Places of my Heart

~touches of sweetness

2012-02-14T10:40:00.000-06:00

just little reminders

are needed

to let others know

they are special and loved

adding a touch of sweetness

always makes life more enjoyable

Happy Valentine's Day

to all of you who have encouraged and

scrolled the pages of

Places of my Heart~

The best and most beautiful things

in the world cannot be seen

or even touched.

They must be felt with the heart.
~Helen Keller

~INTO

2012-02-10T23:41:00.001-06:00

Wednesday's capture with my phone

while headed to eat lunch with my sweetheart

Have your heart right with Christ,

and He will visit you often,

And so turn weekdays into Sundays,

meals into sacraments,

homes into temples and earth into heaven.

~Charles Spurgeon

~Warming the Heart

2012-02-03T11:28:00.000-06:00

Happiness consists not of having,

but of being;

not of possessing,

but enjoying.

It is the warm glow of a heart

at peace with itself...

William George Jordan

May your heart be warmed this weekend,

by being and enjoying the moments.

~Karen

Roots Exposed ~

2012-02-01T09:39:00.003-06:00

The ride to the bluff was a treacherous one...

bumps, washouts and ruts

it was twenty four days into November

we made the late afternoon ride to mark it with
a 2 and a 5
to remember the day we said "I do"
~~~

the tree that bore the first markings

as fresh sweethearts

was no where found after a lengthy search
we had hoped to mark the years spent
underneath the first

maybe the wind, man or other forces

had taken toll?

~~~

the knife with skillful hands

carefully scratched the years

in the smooth bark of a new beech

as I waited with camera in hand

my eyes and heart were not able to miss

the sight of the tree's base down below,

the beech tree roots

running on the ground

reaching for nourishment

but exposed so raw

tall and straight
roots bare and sprinkled with colors of beauty

but exposed to forces of nature and man

My hearts condition lay bare
at the base of the tree
the LORD stirring my heart

with full exposure
the shutter clicked

convicting thoughts tugged
~~~
send your roots deep
prepare for the storms of life

desire a fresh word
~~~
how am I to withstand the
"mama said, there'd be days like this"

standing straight to the trials and the forces
that come with the living-life
~~~
the inevitable but unseen and unknown
making their unwanted visits

The unwanted is no respecter of persons
~~~
My roots must be covered
they must run deep into God's Word,
be buried in His way.

Landscaping using His Word to cover
and watering with prayer to add beauty
of My Saviour's Love

within a few short weeks,
of the ride to the bluff, life storms blew
the inevitable was encountered
death visited our family
...How did we stand?

with the support of God's ever-ready
comforting peace
and the love of family and friends

“The tree on the mountain

takes whatever the weather brings.

If it has any choice at all,

it is in putting down roots as deeply as possible."

---Each New Day” ― Corrie ten Boom

I found this on pinterest

a few weeks ago -

just another affirmation

of His desiring us to be grounded

In HIM.

Source: be-the-change.tumblr.com via Karen on Pinterest

I pray you are sending your roots down deep.

In Him,

Karen

fun in the midst of trials

2012-01-27T09:09:00.001-06:00

Thank you for your visits to Places of my Heart.

I am experiencing problems with blogger

at this time. I disabled comments on two posts

and was unsuccessful enabling for the post about
St. Mary's Cathedral.

Thank you for your quiet visits and for the emails received.

It has blessed my heart to know that you have

been able to capture the beauty and reverence

of this historic place of worship.

~~~

We've had a visitor.

The birds had to share the birdfeeder yesterday.

Excuse the quality of the picture,

it was raining and I snapped the picture

through the dining room window.

He hung around most of the day.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

St. Mary's Cathedral ~ Natchez, MS

2012-01-26T10:43:00.001-06:00

~this past November we made a stop in Natchez, MS

the above picture was taken standing on the bank

of the Mississippi River over the state line in Vidalia, LA

looking back across the river to Natchez

The sun was beginning to make its first appearance

on that Saturday morning.

I love how the sun's glow is highlighting

the church steeple.

We drove back across the bridge and took our

youngest on a quick drive through downtown

Natchez. He enjoyed the drive through the

historic downtown, as much as a teenage boy

would. But, I insisted that my husband stop

and let us go inside...

the steeple that was captured in the

first picture belonged to this grand church

I was very surpised when I entered the foyer

and there above the doors was this sign

Eucharist ~ Thanksgiving

as we stood in the foyer and read the words of how to

enter the church in reverence... I prepared the youngest

who had never entered or attended a church of this faith

all new surroundings for him awaited as he opened the doors

~Breath-taking~

he was in awe & I too was still over-taken with the beauty

My husband and I had made a visit to St. Mary's Cathedral

back in the early 90's. But, the beauty and architecture are still amazing as the first visit.

it was the mid morning hours and

the sun was streaming in the windows

as we stood in the quiet,

with only whispers to each other

thoughts came of my Saviour's life, death, and resurrection

so thankful He rose from the grave

after the horrible death on the cross

~~~

but, after loading the pictures I thought of the

scriptures found in Isaiah 6:1-5

describing God's glory

His train filling the temple

and how Isaiah describes himself

In the year that King Uzziah died,

I saw the Lord sitting on a throne,

high and lifted up, and the train of His [robe] filled the temple.

Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings:

with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet,

and with two he flew.

And one cried to another and said:

"Holy, holy, holy [is] the LORD of hosts;

The whole earth [is] full of His glory!"

And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke.

So I said: "Woe [is] me, for I am undone!

Because I [am] a man of unclean lips,

And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips;

For my eyes have seen the King, The LORD of hosts."

Isaiah 6:1-5 NKJV

Hope you enjoyed the tour~

Karen

City on a Hill ~

2012-01-21T19:05:00.000-06:00

photo taken November, 2011 in Vidalia, LA

looking across the mighty Mississippi River to Vicksburg, MS

as the sun was beginning to make the first appearance of the day

May our lives reflect Jesus

to those who are looking for THE LIGHT.

In Him,

Karen

Linking to Spiritual Sundays.

when all is quiet~

2012-01-19T09:39:00.000-06:00

Intentionally quiet

The past nineteen days of January

have slipped slowly as only the necessary was done.

even quietness fell here .... at Places of my Heart

In the fast-paced world's eyes,

January will have gone in a blink.

When we slow and quiet ourselves in the LORD,

through prayer and in His Word

a new perspective of the time-clock is gained.

learning to eliminate

the unnecessary and concentrate on the necessary

...in quietness and in [trusting] confidence shall be your strength.

Isaiah 30:15 Amplified

allowing the LORD to speak

listening for HIM in all things

Re-discovering delights

what delights us ~ directs us

Pulling away from those things that consume,

that have no eternal value

and spending time alone with God.

Be still and rest in the Lord;

Psalm 37:7a Amplified

Regaining focus and perspective...

sitting still and opening the heart,

laying it bear...exposed and allowing Him

to share His thoughts.

Pen and paper close at hand,

for jotting down

those that could come and go.

~~~

Developing a quiet spirit by spending time

with God, results in a peace that He is in

ultimate control & increases the desire to

have this daily time with Him.

Delighting Him with the Fellowship

In Him,

Karen

Comments have been removed at Places of My Heart.

Communication is accepted via e-mail.

wishing.....

2011-12-23T23:02:00.000-06:00

~the greatest Gift of all

2011-12-19T08:27:00.000-06:00

the cross in christmas from tammi dryden on Vimeo.

Christmas

2011-12-15T10:28:00.000-06:00

~capturing the true meaning of Christmas

Jesus came as a babe

lade in a manger

lived a sinless perfect life

took our sin upon Himself on the cross

to allow us life with Him forever

by accepting this free gift

What gift can we bring that is fit for a King?

Our love and devotion to HIM.

Praise and Thanksgiving

but, first

our acceptance of

Jesus, Christ as Lord & Saviour

this is what He wants for Christmas

John 3:16

~~~

Our families' hearts are heavy this Season.

My father-in-law will be spending Christmas with Jesus.

He went to be with the Lord last night.

Prayer is what others can do

to share in the heaviness and lighten

the load for those who are hurting.

"It's us oh, Lord who are standing in the need of prayer"

Merry Christmas

from our family

to yours,

~Karen

~Once in a lifetime...

2011-11-30T10:14:00.000-06:00

jealousy would be wrong...

but just to think my duck hunting guys get to see this

~ I am a little envious ~

the above picture was the first view my eyes rested upon

when we arrived at the duck blind last Friday morning

every second the view was changing

because of the fog on the river

The boys had been wanting me to go for quite some time.

I agreed, but almost backed out.

45 degrees & 4:30 a.m. - not my favs

We were in Louisiana at our son's home for Thanksgiving.

I heard the oldest & youngest along with their dad

getting suited up in the living room.

Putting on their layers of clothing while dad broke

the news "mom just don't think she can do it".

In a split second,

I had a change of mind ~ just like I'm prone to do.

But, I must say when I loaded in the boat, with help,

at the launch on the Red River,

I wished my toes & my nerves had still been resting

under the warm covers back at the house.

IT WAS SOOOO FOGGY!!!

I covered my stocking cap head with a blanket

and never peeked until we pulled into the duck blind.

~Words I could hear through the layers wrapping my head~

Dad, I can't see the tree line.

you are on the other side of the buoy where the rocks are

turn the light off I can't see anything with it on

what was that?

there should be another marker - I don't see it.

oh my, there's the port - almost turned in

I had a wonderful prayer time on the 15 minute boat ride.

Mom looked for beauty all around

~when the ducks don't fly

I posted the pictures in order of the morning events.

Fog would thin and then thicken.

The ducks could not see where to fly into.

So needless to say - no ducks, just decoys.

The sun had a really hard time burning through.

A breeze started blowing and blew the fog out.

Or at least that's what the guys said.

I enjoyed every minute ~ even savored my morning coffee.

Just don't think I'm cut out for riding the river.

The oldest son had prepared me for his change in appearance

before we arrived last week.

