tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30805241291600346122024-03-12T23:19:56.465-05:00At Home With BestfriendsI love opening my home for entertaining. I hope I can make everyone feel special. My favorite things to do are scrapbooking, working in my yard, and being with my grandchildren. My love is women's ministries.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-25850010023458340252011-10-18T22:12:00.002-05:002011-10-26T10:01:36.203-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV74QUjPChr7zQP61q0S2MrFBG9TixshFoGDnd1CoBa4AI_ESydO_Hzlcg9fsiOeuCJChHhyphenhyphenpPrjXTAncEpcI46Y3PBmkIoihXtmUD3D8JF3zLzd19UBazcTv4z4zoAEI5wMd9RdKmnFs/s1600/wel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV74QUjPChr7zQP61q0S2MrFBG9TixshFoGDnd1CoBa4AI_ESydO_Hzlcg9fsiOeuCJChHhyphenhyphenpPrjXTAncEpcI46Y3PBmkIoihXtmUD3D8JF3zLzd19UBazcTv4z4zoAEI5wMd9RdKmnFs/s1600/wel.jpg" /></a></div>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-85963028158833792152011-09-16T20:36:00.003-05:002011-09-16T20:39:52.816-05:00Best Friends @ The Mustard Seed<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhMrK7FEu9c6mfsEDKmUa3Kxi0QDRk6oAMx3k44mHK6LT2yd6uKjppikSDkLTwmLVggfEB1g2ptatMtxRCb5gBJ6yABlYnkbMJBOSo30LZrn6y9n5mxX_XhzzCd6a1-ZiAWNQpGX4F7o/s1600/BEST+FRIENDS+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhMrK7FEu9c6mfsEDKmUa3Kxi0QDRk6oAMx3k44mHK6LT2yd6uKjppikSDkLTwmLVggfEB1g2ptatMtxRCb5gBJ6yABlYnkbMJBOSo30LZrn6y9n5mxX_XhzzCd6a1-ZiAWNQpGX4F7o/s400/BEST+FRIENDS+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653136677454383650" /></a><br /><br />Come by and see my new look at The Mustard Seed, 128 E Main, Henderson, Tx 75654<br /><br />Online Shopping coming Soon.<br /><br />Check me out on FacebookCarolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-82553412408132547492011-08-30T07:21:00.000-05:002011-08-30T07:22:04.954-05:00The Help<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNk5kR6aYUot8k1MIKwn-V3ljpWb90Qye0HtbiL_QpYP-Qkd2BgryHaJh_nmD8ur6Cau9C-xV-ARWEMJRLa5VGnV4sw62Y6xyYaUfv94M5QFTg54VUZggGTsBoxXVP1QfmfpksBaviLQ/s1600/The+Help.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 96px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyNk5kR6aYUot8k1MIKwn-V3ljpWb90Qye0HtbiL_QpYP-Qkd2BgryHaJh_nmD8ur6Cau9C-xV-ARWEMJRLa5VGnV4sw62Y6xyYaUfv94M5QFTg54VUZggGTsBoxXVP1QfmfpksBaviLQ/s400/The+Help.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646623182949482786" /></a>
<br />Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-49652562722221842242011-07-30T23:56:00.001-05:002011-07-30T23:58:36.576-05:00Retirement starts in one month!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2Hfsq_dJjKzq5BSFzyyH-bae_q73iJ9x6H8WDiKbGErsDRh7ue58pS1dGo8vQ66DpuHcQ9joJoMvTyOrxYaKsih3YaZ3linPA1q3e0Of5mELFkvhyphenhyphen2TTLJGpWaW3gk4KsVN2i5LCLjQ/s1600/rose+fence.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2Hfsq_dJjKzq5BSFzyyH-bae_q73iJ9x6H8WDiKbGErsDRh7ue58pS1dGo8vQ66DpuHcQ9joJoMvTyOrxYaKsih3YaZ3linPA1q3e0Of5mELFkvhyphenhyphen2TTLJGpWaW3gk4KsVN2i5LCLjQ/s400/rose+fence.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635376133502749970" /></a><br /><br /><br />I can't wait until I have plenty of time at home to do all the things I enjoy.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-10145555325577973352011-03-16T00:20:00.005-05:002011-03-16T00:30:24.360-05:00Southern Manners<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyR4_uM1otAf83rZfwY-MYdhxJbpMSD7WZYrYoJcKEDAuJmd2yIbj4Fqh_rVL4Rq_8tVMuRr2VdqnFcYI02GGqboX6id9WrHjmNSdg_oqnxE3PxXKxKO8nbxqppmcpsPaDf7yJy_lf-Z8/s1600/blue+porch.