:

Blue Monday - Tweet Tweet

2011-05-23T08:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday to everyone! First day of Summer vacation for Mr. Dumpling. Routines will change (mostly for me) but change can be good...right? Today, I'm participating in Blue Monday over at Smiling Sally's. Be sure to check out her page and all attending her party!

I absolutely adore this time of year. Flowers blooming, trees are green again, grass to be mowed (yes, I love to mow) and....bluebirds start new families! We have four birdhouses and we are already on our second batch of babies. If only OnlySon felt that same desire but I digress. He doesn't read by blog so I should be safe there.

Here's a few pics of the gorgeous BLUE eggs. There is just nothing like the color of a bluebird egg is it?

I try not to open the lid too often. I don't want to scare MamaBird. However, this is what they do when you open it. They sing for their supper! Hmm, wonder if I could train Mr. Dumpling to do that?

There is always one really BIG baby that does not want to leave the nest. I know MamaBird probably has to push that one out of the nest! Sometimes Mother's have to do that...with lots of love of course!

I'm a huge fan of John Audubon. He has a lovely print of the Bluebird I'll share with you.

I'm always on the lookout for Audubon prints. I have a set of plates I will share later and I would love some prints to display with them. If you know of a good site to buy prints...let me know!

Have a blessed week!

Outdoor Wednesday 4/28/10 - Roses Everywhere!

2010-04-28T07:06:00.008-05:00

Outdoor Wednesday is such a wonderful day! When else do you get to travel all over the US and peek into yards? Be sure to check out all the other participants at A Southern Daydreamer.

This Spring has been an unbelievable year for roses. I'm not sure if it's the cool weather but they are just breathtaking this season. This is the third season for most of our Knockout roses and the blooms are the largest ever...not to mention they are completely loaded!

This is my Double Knockout Tree rose.

If you follow my blog, you will remember that Mr. Dumpling built an arbor for me last year. I saw the arbor in my sweet niece's wedding photo and he copied it. We planted Little Pinkie climbing roses on each side along with clematis. Well, after one year...look at this!!

The daylilies are also starting to bloom. Right now, only the Stella's are blooming. However, we went to an Day Lily farm earlier this month and bought at least a dozen of what should be fantastic lilies. We're waiting on those and I see a few buds.

Come back and visit. I'm going to try to stay current with Outdoor Wednesday!

Tasty Tuesday - Crab and Corn Chowder

2010-03-01T09:34:00.013-06:00

I am participating in Tasty Tuesday and Tempt my Tummy Tuesday today! It's rare I remember to take a picture of what I'm cooking but I actually did on Sunday.

One of OnlySon's favorite things (while living at home) was Crab and Corn Chowder. He shared a March 3 birthday with my paternal grandmother. Crab and Corn Chowder and Crawfish Etouffee were usually on the menu for their shared parties. Italian Cream Cake was the dessert but we'll save that for another time!

Crab and Corn Chowder is so easy to make and is so yummy on a cold winter day. Keep the basic ingredients on hand and it's a quick and easy meal to throw together.

Crab and Corn Chowder

1/2 cup chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 Tbsp. butter
Red pepper to taste
2 cans cream of potato soup
1 soup can fat free half and half
2 soup cans milk (any %)
12 ounces cream cheese (I use low fat)
3 cans flaked crab meat
1 bag frozen corn, slightly cooked

Saute green onions and garlic in butter until tender.

Soften cream cheese in microwave. It will stir in much easier. Add remaining ingredients. Heat thoroughly. Serve with cornbread or french bread.

Pink Saturday 1/30 - Winter Mantel

2010-01-29T08:44:00.021-06:00

Happy Pink Saturday everyone! Be sure to head over to Beverly's blog "How Sweet the Sound" for more Pink Saturday posts.

I truly love PINK. Always have. I really was a "girlie" girl with ribbons and bows. My grandmother loved pink and always had a beautiful pink bedroom. I thought it was the most gorgeous room ever.

OnlySon was my only child...and people tend to frown on boys in pink. I really need a grand-daughter (hint, hint) to lavish in PINK bows!

Ok, with that said...

My Christmas tree was done in Mercury glass and pink this year. I found a wonderful pink ribbon from Hobby Lobby which I fell in love with. I used it on the Christmas tree. I just couldn't bring myself to put it up so...I put it on the mantel for Valentine's.

I loved it so much, I kept it on the mantel for my winter/Valentine decorations. I usually skip straight from Christmas to Valentine's and then to Spring/Easter.

This is my mantel now.

Kept some of the mercury glass.

Added some silver hearts.

Kept the pink Depression glass vase which I love. It's the Tea Room pattern. Tea Room was such an elegant Art Deco style Depression glass pattern. It was made by Indiana Glass Co. from 1926 - 1931.

I put some crystals in the bottom and put some of the lights in the vase. Yes, I love sparkle!

I also use the pink Tea Room matching candle holders.

I love my pair of antique Waterfall style lamps. I keep them on the living room mantel year round. They fit the romantic theme so well with the cherub bottoms.

And kept the lights. I love to turn that on at night. It helps to keep some of the sparkle of the season.

