bunny cottage

Today, give a stranger...

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one of your smiles.

It may be the only sunshine he sees all day.

Sending a little smile your way and hoping your day will be a good one!

For you, my friends, I wish...

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comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds,

laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your hearts, hugs when spirits sag,

beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe,

confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth,

and love to guide your way!

Do you remember. . .

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selling coke bottles for 2 cents each so you could buy penny candy?

wearing a skate key tied around your neck so you would always be ready for your roller skates?

cat's cradle and other string games?

Ma and Pa Kettle, The Three Stooges and Spanky and Our Gang at the movies?

playing paper dolls for hours on end. . .Yes, I am feeling a little nostalgic today, dear friends. Hope you have many happy memories from your "growing up days". God bless each and every one of you!

There are five things in life you cannot recover...

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A stone...after it is thrown.

A word. . .after it is said.

An occasion. . .after it is missed.

The time. . .after it is gone.

A person. . .after they die.

Life is short. Break the rules. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably. And never regret anything that made you smile! Enjoy life!

Love me tender. . .

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While all the girls my age in the 1960's were going crazy over the Beatles, I was secretly in love with this guy!

Love me tender,

Love me true,

All my dreams fulfilled.

For my darling I love you,

And I always will.

I once read. . .

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God gives us memories so that. . .

we can have roses in winter. . .

and so today, I am thinking back on my spring garden. . .

and enjoying my roses once again!

Hope you are having some good memories today, dear friends! God bless each and everyone of you!

Let gratitude. . .

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be the pillow. . .

upon which you kneel. . .

to say your nightly prayer. . .~Maya Angelou

I ask God to remind me daily to have a thankful and generous heart. There are so many people hurting, suffering during these tough economic times. People wondering if they will keep their jobs or will they find a job or will there be food on their table and a roof over their head. Lord, let me never complain and help me see those who are in need of Your Touch each and every day.

Do not be afraid...

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to show your affection...

be warm and tender, thoughtful and affectionate...

love is more than money...

and a kind word will give you more pleasure than a present...

Love and warmest wishes to all of you, my dear and kind friends...Enjoy your upcoming weekend!

A little prayer for you today. . .

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May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow...

May the soft winds freshen your spirit...

May the sunshine brighten your heart...

May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you...

And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love!

It is the small things that bring the greatest pleasure in this beautiful world...

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a hot cup of coffee in a favorite china cup~

the soft flutter of a hummingbird's wings in my garden~

a grandchild's smile~

"Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your prayers."~Maya Angelou

Being thankful today for all the "small" things that bring so much happiness to our lives~God bless you today and always!

It is so hot. . .

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even the little birds are not finding a respite. . .

As I water my flowers and grass each day,

the little birds flock around my house and sprinkler looking for some cool refreshment.

Even though I have a bird bath and a pond, they do not seem to be enough in this oppressive heat.

Praying for some cooling showers here in Texas. . .Hope this note finds you, my friends, able to stay cool as you enjoy your summer days.

"Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark."~Tagore

A hint of heaven~

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Some people,

like angels,

leave a hint of heaven

wherever they go!

I am feeling thankful today for all of the angels God has placed in my path over these past 60 years of my life!!

God hears. . .

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even when it is just a whisper of the heart. . .

Have you ever felt like your prayers weren't getting any higher than the ceiling? That you really didn't even know what to pray for.

I know I sure have. . .and then I remember that He knows the longing of my heart even before I ask. . .He also knows the best answer. . .Thank you, God, for hearing and answering in the way You know is best. . .God bless you, dear friends, as we trust in Him!

Bunny love. . .

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Have you ever noticed. . .

how bunnies. . .

have a way of. . .

multiplying?

Of course, one must have. . .

bunnies. . .

at Bunny Cottage. . .

Sweet and kind friends, I am sending you loads of bunny love and wishing a beautiful week ahead for you and your family!!!

As I work among my flowers. . .

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I find myself talking to them. . .

reasoning and remonstrating with them. . .

and adoring them as if they were human beings. . .Much laughter I provoke among my friends by so doing,

but that is of no consequence. We are on such good terms, my flowers and I.~Celia Thaxter

I have always said you have to really love to garden to garden in Texas with our 100 degrees plus temperatures and virtually no rain. Nevertheless, I continue to water faithfully and enjoy my garden each day. I feel so close to God in my garden.

For my daddy. . .

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He was a man's man. He loved fishing. He loved sports. And most of all, he loved his family. He was very proud of being able to support us. I remember one time mother suggested that she might get a job to help out financially. My daddy said absolutely not, that he could take care of his family. He was the finest man I have ever known or ever hope to know. He was daddy to my sister, Myra, and I, "Pop" to his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, and Dibb to his friends. He took care of my mother night and day for ten years when she was ill with Parkinson's Disease. That is just the kind of man he is. I love you, daddy!

I have two sons with families of their own. They are both wonderful daddies carrying on in the tradition of Pop. God bless our daddies everywhere and Happy Father's Day to them!!

Tender mercies. . .

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this is what God gives to us each day. . .

He longs for us to show those same tender mercies to one another.

Who's to say a smile from a stranger or a gentle outstretched hand is not the act of an angel in disguise?

Count yourself. . .

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blessed every day, and you will find yourself. . .

living in a world of blessings!

Counting myself blessed today because I know each of you, dear friends.

Just a touch. . .

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She had an issue of blood for twelve years. . .She had visited all the doctors, tried all the cures, spent all her money but to no avail. And then she heard. . .

He was coming to her village, and she knew what she must do. The throngs of people crowded Him on every side, and she thought. . .

If I can just reach out and touch the hem of his garment, I can be made whole. . .and so she did, and the moment she touched Him, she was restored.

Dear Lord, give me this kind of faith, knowing all it takes is one small touch on my part. . .You are there waiting. Wishing faith, love and hope to each of you, my friends.

You can dance anywhere. . .

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even if only in your heart!

Life is quite an adventure with its many ups and downs.

I hope I remember to enjoy every moment of it . . . After all, it is quite a dance!

The little dancer is my granddaughter, Grace, at her spring dance recital. I am so blessed to have seven beautiful grandchildren to make my life a dance! Wishing for you, my friends, a beautiful day and a beautiful dance!

When life gets too hard to stand. . .

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kneel.

People have lost their jobs, economic times are tough, floods have destroyed homes and people's hopes and dreams, a mother is sitting by the bedside of an ill child, a child is being bullied at school. . .

We have all been there. . .hopefully, we can be there for someone else. . .I have found that prayer is very powerful. . .Praying for each of you dear friends as we all face life's challenges. . .God bless each one of you.

I've learned that. . .

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people will forget what you said. . .

people will forget what you did. . .

but people will never forget. . .

how you made them feel.~Maya Angelou

I try to remember these words every day. I know we have all benefited from people who have loved us, shown kindness to us, and made us feel very special and appreciated. It is my heart's desire to make others feel this way as much as I possibly can. I will be the first to admit I don't always succeed, but it is not because I don't want to. Dear friends, please have a day full of happiness and contentment!

A true man. . .

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does not need to romance a different girl every night,

A true man. . .

romances the same girl for the rest of her life. . .This post is dedicated to all who love everywhere. . .A romantic heart is a blessing indeed!

My angel in heaven. . .

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my mother, Ressie Roween Russell Smith. . . She was and is my greatest encourager. . .not a day goes by that I don't think of her and the influence she had on my life. . .I have always said if I could just be half as good a mother as she was, I would be a tremendous success! I love you momma!!!

The roses above are from my cottage garden, picked with love and "given" to each of you as we celebrate Mother's Day this weekend. Thank you, God, for our mothers and the wonderful influence they have in this world. God bless each of you!!!

Grandma's Apron. . .

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worn to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few . . .

served as a pot holder for removing hot pans from the oven. . .

was wonderful for drying children's tears. . .

was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven . . .

wiped many a perspiring brow bent over the hot wood stove . . .

carried all sorts of vegetables from the garden and apples fallen from the old gnarled apple

tree. . .

When dinner was ready, grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men knew it was time to come in from the fields for dinner . . .

Yes, that old time apron served many purposes. . .

but mostly for me, it was a symbol of love and devotion. . .May you have a blessed and happy day, dear friends, as we reflect upon our past and the cherished traditions we all hold so dear!!

With God. . .

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all things. . .

are possible. . .