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 358px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyR4_uM1otAf83rZfwY-MYdhxJbpMSD7WZYrYoJcKEDAuJmd2yIbj4Fqh_rVL4Rq_8tVMuRr2VdqnFcYI02GGqboX6id9WrHjmNSdg_oqnxE3PxXKxKO8nbxqppmcpsPaDf7yJy_lf-Z8/s400/blue+porch.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584543928931652354" /></a><br />On Being a Lady <br />“What is a Lady” <br /><br />by Varina Jefferson Davis <br /><br />(Note: While the definition of a lady provided here may be a little dated, the basic concepts never go out of style. Varina Davis’ recommendations here are as sound and applicable today as they were in the 19th century.) <br /><br />A lady is simply someone who cares about herself and others. She sees that her garments are clean and neatly pressed, her shoes are polished, and every button is in place. She is neat and tidy even at the breakfast table and wishes to appear well to her own family. She keeps her hair clean and well-groomed and never puts her hand to her hair to re-arrange it or search for loose pins while others can see. <br /><br />A lady does not monopolize the conversation. She does not talk of herself and her own affairs but listens with well-simulated interest to a story that bores her. This is the mark of good breeding. She does not sit apart with one or two friends but makes the gentle effort to assure a good time for all with pleasant conversation. A lady does not say or do anything that will upset those around her or make them uncomfortable. <br /><br />A lady does not let any man kiss her or put his arm around her unless she is engaged to be married to him, and even then she should be a little stingy with her favors. <br /><br />A lady, when she brushes off her hat, does not forget to brush away the cobwebs…in her brain. She does not conclude that every man who has said something pleasant to her has fallen in love with her. <br /><br />A lady is possessed of refinement, which prevents her from all fidgeting, from playing with her handkerchief, her umbrella, her purse, or whatever may be in her hands. When she sits down she remains quietly, her hands resting easily without movement and her whole figure is filled with repose. She is calm, composed, self-controlled at all times, yet there are no airs about her. These qualities are what keep her from talking and laughing loudly, and they prevent her from hurting the feelings of anyone. <br /><br />A lady does not grow weary in well-doing but encourages herself by trying to live up to her ideal of a woman. <br /><br /> Adapted by Martha ClippingerCarolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-319263052901578262010-11-06T22:13:00.003-05:002010-11-06T22:16:43.963-05:00Our Newest Addition....Lucy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmcp6WWGeUt5R1GAV6kQd4AtzXqVrcPMlQE0OcgEKDqpzp6c0w0Ogx5qw_DYxDNRUXjj-YgM5u1q6lStHJDeFGNBcvtJ3IgYHtlNR-XUoQF9AcDa-JVryfOyXw-SHR8pcF8SlEd2GeDw/s1600/DSC_0031.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmcp6WWGeUt5R1GAV6kQd4AtzXqVrcPMlQE0OcgEKDqpzp6c0w0Ogx5qw_DYxDNRUXjj-YgM5u1q6lStHJDeFGNBcvtJ3IgYHtlNR-XUoQF9AcDa-JVryfOyXw-SHR8pcF8SlEd2GeDw/s400/DSC_0031.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536641377651710066" /></a>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-8715619415760461712010-10-10T20:39:00.001-05:002010-10-10T20:44:29.868-05:00Hannah and Lucy's First Night Together<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQreo-nXEXXrxFyX2Dgo1cTxOD-nyDxjWACKHYq03HFx-TTnsQGLZN8pjo1m8yHX2olVKtGgO_3zmYtFw3TtpVPTC_hzi0Ie5IodqsmEUj__oevgg1_bVFaXjRuRU_midoa00rV5CRcjs/s1600/Hannah+and+Lucy%27s+first+night+together.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQreo-nXEXXrxFyX2Dgo1cTxOD-nyDxjWACKHYq03HFx-TTnsQGLZN8pjo1m8yHX2olVKtGgO_3zmYtFw3TtpVPTC_hzi0Ie5IodqsmEUj__oevgg1_bVFaXjRuRU_midoa00rV5CRcjs/s400/Hannah+and+Lucy%27s+first+night+together.