Saturday, October 17, 2015

Mid October

 

Hi Folks ~ I hope you all are having an enjoyable day wherever you are. It is hard to believe the holidays are coming so quickly.  Have fun making plans and decorating, etc.

This past week or so has been busy for me.  My sis-in-law Sue, took me to a beauty store to check out Bare Essentials make up as I have been having a problem with adult acne.  Sue has used the BE make up for years. (I never had a problem with acne until after menopause, and it’s been worse since losing my Dear Husband. Stress and heat being big triggers.) Anyway, I had a nice young lady try some things on me and I ended up leaving there looking so much better and happier than when I went in. Also bought some items too. It has made a difference in how I feel when I go out. I watched some you tube videos too after I bought the Bye, Bye Redness by IT. That cream is really amazing I can tell you first hand. (I may do a post about this, before and after, but that remains to be seen). I never had to wear make up, only had a blemish once a month, so wearing make up is new to me. Sue and I had a good time, then we went out to lunch to Macaroni Grill, an Italian restaurant that has delicious food.

Next, I had the ladies group that I am part of and on the staff, ‘Bon Amis’ which means good friends in French, luncheon/meeting on Tues.  In November we are having a Thanksgiving potluck/meeting. Christmas we will be having a Christmas Tea. Our group of ladies supports Grandma’s Place by donating supplies and or $. We are going to be supporting a group that takes dogs from animal shelters, gives them to prisoners to be trained as helper dogs, which are then given to military Vets. I’ll tell you more about this organization as I find out about it. This past luncheon we had a 6 year breast cancer survivor speak to us, as it is breast cancer awareness month. We eat, of course, have a devotional, some uplifting readings, a game or two, pray and just have a good time together.

BSF Bible study was this past Wed. morning. Wed. evening I had a young man from church come fix my vents that let the a.c. air blow on you. He bi-passed a connection that was stuck so that just the defrost blower was working. Now I no longer have the defrost air, but I can carry a roll of paper towels with me for wiping windshield when needed, which hasn’t been very often down here. I now have a.c. blowing on me again while I drive and that’s more important.

Thurs and Fri I puttered around here, started and finished a heart for this young man and his wife, who just celebrated their first anniversary this month. I’m all for love and romance, so created this for them. It has seed beads, bugle beads and three fresh water pearls, plus the little silver hearts and silk ribbon roses.

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We had a very nice, heavy rain yesterday that lasted a good while so everything got a good watering. It isn’t any cooler this morning though, it is still very warm and humid out.  A.C. feels great.

Here are some flower pictures for you.  I know a LOT of you are putting your gardens to sleep, mine never sleep.

The first is ‘Cat’s Whiskers’.

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This is ‘Dotted Horsemint’, a newbie I bought in the spring.

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And this is one I just love, a new addition to my cottage gardens.  It is ‘Ruby Hibiscus’ or ‘October Rose’ (Hibiscus Radiatus).  The flowers are lovely and last just a day. This plant must be 10 ft. tall.  I need to cut it back for more blooms.

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Next are a couple or roses.

‘Louis Philippe’ or the ‘Florida Cracker’ rose.

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Climbing ‘Maman Cochet’.  This rose has a lovely scent that fills the air.

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Here are the latest photos of Miss Rosie.  I’m pretty sure she’s a she.

These first photos were taken yesterday morning. She was rolling all around my feet and ankles so that I couldn’t get a decent clear picture of her. I noticed that she has chocolate whiskers, never had a cat with those before. You can see a bit of the white hairs that she has.  They are under her front arms and there’s a bit on her tummy as well. Oh yea, the best part is she let me pick her up and I kissed her on top of her sweet little head.

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This was taken this morning from inside. I don’t think she could see me, but she might have sensed me looking at her. I zoomed in on her.  She’s sitting on the bench in the secret garden.

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Well, I need to get up and do some more ‘home-caring’ chores. I looked up FlyLady again this morning for inspiration.  Since losing my dear husband, I just don’t have much motivation to keep up with things.  It is very discouraging to say the least.

I took some photos of my craft space and will show before and after’s in a later post.

I hope to be participating in an indoor flea market during the next few months.  It is close to home. I will go through things here and see what I really can part with and make some $ while I’m at it. Hopefully.

That’s it for now.

Be thankful each and every day for all that God has blessed you with.

~ Happy Fall ~

FlowerLady

P.S.

I had to come back because I forgot to post this link to a cute video.

Cat’s Love Hugging

40 comments:

Terra said...