Dear Lord, help me to have the faith to realize that with You all things are possible. Amen

May we each realize the possibilities that are in store for each of us when we trust in Him.

*the beautiful tags and journal were created for me by Maria of "Under the Night Moon" on etsy. She is certainly seeing the possibilites in her life as she uses her wonderful talents to create beauty.

Texas. . .

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Where the tea is sweet, and accents are sweeter. . .

Summer starts in April, front porches are wide and words are long. . .

Macaroni and cheese is a vegetable, BBQ is the state food, ya'll is a proper noun. . .

Chicken is fried, biscuits come with gravy, everyone is "honey". . .

Someone is always getting their heart blessed, and we are all "fixin" to do something. . .

A big Texas "howdy" to all my friends today. . .Have a blessed Easter, too!

Blue skies. . .

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Blue skies. . .

Smiling at me. . .

Nothing but blue skies. . .

do I see. . .

Wishing blue skies and happy days to you. . . May you have the best of days, dear friends!!

Bunny Cottage Spring Garden. . .April 2011

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"He who is born. . .

with a silver spoon in his mouth. . .

is generally considered a fortunate person. . .

but his good fortune is small. . .

compared to that of the happy mortal. . .

who enters this world. . .

with a passion for flowers in his soul."~Celia Thaxter

Happy spring and happy gardening, dear friends. . .Hope this finds everyone enjoying life and the many blessings of each and every day.

Grace for this day. . .

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Oh, God, give me grace for this day.

Not for a lifetime, nor for next week, nor for tomorrow,

Just for this day.

Direct my thoughts and bless them. Direct my work and bless it. . .

So that for this one day, just this one day,

I know the gift of grace that comes from your presence.

Wishing you the gift of His grace today and always!

The Wonders of Nature. . .

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These beautiful roses greet me each morning as I look out my window. I love to sip a cup of HOT coffee (nothing lukewarm for this girl), eat my toast and enjoy the wonders of nature.

Mr. and Mrs. Cardinal, Mr. and Mrs. Bluejay always join me for breakfast, too. Sometimes it looks as though they are breaking open their sunflower seeds and feeding each other. I think that is sweet.

I saw my first hummingbird yesterday. My heart always skips a beat when I see my first one of the spring. You see, I have been waiting for him all winter.

I am feeling very grateful this morning for the wonders of nature and the beauty of God's handiwork. . .

"Gratitude is the memory of the heart."~French Proverb

I am also feeling grateful for each of you. . .The lovely tag and romantic journal were created by the very talented Maria of "Under the Night Moon" from etsy. Don't you love her soft touch with her creations? Have the best of days, dear friends!

A word of encouragement. . .

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Ever felt sad, lonesome, discouraged, just a little blue?

I have, too.

And it is just at that very moment when God steps in and says, "I am here for you. I have been here all along. I love you!"

Thank you, God, for your tender mercies shown to me each and every day of my life.

Dear friends, just a word of encouragement for you this day. . . May you feel His Presence today and every day! He sends us a love letter each day!!

My Cottage Garden. . . Spring 2010

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Ever since I could remember anything,

flowers have been like dear friends to me,

comforters, inspirers,

powers to lift up and cheer.~ Celia Thaxter

Sending some flower bouquets to you, dear friends,

with hopes that they will comfort and cheer!!

Cowboy Days

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Happy trails to you, until we meet again. . .

Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then. . .

Who cares about the clouds when we're together? Just sing a song and bring the sunny

weather. . .

Happy trails to you, 'til we meet again. . .

My grandson, Luke, celebrated "Cowboy Days" at his school today. A great time was had by all. I dedicate my post today to Dale and Roy, the ultimate cowgirl and cowboy. May all of your trails be happy ones! Enjoy your day all of you cowboys and cowgirls. . .

To you, my friends. . .

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May you be blessed with. . .

warmth in your home. . .

love in your heart. . .

peace in your soul. . .

and joy in each day. . .Wishing a blessed and happy day for you, dear friends. . . Are you looking forward to spring? I am having daffodils, day lilies and iris coming up!! I can hardly wait until my hummingbirds return. . .It won't be long now.

Some enchanted evening. . .

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Some enchanted evening. . . You may see a stranger. . . You may see a stranger across a crowded room. . .

And somehow you know. . . You know even then. . .

That somewhere you'll see him. . . Again and again. . .

Is one born a romantic? Somehow, I think so, yes. . . I can remember as a young girl seeing the movie, "South Pacific", on the big screen and being absolutely in love with this wonderful love story, actually love stories. . . And as long as I can remember, I have never met a love story that I didn't cherish with all my heart. The lovely and romantic "smile" tag and precious "faithful words" journal were created by a very talented lady found at "Under the Night Moon" on Etsy.

Wishing "smiles" and "faithful words" for you my dear, kind and faithful friends . . .

Please enjoy your weekend. May it be full of sunshine. . . and love.

A lady of faith. . .Ms. Lilian

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She was one of those ladies who influnced me greatly all through my childhood, teenage years, and young adulthood. She was a true Southern beauty with a peaches and cream complexion and silvery white hair. I never heard her say an unkind word to anyone. Her voice and words reflected her kind, kind heart. She helped me sing my very first solo in church. I was probably about four or five years old, and I sang for our church's Christmas program. I can't recall the song entirely, but it was about the star that shone on the night of Jesus' birth. I can remember feeling a little frightened until I looked down and saw Ms. Lilian smiling at me reassuringly, telling me I could do this, not to be afraid. Later, when I was a teenager, Ms. Lilian spent many a Saturday afternoon at her home helping my friend, Pam, and me find the perfect song to sing as a duet at church the next day. We would look through her countless song books until we found just the right one. Then she would untiringly play the song for us until we knew our parts perfectly and were ready to sing our duet. I am sure she could have found quite a few more exciting things to do with her Saturday afternoons, but she seemed to take great pleasure in helping two teenage girls prepare not only for singing but for life itself. Ms. Lilian has gone on to be with God, but today I say, "thank you" Ms. Lilian for your kindness and the care you showed to me my entire life. You always showed me the way and because of you, I am the person I am today. Dear friends, I know we all have had special angels in our lives who have helped and strengthened us along life's way. Perhaps in some small way, we can be that special angel in someone else's life. That is my prayer for today. God bless you and keep you!!

To love is to receive a glimpse of heaven. . .

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If you live to be a hundred,

I want to live to be a hundred minus one day. . .

so I never have to live without you!~Winnie the Pooh

Valentine's Day, a very favorite holiday of mine. . . I guess it is the romantic in me. . .

Wishing each of you a very, very Happy Valentine's Day!

Our Miracle. . .

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Hello, dear friends, just a little note to let you know that Olivia Kathleen arrived last Saturday, January 29, weighing 7 pounds 2 ounces and 21 inches long. My daughter-in-law, Corina, had to have an emergency c-section. Things were pretty frightening for a little while, but thankfully, momma and baby are both doing great now. I am on my way tomorrow to Roswell to see them all. I am continually thanking God for his tender mercies and for this wonderful miracle of new life. I am now proud grandmomma to 7 beautiful grandchildren. I love each one of you and wish a happy weekend to you! p.s. That is big sister, Henna, holding Olivia. Olivia has three older sisters to love on her and take care of her!!

Love is. . .

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Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.

As I was reading this scripture this morning, it really spoke to my heart. I hope it will speak to yours as well. Every time I read this scripture, I am reminded how I need to read it more often as it truly does tell us so clearly what love is all about.

Enjoy your week ahead, dear friends. The holiday where we celebrate love for others will soon be here. It is one of my very favorites. Love and blessings to you!

Friendship. . .

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Friendship makes the flowers bloom,

Puts sunshine in the spring,

And in a way that's all its own,

Adds joy to everything!

May you have a wonderful weekend, dear friends. . .I have been watching the weatherman, and it looks like it is pretty cold all over, so stay warm and enjoy some hot chocolate or hot tea. . . Love and blessings to you!

Forgiveness. . .

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"To forgive. . .

is to set someone free,

and then find out. . .

it's you."~Rob Bell

Hello, dear friends, I am wishing you a blessed New Year full of peace and joy!! God bless you, each and every one.

Okay, I am ready for spring now...