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526598386513006930" /></a>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-3441243750258163812010-09-30T23:01:00.000-05:002010-09-30T23:02:02.342-05:00Lucy is here!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESsA8qClxROz_s-Qd5RbdzEhwXl7-cxt3yoe7jWN3SH7Wysj1QWZGrftIu0Lj_5iLbVc2s69LFFx1uihdMmPxuLZ3nRO5fSK75DX4airBVOyWnvrk8vaN3O1o_PrmpjVFmQhG2AwiOPkM/s1600/Lucy+2+077.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESsA8qClxROz_s-Qd5RbdzEhwXl7-cxt3yoe7jWN3SH7Wysj1QWZGrftIu0Lj_5iLbVc2s69LFFx1uihdMmPxuLZ3nRO5fSK75DX4airBVOyWnvrk8vaN3O1o_PrmpjVFmQhG2AwiOPkM/s400/Lucy+2+077.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522921097847734274" /></a><br />Baby Lucy was born last Tuesday, Sept. 21. She is beautiful and oh so tiny. Weighing in at 4 lbs and 12 oz and a head full of light brown curly hair, she is God's masterpiece.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-57247292353011841802010-03-27T04:59:00.004-05:002010-03-28T08:22:19.782-05:00MeMe's Bunnies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNiuoWFdD1SES4RpMpkJQkSvv77ejZK4e7IWuihYOMDjhEs3SNRASaTsuaCvmyonyzJVdVXNPJ0h0ovEen-bEXnzRxGptlvWDNXZxf6DXBJrvk2Gqjw4uvhB234Kh0cghxKb5I90b8m8/s1600/bunnies.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNiuoWFdD1SES4RpMpkJQkSvv77ejZK4e7IWuihYOMDjhEs3SNRASaTsuaCvmyonyzJVdVXNPJ0h0ovEen-bEXnzRxGptlvWDNXZxf6DXBJrvk2Gqjw4uvhB234Kh0cghxKb5I90b8m8/s400/bunnies.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453251274167994450" /></a><br /><br />Frost a marshmallow and roll in coconut. Attach 2 mini marshmallows for the feet and decorate with candies for eyes, nose and whiskers. Cut a strip from the top edge of a large marshmallow and attach with frosting.<br /><br />Courtesy of Better Homes and GardensCarolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-24907289048035974682010-02-27T07:38:00.004-06:002010-02-27T07:43:08.833-06:00Spring.....where are you?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSEQZkuwB8HcibKJtZcQmv1Nm3p78UM8cIcxgwgdmjaO9wI4FMbVwQBKgIWPOGHLqPewanwD78e8V1L7gUBtMpb_B_YD6qriz6fyLZJkqOHM88r4a2kMlIEBT2CTPXtVYG7uQIIV066c/s1600-h/timthumb.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 159px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSEQZkuwB8HcibKJtZcQmv1Nm3p78UM8cIcxgwgdmjaO9wI4FMbVwQBKgIWPOGHLqPewanwD78e8V1L7gUBtMpb_B_YD6qriz6fyLZJkqOHM88r4a2kMlIEBT2CTPXtVYG7uQIIV066c/s400/timthumb.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442917381156537058" /></a><br /><br />It's coming...............Soon I hope.................SPRINGTIME<br /><br />What is your favorite thing about Spring? Mine is what Spring represents....a new beginning. Everything gets a fresh start, my flower beds, birdhouses, grass, pool, and a new look on the inside. I already want to redecorate my house. This weekend or next, I plan to decorate for Easter. This will be my first Easter that I will have all my grandchildren with me and are we going to have fun. Any ideas anyone?????Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-16148835204258822112010-02-06T21:08:00.001-06:002010-02-06T21:09:42.893-06:00Spring Project<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny2UiUleYUtsx0uxjQ6BVMQXE1S-m-v4b7S_nkOjNX4pTtdTbqwvuupmITIbsi8W0iYmgOitStBiUDb0gn1wVFATTNn-Qt6kfkMF_AbyMQ3E4Tsi1GloRg4z0siDePnWj4I1eC1b0wrc/s1600-h/BL10466E12_fBoxS.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny2UiUleYUtsx0uxjQ6BVMQXE1S-m-v4b7S_nkOjNX4pTtdTbqwvuupmITIbsi8W0iYmgOitStBiUDb0gn1wVFATTNn-Qt6kfkMF_AbyMQ3E4Tsi1GloRg4z0siDePnWj4I1eC1b0wrc/s400/BL10466E12_fBoxS.