its just part of your day

The back porch...

2010-10-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Our back porch is like none other. The decor is Red, White and Blue. Whenever Thomas and I are out at flea markets we keep an eye out for RWB items. There are two swings, two rocking chairs and a straight back chair. We have an old metal lawn chair that was used back in the 50's and 60's. Stan refinished it a few years back and painted it blue. The long saloon bench that set on the front porch of Mountain Memories is along one wall. We have a cozy table for 2, a potting bench and a deacons bench. We have collected 3 large hornets nest and a slew of baskets. Lot's of other trinkets and I think that's it....
The porch is a place to rest after a long hard day. It's a place to gather with our friends, chat and catch up. Linda and I have set many of night on the porch and rocked our problems away. Daddy usually comes back a few times a week. He will set in the swing and I will either get in the other swing or the rocker. When Sarah and Sandra are out they take turns setting in the swing with me. Of course Thomas and I are cuddled in the swing.
This time of year is the best time to enjoy the back porch. The crisp air in the early morning along with a cup of carmel apple cider makes you appreciate living in the country. In the afternoon the leaves are falling and the color palet is amazing. Come dusk when there is a chill in the evening air there's a afghan to wrap around your shoulders.
So if you find your self tired of the city or just need a quiet place to gather your thoughts come on out and set a spell with us.

Ethan

2010-10-18T08:38:00.000-07:00

As I came into work the other morning, the girls were talking about the wreck at Crane Hill. I began reading the article and the young man killed was, Ethan Shirley. As our customers came in they mentioned the wreck also. I felt a sense of sadness for the family and continued through the day and didn't think much of it.
Sunday was our regular Floral Convention meeting in Frankfort, Ky. As Thomas and I made our way into the meeting room they were talking about Eathan. I was stunned and heart broken to hear that Eathan was Dale's son. I've known Dale going on 15 years. Dale is originally from Bedford where he once owned the local floral shop. He has lived in Frankfort for quite some time. Dale is a very gifted floral designer and a good friend. We've set in the design room at convention many times and talked about our children, life and religion. We've shared a drink or two and even boogied on the dance floor. Not only is he an awesome designer but he has moves that make women week in the knees. My heart goes out to Dale and his family. Parents are not suppose to bury their children, but life doesn't always go as we would like.

Finally Friday....

2010-10-08T13:57:00.001-07:00

Wow..it's finally Friday. It's been a busy week at the flower shop. We finished up seven weddings and a funeral today. It has been a whirlwind week. Monday started out as mad rush and as the week went on it kept snowballing. Wednesday I made casket sprays. The economy must be getting better, we had a lot of walk-in orders. We went through almost 300 roses. For our reward today we all ordered a 10'' pizza. Not just one pizza, but one for each of us. Judy had mushrooms with sausage, Heather had cheese, Linda had Hawaiian and I had three meat. We sat around the table and looked at each other and we couldn't believe that we each had our separate pizza. We try our best to eat healthy here in the shop. There is always fresh fruit and we each try to bring in snacks that are good for us. But after the week we just had we figured we deserved pizza. But each of us left at least a piece or two to take home so I guess you could say we didn't eat the whole pizza.
I'm looking forward to my weekend with Thomas. I have to deliver three of the weddings Saturday morning and then I'm off. We'll be working on the hot tub house. I reminded Thomas that the first snowfall might be six weeks away. He told me not to remind him.
I hope everyone enjoys your weekend and you take the time to get out side and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.

Spoons.....

2010-10-04T13:07:00.000-07:00

Sarah and I ventured to the Oktoberfest Friday evening. We seen a lot of old friends and spent a lot of time catching up with them. We loaded up on cinnamon rolls and kettle corn. I had to buy the larger bag of popcorn so that I could share with Daddy. Afterwards we went to Pat's house. Pat is Sarah's feller. He just happens to have three persimmon trees in his backyard. Some of them had fallen and we picked those up, but the majority of them won't fall till the first frost. I told Pat, no more going out to the bottoms for me, I will just come to your house. There's an old wise tale, that if you open the seed of a persimmon you will find the shape of a fork or a spoon. Fork represents not much snow and a spoon....well, you don't want to see one of them. The one I opened was a....spoon. I did read they were predicting 14" of snow for the month of January. But we'll see.
Sarah was all for the snow, she bought a new SUV last week and it's all wheel drive and she wants to see how it drives.....Sarah always did like to play in the snow. When she was a little girl she couldn't wait to go play in the snow. She always kept a scarf handy for the snow lady. Guess some little girls never really grow up!!

4 Little Piggy's

2010-09-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

Dennis and Dillon were out bright and early the other morning. They brought me four little piggy's.They're so cute. Dennis just laughed and Dillon rolled his eyes at me. They just don't understand why I would think they are cute. Four little girls all black in color. Most people don't know that pigs are very smart. But over time I will be able to call them by name and they will come to the fence and eat from my hand. You do have to be careful, they have very sharp teeth. I've learned a lot from Dillon about raising pigs and I still have more to learn. Lily don't care to much for them. She will stand there all day and bark if you let her. Bristol just looks at them, he's so laid back nothing much bothers him. As for BB, Bogie and Annie it's just another animal.
If your out by the house stop in and I will introduce you to the cutest piggy's in Uniontown.

Updates...........

2010-09-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

The race at Kentucky Speedway was great. Thomas and I enjoyed our date. The track is really nice and from each seat you have an overall view of the track. Thomas knows all about race tracks from all his years of working at MasterSbilt. The facility was designed with the fans in mind. They are adding a new seating section and work was in progress. Now for the best part of the evening...Diamond Rio. As usual they were great. They played at lot of their old music and mixed in a few newer ones. Thomas is not a country music fan, but he did enjoy his self. I do wish I had taken my sign...the one that said. "I'm friends with Scott McKain". That would have caught their attention and maybe I could have gotten back stage. But oh well, we still had an awesome evening just the two of us.
My appointment with the doc....it was wonderful news.

getting back to normal....

2010-09-13T12:18:00.000-07:00

It was back to work this morning. Leg is on the mend. I was so touched by all my friends that called, sent cards, sent text messages or left gift bags on my porch as I napped in the afternoons. Thomas, Sarah and Sandra were my rock last week. My BFF Linda, bless her heart she brung supper to us one evening.
Cindy and Jill took time off from work, to set in the waiting room and keep the girls company. Thomas kept them all in line from what I hear!! My church family was keeping a vigil with prayer.
I'm blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful caring friends.
It was back to normal as soon as I walked into work. Phone was ringing, folks were coming in and I was to meet with two family's as they needed to choose flowers for their loved one. Customers were asking how I was doing.
I'm off tomorrow (Tuesday) and I meet with the doctor to check on things. Waiting for the test results will drive you crazy. But you just have to have faith and know that things will be fine.
One friend called Sunday and said, the test will come back--all clear!! That's what we are praying for. Yep...just got to have faith.

Finally Friday.....

2010-09-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

It's finally Friday and Thomas and I are so looking forward to our three day weekend. We both had to work today and he just called and we were telling each other how our day had been. He said his went pretty fast and mine...well, I designed another casket spray and filled other orders as they came it. We're excited about our date tomorrow at Kentucky Speedway and enjoying Diamond Rio.
We're going to work on our hot tub house and hopefully get it almost done. We have a few other things that we need to get done around the house also. You know how it is you can't wait for a three day weekend and you have a list of things to get done. But at least we will be doing them together.
Next week I will be going in for outpatient surgery, so keep me in your prayers.
I hope everyone has an awesome weekend....love you all!!

Not so pretty flowers

2010-08-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I went to a funeral home to visit with a friend who had lost a family member. I made my way to the viewing room and found my friend. We greeted each other with a hug, she took my hand and we made our way to the casket.
Being a florist, I looked at the casket spray.....I could hardly take my eyes off the arrangement. It had to be the most hideous casket spray that I had ever seen. In all my years in the floral industry I have never seen a spray designed so pitiful. It was like they had just taken the flowers, threw them and where ever they landed that's where they left them.
The greens where old and the flowers weren't far behind. The ribbons were stuck in like they were ready to explode. I was ashamed for the family. Did other folks think they chose that design. My friend noticed I was staring...she squeezed my hand & whispered in my ear, "I know they are ugly, yours are always beautiful."
Designing casket sprays is my favorite floral arrangement. I take great pride in designing a spray and I put a lot of love into it. These flowers are placed on the casket and it reflects the deceased. I figured up I have designed close to 450 sprays. Thomas says I'm to picky. I tell him- being picky has nothing to do with it. I never get in a hurry and I put love and feelings into the design. I place the ribbons to lay ever so gently down the side. These ribbons carry the names...Mom, Loving Wife, Grandma, Nanny, Daughter.
Today, I designed a spray of all red roses for a Grandma who the family said, she was the most precious Grandma in the world. I designed her spray just as they said...for a most precious Grandma.

Caller 15

2010-08-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

Driving home the other evening from work I was surfing the radio stations. I quickly hit the stop button on WMPI and they were giving aways tickets. I had been hearing the advertisements for a few weeks and thought to myself..Wow, that would be great for Thomas and I to go. Diamond Rio was going to be at Kentucky Speedway. The DJ said, "Caller 15 will receive tickets to the race and hear in concert, Diamond Rio." I quickly picked up my cell phone. Luckily, I have them on speed dial. I waited for the DJ to answer. Wow.... Whooohoooo!! Yes I was caller 15. We are going to the race and I get to see Diamond Rio.
I couldn't wait to get home and give Thomas the news. He was really excited. We are now making plans for our date at the racetrack.
I won a gun for Thomas earlier in the summer and now I won tickets to the race/concert. Maybe I need to start buying lottery tickets. I'm one to put my name in the pot for a drawing and my name never, never gets pulled out. Maybe I'm on a roll.
Even though I meet Diamond Rio at Scott & Tammy's wedding, they wouldn't remember me. Maybe I could hold up a sign that says..."I'm friends with Scott McKain" that might get their attention. But I'll just set back and listen to the music and enjoy the evening with my sweetie, Thomas. I will let you know how our date goes!!

Sandra Denise

2010-08-12T14:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Sandra....I can't hardly believe that my little girl is 26 today. Sarah and I fixed her a huge gift basket and filled it with junk food, jewelry, diet coke, picture frames and other goodies that Sandra likes. I headed to her office about 8:30 this morning with this huge basket with mylar balloons in one hand and a cake in the other. She was so excited as I come through the door. Oh, Mommy she says.....I knew you would bring me surprises.....
I'm so proud of Sandra, she had become a beautiful young lady.
I remember when the nurse layed her beside me right after she was born. To this day it still bring tears to my eyes.She was so tiny to me, 7lbs, 6oz and 21".
Happy Birthday sweetie, Mommy loves you!!

Our weekend...

2010-08-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

Thomas and I had a wonderful anniversary weekend. Remember I told you that he was keeping it a surprise as to where he was taking me...well, I was getting ready to fix supper Friday evening and he came into the kitchen and said, "no need to start anything, we're going out." Ok I said, lets go. Well, we ended up at Lucille's. We had never eaten there before and it was very nice. I can remember Amy as a little girl. Sarah and her played volleyball and graduated together. Amy had stopped in the flower shop a few days earlier and picked up some centerpieces for a party and we got to catch up on things.
On Saturday Thomas worked on the hot tub house and I fixed supper and we had a relaxing evening at home. Sunday when I came home from church he was dressed and ready to take me to dinner again. We headed south and he pulled into the Longhorn Steakhouse. We had eaten there before and he remembered how much I liked it.
Mr. Romantic....that's my Thomas!!