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Once the holidays are passed, I am ready for spring!! Yes, yes, I know I am rushing things, but you know I am a pink rosy kind of girl and so, this morning I started taking pictures of the things around my home that I love the most. I hope you don't mind me rushing the seasons as it warms my heart to think about spring and my upcoming garden. The sweet, sweet little bird cloche with the cupcake inside was a present from my children, Jeremy and Lindy. It surely reminds me of spring. The rose covered plate was a present I bought for myself. Loved it the minute I saw it. Dear friends, I hope you had the best of Christmases with your family and friends. Wishing you a new year full of peace and love and all of those things you love the most!!

Mary wrapped the greatest present. . .

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Merry Christmas to each of you, my dear friends. . .Love and blessings always!

"True Grit!"

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I have always loved those two words. I am not sure why. Maybe it is because I can imagine my two pioneer Texas great grandmothers saying them. For sure, they must have had some of that "true grit" to settle in this wild land of Texas!!! As I was watching my neighbors put up their Christmas lights the other day, those two words came to my mind once again. It was mother and son doing the decorating this year. Daddy is far away in Afghanistan serving in our military. He won't be home this year to see the tree and beautiful lights. I am sure momma took plenty of pictures of the Christmas decorations to send to daddy. You see, it is their way of saying: "We are here. We are carrying on while you are away. We are being strong and brave as we anxiously wait for you to come home to us." I see this example of "true grit" time and again here in our military community of Fort Hood, Texas.

"True grit" was definitely in force some two thousand years ago when a young couple made their way to Bethlehem to pay their taxes. They were from a small village making their way to the big city. She was very young and very pregnant. Her husband tried with all his might to find a safe, comfortable place for them to rest that night. Unfortunately, all that was available was a stable. And so amongst the animals in a not so warm and comfortable stable, the Savior was born. I know that the young couple must have rejoiced when their son arrived safely and in good health. Their son, of course, was the One to ultimately show his true grit as he ministered to others here on this earth and give his life for many. Today, I thank God for his unspeakable gift!!

Dear friends, I hope you are enjoying this Christmas season. I am thankful for each one of you and for the difference you make for good in others lives. Have a blessed Sunday and terrific Christmas week.

A Christmas to remember. . .

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I was an older teenager when I happened to meet a family who seemingly had nothing for Christmas. I visited their humble home and noticed no tree, no presents, no sign of Christmas at all. I found out that this family had no money for presents or a tree, and so when I left their home, I told my momma about their inability to purchase a tree or presents. She suggested that I call the Sunday School classes at our church to see if they might want to help out. And so, I began to call each teacher. Before I knew it, I had a tree complete with decorations, clothing, shoes, toys for the children. Everything that was needed to make for a merry Christmas time for these folks. My car was loaded down as I drove up to their home. I will never forget the expression on their faces as I was able to help make their holiday a little brighter. But you see, they weren't the ones being blessed the most, I was. As the years have gone by, I realize more than ever what it means when I hear: "It is more blessed to give than receive." I am counting my blessings this time of the year for I have been so richly blessed. I am wishing a blessed holiday season for each of you, my friends. Sometimes the greatest gifts we can give someone is a hug, a smile, a greeting. Life is short. . . love unconditionally, laugh at every opportunity, and forgive quickly.

A few of my favorite things. . .

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Stacks of dainty tea cups and a spring basket filled with eggs and flowers...

Decorating my home with tea pots and creamers and sugars and lacy doilies...

A good cup of hot coffee and something gooey to go with it like a hot cinnamon roll...

Roses and handpainted china...

My white hutch filled with whimsical notions...

And, of course, bunnies...

Vintage images...this one is by my favorite illustrator, Eloise Wilkin...

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, dear friends, celebrated with family and friends.

"If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily."~Gerald Good

I am participating in "Tea Cups on Tuesday" this week. I am posting a little early, but if you will go over and visit these lovely ladies on Monday evening or Tuesday morning, you will see all of our tea participants: Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ and Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/

Have a terrific week!

Counting my blessings, one by one, at Bunny Cottage...

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My handsome son, Jeremy, a gifted musician, and sweet Grace, my dancer extraordinaire...

my sweet, Jake, with a heart full of love and concern for others. . .

my sweet, Luke, in his kindergarten picture. . . he is my "superhero" guy who loves Iron Man, Superman, Spiderman and anything to do with all of these superheroes. . .

Beautiful Grace again and my lovely daughter-in-law, Lindy, who does an excellent job of teaching our young people in school. . .

My beautiful Ally, who loves to "perform" and is my little actress who is never without friends close by. . .

My fun-loving Maggie Zane, named after me. She loves to laugh and loves life like me, too.

My darling, Henna Rose, who melts my heart when she says, "I love you, Gee!"

My handsome son, Aaron, who recently received his law degree and is a terrific lawyer and my lovely daughter-in-law, Corinna, who is a wonderful hair stylist.

And I could not forget, Baby Olivia, our sweetheart who is on the way and will make her debut in February. . .

My beloved sister and best friend, Myra, and my darling niece, Robin. They are my "partners in crime" and we can spend many hours a day just laughing and having a good time!!!

And last but certainly not least, I am counting each of you my friends, who make my life so much richer with your creativity and encouragement and love for life, yes, each of you are a blessing to me... I can hear my momma singing that old hymn, "Count Your Many Blessings" as she lovingly worked around our home taking care of us. I dedicate this post to her and my wonderful daddy. They truly taught me the meaning of a "thankful heart". I will forever be thankful for them. Have a blessed Thanksgiving!!

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was 'thank you', that would suffice."~Meister Eckhart

A tiny rosebud. . .

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It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
God opens this flower so easily,
But in my hands they die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God's design,
Then how can I have the wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?

So I'll trust in God for leading
Each moment of my day.
I will look to God for guidance
In each step of the way.

The path that lies before me,
Only my Lord knows.
I'll trust God to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.

Sending much love and blessings to you, dear friends. Enjoy your weekend!!

Roses are red, my love. . .

2010-11-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

Violets are blue. . .

Sugar is sweet, my love,

but not as sweet as you. . .

If you grew up in the 50's and 60's like I did, I am sure you remember the words of this song

sung by Bobby Vinton. Isn't it amazing how a song can take us back in time to the days of our youth?

Thank you, dear friends, for stopping by today for a visit. I am sharing some of my favorite tea things including a favorite violet covered teapot, tray, creamer and sugar, given to me by my sweet sister, Myra, as a Christmas present several years ago. Next to it is a picture of my grandparents on their wedding day. I never met them personally. They went to heaven before I had the opportunity to know them. However, I do know them in my heart of hearts and look forward to seeing them again one day. I feel their presence and the presence of all of my loved ones each and every day. I am participating in the Tuesday Tea Parties so please stop by and see all of the lovely tea things being shared. These sweet ladies are our hostesses each week: Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ and Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/ Happy first day of November to you and God bless you all!

Best friends. . .

2010-10-16T11:01:00.001-07:00

During my growing up days, my best friend, Pam, and I loved to go shopping on a Saturday afternoon in our small town of Carlsbad, New Mexico. Our first stop was always Woolworths five and ten cent store. Upon our arrival, we headed directly to the jewelry counter. Pam always bought a beautiful "diamond" ring and I a "pearl" ring. These, of course, were our engagement rings (I am pretty sure our boyfriends at elementary school did not know they were "engaged"!) After our ring purchase, we would then peruse the Barbie dolls and all of their lovely adornments. Sometimes, if we had enough money, we would buy paperdolls. These paperdolls gave us endless hours of enjoyment. Last stop for the afternoon was the Corner Drug Store. This was an old-fashioned drug store with a soda fountain. We always ordered a hamburger with chips and a Coke. What a wonderful time we had and how grown up we felt on those magical Saturday afternoons. Even though Pam and I live many miles apart now, I feel like we could start our conversation right where the last one ended. She was and still is a true friend, a friend of the heart and soul. I hope you have enjoyed many friendships throughout your lifetime, dear friends. I count each and everyone as a kind friend who I value very much. Enjoy your lovely autumn weekend as you think on times past! Love and blessings always.

Rosy thoughts for a rosy tea party. . .

2010-10-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

Childhood is the most beautiful of all life's seasons. . .

One may live without bread, not without roses. . .

You can complain because roses have thorns, or. . .

you can rejoice because thorns have roses! I choose to rejoice!!

God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December. . .

I'd rather have roses on my table. . .

than diamonds on my neck.

This is the lovely Peggy Martin rose growing in my backyard garden. This beautiful rose is a true survivor having withstood hurricane Katrina. . .We, too, can withstand the storms of life when we have our faith rooted deeply in Him.

