Our Back Porch

Some Like it PINK!!!

2012-01-20T18:08:00.014-06:00

Pink Saturday is always such fun...if you like pink! And let me tell you...some {ok, A LOT} like it pink!

I was beyond honored when Beverly asked me to be the Featured Pink Blog this Saturday! Thank you so much, dear pinky friend! So, if you haven't been to my blog before, let me introduce myself...

I'm Rebecca... a forty-six year old girl from the south! God has richly blessed me...I'm not worthy, but He thinks I am.

He has blessed us with two amazingly talented, grown sons.

If you are a frequent visitor here, you probably remember the wedding of our youngest son to the love of his life around Valentine's Day last year.

And with that beautiful union came a precious sixteen-month-old baby girl. The adoption process has already begun for my son to adopt this beautiful, now two-year old, girl.

My son is the only Daddy she has ever known, and boy are they crazy about each other! It brings such a smile to my face, and joy in my heart.

He is the BEST DADDY!!!

Being a "Gramma" is the most AWESOME thing ever! And I am LOVING shopping for a little girl!!!!!

We adore her, and she feels the same about us!

Our oldest isn't married yet, but does have a serious girlfriend. So we'll see!

Our "baby" still at home is our yellow Lab, Maggie Bleu. She is really in charge around here...she just lets us live here. {She LOVES PINK too!} bwahahahhaa

As far back as I can remember, I have collected something! And I have ALWAYS LOVED PINK!

It was dolls when I was younger...which has carried over into adulthood! The closest I got to a doll with my kids were GI Joes since I had boys...that is until now.

Now, I am collecting for my beautiful Kennedy Grace as well.

God is so good! I am truly blessed!

I adore time-worn treasures...anything chippy, shabby, tattered, and "well-loved".

...and I adore ROSES! Guess my name really suits me {Rebecca Rose}. lol

...and this is my miniature dress form, Bella Rose! I have a real dress from named Emma Claire.

I also collect vintage jewelry boxes, as well as, vintage bling to go in them!

I ADORE vintage millinery flowers!

A flea market is my favorite place to find these goodies! This Saturday is the Nashville flea market, so my bestie and I will be there with bells one!!! LOL

I'm a crafty kind of girl!

So many times, you can find me covered in glitter, glue, paint, etc. etc.

AND I LOVE TO TAKE PICTURES...CAN YOU TELL? BWAHAHAHAHA

I was away from Pink Saturday for a while...because "life happens"...but recently I have been back...and lovin' it even more! ! I thank you for stopping by, and now I need to blog hop around "pinky land" to visit you all!

I know I was suppose to have this posted by Friday at 3:00 {2:00 my time} but I'm usually home around 3:30 on Fridays...I don't know how to prepost...yikes! Then, I came home to a very sick hubby...had to run back out and get soup and juice. I'm staying away from him though so I don't get it. Bless him!

Thank you once again Beverly! You have blessed me through Pink Saturday, and I am so honored and humbled to have this chance to be featured!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Mosaic Monday

2012-01-15T23:54:00.000-06:00

It's been a while since I have participated in Mosaic Monday. But I'm back, and SO excited to be sharing again! Today, is my favorite subject....my precious two-year-old granddaughter, Kennedy. Being a Gramma is BEST thing ever! There is nothing like it!

Hope you enjoy my mosaic. Be sure to visit Little Red House to enjoy lots of mosaics!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

PINK Saturday!

2012-01-13T20:50:00.003-06:00

Last week was my first pink post in quite sometime. Oh how I've missed you all and your super fun pink posts! Life's just been a bit busy! Anyway, I was a little late to the party though, and only had a couple of visitors. Since so many didn't get to visit last week's pink post, I'm going to share it again because it was such a FUN one! So click the pink link below to go there.

ENJOY!

Haute and Cold

2012-01-13T00:03:00.001-06:00

Have you ever ordered from HauteLook? I've ordered A LOT from Zulily but this was my first order from HauteLook. I ordered a fab sheet set {it hasn't shipped yet} but they shipped the rest of my order.

I was SO excited to get this! It's Dimitri James! It was a SUPER price, and I love the colors!

It just arrived this afternoon, so I haven't had a chance to use any of it yet. I haven't even opened any of it...but tomorrow morning, I will! I can't wait!

I adore the eye and cheek colors!

And lip colors...MUAH! lol

I'll let you know how I like them!

And baby, it's c-c-c-old outside! This has been the mildest winter thus far...however, today winter finally arrived! It is freezing!

And we got our first snow!

LOL

I know, pretty pathetic snow...but we get excited here in the south at just the mention of the *S* word. LOL

Thanks for stopping by!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Pretty Pink Tea Party

2012-01-07T12:46:00.001-06:00

My sweet little granddaughter LOVES the princesses, so two of their friends bought her the same precious princess tea party sets! So, they decided to keep one at their home, and bring one to our house. That way she can enjoy tea parties with Gramma and Pa with her special princesses too!

This set is the cutest thing!

The pretty princesses adorn this sweet baby pink, hot pink, pearl, and baby blue tea set. I tell ya, it is TOO cute!

Well, I've seen the Elf on the Shelf wreak havoc in people's homes over the Christmas holiday, but little did I know that the princesses were going to throw a party in Kennedy's room here at Gramma and Pa's!

Take a look who was in attendance!

The Storybook Dolls arrived together.

They were in their prettiest dresses and finest hats!

Bella Rose was looking oh-so-fabulous!

The two velvet bunnies were so thrilled to be invited!

Even Maggie got in on the fun....hey...why didn't she let me in on the secret??? I LOVE parties!!!

AND the honored guest, Minnie Mouse!!! She even announced her courtship with none other than that lovable purple dinosaur himself...

BARNEY! However he didn't stay for the party.

Everyone ate...

and sipped tea, and had a GREAT time!

Now this is when I came in to discover the party in progress!

Hmmm...What exactly did those princesses put in the tea??? LOL

Happy Pink Saturday everyone. I'm a bit late to the party, but I am proud to be back with you ladies! Don't forget to go visit more pink posts at Beverly's!

