Rabbit Run Cottage

Love Is In The Air

2012-02-14T11:56:00.001-05:00

A treat for all my sweet friends...

To all those who love, have loved, are loved and will love again someday.

To those who fully understand the power, unselfishness and purity of love in

all it's forms...the love of a spouse, a companion, a child, an animal,

a true friend, a parent, sibling or other family member. May God Bless

all who truly understand the beauty of love.

Happy Valentine's Day to you all.

Into Each Life a Little Snow Must Fall...

2012-01-12T13:14:00.001-05:00

"Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth,

for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside

the fire: it is the time for home."

~ Edith Sitwell

"In winter we lead a more inward life.

Our hearts are warm and cheery,

like cottages under drifts..."

~ Henry David Thoreau

"Oh! the snow, the beautiful snow, Filling the sky and

earth below, Over the housetops, over the street,

Over the heads of the people you meet.

Dancing, Flirting, Skimming along."

~ J.W. Watson

We are to receive our first snowfall of the new year this afternoon and I am thrilled.

I love Winter and all of it's beauty. Think of each snowflake as Winter's butterflies!

Stay safe and warm dear friends...and enjoy this season for all that makes it special.

The Little Things...

2012-01-01T13:01:00.000-05:00

Let's all take the time, in 2012, to celebrate the small things.

You know, the smell of a Summer rose, the laughter of children,

an understanding glance from a friend or family member. The aroma and taste of

a hot cup of tea or coffee, perfectly brewed.

An unexpected phone call from

an old buddy. Taking a nice, long hot shower or bubble bath, watching the sunrise

or the sunset, seeing a great film or play. How about settling in with a cozy throw and

a wonderful book? Ah...go ahead. You can picture it can't you?

The rustle of Autumn leaves...

...or the first Winter snowfall.

Going with your family to a Summer carnival...

...the unconditional love of a pet.

Each day we are showered with precious, little gifts that can bring us so much joy.

Let's celebrate the fact that you can see and hear and smell, taste, cry, laugh,

hug and be hugged. The simple fact that you woke up today, got out of

bed, that fact that you CAN make a difference in so many lives, that you CAN love and

be loved in return...let's celebrate the little things that surround us every day!

Happy New Year to each one of you...sending you all much love!

And A New year Begins...

2011-12-31T13:29:00.000-05:00

For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot

Wishing each one of you a peaceful, healthy and very happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T23:00:00.001-05:00

Much love to you all...

A Christmas Poem...Well...

2011-12-24T08:00:00.002-05:00

A poem by Clement and Susie Q...

Twas the night before Christmas,

when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring,

Except for old Susie Q who was still wrapping but...

Okay! I will just sit here quietly...sorry!

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

Good. He can help me finish all of the..okay! Okay!

The children were nestled all snug in their beds...

Um, so Dan was up working on his computer and Grace is downstairs practicing...but hey...sssh. I know. Ssssh...

While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.

Okay. What exactly IS a sugar plum? Have you ever eaten one 'cause I sure as heck have never had that odd pleasure.

And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,

Let's stop right here. This old Mama does NOT wear a kerchief and I guarantee you that old Billy Boy is not wearing a cap to bed.

Glad we cleared THAT up.

Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

My brain NEVER settles...maybe that's why I don't get a good nights sleep but then...what? Okay, okay...

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash,

Now THIS we all know is a falsehood. I haven't flown like a flash since...well...since...like never! More like, "I wearily hobbled to the window." Just keepin' it real here folks...

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

Tore? Me? I would never!

And our windows are so hard to open that *I* would be the one who "threw up", not that proverbial sash!

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.

Ah...doesn't that sound just as pretty as pretty can be? Okay! I will try not to interrupt!

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

If it WAS mimiature, no way would these old eyes see it. I would hafta go back and try to find my glasses and then...okay! OKAY!

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

Coursers...I never liked that part. Why couldn't old Clement just say reindeer! He had to use some fancy pantsy words like coursers! REINDEER! They are reindeer dang it!

"Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen!

And not one mention of Rudolph. The guy looks a little different and poof. Clement leaves him straight out of the poem...

To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all.

They could dash faster WITH Rudolph but Clement left the little guy out of HIS poem...guess he wasn't enough of a "courser"...alright. I'll be quiet.

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,

Did I ever tell you about the hurricane I was in? Um...okay. Maybe later.

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

There we go again. "Coursers". Sheesh...they like to be called REINDEER!

With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

They better not do any damage up there. My insurance company won't like that one bit...well, I was just sayin'!

As I drew in my head, and was turning around,

Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

Here's another problem folks. We have a gas fireplace. There is no *real* chimney to speak of. So the jolly old man is gonna hafta come through the front door. I sure hope he wipes his feet.

Alright! I'll be quiet...

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,

I have a REAL problem with this...unless it was *faux* fur. Was it? Well, why DON'T you know?

And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.

I KNEW he was gonna make a mess...I knew it!

A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

What? I didn't say a word!

His eyes-how they twinkled! His dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

Huh? Oh, I thought you were describing me? Go on...go!

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,

And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.

Okay. Just a minute. One more issue...I do NOT allow smokin' in here...the old guy is gonna hafta leave that pipe outside. I don't care WHO he is!

He had a broad face and a little round belly,

That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

Now I KNOW you are describing me! How rude!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!

Is he jolly because he is plump and chubby? Isn't that a little degrading? I myself am a little chubby and plump (Which, by the way Clement, is a tad redundant) and I am not always jolly. Hmpf.

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

Except for that pipe smoke and all that soot and dirt he brought in on his boots...sheesh...

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk

Stockings...okay, here is another complaint. Every year I ask Santa to put Brian Dennehy in MY stocking. For 35 years I have asked the old elf for the same thing. Has he ever come through? Excuses, excuses...Brian would not fit in my stocking, Brian wants to spend Christmas with his own family, Bill might not like it...excuses, excuses. What? Okay...go on. I will just sit here quietly...

And laying his finger aside of his nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

Like I said, we have no real chimney. The old guy has to use the door! Gee whiz...how many times must I...what? Okay, okay..

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,

I just wanna see this old, chubby, plump guy spring anywhere...