Dear friends, thank you so much for coming by for a visit today. I am enjoying my garden during this cooler weather along with my favorite pieces of rose covered china. I hope this note finds you doing well, dear ones. I am participating in "Tea Time" on Tuesdays. Please visit our very kind hostesses and all those who are participating by going here: Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ and Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com

Autumn Tea Party, and I was "Daisy Mae"!!!

2010-10-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear friends, we are having some gloriously cool weather here in Central Texas...

So, I thought it would be fun to have an autumn tea to welcome in the season...Mr. Scarecrow definitely wants to be invited!!

I have one of my very favorite tea cups for you to share some autumn tea from...

My little bunny is out in Farmer McGregor's fall garden so he had to be invited, too...

Along with this sweet and magical and very friendly little witch...

I have one of my comfy chairs waiting for your visit, along with a plate of ghosty cookies...

I know you are thinking what does Daisy Mae have to do with our celebration? Well, she is part of my childhood memories. You see, one year my momma helped me dress as Daisy Mae for Halloween. Yes, I had the cut off jean shorts (not nearly as short as Daisy Mae's, my momma would not have allowed that!!!) and a cute peasant shirt that my mother had sewn for me. It had elastic in the neck so I could wear it off my shoulders like Daisy. I must say, I did not "fill out" my costume nearly as well as Daisy fills hers out, but as a ten or eleven year old girl, I did think I looked pretty cute!! Now there was a rule among girls my age that you could trick or treat until you were in sixth grade. After that, it was considered a little too babyish to trick or treat in junior high. Well, if you know me, you know how I love autumn and Halloween and all of the festivities. When I was in sixth grade, I made the most out of that Halloween, sadly knowing it would be my last time to go out trick or treating. Yes, I was a sad girl the next autumn in 7th grade when I didn't dress up and go out to get treats. However, now that I have grandchildren, it is perfectly normal for grandma to go out with her grandchildren and trick or treat to her heart's desire. Who says there aren't advantages to getting older?

I am participating in this week's tea parties. Please visit these ladies, our faithful hostesses, and all of those who are participating this week: Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ and Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/ I am posting a little early so visit these ladies late Monday evening or early Tuesday morning to see their tea things and all those who participate. Please enjoy your autumn week ahead, sweet and kind friends!!

I get a little sentimental about this time each year. . .

2010-09-26T20:04:00.000-07:00

What is it about autumn that is always a little bittersweet to me? I love this wonderful season, in fact, it is my favorite along with spring, and yet I always reminisce about the past and the times of my childhood. Those golden days of turquoise blue skies and fiery red and golden leaves...

I remember~
*fishing for trout on the Pecos River with my daddy on a cool autumn morning. I was so excited when I caught one. We fried them up and ate them, too.
*Friday night football games cheering for our Carlsbad Cavemen team~"Two bits, four bits, six bits, a dollar, All for the Cavemen, stand up and hollar!!!"
*my momma's cornbread dressing, steaming hot with cranberry sauce at our Thanksgiving table. We always used our best china and silver and lace tablecloth, being truly thankful for all we had been blessed with.
*Halloween carnivals at school where we were led blindfolded into the "haunted house" where we touched eyeballs (peeled grapes), intestines (cooked spaghetti) and brains (cold jiggly jello). There was always one room where we could spend a ticket and go inside the room and watch "Spanky and Our Gang" movies, a real treat in those days where movies and videos did not abound.

Yes, these were happy times and still are as I think back to those long ago days. What memories do you have of autumn? Many happy ones, I hope. Thank you so much for stopping by today and allowing me to share some memories with you, sweet friends~Have a happy autumn week!

Tea Party in the garden...September morning and autumn days will soon be here!!!

2010-09-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

Grab your straw hat, and let's go into my cottage garden for tea today...

Soothing rains have helped my roses, rose of sharon, and Southern Belle hibiscus to bloom...

I am very fond of these luncheon sets with the plate and tea cup all in one. This is the "moss rose" pattern I believe. Ladies can carry their scones and tea in one trip...

"By all these lovely tokens, September days are here, with summer's best of weather, and autumn's best of cheer."

This is one of my favorite tea pots. It reminds me of tea in an English cottage.

We can sit here on my front porch if you would like. There is usually a cool breeze blowing through.

This pretty teapot and cup for one were painted by Ms. Amy. You will find her here: http://vintageporcelainart.blogspot.com/

I even have teacups and saucers "growing" in my garden.

This sweet little teacup is one of my favorites. It is paper thin and very delicate. No markings on it.

This is where my grandchildren and I have our tea parties in my back yard.

I hope you have enjoyed your tea today. I always enjoy our visits together. I am wishing you the happiest of September days...

I am participating in these tea parties: please join all of us as we celebrate with sandi at http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ martha at http://marthasfavorites.com/ and terri at http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/ I am posting a little early. The tea posts won't be up until late Monday or early Tuesday.

Angels at Bunny Cottage. . .

2010-09-12T11:00:00.001-07:00

Sun is setting in the west. . .

Angels watching over me my Lord. . .

Sleep, my child, and take your rest. . .

Angels watching over me. . .

All night, all day. . .

Angels watching over me my Lord. . .

All night, all day. . .

Yes, angels watching over me and you!

My "Heavenly Blue" morning glory always charm me each year with this gorgeous shade of blue.

Hope you have a "heavenly" day, dear friends. Thank you so much for coming by for a visit.

Let us stand together. . .

2010-09-10T15:12:00.001-07:00

I am sure we all remember where we were, what we were doing on that fateful day on September 11. As Americans we pulled together and stood united when our precious and beautiful country was under attack. After all, we are Americans, and that is what Americans do. It is my prayer that we will still stand together, still love each other, still support our country. We are a nation of individuals. We don't all share the same culture, same religion, same political beliefs. This again is what makes us America. We are a vast melting pot of very many people. As we think back to that day that will always live in our memories, let us recommit to our love for our nation and the wonderful people who make up this great nation. We will always remember those we lost that day. We will always be thankful for our brave military men and women who have performed their duties admirably, leaving home and family to protect and defend. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice. Of course, many are still serving in harm's way this very hour. We will always be thankful for those firefighters and police men and women who rushed in to rescue and help while others were rushing to get out. My little granddaughter, Maggie, is having a birthday tomorrow. Yes, on September 11. When I think of her and her sweet life, it is a testimony to me that God is still in the healing business. He is still bringing new life into our world. He still desires for us to love our families, our friends, our fellow country men and women and help each other in every way possible. Yes, even those who may be different than us. I am pretty sure God is looking on the inside of each of us and not on the outside. May we be able to see the same way He does. God bless you all!! Have a blessed weekend~love always to you.

Whimsical Tea Pots. . .

2010-09-06T07:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome to tea, dear friends. . .of course, one must have a bunny teapot at Bunny Cottage.

My roses wanted to be a part of the party, too. "Winter Sunset" arrived looking quite "peachy".

Kitty cat teapot is ready to pour you a cup. . .What flavor would you like?

"Georgetown Tea" arrived with a friend. . .

We can have "sweet dreams" in my "cottage garden" as we enjoy a cup together.

"Ms. Cramoisi Superieur" is a bit shy and wants to hide behind the leaves and branches. Come on in, we are all friends here.

We can't forget the rosy cream and sugar. . .One lump or two?

A little cup of friendship

With a bag of tea

When you drink this

Think of love from me.

Today I am participating in "Tea Cups on Tuesday". Please join in with our faithful hostesses and all of our tea celebrants by going here: visit Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ visit Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com visit Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/ Thank you so much for coming by for a visit. I hope you have the happiest of days.

Hello, dear friends. . .

2010-09-01T21:09:00.001-07:00

I have not been a very good friend lately. . .

and I do apologize. . . I am going to try to do a much better job of visiting with you

and sharing from my heart here at Bunny Cottage. . .

Your friendship means very much to me, and I value and treasure each one of you.

I hope you have had a good summer full of family fun and happiness with friends. Could it be that autumn is just around the corner?

Wishing you much love and happiness, dear ones. Enjoy the rest of your week and upcoming weekend!!! "Don't hurry. Don't worry. You're only here for a short visit. So don't forget to stop and smell the roses."~Walter Hagen

Hello, dear friends!! Welcome to our "Tea Time on Tuesday" and "Vintage Alphabet Party"

2010-08-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

What is it about handpainted china. . .

that makes my heart skip a beat. . .

makes me smile from head to toe?