By the way..."Who Dat"? Yep, we're going to the Super Bowl!! And the full chant for Saints fans? "Who dat? Who dat? Who dat say dey gonna beat dem Saints? Who dat? Who dat?"

Pink Saturday...Oops I forgot!

2010-01-09T10:04:00.005-06:00

I completely forgot Pink Saturday today! We went out of town yesterday and I forgot to do my post before I left. Be sure to check the other PINK SATURDAY entries for today!

Here's some pink tho...I ALWAYS have pink somewhere!

I copied my shelves from last year with romance and Valentine's Day in mind.

This is actually an older Teleflora bowl I found in an antique mall. I love the pink roses!

My Salem Godey print plates are still some of my favorite things~

Sometimes I wished I lived in the days when you would have actually kept powder in this lovely lady. I think of it as more "genteel" days until I think about all the modern day conveniences I enjoy!

I fell in love with this little lady. The colors are some of my favorites together - pink and purple.

Have a cozy and warm Saturday wherever you are!

Christmas at Our House

2009-12-21T14:47:00.009-06:00

It's Christmas Week...Boy, did it ever sneak up on me this year. I actually decorated much earlier this year. We were in Branson, MO for Thanksgiving week and everything was done before I left. Whew!

After that, I'm not sure what happened? Suddenly it is here and I have two presents purchased. I don't have a huge list but two isn't going to do it for sure! OnlySon still thinks Santa should visit. Yes, I realize he is 27...and married...but he's still the Only. We will be doing MAJOR shopping tomorrow!

Here's a few of my decorations this year. I changed a few things from last year like my living room tree, etc.

I finally bought a 9 ft. PRELIT tree. How I loved not putting a million strings on a tree this year. I decided to do the tree in Mercury glass (which I love) and a coral and green. Fun tree to decorate!

The antique oak mantel. I used some of the same decorations and ribbons:

My favorite thing to bring out each year is my nativity. It touches my heart to put out the baby Jesus and think of His Birth, His love and sacrifice for us. He truly is the Reason for the Season!

On the oak Hall Tree, I put a Christmas tree with two frames. The frames both show young love. On the left is our son and wife who married this year. On the right, are my maternal grandparents who married in 1925!

I love my Friendly Village dishes and they will stay out all winter:

The dining room is pretty much the same. I added the sugared village to the table.

I'll close with own little helper. He stayed with me every step of the way while decorations.

From our house to your's, Merry Christmas!

2009-10-05T15:11:00.020-05:00

What a summer! First, we finally got OnlySon married off to Sweetpea. The wedding was in Florida. What a beautiful couple they were if I say so myself!

I wasn't prepared to love the beach but it was beautiful! Our house was almost on the beach and family came for the wedding. It turned into a family reunion and what fun we had!

Late night sessions of catching up, more laughter than I thought possible, a few tears and so many memories!! What a lucky woman I am. Here's a few pics of the fun times:

Everyone had their own laptop! Yes, we were looking at wedding pictures together.

Fall is here IN my house but not outside quite yet. Some cool morning but still not seeing changing leaves. Here's a few of my inside Fall decorations.

I love to display my Friendly Village in the fall and winter months!

McCoy Ivy and Pine cone teapot sets. The Pine cone set belonged to my gr-aunt, then to Mother and now me!

The foyer table is decked out with lanterns, white pumpkins and some pilgrims. I don't wait until Thanksgiving for Pilgrims because I put out Christmas so early.

More on the outside blooms later this week. Happy Fall Y'all!

Show and Tell Friday - I'm back!

2009-06-12T08:37:00.011-05:00

Today is Show and Tell Friday! Kelli is the host for this fun weekly event and be sure to visit her at There is No Place Like Home to see all the participants.

Good morning everyone! I have been long absent and I do apologize for abandoning my blog. Things have been pretty hectic with my dad. He had moved to a new house, got sicker, then nursing home...we closed the house. He fell this past weekend and has had a major setback. I have to admit, my heart just hasn't been in to too much these past months.

However, life goes on and I'm seeing some dayight. Good things happen too! OnlySon and SweetPea have bought a new home in southern Louisiana. OnlySon has moved into it and we helped him move last weekend. Wedding is set for August in Florida and we are all excited.

So...that's been my world. Now...onto fun things! We have been working in the yard and it's great therapy. Mr. Dumpling whines but I know he secretly enjoys it. I always have a project in my mind and he usually follows through.

I'm going to post a lot of pics and I hope you enjoy them!

We started a new project in April by adding a courtyard to the side of the house with the fountain. Here's some before and construction pics.

And here's our after pictures. We added large pots with flowers and trees. This is a Japanese maple.

I found some large fleur de lis pots and Mr. Dumpling bought them for me for Mother's Day. We added some varigated bougainvillea which should bloom white.

We added an arbor between the windows and planted Angel Jasmine on each side which will grow over the arbor. In the corner are sasanqua and some knock-out roses. You can see the Natchez crepe myrtles are blooming.

Boudreaux is still supervising everything and is sniffing the straw flowers. He has to check out everything that is new.