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,

"'Ere" he driving those *coursers*?

Sheesh...they are REINDEER!

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Like he said...I have been asked to cease and desist all further chatter...

*whispering* Merry Christmas anyway!

~ who just may see how it

feels to sleep in a kerchief

A Little Mouse...

2011-12-23T15:48:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa,

I am just a little mouse, I'm quiet and so shy...

My Mama says I'm awfully good, I know

I always try!

I make my bed, I sweep the floor,

I hang up all my clothes...

I never fuss, I clean my plate and

\ always wipe my nose.

I would like some tasty nuts and

berries oh so sweet...

A wind up car, a woolen hat and

slippers for my feet.

A boat that sails, a bouncy ball, a horse that

neighs and rocks...

Some peppermints & bubble gum, a pair of

red-striped socks.

But Santa please remember the little

mice so sad...

The ones who have no nice warm homes, no

Mama dear, no Dad.

Maybe I should ask you now to give

my gifts away...

To wee ones who are hurting so & have

forgotten how to play.

I have enough dear Santa & I think that

I should share...

With all of those who need my help, to show

them that I care.

For many mice go without and feel

so by themselves...

They fear they are forgotten by Santa

and his elves.

Please give a toy to bring a smile to each

sad, lonely mouse...

Some Christmas cheer to bring some joy

to every tiny house.

(C) Susie Q 2006

Please remember those in need in your own area and give as much

as you can to the food banks and toy drives. Your generous

help will put a big smile on someone's face this Christmas Day.

God Bless you all...

Pretty, Pink, Peppermint Perfection

2011-12-23T08:44:00.000-05:00

pouch chocolate chunk cookie mix

3. tablespoons vegetable oil

1. tablespoon water

1. egg

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

2 1/2cups powdered sugar

1/4cup crushed peppermint candies (about 14)

3. tablespoons butter or margarine, softened

3 to 4 tablespoons milk

2 to 3 drops red food color

Powdered sugar

Lightly spray 24 mini muffin cups with cooking spray. Prepare cookie dough

as directed on package adding peppermint extract. Shape dough into 24(1-inch)

balls; place in muffin cups.

Bake at 375° F for 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Immediately make indentation in

center of each cookie with end of wooden spoon to form a cup. Cool 30 minutes.

Remove from pan; cool completely.

In medium bowl, beat powdered sugar, crushed peppermint candies, butter, milk,

and red food color with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

Spoon frosting into decorating bag with large star tip. Pipe into each cookie cup.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Store in refrigerator.

Yum!

Hoping that you are enjoying each and every moment of the Christmas season.

We have been so busy with holiday events and preparations but it is all so sweet isn't it?

Do remember to take time for yourself, maybe pour that second cup of hot tea and indulge in another

sugar cookie! You deserve it!

A Christmas Tea

2011-12-17T11:35:00.004-05:00

One of my most favorites places in Dayton is the Basically British Tea Room, owned

and operated by the charming Terry Ronald. I have enjoyed a sweet afternoon here on 3

other occasions but this day found a group of us celebrating our dear friend Peggy's

birthday! I had never been during December and it was such a treat!

Basically British offers over 85 teas and owner,
the wonderful British gentleman

that he is, Proprietor Terry Ronald is always a
gracious presence, providing

helpful suggestions with wit and tact. It can't be done
much better than this.

He offers clear and concise explanations of the
varieties of tea which is both

delightful and helpful in the selection process.

The food is always beautifully presented and delicious.

The atmosphere is

charming but not stiff or stuffy.
It was especially pretty on this December

day all decked out for the Christmas holidays.

Perfectly brewed teas arrive in pots wrapped in
cozies: fancy prints with ribbons

for ladies, plain wrappers for gentlemen.
The atmosphere was cozy and charming

with special holiday items and English 'crackers'on
the beautifully set tables.

Of course we all had to try in the paper crowns
found inside our crackers!

Our menu was:

To say it was all delicious is an understatement!

Basically British is located in downtown Dayton
in an old building known

as The Cannery. In past years, the building was
extensively remodeled to incorporate

almost two hundred lofts, along with several retail
establishments.

The style of the building makes a particularly
suitable setting: high ceilings,

brick walls, elegant woodwork, attractive
windows and hardwood floors.

This was Grace's first visit to Basically British but

she has decreed it will not be

her last! She enjoyed it so much!

Happy Birthday Peggy! It was so wonderful to share

this time with you, Michelle,

Pam and Grace, 3 of my most favorite ladies!

Hmmm...now I think will go and brew a pot of

Christmas Spice tea

which I purchased that afternoon.

Ahhh...so good.

A Positively Medieval Christmas

2011-12-12T12:01:00.003-05:00

You are hereby invited to join me and members of my family to experience the laughter and song of a medieval holiday! We shall feast amongst royalty and close the year in grand fashion. We will begin in the reception hall for hot wassail or a cup of delicious eggnog before a roaring fire. Ah how heavenly! The trumpeter will usher you into the Great Hall to await the entrance of the royal party. You will sit amidst the flurry of his majesty's performers-musicians, singers, dancers, the puppet master and the jester. The comedy, music and artistry will ensue about you, pausing only for the feast itself....join us won't you?

During the Middle Ages and continuing well into the Renaissance, the holiday season was a time when guests traveled great distances to the castles of wealthy friends and family members to feast, dance and exchange news in a celebration that lasted several days! After the rigorous fast of the Advent season, elaborate preparations were made to ensure a truly festive event.

The banquet at Christmas, as on other great holidays, was not an isolated meal, but rather a series of celebrations filled with pageantry and circumstance. After prayers in chapel or at the table, trumpet fanfares signaled the service of specific courses and dishes within the feast. Guests danced, told stories, and sang in enthusiastic outbursts of merrymaking.

Since 1983, the annual Madrigal Dinner, produced each December by the Wright State University Student Union with the Department of Music, has provided our community with a musical and dramatic interpretation of these fabulous medieval ceremonial feasts. This event has become an established tradition that spans four evenings and entertains over 1,300 guests! Bill and I treated Mom and Grace to this revelry last night and oh what fun we all had!