I so admire those who can paint these lovely pieces, don't you?

I am sharing with you today, sweet friends, some of my favorite pieces. . .plates, cups, saucers, tea caddy, tea strainer and

tea trivet. I hope you have enjoyed seeing some of my favorite things around "Bunny Cottage".

For the Vintage Alphabet Party, our letters are "N" and "O". For "N" I am sharing vintage needlework, a favorite southern belle linen. I think the needlework on this piece is extraordinary.

And for "O" some old garden roses from my garden. These roses are called "La Marne". Please visit those who are participating in our tea time by going here to see our wonderful hostesses: Martha @ http://marthasfavorites.com/ Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ and Terri @ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com For those participating in the etsy cottage style vintage alphabet party, please visit here: http://etsycottagestyle.blogspot.com/

Have a lovely week and may God bless each and every one of you always!!

It's all right, honey. I've got you!!

2010-08-14T21:10:00.000-07:00

I was shopping recently at a local garden center when I noticed a man and his wife also shopping for flowers to plant in their garden. The stately man was a veteran of our US military I could tell by the cap he wore. His sweet wife had difficulty walking and was very unsteady on her feet.

I watched as she held on to the handle of the shopping cart to steady herself and make it easier for her to walk. Her kind husband was right by her side and holding onto the side of the cart so it wouldn't suddenly move forward and cause her to lose her balance.

As the wife would point out which flowers she would like to plant, her husband would carefully place them in the basket. A few times I would hear her husband reassure her that he was holding onto the cart and making sure that she would not fall. He would say, "It's all right, honey, I've got you!"

As I thought on his words, it came to mind that this is really what we are called to do in our world today. To walk alongside each other, to steady each other, to reassure each other with words of kindness. In the same way this is what God does for us. When we stumble, when we fall, when we fail miserably, He is right there by our side, sheltering us, speaking words of kindness and saying to us, "It's all right, my child. I've got you!"

I am certain that loving gentleman went home and planted all of those pretty flowers for his dear wife to enjoy in their garden.

Thank you so much for coming by for a visit today, my sweet and kind friends. You are a blessing and an encouragement to me along this journey we call life.

Barn chicks, Texas barns, genuine cowgirls, and my pioneer heritage~

2010-08-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

I am a "barn chick" and a cowgirl at heart. . .must be my Texas/New Mexico roots. . .

I have noticed we Texans love to paint our state flag on our barns. . .

Yes, we are a pretty proud bunch when it comes to our state. We were, after all, our own country at one time. We sometimes still think we are!!!

Can you imagine the memories this old Texas barn holds inside?

Meet Ms. Mabel Strickland. . .Always a lady, Always a cowgirl. . ."The Lovely Lady of Rodeo" ~ I have always admired our country's cowgirls for their charm, their courage, and their "true grit".

Ms. Prairie Rose Henderson, bronc rider, competitive relay race rider, Hall of Fame Cowgirl

I love her "bloomers", don't you? They were considered very "racy" at the time for showing too much leg!!!

"Sunday Flowers", a favorite painting done by one of my favorite artists, Gary Niblett. I grew up with Gary in Carlsbad, New Mexico. He is a member of the "Cowboy Artists of America" and the "Santa Fe Watercolor Society"

The thing that I love so much about this painting is that even in the days of our pioneers, these sweet ladies loved to gather up wildflowers and enjoy the beautiful world God has given us. I have pioneer roots. My great great grandfathers were part of the "Old 300", the first 300 pioneer settlers who came to Texas in the 1800's with Stephen F. Austin. I like to think that I have that same "pioneer spirit" in my heart. Thank you, sweet and dear friends, for joining me today. I am participating in the "Barn Chicks" party hosted by Karen of Brayton Homestead Interiors. I am posting a little early, the party actually starts Friday, August 6. Please visit my friend Karen @ http://braytonhomesteadinteriors.blogspot.com/ to see all of the other participants. May God enfold each and every one of us in the shelter of His wings.

Come and share a pot of tea~My home is warm, and my friendship is free.

2010-08-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome to tea, sweet friends!! I will put the tea kettle on~"Remember the tea kettle, it is always up to its neck in hot water, yet it still sings!"

Please choose a favorite cup and saucer. . .

" Come along inside...

We'll see if tea and buns can make the world a better place." The Wind in the Willows

Below is one of my favorite plates adorned with a "sweet" and my grandmother's sewing scissors. I will always treasure them.

We can sit and visit a while here in my comfy very red chairs...

These ladies are from the 1915 Ladies Home Journal. I wonder if they are going out to tea. Would you wear one of these sweet hats to tea? If so, which one would you choose. I would have a hard time deciding. . .

I hope you have enjoyed our tea time today. Please visit all the others who are participating in our Tea Cups on Tuesday. You will find them here with our lovely hostesses: Martha@ http://marthasfavorites.com/ Sandi @ http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ and Terri@ http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/

May you have the happiest of weeks!!

Hello, dear friends. . .Love is just a word until someone comes along and gives it meaning~

2010-07-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

The first two pictures are a couple of little projects I did the past few days. I made a copy of this vintage image of the young lady in her bonnet and then embellished it with some purple flowers on her hat and a heart shaped rhinestone on the ribbon of the hat. Don't you love the sweet expression on her face and that sweet, sweet bonnet? I sometimes think I was born in the wrong era. I put the image in a white frame that I already had. I used the same image to decorate and embellish a vintage like bottle that I had. I had fun doing both of these, and they are both in my bedroom for me to look at and enjoy.

The next pictures are of a wonderful wedding themed giveaway that I won from my friend, Stephanie, of Angelic Accents. As you can see, each present was beautifully wrapped in netting, and tissue and ribbons. I oohed and aahed as I opened each one. Notice the gorgeous Martha Stewart wedding cake topper, the sweet crossed stitched bride pillow, bride and groom mints, gold embossed stickers, tiny wedding gown, beautiful vintage bridal images, one in particular which I especially adore has the bride's dress made from a vintage bridal hanky, champagne glasses, and last but certainly not least, a bridal themed group of charms. Thank you so much, Stephanie, for your generosity. I felt like I was having Christmas in July!! If you have the opportunity, please stop by and see Stephanie and her beautiful home. She sells the most gorgeous mirrors, too. You will find her here: http://angelicaccents.blogspot.com/

Enjoy your weekend!! Sending love and hugs to you!!

True Beauty. . .

2010-07-28T14:47:00.001-07:00

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. . .

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. . .

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. . .

And for beautiful hair, let a child run their fingers through it once a day.~Sam Levinson

In a society so seemingly obsessed with physical beauty, it is my prayer that we could follow this simple recipe for "true beauty". I am seeing the true beauty in each of you dear friends as you love your homes and families and one another. God bless each and every one of you!

Down the garden paths~

2010-07-26T00:39:00.000-07:00

Gardening is about enjoying the smell of things growing in the soil,

Getting dirty without feeling guilty,

And generally taking the time to soak up a little peace and serenity.~Lindley Karsten

You can bury a lot of trouble digging in the soil.

Dear friends, I am wishing for you a week full of peace, beauty and serenity. Your friendship is a true treasure, and I thank you for it.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. . .

2010-07-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope; Where there is darkness, light;

And where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;

to be understood as to understand;

to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen

I think I comprehend this beautiful prayer by Saint Francis of Assisi just a little better now that these sweet ones have come into my life. Thank you, Lord, for the pure love of my grandchildren, Jake, Grace, Luke, Ally, Maggie and Henna Rose. Wishing love and peace to each of you, dear friends. (I have another one of these sweet ones on the way!!)

Welcome to "Vintage Alphabet Party" and "Tea Cups on Tuesday"

2010-07-19T12:58:00.001-07:00

"L" is for vintage luggage pocket embellished with sweet laces and ribbons. . .

"L" is for a Limoges charger that hangs on the wall in my bedroom. . .

"L" is for vintage Linens, a sweet Southern Belle that decorates a table in my bedroom. . .

"M" is for a Mosaic heart made from vintage china that hangs in my dining room. . . Love the sentiment on this one. . .

"M" is for Marching Musicians, a Christmas present from my dear sister, Myra. . . She knows what I love, and we love similar things. . .

"L" and "M" for old garden roses: Le Vesuve, Maggie, and Mrs. B. R. Cant, three of my favorites in rosy mugs (good for drinking tea and coffee). . .

A favorite tea cup holding a bunny with her pink tutu. . .