Pink Saturday Blessings!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Year In Review

2012-01-04T18:22:00.001-06:00

I always enjoy the linky party, Year-In-Review, but I don't think Cindy is hosting that this year. So, I decided to go ahead and post mine anyway. As you can see, there is a lot of family photos. It was a fabulous year for our family...our youngest son got married, and with that we became instant grandparents to a most precious, 16 month old. It has been the most wonderful thing to be called "Gramma and Pa". Our oldest son has a new sweet girlfriend, and we have enjoyed getting to know her! We also got a wonderful new school building, and it is fabulous! I feel so blessed, not only to work with the most amazing staff and students, but to now have a wonderful new {green}school that our staff and kiddos sooooo deserve! Hubby has done very well with his classes, and will graduate from the radiology program this coming May! Yay! We are looking forward to another wonderfully blessed year! God has been so good to us! Best wishes to you all, my sweet friends, for a wonderfully blessed year, as well!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

New Year Blessings

2012-01-01T18:24:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year, friends!

I haven't blogged as much this past year, but one of my resolutions is to do better in 2012! I also want to get back to participating in Pink Saturday!

To bring in the new year, hubby and I went out to dinner...crab legs, scampi, and scallops...Yum-O! Cuddled by the fireplace aglow with candles...sipping chardonnay. I made it to midnight to see the ball drop...hubby was asleep way long before that! :)

May the Lord shower you with many blessings in the new year!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Merry Christmas To All!

2011-12-24T21:15:00.002-06:00

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12

Wishing you all a very blessed and merry Christmas!

Rebecca

Christmas Shopping

2011-12-11T12:21:00.002-06:00

How's your Christmas shopping coming? I'm doing ok, but need to step up the pace soooooon! lol

Shopping Blessings,

Rebecca

Halloween Candy

2011-10-07T17:12:00.001-05:00

My Halloween candy dishes are ready to house some goodies. I would have already had some in them but when I do that, I tend to grab a handful every time I walk by them. Please tell me I'm not the only one {other than my hubby} that does this. lol

Hmmmm...What kind of candy should I buy?

Perhaps some traditional Halloween candy such as.....

CaNdY cOrN

HaLloWeEn Mary Janes

cAnDy pUmPkInS

Or maybe some other all-the-time favorites like...

ChEwY sPrEes

Caramels are great ANYTIME!

Mmmmmmm-n-m's

CHARMS suckers are the BEST!!!!!

YuMmY fruity Tootsie Rolls

ONE of my favorite candy bars...

SNICKERS!

Or probably my FAV candy of all time

SUGAR BABIES, baby! lol

So, what will you be putting in your Halloween candy bowls???

Sweet Sugary Blessings,

Rebecca

Beginning To Look Like Autumn

2011-10-05T09:18:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhh...my favorite time of year! This is my first week off for Fall Break, and I'm lovin' it!

On Monday, I started bringing out my fall decorations. I just adore the vibrant colors of autumn.

I hope you are enjoying lovely fall weather where you live!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Cheery Cherry Sunday

2011-09-18T14:02:00.000-05:00

Just sharing some of my favorite cherry pics that I have found recently. Enjoy!

Cheery Cherry Sunday Blessings,

Rebecca

Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho...

2011-08-10T18:58:00.001-05:00

It's back to work we go!

Well actually, I started back on July 20th and had students on July 27. As you know from a previous post, we got moved into our brand new school building at the beginning of summer. I didn't start decorating my room however, until we returned on the 20th...I had to recoup from all the moving we did from the old school.

Since we are a green school, I decided to do something along that line for my class theme this year.

I chose OWLS...you know, "Give a Hoot! Don't Pollute!" {Am I dating myself here or what?! lol} The kiddos LOVE it! Actually, the above pic was taken before we got our class list, so names aren't on the owls in this pic.

Anyway, I thought I'd better pop on here and let you all know that I haven't forgotten you all, my sweet bloggy friends! It's just been crazy here at the beginning of the new school year, and on top of that, learning and figuring out new procedures for the new HUGE school building!

So, I'll just let you all browse around my classroom now. I hope you enjoy the tour.

I'll try to do better on my blogging once we really get settled into school. Thanks for not giving up on me, and for checking in! Have a blessed rest of the week, and weekend.

Waving from Our Back Porch,
Rebecca

Little Pink Houses For You And Me...

2011-07-15T22:30:00.004-05:00

Isn't that how John Cougar Mellencamp's song goes?

What fun it would be to live in a PINK house!!! Dontcha think? Take a look at these wonderful pink houses that I found. I ask you "What could be better than a PINK house?"

Well, maybe a PINK house with AQUA trim !!!

How about a PINK house with a matching PINK bike ?!!

This one would be nice if I could just find the door !!! lol

This one is just darling !!!

Isn't this a cute little thing ? Precious !!!

This one...NOT so small!!! Gorgeous !!!

I adore this one!!!

I don't really thing a PINK house is in my future. I don't think hubby would agree to it !!! lol But...it's sure fun to dream!!!

So, I suppose this little PINK house that I created will have to suffice. :)

I'm linking to Beverly's Pink Saturday. Drop by and pay her a visit. You'll be glad you did !!! HAPPY PINK SATURDAY, EVERYONE !!!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Prairie Chic Cuff Bracelets

2011-07-12T20:48:00.010-05:00

I have been admiring the cuff bracelets that I have spied on many blogs and etsy shops. The secret is...I don't sew. I don't even own a sewing machine. In my younger days, my Mom tried to teach me. I at least was able to sew some straight lines. So, I guess if I did have a sewing machine, I could have done this...but I don't so I didn't. LOL

The next best thing for me is the great fabric glue that I have. I have created many things {successfully, I might add} with this glue. So, I decided to give it a try.
AND IT WORKED!!!

Ok, so what I did was this. I took a sweater that was a bit snug, and was going to end up at Good Will or in a yard sale anyway. I cut the cuffs off of the sweater. Now, this sweater is my size, so it already fits.

I used the glue to began layering my lace and crochet scraps. I adore the mixtures of creams, ecru, and whites.

I pulled out some cream/white bits and bobs. I tried A LOT of combinations until I found one that pleased me.

I picked some vintage millinery flowers from my personal hat garden, and added some here and there. Once I got everything arranged to my liking, I began to glue them in place.

I made one, and then another.

And then another and another...I was on a roll !!! LOL

I even made a couple from some "old" button down collar shirts that were ready for GW, as well.

I made a rosette out of the shirt, as well, for this one.

I love the way this one turned out.

So, there is a quick version of the cuff bracelet.

Now, I call mine "Prairie Chic". If that's not the correct term, please correct me. What would you call it?