We enjoyed traditional English fare, amidst the antics of jesters and manorfolk, dancing and revelry, the Puppet Master, and the wonderfully interwoven lines of the madrigal song. We were treated to the voices of the Wright State Chamber Singers, medieval dances choreographed by the Tudor Rose Performing Troupe, and the music of Wind in the Woods Early Music Ensemble.

Wes Hale!

Oh the pleasant manorfolk...

We all dined on Medieval Sallat, Beefe and Leeke Pie, Appyl Almynde Stuffed Turkey Breast, Wylde Ryse Blend, Honey Glazed Carrotes and Parsnips, Brannbrede with a delicious Bûche Noël and Plomme Poddyngfor dessert! Okay, so I think you can translate but no matter how you pronounce it, or spell it, it was all delicious!

Ah...the wassail!

A toast! A toast!

Let the dancing begin!

There will be much rejoicing...

Much frivolity...

Much singing...

And much revelry!

Huzzah!

We will be surrounded by beautiful ladies!

Farewell your Grace...

Farewell...

Farewell all...the evening winds warmly to it's close, leaving us with full stomachs and full hearts!

Hoping each one of you is enjoying the sweet traditions and fun that are

such a part of lour lives at this special time of year!

Let's Go Down To Rike's

2011-12-09T18:33:00.000-05:00

Rike's was a wonderful 7 story department store in downtown Dayton, Ohio

which began in the 1850s as a Dry Goods store.

Rike's former main store is now the site of the Schuster Performng Arts Center. Although I have had glorious theater and musical experiences at The Schuster, each time I visit I get a wee twinge...oh the memories that come flooding back!

For most of us who grew up in the Dayton, Ohio area, going downtown to Rike's department store during the holidays was a must do! Their windows were just such fun! I can still remember standing in the bitter cold, nose pressed to the icy glass, drinking in every single detail each scene offered. To us, the children of the 50s and 60s, they were an integral part of our Christmas experience. When Rike's was imploded to make way for The Schuster Center, these scenes were salvaged and reconditioned. What a treat for the children of today and for those of us of a...um...*certain* age. Those of us who still fondly remember their years as a little one and have kept their child like enthusiasm locked securely in their heart!

The famous Christmas window displays that delighted children of all ages in the old Rike’s department store at Second and Main Streets in downtown Dayton actually migrated here from New York City.

The display, now shown each December at the Wintergarden in the Schuster Center, first appeared in the windows of the NCR offices in New York City in 1943!

According to research done by author Curt Dalton of Dayton, and one of the interesting stories in his latest book of little-known facts about Dayton, the display is based on the Charles Dicken’s story “A Christmas Carol.”

Dalton said each scene of the original display was painstakingly researched and the Dickens-like characters were dressed in period attire and set against three dimensional backgrounds built by carpenters of NCR here in Dayton.

The display was such a hit in New York that in 1945 Frederick Rike, owner of the Rike-Kumler store which later became Rike’s, negotiated and was given permission to erect the Christmas display, including the moving characters, in the windows of his store in Dayton.

It soon became the focal point of Christmas in downtown Dayton, and nearly every family would bring children downtown each December to enjoy the magnificent presentation with dancing elves, and starring Santa Claus.

When the complex that housed Rikes was eventually razed in November of 1999 many of the little figures of the display were placed in storage in an empty store. Eventually they were resurrected, repaired, and now are displayed each Christmas in The Schuster's Wintergarden.

Yes, once upon a time, a wonderful and magical holiday tradition was on prominent display, entertaining and delighting children of all ages - hopefully creating memories that would last for the duration of their lives.

These glorious windows became the focal point of Christmas in downtown Dayton, and nearly every area family would bring children downtown each December to enjoy the magnificent presentations featuring dancing elves, woodland creatures, happy families and all manner of holiday delights! Oh what sweet memories!

Just yours truly, doing what I love to do...

I hope you have all had a sweet week and that your holiday plans are falling into place.

With love...

Easy Decadence

2011-12-05T14:33:00.000-05:00

How about a recipe for something decadent that looks wonderful and

will have folks thinking you are a genius in the kitchen! Okay, most of you probably ARE pretty darned good at all the cooking and baking that goes on at this time of year. Me? Well, let's just say I like it easy...and good...and easy. Did I mention easy?

Oreo Truffles

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, divided

1 (8 ounce) package Cream Cheese, softened

2 (8 ounce) packages Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate, melted

Directions

Crush 9 of the cookies to fine crumbs in food processor; reserve for later use. (Cookies can also be finely crushed in a resealable plastic bag using a rolling pin.) Crush remaining 36 cookies to fine crumbs; place in medium bowl. Add cream cheese; mix until well blended. Roll cookie mixture into 42 balls, about 1-inch in diameter.

Dip balls in chocolate; place on wax paper-covered baking sheet. Sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs. Now you can decorate if you wish! We like to drizzle on some of that melted chocolate.

Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Store leftover truffles, covered, in refrigerator. Okay, so you probably won't have any left overs but hey...

White chocolate chips can also be melted and used too! It's all so good! Decadent but good!

Now go and enjoy! Go on...shoo.

Christmas Time In Chicago

2011-12-02T15:30:00.001-05:00

Bill had another conference to attend in Chicago this week so Grace and I tagged along!

What's better than to enjoy some Christmas fun in the Windy City? Everything was bright and cheery and we all had such a good time...especially our Grace. We all love Chicago but she had never been at this time of year. It was such a treat to see it all through her eyes!

From Navy Pier...

To State Street...

To the Art Museum...

To the Deep Dish Pizza!

Our girl was enjoying every moment!

From the lights...

To the improv comedy...

To the hustle and bustle...we love this city!

I had always wanted to visit Chicago and experience the Christkindlmarket!

Each year Daley Plaza is transformed into a German Holiday Market!

Beautiful handicrafts and gift items, delicious food, music, friendly people and yes. A beer garden!

There was so much to see and wow. It was such a happy atmosphere to be in!

The weather was not bad at all for the first of December, just a tad chilly.

Of course, if you needed a warm up by the fire you had to wrestle a pigeon or three for a spot!

We met all sorts of nice folks...

No trip to Chicago at Christmas time is complete without a stop at Marshall Field's.

