The topic has been an ongoing conversation at our house for the past couple of weeks: GIFTS Not tied-up-in-a-bow gifts, but rather the talents and abilities kind. It started with a sermon at church and the idea that we each have something to contribute that will benefit the whole. And then, a few days later, I was reminded that the 30th anniversary of the space shuttle Challenger was approaching... and it took me back to that day so many years ago when I watched that tragedy unfold in real-time—and tried to explain to a three-year-old what happened when I didn't understand it myself. Within a short time, we knew the end result—but for several months, we didn't really know what happened. ... Keep Reading...
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A Tablescape Tutorial: The Key to a Quick-change Centerpiece
Recently I asked if this centerpiece looked at all familiar... If you come here often, it should have. :-) With our house on the market, I've wanted to keep a tablescape on the table at all times, so I've been quick-changing this centerpiece—since Christmas! Want to know the trick? It's LAYERING. In the #1 tablescape, I went super quick-and-simple with pinecones, fresh greenery, and vintage Silent Night stenciled ornaments in a wood tray. Then, after (an unseasonably hot) Christmas, I was ready to cool things off a bit. In my #2 tablescape I added a few rocks and sweetgum balls to the pinecones for a little more texture ... Keep Reading...
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A Summons to Appear: Jury Duty
On a Friday evening not long ago, a friend told me she'd had jury duty. I told her I'd never been selected—but wanted to do my civic duty. The following Monday afternoon, look what arrived in my mailbox. Now why don't my other wishes come true so quickly? I'm blogging about this now because once I report for duty, I probably won't be able to. From what I understand, the first day is really just a time for checking in, hearing the rules, and getting a list of dates to keep open over the next few months—so I'll be available to serve if selected. I wonder what lies ahead. I'm not unfamiliar with the legal system. I've worked with lawyers, given depositions, and sworn to "tell the ... Keep Reading...