I'm participating in White Wednesday at Faded Charm Cottage. Head on over and check out all the Wonderful White Wednesday posts. Thanks to our wonderfully, gracious hostess, Kathleen, for always providing such a fun Wednesday event.

I'm also joining my sweet bloggy friend, Michella at Michella Marie, for her very first Show Me How Friday!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Vintage~y Fun and A Birthday!

2011-07-11T23:25:00.008-05:00

Today has been a vintage~y fun-filled day.

29 years ago, a precious baby boy was born. He was a tiny little fellow, weighing in at only 5 lbs. 13 oz. There wasn't any such thing as "premie" clothes, even though he wasn't a premie, as he was right on time. He was just a small little guy. Never in my dreams did I think he would clear 6 ft. but he has...and a size 13 shoe. lol What a blessing he has always been...so easy to get along with, caring to others, just a good baby, a good kid, and a good young man!!! A young Christian man who loves the Lord. Can you tell I'm one proud Mama? :)

Since Kenny had to work tonight, we asked Brandon to meet us for a birthday lunch instead of a birthday dinner. We met at the Sweet Aroma Cafe. This little cafe is locally owned, and a big hit in our small town. It is located in "The Shoppes at Coker" building. This use to be the Coca~Cola plant when I was young. Now, it is home to some wonderful little shops { The Silver Mine, Simply Raven, Consigning Women, and Classy Clearance} as well as, Kneading to Unwind which is a swedish massage, and Sweet Aroma Cafe. Their food is awesome {especially the chicken salad on a croissant and crunchy green pea salad} and their peach or pomegranate sweet tea is fabulous!!! The whole place is just a really neat place to shop and eat...with lots of old Coca~Cola memorabilia on display.

Happy Birthday to my wonderful son, Brandon. We are so blessed to have you as our son!!!

This afternoon it's been so HOT {the heat index was 110}...oh,who am I kidding...it's been hot all day long. This morning when I first went out, the heat just hit me full force!!! Even tonight it's miserable out. So, feeling drained, I just curled up in my "corner"...you remember my corner I shared with you recently...and reread my new Flea Market Style magazine that I finally got this week. And look at the little drink I had...I drank the Raspberry Martini one today...isn't it in the cutest can? It may be hard to see but at the top of the can it says "Vintage". It was so cute, I couldn't pass it up. I had the Lime Margarita yesterday. Don't get too excited...they are "mocktails"...yeah, that means nonalcoholic...but that's ok by me...I'm not a drinker {except a glass of wine at a wedding or something, which isn't often}. Anyway, I found these at KMart the other day for a dollar. The raspberry one was the best.

Hope you've had a vintage~y kind of day.

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

A Junkin' Jaunt and I'm A Basket Case

2011-07-09T23:28:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I found myself on a "Junkin' Jaunt" by accident. I was out running errands like paying bills, getting groceries, etc...just an ordinary noneventful day. My car just seemed to take on a mind of its own...heading to the nearest junk it could find. LOL

And boy, was I a basket case after that. LOL Just look at these sweet little finds that came home with me. This little white one is such a cutie. Maybe it will hold soaps or lotions in my guest bath.

*Sweet*

I especially love this pale green one with the swinging handle.

And ALL of them were only $1 each.

Lots of glassware...jars, glasses, bottles, etc.

These two in particular caught my eye...it's a label thing. I have always been drawn to anything with a neat label. Aren't these cool?

Look at this one up close. There are a couple of old stickers on it that need to come off, but I'll take great care when cleaning this baby so that I don't disturb the wonderful label on this fabulous green wine bottle from Portugal.

Oh, and this little peach of a jar. Remember, it's a label thing...just drawn to the wonderful, colorful graphics.

Oh these tiny oil lamps are too cute...and 2 for a dollar. Yep, they went in my box too.

Then I found this little precious piece. I'm drawn to things with children, and these are too cute...they're little angels.

Look at their little backsides. Look how they are hugging each other. Too sweet. But these little cuties are going to get a makeover...yep, getting my creamy white spray paint out again. And I'm thinking this piece will end up in my shop...but who knows...it might just need to stay with me for a bit. I'll be sure to share them again once they get their transformation.

And my deal of the day.....

Yep, a framed cottage print. You know how I adore cottages." Now, here's what happened with this... There wasn't a price on this picture, so when paying for my goodies, I asked the girl how much it was. She quoted a price of $2.99. Yes, I'll take it please! But just then she dropped it..yes DROPPED it, and it broke...YES BROKE the glass! She apologized all over herself, and said, "Well, now it's 99 cents...do you still want it?" "Uh, YES PLEASE." Even better...it looked just fine when we took all of the glass out. The frame will get a makeover too, and you guessed right if you said my creamy white spray paint again. But this one will stay with me for sure. I'll post a pic of it too when it has it's makeover.

So, this was my haul for the day...a grand total of $15...my junkin' jaunt accident that turned out to prove for an eventful day after all.

And on another note...I hit 200 Followers! Woo Hoo! Actually...I'm at 202 now! Thank you all so much!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Sweet Shabby Birds and Roses

2011-07-08T00:12:00.004-05:00

When I purchased this sweet chippy white frame, I didn't have a particular picture in mind for it. I knew one day though, I would find just the right one.

What could be sweeter than the chippy white color?

And this scrolly base with scrolly legs?

And the wonderful top?

Can't get enough of that distressed look!

So, what could be sweeter than this little frame {which I might add is a HEAVY thing!}???

Well, I think this little bird is even sweeter!!!

And these large fabulous roses are sweeter!!!

Ok,maybe the WHOLE thing is sweet!! Yep, I knew I'd find the perfect picture one day! And here it is!

Today, I am linking to

Home Sweet Home

Show And Tell Friday

Feathered Nest Friday

Oh, and if you aren't a follower yet, won't you please consider it? I'd be happy to return the "follow"! Just four more until I get to 200 !!!

Happy Friday Everyone!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Favorite Things

2011-07-07T00:42:00.002-05:00

...and just 1...2...3...4... more followers until 200!!!!!

Vintage Thingy Thursday

2011-07-06T20:47:00.001-05:00

Vintage Goodies...

I got these from my Mom. I treasure anything that belonged to her! My little rosebuds have opened up today. I just love them!

Watt bowl in the apple design

Salty and Peppy shakers... I adore them!

I found this sweet little sifter on Etsy a few years ago.

Vintage white vase that I got at a yard sale...

...that I filled with a few of my daylilies.

Today, I am linking to
Vintage Thingy Thursday.