Okay. I know it's now Macy's but to me it will always be Marshall Field's!

Look who was ringing the bell outside! It's the White Sox's mascot!

Lookin' good there Southpaw!

Watching the little one's faces is always sweet...

...and watching our 13 year old's face filled with wonder is extra special!

We shopped and shopped (oh can my girl shop!) and then Daddy

suggested we eat lunch in The Walnut Room. Perfect!

Not only is Marshall Field's/Macy's Walnut Room a historical landmark in Chicago, it is also home to a glorious 25 ft tree! Surrounding it are lots of smaller ones dressed in ornaments designed by various celebrities. The profits of these benefit Make A Wish.

And wow! Just as we were seated we were greeted by a Christmas Fairy!

She asked Grace to close her eyes and make a wish as she sprinkled fairy dust over her. I wonder what our girl wished for?

Then we had to decide what to order! It all looked so good!

Thank you Bill for a wonderful day!

Do you think Grace is really sending Santa a letter?

You never know...after all, I still believe!

That was fun wasn't it Gracie?

Bye Marshall Field's...see you again soon!

Bye Chicago! We will be back in the Spring!

Now it's time to tackle a week's worth of laundry, cleaning and to begin the annual Christmas fluff!

The tree is up but shh...very naked right now. Don't peek yet okay?

But I do have my cards done and the gifts purchased/made! Baking begins this weekend too!

Hoping each one of you has a safe and happy December, one filled

with joy and the magic of this special season!

Happy Thanksgiving Dear Ones

2011-11-23T11:35:00.000-05:00

I am so grateful for each one of you...for your support, your love, friendship and warmth. I am grateful for your inspiration, joy filled spirits & sense of humor, your love of home, hearth, good food, vintage decor and family life. I am grateful you share all of that with all of us.

God Bless you all.

For All The Moms On Thanksgiving....

2011-11-22T15:00:00.002-05:00

My Open Thanksgiving Letter To You All...

2011-11-20T18:59:00.000-05:00

I want to wish every one of you a Thanksgiving Day filled with the joy a giving & thankful heart knows. A heart filled with purpose, with appreciation for all the gifts that God has blessed each one of us with. A heart filled with love for our friends, our neighbors, our families but also for those who need a helping hand. Those who need a warm smile, a hug, an understanding voice.

For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

The last year has given me so many challenges, much sadness and buckets of tears. But it has also given me a new sense of purpose, a discovery of self, abounding love from friends and family and the knowledge that I am not alone.

The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep

through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!

~Henry Ward Beecher

Beginning with the sudden loss of our precious dog Kipper last November, this year has been filled with trials. My mother went from being completely independent and full of spunk to barely being able to dress herself. Much of my time was devoted to her which left little to spend blogging. It is only recently that she is able to do more and I am grateful every day that we still have here here with us. We also faced the end of my brother & sister in law's marriage, an injury to my precious daughter, the re-emergence of my chronic illness and the sudden and shocking death of two men who I adored. Yes, a tough year.

A year that saw me reducing my blogging to the point that I almost ended it. I realize I don't visit many of you like I once did, or leave comments as often as I would like. I can't spend the time writing and photographing for my blog as I once enjoyed. Real life has a habit of making you change your priorities!

I continued the blog solely because of a handful of blog friends who have remained connected to me here and because many friends and family members around the world drop in from time to time.

I have watched Rabbit Run Cottage, The Blog, beg for life support! Poor thing, it felt unloved and unwanted! I will get back to regular blogging someday. For now though, my life has to take a different path.

I miss you all but do get around to visit when I can. Even if I don't leave a comment, I am able to see what each one of you is doing and to know you are well! Some day soon I hope to finish the zillions of home projects I have started and can join all of you in sharing that fun. But I still love my little cottage, though it may be imperfect and worn in places. Not unlike old Susie Q herself!

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~Thornton Wilder

Along with the challenges this year there have been delights and great happiness! I have discovered my passion for photography and it has led to a small business. It keeps me busy but happily so! Grace is well healed and taking dance classes, playing in an indoor rec soccer league, taking art classes and busy in school.

Daniel is working two jobs now in software development. He took up running this year and completed his first marathon last month with his Dad at his side!

Bill is working long hours but is also getting another Masters Degree & volunteering as a counselor with our church's JR High Youth group so his days are full!

We were able to go on a few get away trips to some of our favorite places, we entertained company here at Rabbit Run Cottage, visited with lots of relatives from both sides of our families at get togethers in 3 states. Such a gift! We have enjoyed lots of sweet times, concerts & dinners with our local friends & neighbors and shared so much laughter. Even on days when things seemed dark it was our close family and dear friends who found that ray of sun and brought it to me. I will always be grateful to them for that.

All that we behold is full of blessings.

~William Wordsworth

And we welcomed our sweet Winston into our family. How much joy he has given us, how much love, how much slobber and dog hair! But a house is not a real home without our pets! I am so grateful for the affection we receive from Winnie and our two kitties, Lucy & Henry.

To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous

and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven.

~Johannes A. Gaertner

I am grateful to have had the chance to get to know so many of you through blogging and to have actually met with so many as well. I wish I could convey to each one of you how much I care and what a joy it has been to have shared so much. I may not be as active in the blog community as I once was but I never forget the people who make up that community. Each one of you is so special.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and to those you love. May God Bless you.

The Doggie Dictionary

2011-11-17T09:21:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! This is Winston. The dog.

My Mom has been pretty busy lately and hasn't had any time to write nuthin' at all. Bein' a good dog and all, I told her I would help out! So I am. In case you have a dog or two, you might need to know these words and their meanins'.

LEASH: A strap which attaches to your collar enabling you to lead your person where you want him/her to go.

(I am really, really good at this! Really.)

DOG BED: Any soft, clean surface, such as the white bedspread in the guest room or the newly upholstered couch in the living room.

(You should see the permanent dent I put in the couch pillows! It's waaay cool!)

DROOL: What to do when your persons have food and you don’t. To do this properly you must sit as close as you can and look sad and let the drool fall to the floor or, better yet, on their laps.

(Drink a lot right before you try this and it works even better!)