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435333404939221074" /></a>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-58077447983211748982010-01-03T17:45:00.003-06:002010-01-14T05:38:13.100-06:00OKAY EVERYONE........HERE IT IS!!!Sopapilla Cheese Cake<br /><br />2 cans Pillsbury Crescent Rolls <br />1 T vanilla<br />3 pkgs Kraft cream cheese <br />1 stick butter<br />2 cups sugar <br />2 T cinnamon<br /><br />Unroll 1 can of crescent roll in a baking pan.Blend cream cheese, 1 ½ cups sugar, and vanilla. <br />Spread over crescent roll. <br />Unroll another can of crescent rolls and place on top of filling. <br />Melt butter and pour over crescent roll. <br />Mix 1/2cup sugar and 2 T cinnamon. <br />Sprinkle over butter. <br />Bake at 350 for 30 min.<br /><br />Carol WingoBestfriends74@suddenlink.net<br /><br />For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-52994311298623070052010-01-02T06:39:00.003-06:002010-01-02T06:44:45.980-06:00Porch Inspirations<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNg_H5tWNPOnw1kgneVbYhh3o5UuMXFQ6HLemM_M639NAzW3JGalpA5XfwoCihewjQAviCJty7gZSS928XmvCTcrmVW9PLWRa8APzwSs0EtzVVLV_dmhn0oFsbRvbSOUlvOElJrjIcRPQ/s1600-h/chaise-longue-m.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNg_H5tWNPOnw1kgneVbYhh3o5UuMXFQ6HLemM_M639NAzW3JGalpA5XfwoCihewjQAviCJty7gZSS928XmvCTcrmVW9PLWRa8APzwSs0EtzVVLV_dmhn0oFsbRvbSOUlvOElJrjIcRPQ/s400/chaise-longue-m.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422121544357901410" /></a><br /><br />Lessons learned on the porch<br /><br />As a very young girl I was only allowed to walk on the sides of the street directly in front of my house. The block was short, only about 5 houses on each side. Each house had a front porch. Some were screened in, while others were open with rockers and swings. I was familiar with them all. Everyone on my street was old but they all simply seem to be waiting on their porch for me to come and visit.<br /> To the left of my parents home was Ms. Kempff. When I would visit we would sit on her porch in her white wicker rockers and share milk and cookies. From those hours spent on her porch I learned hospitality. From giving parties, how to set a table, and how to sit like a lady. She gave me one of her old purses, because a “lady” must always have a beautiful purse to hang on her arm. It was light blue velvet with gold trim and had flowers sewn on the front. Inside was a picture of her in her flower garden. Her flower garden was grown alongside her porch and I was always able to cut fresh flowers daily and arrange them in a vase for her to enjoy. On that porch I was taught, without knowing it, the beauty of friendship, warmth of hospitality, enjoyment of the flowers that surrounded us. She shared with me her favorite scriptures and even gave me a book on the life of Christ.<br />Across the street was Mr. Haude’s(pronounced howdy) house. I loved walking by his home and seeing him on the front porch. I would shout “Howdy Mr. Haude!” and just break out in giggles. Mr. Haude had a big swing on the porch and one rocker. He would sit in the rocker and I would have the swing all by myself. He was a poor man but rich in love. He had a smile that never vanished from his face. He taught me to listen to the sounds in the neighborhood, the crickets, a bicycle that had a slip in the chain, and the water rushing through the ditch after a big rain. I even learned to YO YO on that porch. <br />Other porches have come about in my life and all have taught me valuable lessons.<br />Grandmother Cook’s front porch was the first place I learned that she had breast cancer and that God and her were working on a plan.<br />Aunt Vicky’s porch was where I learned to shell peas.