17

2010-08-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

Today is a very special day.....17 years ago Thomas and I promised to love, honor and cherish till death do us part. We've been a couple for 24 years. It's had it's up and downs, but the ups out weight the downs. There's not a day gone by that I've not thanked the Lord for Thomas and the joy that he brings to me. We were talking last night about all the fun times we've shared and the times when the girls were home. Raising two girls..well that's another story.
We got a few things planned this weekend. We're going out for dinner but he said it was a secret as to were he was taking me. We'll work on the hot tub house a bit, piddle a bit and we'll celebrate a lot.
Happy Anniversary Thomas, love you bunches!!

64 years

2010-08-03T09:02:00.001-07:00

64 years ago today my Mom and Daddy promised to love, honor and cherish till death due them part. I stopped in this morning and visited with them before I came to work. They were smiling from ear to ear. I honored them Sunday at church and I didn't aim to make them tear up. But how many couples get to celebrate a milestone like 64 years. Too many times one partner passes on and leaves the other behind and they had so many years of joy ahead of them.
Is marriage easy? No, it isn't. Marriage is an everyday job. You have to work to make it great. You have to bend, zip your lip, smile, and remember how your heart felt the day you married your partner. If anyone boast that they have a perfect marriage...they are fooling you.
I've ask Mom on many occasions what is a perfect marriage. She says, "some marriages are close but none is perfect. We each have different views and each day brings a hill or a valley. You have to respect each other and sometimes just go with the flow. You must always remember the love that you have for each other and love will see you through". Mom also said, "I never once wanted to throw in the towel with your Daddy, we worked through our problems and our love was stronger when we came out of the valley".
My one prayer is that Thomas and I can live long enough to celebrate our 50th. That would put us in our 80's.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Daddy....I love you!!!

Weekend update....

2010-08-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Thomas and his dad picked up our new hot tub about noon on Saturday. Now we just have to build a platform. Thomas has these plans that he's been working on and I told him whatever he designs is fine with me. I just want him to hurry. We set on the porch Saturday afternoon and I told Thomas, "sure wish I could close my eyes and everything was finished and we were setting in it", he kissed me on the cheek and said me to!!
We went Friday evening and purchased eight ducks from the Maxie's at the FFA building. We got them settled in and I swear they have doubled in size since bringing them home. It won't be long till they are put in with the other ducks. My only worry is that Darrell and Darrell won't be so friendly.
Sunday we went back to the fair grounds and picked up my ribbons from the Family Arts Building. Got those placed in my ribbon scrap book. Now maybe we won't be driving to Brownstown so much in the next few weeks. At least until the watermelons are ready.
I guess that catches you up for the Bridges adventures over the weekend. Now it's on to a new week and many more adventures. Won't be long and Dillon will be calling to come and pick up our baby pigs!!

2010-07-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

It's been very busy around our home for the past few weeks. Been working in my gardens trying to keep them looking good through all this heat and humidity. Thomas has been piddling around the garage. He's been thinking about adding a lean to on the side and also talking about getting a hot tub. Oh yea...now he's taking!!! We are going tomorrow to look at one and we will see how it goes. He already has plans on how he wants it set up. It would be so great after a hard days work to relax in a hot tub. Would help out both of our backs and my left leg.
We've been to the fair a few times. I entered a few things in the Family Arts Building and received three 2nd place ribbons. I will add them to my ribbon book. I watched the Maxie kids show their pigs and they did pretty good. It's always a good time when I can spend time with Linda.
We have been extremely busy at the flower shop. We have four weddings this weekend. Heather has went out of town for the next few days. Her oldest son is playing in the state little league tourney. So it's up to me to deliver the weddings tomorrow. You just have to stay organized and keep your post it notes color coded!!
Last night was my floral demonstration at the fair. This was my eighth year. It was one of my biggest crowds. One lady told me there were 35 people in attendance. I designed some pretty neat arrangements. I was able to use some flowers from my gardens and the lady's loved that. A few of them were taking pictures of them. That makes me happy.
Tonight Thomas and I are going back to the fair and pick up some ducks from the FFA building and give them a good home. Linda has a nice selection this year.
Well, that's about all that's been going on around the Bridges household. Enjoy your weekend!!

Kendra's Pie Plate

2010-07-16T12:54:00.000-07:00

I had just got to work yesterday morning when my phone rings.....and my heart sank. My friend Kendra Smith had passed away. Kendra was one of a kind. She spoke her mind and if you didn't agree with her, well to bad. Kendra was also a giving person and when you were her friend she always had your back.
Back when Norma and Kendra had their last yard sale in Crothersville, Kendra had told to come and check out the kitchen stuff that they had. So I got up early and headed into town before going in to the flower shop. As I walked up my eye caught a pie plate. This was not an ordinary metal or glass dish. The one was nice..it was from the Roseville Pottery Company out of Ohio. They make the best baking dishes. I grabbed it up right away...Kendra yelled to Norma, "Sherry's got my pie plate, Lord knows she will use it more than I did". We all got a good laugh out of it.
Kendra was ask to show her and Lanny's new home in the Crothersville Holiday Home Show a few years back. She called me and ask if I would help her decorate. So I spent a couple evenings with her, Lanny and Norma. Her Aunt Betty was there one night baking cookies and I think we ate quite a few, but hey, we had to make sure they were good. That was fun times and a time that I will cherish.
As I have worked in the shop today quite a few people have came in and ordered flowers for Kendra. We've laughed, cried and hugged and laughed again at funny things that Kendra did and the things she would say.
I will miss Kendra...but I will always have my memories. I can only imagine the smile that her Daddy Sonny had, when Kendra walked through the gates of Heaven........

Vacation....

2010-07-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

Words can not express the 14 days that Thomas and I spent together on vacation. It was back to work this morning for the both of us. We had a hard time letting go of each other this morning. It was a very relaxing time for us. I think we both put on a few extra pounds. I would fix brunch each morning and we would set on the sun porch and enjoy the view of the lake. We went to the farmers market and purchased fresh fruit and vegetables on the weekends. I made blueberry waffles a couple of mornings and they were awesome.
We spent time at Cocoa Beach and took a behind the scenes tour of Kennedy Space Center. We had taken the girls when they were younger and did the regular tour. This tour we had to provide a photo ID and papers had to be filled out. There were certain places where you couldn't take pictures. The tour was over three hours long but was very interesting.
It was good to get away just the two of us and relax and not have the worries of everyday. We've already made plans for next year...already marked the calendar at work!!!

Vacation time....

2010-06-26T09:52:00.001-07:00

The bags are packed and are waiting by the door. The suntan lotion and flip flops are about all you need. Florida here we come.........
Later this evening we will load everything up and hit the road for a relaxing 14 days of vacation. Fun in the sun and lazy afternoons by the lake with a late night romantic boat ride. Dinner for two on the sun porch....what more could we ask for. Thomas and I have been looking forward to this day since the two foot of snow hit earlier this year. Just me an my sweetie..
Dillion is going to keep my yard mowed and looking perfect, my brother Gary is tending to my flower beds and Daddy is feeding the animals. Sarah and Sandra will look after the house and feed the birds that my BFF Shelley gave Thomas (you should see them Shelley, their colors are so spectacular). I will miss my girlfriends though, Shelley, Linda, Cindy, Jill and Heather.
I did have to work this morning, had to design a casket spray and took two other orders for casket sprays for the first of the week, but Heather can do them.
Well, you all take care and be nice to each other. Maybe by the time I get back folks will quit gripping about the festival....but .....just remember.... "I have already begun working on the 36th Festival"...hee hee

Lunch with Linda

2010-06-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon Linda and I had lunch at the Chocolate Spoon in Seymour. It was a nice relaxing atmosphere. Just a few other folks enjoying the afternoon. We got to catch up on what each other had been up to and we shared what our children were up to also. Even though we were at the Red, White & Blue Festival for 3 days, we didn't get to visit much. We made a few plans for the summer and she talked me into coming to her house tonight and helping her with some of her landscaping. Linda had purchased a few plants and needed a second opinion on where to place them. So after supper tonight it's off to the Maxie farm.
I enjoy landscaping, designing a layout for the yard. I designed a new area at the house this spring and planted Black-eyed-Susan. They are full of blossoms. I already had a few plants there, it just needed updated.
After I returned home from lunch I mowed the yard and added another perennial to my gardens, a Bee Balm plant. The leaves are more fragrance than the actual flower. Thomas said I am eventually going to run out of room....Nah, I said, "I will just make the gardens bigger".
I'll let you know how Linda's landscaping comes out. Maybe one day I will be equipped to show pictures. Wow...wouldn't that be great!!!

Darrell and Darrell

2010-06-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

A few years ago one of Thomas friends gave him two Mallard ducks. They both were males and they settled in with the other ducks and they all became friends. I named them as I do all the animals on our small farm. 'Darrell and Darrell" was the names I chose for them. Remember the Bob Newhart Show years ago, the one brother would always introduce his two brothers, "this is my brother Darrell and my other brother Darrell". These two ducks just remind me of those two brothers. They never go anywhere without each other. They will fly and waddle around from the pond to the pen. You can find them taking a nap under the Persimmon tree every afternoon.
Occasionally we let all eight of the others out. I keep them in the pen cause they like to dig in my flower beds. But if Darrell and Darrell are on the pond they come waddling as fast as their little webbed feet can carry them and peck the other ducks telling them that they are in charge and to behave their selves. One would think that Darrell and Darrell run the roost. Sometimes I have to get after them cause they get a little to bossy. I have to let Darrell and Darrell know who is really in charge.
One day Thomas let the others out and was really quiet opening the gate. Darrell and Darrell came waddling in a mad rush from the pond to see what was going on. It's comical to watch them all. Animals are just like humans if you really stop and think about it.
Oh, life on my small farm...there's no other place I would rather be.

RWB set a record...

2010-06-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

A heat record that is. When the parade stepped off Saturday at 4pm it was 96 with a heat index of 105. The crowd was down due to the heat. But I would rather folks stay home than come out and get sick or worse.
It was a great festival. I received many compliment's on the food, crafter's and opening ceremony. Opening ceremony was a little different as in years past. I never know for sure what I am going to say. I have a theme and a outline. The rest is just what ever the Lord puts on my heart.
My friend Kevin from Columbus came down with his Bag Pipe and folks really enjoyed his music.
My new little buddy Wyatt and I began to play with a small ball through out the day Saturday and I kept telling him don't run.....well, come evening he was chasing his ball and stumbled and bit through his bottom lip. We packed up him, Mom and Grandma and sent them to the ER. She called me bout 10:30pm and said he received stitches inside and outside of his lip. He was a little groggy but was going to be ok. He was a sweetie.
Bout 9:15pm, I received a call from the sheriff's office that a tornado had been spotted on Slab road in Ewing (Brownstown)and was headed our way and we had bout 30 minutes. I began informing folks and preparing my vendors. Thanks to Vaughn Isenhower for getting the Baptist Church basement opened. Mike Carothers (sheriff deputy) was a vendor and kept me informed also and said it was now just strong winds and heavy rains. Boy when the rain came, it came hard and cold. But those of us loading up our vehicles didn't mind to much cause it kinda felt good after being hot all day. My phone kept ringing and I wasn't about to open it in the rain and all the messages were telling me to take cover. I guess I'm like the ship's Captain I have to make sure all my folks are ok before I go and that makes me leave last.
But it was a good festival and I'm already working on 2011 and going to try some new events, that is if I can get people to help...there is just so much I can do..... most of these events don't require you to attend meetings. Heck, nobody shows up so why have meetings. We can just talk over the phone. Let me know how you would like to help with your community festival.