He had started growing his duck hunting beard back in September.

The shaving date is set for February!

Oh, my!

The youngest tried to grow one for the week. :))

~the duck hunting make-up is lacking alot

I didn't even give it a try.

Such beautiful pictures painted

just for our eyes to behold and enjoy.

So glad I did not miss it!

Dad enjoying his time off and time spent with his boys.

The ride home!

Joining the others for Outdoor Wednesday

12 days + 25 years

2011-11-29T13:00:00.001-06:00

12 days....since my last post

oh my!

How time passes when you are having fun.

We have traveled to Louisiana during those 12 days

to visit family and enjoyed our week stay.

We returned home on Sunday with lots of

memories, (blogging posts - can't wait to share) pictures,

and suitcases to unpack.

Yesterday, our first day back, we took time

to remember the events of a special day

that took place 25 years ago.

Our Wedding Day

November 28, 1986

Oh how the hands of the clock have moved quickly.

But, I must say alot of water has run under the bridge, too!

We've learned to love with a much deeper love

and communicate in different ways.

We shared a fun evening together.

(pizza & Wal-mart) = your morning laugh!

I have plans to prepare a nice dinner tonight...

just could not put it all together yesterday.

We are planning to celebrate our 25th

with a memorable get-away

after the first of the year.

It is such a busy time for us,
this time of year.

Dinner Menu

Petite Dinner Rolls
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Toasted Pecans

Cornish Hens with Lemons and Rosemary

Green Bean Bundles
Iced Lemon Tea

Chocolate Mint Brownies topped with cream

I am not promising pictures - due to food prep overload. :)

The dishes are Lynmore Golden Rose.

My grandmother gave me

two demitasse cups with the saucers

approximately 30 years ago.

I have collected for approximately 20 years

and now have a large collection of this pattern.

~~~

Hope you are having fun

preparing for Christmas.

We are getting our decorations

down from the attic tonight and

I'll be sharing my home with you.

~~~

I have missed visiting with all of you.

Hoping to play catch-up soon.

:-)

Karen

Wishing you....

2011-11-17T11:34:00.000-06:00

All a Happy Thanksgiving.

mundane=monumental

2011-11-07T13:58:00.000-06:00

We need deliberately to call to mind the joys of our journey.

Perhaps we should try to write down the blessings of one day.

We might begin; we could never end;

there are not pens or paper enough in all the world.

George A. Buttrick

-the heart & soul longs to be filled

A grateful heart is one that finds

the countless blessings of God

in the seemingly mundane everyday life.

-anoymous

~~~

mundane:concerned with the

practical details of everyday life

~~~

Our Lord & Creator specializes in the details-

little things - joy givers - ones that bring smiles

He's offering to fill with the mundane.

~~~

201. boys of fall wearing pink fuzzy wristbands & socks for a cause
202. new great grandmothers holding bundles of joy

203. leaves of beauty coming to rest in chairs of rest

Redefining mundane with His definition.

204. guitar strumming by the fireside

205. hands joined in Sunday morning worship

206. hot cider warming the hands through the cup

the journey is not one of joy

when naming & numbering stops

allowing Him to fill us
erasing the bitterness

easing the heartache

and letting the mundane

become the monumental

Opening the eyes to gratitude
and filling the heart with His joy!

~food, fun & football

2011-11-05T16:59:00.000-05:00

hAViNg FUN

with the youngest son today

I took requests for the evening meal

and he suggested

Jambalaya

Zatarain's New Orleans Style

Jambalaya Mix Original

and added sausage & pre-cooked chicken

GEAUX LSU!!!

~november's beginnings

2011-11-01T10:25:00.000-05:00

learning a different pace of life

~~~

enjoying the sweetness of slowing

not hurrying through life,

taking the back roads

adds a whole different meaning

to living life to it's fullest

and the most wonderful surprises can be waiting

around the bend of the road

take the extra moments to turn the engine off

and explore up close

those surprises you are given

beauty can be found

trials, heartaches are beauty being developed

requiring our attention to be turned toward

the Source of our strength, the Lord.

He makes all things beautiful in His time.

"Lord, please show me every day

as You're teaching me Your way,

that You do just what You say

in Your time."

words: Diane Ball 1941

~may your November beginnings

be slow and focused upon

having thankful hearts.

Karen

~arrival of Autumn

2011-10-20T18:13:00.000-05:00

~said the owl to the scarecrow,

"there is no doubt,

be careful with whooooom you hang out!"