<br />Aunt Helen’s porch was where I was taught the art of folding clothes and napping.<br />Cracker Barrel’s front porch taught me the art of people watching. It was also there I taught my granddaughter to rock.<br />And of course the porch on our shop where Ed and I spend many hours of rocking in our chairs and talking has taught me how to share all the things that are important. We have planned many trips, what we will plant next season, what Ed will build and how I will decorate. And what blessings God has given us. It seemed to us that God had shown and continues to show his favor.<br /><br />As the New Year begins, I will strive to have more time on my porch with quiet reflections from God. I cling to God’s promise from Jeremiah: “And I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). I am assured that no matter what lies ahead; God and I will go through it together. My days – my year – are in God’s hand. I trust in His promise that “you will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).<br />Today is a new day, the start of a new year, and I know God has cleansed my heart and made it His. That, above all, is cause for celebration.<br /><br />Father of new beginnings, I dedicate not only this day, but this entire year, to You. May each step of the journey ahead give me cause for celebration. Remind me often that You always walk beside me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-20687975706593925732009-12-18T15:21:00.002-06:002009-12-18T15:27:21.739-06:00Holiday Tip #9<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVhEo0fyKZVU-I7QNoTcG1HWIwzRfAj4eED4HsMWNvinqDF1AxVqPwe7JypiFmj4k0VtylqsTp1wg90MpHIEBDmiBgiu2Loq76TTp_uAmHWQapexsJZ9_rG616a8oPwyNoN22C9-IkhY/s1600-h/magnolia-wreaths-windows-l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVhEo0fyKZVU-I7QNoTcG1HWIwzRfAj4eED4HsMWNvinqDF1AxVqPwe7JypiFmj4k0VtylqsTp1wg90MpHIEBDmiBgiu2Loq76TTp_uAmHWQapexsJZ9_rG616a8oPwyNoN22C9-IkhY/s400/magnolia-wreaths-windows-l.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416690888084906578" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Keep a wooden bowl or basket by the front door filled with little inexpensive or handmade ornaments. Give them to family and friends when they head for their own homes. These little tokens are also a nice surprise for people who deliver the mail or newspaper, read meters or clean your house.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-44751578932949154642009-12-08T21:21:00.003-06:002009-12-08T21:24:05.828-06:00Holiday Tip #8<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOEhTc4OJhB612kSilDSbsagBvBW9_GgEJ2XmHyRaaJWrzODrYVPGCzetAbQv15hAfqZ5hLLmXrzW0S527tzIYUKjohoLOifkR37etLDRd-VYlVdHDAqxWh6VSxJLwk48-0-OXFOfo1A/s1600-h/NCAA1LEORCAWU9284CABHIAZUCA1VZ0QBCAON6601CA4ROAZ0CARZW0OBCA2XQ5UGCAFBMIAQCA1XNYDICAETDTIGCA3LSRKGCAZQCK0TCA5RNTB4CAJR774TCAD2OMP6CA2TMH47CAKCNT9PCABG6Z8L.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 141px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOEhTc4OJhB612kSilDSbsagBvBW9_GgEJ2XmHyRaaJWrzODrYVPGCzetAbQv15hAfqZ5hLLmXrzW0S527tzIYUKjohoLOifkR37etLDRd-VYlVdHDAqxWh6VSxJLwk48-0-OXFOfo1A/s400/NCAA1LEORCAWU9284CABHIAZUCA1VZ0QBCAON6601CA4ROAZ0CARZW0OBCA2XQ5UGCAFBMIAQCA1XNYDICAETDTIGCA3LSRKGCAZQCK0TCA5RNTB4CAJR774TCAD2OMP6CA2TMH47CAKCNT9PCABG6Z8L.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413071570001686242" /></a><br /><br />Take green apples, hollow them out, and fill with Sweetheart roses cut so only the blooms show.