Number 35

2010-06-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

It's the 35th Red, White & Blue Festival and it's my 27th time to be part of it. For 27 years I have heard it all and been called it all. But I never let those who complain dampen my spirits. Some have tried their best to run me out of town, heck they had already taken over and was calling the shots. But little did they know that I don't give up that easy. Some have gripped, complained, whined and threw a fit that the festival is nothing more than nasty Carine folks. Well, those people need to look back at the many kids and adults that have benefited from festival funds. Why, some folks have spent many a year in a booth serving up food so that their child could have an awesome prom or have a chance to go on the senior trip. How soon they forget.....Look at the thousands of dollars that Phi Beta Psi has sent to Cancer Research, it's over $30,000.00.
But, having the festival is more than this. You have no ideal the pride that I feel when I stand on the stage during opening ceremony and honor our veterans. It's not about me nor you. It's the opportunity that we have as Americans to be able to hold a festival in our community and pause for a moment and say thank you to those Veterans who have been shot at, wounded or came home in a body bag fighting for their country so that we can have the freedom that we have.
So many folks have gotten caught up in the, "look at me" attitude that they just want the glory of saying, I'm in charge and I'm the boss. They have no ideal what being part of the Red, White & Blue Festival is all about.
Opening Ceremony is at 6:30pm on Thursday night. We are honoring those Veterans that are no longer with us. I invite you to bring a picture of your loved one and place it on the stage along with the others. Let's pause for a moment and simply say, "Thank You".

The Dove Awards...

2010-04-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

Diamond Rio was awarded the "Country album of the Year", last night at the Dove Awards.
The song, "The Reason" tells the story of why we are all here. Did you ever stop and ponder on why you are on this earth? What's your purpose in life? Are you living your life to the fullest or are you just putting in your time.
So many of us just go through life on a wing and a prayer. We tell our selves that we're doing good things and being kind to others and over a period of time we convince our selves of this.
I'm neither the judge nor the jury and don't want to be. But we will all answer to a higher being one day. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to hear their answer's when they are asked the questions-on their actions and words....
I'll now step down from my soap box...I had the pleasure of meeting Diamond Rio when I was the florist for Scott & Tammy's wedding. What a wonderful group of men. They have recorded many heartfelt songs over the years. Many country artist have recorded a gospel album and was glad that Diamond Rio had recorded one also. Putting your faith to music is hard for some but Diamond Rio let their life experiences speak for them.

Chicks...won't be long.....

2010-04-12T12:39:00.001-07:00

Thomas and I took the eggs out of the automatic turner Saturday evening. We checked the water level and the temperature. We can't open the lid now until we see the first chick. Even then we have to wait till it's completely out of the shell and it's feathers are completely dry. We have set up a box where they will stay for a couple of days. We have to be their Mother and teach them how to drink and eat. It's comical as you take their little head and dip their tiny beak in the water time and time again until they catch on. They are so cute at that age.
Wednesday is the big day.... day 21, we should be able to hear them chirping and the egg will begin to move a bit as they try to peck their way out. Will keep you posted.

Day 14

2010-04-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

The eggs are at day 14, only 7 to go before we anticipate the arrival of new little chicks. We have to keep a check on the temperature. As they develop and life begins to form the temperature increases. Won't be long now. I can remember years ago when Sandra was still living at home, we set up most of the night watching them hatch. You can hear them chirp inside the egg and can see the egg starting to crack as their little beak pecks away.
Yesterday was my day off and I spent the majority of it outside, mowing the lawn and working in my flower beds. I mowed around the pond and noticed quite a few bull frogs. Now that the weather is warmer you can hear them into the night. Trust me they are as big as they sound. Daddy has all the Martin boxes up except for a few gourds. The Martins came in last week. As each day passes more come. Last year we counted over 40 birds. That old saying, "there is no place like home" is so true for me. There is no place I would rather be.
Home Sweet Home.....

Cookie Classes....

2010-04-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening I helped Sarah make iced sugar cookies. She is like me, enjoys cooking especially baking sweets. Sarah is a good cook and enjoys being in her kitchen. She has made cookies since she was a little girl but sugar cookies takes more time. You have to prepare the dough and then wait 6 to 12 hours for it to chill. She had everything ready when I got there. She was excited, "lets get started, I have everything ready." I taught her the tricks of the trade and showed her some short cuts. After the third dozen came out of the oven I felt she had everything down pat. I headed home to prepare supper for Thomas. I called her later in the evening and she had baked 115 cookies, and had most of them iced. Thomas talked to her and informed her that at least a dozen was his and he would be down on Sunday to collect. They were good but I told her each time she makes them they will get better and better.
She took the majority of them to her boyfriend Pat and his son Jordan. She said when she pulled up to the house they both came out helped their self to a cookie even before she could get them packed inside. Sarah told them she had created monsters. So, now I guess Sarah has to bake the boys cookies instead of me. Thomas said, "now I don't have to share mine with the boys."
Baking cookies and sharing them is a good thing.

Friday's ramblings......

2010-04-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

It's exciting to walk through my gardens to see what flowers have popped up. Yesterday, I took Bristol and Lily for a early walk and then again in the afternoon and it was amazing how some flowers had peeked through the soil in just a few hours. I noticed in the afternoon that my Bleeding Hearts were almost ready to bloom. My Magnolia is in full bloom, it's gorgeous
Sarah called and we were talking about her gardens and she wondered if some of her flowers would have made it through the winter. We had to do some digging last fall in one of her gardens to repair some drain lines and she kept telling everyone, "now watch out for my flowers." She wanted Mom to come down and check on them.
So there we were on our knees moving soil with our fingers looking for life, sure enough they made it, their just a little slow. We discussed taking down her shutters and painting them. She had lost 2 due to the high winds last fall. So I guess that's a job for ole Mom on my day off.
The eggs are doing great, Thomas adjusted the temperature this morning, water level was fine. Just a few more weeks....
Sandra called just a bit ago and wanted to know if the Easter Bunny had her basket finished yet and I informed her that he did....but it was not Easter morning yet....she is 25 but she is still a little girl at heart.
Last night at our community church dinner we fried 50lbs of fish and feed 81 people. Everyone pitched in and worked hard. It's work but we have good fellowship. Sunday will be a early day. Sunrise service is at 6:30am with breakfast at 7. So if you all are up, come to Uniontown Baptist. The biscuits will be drenched with gravy, the eggs will be farm fresh and the bacon will be crisp all served with orange juice.

It's Friday.....

2010-03-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day, the Lord blessed me with another day. We had a good day at the shop. We were doing funeral work and wedding work. This is a big wedding and there were lots of flowers. I think from all we did they placed flowers in every nook and cranny they could find. Everyone is gone now and it's quiet in here. I remember the days in my shop after I put up the closed sign it was quiet and I would gather my thoughts and get organized for the next day.

The 32 eggs are doing great. The only thing we have to do now and for the next few days is keep check on the water level and the temperature. Now that spring is here the chickens are back to laying. Yesterday Daddy gathered 13 eggs and the day before that there were 11.

My girls, Sarah and Sandra called today and wanted to know if I was going to bake Easter cookies next week. Seems they are getting spoiled with all the iced sugar cookies I've been baking lately. Yes, girls their will be bunny shaped cookies in your Easter basket. Sandra has always called them, "Bunny-Hoppers." My girls look forward to getting a basket. Now days it has other items like hand cream, make-up, fuzzy footie's and other neat things. But it still has lots of candy also.

Well, I better get off of here and head home. Thomas had the day off and he will have supper almost ready by the time I get there. There's no place like home.........

32 eggs....

2010-03-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

Thomas and I put 32 eggs in the incubator last evening. This is not an easy task. There are so many things that have to be done each day for the eggs to hatch in 21 days. We have Rhode Island Reds now and they seem to be our favorite to raise. Most folks have no ideal where their eggs come from or what the chickens living conditions are or how they are raised or what conditions they live it. My chickens are happy and don't live in a 12x12 wire cage. They are free to graze in their pen and have plenty room to roam and scratch around. They are not given hormones to produce more eggs and we feed them ground corn. They are just country chickens raised the old fashion way!
So stay turned up updates.....

Shelley's Birthday....

2010-03-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Shelley's birthday....(she was 39) after work I went and took her some goodies. We (and Perry) had the best time setting around the kitchen table talking and catching up on things and just spending time with dear friends. Shelley and I don't get to spend as much time as we would like with each other but in the time of need we would drop everything for each other.

Good friends are hard to find, trust me I know. Good friends love you through the thick and thin, the good and the bad and the ups and downs of life . Even if sometimes you don't live up to their expectations they don't judge, they just keep loving you cause that's what being a true friend is all about.

I hope Shelley enjoyed her day and that she lives to be 100....Love ya Girlfriend!!!

Spring is on it's way....

2010-03-08T13:24:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was just beautiful. A little cool but the sun was shinning and that's something we haven't seen for quite some time. Thomas and I was out on Saturday afternoon enjoying the sun and we let our Doxies run and boy did they run. It was good to see them play. It was funny to see them run and then they would come running back to us for a hug and they were off again.
I walked around the yard and checked on my my Dogwood trees that I had transplanted from the flower shop in town. I worried about moving them back last fall, but I took the chance and moved them. We made sure they were setting just the way they did at the shop. I kept plenty of dirt around the roots. They had to be moved by a skid steer they were so heavy. I was so excited to see them budding out...wow that is just awesome!! All the trees and bushes are budding and my tulips and daffodils are popping up also. I can barley wait to get my hands in the soil and start mowing grass.

2010-02-22T08:43:00.000-08:00

Today is a special day...My Daddy turns 84. I baked his favorite cake-German Chocolate. I believe I have baked that cake for at least the past 30 years.
Sunday at church they sang, "Happy Birthday" to him and it tickled him and bring tears to my eyes. They ask him if he thought he could make it to 100 and he said, only the Lord knows that.
I am so blessed that I still have my parents. Many of my friends have lost one or both of their parents. My heart goes out to them. I will walk that path one day, but I sure hope that it's a long time away.
So Happy Birthday Daddy....from your little girl xoxox

Following Behind....

2010-02-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

I bet a few of you thought I had forgotten that I had a Blog...well, It's just been a busy time.
So here I am now and that is all that matters....
Following Behind...as been on my mind for the past few months. I can remember when I was a little girl following my Daddy everywhere. Those of you who really know me, know that I am a Daddy's girl. It seems only yesterday that I was where ever he was and doing chores with him around the barn. Taking care of the animals, watering the garden, helping with the lawn or riding in the car heading to Lacey's Hardware Store. If I decided to piddle and not keep up with Daddy, he would say, "come on little girl." Those were the best days. I was always two steps behind him. I couldn't wait for him to get off work wondering what we would be doing that evening.
Now days it's a different story. Daddy will be 84 on Monday, February 22. Daddy's step seems to be slowing down. But don't let that fool you....he still push mowes his yard, tends to a small garden and drives Mom to the store to do her trading on Mondays. He can out work any young man on any given day. He will call me up on my day off and say lets go to lunch or he wants to go run errands. I have noticed as we walk through the stores I'm the one who has to turn around and say, You coming Daddy? Instead of me following Daddy, he is following me....I never thought I would be two steps ahead of him. So I just slow down and enjoy walking at a slower pace. There's a lot to see at a slower pace especially when you are with your Daddy.

Will they or won't they?

2009-11-04T10:35:00.000-08:00

Was designing one of display windows this morning. As I was washing the window preparing it for a Christmas display people were watching me. So I figured I would wave at them. The first few people would just stare at me. I wondered why they wouldn't return the friendly gesture. Were they just mad at the world or just have to much on their mind. Or..were they wondering, why is that lady waving at me. The world has changed so much the last few years. Most people aren't as friendly as they use to be. Why? I know some folks who would rather walk down the next isle in a store just so they won't have to speak. I've done it....I just really don't want to hear all their problems or for some folks they are just plain mean and they have a poor attitude. I try to distance myself from them. Some folks think that we are the ones with the problems and they will make a long list of things they don't like when in reality that list is all about them.
Anyway, I kept waving and smiling and finally they caught on and began waving. Maybe I made them smile and it took their mind off of their problems for a moment. Everyone should try being a little kinder. You know it takes more muscles to frown then it does to produce a smile :)

My Day....