-J. Brown

~~~

loving this time of year

cooler temps ~ the vibrant colors ~ comforts of home

Welcome

Mr. Rooster rests on the bar and seen promptly

when entering the back door.

~back door guests are the best

this grouping on the kitchen cabinet

is convenient for serving from the bar

whether buffet style or dessert

~ the entry and entertainment center groupings

have been shared on a earlier post

hope you don't mind me sharing them again

~love the pencil texture I have added on this one

my mother-in-law painted the lovely card

with the sunflower and I framed it

~the picture below is just a "snip-it"

of what I must accomplish

this next week

Linking to the following:

~Nestled together

2011-10-11T11:39:00.005-05:00

The combining of wildlife with fall decor

makes a beautiful combination.

I positioned the pheasants on top of a crystal cake stand

and added the fall stems along with the pumpkins & gourds

to create a great nesting spot.

This grouping sits on top of the TV Cabinet.

The ceramic columns add the height needed

and can be used in many different groupings

and seasons.

(having fun by adding a burlap texture to this photo)

You may delay, but time will not.

~Benjamin Franklin

Joining the others at

Tabletop Tuesday.

~thursday & friday nights

2011-10-07T11:48:00.000-05:00

Thursday nights our football team
(The Warriors - the white jerseys)
are treated to a

home cooked sit down meal

before the game on Friday.

Last night we took our turn in helping
prepare the meal. We prepared enough for 70+
The menu consisted of soups, chili, and gumbo.

Guess who cooked the gumbo?

I posted the recipe last October.
Click here if you would like the recipe.

It was a hit!!!

That's our boy!

His mama thinks he goes up against

the ones, way to big for him.

The boys are makings great memories

on Thursday & Friday nights.

Not only memories being made

but, the guys are hearing

important principles on Thursday nights.

They are finding they have some great role models

whom they can come to anytime &

someone who cares about them....

Last night was special,
not only for getting to help
plan & prepare the meal,
but Nathan was able to share with them.

He asked the boys to help him with the
object of the game
and then he related those things
to the game of life.

Choosing the right team
&
Giving your all

Friday nights spent in the stands!

Cheering them on to victory.
The team's fans are die-hard supporters.
Home or Away
~~~
We are 3-0 in our division.

GO WARRIORS!!!

~fall in the foyer

2011-10-05T11:45:00.000-05:00

the reflecting colors seen as the light penetrates the bowl

reminds me of stained glass windows

~~~

ran some errands yesterday in town

and visited with a sweet friend

in her gift shop & purchased

this beautiful bowl and easel

the foyer table was the most suitable place

for the light to reflect all the colors

I do believe this new purchase may be

used year round.

fall leaves, caladium leaves,

and I do believe I see some holly leaves....

bringing the beauty of fall into our home

O O O

“How beautifully leaves grow old.

How full of light and color are their last days.”

John Burroughs

weekends are for growing friends...

2011-10-01T11:52:00.000-05:00

hearts are meshed into one

those you are comfortable with

even in long pauses of conversation

intently listening

one who feels "heard" seeks out

his friendly listener again

and counts him a great friend

relational from inside to out

Interpersonal relationships neglected

leaves us to fall apart

too busy - doing good things

to build relationships

brings emptiness

A life of fullness

~sharing out heart and home to others

building relationships with friends and family.

~~~

Two are better than one; because they have

a good reward for their labour.

For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 KJV

sharing weekends,

Karen

p.s. Thank you all for your encouraging comments and e-mails

the past few days. The home-going service for my dear friend

was special and the abundance of flowers were beautiful.

~new gardner in Heaven

2011-09-27T14:15:00.000-05:00

~One of Hers

Almost a year ago I shared someone special with you.

I gave the post the title of "neighbors".

Be sure to click and read my heart.

Today she is busy I'm sure

~ checking out all the flowers and visiting.

She went to be with the Lord this morning.

My heart is broken, because of the loss.

I will see her again.

Trying to find comfort in knowing she has her new body

and busy as ever sharing her stories.

Please pray for comfort & peace.

~Karen

~divine appointment

2011-09-24T21:41:00.001-05:00

Linking to:

autumn - season of harvest

2011-09-23T22:39:00.000-05:00

It is the summer's great last heat,

It is the fall's first chill: They meet.

-Sarah Morgan Bryan Piatt

~Autumn has caught us in our summer wear. - Phillip Larkin

~time of gathering~

the last of the corn pulled for the squirrels

~banana peppers are found in what remains

of the summer garden

~beauty still hanging and thriving on the corn stalks

~the guarantee

temperatures are dropping

days are getting shorter

nights are getting longer

and the spider lilies "are blooming"

the sure sign that fall is upon us

~preparing the small fall and winter garden

green onions are already in the ground

How can you tell fall is in the air?

Have a great weekend,

Karen

~fruit of the labor

2011-09-19T15:03:00.004-05:00

Enjoying the fruit of my labor, (for a day).

The girls at the Hair Salon asked if I would
"trick up" something

for the front door of the salon.

This morning after digging through boxes of fall decorations

and adding burlap ribbon from a recent purchase,

this is the end result.

I will be delivering it tomorrow.

Hope they enjoy!

~Six years of...

2011-09-15T23:24:00.002-05:00

Our family is nearing a six year celebration.

The month of October will date our Mississippi address.

After, a brief nine months in North Carolina,

we embarked upon the second move in the same year.

Quite a feat for a family who had lived in the same home in Louisiana for eighteen years.

We were not the moving type. :-)

Shortly, after moving to the state

I never dreamed of living in,

I realized the straw must be fluffed and make the nest our home.