SNIFF: A social custom to use when you greet other dogs until your person makes you stop.

(How else ya gonna get to know new friends?)

GARBAGE CAN: A container which your neighbors put out once a week to test your ingenuity. You must stand on your hind legs and try to push the lid off with your nose. If you do it right you are rewarded with margarine wrappers to shred, beef bones to consume and moldy crusts of bread.

(The one in my kitchen has this crazy lid on it. But one of these days...)

BICYCLES: Two-wheeled exercise machines, invented for dogs to control body fat. To get maximum aerobic benefit, you must hide behind a bush and dash out, bark loudly and run alongside for a few yards; the person then swerves and falls into the bushes, and you complete the exercise by prancing away.

(I think bicycles are evil beins' from another planet and it is
my job to protect my family from them! So there!)

HARD OF HEARING: A malady which affects a dog when its person wants it in and the dog wants to stay out. Symptoms include staring blankly at the person, then running in the opposite direction, or lying down.

( I also get this problem when my parents tell me to get in my box or
to stop chasin' the cats. Weird huh?)

THUNDER: A signal that the world is coming to an end. Humans remain amazingly calm during thunderstorms, so it is necessary to warn them of the danger by trembling uncontrollably, panting, peeing on the rug, rolling your eyes wildly and following at their heels.

(Thunder is bad. Very bad. Very. I am scared just writin' this.)

WASTEBASKET: A dog toy filled with paper, envelopes, and old candy wrappers. When you get bored, turn over the basket and strew the papers all over the house for your person to play with by putting back in the wastebasket when they come home.

(It helps give my Mom a good cardio work out every day...hey look!
You missed some paper over there! Just doin' my part to keep Mommy healfy!)

SOFAS: Are to dogs like napkins are to people. After eating it is polite to run up and down the front of the sofa and wipe your whiskers clean.

(Especially after you accidentally on purpose eat some passghetti wif loads of sauce!)

BATH: A process by which the humans drench the floor, walls and themselves. You can help by shaking vigorously and frequently.

(And I am a very good helper!)

LEAN: Every good dog’s response to the command “sit!” — especially if your person is dressed for an evening out. Incredibly effective before black-tie events.

(No one is fully dressed wifout some doggie or kitty hair on their clothes! I read that somewheres!)

BUMP: The best way to get your human’s attention when they are drinking a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

(Or milk, juice, Coke, wine, hot chocolate, cider...)

GOOSE BUMP: A last-resort maneuver used when the Regular Bump doesn’t get the attention you require. Especially effective when combined with The Sniff (see above).

LOVE: A feeling of intense affection, given freely and without restriction. To show your love, wag your tail and gaze adoringly. If you’re lucky, a human will love you in return.

(And I am a pretty lucky boy. 'Cause even when I am naughty my
family loves me anyway. And I love them. Yup.)

Well, all that hard work wore me right out!

So, later taters...see ya next time!

Hugs & Kisses,
Winston Barr Churchill George
Harrison Ford Combs Esq.

Beware! Scary Post Ahead! Oh wait...

2011-10-28T05:16:00.001-04:00

...not TOO scary I hope. I mean, I do frighten easily so I hope
these images will not cause any toes to curl or skin to crawl...my skin is scary enough
without it crawling all over the place...

But this all about SCAREcrows...scary, evil scarecrows.

Or not. I mean, I DID see more than one crow hanging around...but they seem to be much braver than me. Well, most things are braver than me. But still, each year Mom, Grace and I head over to Oakwood and drive down Scarecrow Row. People in that beautiful little city gather together and create these fearsome

terrors. Or not so fearsome. Or...

This guy looks pretty scary...very, very scary...is that blood on his fangs?

Yikes!

I mean, the one players name is Skwash! Keeping moving fast Susie Q

and maybe he won't see you...

Ants!!! I hate ants!!!

(I think I saw these in one of Brian Dennehy's early films)

I may never eat soup again.

They even cut off his ear!!!! *wail*

Okay, so this scarecrow family LOOKS safe enough...but looks can be deceiving...

Ghosts!!!

Sshhh...I don't want to lose my head like this lady did...don't bring

attention to us...please...ssshhh....

They even allowed sweet, innocent Girl Scouts to make these horrific creatures!

Look closely...those are GRAVES!! AHHHH! They must be Ghoul Scouts!

The Central Perc British Tea Room frightened me the MOST! Those Royal Wedding hats are TERRIFYING! Run or they will plant themselves on YOUR heads!

I am so gonna have nightmares about THIS one!

And look what the local library did! Something as innocent as childhood

classic books are turned EVIL!

Cousin IT and a HUGE M & M? That poor little dog...he is toast I am afraid...run doggie...run...

The SCARIO Brothers? Egads! Now I can never play that Wii game again without night terrors!

I don't know about you but I need to get home fast, jump into bed and pull

the blankets over my head! My heart is racing and...what?

You aren't scared? YOU want to go again?

NOOOOOOOoooooooo....

Susie Q's Birthday Extravagana In NYC!

2011-10-25T14:09:00.001-04:00

Welcome To Susie Q's 55th Birthday Party Blowout In New York City!

"Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today...I want to be a part of it - New York, New York...These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray...Right through the very heart of it - New York, New York...I wanna wake up in a city, that doesn't sleep..."

Let's get this party started...wow. A day in New York City with all my blog friends. It is October 26th and I am thrilled you all came to help me celebrate my 55th birthday! Yes, I am that old and I feel every day OF that 55 years this week but, on a crisp, cool Autumn day like this, in my favorite city in the world, surrounded by all of you...well, how could I be anything BUT delighted!

I do realize that arriving in the city before 5AM was a lot to ask of you all but gee. We have so much to see and do!

I have arranged to have a fleet of NYC taxis at our disposal...

Everything is *on Bill*. What a man huh? You will have to pay for nothing! Nuthin' at all! Now, since Bill could not attend the celebration (Actually, I told him this trip was for my bloggy buddies only!) to serve as Chaperon, I have asked someone who knows this city well...could you introduce yourself to my friends please?