What a sweet little kitty with the bit of white hair. Your garden never sleeps, I know. I laughed because my garden doesn't really sleep but it "naps" in Dec. and January, ha ha.

Ruth Hiebert said...

Hope you are enjoying a good weekend. We had our first killing frost this last night,so no more flowers here.

Rebecca said...

What a happy post :)
Our Saturday turned out differently than expected. Mid forties temperature meant alternative activity today. Very peaceful & relaxing. Thankful.
Have a blessed Sunday, Lorraine.

Jane said...

Hi Rainey! We had a few snowflakes today, so yours will be the flowers I'll be enjoying for the next six or seven months.

I'm glad your little kitten befriended you. Very cute!

I had adult acne for a few months when my thyroid acted up. I discovered that dabbing a bit of peroxide on the area worked better than prescription and expensive drug store products for getting rid of it.

Hugs
Jane

Susan said...

That is an adorable photo of Miss Rosie. She is a real cutie! I'm so happy we never have to put our gardens to rest. I would really miss gardening through a long winter. We are very fortunate. You have many beautiful blooms in your garden this month. Enjoy your new little kitty. Don't wait too long to get her fixed or you may end up with more kitties.

Janice said...

Beautiful blooms, and I just love that hibiscus! Rosie looks positively regal in the last photo of your post, so queenly. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

susie @ persimmon moon cottage said...

I enjoyed seeing your pretty flower pictures today. It sounds like you have been very busy. I look at Flylady's writings every once in a while to try and get myself to be a bit more motivated for cleaning and organizing my home. It is easy for me to get sidetracked with other activities and let the house go. I am going to try and do better now that the weather and not too much going on with my flowers keep me inside more.

I love the way little Rosie is posing for pictures and waiting for you to come out and play. She has such a trusting, loving look on her little face. Cute bit of white frosting on her legs and neck. My mom used to be able to tell our male and female kittens apart, one looked like a (!) and one a(:), I don't remember which had what now. Something I knew when I was 10 years old, but don't remember anymore. I hadn't thought about that for decades and decades, and your post brought it to my mind today.

We are going into the 30's here near St. Louis, for the second night in a row. Anything tender that isn't covered will probably be done after tonight, so we are officially heading into Indian Summer tomorrow.

Tatyana@MySecretGarden said...

It is always bright in your garden Lorraine, and your blog is warm and cozy with your lovely craft and sweet kitten!

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

So nice of your sis-in-law to take you out for some beauty treatments. It's funny how your skin can react to life's stresses, isn't it? Hope this gives you new confidence, my dear. It sounds like your women's group is doing some very good works for some important causes. I love that. Your flowers are always amazing - love the cat's whiskers - and the real whiskers on your little Rosie. She's a charmer and I'm sure a very bright spot in your day. So nice of the young man to fix your AC. Your beaded heart is so pretty and I'm sure will be a treasured keepsake of the young couple's special day! Hugs and blessings xo Karen

Dewena said...

Miss Rosie looks very aware that she's found a good friend.

Like you, I had never been one to wear much makeup. Then one day a young friend took me to Sephora and I felt like I was in paradise! Like my life was going to change! Isn't that funny. It didn't really but I do like the results now when I take time to apply a few basics.

You lead such an interesting life! I need to stop being such a hermit and get out there and see people. I used to love going to BSF years ago.

Dewena

Carol- Beads and Birds said...

I am sure that little kitty is very aware of you watching her and taking her pic. I think she was posing for such a purrrrfect pic. I'm not sure I would like having a garden that never sleeps. Living in Northern Indiana has accustomed me to the thinking in terms of the circle of life. At the middle of October I am actually looking forward to the process of closing up the garden/yard and focusing on the inside. I really honestly think that as we age we lose motivation to do the things that I used to love, but to focus on what my aging body allows. Your post has me thinking "deep" as my grandson calls it.

Take care Rainey. Have a wonderful day.
xx, Carol

Jean Campbell said...

Yep, I think Miss Rosie is our Ike's kin. The white on their chests is very similar. There must be a roving band of Gypsy Kitties that cover the southern U S, gifting us with sweet pets.

RockWhisperer said...

And how many times have we heard cats are aloof and don't care about anyone but themselves. I've never known an unfriendly cat, unless it was scared spitless by something in their past. I wouldn't be surprised if Rosie is a girl, since people usually keep male kittens because it's the female that grows up and has more kittens. However, male cats spray and that can be pretty stinky if they are territorial about your porch or in your house. Best to get even the males neutered before they learn how to spray. But female cats make perfect companions and of course can be spayed so that they will not draw male cats and will not bring extra cats into the world. You might have to think about getting Rosie to the vet soon. You might try calling your local SPCA to see if they have a spaying and neutering program or know of a vet who does.