There are lots of great vintage "thingies" to be seen so head on over!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Rosey Lil Cheeks

2011-07-05T22:27:00.003-05:00

This sweet little girl was a recent find at a local antique mall. As soon as I saw her, I knew she had to come home with me.

Maybe it was that sweet little face and rosey little cheeks that I couldn't resist.

Perhaps it was the bouquet of creamy white, pink and red roses that I truly adore.

It could have been that I loved her little scuffed shoes with the precious rosettes!

Maybe it was her pretty little dress in the creamy-white color that I adore!

And it couldn't hurt that she was only $4.00!

Now, I just need to find a sweet frame for this sweet little rosey-cheeked girl!

Happy White Wednesday, everyone! Be sure to visit all the other wonderful bloggy friends that have their whites all ready to show you too! Just head on over to Faded Charm Cottage!

Rosey Blessings,

Rebecca

Hurray For The Red, White, & Blue!

2011-07-04T15:48:00.002-05:00

"Where liberty dwells, there is my country."

*Benjamin Franklin

"Then join hand in hand, brave Americans all!

By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall!"

*John Dickinson

"I prefer liberty with danger to peace with slavery."

*Author Unknown

"From every mountain side,

Let freedom ring!"

*Samuel F. Smith, "America"

"My patriotic heart beats red, white, and blue."

*Author Unknown

"You're a Grand Ol' Flag"!

"...and the flag still stands for Freedom, and they can't take that away..."
*taken from Lee Greenwood's "Proud To Be An American".

Thank you to all who have and are now serving our wonderful country.

Happy Birthday, America!

God Bless The U S A !

Happy Independence Day, everyone!

Have fun and stay safe!

Waving the flag from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Go To Your Corner!

2011-07-01T02:14:00.005-05:00

Ok...I'd be happy to go sit in the corner...especially when it is this corner! teehee Yep, you spotted the mantle that I got for a whopping $0!!! After getting a good coat of spray paint, it found a good home here in my little corner.

I have been trying to decide what I wanted to do in this area for a while. It's a quiet place for reading a book, poring over decorating magazines, grading papers, listening to someone play the piano {since I don't},or just daydreaming.

A few other treasures got a makeover with the same ivory spray paint.

I think it's the perfect place to hold my sweet grandbaby and read books together. She even has her own little chair that she loves to sit in!

Great vintage alarm clocks find a home atop a wonderful glass-topped clock table. None of them work, but I think that could be a good thing...you know...time standing still...no place to be...just sitting here daydreaming! Ahhhhh

There are so many possible backdrops in this room to "showcase" seasonal/holdiay decorations.

Happy Birthday, America...

and Happy 4th of July, everyone!

Today, I'm linking to:

Home Sweet Home

Show and Tell Friday

Feathered Nest Friday

Vintage Inspiration Patriotic Party

Now, I think my corner is calling to me..."Come and sit a spell" it seems to say. "Ok!" I reply. "I think I'll do just that!"
Stay Safe and Enjoy, Everyone!

Waving from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

P is for Patchwork

2011-06-28T01:12:00.000-05:00

Some of my favorite childhood memories involve creating things out of a variety of items. {I always loved making collages too, which is somewhat similar!}

The first memory I have of creating something like this, was from second grade. Our teacher had us bring in ribbon, lace, scraps of material, pipe cleaners, felt, etc. I can remember sitting with my best friend creating a picture of a little girl from pieces of felt, ribbon, material, buttons, etc.

One of my favorite gifts when I was young came from a relative that had brought back a doll purse from the Phillipines. She was made of straw and was created with pieces of fabric.

I am still drawn to art that has been created from scraps of material. It's really cool how simple things from childhood can carry over to adulthood like that.

I found this little picture at a local shop several years ago. It found a home in my kitchen right away. It just makes me smile!

Are you drawn to anything in particular that stems from a childhood love or treasure?

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

A Charming Cottage!

2011-06-23T00:29:00.001-05:00

English cottages are so appealing to me. From the cross gabled roof that has a steep pitch to the small cozy interior with lots of nooks and crannies, I find them whimsical and charming, as well as, romantic and picturesque! And if you have an English cottage, then in my opinion, an English garden must accompany it!

My dream is to live in an English cottage someday. I could get lost in thought for hours making plans for decorating my little home.

My dreams continue into the yard, as I wander through my gardens of foxglove, climbing roses, wisteria, delphiniums, daisies, honeysuckle and lavender.

I suppose that is why I adore collecting prints of English cottages with wonderful gardens. Since I don't really have the chance to actually live in one now, the wonderfully framed pictures can help me conjure up thoughts of roaming through an informal, English garden that has the feel of charm and grace, and looks like Mother Nature haphazardly placed the plants and flowers. I envision a slow-paced simple life, enjoying the every day beauty and blessings that God has place around me.

Well, off to bed I go, with hopes of visions of sipping tea by a lace covered window, peering out at the sheep in the English countryside.

What will you be dreaming of? Whatever it is, I hope it is something that makes you happy, cozy, and warm inside.

Blessings,

Rebecca

Special Fathers

2011-06-19T02:51:00.000-05:00

When it comes to fathers, I have been most blessed in that department.

Not only do I have a wonderful Daddy myself, I have a hubby that is a wonderful Daddy to our boys.

And because of great examples, I have a son who is now a wonderful Daddy, as well.

And I can't leave out my precious father-in-law, the late Jim Wrinn. He always called me his daughter-in-love. Oh how I miss him!

My Daddy has always been there, setting a great example of a hardworking, honest, caring man.

He has always been there for me, and my family, through thick and then...always giving unconditionally!

He has been through so much, especially within the last year when he suffered a stroke, began therapy, lost his precious wife...my beautiful mother, moving in with my family and me...then moving to live with my sister and her husband, and then moving back with them to live in the house where we grew up.

He is a man of honor, courage, and love. I just hope he knows how much I admire and love him! Just as I told him at the hospital right after his stroke, when he was determined to work hard to overcome it, he is my HERO!

My sweet husband learned about being a Daddy from having such a wonderful one himself.

He has always been such a hardworker and good provider for his family...and always there to give the boys a hug, a pat on the back, or an "atta boy!"

He was so proud and patient when each son wanted to learn to play guitar, and they have played music for many different venues together over the years.

A Daddy was is always there to help the boys in whatever is going on in their lives at the time...always trying to find the good in things. A Christian man who seeks the Lord's will for his life.