I don't recall how the Mississippi Magazine was discovered,

but while unpacking the boxes and hanging pictures

I subscribed to my first copy.

No better way to discover new places

in the state I now called home.

Every two months the old copy is stored in the closet

and the new one is placed on the coffee table.

Six years of magazines and I'm not the pack-rat type!

Just can't seem to to part with a one.

My mother-in-law's visits even include time

to play catch-up with the wonderful issues.

Hours can be spent exploring the pages

to find new towns to visit, decorating ideas,

and tasty recipes. The magazine contains

shopping guides for really unique shops

throughout our state.

The Mississippi Magazine

is the best travel guide

for planning a day out

or a weekend getaway.

Sharing with these on Friday:

No compensation received for sharing this wonderful magazine with you.

no need for thumb tacks or a bulletin board

2011-09-13T17:30:00.007-05:00

when you have Pinterest!!!!

You can read Pinterest's About page,

they describe it as a Virtual Pinboard.

~a place where you can collect & organize anything.
Recipes, quotes, clothes, home & gift ideas,
maybe something you see at "my place"

that sparks an interest and would like to keep and file it
for use at a later date.

How many times have you seen something or read something

and would like to have saved & organized it at the same time.

If you would like to start your own boards

and get your own "pin it" button for your toolbar

let me know. This is the most wonderful idea!

Pinterest is by invitation only.

A few months back I was introduced to Pinterest,just in time to start "pinning" ideas for fall decor.

Check out some of my great pins for fall decor.

all sources are linked below each picture

source

This one below is so simple, cute, and makes such a statement!

source

Loving the burlap runner.

source

Have you seen my touch of brown & white?

Here's the link to my earlier post.

source

Yes! that is a dryer vent.

source

I did this last year,

but used a different shaped container.

source

I am sharing my other boards with you.

Click on the following & you will see what else I've pinned.

Karen's Boards

So much fun, but it can be addictive.

I'm limiting myself on time spent on Pinterest.

Joining the others at the first Pinning party.

~Bisquick Queen

2011-09-12T15:02:00.000-05:00

...such a great product & can be used in so many tasty ways.

I'm afraid I could be re-named the Bisquick Queen

sharing a quick but delicious recipe with you today

Brunch Pancakes

1-1/2 cups Bisquick

1 tablespoon sugar

2 eggs

3/4 cup milk

1/4 cup syrup (I use Mrs. Butterworth's)

1-1/2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese

10-12 slices bacon, fried & crumbled

Heat oven to 425 deg. Grease 9X13 pan. Beat together by hand

Bisquick, sugar, milk, syrup and 1/2 cup cheese until smooth.

Pour in dish. Bake uncovered, until toothpick inserted in

center comes clean, for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bacon while hot.

Serve with syrup.

I know what you are thinking cheese & syrup?

Amazingly a great combination.

Have a great week & let me know if you give

this one a try.

~remembering

2011-09-11T15:25:00.000-05:00

do you remember where you were the day it happened?

I was sitting behind my desk at the church where I worked.

We received a phone call from the pastor's wife, telling

us of the great tragedy &

the other situations that were unfolding.

We knelt and immediately begin to pray.

~etched in my mind

Today, remembering those who lost loved ones

on 9.11.2001

and also for our country in this great time of need.

~Karen

~favorite smell of fall

2011-09-09T15:25:00.000-05:00

the cool crisp morning air

has brought the desire to smell

the flavors of fall

~~~~~~~

I'm slowly putting things in place
that remind us of fall,

so the joy of baking & welcoming

friends and family

will be made special in the weeks to come.

~~~~

AHHH, the smells this time of year

hickory wood burning

hot chocolate

hazelnut = my favorite
~~~
just to name a few
~~~

I placed Community Coffee Hazelnut Beans

in the large hurricane lantern & then added the

hazelnut candle.
Such a wonderful smell is filling our home,
makes for a Simple Pleasure.
(shhh - husband don't really love the smell like I do)

Our oldest is coming to visit,

so I'll not be at the computer too much.

Joining these next week.

Mosaic Monday

Hope you have a great week!
Thinking of those who are hurting
from the fires & floodwaters.
Karen

~summer glides away

2011-09-06T14:10:00.000-05:00

When summer gathers up her robes of glory,

And, like a dream, glides away.

