Sunday, November 22, 2015

The first snowfall.

We received our first snowfall here at the lake.
Our totals didn't add up to what everyone else received in the surrounding areas of Michigan. We have just enough to let us know that Winter has arrived. 

With the sun bouncing off the open water, plus the snow covered ground, it was brighter than usual this morning.

The first snowfall of the season is always a treat.

You can't help but feel the anticipation of the upcoming holiday season.

You slip on that old comfy robe from last Christmas, your heavy socks, and fluffy slippers...then put some water on for some hot tea.
You might even turn on a Christmas song....or two.
Enjoying that first snowfall here at the Lakehouse......
xoxoxoxoxoxo

Friday, November 20, 2015

Coloring books for grown ups.

Do you like to color, or did you enjoy coloring when you were young?
Maybe it's because I have grandchildren, or because I love painting....I love coloring.
I especially like using colored pencils, because it's easier for me to shade, and blend.
I am NOT an artist....but I do enjoy sitting down and coloring.

I find it difficult to sit still while watching TV.
I need to be doing something with my hands.
That's why I like silk ribbon embroidery. I can accomplish something while sitting with the TV going.

I found these "coloring books for grown ups" at Hobby Lobby, and TJMaxx.
They are inexpensive, and the colored pencils were right with the books at Hobby Lobby.
It depends on how detailed you are, but these pictures took me some time to finish...and I wasn't even being as detailed as I could have been!

There are many different books, pictures, and subjects to choose from.
Each book has a lot of pictures. They will keep you busy for quite a while.

You can use crayons, markers, pencils, paints, or chalks(which I am going to use for blending on the next picture I color.)
What is nice about this...you can do as much, or as little as you want. No deadline. It's just a relaxing hobby for anyone with the spare time to do it...lol.
It's not like a class...no one has to see it, other than you. You can be as creative as you want with it. You can even add some glitter....Donna???
Have a fun weekend!
Debbie
xoxoxo

Friday, November 13, 2015

One day at a time.

First of all, I'd like to thank Diana (from Nana Diana Takes a Break) for her post about the feature in Romantic Country Magazine.
That was very kind of you, dear friend.
Second, for the suggestion from Tessa to make the images a little smaller to fit in with the format of my blog.
I am open to any suggestions that will improve the overall appearance of the blog. So....please let me know if this looks better.....I appreciate your honesty dear lady.

The flowers from the garden that have been drying were ready to finish the wreath hanging over the mantle.
I showed you the partially finished version.
This is how it looks now.
I am happy with the way it turned out.

The lack of sunshine has me in a melancholy mood these days.
With the holidays approaching, reminders of my niece have been creeping in my mind.
My sister is going through some difficult days....missing her daughter.

We talk on the phone (she lives in Washington state) many times for encouragement.
I cannot imagine being in her position.
Needing some connection, a word, a photo, any little detail to keep that person alive in your heart.

We try to capture memories, and hold them tight....not wanting them to escape our minds eye.
If we could just keep them from fading away.......
I think that's why we talk about our loved ones so much.
To keep those memories alive in our hearts and minds.
So they don't become lost.
We hold on tight to the funny things, and let go of the sadness.....slowly.
There is no time limit on grief.
Until we've grieved, we will muddle through the sadness with the freshness of our loss. Yet laugh about the silly times we remember. The times that seem like yesterday. We will reinforce the fun, and hold those days captive in our hearts, until they take over the grief......one day at a time.
My love to my sister, Denise.
Debbie
xo

Sunday, November 8, 2015

Sissie and JDL

Good Sunday morning to you.
It's bright and sunny here at the lake this morning.
The Nuthatches and Chickadees are busy at the feeders, filling up on seed, getting ready for the cold weather ahead.
I know I've shared my angel wings with you before, but I wanted to let you know about the blogger that I bought them from.

I'm sure you know her.....Sissie, from Sissie's Shabby Cottage.
She's one of the first bloggers that I started following when I joined the blogging community.
Sissie is a very talented a creative lady.
Her home is gorgeous!
She is kind beyond words....and I just love her style.....not just decor wise, but as a person, too!

Sissie sells items from the Jeanne d' Arc Living line.
The pieces for your home are beautiful!
I ordered this lovely pillow slip, with it's wonderful detailing, and was recently gifted with another (from Sissie) with another. The workmanship in the product is amazing!
I LOVE the lace angel wings I ordered from her, too!
They will definitely be a part of my Christmas decor this year.

I'm using an idea that I saw on Sissie's blog for the wings...using a rosary made by Kerrie at Seawashed....another talented artist met through blogging.
You can see a scarf from JDL with the wings, and rosary as part of the vignette.
Part of the JDL clothing line.
I've ordered three tunics from the clothing line, and LOVE them all!
The shoulder bag is a stunner, and I've received many compliments on that.
Sissie sells her JDL pieces through her etsy store. 
It's a quick and easy process, and I personally guarantee you will be pleased with your purchase.
I have not been asked, or compensated to do this post. I am doing it because I LOVE this classy lady, and am so pleased with the line of merchandise she sells.
Enjoy your day!!!
xoxoxo