Then just a few years ago, due to the economy, he lost his job. That is hard for a man when they aren't able to provide for their family. However, after seeking God's will and lots of encouragement, he decided to go back to school, at the age of 50. He has worked so hard, and was accepted into the Radiology program at the college of his pick. He has never faltered in his belief in hardwork. He has thrown himself into his schooling, has soaked it up like a sponge, and has had several special recognitions. He is in his last year, and will be back to providing for his family and enjoying his new career, no doubt!

He is already a great "Pa" to our first grandbaby! Oh, how I love this man!

And it continues...now our youngest son, who recently married the love of his life, who has a baby girl, has become an amazing Daddy in such a short time. To read about their story, you can go here to a recent post that I shared about them.

Oh how this young man adores his little girl which is returned by a little one that loves this man that has always been the only Daddy she has known.

He's been there from the very beginning!

He is a Daddy that seeks God's will for his life, takes his family to church, prays with them, and helps teach his little one about Jesus.

And if she should decide she wants to learn to play guitar, I have no doubt that he will do so with such love and patience with his little girl!

I am so proud of my son, and know that he will always be there for his daughter and other children they may have in the future.

Thank you to all these special fathers and grandfathers who aren't just "fathers" but are daddies who love their children and who have their children's love in return!

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies out there!

Father's Day Blessings,

Rebecca

Glider Overboard!

2011-06-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

My doggy, Maggie, and I have been lazy today. Everyone was out of the house until early afternoon. So we cuddled up on the bed and settled in to watch a movie. A weather alert began to run across the top of the screen...severe thunderstorm headed our way.

I am always up for a good thunderstorm...and soon it began! I ran to the bathroom window, as where we were at, we could see the trees swaying! And boy! Was it ever raining! There were even a few pieces of hail...which I can do without. lol

As I walked back toward the bed, I caught a glimpse out the bedroom window. Something wasn't right in the backyard but I couldn't tell what it was from this view.

So, I peeked out the other bedroom window...and that's when I saw it clearly.

Glider Overboard!

Our glider was knocked over backwards. We'll have to get that back up when the storm lets up enough to go out!

Well by now, we were more interested in the storm than the movie...well at least I was...Maggie, not so much! So we abandoned our movie, and headed toward the screened porch...and yes Mags accompanied me...of her own free will! lol

I do LOVE to be on our back porch...especially during a thunderstorm!

{the white strip down the pic, above, is actually part of my screened porch}

And we sure needed the rain!

Ahhhhh...such blessings!

Rainy Day Blessings,

Rebecca

Here Come The Brides

2011-06-10T04:36:00.007-05:00

Stephanie at Angelic Accents is hosting her 2nd annual Wedding Blog Party. Who doesn't love a wedding? So, I just had to join!

I have decided to share two Valentine weddings. The first one would be mine which happened on February 14, 1987. The second one was twenty three years later on February 12, 2011, which was our youngest son's wedding.

Kenny and I dated for 1 1/2 years before we married. By the time we got engaged, we had seven months to plan our Valentine's Day wedding. We chose red, as it is both of our favorite color, and the traditional Valentine color.

This is one of my favorite wedding photos! I'm sure you can tell by the hair and the ruffles that it was the 80's! Wow! Kenny's hair was so black then, and he was sporting a full beard, as well!

Here's my wedding gown, 24 years later.

Here's a pic of my train. It has all the ruffles that the neckline has. Gotta love those frilly frills!

This is a closeup of the waistline. Wow! Was my waist really that tiny?!? Sure wish I could wear that size today! lol

I opted for silk flowers...and 24 years later they still look beautiful! Don't get me wrong; I LOVE real flowers, but I wanted this as a keepsake. The bouquet base has pearls and crystals. Can't you just see this on my 50th Anniversary table in the distant future!?

This is my ring pillow. My sweet little boy, Brandon (age 4 1/2 then, almost 29 now) carried this! So special!

Kenny and I both love the color red, and with it being Valentine's Day, it was perfect. As I said before, we got engaged 7 months before our wedding but I didn't get my ring until Christmas Day before the wedding. He came to my parents' home for Christmas morning and he put my ring in my breakfast drink. LOL Thank goodness I didn't swallow it! hee hee It was awesome! When Kenny told me he wanted to marry me, he told me he wanted to be Brandon's father too. I knew he was the one for sure!! Brandon's father has never been in the picture, so now he was getting a Daddy on this day, as well! On our beautiful wedding day, we exchanged rings, and Brandon got a ring also. It was so cute! He was so proud. Of course Kenny adopted Brandon, and 9 months, 9 days later, our sweet little Blake (now 23) was born!

I have to say that I love this man more and more each day. He is always there for me, and takes care of us soooo well!

Now on to wedding number two.

~Blake and Carrie~

Blake and Carrie were introduced by friends about six years ago. {O*M*G, they look like babies in that pic!} They were both seniors in high school. However, they lived hours apart. Theirs started out as friends and evolved into dating a bit.

Over the next several years, they talked and dated on and off. Long distance relationships are hard...but can be done! Blake went to our community college, while Carrie went to the University of Tennessee {go Vols!} They maintained their friendship, talked, and tried the dating thing again. They dated other people and didn't talk for a short time. During this time Carrie became pregnant. This was something that happened because someone took advantage of her. Just about that time Blake said, "She is the one. I'm going to Knoxville!" At that point she had just found out and told him upon arrival. {The father was out of state, and she had no contact with him.} That didn't change Blake's mind. He loved this girl!!! Blake always told us that Carrie was the one. He said God was telling him that she was it, and he knew he would marry her someday!

Carrie gave birth to Kennedy Grace in October of 2009, and Blake was there when she was born. He loves that little girl as his own.

Over the next year, Carrie finished college with a degree in advertising and a minor in business. Blake went into Emergency Medical Service training.. Every weekend he made the 3 hour drive to be there for his girls on the weekends.

They began to "talk" wedding but no real plans or anything. They planned a photo shoot of the three of them so they would have pictures for their "someday" home.

However, Carrie had no idea that Blake was about to pop the question. It was perfect!!! Carrie was totally surprised, and of course...

she said YES!

In October, they had their engagement pictures done.

Now, that's trust! lol

These two lovely ladies are heading to the Rehearsal!

Practicing what to do and where to stand {this wasn't the preacher, she was just a stand-in}

Kennedy hung out with her new Daddy and new Uncle Brandon.