Love that dark red hibiscus! Hugs xoxoxo

Thistle Cove Farm said...

Rainey, I am so glad you have friends to go out with and places to go...it's a gift. My house is a wreck; I just get further and further behind.

Maryann said...

We are putting our garden to sleep but planing on spring blooms too. I have tulips bulbs cooling in my fridge that I'll plant in a couple of weeks and hopefully pansies to plant for the winter. You sound like your days have been full.
I am still trying to get started with a BFS, life has been kind of crazy and I have not been able to connect but I just talk to a lady at church today that goes to one just down the street, so I am going to try again. The couple we talked to were very excited to be part of it. October marks 5 years for me as a breast cancer survivor!
Keep those lovely flower photos coming, helps me get through the colder months. Have a wonderful week..Maryann

Leslie Kimel said...

I love the picture of Rosie on the bench. She is posing so nicely. It's so great that you can pick her up now!

Gardener on Sherlock Street said...

It is important to feel well in many ways. I use BE make up and love it. It blends so well.

Nice to see flowers. Still have some here as we haven't had a freeze yet.

Love that kitty too!

Have a good week.

Joy Junktion said...

I have used BE for many years and Love it! I hope you find it good for your skin. Your kitty is so cute, glad she is becoming more friendly, I guess she is yours now. Love your beautiful flowers! Many blessings, Cindy

Deborah Montgomery said...

What a lovely little cat. You two seem to be growing on each other, and she is becoming more trusting. Loved seeing the hibiscus flower -- we just got back from Hawaii, where hibiscus are everywhere, and so beautiful. It is cold here, and has even snowed north of us here in Michigan, so it has been a shock to come back to this!
I often go to organizing or cleaning blogs when I feel unmotivated to work around my house. They all make it sound so happy! Arg . . . I have to push myself, only because I do enjoy when things are clean.
Your outings sound nice, with friends and fellowship, and a chance to help others. The program with the dogs sound like a great idea, all around.
The heart will be a real keepsake for the young couple. Blessings, Deborah

Jessica Jarrell said...

I battle adult acne too. I was completely clear as a teenager, and then I hit 30. Boom. Acne everywhere. It's so frustrating! I use Bare Essentials too. I love how it looks like you aren't wearing makeup. It sounds like I need to look into that redness cream too, that's one of my primary complaints about my skin. Redness. I thought skin was supposed to clear up as you got older, what a rip! :-)

Cheryl said...

I am glad that you were able to get your car's a/c working effectively! The thoughts of a car with no a/c makes me cringe. It is that important!! :)

A garden that doesn't sleep seems the perfect thing for a "Flower Lady."

The heart you made for the young couple is lovely!

But mostly...I am loving Miss Rosie! How precious!! It seems like you have a friend there. Perhaps the Lord sent her to you?

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

So nice stopping by and catching up with you. Sweet beaded heart and so thoughtful of you. Pretty flowers and cute pics of Miss Rosie :)

Darcie said...

I'm always so glad your garden never goes to sleep. I come over during the winter to get inspiration and see all your pretty blooms.

So sweet to see Miss Rosie warming up to you! I knew it wouldn't be long. She is a pretty kitty, that kitty. :-)

Mrs. E said...

I wear more makeup as an adult now, too! Darn it!

You have been busy. Your Bon Amis group sounds like something I would love. A Christmas Tea sounds perfect!

Have a wonderful week!

Andrea said...

Hi Lorraine, am happy you are okay and doing well. I love most the colors of your hibiscus, i don't see that here. Thanks also for the kind words you left in my post.

KathyB. said...

Your little kitten looks like she did know you were watching her and she posed especially for you.

I am glad you got your air-conditioner vent fixed because there is one thing I cannot do...drive in a hot car without getting sick.

Celestina Marie said...

Looks like Rosie has found her home and warming up to you nicely. She is really a cute little one isn't she?? Love the pics you captured.
Your flowers are beautiful and how nice you have a long season to enjoy them. So glad your ac is fixed in your car. Love the beautiful beaded heart you designed for the sweet couple's anniversary. Very special treasure.
Have a blessed day and thank you for stopping by and your kind comments.
Hugs, cm

gld said...

You may not be as motivated now, but I am constantly impressed by how you have continued with your life. You cook, you craft, you garden, you keep your cottage lovingly, and you get out and about. You are to be congratulated!