2009-10-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, October 22 was my Birthday....I enjoyed an awesome day, doing what I wanted to do. I headed to Brown County to enjoy a day of shopping and enjoying the beautiful fall day. I knew the leaves were in full color thanks to a couple of frost and all the rain that we've had. Every color was visible orange, yellow, amber, red, rust they were all vibrant and with every bend in the road was like driving through a painted portrait.
I enjoyed lunch out on the patio fighting the yellow jackets, seemed they like my orange soda too. But I didn't mind, "It was my Birthday". I stopped in at one shop and the cashier ask how my day was and I informed her it was a special day. She, the owner said it was her birthday too. We gave each other a high five and she gave me 10% off my purchase. I stopped in at my brother Gary's shop and visited with him. Seems he has a opportunity to move to a bigger shop on one of the main streets. He ask me to go check it out. I was excited for him. Anyone who owns a business knows it's all about location. Finally it was time to head home. I'm making plans to go back in a few weeks and take in the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. I will go on a weekend when Thomas is off so that he can go with me.

enjoying a day in my kitchen...

2009-10-10T07:22:00.001-07:00

In Uniontown we had one beautiful day this week and it accrued on my day off. One of my favorite things to do is baking and trying new recipes. I had a list of things that needed to be done in my gardens to get them ready for winter. But with the cooler weather I've been craving Persimmon Pudding. So I gathered all the ingredients and began.
Thomas and I enjoy heading out to our favorite spots in the township and gather the persimmons. But I'm the one who prepares the pulp. I don't mind. I remember my Mamaw Brumett with her apron on preparing a pudding. The smell Persimmon Pudding filled the kitchen ....I couldn't wait till it was done. I decided to also bake a Pumpkin Pie. Now Thomas will eat both but if he had to choose it would be the pie.
I did get some work done in my gardens and I even got the grass mowed. As I finished cleaning the kitchen after supper I sliced the Pumpkin Pie and placed a dab of Cool Whip on top and surprised Thomas!!

Fall is in the air......

2009-10-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

Early Sunday morning I headed out for a Floral Convention meeting in Frankfort, Kentucky. It was an awesome drive. The morning was crisp and the dew drops were glistening like diamonds. The drive was just what I needed after all the funeral work I did this past week.
The trees were still wet with dew and when you rounded the bend in the road it was breath
taking. As I rounded one curve there in the road way were two young deer. Not quite for sure they could make it up the steep hill, the traffic stopped while they backed up and made a run for it. With the window down a bit, just the smell of the cool air and just a hint of pine from the mountains made this ole county girl perk right up. The only thing that could have made it better was to have been about 60 more miles down the road to where Daddy was raised to see the fog coming out of the mountains.
The meeting went great and all the designers are lined up. Lunch was a full buffet with shrimp, my favorite. The Apple Cobbler just needed a scoop of ice cream!!

Emotions......

2009-10-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

It has been one of those weeks...non stop- phone ringing off the wall, customers coming in by the car loads. I made four casket sprays in 3 days. One was for a stillborn baby girl. That pulls on the heart strings. Brings back memories of my little girl. I met with the parents and I just cried with them. After they left you pull your self together and began preparing the flowers. I made sure this spray got extra special attention. All of my casket sprays are designed with love, but this one was special. Being a florist is a wonderful profession. Some days every human emotion is felt. From the jubilant bride, an excited man who gets to send flowers to his wife for their first anniversary or a new grandma telling us all about her first grandbaby. Then your emotions do a complete turn around when a family comes thru the door heart broken due to a loss of a family member. But you take in all in and at the end of the day your thankful that you could be there for them and maybe just one word was spoken that they can find comforting.

time for a breather....

2009-09-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Wow...this morning has be super busy. I did find the time to take a short break and eat my lunch and to check my e-mails. Was even able to walk out side and got a bit of fresh air.
I have already meet with two family's and got their flower order processed. Seems the local funeral home in Seymour is full. Well, at least if you are reading my blog you didn't make the list!!!!
Yesterday was my day off and I went furniture shopping. I'm in the market for a new couch. Thomas and I have a sectional and I am ready to get rid of it. They take up to much room.
At my flower shop I had a 4 foot Old World Santa and I had been keeping it at the store for safe keeping. I didn't want to bring it home for the fear of my Doxies picking at him. I ask my father-in-law if he could build me a curio cabinet for it. Well, I didn't even think that it had to bigger than Santa....so now I have to find space for it. So that's why I'm getting rid of my sectional. But that's OK, I would like a new couch anyhow.
Well, I have answered the phone twice while trying to blog, so I will get back to work.
Enjoy this rainy day...

Thank goodness for Fridays....

2009-09-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to get home tonight-and stay there!! I have had something every evening this week. Monday was Ladies Aid at church. Tuesday was the Plan Commission meeting in Brownstown. Wednesday was back at church for another meeting. Thursday was back at church again, serving our community meal.
I was off Thursday and was in the kitchen most of the day. The church served pork loin's and I baked 62 loins. They smelled so good!! I made my own sauce and received many compliments. I also made a peanut butter pie and baked a chocolate cake. Needless to say the peanut butter pie was gone in no time. Thanks to my daughter Sarah for her awesome recipe.
So tonight I am going to lay on the couch and watch TV with Thomas. I will have to share the couch with Lily and Bristol --but hey that is A-OK with me.
Sunday is a big day at my church. We celebrate 150 years. Wow...150 years of serving the Lord. That's a big milestone. We have been celebrating all summer with community activities. Sunday we'll have an all day celebration ending about 4pm. I told my girlfriends at church that I am bringing my flip-flops for some comfort, just in case. They said that was a great ideal as long as we could color coordinate with our outfits!!!

It's been way to long....

2009-09-09T12:33:00.000-07:00

I believe the last time I wrote in my blog was April. That seems like ages ago. I was busy all spring and summer. I say summer cause it's almost over. So much has happend since then.
Sarah has started a new chapter in her life. I remember twenty some years ago I was starting a new chapter also. But, I had to little girls-one was still in diapers. Sarah's only worry is to make sure she has plenty doggy treats handy.
I lost my best bud last week. He lost his battle with cancer. Stan delivered flowers for me for almost ten years. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do around the shop. From hanging christmas lights, reparing things and making shelves. Then there were the days when Daddy and him would set around and solve the worlds problems. Some days I think that if they went to Washington and Congress would just let them have their way, we wouldn't be in the mess that we are today. I will miss Stan more than you can imagine. But I will always have my "Memories."
I'll do better with keeping my blog updated.........

Could it be....

2009-04-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

Could it be that I have planted to many White Pine trees. Spread to much mulch, worked way to much in my flower beds......now I'm walking with a cane and spending time at the chiropractor. Am I just getting old......
I've been asking my self that question the past few days. Maybe I need to hire a Gardner. Might have to place an ad in the local paper if this keeps up!!!

Transplanting.....

2009-04-05T17:50:00.000-07:00

I spent the better part of Sunday afternoon transplanting flowers. For the last few weeks I've been waiting for my perennials at the store to come up so that I can transplant them to my gardens at home. When I returned home from church the weather was so pretty and I knew that rain was on it's way for late afternoon, so I hurried. With shovel and gloves in hand I believe I dug up almost 15 assorted plants. My Columbine's were coming up everywhere so I gave Sarah a few for her gardens.
If any of you remember Tommy use to have a Pecan tree in front of the tavern. Some of the older folks in town have told him that it was almost 80 years old before he had it cut down. So over the past few years I have been trying to get starts off of it as they come up from seed. I have done some trial and error planting over the years and this year I think they are finally going to make it. I've transplanted five so far and I'm keeping my fingers crossed and with a little luck they will all make it. I guess you could say I've been putting my Indiana Master Gardner degree to use!! I'll keep you posted on the progress.

My Little Buddy

2009-03-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

As most of you know Thomas and I have five, yes five little doxies...these little people have become our kids. We started with Bristol and he makes sure that the rest of the clan knows that he is #1. Then came Lily Belle, she was so tiny when we bring her home only four pounds. She quickly became my little girl following me everywhere. Then came the puppies. Four of them, we were able to sell one but just couldn't part with the other three. BB, Sgt. Major Bogie and Annie. BB has become my little buddy. He will lay at my feet where ever I am. When I go shower he sets at the door. When I'm in the kitchen he lays on the rug and waits for me to sneak him a bite. When I venture into my office he is not satisfied till he's in my lap. There he will set or lay for as long as I'm at my desk. He is in my lap now sound asleep. Funny how people get attached to their dogs. Some days when the world is a cruel place and our friends seem to have forgotten about us, all we need to do is go home and at the door we will find unconditional love. All they see is love.....their owner is home and no matter what the problems they just seem to falter away. We are welcomed home with excitement and kisses.

70 square miles....

2009-03-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

My friend Cindy and her husband Marty have been in Aruba for the last few days. Each day she sends me an update of their fun in the sun!!!
She explains in great detail how the palm trees sway in the cool breezes of the island, the turquoise water and the white sand. The beautiful sunsets and the latest umbrella drink.
Today they were renting a jeep and driving around the island. Aruba is 70 square miles.Cindy states that with each turn of the road the view just gets better and better. Post card perfect she puts it.
I emailed her back and gave her great detail of how it reached 72 degrees in Uniontown today and the wind was out the the southeast with 18 mile wind gust. Now all I need is for my pond water to be turquoise.....

Update....

2009-03-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Talked with my buddy and well it's back for more chemo. The doctor decided to change things for a bit. Now he's taking chemo every day to see how this does. It just breaks my heart to see him suffer. He told me the chemo really makes him sick. It's all that I can do not to cry when we talk. I want him well, I want my ole buddy back. I need to pick on him and give him a hard time and we need to have our weekly talks about how crazy republicans are. (he like me is a born democrat) I will never give up hope, I promised him that I would hang in there with him and be a shoulder for him. I will keep the faith for both of us even when he is to weak to be strong......

Birthday Girl....

2009-03-16T19:16:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow March 17 is my BFF Shelley's birthday......
If I was rich I would do what Oprah does for her best friends. I'd fuel up my jet, invite some of our friends and we would party on an island in the Caribbean for a week!!! Money would be no object and the whole island would be ours...fun in the sun celebrating Shelley's birthday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHELLEY
See ya tomorrow!!

The watch...

2009-03-15T10:31:00.000-07:00

Each morning I spend a few minutes to read the news on some of my favorite sites. Then in the evening I check to see how the day has gone through out America. I find it amusing how some of the media are fascinated with what Michelle chooses to wear for the day. Just the other day they were talking about her arms....how toned they were. Then there was a poll of the top 10 outfits that she had worn over the past 50 days.
Today, I ran across a site where you can order the same watch that Obama wears. It's a Jorg Gray 6500 Chronograph, he received his for his 46th birthday. You can own one today for a mere $325.00. It's a commemorative edition and comes with individualize serial number and is engraved with his name and the 44th president on the back. Now, don't you all rush and order one. I don't think I will be ordering Thomas one. He has his own special watch that I purchased for him when we were first married. His is engraved on the back also.
I hope the media don't get to personal...I really don't want to know where Michelle buys her undies. But it could cause a stir in the malls with everyone wanting the came kind and color!! I can read it now-- with the decline in auto sales there is one bright spot.....pantie sales are up!!!

Now we wait.....