And on his wedding day, this little girl was the most precious little 16-month -old flower girl.

She came down the aisle and right into her Daddy's arms.

Blake was getting teary-eyed.

There wasn't a dry eye in the house...and when Carrie walked down the aisle to Blake who was holding her daughter, the tears only flowed even more. Blake was a "waterworks" at this point. PRECIOUS!

Carrie and Blake's first dance was so sweet...

but when Blake had the first dance with his daughter...

even the men were sobbing! lol

It was like a fairytale, indeed!

Such a beautiful couple!

The open road is before them, the possibilities are endless!

Thank you for joining me for my wedding stories. A great big thanks to Stephanie for inviting us all to take part in her beautiful event! Be sure to head over to Angelic Accents for more wonderful wedding stories and photos!

Blessings to all,

Rebecca

I'm Not "Old School" Anymore

2011-06-09T09:23:00.000-05:00

I'm "NEW SCHOOL"...

Our brand new school is ready to move into!!! We are SUPER excited! We are the first "Green School" in Tennessee!!! Which probably means lots of visits from others, but that's fine! We always welcome visitors!!!

Our new school was constructed behind our old school. So this past school year was a hard one...to say the very least! We lost our playground in the back, and a temporary one was constructed in the front....just to be taken away as they had to dig and do whatever it was they had to do. lol Our parking was limited, and afternoon pickup was a nightmare! But we made it through it!

For weeks, we have all been purging and packing...purging and packing...and did I mention purging and packing? lol And then yesterday...we got the call...the call that would change everything for our school...FINALLY the letter of occupancy arrived, and we could MOVE IN!!!!! You can't even imagine the hustle and bustle yesterday of all the teachers and staff with the help of maintenance! And we got-er-done!!!

Now, you have to understand our excitement over little things...like a DOOR and a WINDOW!!!!! That's because we had NO windows in our classrooms...NO door to our classrooms. This was the "open" concept many, many moons ago!!! We had SOME walls to our classroom, but then one wall was actually partitioned off with rolling dry erase boards. Another class was on the other side of those boards!

I'm heading back over today to work in my NEW room that has a DOOR and a HUGE WINDOW in my NEW school! Yep, I'm happy to be called "new school"!!!

So, I better scoot now because I have boxes to UNPACK now! When we have our Open House, I will take tons of pics to share with you of my finished room and the whole school building!

Hugs and Blessings,

Rebecca

Ugly Duckling...to White Swan

2011-06-07T23:57:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I have jumped on the spray paint bandwagon! lol I have been collecting a few odds and ends for a while that I wanted to paint. Now that summer is here, I have been busy doing just that.

Sometimes I am so good about taking before and after shots, and then sometimes...I get so excited and anxious to start, that I simply forget. Well, that's what happened here. Imagine a green so ugly...the ugliest green you can think of...not a pretty green that many of us use these days...but the ugliest you can think of...now add some black specks and grey flecks...and that's what this little piece looked like before. When I found this for just $4.00 I didn't know exactly what I was going to do with it. I knew I wanted to paint it white, actually ivory, but I wasn't sure where I'd put it...if I'd sell it, etc.

But now, it has found a home in my kitchen and has the most important job of holding some of my cookbooks. I think it will probably stay here for a while!

I think it turned out really cute! What do you think?

Another find...that wasn't so pretty...was this brass candle chandelier. I sprayed it white, and I'll be adding some crystal tear drops, candles, and such. I still need to give it one more round of spray paint, and then I'll decide where this little cutie will go. I'll be sure to show you how this turns out when I get it finished.

So that brings me to the last part of my post for today. I have been wanting to find a fireplace mantle {only} for quite some time now. I never have been able to find one that was just right {style, price, etc.} until today! We have a brand new school...the first "green school" in Tennessee so we've been busy moving out. With that, there has been much packing and discarding! I have always loved this little white mantle that was in our teacher's lounge. So, when I walked in there today it had been taken down. Hmmmmm...was this going in the discard pile??? Now, I was on a mission. I needed to hunt down the person that owned this little gem. As I walked around the corner, I almost bumped into her. I asked what was going to happen to it, and she asked if I wanted it. Uh, yeah!!! lol She said, "It's yours!" I was thrilled! I asked how much {as many of our things are going in our school yard sale to raise some money}. I knew this was the right one...but was it the right price???

Well, she answered me...with her quote of the price.

Was it too good to be true???

What do you think???

How much would you pay for this???

Well

to see

how much I paid

first take a guess

go on...take a guess!

I'm not telling you just yet...

so take a guess!

Well, the price that she quoted me was...

you didn't think I'd give you the answer that quick

did ya???

Well, did ya???

LOL

Well, the price she quoted me was...

Keep scrolling...

Just a little more...

A big whopping...

dollar amount...

of...

$0.00!!!!!

Yep, that's right!

FREE!!!!!

O*M*G

So this will be my next project...it needs a little work, but it will still end up being white! I haven't brought it home yet, so I snapped a couple of pics at school so I could share a sneak peek with you...But it will make its way to my house by the end of the week...So check back soon to see what I do to it!

Now, for more whites...head on over to

White Wednesday!

You'll be glad you did!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

Simple Joys

2011-06-05T20:51:00.001-05:00

Sometimes we get so caught up in our every day lives and the hustle and bustle that sometimes we miss out on some of the most simple joys right in front of us. I know I do.

This afternoon has been a relaxed one...no hurry to do anything or get somewhere. I enjoyed a small nap after church and just watching and listening to the rain on our back porch. When I looked around, there were such wonderful simple things surrounding me. And it was really nice to be still and quiet for a while just taking in those simple things that bring joy if we just take time to notice.

Some sweet little purple petunias {that I need to get in a pot} that one of my students gave me on the last day of school.

Birch trees that we wish we had more of in the backyard. They are such cool trees!

A yummy birthday cake milkshake from Zaxby's {that I just finally tried recently}. Yum-O! Sooooo perfect on a hot day like this afternoon!

And my most special doggy...my little shadow...who was lying on the floor by my feet when I was on the back porch, and then in her chair when we came indoors.

Next time when you are quiet and still, look around and see all of the simple joys that surround you.

Many simple blessings,

Rebecca

WATT Did You Say?

2011-06-04T21:11:00.002-05:00

I have a passion for Watt Pottery {more specifically the apple design}. I have loved this pottery for many years. When I was little, my Mom owned a bowl with the apple design. I remember that I always liked that bowl!