Uh huh. Brian, as a special gift for his favorite fan, has sweetly volunteered his time to escort us around this great city. Thank Mr. D! Okay ladies...since *I* am the birthday girl, I get to hold his hand...Brian...wait a minute...where are you going? Hey! I had no idea he could run that fast...he must have forgotten to buy me a present. Silly man...Okay then, see you later right Brian??

Well, let's see now...ah. Breakfast. I bet you are all hungry.

First stop, Petite Abeille at 44 W 17th Street...a cozy and oh so classy restaurant with an amazing smell of all manner of waffles! I am trying their fresh Belgian waffles with strawberries and whipped cream. Yum!

Whew am I stuffed! Hey! Would any of you like to head over to 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and try to get on The Today Show? It will be fun! Come on!

*whistles for cab* Let's go! Whoo hoo. There's Brian!! HEY BRIAN!!

Isn't Ann Curry pretty?

Am I on Camera? *waving* Hi Mom! Hi Bill!

But whoa...who is this!! It's the BOSS!

Is this a thrill or what!! Whew! The BOSS performing on MY birthday! I am SO glad all of you were here with me...

Okay, so Brian is busy right now. I am sure he will

catch up with us later...byee Briee. See ya latah baked potatah.

*whistles* Hey Drivers!!! Sleeping on the job eh? We have places to go and things to see!

On to 762 Madison Avenue, between 65th and 66th Streets...pronto!

Here we are! Marie Belle's!

A supremely delicious chocolate shop in Soho. Treat yourself to a beautifully styled, two-piece box of artful chocolates or a tiny box of succulent loose tea.This shop itself feels like something straight out of the film, Amelie; Tiffany blue trim, old timey-glass cases filled with delicate chocolates and other tasty confections.There's also an adorable tea shop in the back that serves the most delicious hot chocolate and light crepes.

I have packages of their hot chocolate and their caramels waiting on each of you! Enjoy!

Oooh...smell that? Let's try out some of that...and how about this?

Wow is this place delectable! I don't know about you but all that chocolate has made me hungry! How about...

YES! Over there on that corner! A Gray's Papaya Hot Dog shop! Gimme one of the specials...wait. *2* of the specials with everything! Now THIS is a birthday!

We can sit in the window here, just like Meg Ryan did in You've Got Mail and watch the New Yorkers go by...Brian! There goes Brian! BRIAN!!! Gee but that man can run! He must still be looking for the perfect gift. What a sweetie pie.

Now that was dee-lish-ee-us! Hey! Is anyone else up for a little antiquing?

*whistle* Yo! Cabs!

Drivers? We are off to the Chelsea Antiques Building, 110 W. 25th St., near Sixth Ave. There we will find three floors of vendors selling all kinds of collectibles and antiques at all kinds of prices! I am bettin' we can find something to take home. We might even see Brian there looking for my gift!

Then it is over to 409 Bleeker where we will find Treasures & Trifles. Chock full of curios, lampshades, clocks and plenty of other odds and ends. C.Ned Kell and R.X. McCarthy, the two gentlemen who run the place, can help you find just the right chandelier for your townhouse or the perfect nightstand for your loft. You can also browse through a good collection of books of all literature here as well. Then it's time to hit Obscura! This gem is found at 280 e. 10th. There is no odder little store for housewares and accessories than this treasure trove of obscure, slightly nefarious antiques and collectibles -- and every now and then there is a gem of a find tucked away inside...you just might snag something phenomenal! LOOK! Is that Brian over there? Nah, it was just a big stuffed bear...well. He IS a big teddy bear right? *sigh* What say we do a little shoe shopping...I see Andi's eyes lighting up! Shoes for everyone! You all know what a big spender my Bill is...*cough*...and he wants each of you to have a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes! I am looking for a pair of stilettos in red sequins. How me! *cough* Um, well, it COULD be me right? Okay, but this next place IS me!

NOW we are talkin' baby! FAO Schwartz! I am just a big kid at heart...OKAY! A VERY big kid but I love a toy store and THIS is a TOY store!

Bill is giving you all one of these wonderful 2011 FAO Schwarz holiday bears! Isn't he cute and cuddly...kinda like Brian Denn...aw...where IS that man?

And what is just down the street from FAO's? Uh huh. Tiffany's! At

727 Fifth Avenue & 57th Street is Tiffany's. The most famous jewelry store in New York -- and maybe the world! This wonderful multi level store offers a breathtaking selection of jewelry, signature watches, tableware and stemware...all manner of beautiful things. Each item comes wrapped in that unmistakable blue box with a white ribbon tied just so.

See all of these boxes? They are all little gifts to you from Bill...each one of you is getting one of these signature Tiffany bracelets! You may have anything you wish engraved on the heart!

Isn't Bill a sweet guy?

Now, speaking of sweet guys, look around. We might find Brian in here looking for my birthday present!

I am famished! All of this shopping and buying does that to a girl. How about pizza? New York style pizza! Artichoke Basille's Pizza & Brewery can be found at E 14th St and this is what you will see... Are you drooling yet? I surely am.

Something sweet? Hey, it IS my birthday right? In the heart of Greenwich Village is The Magnolia Bakery. Which one of these frosting covered delights will you choose?

Now that we had a bite to eat and a little rest, let's take a walk in Central Park! We need to burn off some of these calories!

I love the Boat House...and what a beautiful place this is in the Autumn! Central Park is just one of the many wonderful places, people or things that make New York City so special! You know, there was a scene from one of Brian's films shot at the Boat House. Of course, most of F/X was shot in NYC.

Nah...I do NOT talk about Brian too much...nope. No way.

Oh look. There is the Central Park Zoo! Let's go inside and see some of the animals...

...hmm...or not.

Cheeky Monkeys...

What do I spy now? Whoo Hoo! It's the totally re-furbished Plaza Hotel. Isn't it grand? I see it is almost tea time! Bill has made reservations for all of us to have high tea at The Plaza! Let's go!

Let's peek in closer shall we? I'll just pass this tray around...take as many as you like and there are also 12 kinds of tea. Which one would you prefer? Well of course you may sample them all!

While we are here at the Plaza, let's take a peek into one of the rooms! Ssh...quiet now...

Nice digs huh? Hey! You girls stop jumping on the beds! We are not even supposed to be IN here!

Sheesh! Your manners!