2009-03-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

Got my daily call from my buddy. He's done with the first round of radiation and chemo. Now we wait......Monday he goes in for blood work to see if the treatments have slowed the growth of the cancer. He sounded relieved that it was over for a few days. Maybe he can enjoy a few normal days. But with living with cancer, days are never normal. It's the not knowing that will drive you crazy. So keep him in your prayers.....

Friday Night Buffet

2009-03-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

Thomas and I had supper at the Pines Friday night and man was it awesome. We didn't care to wait on an empty table for about 15 minutes, the wait was worth it. The BBQ chicken was so tender and savory. I've never been a fan of ribs, but Mike's were the best. Maybe that's why I have never cared much for them. Thomas even made the comment, "I thought you didn't like ribs". As we were leaving about 8pm there were still people waiting on a table.
I visited with Mike before leaving to thank him for a great supper. As a business owner I understand why Mike is changing things around. You have to be flexible, you have to step out side of the box. With the economy in the shape that it's in you have to be able to take a step back and look at all sides of your business. Come up with new ideals and try your best to stay afloat. Mike has done his homework.
There is only one change that I would have made Friday night.......Brent should have worked the carving table in his, Ball State shirt!!!!

Daily Phone Call

2009-03-05T17:46:00.000-08:00

Gosh, it's been a while since I've posted....
I start each day awaiting a phone call from my buddy. Wondering how he is doing today. Taking radiation each day and chemo a couple days will weaken the body quickly. His voice is weak but his spirit is amazing. He's telling me to be strong all the while I give him his daily pep talk.
I hate cancer. In comes in like a thief in the night and steals you away. I live with cancer everyday, how dare it rob me of someone I love. For those of you that have lost loved one's to this evil disease you know my heartache. Keeping praying.........

Pray

2009-02-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

Prayer is a powerful thing. I seen a sign once that read, "When all else fails, Pray" I believe in prayer and I believe in the healing power of prayer. So that is why I write tonight.
I received a call today that a very dear friend who holds a special place in my heart was diagnosed with cancer. He doesn't deserve this. He has a heart of gold and he's a remarkable person.
Cancer is a cruel disease, who shows mercy for no one. It's evil.
So please lift my friend up in prayer. Pray that God will give him strength to fight, pray that God will lay his hand on him and heal his body. Please keep him in your prayers in the coming weeks.......

Valentines Day 2009

2009-02-15T09:42:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day was fun this year....especially since I was working for someone else!! It was so enjoyable, no 80 hour work week, no pulling an all niter . No stress, just doing what I love--designing flowers. Heather did a great job organizing and doing the math on ordering how many flowers were needed with the economy and money being tight. We pretty much had a empty cooler by Saturday afternoon. Each of us girls brought in food and we ended up with enough to feed an army. We weren't to worried about the calories.
I was glad to see some of my old customers stopping in and ordering and those who called in with a delivery order. I get excited when I get to talk to my customers.
Sarah my daughter worked on Friday. Sarah grew up in the shop and she pretty much knows everything there is to know about running a floral shop. It didn't take her long and she was working beside me designing arrangements. It was just like old times.

Convention Details

2009-02-04T19:35:00.000-08:00

Things are getting back to normal around home. I now have time to update you on the great things at convention. WOW...is just one word to describe all the amazing floral designs. There were a lot of out-of-the-box designs. All the designers were great, I did pick up a few new ideals and I even taught one of them a new trick of keeping hydrangeas lasting longer. I gave her a hug and said, "I can't believe that I'm teaching you something", we both had a good laugh. Deborah is from Florida and been in the business for over 25 years. I worked with her a few years back and it was good to spend some time with her again.
Tim from South Carolina taught me a few tricks for making Prom corsages. He was a hoot. Tim and I also had a good time at the Gala dancing to, "Ride Sally Ride."
One of the highlights of the convention was the, "Hats for Hope." Each year all floral designers are encouraged to design a Derby Hat that will be auctioned off in Louisville later this spring. All proceeds are donated to the American Cancer Society. So far "Hats for Hope" has donated over $160,000.00 for Cancer research. This year we had a total of 28 hats. Some of the hats last year bring in over $400.00 each. These are not your every day run of the mill hats. These are high class designs and are considered to be top of the line. It makes me proud that Kentucky Florist Association volunteers for such a needy organization. Cancer research needs every penny they can get to find a cure for this ugly disease that shows no mercy.
I'm all ready looking forward to convention 2010!!

Convention Time!

2009-01-29T21:14:00.000-08:00

This weekend is the Kentucky Florist Convention. Tomorrow I will be heading to Frankfort for the weekend. I always look forward to convention for it's a time of seeing old friends and learning new designs. Again this year I will be assisting in the design room. We have designers flying in from Florida, South Carolina, Pennsylvania and Georgia. The weather is about the same in Frankfort as here at home--ice and snow. I plan on leaving the burg early afternoon to make my way down. I'm taking some of my props from the store and we'll use for them for the stage lay out. The stage must ready for the first design show at 9:30 Saturday morning. I'll let you know how things went the first of the week...

Doxies and snow.....

2009-01-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

Thomas and I let our Dachshunds out this evening for a few minutes just to get some fresh air. Now you have to remember that Doxies have very short legs and their belly is only inches from the ground. Thomas sounds those magic words. Everybody makes a mad dash to the door with excitement. And their off.......wait a minute.... they all turn and look at us with such sad eyes. They can't get their little legs high enough to walk through the snow. We can't help but laugh. B-B is very clever, he looks around and figures out that if you leap like a deer you can maneuver through the snow.He runs back and tries to show the rest of them how to leap.
After a couple tries they catch on. We let them have fun for a few more minutes and we head back to the porch.
**Always remember when you let your pet out wipe off those belly's and feet. Keep an eye on where they roam. Salt from the driveways and walks can irritate their feet.

The B.A.T. Lady

2009-01-25T09:53:00.001-08:00

Friday evening I stopped into, "Arbys" to pick up a couple of sandwiches for Thomas and I. A young man took my order and as he was giving my change back he stated that he knew me. He ask aren't you,"The Bat Lady", I smiled, why yes I am. He said, I'm one of your BAT kids. I ask which class he was in. I'm beginning my 15th class and after all these years it's sometimes hard to remember all of them. His name was Andrew and he's now 16. He no longer attends Crothersville Schools but is home schooled. He said he still has his BAT book and remembers most of the things that I taught him about First Aid. We talked a bit longer and I wished him well.
For those of you wondering what's BAT, it stands for Basic Aid Training. It's a program offered through the Red Cross to all fourth graders in Jackson County. My daughter Sandra and her class mates were my first class. I did a little math and I figure I've taught over 500 children in those 15 years. Being known as "The Bat Lady" it's a good thing!!

I'm not comfortable yet!

2009-01-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

I have to admit--it's a little scary to do normal things on my computer. I have to give Shelley a call tomorrow to make sure I'm where I'm suppose to be with all my downloads. As I said in my post the other day, it has been a wild ride. I just haven't been myself this week. Too much on my plate and stress is not healthy!!
As most of you know I work part time at, "Jubilee" flower shop in Seymour. Thursday after all the orders were filled, Heather and I put up the Valentine's Day displays. Heather did a awesome job with the window displays. You will have to drive by and check them out. I was so glad to put my mind on other things and not stress over computer problems.
In the floral business, Valentine's Day is my favorite holiday.
One of my delivery drivers called me the other day and ask what he was suppose to do on Feb. 14, I laughed.....he had been my driver for over 10 years. I told him that he just might have to drive to "Jubilee" and take some orders back to Crothersville. We reminisced about the good times at the shop and I have to say it bring a tear to my eye.

losing my mind........

2009-01-07T20:20:00.000-08:00

It's been a wild ride for the last few days.......there are evil forces out in space and they just wait for people who mess up other peoples computer. From now on my computer is off limits!!!! I'll hurt anyone who comes within 10 feet of my computer--enough said.
If I had a million dollars I'd pay Shelley and Perry for saving my computer. Thank you and a hug- is not enough. Even though I was setting in the floor putting up Hail Mary's they get the majority of the credit.
Understanding computers is not my thing. I am a florist. We were ready to hand it to Rumpke, but Shelley said let's try one more thing, and here I set in my office on my computer.
Thank you Shelley and Perry, I love you both....but you already knew that!

just another day....

2009-01-03T11:31:00.000-08:00

The last few days I've been very busy with funerals and today is no exception. My day started at 7am and I begin designing another casket spray, then I finished up a wedding for this evening. I needed to wrap the bouquet stems and double check all the corsages. I had made an agenda for the day as to when everything was to be done and delivered. I even penciled in stopping at Steak & Shake for a "White Chocolate Milk Shake". I figured I would treat my self for getting everything done and delivered on time. I know my hips didn't appreciate it, but--oh, well....it sure was tasty. The life of a florist...prepare flowers for a sad occasion and then finish with flowers for a joyous occasion. I'll relax this evening at the wedding/reception and enjoy good conservation with my friends

2009

2008-12-31T18:00:00.000-08:00

It's out with the old...and in with the new.
Some say you get to start all over...wipe the slate clean. Some folks get excited cause they get to write in their new Day Planner. As you begin 2009 remember your family and your friends their what's important. 2009 will bring trials and tribulations but keep your faith, say your prayers before your feet hit the floor in the morning and always tell those that you care about that you love them....May the new year bring you many of God's blessings.

Oh, the feeling.....

2008-12-29T17:13:00.000-08:00

Annie and I headed out the door this morning about 7:30. I was explaining to her that she won't feel a thing till this evening when the medicine wears off. You see Annie had some female matters that needed to be taken care of. Living in a house with three males, there is no place to hid.....
As we entered through the door the Vet Tech greeted Annie with a rub on her back and talked about how much she had grown. Annie was not interested in anything she had to say. Annie just tucked her head in under my jacket as if to ignore her hoping she would go away.
We talked for a few more minutes and I was given instructions on when to return and what to expect. I gave Annie a kiss on the nose and told her to be a big girl and that I would be back later in the afternoon to get her. I gently handed her to the Tech and Annie gave me that look, Please, don't leave me......
I arrived back about 4:30 and was told that she did great and had been sleeping on and off all afternoon. We went over the instructions again and she said, "I'll get Annie for you--she came back empty handed! Seems Annie wanted nothing to do with her and has become very frightened, would I like to come back and pick her up. I rounded the corner and there she was all curled up in the corner of her pen scared to death....I called to her, Annie...sweetie, it's momma, it's ok now were going home. Oh, the feeling...she looked at me and it warmed my heart. That's my mamma's voice--Annie was a happy little girl, she had been surrounded by strangers and then she heard my voice and felt my touch.
Those of you who love your dogs as I do mine know the feeling I'm talking about.....
.....the one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog.

The New Year?

2008-12-27T14:36:00.000-08:00

There are just a few days left in 2008 and with that in mind what are your plans for 2009?
Did you live up to all of your plans in 2008? Are you even going to make a list of goals for 2009?
I'm not talking about losing weight or trying to save more money. I'm talking about YOU...what are "you" going to do about yourself. I see so many people who frown on life. Who bitch about anything and everything. They can't find a positive thing to say about anyone or anything. Always a negative person. I can't imagine waking up each day thinking negative thoughts. You can't have a conservation with them cause of their attitude. I find myself not wanting to be around them. I want to be around people who love life and are excited about their day. Maybe I'm getting older, and yes I know I'm changing. I see things differently than I did a few years ago. Now don't get me wrong--I'm no expert and I don't hold a Ph. D in Psychology. But look in the mirror...are you satisfied with your self. Michael Jackson had a song about the man in the mirror.
Are you happy with how you live each day. Would you want to be your friend?
Life is short...and we are only on this earth for an allotted time. Make sure you are the best that you can be. In 2009 work at being a better person, work on that attitude....not everybody is your enemy. Wake up each day thinking positive. You might be surprised how good life can be!!