~ Sarah Helen Whitman

Enjoying the cooler temperatures,

thoughts of warmth from the fire,

soup simmering on the stove

and the glorious colors of fall.

~~~

I'm having fun unpacking boxes

filled with pumpkins, fall leaves,

and all the beauties that give warmth

& color to our home this time of year.

Have a wonderful week.

Karen

Hiding

2011-09-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

I pray your Sunday is filled with rest.

Karen

"It's Oh SO Good"

2011-09-01T13:02:00.000-05:00

This quick recipe comes to you from days gone by.

The quaint little restaurant/gift shop was located

in Shreveport, LA and I am so glad

I purchased their small cookbook.

I have tried several recipes from the cookbook,

and this recipe is definitely a keeper.

So quick and with ingredients

that I usually have on hand.

Everything tastes better with cheese!

Onions are sauted in butter until shiny.

Chopped parsley from my herb garden "pot"

add color & flavor

Ready for the oven

Cooling in the pan

This would be so pretty in a round dish.

Be sure & read what the recipe says about slicing.

I served this with a grilled chicken salad.

Sorry, no pictures of the place setting,

the sweetheart was hungry and read to eat.

Just a tasty & great simple pleasure.

Linking to the following:

~Nothing Unnoticed

2011-08-27T23:00:00.000-05:00

If we could only grasp the magnitude of His love for us.

This verse reminds me of the preschool song,

God loves the little children....

all are precious in his sight.

Fixing my sight on Him,

Karen

Back to Reality ~ AFTER ~ Point Clear, Alabama

2011-08-23T14:02:00.002-05:00

No better way to begin,

than by sharing a quote from a bellman,

"we make it happen here at the Grand".

From the moment you enter the gates

and circle to the front doors of the Grand Marriott at Point Clear

you have entered true traditional southern hospitality.

There is no need to leave the resort until it's time

to return home.

This past week I was given the opportunity to

"tag along" with my husband on a company trip.

And, no the couple you see in the picture below

is not yours truly.

Point Clear, AL is located close to Fairhope

and its name depicts the location,

as it rests out on a point in Mobile Bay.

The grounds at The Grand are very beautiful and

well maintained.

I could not help but realize & appreciate the "work" that takes place all night as you sleep in the quiet.

The flowers were soaking up the sun and enjoying the humidity.

"can't say the heat & humidity was pleasurable"

A brick paved walkway surrounds the resort

almost to the entirety.

Great for bicycles and

midnight strolls with the sweetheart.

Hammocks for relaxing.

swings overlooking the bay

to enjoy during the cooler late evening hours

we had a meet & greet reception

at this outdoor reception area upon arrival

a spectacular view of the bay

dining at its finest

several restaurants with the most

delicious food & the presentation

of the meal amazing

indoors or outdoors

We attended a dinner at the very top

where the brown shutters are in the windows.

The view was breathtaking.

You may request to dine in

The Secret Garden for a special occasion.