Wow!

Look at that Central Park view!

Hmmm....does anyone have binoculars? I THINK I see Brian down there...and the sun is beginning to set. It gets dark so early this time of year!

But that doesn't have to stop us right? Not in the city that never sleeps!

After seeing your behavior in the hotel room, I think we could all use a bit

of sophistication, a bit of culture. Just over there is The Metropolitan Museum of Art

There is a stunning collection of Royal Porcelain on display right now...

Please DO be careful...I doubt Bill would want to pay for any broken bits of dishes! I have a surprise for you all! Bill was able to get us tickets to see the new, sizzling hit show on Broadway, Anything Goes starring Sutton Foster and Joel Grey! Now, now. Calm down! We are ALL going...sheesh.

Wasn't that fun? I will be humming those tunes for weeks! What? I can SO hum! I can sing too! Hmpf.

And humming always makes me hungry!

TAXIS!!!! What? You weren't asleep were you? You drivers have had it soooo easy today...*tsk tsk* What better place for an after theater dinner than Manhattan's Balthazar Restaurant.

Let's begin with some hors d’oeuvres...shrimp risotto with celery root and rosemary or roasted pumpkin ravioli homemade with brown butter, sage, walnuts and baby spinach.

For the salad course? Balthazar Salad with haricots verts, asparagus, fennel, ricotta salata and truffle vinaigrette.

Main course...your choice of the Balthazar Bar Steak,with pommes frites and maître d’ butter or béarnaise sauce or grilled chicken Paillard,with frisée salad, roasted tomato and Parmesan.

And then we will need something decadent to finish off our meal... The Pavlova, a baked meringue with warm seasonal berries or the Lemon Mille-Feuille with lemon grass granite and lemon parfait.

Hey! Let's all head to The Empire State Building!

I'll race you to the top! (Actually, I will take the elevator but don't tell anyone else...sssh)

Wow! What a breathtaking view!

I am pretty well worn out...you too? I think Bill got us rooms at a near by inn just in case we were too tired to fly home tonight. Yes, yes, he can get the tickets changed for us. NO problem. Bill is always eager to help! The 1871 House is a New York City style Bed & Breakfast Inn ... an Upper East Side boutique hotel in the heart of Manhattan. Located at the southern end of the Upper East Side, the house is nestled among stylish brownstones and stately Townhouses on a beautiful tree-lined residential block. Flanked by prestigious Park & Lexington Avenues, the house is set amid Manhattan's most elegant neighborhood on the Upper East Side and is just a stroll away from Central Park.

There are beds for everyone...

and you will find every amenity is provided!

Down pillows and comforters...and the rooms are just so pretty. It was a truly perfect day. Well, except that poor Brian just never found us! I am sure the dear man is bereft...Huh? Did anyone hear that knock on the door? I'll go!

What? Huh? You are from the city? Wha...uh...something from Brian? *sigh*

Well, a gift is a gift right? He included flowers right? At least he didn't forget me!

*sigh*

Thanks to all of you for spending the day here in New York City with me.

Somebody had to keep an eye on me right?

After all, I am now the big double nickle...yup. Susie Q is 55!

Hey? Are you all asleep? Is anyone else hungry?

That's Bananas!

2011-10-24T03:07:00.002-04:00

Ah...Autumn...and what's sounds better than hot tea and banana bread for breakfast?

Okay, so it sounds good to ME and I hope to you as well!

Here is the recipe I use!

1 1/4 cups sugar

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

2 eggs

1 1/2 cups mashed very ripe bananas (3 to 4 medium)

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

Move oven rack to low position so that tops of pans will be in center of oven. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease bottoms only of 2 loaf pans, 8 1/2x4 1/2x2 1/2 inches, or 1 loaf pan, 9x5x3 inches.

Mix sugar and butter in large bowl. Stir in eggs until well blended. Add bananas, buttermilk and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt just until moistened. Stir in nuts. Pour into pans.

Bake 8-inch loaves about 1 hour, 9-inch loaf about 1 1/4 hours, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Loosen sides of loaves from pans; remove from pans and place top side up on wire rack. Cool completely, about 2 hours, before slicing. Wrap tightly and store at room temperature up to 4 days, or refrigerate up to 10 days.

Grace and I are thinking about making mini loaves for the holidays! To make, grease bottoms only of 10 miniature loaf pans. Divide batter among pans (about 1/2 cup each). Bake 30 to 35 minutes.

You can also stir in 1/2 cup chocolate, chopped nuts, peanut butter, cinnamon or butterscotch chips into the batter for some yummy flavor combinations.

Now go brew that tea, get out some sweet butter, and enjoy!

Have a wonderful day!

Teeny Pumpkins

2011-10-22T14:15:00.000-04:00

Can you keep a secret? It ought to come in handy. Inside this little pumpkin is a treasure trove of candy. Just a fun little project for kids. Or adults who THINK they are kids like me. A sweet little give away on Halloween or grin inducing party favor that even the adults in the group will enjoy! We used them to ~BOO~ folks...you know. You leave a little something on a neighbor's

porch with a note that says, "You have been BOOed!"

It's pretty simple...after all. *I* can do it so you KNOW it's simple!

2/3 cup of assorted candies, such as candy corn and chocolate kisses Plastic sandwich bag 10-inch square of orange tissue paper (double layer) Two 10-inch pieces of raffia Green pipe cleaner Pencil

1. Put the candy in the plastic sandwich bag.

2. Place the bag in the center of the doubled tissue paper square. Pull the corners of the tissue together at the top and twist them into a stem.

3. To hold the tissue in place, wrap both pieces of raffia around the base of the stem and knot them.

4. To make the stem tendrils, wrap the ends of the pipe cleaner around a pencil. Twist the center of the curled pipe cleaner around the base of the stem as shown.

Just have FUN!

A Fall Fluff

2011-10-11T16:05:00.001-04:00

It is always such fun to begin the annual Fall Fluff isn't it?

Getting the front porch ready to greet each visitor...

Pumpkins, hedge apples, mini pumpkins and dried gourds.

And even Frank the Scarecrow is delighted to be of use once again..guarding

a pretty pot of mums!!