One day, I ran across some of this pottery at an antique shop and was stunned to see that the very bowl was tagged at $175! Of course, as soon as I got home, I called my Mom on the phone. When I described it to her, she immediately knew which bowl I was referring to. She also informed me that she thought it had gotten broken years ago. Oh, I was so sad! Then to my surprise, a few years later I was on one of my junking jaunts when I ran across a bowl in the apple design for $15.00. It had a small crack on the bottom, but not noticeable when sitting on my shelf, so it didn't bother me!!

At that time, I decided to do some digging into the history of Watt pottery, and this is what I found out...

The Watt Pottery Company was owned and operated by W.J. Watt and his family. Located in Crooksville, Ohio, they began in 1922 until 1965 {the year I was born} when there was a devastating fire. This ended the production of their pottery.

Here are the different handpainted patterns that were produced...

Starflower: 1951

Apple: 1952

Cherry: 1952

Silhouette: 1953

Rooster: 1955

Dutch Tulip: 1956

Tear Drop/American Red Bud: 1957

Morning Glory: 1958

Autumn Foliage: 1959

Double Apple: 1959

Tulip: 1961

During these years, many merchants would purchase the pottery as sales promotions having their company name on them. This was very popular advertising up into the 50's and early 60's. It was a very competitive market between the Watt Pottery Co., Western Stoneware Co., Red Wing Stoneware Co., and other midwest potteries.

Today, Watt Pottery can be found in a range of prices, making it affordable for most people to collect. However, as much as I love them, I am not willing to pay a lot for the pieces. I only had that one piece of Watt pottery so you couldn't really call it a collection...not until a few months ago...

At one of our Bunco nights, we were enjoying the evening at one of our babe's house. When I first walked into her kitchen, guess what I spotted...not a piece or two of Watt pottery...but a collection of Watt pottery....and YES...in the APPLE DESIGN! O*M*G I inquired as to where she found her pieces, and she informed me from a friend that was getting rid of her pieces. I almost hit the floor when she told me she $5-$10 a piece. What??? Watt??? Just as I was wishing I could find a deal like that, she said, "Oh, she has more if you are interested.". What??? Watt??? It took me all of two seconds to scream, "YESSSS!" And so, I now have 4 more pieces, all found at a ridiculously low price!

So, there you have it on the history of Watt Pottery, as well as, my personal story of how my collection came to be. Do you collect this kind of pottery? If so, what's your favorite design?

Sweet Apple Blessings,

Rebecca

Pinkness At The Beach

2011-06-03T21:18:00.000-05:00

Since summer has officially begun, I thought I'd share some summer fun at the beach with LOTS of cute pinkness {with my grandbaby}.

Kennedy had such fun with her Mommy and Daddy at the beach. When she got home, she kept saying "Go bye-bye" and when they asked her where she wanted to go, she said "Beach". That baby had such fun! So, I decided to share these sweet pics of her having fun at the beach...after all, I am a new Gramma...and I am so proud to call this little girl my first grandbaby!

While Daddy built a sandcastle for Kennedy, she played and splashed in the ocean with Mommy.

A pink princess pail makes it all the more fun!

I love this pic of my two new girls!!!

Daddy is probably doing something silly to make his girls giggle!

Oh to have a skinny body like this again!

She loves her Daddy, and he simply adores her!

What a sweet little family!

I love them so much!

Back at the condo, Lil Miss takes a break to snack on some "go-go's" {goldfish crackers}.

I threw this one in just for fun! They are so stinkin' cute together!

What a fun time they had! I am so thankful they took lots of pictures since we weren't there with them.

What a great time riding the carousel with her Daddy!

Now, I didn't get to post for the birthday party last week...but

Happy Birthday Pink Saturday!

I have a special cake to share with you all!

ENJOY!

Be sure to head on over to Beverly's to see much more Great Pinkness!

Pink Blessings and Happy Saturday from

Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Emma Claire Is Ready For Some Red AND Some White

2011-06-01T00:02:00.003-05:00

Emma Claire was so excited to be back to participating in her two favorite colors...RED and WHITE. So today I am linking to Rednesday and White Wednesday. I hope you enjoy!

Emma Claire didn't think she was dressy enough, so she decided to add her red hat...she reminds me of Mr. Grabbit, a book that I had as a child. Mr. Grabbit was never satisfied with just one of anything. He wore ten hats on his head, carried several umbrellas, slept on a ton of covers, with a dozen pillows. Although she's only wearing two hats, I think she would beat Mr. Grabbit in the bling department. lol

You have to have a purse to match! Emma Claire sure likes roses!

Ok, so you have seen this red telephone before...but I just love it! I wanted to share it again today because it is one of the first things that my sweet little granddaughter gets everytime she comes to visit. And even though it doesn't look like our telephones today, she knows exactly what it is for. She has held many sweet conversations on this little phone!

...and this is the next thing she goes to. The neck pulls right off of this little white goose. It's chunky neck is just perfect to hold in chubby little hands.

Doesn't this little doll have a sweet face? I love the red embroidery work on her white gown.

...and in her hands, she hold some cute rustic stars on a red string of rustic bells. She is so adorable.

And this white vase {$1} is a recent yard sale purchase. This is the perfect vignette for this little find! I hope you have enjoyed my Whites and Reds this week. Be sure to visit...

White Wednesday

and Rednesday

to visit many other bloggers' fun red and white posts!

Wednesday Blessings,

Rebecca

Freedom is not Free

2011-05-30T11:03:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. Thank you to those that have and are currently serving our country.

I am especially proud of my son, Brandon, who served in the United States Air Force.

God Bless you all, and God Bless the U.S.A.!!!

Have a Happy and Safe Memorial Day!

Rebecca

Let's Take A Little Stroll.....

2011-05-29T20:33:00.001-05:00

I really enjoyed our recent walking field trip {see previous post}. I drive down this street everyday going to and coming from work. However, I haven't really had the chance to leisurely stroll down this busy little street. The Painted Clay Studio is not the only house-turned-business on this street. Come along as I take you on a visual tour of the houses along the way.

For fine dining and a great atmosphere, visit Emil's {in above two photos}. It's a great dining experience. This old home is gorgeous both inside and out! Here's the link to their spring/summer menus...

*Brunch/Lunch Menu*

*Dinner Menu*

Let's continue our walk, shall we?

I guess you can tell by the sign where we are next.