Merry Christmas....

2008-12-24T16:50:00.000-08:00

The stocking were hung from the chimney with care in hopes that St.Nicholas soon would be there.....
May the true meaning of Christmas fill your home with warmth....
Merry Christmas from,
Thomas, Sherry, Bristol, Lily, Sgt. Major Bogie, BB and Annie

Holiday Baking...

2008-12-23T18:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I think I'm done...I think! I've baked goodies for the last two days. My puppies love it, they all set at my feet just waiting for a sugar cookie to drop. It amazes Thomas when he walks into the kitchen to see them all lined up in a circle around me patiently setting all looking up at me. Maybe Santa will bring me a camera and I can take pictures for you.
Tomorrow I will make my rounds to deliver my cookie goodie boxes. The weather man says the ice will be melted my morning. Others I will try to give them a call and wish them a Merry Christmas.
We are all too busy this time of year and time gets away from us and before you know it Christmas is over.

Mom's Fruit Cake

2008-12-11T18:58:00.000-08:00

It just wouldn't be Christmas to me if I didn't make my Mom's Fruit Cake. Now, not everyone likes Fruit Cake....I must admit you have to acquire a taste for them.
Ever since I was seven or eight I would always help Mom in the kitchen when she was making her cakes. The recipe calls for ingredients that you normally don't keep on hand. So I got to make the list of ingredients needed. I never could figure out how they made those green cherry's. Mom use to tell me, "they make them just for fruit cakes." That's good cause I just can't imagine finding one on my ice cream sundae.
There are a couple steps in preparing the batter, but it's not as hard as you would think. It does take two hours for it to bake. But the hard part is wrapping and storing it for a couple of weeks. It needs to age to bring out the moisture and that incredible taste.
Mine have been wrapped for five days now. I unwrapped one awhile ago and cut a small slice. The aroma...mmmm and the flavor....oh, my.....
these are going to be good. In another week they will even be better.
Give me a call, I will bring you a slice over!!

Precious stories...

2008-12-01T19:17:00.000-08:00

With both of my parents in their early 80's I try to visit them every day. Now that I moved my floral business to my home I have more time to spend with them. The other afternoon Daddy and I was in his shop. Daddy had his feet propped up relaxing in his favorite chair and I was holding down the swing. I ask him about how him and Mom met each other. Daddy said the first time he laid eye's on her his heart melted. "Prettiest girl in town" he said with a big grin.He begin to fill me in on the first few months they were dating. He said one evening after about six months of dating he popped the question...He ask her if she would like to get married. Mom said, "Nope, I'm going to see the world, ask me when I get back." Daddy said ok. He walked Mom to her home on Jackson Street. She ask him if he would be coming by her house tomorrow. Daddy informed her if she wasn't ready to get married there was no need of him coming back around. She just looked at him and said, Well, Ok. A few days later after not hearing from Daddy. Mom set down and wrote him a letter. She sent it to Daddy via his sister. In the letter Mom told Daddy how much she adored him and she could never find another good man like him no matter where she went in this world. Three weeks later they were married. Daddy said he would give anything if he still had that letter.
I would too, letters like these are precious memories of our past.
To set and watch Daddy's eye's light up telling me the story of how him and Mom fell in love is a day that I will cherish. After 62 years of marriage they still hold hands.

Everyday Blessings

2008-11-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving......a time to reflect on the things in life that you have been blessed with.
I had a lady come into the store a few years back that stated, "everyday that her feet hit the floor was Thanksgiving." We enjoyed a good laugh and we talked about our blessings.
Tomorrow would be a good time to set down and make a list of all the things that you have been blessed with. You might be surprised how long your list is!

Sarah Danielle.....

2008-11-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

Wednesday November 19 my Sarah turned, "30". Sarah was born on a Sunday at 5:21 in the evening. She weighed 5lbs and 120z. and was 18 inches long. She had black hair. To me she was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. All I wanted to do was to hold her close and look at her.
I spent some time with Sarah this morning and what a beautiful lady she has become. She was so excited to see me, when she opened the door her comments were, Yes, my birthday cake......Even when Sarah was at Ball State she received a birthday cake. BSU has a program where they would deliver everything to her dorm, cake, plates, napkins and even balloons.
There are no words for how proud I am of Sarah. She brings so much joy to my life. Happy Birthday Sarah!!

Got a pretty handy husband.....

2008-11-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

Was reading my friend Dan's blog the other evening and seen there was a survey for men titled, "100 things every man should know how to do."
So I had Thomas come into the office and take the test.
Now Thomas is very handy and can pretty much fix anything. If he can't fix it he fiddles with it, thinks about another way to fix it. When he was finished, I tallied up his numbers.........."86"
Wow!! I got a pretty handy husband........

November 11

2008-11-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

Today is the eleventh month, the eleventh day and at eleven o'clock this morning you should have taken a moment to reflect and remember all the veterans.
To my Daddy, United States Navy- stationed on the USS Stidka....
Daddy was out in the South Pacific when the admiral came on the loud speaker and said, "Men, I have just received word that the Japanese have just bombed Pearl Harbor and we are heading to the Island for assistance."
To Daddy and all the Veterans, I thank your for your valiant service

My thoughts....

2008-11-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

For the past month I've read opinion polls, blogs from the associated press, numerous articles, blogs of my florist friends and my close friends.
They all have different opinions on who should be elected president. Now most of you know that I was born a Democrat. But I have been one to jump the fence a time or two. There were times I voted for the person and not along party lines.
I have come to the conclusion where some folks just couldn't bring their self to vote for a black man.....I don't really care what color the person is.
I was raised to look past the color of a mans skin. I don't care if Obama is a little green man from mars. If he has the ability to lead this country out of the mess that we're in, then I will support him. From what I've read, he thinks things through, he's not hot headed, doesn't rush to a decision and he doesn't define himself as a black candidate, but as a United States citizen.
Is the road going to be easy, No...look back in history--to Abraham Lincoln at his road blocks, to FDR who had the reins during the depression and just a few years back George Bush had to deal with 9/11.
Being president is not an easy 9 to 5 job.
I've read John McCain book, "Faith of my Fathers". He's truly an American Hero. I have the utmost respect for him for his courage during the Vietnam War. Being held as a POW for over five years. Could he lead our country out of this pit that we are in? Many labeled him a Bush man...
this country can't go through another four more years.
In September the unemployment rate was 6.1, October it was 6.5. Just the other day GM was wondering if the government could bail them out if they continue in a downward spiral. Where does it end?
Now to Michelle's wardrobe.....we all have our own dress codes. She doesn't seem to be the type who spends $2500 for a nice suit and that's just the cost of the jacket and not the skirt. She told Jay Leno that she shops at J. Crew. I have spent enough money at J.Crew for my daughters that they should give me my own stock. I see nothing wrong with what she wears. I think they all looked great on Tuesday night. I'm sure the news media will keep us posted on all her outfits...
These are just my opinions, just like you have your opinion...that's one of the great things about living in the United States of America!

Pulling out your winter coat...

2008-10-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

I pulled out my winter coat and hung it on the coat rack buy the back door. Now keep in mind that this is the coat that I do my feeding in. On occasion you might find me wearing it to the Dollar Store or just to run errands. It's a nice coat with a hood. I bought it at a yard sale a few years back for $5. Sunday afternoon when it was time to go feed, I grabbed it and headed out the door. I reached my hand in the pocket......and what was in there....four one dollar bills and 39 cents. Whoopee I hollered Thomas looked and said are you OK? Sure am..I just found money!!!
You know that feeling -how many times have you found money hidden in pockets after a long period of time. Maybe just to find a dollar but hey, it's still exciting. I can't wait till I put on the rest of my coats, wonder what's in those pockets. I'm not going to look, I want to be surprised.

preparing for winter...

2008-10-28T18:07:00.001-07:00

It's getting to feel like winter. Daddy and I worked outside a little today. Getting the animals all ready for winter. I took straw and made new nest for the chickens. In the summer months I just use shavings. Seems they too are feeling the chill. They aren't laying as many eggs as usual. I told them they better get on the ball cause it ain't gonna get any warmer!!!
Daddy was commenting on the trees how they are finally turning colors. Out in our neck of the woods the trees are ablaze with burnt orange, bright yellow and burgundy. But with the heavy frost that we've been getting they won't last long.
I loaded up my Airplane plant today. I've had it in the shop for over eight years. There wasn't any room at home for it so now it has a new home at the schools Greenhouse . I told Linda to take very good care of it. I also left a few other plants that were outside in my pots. The kids can take cuttings from them and sell them in the spring.
I made an Apple Crisp for dessert this evening and I think it's almost done......

been busy

2008-10-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened since the other day when I was on here. For one I had a birthday.....thanks to all my friends who called and sent me cards. That was just awesome!!
I've been visiting the chiropractor for the last few days. I'm getting better though. Have to be there in the morning also and then we will see how things are.
I'm glad to see the rain. It started raining at my house about 4:30 this morning. We do need the rain but I'm sure the farmers would rather be in the fields trying to finish up.
I'm going to spend the afternoon teaching a friend about floral designing. She has owned a shop for a couple of years with just silks and misc. items and now has a demand for fresh arrangements. So this afternoon will be fun. You know me anytime I get to surround myself with flowers is as Martha says, "It's a good thing"

in the early morning

2008-10-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

It was still dark when I pulled into the parking lot of the flower market in Louisville this morning. As I approached the door you could smell the fragrance of fresh flowers. As you first enter the building you are a bit overcome as to which direction to go first. Roses had arrived during the night from Ecuador. The array of colors and the scent is just amazing.
But, I remember that I have a list and I have to stay within my budget.
These days I don't keep a lot of fresh on hand. Just the basics.
As I make my way back across the Kennedy Bridge it's still dark and I'm thankful that I got an early start and I'm not stuck in the traffic jam. I put the truck on cruise, find me a good radio station with some morning news and head my way back to Uniontown.

Sarah's Rottweiler

2008-10-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

My oldest daughter Sarah has three Rottweiler's, three of the biggest babies. They have a ferocious bark but deep down they are Sarah's babies. It all started back when Sarah was at Ball State. Sarah would come home on weekends and play with my Rottie, "Ruger." In her neighborhood there had been a lot of burglaries. She said she needed a vicious dog for protection and besides she just loves Rotties. So when she came home a few weeks later a puppy was waiting on her with a big red bow around his neck. She named him, "Ace." Ace was known as the Rottie of Ball State for his many walks on campus. He would weight in at about 180lbs. Ace did scare away a man trying to break into the house one night.....Go Ace!!!! Sarah and Ace would attend agility and obedience class once a week and he would mind better than some kids. Then she rescued Lizzy from a terrible family and that made her two. So Ace and Lizzy became parents. Sarah kept one puppy which made her three Rotties. About six months after selling one of the puppy's she got a call that one of the pups was locked in a house cause the owner had been arrested and placed in jail and everyone was afraid to go into the house. So what do you think Sarah does.........she walks in the door picks up the pup and takes her home. Bless her heart--the man had not been kind to her. Sarah took her home gave her a bath and a good warm meal and named her Emma.
Ace passed away a few years back of a heat stroke. Monday Sarah called me crying, Emma has cancer and it's in the final stage. Sarah noticed a small knot on her back Monday morning. Tuesday the knot had doubled and test showed cancer. It just came on with no warning and this morning Emma passed away. So that leaves Sarah with Lizzy and Scooby. Losing a dog is heartbreaking. People bond with their dogs just like bonding with your children. So keep Sarah in your thoughts for the next few days.

Dreaming of a bigger penis????