Then it's inside to fluff a bit as well. The mantle needed some Autumn themed goodies...

Here is a closer look at the little cast iron squirrel under an cloche. He even has his very own acorn!

Swap out some fabric and accessories for a more Fall like feel...and yes.

Henry is also very Autumn colored don't you think?

Our foyer with a few Autumn fabrics and decor added...burgundy plaid Wellies are a must!

Oh, the darker areas you see on the walls are where I am beginning to try my hand at faux peeling plaster.

I am slow but hopefully it will be done before Winter's end! *grin* Either that or we call the painters back who just finished the outside of our house!

The dining room table got fluffed as well...corn, mini pumpkins,

wooden fruit and pumpkins and bittersweet.

A few more areas to finish and then we will be adding some Halloween fun as well.

Are you busy doing your Fall Fluff too?

And It Arrived...

2011-10-10T09:34:00.000-04:00

...in all it's glory! Autumn! It's finally here!

So we spent much of this past weekend out enjoying the warmer than usual

October days, deep blue skies,

the rich Fall colors and being together as a family.

We recently bought a new van and I finally have Sirius Radio! Wow do I love it! So as we drove to some of our favorite spots we sang along to the music of the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s! Oh and we tossed in a little Broadway and some classic jazz as well. Sun roof open, great music, my family's laughter and the joy that is Autumn...

There is nothing better.

I hope your Fall is a sweet one and that you are finding much for which to be grateful. I so love to see you smile...you look SO pretty when you smile!

Let's Head To The Jungle!

2011-10-07T19:43:00.001-04:00

Jungle Jim's that is!

Jungle Jim's International Market, is a large supermarket in Fairfield, Ohio, near Cincinnati. Many describe it as a theme park of food! Founded in 1971 by "Jungle" Jim Bonaminio, the store started as a small produce stand, and has grown to over 180,000 items, about 60,000 which are international items, and over 300,000 square feet of floor space.

Jungle Jim's is a grocery store unlike any other. Aisles and aisles of fresh produce, wine and beer, artisan breads, exotic spices and cheeses from around the world. Enjoy freshly baked goods still warm from the bakery, food demonstrations and delicious samples. You will find 78 olive oils from Italy, Greece, Spain and France and teas from 15 different countries.

The aisle of hot sauces alone will amaze you! There are over 1400 different kinds!

If you can't find it here, you must not have really wanted or needed it!

And you know you are in for fun when the entrance sports a waterfall, giraffe, gorillas

and a water spewing elephant!

How can you not love a place with rest room entrances like this!

“I’m all about putting smiles on people’s faces,” said Jungle Jim’s

owner Jim Bonaminio. “People are so tense these days.

Those bathrooms just seem to make people laugh and that’s

what we’re all about: laughing and having fun.”

You will find food and drink from

Armenia, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, England, French, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Holland, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Morocco, Pakistan, Philippines, Romania, Spain, South-Africa, South-America, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Vietnam, West Indies, Yugoslavia and many others. Whether you're looking for imported Olive Oils, extra-aged Balsamic Vinegars, specialty imported Pasta and Pasta products, imported Coffees, Teas, or any other global delicacy, Jungle Jim's can meet your specialty product needs! We never leave without a cart full of food and fun!

Jungle Jim's has a world class walk-in humidor and a state of the art Cooking School as well as more goodies per square inch than I have found anywhere!

We took home a few apples...

...and treats for Winston.

Oh look! It's Elvis...and he is still in the building!

Olive Oils as far as the eye can see!

The hot sauce aisle is awesome! This brand's founder lives in my neighborhood!

And believe me, this stuff will curl your hair!

They call their hot sauce aisle the Aisle of Inferno, and it's outfitted with fire-fighting equipment in case the sauce is just a wee bit too hot!

You can visit France...England...Sweden...all around Asia...

...Greece...and never get out a passport!

You have never seen so much honey!

Or nuts!

Jungle Jim's has been featured on the Food Network show
Unwrapped, the History Channel show Modern Marvels and on Good Morning America.

Jungle Jim’s International Market is a place where the first rule is to treat customers well. We have always had good service and friendly faces. People come from several states away for the unique shopping experience Jungle Jim’s International Market offers! This amazing funhouse of a store draws 50,000 shoppers a week from many different states! If you ever near Cincinnati, stop by Jungles Jim's! Oh, and call me too. I will meet you by the Sushi Bar...or the Aisle Of Inferno...or the fresh seafood aisles...or...

For more info: http://www.junglejims.com/

It's Finally Here!

2011-09-23T19:08:00.000-04:00

It's here! Autumn is finally here! My favorite time of the year and

all the world seems bathed in a soft gold light...

Each leaf on every tree seems to explode with color...

The mornings are now "put on a sweater" chilly and are often bathed in mist...

I love the colors of each Fall treat...like Indian Corn!

Or delicious Autumn apples!

The pop of an orange pumpkin...

...or the glow of a sunflower.

Sunsets seem just a little more beautiful...

And what's better than jumping into a pile of freshly raked, oh so crunchy Fall leaves!

Venture down any country road and you will find farm fields filled

with warm, rich shades of gold & brown...

...orange & yellow...

...and red.

Uh huh...the world just seems more beautiful in the Autumn and I am

so excited to greet this magical season once again.

Each leaf...

Each pumpkin and gourd...

Each ear of corn...

There are so many wonderful things to cherish in the Fall. Among

my most favorite are these...

Quiet evenings by the fire playing games

Soft, warm flannel sheets on the bed

The glow of flickering candles

Fall festivals

The scents of cinnamon, oranges & cloves simmering on the stove

Pumpkins, gourds and Indian corn

Hot bowls of hearty soups and stews

Cozy robes and slippers at the end of the day

A hot apple fresh from the the oven

Chili and corn bread or warm polenta cakes

The wind rustling through the leaves

Caramel apples

Hot apple cider...

These are just a few of the things I love about Fall.

What are some of YOUR Autumn joys?

With love always...

Got Sunflowers?

2011-09-14T21:54:00.000-04:00

We sure do...so what better thing to do than make your kids go stand in

the field and pose for Mom!

Uh huh...

Hoping your September is filled with lots of sunshine!