A plate full of pretties. . .

A favorite sign that expresses how I feel about life. . .

Hello, sweet ones! I enjoy life very much and believe that every day we are given on earth is a gift from God. We can determine how we feel about life by our attitude, and I choose to treasure each day.~"Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year."~Ralph Waldo Emerson

To visit all of those participating in the "Vintage Alphabet Party", please go here http://etsycottagestyle.blogspot.com/ To visit all of those participating in "Tea Cups on Tuesday" please visit these dear friends~ Martha at http://marthasfavorites.com/ Sandi at http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ and Terri at http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/ Thank you so much for stopping by today. . . enjoy each day!!!

Bouquets picked just for you, dear friends~

2010-07-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

While strolling through my garden this morning, I cut some of my old garden roses and put them in these pretty bottles for us to enjoy today.

"Where comes this idea that if what we are doing is fun, it can't be God's will? The God who made giraffes, a baby's fingernails, a puppy's tail, a crooknecked squash, the bobwhite's call, and a young girl's giggle, has a sense of humor. Make no mistake about that."~Catherine Marshall

Aren't you glad He has a sense of humor? I hope you share some giggles with someone soon!! Love and blessings always~ Vicki

The teapot parade. . .

2010-07-11T20:53:00.001-07:00

I'm a little teapot. . .

Short and stout.

Here is my handle.

Here is my spout.

When I get all steamed up,

Hear me shout,

"Tip me over and pour me out!"

Do you remember singing this song as a child and doing the motions with it? I do. Today, I am showing some of my favorite teapots around my cottage. Please visit our faithful hostesses for "Tea Things on Tuesday": Martha at http://marthasfavorites.com Sandi at http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ and Terri at http://artfulaffirmations.blogspot.com/

You will enjoy seeing all of the lovely tea things our participants have to share this week.

"A little cup of friendship

With a bag of tea.

When you drink this

Think of love from me."

Wishing you the best of weeks and much happiness, my sweet friends. Thank you so much for your kindness and the friendship you show!!

Back in my nest once again. . .

2010-07-07T00:09:00.001-07:00

Hello dear friends, I have been away for a few days visiting with my loved ones. We had a wonderful time celebrating the Fourth of July and were so thankful for the freedom we have here in our beautiful country, the United States of America.

We wrote our names with sparklers, watched a parade, and rode fun rides such as the merry-go-round. We ate vanilla ice cream with peach cobbler, so yummy!

Yes, it was a wonderful time spent with my family. And now, I am back to my own little nest and sleeping in my own bed. I hope each of you, sweet friends, had a wonderful time, too.

Thank you so much for coming by for a visit. I will be visiting each one of you to get caught up on what has been happening in your life.It is very dark here tonight, but first thing in the morning I will be out to visit my garden which I have missed very much.

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song." ~ Chinese Proverb

Wishing you much bird song and happiness each and every day!

A few thoughts for today. . .

2010-06-28T14:13:00.001-07:00

*Pray all the time. If necessary, use words.
*God forgets the past. Imitate Him.
*Greed is often regretted. Generosity~never.
*Don't ask God to do what you want. Ask God to do what is right.
*No one is useless to God. No one.
*Nails didn't hold God to a cross. Love did.
*You will never forgive anyone more than God has already forgiven you.

These simple thoughts are speaking to me today, dear friends. Maybe one or two will speak to you. The picture is a favorite of mine, two of my granddaughters, Maggie and Ally. Wishing you the best of days and much love.

How do you fall in love? When do you say I do?

2010-06-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

When is the perfect time to spend the rest of your life? Seasons may come and go and sometimes it rains and snows. There will be highs and lows so only you will know. You never know just where it will find you because it can come on you so fast. Seems like it takes forever when you want it so bad. But don't ever take it for granted because it's more than sowing some seeds. It takes sun and water so give it what it needs. And that's how you fall in love, that's when you say I do. That's when you know it's time to spend the rest of your life. (One of my favorite love songs by "Alabama")

Hello, sweet friends and welcome. I am participating in Stephanie's "Wedding Party" fun event. After all, June is the month for weddings. I am showing you some things around Bunny Cottage that I have collected over the years that remind me of love and marriage. I am a hopeless romantic so roses, hearts, pretty cakes, little kitty bride with her bridesmaids, a lovely bride pillow~all of these remind me of everlasting love. I am also featuring three of my favorite couples who love each other and take their vows quite seriously: My grandparents, G. W. and Maude May Russell on their wedding day. Don't you love the embellishments on her dress? And then my children, Jeremy and Lindy, and Aaron and Corina. Such sweet, sweet couples.

Please visit Stephanie at http://angelicaccents.blogspot.com/ to find out all of the other participants. Stephanie is a Texas gal like me, and you will love her. She always has beautiful things to share. I am also participating in Pink Saturday after being away for a few weeks. Please visit Ms. Beverly at http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/ to see all the fun pink participants. Thank you, Beverly, for hostessing us each week.

I am dedicating my post to all of you sweet couples who love and cherish one another. May God bless you richly. Even though I am a single gal, I am thankful for couples like my parents, and grandparents and children who still honor "the tie that binds". Blessings and love to everyone!

Vintage Alphabet Party and Tea Things on Tuesday. . .

2010-06-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

Hello, and thank you for coming by for a visit at Bunny Cottage. Today, I am participating in two "parties", Vintage Alphabet, and Tea Things on Tuesday. For the Vintage Alphabet party on Etsy Cottage Style, our letters this month are "I", "J" and "K". For "I", I chose to show vintage images of my great grandparents, John Dawson Smith, and Roena Josephine White Smith. I know very little about my great grandparents, they were my daddy's grandparents, and you can imagine my joy when I found these pictures of them. I would say it was quite by accident, but I believe God led me to them. I was browsing through some geneaology places on my computer, and lo and behold, I found these wonderful pictures and now know the cemetery in which they are buried. I also know their birthdates and dates of their death. I see my great grandmother loved jewelry as I do, too. For "J", I chose the jewelry that she is wearing. I have always been drawn to antique jewelry or at least jewelry that looks antique. I feel a bond with these two people because we are a part of each other. I celebrate the love they shared for each other. For "K", I chose the kaleidoscope of colors in my vintage style garden. All the flowers I grow are of the antique or old garden variety, and I love the old fashioned names: Rose of Sharon, Pinks, Flags, Bachelor Buttons and so on. For the Tea Party, I am showing a favorite tea cup and creamer and sugar. I hope you have enjoyed our little time together, sweet friends. Wishing you a wonderful week and much happiness and joy~Please visit Etsy Cottage Style for a list of those participants at http://etsycottagestyle.blogspot.com/ Please visit Martha at http://marthasfavorites.com/ and Sandi at http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/ and Katherine at http://ladykatherineteaparlor.blogspot.com/ for the tea party participants.

"For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul."~~Judy Garland

My Daddy, My Hero

2010-06-16T21:22:00.001-07:00

With Father's Day approaching this Sunday, my thoughts this evening are turning toward my hero, my daddy. My daddy loved his family and took great pride in providing for his family. He worked all one autumn digging up tree stumps from a farmer's field to have enough money to buy a winter coat for my sister, Myra, when she was just a young girl. My mother had Parkinson's Disease and for the last ten years of her life, my daddy was momma's major caregiver. Daddy had two daughters, Myra and I, and no sons. I suppose I turned out to be his surrogate son. We went fishing together and watched sports together. To this day, I love to go fishing and usually always watch some sporting event on tv and not a whole lot of anything else. Daddy was "Pop" to his grandchildren and let me tell you, he worshipped the ground they walked on. My boys would say, "Pop, have you seen that new Monster Wheels Truck at Wal-Mart?" and daddy would say, "No, I don't think I have. Let's go take a look at one because I think you need one of those." They would soon be back home with the latest Monster Truck one for each, Jeremy and Aaron. Tonight I am thankful for my daddy and the legacy he left for our entire family. He was a man of God and treated all people with respect and dignity. He loved to laugh and have a good time. His presence is with me each day. I have raised two sons, and I can see my daddy in them as they love their families and strive to meet the needs of their wives and children. I am wishing all father's everywhere the happiest of Father's Day and thank you for the positive influences you have made in our lives. Sending love to each of you, sweet friends.

O Fair New Mexico. . .