2008-10-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the adds.......Dreaming of a bigger penis? I can't believe these advertisements are on some of the web sites. How about the lady with the big eyes....."Add inches right now!" and then it goes on to say,
"Surprise her with a bigger penis"
There are a lot of things that I could say and comment on....but I will just keep them to myself. Come on folks....think about this. People are worried about the Lion's Den in Uniontown which I might add is about a mile from my house. Worried about what our children might see or hear from this business when all they have to do is get on the computer and see an advertisement to make your or your boyfriends penis bigger...what's the difference? Turn on a soap opera in the afternoon and watch them get it on under the covers.
Some of you men who read my blog, buy the pills and let us know what happens.....just remember to take measurements before and after. We need proof (pictures???) to see if this stuff really works!!!!!

Good Monday Morning.....

2008-10-13T07:29:00.001-07:00

I began my day as usual...walking the dogs. After that its always the same-- make the bed and do the usual things to keep the house in order. I set down at the computer with my bowl of Cheerios to check my mail and catch up on the morning news and read my friends blog.
Now, Lily loves Cheerios. I keep a foot stool by my chair for her to set on. As I'm reading my best bud Shelley's blog, a picture of Libby comes up. Lily starts to growl......I look around and she is staring at the picture and getting really upset.......I have to laugh...I ask Lily if Libby is upsetting her and she just keeps growling. It was one of those moments that you just had to be here to appreciate it. Better watch out Libby all six pounds of Lily will be keeping an eye on you!!

Empty.......

2008-10-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

Over the past week I have been spending a few hours a day in the shop. Going through stuff and organizing product. I have filled a few trash bags with what I call junk. We all have items that we just keep for no reason. Just never know when we might need it.
The front room is almost empty except for a couple of cabinets. I called my friend Linda and told her I had some odds and ends of silk stems and did she think one of her Ag. class could use them. As we were loading her up she said she wanted to see the front room.......Wow--is all she said for a few minutes.....she just stood there.....it's all gone, she stated. Now, mind you Linda had never seen the show room empty. She was over whelmed, I told her no tears. As we were standing there we noticed a lady had driven by the store a couple of times real slow. Then she pulled up and came to the door and was looking in the windows. Linda unlocked the door and let her in. She stated that she always loved looking at my windows. She said, "Your windows were always spectacular, I loved driving by at night and looking at them." I explained to her I couldn't make ends meet any more with the economy the way it was. She said she would miss my beautiful windows!!
I was stopped the other day coming out of the post office. A gentleman thanked me for his mother's beautiful casket spray. It was so elegant, Mother would have loved it. He ask me now that I had closed the store if he could still order flowers....well, yes you can but I'm only doing funeral work from my home. That was fine with him.

The Debate

2008-10-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching the debate. There was more talk about small business and how they as the next president was going to help us. In my opinion, I'm considered a small-small business. How has the government helped me in trying to keep my shop open? They have hurt me and others more than they've helped. 1) by letting CEO's of major company's bring home paychecks totaling over 70million dollars (then they ask for a bail out). 2) by making it harder to get a line of credit. 3) letting gas prices skyrocket. Just today I saw an interview of a business owner saying the bank was putting a hold on his line of credit, and he didn't know how he could say afloat after 30 days. I've ran my business for 14 years without a line of credit. I'm thankful that I don't have to worry about coming up with money for a payment.
I believe that the vast majority of our law makers don't have slightest ideal what a small business owner goes through each and every day. The worry, the stress, the what if's. Waking up in the middle of the night knowing that your accounts receivable is over $2500 and your customers are not in a hurry to pay for the goods that you delivered on time as promised. In most business your customers will pay for the goods as they receive them. But floral shops are a bit different. 95% of my accounts receivable are from my customers within a 10 mile radius of my shop. Yet they fail to make their payments on time. Even though their invoice stated--accounts over 30 days will be charged a $2 late fee. Right now I have some accounts that are over 90 days. I continue to send out invoices and make phone calls and it falls on deaf ears. You would be surprised by those folks who will finally pay their bill but fail to include the late fee...what about the envelopes, paper, ink, stamps and my time to continue to mail invoices when it takes months to collect.
When I started this blog I ask what or how the government was going to help the small business.....well, I believe that helping a small business starts with the community--being respectful and paying your bill on time and supporting them and not driving out of town and paying more for goods and services. When what you were needing was right in your community. Yes, there is a lot that the government can do to help the mom and pop shop's stay afloat. They are the backbone of this country.

Quietness of the country....

2008-10-07T01:56:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks.......those of you who live in the city don't know what peace you are missing by not living in the country. The noise of the traffic, noisy neighbors and I'm talking loud neighbors and the ones who are always watching what you are doing. Out here in the country we don't really care what our neighbors do. But now when they leave for a period of time, we really keep an eye out for strange cars and pay more attention to what is going on. I've never lived in town. I have slept at the store before when I was swamped with funeral work or it was Valentines Day. But then I was to tired to worry about the noise.
I don't think my chickens, ducks, pigs and my turkey would care to live there either, I just can't see them being welcomed. They wouldn't care for the noise neither.
So I think we will just stay in the country....
By the way I have brown eggs for sale!!!!!

I'm Back.....

2008-10-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

It's so nice to have my Internet back!!!
Thomas and I got my office set up at home and we got everything hooked up and waited. Waiting for Tuesday to get here for my hook up-- seemed like eternity. Well, today is Thursday and the phone tech called and said someone(always blame it on someone else) had hooked up the wires backwards (at the tower on Hwy.31) and that was my problem. Try it now he says......yes....I'm finally back in contact with the world outside of Uniontown.
It's been over a week now since I closed my flower shop and my customers are still calling....they want me to keep doing flowers...they say, "can you work out of your home" or "who's going to take care of me, your the only one I trust" or "maybe, you can just scale down and still take care of your best customers." I have made a few deliveries this week--from my home in Uniontown.
I kept the store's phone number, just had it rolled over to my home number. I want to thank everyone for the calls and the thoughtful cards they mean more than you know. I will be purchasing scrap books to keep them in. I want to go to the shop next week and take them all down from the back room and add them to the books too. Now, I have to catch up on my emails!!

winding down

2008-09-22T07:03:00.000-07:00

Won't be long now......tomorrow is the last day. The cooler is pretty much empty. Some of the displays are sold in the front room and folks will pick them up by the end of the week.
Sarah and Sandra went through all the Christmas items upstairs and got what they wanted.
My little brother Gary has a shop in Little Nashville (Brown County) and I will be at his store on Thursday and Friday setting up displays. The majority of my items will be placed in his shop for his customers to buy.
Another chapter of my life is coming to a close.
So if you don't have nothing to do tomorrow stop by Mountain Memories
for one last time...........

Finally Friday....

2008-09-19T12:07:00.001-07:00

Finally it's Friday.....those are wonderful words to say and to hear.
Thomas and I don't have much planned for the next few days. I've been trying to get our new office ready. Started painting last night and hope to finish it this weekend. Maybe if all goes well we can move in the furniture and the rest of the stuff next weekend. At least that is our plan.
Only a few days left in the flower shop. I have gotten a lot of calls from my customers the past few days. They were a little worried as to who would take care of them and give them the outstanding service that they are accustomed to once I close the shop. I told them not to worry, I'm trying to stay local in hopes of another florist hiring me. Some folks said I should take orders from my home and just scale down and only do funerals and wire orders. Well, that's a thought. We'll see.......
Everyone one have an relaxing weekend...........

Busy Day....

2008-09-17T07:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Tuesday) was a very busy day. With the passing of Gerald "Red" Reynolds we were swamped. Crothersville needs more folks with the sincere quality's of "Big Red."
I started the day about 5am and headed to the flower market in Louisville. The phone started ringing as I walked in the door and didn't stop till about 6:30pm.
I called my friend, Linda Maxie and she came over and helped out. Later in the day Denise came by and gave us a helping hand. This was really a blessing cause school was out due to the storm and electric being out around town. I made my last delivery about 6:45pm.
Will I miss funeral work and being swamped....YES
When I opened my business 14 years ago I knew I wouldn't make tons of money. Being a florist is one of the most under-paid professions. We give so much away...and I'm not talking free product. It's the things that each one of use should be giving away daily. If I have to tell you what they are then you are not giving them away.........

getting blowed away...

2008-09-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

Thomas and I was out running errands yesterday afternoon when the wind started getting really bad. We couldn't get thru the "S" curves on our way home. A transformer pole had snapped. So we took a short cut and came out by the New Hope Church. Then down by Swifty Farms there were phone lines down, we looked at each other and said at the same time we need to go check the store. Driving past my church, Uniontown Baptist, we lost two shutters and our speakers on the roof. Driving farther we saw trees down and siding off of houses. Sarah calls and says, there's no electric in town and that with the luck I had with my cooler freezing up I better go check things out. As we drive up we notice shingles loose and some siding on the eves were missing. I tracked down the siding
so that my cousin Steve can put it back. The shingles were just lifted up and that will be easy to fix.
As we head home we wonder whats going on there. I told Thomas now I know how people feel during storms as they head home--what will they find...will home still be there. As we pull in the lane we notice that the gravity wagon as moved about 40 yards and had been headed for the house when my Snowball bush stopped it. Whew!! Thomas notices shingles blowing up and coming lose (another job for Steve) and that the hog house roof is gone. Now this is a small house just big enough for our four pigs. Thomas built it with a flat roof that can be opened. The wind had lifted it up and laid it down in the hog lot. The hinges were still on the house with the screws still in tact. We chased down our down spouts and headed inside.
Being a Daddy's girl I headed up to Daddy's. He's already been on his roof trying to save his shingles. On the west side the shingles have just peeled back and he can't set still for worrying about roof damage. I explained that's why he has insurance. He wants me to phone Steve so that he can get on his work list. After a bit Daddy's says lets get on the roof, I have to keep them from peeling all the way back, or I'll loose my whole roof. So.....what do you think we did...there we were, both of us on the roof....wind blowing like crazy. There we set, I have my arm around Daddy telling him to stay low or we are both going down. After about 10 minutes he had one board nailed down and Daddy says OK lets get down. We wait for a pause in the wind and make our way down. As we were coming down Mom says, "You two are just plain crazy"....
Daddy's wants to come into town and check things out. Finally we make it back home and just wait for the wind to die down. After watching the news were blessed that we just had only minor damage.

.

frozen flowers

2008-09-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

I felt pretty good when I left Friday evening. The casket spray was done and all the orders were designed and ready for delivery to Adams Funeral Home for Saturday afternoon.
As I set on the back porch before work I was glad I had the orders filled and that it was going to be a pretty smooth day.
I got to the shop, opened and did a bit of paper work and went to the cooler, opened the door and........I could not believe my eyes. I looked at the temperature gauge and it said 20 degrees.......Shit.... and then I lost it...all of my flowers were frozen. The water in the buckets were frozen. The lily's on the casket were frozen. My entire cooler was frozen over. Not just frozen but....FROZEN. Have you ever seen frozen flowers? They ain't pretty!!
I just stood there and cried and I got this knot in the bottom of my stomach. I pulled it together enough to call the flower market and said, please tell me you have"Stargazer Lily's" and Red Freedom Roses left.....Yes he did... so I gave him the rest of the order and he said he would have a driver up to me in about an hour.
I called Thomas and he came down and checked a few things out and my line had frozen during the night. He pushed a few buttons and turned a few knobs and looked at the outside unit and he said a few choice words.
As a florist you try to be prepared for anything but, you are never prepared for a frozen casket spray on the day of the viewing.
All the orders are now done and I'm ready to make my way to the funeral home. I took pictures of the mess so that I can turn them into the my insurance agent. I think I will keep a few for myself so that I can put them in my "Mountain Memories Memory Book"........

community support.....