Pink Saturday - 4/25 - Surprises - Lucky Me!

2009-04-25T11:14:00.007-05:00

Today is Pink Saturday as always hosted by Beverly at How Sweet the Sound. I peeked and a HUGE crowd has gathered!

As the White Rabbit says -

I'm late, I'm late for
A very important date.
No time to say hello, good-bye,
I'm late, I'm late, I'm late

So on with the Show! I was the LUCKY LUCKY winner of a drawing over at Kathy's Red Door Welcome! This is the pic from her blog of what I won! Her picture shows it off better than I could get.

I wish this chef was headed to my house to cook a meal for Mr. Dumpling and me!

Ok, so you're saying ( I can hear you) But JudyBug, that's not pink. Well, you silly gooses, I know that! BUT...there was a surprise in the box!!

Not only did Kathy send me the plates and cups which are the cutest things ever...I got these PINK and green towels! Are they cute or what?

That's not all! Look at the adorable hot pad!

And I saved the best for last...a matching apron!! I love aprons. I've been shopping for aprons. And now...I have the prettiest pink and green apron ever!!

Look at the little pleats at the bottom.

Even the little card was PINK and green!

So thank you, thank you, thank you Kathy! You are the best!

Outdoor Wednesday - 4/22 - A House fascination

2009-04-21T20:04:00.006-05:00

It's that fun time of the week when we head outside to take pictures of our surroundings! That means it is Outdoor Wednesday hosted by Susan at A Southern Daydreamer.

I've showed so many pics of the house recently that I thought I would take you somewhere else. As you know, Mr. Dumpling and I love to take "excursions". We ride, look at landscaping, throw in a little antiquing and call it a good day!

There is a house in East Texas that has long fascinated me...almost an obsession. When I first spied the house, two elderly sisters were living in the home. It needed work at that point but was still lovely. I would have Mr. Dumpling park across the street and just let me stare at it. I'm not saying this is normal...I'm just saying...

This is the house at the original location before being moved.

And a brief history written by Bob Bowman:

"In 1908, as Sallie Pratt's house was being completed a block from downtown Hemphill, she "prayed a hedge" around the imposing structure and asked God to safeguard her home from man's destruction -- much in the Biblical fashion of Job 1:10.

Today, more than a few Hemphill townspeople are convinced Sallie's prayers 95 years ago have protected her house from the wrecker's ball and will lead to its eventual restoration.

Sallie's home was built for her by husband, George Edward Pratt, who had followed his father's footsteps in the general mercantile business at Hemphill and Bronson. The house was furnished by quality furniture shipped to Hemphill. Sallie's bed was so elegant that it was reportedly used in a scene from the film, "Gone With the Wind."

Sallie's religious faith earned her a reputation as a healer and her skills were sought by people throughout East Texas."

Fate worked against the house. The sisters passed away and a male relative was left in the house. He was quite an original and loved to march in parades (uninvited) in his boots, shorts and twirling a baton. He called himself a "Global Twirler". Highly intelligent...but a little different. He used one room of the THREE story house to live in. Here he is:

A auctioneer friend of ours was contacted to auction the contents. He was admitted into the house (which was a RARE honor). He said the house was covered in antique treasures...walls, cabinets, stacked on the floor...and oak everywhere. The house had double staircases!

Well, by this point, I was gasping in delight I tell you!

To shorten the story, the auction never happened. Distant relatives came in and swooped things up (so I heard) and the house was left empty.

Some in town wanted it torn down. I made a few calls to see if the house was for sale. I just knew I could get it across the LA line and on our land. I told you...I loved this house! In the end, the local church bought it and had it moved to make way for a parking lot...where it is still empty.

Here's the house today:

Yes, I have peeked in the windows. I have sat on the porch. I have pretended it was mine and how I would restore it.

Is that obsessed? I would rather think I have an excellent imagination and a love of old things. I want to save them, restore them and treasure them.

Boudreaux just demanded to be in this post. You know how he is!

Outdoor Wednesday - 5/15 - Roses, pansies and birds!

2009-04-15T05:59:00.011-05:00

Spring is definitely here and Outdoor Wednesday is the perfect showcase for it! Jump over to Susan's at A Southern Daydreamer for more outdoor adventures!

The weather has been pretty cool here but some lovely sunny days. Here's some pics of how the yard is progressing.

With the cooler weather, the pansies are still blooming. I just love their cheerful little faces.

The knock-out roses are starting to bloom. If you don't have knock-outs, I highly recommend them. They are disease resistant and bloom constantly!

The knock-out tree rose. I can't wait until it is in full bloom!

Even the magnolia "Little Gem" trees are loaded with blooms. I love the smell of a magnolia bloom...such a clean, crisp lemony smell.

The Stella daylilies are just loaded with buds. In a few weeks, they should be putting on quite a show.

My favorite for today? Remember the little bluebird next with the pretty blue eggs?

Well, they are hatching! Look at these little birdies singing for their supper!'

See the one little egg left - He's a late bloomer I guess!

So with all this blooming going on, Here's a closing thought for today -