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-9200568264040491242009-12-06T20:35:00.002-06:002009-12-06T20:40:18.048-06:00Holiday Tip #7<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6ExlK2CwJffyFnPV2NGNuOj240aytnTkxe8Fb4NM2sz_WhACztiXC22J5Ln2rdkb5RamWIueP5cjD7TkpSZGELQewl77wdOjvGtcrkSKWzynvLkLs2CxMyEisQjq1HFq0YY0KGWth9k/s1600-h/JCA87X595CANE4S0PCAKTE3K2CA8B2UHNCARJJ6LRCA53L7CWCA729TCXCA5LWSCECABAG233CA2MKJX4CAL0604NCANF9Y7WCA8FVHN3CAMP49B1CAWW1H4GCAD7SN0UCAYP0CPTCAR7PSD7CATNOOXV.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 101px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6ExlK2CwJffyFnPV2NGNuOj240aytnTkxe8Fb4NM2sz_WhACztiXC22J5Ln2rdkb5RamWIueP5cjD7TkpSZGELQewl77wdOjvGtcrkSKWzynvLkLs2CxMyEisQjq1HFq0YY0KGWth9k/s400/JCA87X595CANE4S0PCAKTE3K2CA8B2UHNCARJJ6LRCA53L7CWCA729TCXCA5LWSCECABAG233CA2MKJX4CAL0604NCANF9Y7WCA8FVHN3CAMP49B1CAWW1H4GCAD7SN0UCAYP0CPTCAR7PSD7CATNOOXV.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412318505814090466" /></a><br /><br />Once your child is old enough to come up with “wish lists” for Christmas, date them and file away after Santa has done his shopping. When your children are grown, they will enjoy looking over a piece of their past.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-53039945533616542072009-12-04T18:15:00.002-06:002009-12-04T18:19:44.943-06:00Holiday Tip #6<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOBN9AtmR8Qis12WMgv-Iag9K06VBNAcYTTm6ou3pAZEYWfB-wUtEX87dmWzusK4bO260WVxn_PpRUCxoMwVDhPwLnVC8jtwL9IpDhRTNdBAvjN-Yawx9w9MSROhgw7aI1BTrJfWdwwQ/s1600-h/handcrafted-christmas-ornaments_30163.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrOBN9AtmR8Qis12WMgv-Iag9K06VBNAcYTTm6ou3pAZEYWfB-wUtEX87dmWzusK4bO260WVxn_PpRUCxoMwVDhPwLnVC8jtwL9IpDhRTNdBAvjN-Yawx9w9MSROhgw7aI1BTrJfWdwwQ/s400/handcrafted-christmas-ornaments_30163.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411540085077055810" /></a><br /><br /><br />Set white votives in a bowl of coarse salt for "candles in the snow".Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-38186178678809131342009-12-02T05:38:00.002-06:002009-12-02T05:39:37.504-06:00Holiday Tip #5<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixktOoeH2hHY2-AzHaXt5zCuGqxfhKAUAm4EiZ_vq_pjLaAkvkJls2MmkKL3R_7BBhoUXlqkWgmMgSwW8_kFQ-p94IW3T-0HEKxVNJcEn_yXPT2T_MW5oFOMQ8lHIoY8skPlvkhaWs54g/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixktOoeH2hHY2-AzHaXt5zCuGqxfhKAUAm4EiZ_vq_pjLaAkvkJls2MmkKL3R_7BBhoUXlqkWgmMgSwW8_kFQ-p94IW3T-0HEKxVNJcEn_yXPT2T_MW5oFOMQ8lHIoY8skPlvkhaWs54g/s400/images.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410602081649768018" /></a><br /><br /><br />Once your child is old enough to come up with “wish lists” for Christmas, date them and file away after Santa has done his shopping. When your children are grown, they will enjoy looking over a piece of their past.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-63333111904739966142009-12-01T04:33:00.004-06:002009-12-01T04:38:29.061-06:00Holiday Tip #4<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMRrWAQPJtOefNKt65vSC_nv2WVfCJ7LZHRV-JORngvTTCsTLGmRIk8dvnxnEOlSYg-iuz51jvGKVFTuZRsoDk037BjGGgeHAdE4tXL1H3phqjO6CzHpJOdGhN1uSzQLhvUtasCsVJsO8/s1600/tn_tomtenvorhaus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 104px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMRrWAQPJtOefNKt65vSC_nv2WVfCJ7LZHRV-JORngvTTCsTLGmRIk8dvnxnEOlSYg-iuz51jvGKVFTuZRsoDk037BjGGgeHAdE4tXL1H3phqjO6CzHpJOdGhN1uSzQLhvUtasCsVJsO8/s320/tn_tomtenvorhaus.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410214840559101122" /></a><br /><br /><br />Light a candle by your back door before loved ones arrive home.<br />A handful of potpourri tossed into a roaring fire will give a burst of Christmas scent to a room.