~~~

Birthdays, Engagements, Anniversaries & Celebrations

~~~

We did not do this ~ but, our 25th Anniversary is up ahead ;-)

In the Secret Garden the table is set with beautiful

china, crystal and linens, a journal is brought to the

table for recording your celebration,

while dining you can read of others special moments

spent in The Secret Garden.

Each afternoon at 4:00 sharp

the cannon is fired to salute today's

military and those who have passed through the

historic hotel through the years.

The ceremony begins with a military band

marching around the property and ending at the Cannon.

The first hotel was built in 1830 at Point Clear.

In 1860 the hotel was used as a military hospital,

after the Battle of Vicksburg.

A Confederate Cemetery, adjacent to the hotel grounds

is a resting place for more than 300 soliders who died

at Point Clear.

Enjoy the remaining pictures.

The hotel was closed in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina

and reopened in November 2006

following a 50 million dollar renovation.

a family enjoying a game of golf

after brunch on Sunday

I saved the best for last :-)

Be sure to make plans to enjoy

the most relaxing part of the stay.

The Spa at the Grand

The entrance to the Spa.

Hotel rooms are also available above the Spa.

A variety of services are available at this magnificent place.

The Quiet Room is indescribable.

The BEST yet!

it does the body good to rest awhile

Hope you have enjoyed reading of my

memories and the beauty captured.

I am sharing the link to this

wonderful place.

Karen

Southern Living Magazine

is offering a Post-Labor Day Rate

for the

Grand Hotel Marriott Resort

at Point Clear, Alabama

in September 2011 magazine

you must have the booking code: L9Z

In no way or means compensated

by Grand Hotel, Point Clear, AL or Southern Living.

Linking to:

A Southern Daydreamer for

Excitement Filling the Air~

2011-08-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

Going to be gone for a few days~

planning, packing and preparing~

Just a little hint

of the destination spot...

Breathtaking sunsets, beautiful flowers

& relaxation.

See you in a couple of weeks!

Karen

~Pottery

2011-08-06T17:42:00.000-05:00

when we acknowledge our Father,

the Creator of the Universe

and cry out Oh Lord,

we become as clay

in His hands

moldable and shapeable.

We humble ourselves,

realizing His skills as The Potter

are shaping us into beautiful vessels

to be used by Him.

May your weekend thoughts

be turned towards Our Creator & Potter.

Giving Him praise!

Karen

Linking to: Spiritual Sundays

Scripture & Snapshot

{everything's peachy}

2011-08-05T09:24:00.000-05:00

Our neighbor shared some peaches with us.

Peeled & Cut up Peaches

Water & Sugar Added

Simmered until tender

This recipe is a basic cobbler recipe,

but with a topping to add it over the top!

butter in pan

(love this old enamel pan - perfect for shelling peas in)

Ingredients gathered

Mixed by hand and placed into the pan.

But, wait!

Do you see the sugary shiny ingredient on top?

Sugar and vanilla blended with a fork and placed on top,

makes for a crispy sweet topping.

Warm - straight from the oven.

How do you like yours?

Warm

with Ice Cream

without Ice Crean

Cold

???

I prefer mine the next day,

after it has chilled in the refrigerator.

The next time you make a peach cobbler,

you try adding the sugar & vanilla on top.

See what you think!

Linking to:

Inspiration Friday

Foodie Friday

Today is August 4, 2011

2011-08-04T12:51:00.000-05:00

I'm not one when it comes to

journaling, blogging, posting, sharing ...

to get silly,

too sentimental,

or simply too personal.

But, I want to share this day with you.

It started out the same as usual.

BUT,

I hear no sounds coming from this

BECAUSE

this one

HEADED OUT TO SCHOOL!

I had to share this day,

because it is a special one!

He is in HIGH SCHOOL.

Did I forget to say

~9th Grader~

(where did the time go?)

SO NOW

it is quiet,

mom can have her

peanut butter & banana sandwich for lunch

no cooking for the hungry boy

until dinner - (supper-time)

AND IT'S

I was in a hurry snapping the pictures against his will,

(not the best pics in the world)

but you can see his personality shining through in this

one - if you look closely!

Just hope he gets "alittle" more serious at school!

He is my Simple Pleasure today.

Full of FUN all the time!

(and his mom's getting her Senior Discount this year)

Can't you just see me asking for this when he and I go

out to eat. Bet, I'll have to slip around to request one!

HE will crawl under the table.

Hope you day is filled with fun & laughter.

Linking to:

~check out these two

2011-08-03T13:40:00.001-05:00

I have met the most wonderful people through the "world of blogging".

Not only wonderful and inspirational,

but talented ones too.

Just yesterday, I visited Mountain Mama's Blog.

She introduced me to

Pam @ Alf Photography & Digital Art.

I know there are some who are not interested in photography, but you've got to see what this girl can do with a picture.

Digital Photography

Here is a sneak-peak!

The best part!

Mountain Mama is having a Give-Away.

She will be selecting one person.

(hopefully ME)

The person who is chosen

will choose one of their own personal pictures

(I've already got one picked out)

and Pam over at Alf Photography

will be creating a 11X14 portrait from the picture

the winner submits.

Drop by and visit both of these ladies.

You just may want to enter.

Mountain Mama has an amazing story.

"she has been able to help"

in the upcoming Courageous Movie

that you see advertised in the upper right corner

of my blog.

Pam also has a webstore

graydogdesign.com

Always amazing to see

what others can do with

their talents.

HE chose me~

2011-07-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

So much excitement and promise in this verse.

To think that Jesus Christ would seek

and chose, a sinner such as I.

But, to promise to give what I ask

for in my Father's name, is truly amazing.

The middle part, my part

my responsibility, a three-fold

in requirement...

bear fruit

ask

Wishing you a wonderful weekend

of discovering HIS beauty & grace

and in return worshipping God,

the Giver and Our Creator.

Mighty is our God

2011-07-23T13:52:00.007-05:00

Recently while visiting our son,

he and I drove down to the river one evening,

and of course I haven't learned to carry

my camera everywhere I go.

He reminded me of my phone camera.

The sunset gave the side of the bridge the warmest glow.

I seemed small from where my feet stood.

A few days after arriving back home,

I transferred the picture from the phone to the computer.

As I opened the picture and saw how the

bridge was the focal point of the evening sun,

I was reminded of God's strength.

What comfort and peace we can have resting

in His might. He is working all to our good.

Heartaches, Hardships, and Trials

require our dependence upon Him to show HIS strength.

I have faced some large, overwhelming circumstances

in my lifetime, not as great as some may have faced, but have

looked back and questioned how did I make it through?

It was my Lord and Saviour who showed His strength.

Who provided the peace in the midst of it all.

His word is so real for today.

2 Corinthians 12:9 speaks of HIS strength and power.

I've shared the following passage from The Message translation.

But HE said to me,

My grace

(my favor and loving-kindness and mercy)

is enough for you

[sufficient against any danger

and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]:

for My strength and power are made perfect

(fulfilled and completed)

and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness.

Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weakness

and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ

(the Messiah) may rest

(yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!

Wishing you a weekend filled

with renewed strength.

Karen

Linking to the following: Spiritual Sundays, Scripture & Snapshot

late for one, on time for the other....

2011-07-21T23:41:00.008-05:00

Almost too late for the Cloche Party!

But, I've arrived!

And I'm going to another party

over At the Picket Fence.

I promised Marty over at A Stroll thru life

I would come.

This unique wire cloche was found at Tuesday Morning.

The nest with the little blue eggs was purchased

at a friend's shop Stephanie's Shenanigans in Louisville, MS.

I've played around with this cloche.

Just could not find the right item to place under

the wire. I have tried a candle and have

even tried the rabbits. But, I believe

the nest looks the best.

It is sitting on top of the buffet under the gazebo.

While taking the photos for the cloche party,

I snapped a few of my bloomers.

I do not know what this little treasure is called

but, definitely kin to moss ross.

I love the fact two bright colors in one bloom.

The geraniums have shown out this year.

But, I wanted you to see my old church house too.

I turned around to reach for the tripod

and this little fellow had found a resting spot.

Happy Friday

Have a wonderful weekend!

Karen

Linking to the following:

Sweetness...

2011-07-19T17:23:00.000-05:00

...the aroma was heavenly...

...juicy...

...no need for this...

I'm sure some prefer

do you eat yours with salt?

...memories from long ago...

Daddy would hold & tilt

and

I would drink the juice to my ~~heart's~~ tummy's content.

This is my nephew's son.

My dad would have enjoyed him so much!

Simple Pleasures

Sweet Juicy Watermelon

Sweet Precious Memories

Sweet Baby "Elbow Sugar"

I'll be joining the others on Thursday

for Simple Pleasures.

Rest~

2011-07-17T11:28:00.000-05:00

Sharing with the others at

Katie's.

I pray you are enjoying Sunday,the day created for Rest.

Karen

Captured beauty & blessings

2011-07-07T10:58:00.001-05:00

Corn Tassel Sunset

Memory Garden Beauty

Dill Blooms in the Sprinkler

Blue Bad Boy

Petal Memories

Music to my Ears

Drops of Kindness

Freedom Fun

Evening Beauty

Waiting the taste of Summer

I am thankful for eyesight & hearing

to behold

all the wonderful things

Our Creator

has given me to see & hear this past week.

Perspective Changer

Take time to slow & enjoy

the Simple Pleasures that surround.

Have a wonderful rest of the week & weekend.

Karen

I'll not be sharing a post next week because of a much needed family visit.

FaSt FoUrTh FaRe

2011-07-04T21:24:00.000-05:00

We were "SO BLESSED" this afternoon!

An afternoon thunderstorm blew in bringing

temps down from 96 to 78.

Quickly, while the hubby was grilling

I threw the tablesetting together under the gazebo on the deck.

(these little metal flags were purchased at Dollar General)

I had some Americana items grouped together

in the kitchen for the month of July.

I brought them along with the lamp to the table

and added a denim table cloth and red check napkins.

The antique corn dishes are one of my favorite items

in my kitchen cupboards!

Just a little closer view of my tricked up napkin ring. :-)

NOW, for the menu:

fresh corn from the garden

shish-ka-bobs

grilled pineapple

iced sweet tea

The pineapple was so juicy!

The table was cleared and we played a few rounds of Skip-Bo.

What a fun and relaxing day!

Most of the time I don't take the time

to add the special "little" touches,

but I'm learning that each time we share a meal

it should be

acknowledged as "special"!

I'm joining the others this week for some really great parties.

You are welcome to visit.

Just click on the links below and see what the other's

are bringing to the parties!

We Hold These....

2011-07-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

So appropriate for this month.

In my ramblings with company,

we spent the day in West Point, MS.

This store front window to the Hardware Store

was adorned with the second sentence of

The United States Declaration of Independence

known as The Preamble.

Remember memorizing this in school?

The students of a local school had decorated

the store fronts in this small town.

I did not bring my camera with me,

this was taken with my phone.

I would have loved to have taken some

more pictures of the other windows.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-06-25T21:33:00.000-05:00

My tendency is wanting the external picture

"picture perfect".

The flesh desires for others to draw great conclusions. When on the inside choas reigns.

Oh, if I could only

have the vision of my Saviour;