2008-09-12T09:40:00.001-07:00

I opened the Tribune today and was reading the articles about the Crothersville Sesquicentennial Queen pageant.
In the picture the two queens are holding arm bouquets of yellow roses....Hummm
This is the Crothersville Sesquicentennial and I own the only flower shop in town......I don't recall designing flowers for the queens......
The Sesquicentennial had no problem asking me for a money donation to support there cause. Don't you think they would want to support the business in town? Where did they order those flowers from?
I'm closing my business on September 23, and I know times are hard for everyone, especially family's. But when you see something like this it's just a slap in the face. Support your local business....Yea right!
Am I pissed....damn right I am.

How do you let go?

2008-09-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

How do you let go of something that is part of you?
When is the best time to let go?
Can you let go and walk away?
We all have an inner circle of friends and then we have a inner circle of those friends. Those in my inner-inner circle know that I have been stressing for quite sometime. Stressing over the economy and how it's effected by floral business. I've had many sleepless nights. Setting in the swing on the back porch in the wee hours of the morning, setting at the kitchen table going over numbers time and time again.
We all are given a gift at birth. My gift was floral designing.
On more than one occasion I have spent the night in my shop designing flowers for a funeral and majority of the time the deceased was a very good friend. Each design had to be perfect. I thank Mark and Leslie for allowing me to place the flowers upon the casket. This lets me make sure that each flower is in it's proper place. So when the family views their loved one everything is perfect.
Over the years many of my customers have made me promise them that I will place flowers on their casket and they have told me in great detail what colors and which flowers they want. I will keep my promise.
I will stay in the floral business, I could end up working for another flower shop....working my 8/9 hour days and going home and let them stress about being the owner!!

BALL STATE.....

2008-08-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

As I get my day started here in the flower shop, I try to spend a few minutes each morning to read my email's and to see what my friends topics are on their blogs. I enjoy reading Mike from the Pines blog. I have enjoyed his feast on many occasions.
This morning his blog caught my eye when I seen the words ...........
BALL STATE. As many of you know my oldest daughter Sarah is a graduate of Ball State. Sarah holds a double major in Science.
I can still remember the day I loaded up the Expedition and headed north. Sarah was in Mysch Hall, top floor last door on your left. I remember most everything of moving that day. Standing out in the court yard waiting your turn for a cart to load up the heavy stuff. Unpacking all the clothes and hanging them up trying not to let my tears be seen. Sarah was so excited--she was ready for collage-- she had been since the middle of her senior year of high school. As we finished up and she walked us out a million things was running through my head, Sarah don't forget to do this and remember you have to get this done, and make sure you do this.....MOM!!! I know I have made a list of all the things that I have to do for the next few days--I'll be fine. Sarah was beaming grinning ear to ear. Pulling out of the parking lot Sarah blew me a kiss and patted her heart and said , "I love ya ma." As I laid in bed that night I wondered what Sarah was doing, about 12:30am the phone rang......Hey Mom, was you sleeping? I love Ball State and I don't think I will ever come home.....Sarah never came home for 6 weeks. I was broken hearted but it was good for both of us. The counselors will tell you that if the students won't go home for a few weeks it will make the adjustment easier. Sarah and I talked at least 2/3 times a day. In the design room at the shop I still have the Ball State map and all of her schedules still up on the wall. There is also a banner hanging out front.
So to Mike...life will change and home will never be the same... there will be days that you'll want to turn off the grill and head north. GO CARDS...

Preachers sermon....

2008-08-18T07:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday is suppose to be a day of rest, at least that's how the Bible reads...Sunday is also suppose to be a day to re-charge your battery for the coming week. To sing his (Jesus) praises, lift up your hand in praise for the things that you have been blessed with and to hear uplifting words so that you can get through another week and be able to deal with what is placed on your plate.
There has been a lot of tension in my church for the past month. It's all because our pastor believes that the Watch Dog protesters do no wrong. The protesters have abused our church and taken advantage of the building and the congregation on more than one occasion ( I could give you examples but I'm not). The church members that live in and around Uniontown know what really goes on. We have seen things with our own eyes and heard things with our own ears. Our pastor lives in Louisville and most of the time he only spends 4 hours a week in our community.....
A good pastor is not suppose to take sides. He's not suppose to divide his flock into two groups. I also believe he shouldn't use the pulpit for degrading certain members or use it as a platform to gain votes for the upcoming vote. Our pastor has become lost in his own little world.
Would he have preached and spoke as he did yesterday if Jesus had been setting in the pew? My church is small and we are all very close to each other but the past few weeks the pastor has made ripples and after yesterdays so called sermon a few people walked out saying they wouldn't be back until the pastor is gone. Me--I'll out last him and I've given him my opinion at least twice (after comments were made about Thomas) in the past few weeks. I pray for my pastor that Jesus will show him the path that he needs to be going down and for wisdom to see outside of the box that he is in. I ask that as you read this that you will also lift up my church in prayer.........

24 years ago today

2008-08-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Sandra's birthday.....I took a birthday cake to her office and surprised her this morning....She called me while I was on my way and ask why I hadn't called her yet, have you forgotten what you did 24 years ago today??? No, Sandra, you never forget stuff like that.
Sandra came 18 days late and she wasn't your normal delivery. The nurses went as far as to put me on an elevator to get Sandra to turn.
I let them know they were wasting their time-- she was stuck.....they had a surgeon on stand by out in the hall and it took two doctors for the delivery and if I remember there was five nurses. But--I delivered her all 7lbs and 6oz., 22 inches long at 12:21pm on a hot Sunday afternoon.
I wanted a finger and toe count as soon as possible and as the nurse laid her on my chest she stated that she was perfect and beautiful!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY...Sandra Denise

Indiana State Fair

2008-08-11T07:45:00.000-07:00

Thomas and I spent Sunday at the Indiana State Fair. We couldn't have chosen a better day to go and the weather was perfect. The news was saying last night that it might have been a record crowd. Yes, there was a ton of people, but Thomas and I had no problems enjoying our selves.
We made it through the buildings and some of the barns.
I think I was beaming when I entered the building with the logo......
"Ball State" Inside this building is the Orchid display. These orchids were amazing. I would have liked to clip a few blooms and bring them home for some of my arrangements.
We stopped at Cheeseburger Paradise for supper and we had a great meal. They had opened the doors that leads to the patio dinning which made one great big room and with a light breeze coming through made our evening meal that much better. I told Thomas all we need now is a view of the ocean. He stated yes and a two week vacation on the beach....

Adventures at Shelley's

2008-08-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

My puppies and I adventured to Shelley's house last evening for a photo session....Shelley got some really great pics but we're going to have to go back for more ....I think it's just an excuse by Shelley to play with the puppies again!!
Sgt. Major Bogie, Bella, BB and Annie love to ride in my big truck. Annie likes to to set on the console so that she has a good view.
I had all four in my arms as I walked up onto the porch. Perry came to the door and couldn't believe I had all four in my arms. We had been there less than five minutes when Shelley and Perry already had there favorite picked out and they both chose Bella.
I had ask Shelley to take some shots of their color pattern so that we could email them to a breeder in Tennessee. Angie (a breeder of Dachshunds)
has done extensive research on color and patterns. I wanted to be correct when I filled out their papers.
Polly and Carl came down for play time and they two picked Bella as their favorite. They like Shelley would have taken all four, but puppies are just like babies--they grow up.
We finally made our way home and got settled in and they were all asleep in no time. As they dozed off I thought I heard Belle bragging---"I was the favorite".

You got a friend.....

2008-08-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

The singer, "James Taylor" has always been a favorite of mine. He wrote a song back in the 70"s titled, "You Got A Friend". That song has stuck with me ever since I sung it at camp one year for talent show night.
Being a small business owner in a small town gets to be a challenge with the economy these days. Some days it's a struggle just to keep your chin above water. This week has been no exception, it's been a challenge.
I have been blessed with a couple of girlfriends that are angels and their friendship is priceless. One of my angles had a feeling she just had to call me. We spent better part of an hour and half on the phone just talking and her trying to lift my spirits. At one time she too owned a business so she knows what I go through. The next day she came into the store all bubbly bearing gifts. She states that these are pick me up gifts--guaranteed to make you smile. One of the gifts was a daily desk calendar with daily verses. The verse for that day was....
***If there is a lesson in life to be learned from a trying
experience, it is: Don't let the problems that are
out of your control get to you. Instead of panicking,
look at the humorous side. Every woman should
attempt to do this, no matter how stressed out she is.
We have to take life in stride, one step at a time. As
long as we can laugh and stop treating difficulties
as disasters, everything will be just fine.
Life has a way of placing things where they need to be on a day when you need them!!

Getting back to normal??

2008-07-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon Thomas and I went to the fair grounds to help Linda with the FFA landscaping. Linda and I talked about what was on our agenda for the rest of the week and I told her I would have withdrawal from not being with her and Denise everyday. After loading all the plants on the truck Thomas and I made out way to the Family Arts building and picked up my blue ribbon for my chocolate cake-- from scratch and a white ribbon for my blackberry cake-- make and bake with butter.
Monday morning was a--OK, lets get back to our normal daily routine....
I made my way to the flower shop, checked in with the Brownstown shop and organized the flower orders for the day. Then it was off to Salem to
judge flowers at the Washington County fair. I've been a judge for the past few years and really enjoy it. They were also judging cakes, pies and cookies and I got to sample a few of those in between judging. Yummm...
It was nice to be able to set on the porch and play with my four puppies last evening. I haven't been in a hurry to sell them.....it is going to be very hard to part with them.....but I'll still have Lily and Bristol.
Well, the phone is starting to ring..so it's back to normal!!

Another day at the fair....

2008-07-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Wednesday) was a perfect day at the fair. We were blessed with awesome weather. I finally got to go through all the buildings and see all the neat things. The newest trend for signing up for all the free stuff is-- using your address labels....yes the same one's we address our mail with.
No more writing your name hundred's of times, or waiting on your turn to use the ink pen. Just peel and stick!!
I finally made my way to the sheep barns to Denise and the rest of the Maxie clan. Denise won the Grand Champion Sheep in 4-H. Now that is a big deal...Denise works very hard with all her animals and she gives 110% at being the best she can be.
Tonight is my floral design show at the Horticulture Building. So if you have the time drop by at 7:30 for a beautiful design show. I usually have about 25/30 ladies (and men) in attendance.

Fair time....

2008-07-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a busy day for me. I had to register my food entries into the Family Arts Building and then be back at the FFA building at 5pm to judge the students entries. I enjoy looking over the students work and reading their essays. The photography entries were awesome this year. After that was all done I helped Linda water the outside floral gardens, then it was over to the Sow and Litter contest. Dillion Maxie was so proud of his little pigs!!!! They were four days old and oh so cute.....Then he entered the biggest boar contest which he placed second in. Over 1,000 pounds--that's a lot of bacon and pork chops...
I have watched Dillion over the years at the fair and he has become the man to beat when showing pigs.
Sunday evening I attended the Queen Pageant. I just made it through the gate when the rain came. It was really coming down for a while. The contest had to stop a few times due to lighting and the heavy rains. But mother nature was always two steps behind the fair organizers. They were on top of things and by 10:30pm we had a new fair queen. The Crothersville girls looked very pretty. In my opinion we had the winner..but I wasn't judging that....
On my food entries I received first place on my- made from scratch
Chocolate Cake and a third place on my-make and bake with butter with my Blackberry Cake.
Its back to the fair tonight. The Maxie's are showing pigs at 5pm. I'm sure there will be more Blue ribbons tonight.
Oh, and make sure you read Denise's post in the Tribune today on her "life at the fair"