2010-06-14T18:52:00.001-07:00

Hello and welcome, sweet friends. I said I would tell you more about our visit to the beautiful state of New Mexico. We went to Roswell where my youngest son and his family now reside. It was a sort of a homecoming for us all as we lived in Roswell when my sons were in elementary school. We went to Ruidoso, NM, and drove up to almost the summit of Sierra Blanca. My son drove one car, and I drove the other. One beautiful memory that I will always have is singing "Jesus Loves Me" with my grandchildren as we took those hairpin curves up the side of the rugged mountain. It was a calm assurance to know we were in His hands. We all did some hiking there on the side of the mountain. I was very interested in the flowers growing there. I saw what looked like a wild iris. Also, high on the list of things to do was visit the Alien Museum. The children loved it as they got to pose with the aliens in different parts of the museum. We, of course, had to take home some alien souvenirs. Another favorite thing we did was visit the Bottomless Lakes State Park. The water is very cold and crystal clear. They have an area partitioned off for swimmers. This area is not too deep, and my grandchildren could play there. They had a ball. It was wonderful to spend time with my sons and their family. I have been blessed with sons who love their wives and children. I have also been blessed with kind daughters in law. These grandchildren are true blessings from God. I love their sweet, sweet spirits. I am a fifth generation Texan but have lived on and off in NM. My childhood was spent there, and the beautiful Land of Enchantment will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for dropping by for a visit with me. I hope your week is going well and you are enjoying this wonderful life we have been given. Love and blessings always!!

It is good to be back home. . .

2010-06-08T16:53:00.001-07:00

Hello, dear friends, I have been on a trip to visit my youngest son, Aaron, and his family in Roswell, NM. Aaron just recently graduated with his law degree from the University of Texas and was hired by a law firm in Roswell. My oldest son, Jeremy, and his children and I went to visit them this past weekend. We had so much fun, and I will tell more about our trip soon. My garden survived the few days that I was away, and it is always good to sleep in my own bed once again. The first picture is the dresser in my bedroom filled with some of my favorite things. The next three pictures are purple coneflowers, daylilies and a hardy hibiscus bloom in my cottage garden. I purchased the three sweet plates from the antique mall in Roswell. They are marked Haviland, France, and I love the combination of tiny pink roses with a blue border. I purchased the little pretty basket from Rhea of "Sweet and Shabby Roses". I purchased the wonderful embellished bottle from Lynn of "Teacup Stitches". Both of these ladies are sweet, kind and super talented. The next picture is a perennial morning glory vine that grows in a corner of my garden. And of course, I always love to share a vintage image in closing. I am getting around to visiting each and every one of you kind friends to catch up on all the news since I have been gone. I have missed you and our visits. I hope you are having a beautiful week!

"What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other?"~ George Elliot

A little of this, and a little of that. . .

2010-05-31T18:52:00.001-07:00

Hello, dear friends! I am so glad you could come by for a visit. I am sharing a few things around Bunny Cottage that are making me smile today. Flowers from my garden: Rose of Sharon, daylilies, pinks and hydrangea. I must say you must surely love hydrangeas (and I do) to be able to grow them in this Texas heat. I water them of a morning, and they are beginning to droop by the afternoon. I have them planted in mostly shade, too. Oh well, I don't really care because I will always grow some in my garden. Daylilies are such a happy flower, love them. Inside my home, handpainted roses, china, bunnies, vintage linens, tea cups and tea pots. If you notice the sixth picture from the top, you will see a pin cushion my sweet sister Myra made for me for Mother's Day from a vintage sugar bowl. I love this, too. The rabbit in the third picture from the bottom I purchased several years ago in a small, picturesque town in Louisiana. This was the town where "Steel Magnolias" was filmed. He has sat on my mantle and kept me company for some time now. I hope and trust that you each had a lovely weekend as we celebrated Memorial Day and remembered the cost of our freedom that we enjoy so much. Have the best of weeks!! Love and blessings being sent your way!

"I don't think of all the misery but of the beauty that still remains."~Anne Frank

To our military heroes and their families. . .

2010-05-29T09:20:00.001-07:00

We say "thank you" from the bottom of our hearts!! You have sacrificed so much, some even your own life, so that we could live in freedom in our great land. We salute you!!

www.clermontyellowribbon.com/untilthenflash.htm

Dear friends, enjoy your Memorial Day weekend as we think of our brave men and women who have so proudly served. I am proud to say that I am the mother of two veterans, Jeremy (US Navy) and Aaron (US Army). Love and blessings to you all.

My wishes for our children today. . .

2010-05-24T11:38:00.001-07:00

I was just thinking what a magical time it was growing up in the 1950's and early 1960's. How much fun we had during this innocent time using our imagination and playing with our friends. Many of the experiences I had growing up would be my wishes for my grandchildren and all of our children today. These things I would wish for them. . .

*watching Mary Martin as Peter Pan on tv and being sure you could fly the next day if you only believed hard enough

*finding a little dead bird in your grandmother's backyard and having a funeral service for it with your cousins, complete with sermon, hymns, prayers and kleenex flowers to cover the shoebox the little bird was placed in

*catching fireflies on a warm summer evening

*making flower garlands for your hair

*playing jacks, jump rope and hopscotch

*eating homemade ice cream and ice cold watermelon at a family picnic (and when I say family, I mean the whole family, aunts and uncles, cousins, and grandparents)

*going to a Saturday afternoon matinee for 25 cents and watching "Ma and Pa Kettle" or "The Three Stooges"

*Friday night sleepovers with your best friend and watching "Weird Theater" on tv (usually something with Vincent Price) and hiding your eyes and being scared to death

*buying a beautiful diamond or pearl ring at the five and dime store and then watching your finger turn a shade of green

*making smores around a campfire

*wanting to be just like Hayley Mills as she starred in those wonderful Disney movies

*crying for "Old Yellar" and cheering for Dorothy to find the city of Oz and being scared stiff by those flying monkeys

*riding your bike like the wind as you followed a rainbow to try and get to the end of it, being sure there were leprechauns and a pot of gold at the end

*playing softball at school recess and not really keeping close score because everyone was playing "just for the fun of it"

*going to Vacation Bible School and looking forward to that kool aid and homemade cookies, also painting those plaster of paris molds to give to your mother who always hung them somewhere in the house with pride

*playing hide and go seek with the neighborhood kids on a hot summer night until your parents called you because it was time to go home

*not really a care or worry in the world because we always knew Mighty Mouse would "come to save the day"

Thank you, sweet friends, for stopping by today. May those times of innocence and fun always be in our hearts as we share happy times with our own children and grandchildren. Love to each and every one of you.

Through the garden gate. . .

2010-05-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear friends, come on through my garden gate. We can sit and drink a glass of ice cold mint tea while we visit. It always brightens my day when you come by. We may see a butterfly float by on golden wings or perhaps hear the flutter of a sweet hummingbirds wings. I hope you are having a good day full of God's beauty and blessings. . .

May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow.

May the soft winds freshen your spirit.

May the sunshine brighten your heart.

May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you.

And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love.

Friends are the flowers in life's garden. . .

2010-05-13T16:29:00.001-07:00

May I always recall and be thankful
For help along the way,
For the unseen helpers who shaped me
Into the person I am today.

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2

Dear friends, I am convinced that we do not always realize the impact we have on other people's lives. Sometimes our smile or hug will be the only one received by those around us. Thank you for your friendship and for the impact your sweet lives have had on my life.

A Woman of Faith. . .

2010-05-06T20:45:00.000-07:00

I write this post this evening in praise of my mother, Ressie Roween (Russell) Smith. She has been my guiding light and the one I look to pattern my life after. She had a strong and deep abiding faith in God and was one of the strongest persons I have ever known. Hers was a quiet strength. She never drew attention to herself but rather always looked to see how she could help someone else. My mother, my sister, my grandmothers, my aunts, and the sweet women in the church where I grew up. . . all of these ladies have helped to form and shape me into the person I am today. I thank them for this. Many of these ladies, like my mother, have gone on to heaven. However, I feel their presence daily and remember the life lessons they have taught me
so well. I have always said if I could just be half the mother my mother was to me, I would be a tremendous success. I love you, momma!

Thank you, sweet friends, for dropping by. And for all mothers everywhere, thank you, dear ones. Sending much love to each and every one of you.