~~~

for the LORD seeth not as man seeth;

for man looketh on the outward appearance,

but the LORD looketh on the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7

~~~

Sin always dims the vision of HIM.

~~~

Lord, create in me a clean heart

wash the dirt and sin away,

so I can see you at work more clearly

in my life.

~~~

Resting in HIM,

Karen

Places of my Heart

~touches of sweetness

~INTO

~Warming the Heart

Roots Exposed ~

fun in the midst of trials

St. Mary's Cathedral ~ Natchez, MS

City on a Hill ~

when all is quiet~

wishing.....

~the greatest Gift of all

Christmas

~Once in a lifetime...

12 days + 25 years

Wishing you....

mundane=monumental

~food, fun & football

~november's beginnings

~arrival of Autumn

~Nestled together

~thursday & friday nights

~fall in the foyer

weekends are for growing friends...

~new gardner in Heaven

~divine appointment

autumn - season of harvest

~fruit of the labor

~Six years of...

no need for thumb tacks or a bulletin board

~Bisquick Queen

~remembering

~favorite smell of fall

~summer glides away

Hiding

"It's Oh SO Good"

~Nothing Unnoticed

Back to Reality ~ AFTER ~ Point Clear, Alabama

Excitement Filling the Air~

~Pottery

{everything's peachy}

Today is August 4, 2011

~check out these two

HE chose me~

Mighty is our God

late for one, on time for the other....

Sweetness...

Rest~

Captured beauty & blessings

~~FaSt FoUrTh FaRe~~

We Hold These....

FaSt FoUrTh FaRe