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-73444305400534247962009-11-29T13:52:00.002-06:002009-11-29T14:01:00.781-06:00Holiday Tip #3<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1138b-O9xZk2lmUMZqQ1rKMt_v2pV_kVgQNm1eaVwkww4u9WB_Kas6yezqqK2Q8iCOJm6-rDqpB9r2Kjg14t7thmuObSiFlIE6c7H3LS6ncCvYYA1mDA0xPO_o3iATzrtCtRAed6l-Dc/s1600/ss_bhgvideofall616a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1138b-O9xZk2lmUMZqQ1rKMt_v2pV_kVgQNm1eaVwkww4u9WB_Kas6yezqqK2Q8iCOJm6-rDqpB9r2Kjg14t7thmuObSiFlIE6c7H3LS6ncCvYYA1mDA0xPO_o3iATzrtCtRAed6l-Dc/s320/ss_bhgvideofall616a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409618058175441410" /></a><br /><br /><br />Surround a candle with cloves to release a spicy aroma.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-27832041198976011052009-11-26T18:58:00.002-06:002009-11-26T19:24:06.111-06:00Holiday Tip #2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA80ZfOKKYnIenXeudGKgbJYqQFm8CGUQsKVtfy2FCgTZf86a36JmFfapHDXXHqHemL1kCNMX9piRT5R54h3PWiwULlKmkMmgfVAxaJH_1BocSPh6xhgdjP12fkYPPlIt79-2bbF3MI8A/s1600/twinkling-lights-s.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA80ZfOKKYnIenXeudGKgbJYqQFm8CGUQsKVtfy2FCgTZf86a36JmFfapHDXXHqHemL1kCNMX9piRT5R54h3PWiwULlKmkMmgfVAxaJH_1BocSPh6xhgdjP12fkYPPlIt79-2bbF3MI8A/s200/twinkling-lights-s.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408588061517404306" /></a><br /><br />Gather each corner of a tablecloth and tie with a ribbon for a special look.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-8553313035196484242009-11-24T07:18:00.003-06:002009-11-24T07:27:03.820-06:00Happy Holidays! Tip #1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlePNkQCwaVpN7agaEOsf25k04Egk9g4FajqJGKhOkaK3wKGo0o-5snPyC-of2ZZ-UqDh_3C6GUG5Lb0sWqF_TxeOHo1QUO6Yne_Ek85wq6vPgVR7GrqWzqS3wV3vMPo1jxT64ObLLVpM/s1600/cottage_letitglow_3_xl.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 190px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlePNkQCwaVpN7agaEOsf25k04Egk9g4FajqJGKhOkaK3wKGo0o-5snPyC-of2ZZ-UqDh_3C6GUG5Lb0sWqF_TxeOHo1QUO6Yne_Ek85wq6vPgVR7GrqWzqS3wV3vMPo1jxT64ObLLVpM/s200/cottage_letitglow_3_xl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407661045693356674" /></a><br /><br />Use inexpensive fillers to decorate your tree. Hang pinecones with raffia or tie lots of bows.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-37500363837167807852009-11-07T22:44:00.006-06:002009-11-21T15:59:08.861-06:00Check back everyday for a new idea for the holidays!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIoQvfVCJU_zVhSVZs2JF9rhVathsAc6QI5S58eLTLY71Eu6bsfNdmwQI7ZSZUxWhoDi6QjBBnCSOJXiSjO5oehtyIvDVMbcMiTz1HCCuzykDLHcQubE51dbh3fbtlVSDdOXU0DJEA04/s1600-h/santared.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 70px; height: 106px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtIoQvfVCJU_zVhSVZs2JF9rhVathsAc6QI5S58eLTLY71Eu6bsfNdmwQI7ZSZUxWhoDi6QjBBnCSOJXiSjO5oehtyIvDVMbcMiTz1HCCuzykDLHcQubE51dbh3fbtlVSDdOXU0DJEA04/s200/santared.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404099760691777218" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />It is decorating time for the holidays. Let's get inspired by each other and our ideas. Everyday I will post a new decorating idea. Please leave me a comment to share your ideas also. Lets go...................... <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>Dress up ordinary card envelopes using a Christmas-tree rubber stamp, a square of gift wrap, and a tiny box.<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>What to do with all those leftover pieces of gift wrap? Run them through a shredder for instant confetti. Sprinkle the confetti inside a clear bag, slide in a card, then use ribbon to tie a gift tag at the top.