Things with a history. . . Pink Saturday, May 1, 2010

2010-04-30T16:54:00.001-07:00

Happy first day of May, sweet friends! Today, I wanted to share with you the sweetest plate decorated by Ms. Rhea of "Sweet 'n Shabby Roses". I purchased this plate as soon as I saw it on her last post. I love the gold edging, the sweet roses, the darling angel and the aqua velvet and rhinestones she used to embellish this plate. If you have not met Rhea, please stop by her "Sweet 'n' Shabby Roses" because you are in for a treat. You will find her here: http://sweetnshabbyroses.blogspot.com/ The next two handpainted bowls I have had for some time, but I think they match the plate quite a bit. On the back of one of the bowls there is this inscription: Happy Birthday to Marguret~ Paul 1937. On the back of the other bowl there is an inscription that says: Greetings, Paul and Marguret, 12/25~1936. I love to think of these beautiful pieces being presented as gifts to someone long ago and loved dearly by the recipient. I now get to love these pieces, too. The little teapot, saucer and cup are also wonderful. They were given to me as a gift by my dear friend, Ita. She also gave me a sweet pin cushion and an earring holder. Ita is a beautiful lady who loves her home and family. She lives all the way across the world from me in Malaysia. Thank you, Ita, for my pretties. If you would like to visit Ita, you will find her here: http://itajeff68.blogspot.com/ The last pictures are Columbines and irises from my garden. Please visit Ms. Beverly and all the pink participants by going here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/

Thank you so much for coming by for a visit. Have a lovely day!

Happy Wishes from Bunny Cottage Garden. . .

2010-04-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

My dear friends~

These things I warmly wish for you

Someone to love

Some work to do

A bit o'sun

A bit o'cheer

And a guardian angel always near.

Blessings and love being sent your way!

My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys. . .

2010-04-25T14:53:00.001-07:00

I may be somewhat of a "Pollyanna" who likes to look at life through rose-colored glasses, but I've always liked for my heroes to be strong, righting the world of all wrongs, getting the girl in the end, and living happily ever after.

"I did pretty good for a guy who never finished high school and used to yodel at square dances."~ Roy Rogers

Happy trails, to you my sweet friends, until we meet again!

Happy Pink Saturday!! April 24, 2010

2010-04-23T07:44:00.001-07:00

If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring? The Pilgrims (This was a favorite joke of the third graders I taught for many years.) Hello, sweet and kind friends! Once again it is time to show our favorite pinks. Today, I am showing pinks from inside and out at Bunny Cottage. My garden has really been putting on a show this year. We had an extremely cold winter for Central Texas and lots of rain so far this spring. Nothing helps the garden to grow like rain sent from God. I can water all day with hose water, but when rain comes from heaven, the plants drink it up. Please visit Ms. Beverly and our other pink participants by going here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/

Thank you so much for your visit today! It always brightens my day when you do. Sending lots of love and happiness your way!

Vintage Alphabet Party and Tea Things on Tuesday. . .

2010-04-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Hello, dear friends! Today I am participating in the Etsy Cottage Style Vintage Alphabet Party. The letters for this month are "E" and "F". For "E" I chose to show my English breakfast set and Enchanting children figurines. For "F" I chose Flowers. Almost all of the roses in my garden are old garden roses. To see other participants in the vintage alphabet party, please go here: http://etsycottagestyle.blogspot.com/ To see the tea party participants, please visit my friends, Martha and Sandi, by going here: http://www.marthasfavorites.com/ and http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."~Maya Angelou

Thank you for your kind visit. I hope you have a beautiful week!

Bunny Cottage Garden. . .Happy Pink Saturday, April17, 2010

2010-04-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

Happy spring to each and every one of you, dear friends!! Today I am sharing some garden settings from around Bunny Cottage. I hope you enjoy them! My garden is such a blessing to me, and I love to share it with others. "There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again."~Elizabeth Lawrence Today I am participating in "Pink Saturday". Please visit Ms. Beverly, our faithful and gracious host, and all the other pink participants by going here:

http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/ Have a delightful weekend full of love and laughter.

A Pocket Full of Pretties. . .A Lovely Heart. . . My Garden Blooms

2010-04-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

Hello, sweet friends, and thank you for coming by for a visit!! My friend, Ann, from "The Tin Rabbit" made the gorgeous pocket for me. It is made from a vintage suitcase pocket and covered in beautiful lace and ribbons and filled with lovely ephemera. Isn't it pretty? She also made the wonderful heart with a pocket on it to fill with pretties. They both smell heavenly, too. They are making my whole home smell so nice. She included a delicious paper rose, some delightful egg soaps, and a sweet, sweet egg topped off with posies. I love everything, Ann. Thank you so much! Ann is a Texas gal like me and sweet as can be. Please pay her a visit when you have the opportunity. You will find her here: http://thetinrabbit.blogspot.com/ The other pictures are just some things from my cottage garden. Don't you love spring? How wonderful God is to bless us with new life each year after a long winter. "Today I rejoiced in the beauty of life and love and danced with the angels". I hope you are having the happiest of weeks!! Sending love and blessings your way!

Tea Cups and Friends. . . Pink Saturday and Teacup Tuesday

2010-04-09T06:37:00.001-07:00

Teacups and friends. . . Have you noticed the similarities between the two? Each one unique, each one different, but both beautiful inside and out. Each one bringing comfort and cheer. Each one becoming more dear with the passing of time. Teacups and friends, today I am truly thankful for both. Thank you for your kind friendship, sweet friends!! "Kind words are short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." I am participating in Pink Saturday. Please visit our kind hostess, Ms. Beverly, and all the other participants by going here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/ I am also participating in Teacup Tuesday hosted each week by the very kind, Martha. You can find those participants here: http://www.marthasfavorites.com/ I am also linking with my sweet friend, Sandi, from Rose Chintz Cottage as she hosts a teaparty on Tuesdays, too. You will find her here: http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/

Grandchildren. . .

2010-04-04T16:45:00.001-07:00

When I count my blessings, I count them twice!!! Jake, Grace, Ally, Luke, Maggie, and Henna Rose. They spent the night, we had breakfast together, and then we hunted Easter eggs. We had so much fun!! I wanted you to see the bunny purses and cute little blue puppy my sister, Myra, made for the girls. I told her I wanted a bunny purse, too, but it would have to be larger to hold all my "stuff"! The six felt bags were filled with Easter goodies, and these were my Easter presents to them. My sweet friends, I hope you had a wonderful Easter as we celebrated the ressurection of Jesus. Sending much l0ve your way, and I hope you have a beautiful week!

Because He Lives. . . Happy Blessed Easter. . . Pink Saturday, April 3, 2010

2010-04-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hello, sweet friends! I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you a blessed Easter full of God's love and presence. I hope you can enjoy the day with family and friends.

The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said!"~Matthew 28:5,6

"Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,

Because He lives, all fear is gone,

Because I know He holds the future,

And life is worth the living,

Just because He lives!"~lyrics by Bill and Gloria Gaither

I am participating in Pink Saturday. Please visit Beverly and all the other participants by going here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/

Cupcake Days. . .

2010-03-28T19:55:00.001-07:00

One of my sweet childhood memories occured about this time each year. Each spring, my momma would make her jellybean cupcakes. She would ice the cakes and then cover them with coconut she had dyed green and then put jellybean eggs on top. She would then come to my classroom at Sunset Elementary and bring cupcakes for everyone in my class. I was always so proud of my mother and thought her cupcakes were the most wonderful thing ever. The older I become the more joy I receive from these happy times and happy memories. Thank you, sweet friends, for coming by and letting me share my memories with you. I hope each of you are experiencing the promises that spring and Easter bring.

"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about."

My first hummer. . .Happy Springtime Pink Saturday, March 27, 2010

2010-03-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

Hello, sweet friends and thank you for coming by for a visit! I saw my first hummingbird today. My heart always skips a beat when these little birds come up for a drink of nectar from my feeder or one of my flowers. I feel like spring is really here when I see a hummer. "La Belle Petite Maison" sign was made by the kind Rebecca of "A Gathering of Thoughts". She is a very talented painter and creator, and this sign is one of my very favorites. I made the Easter garland that hangs in my living room. The other pictures are from the garden of Bunny Cottage. The picture of the hollyhocks against the adobe wall is from Santa Fe and was taken by Charlene Vandini on a road trip she took to NM. Hollyhocks will forever remind me of my growing up days in NM and many happy memories. Please join all the other pink participants including our gracious host, Ms. Beverly, of "How Sweet the Sound", by going here: http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/ "The hum of bees is the voice of the garden."~Elizabeth Lawrence