I love the deep color of the new hibiscus.

Sweet kitty pictures.

Unknown said...

I'm just loving little Rosie; she seems so sweet and it's so lovely to have a companion outside. I love all your beautiful plants, especially that beautiful Ruby Hibiscus - so gorgeous! The climbing Maman Cochet is beautiful too. I would love to grow more roses as I feel every day I hear of a new one to try but there is only so much space! Sounds like you have some great social plans for the holiday season! Enjoy your garden and little Miss Rosie.

Kate

A Joyful Cottage said...

That video was so sweet, Rainey. The little gray kitten about half way through was one of my favorites. A sleepy little guy. . .so cute. The other was the cat under the blanket hugging the stuffed animal. Oh my! Adorable! That one big cat with the boy looked like a bobcat! Your flowers, as always, are gorgeous. The Hibiscus is a glorious color. I love the heart you made. Very romantic, indeed. Glad you had a nice day out with your SIL. Macaroni Grill has very good food. I used to go there a lot when I lived in Columbus, OH. Oh, I wanted to mention, too, how much I love Rosie in the Secret Garden. That photo's a keeper! Hugs, Nancy

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

I have always had sensitive skin...I use the Bare E face lotion in the winter when my skin gets incredibly dry.

And I still break out sometimes which I consider to be unfair. If I am going to get wrinkles and droopy eyelids and gray hairs then it is not fair to still break out, lol!

Rosie is adorable and your flowers are lovely! I just filled a huge garbage can with many dead annuals after our freeze this weekend, though we are warming up a bit now :)

Connie in Hartwood said...

There are times when I envy your year-round garden, but mostly I am glad to put mine to bed in the fall and to get through winter with anticipation and a heart full of grand plans. Your beaded heart is a lovely keepsake ... and Rosie, sweet Rosie ... She is so beautiful.

Eggs In My Pocket said...

You always have such lovely blossoms! I love the little heart you made! What a sweet kitty! You got a good photo of her!

June said...

I'm so happy to read that you and your SIL had fun together Lorraine! It sounds like a great time trying out a new make-up. I have my favorites too and although I usually only were make on my eyes (because I'm too lazy to do my face)but in my defense, I never go anywhere anyway :))) mine lasts forever.
I love the photos of your beautiful garden blooms. That cat whiskers is so lovely! And so is your darling kitty. I was happy to read that yours does that at your feet too. Whenever I go out, one of them come over and start rolling on my feet for attention.
I'm glad you have many friends you are able to enjoy during your weeks. That makes me so happy to read my dear!
sending hugs...

Yesteryear Embroideries said...

Such a cute little kitty! I love the heart you made. So sweet to make it for the couple! As always, you have the most beautiful flowers!

Melanie said...

I'm sorry to hear you are battling adult acne. Yes, stress can greatly contribute to that. So can your eating habits. If you are eating poorly, it will show through your skin. I hope you are eating healthy and taking care of yourself!

I wish my garden never slept, but with living in IL, that's an impossibility. I would love to have outdoor flowers year-round! I absolutely love that flower, Cat's Whiskers. Have never seen or heard of it, and it certainly does look just like a kitty's whiskers! And speaking of kitties, oh my goodness, that little girl kitty is just absolutely beautiful. I love that she is warming up to you and lets you pet her and give her attention now.

gld said...

This is interesting....as is the aging process.

There is something new weekly.

I am one of these people who has been wearing foundation since I was married. My dear MIL started me on using Merle Norman Cosmetics. I am forever grateful. Their base back then was zinc oxide and it has some sun protection value. I have cut way down and just use some lip color gloss and foundation, but I never go without the foundation. I think it helps even things out and makes me look better (hope it is not just in my mind!) I consider it something I do for myself and I enjoy it.

Nancy Shuman said...

Your flower photos are stunning. I'm so glad to have found your blog(s)!

Unknown said...

Lorraine, I just love Rosies new portrait on the bench! That's a framer for sure! You do a lot of good things with your ladies group, I love the idea of the dog training program. Gorgeous blooms! I'm always attracted to the spikey architecture of plants, so I'm especially loving your cat whiskers! We're getting a few cooler breezes lately...hope you will be too! Have a lovely weekend!

Karen said...

Rainey, Your little Rosie looks so much like my dear ol' Screech. He had the little white patch (we called it his underwear) and black whiskers. Adorable!

I'm glad you had the air fixed in your vehicle. So sweet of you to make the anniversary gift for the young couple. :-) Your ladies group sounds wonderful!