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>Let the countdown begin with twenty four numbered take-out containers. Fill with candy or other small treats and mark the progress toward the big day.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>When your kids start having homes and Christmas trees of their own, pass on some treasured ornaments to remind them of the holidays you have shared as a family.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>In the midst of making things “special”… don’t lose the simple.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s1600-h/kids-tree.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 79px; height: 107px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKnGlb7wVB1myjd1gI2wVq5Xafq9F8JScnD9v817a-W7CUJobKccucaLEq57WuJcPqcpvsbyim3L2reodrm5THlpFfwU53DlTSNxpU5rScymtWmrsGiqSrJepOTAq6mmAdqdDKUf_KUFo/s200/kids-tree.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404100185147868514" /></a>Simple, white candles (electric or battery-operated) in your front windows will give an easy, elegant glow to your home’s exterior.Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-42263189079999658562009-11-02T21:25:00.000-06:002009-11-02T22:14:18.827-06:00Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIV1BqP-fVI5KpxnGyAvKmOx5xxR07cpqPFv8sbFqEbYAxBBY93r48UDKBYIT6zPl8INSptjEYqgGFp7RIUpR07vVsJDcmzvRjIiv6txgprxfYUTqOXecmxhZlO57_H2ocL8pRzjP9rpc/s1600-h/Karla+Dornacher.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399725711411423970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 234px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIV1BqP-fVI5KpxnGyAvKmOx5xxR07cpqPFv8sbFqEbYAxBBY93r48UDKBYIT6zPl8INSptjEYqgGFp7RIUpR07vVsJDcmzvRjIiv6txgprxfYUTqOXecmxhZlO57_H2ocL8pRzjP9rpc/s320/Karla+Dornacher.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color:#330099;"></span><br /><span style="color:#330099;">“Don’t look at that lady! She is a gypsy.”<br /><br />Now at seven years old, the word gypsy is foreign to me. And telling me not to look at her, made me want to look even more. With every head bowed and every eye closed, this was my big chance, to stare for one good minute and wonder why no one liked her. She came to church every Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night. She sat near the front and never opened the hymnal. She knew the songs by heart. And she always smiled…at me…at my parents…at everyone around her.<br /><br />Her hair was brown and hung in soft curls to the mid part of her back. Her earrings were long and dangled to her shoulders. Her skirt was full and fell just past her knees and swirled around her as she walked.<br /><br />She was always alone. I never saw anyone shake her hand or speak. But still she smiled. In my secret moments of staring, I saw her look back at me. Her eyes twinkled with kindness and her smile made me think I was special. “Gypsy” was someone I liked. And someone I would never forget.<br /><br />She had joy.</span>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080524129160034612.post-28618291828826368942009-10-25T06:00:00.000-05:002009-10-25T20:56:17.974-05:00For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah29:11<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UqOEsqgSz0yh78YQFIxDmmazqwYSkn22i8AdQDpe-y9EZWMuVU2rfid_JDMO99fS5MVNPkCwR54o5hnxmlXVshsyH7ejS_GHY-4FA5ayhLsQTM0d1wXhnSNWjbyuOhnV60maxqlxWL0/s1600-h/IMG_0144.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396491460623753378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UqOEsqgSz0yh78YQFIxDmmazqwYSkn22i8AdQDpe-y9EZWMuVU2rfid_JDMO99fS5MVNPkCwR54o5hnxmlXVshsyH7ejS_GHY-4FA5ayhLsQTM0d1wXhnSNWjbyuOhnV60maxqlxWL0/s320/IMG_0144.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05162380222608484388noreply@blogger.com0