The Grand Lux Inn.....let's head inside.

Don't let this rather plain exterior fool you! When you step inside {I found out after some searching on the net}you will be pleasantly surprised at what this Inn has to offer! There are 6 beautiful suites, each unique in decor' and with names to reflect each room's origin.

Upon entering, to the left, you will be welcomed by a Gathering Room.

What a great place to meet each morning or evening if you have a group in your party. With the beautiful fireplace in this area, what a great cozy place it must be in the winter!

It looks so homey and relaxing...especially after coming from the busy street outside!

Just beyond is the breakfast nook that is set up daily with a continental breakfast.

I spy another wonderful fireplace in this area!

Want some quiet time to read? Try out the this sweet "reading nook".

Here on business? There is wireless internet in all rooms, and an executive conference room that is most quaint!

This is the "Chezy Room".

Just like the champagne district of France that it is named for, this room is all about richness and glamour!

The Georgia Room looks like a most bright and cheerful place! Being a southern girl myself, I can appreciate this sweet room.

The Inn also offers four other sweet suites: The Hunt Room, The Carlyle Room, The Norfolk Room, and the Lyon Room.

Who knew that this old home-turned-hotel held such a wonderful secrets within!

I saved my favorite for last...

The last home on the tour in my personal favorite!

You can find me here {ordering either a peppermint or raspberry mocha and a scone} many mornings on my way to work.

You might even spot me some afternoon eating a wonderful sandwich and Apple Jack cake or some yummy gelato.

There is seating upstairs and downstairs, with a comfy gathering/relaxing area where you can chat with a friend over coffee, or study for upcoming tests in your classes.

This place offers live music and poetry reading at nights, as well.

I hope you enjoyed this little tour. If you are ever in the area, you will want to check them out!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

A Trip To Painted Clay Studio

2011-05-21T16:49:00.003-05:00

Recently we took our 3rd grade students on a walking field trip to The Painted Clay Studio.

I've heard great things about the studio since it opened, but had never been there until our trip.

I love the old house that they turned into their studio. Actually, before they moved in it was where Maggie Moo's vet was located until they build there new building. What FUN the kids had! I can't wait to go back now! I can totally see Blake having a great time here! I want to take Kennedy too.

It is $4.00 per painter plus the cost of whatever you choose to paint. I love these crosses! The frog is too funny!

How about some plates?

Cute butterfly plate!

I want to make a mosaic! The ones they had on display were really cute! My favorites were the ones using your own photo. That's what I plan to do when I go back! What a GREAT gift idea!

In every nook and cranny, you will find things to choose! There were plates, bowls, animals, all kinds of figures, Christmas ornaments, etc. etc. etc.

One of our students said she was going to use the horse picture {above the fireplace} as her "inspiration" for the tile she made {below}.

I think she did a GREAT JOB!

What a fun, creative place for kids and adults aike! I can't wait to visit again...and actually be one of the painters this time!!!

Colorful Blessings,

Rebecca

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T21:34:00.001-05:00

Such a wonderful word!

I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day!

Missing my Mom but rejoicing that she is painfree, and walking with Jesus today.

Have a blessed week, my friends!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

Jolly Ol' England

2011-05-05T19:00:00.004-05:00

Did you watch the royal wedding last week? I set my alarm a little early so I could enjoy some of the ceremony before getting ready for work. Wow! What a gorgeous royal couple they were, indeed! Kate was so elegant and poised. Her dress was just absolutely perfect! And WOW! Kate did her own makeup. The way Prince William and Kate looked adoringly at each other was such a sharp contrast to the wedding of his parents where that "spark" was just not there! I loved Princess Di, and her fate was such a tragic one.

As I watched the fabulous wedding, I remembered my trip to London, and my tour of Westminster Abbey. You just can't imagine the beauty of this place!

Then to watch the royal family emerge from the balcony, I could hardly believe that I actually stood there in front of the palace, witnessing some royal event eight years ago! And then to top it all off, to hear that Kensington Palace is where the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will reside...another of my favs on my trip. I especially loved the Princess Di's display of dresses. It was truly the trip of a lifetime, but oh how I long to go back someday!

Can you tell I heart crowns? lol

Speaking of hearts.....LOVE THIS!!!

With all the talk about London, I thought I'd share some of my English favs!

Kensington High Street...the area that our hotel was located in. We passed by these shops daily to get to the tube.

The church that was on our route each day as well. Beautiful!

And just beyond the church was the outdoor, corner flower shop.

We bought a ton of these biscuits curls from Marks and Spencer. We even brought boxes home with us.

Double Decker Bus

Yes, it is true that I jumped off in the middle of the street with cars passing me...and they were driving in the WRONG direction! lol I thought the bus was at our stop, and that's what people do...jump off. However, we were only at a traffic light...which I couldn't see for the crowd of people standing around me! lol I could see my friend's face peering out the back with the most bewildered look on her face. My thoughts were racing, and I wondered how in the heck I was going to find her again! lol Luckily, just a short distance was our stop anyway. Oh, how we laughed over this one!

Great architecture!

Quaint Pubs

FABulous shopping.....like...

LIBERTY

SELFRIDGE'S

HARROD'S

You aren't allowed to take pictures inside of Harrod's.

However...

I did manage to get a shot of Diana's and Dodi's memorial.

Yummy Sweets...like...

And Antique shops...

and PORTOBELLO ROAD!!!!!

And this is only a SMALL part of our trip, as we were there for 10 days. Ahhhh, how I wish to go back someday!

And now, I'll leave you with this...just released...

The Royal Wedding Couple and Wedding Party

and take a look at what the cutie little girl has on her hand. Bwahahahaha

PRECIOUS!

Hope you royally enjoy your weekend!

Cheerio...

Rebecca

Easter Blessings

2011-04-24T02:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Resurrection Day Everyone!

Wishing you all a very blessed Easter this year! While we have fun with Easter egg hunts, chocolate bunnies, and precious family, may we remember the real reason for the season!

I have included an Easter video for you.

Everytime I watch it, I am forever grateful for HIS love and what HE did for me! Because I know and have accepted HIM, I will have eternal life with HIM. Thank you JESUS!
I hope you are blessed by watching this as well.
"Just watch the Lamb."

Easter Blessings from Our Back Porch,

Rebecca

Tickled Pink

2011-03-19T02:43:00.000-05:00

I have been away from Pink Saturdays for a few weeks. Boy did I miss it! I am tickled pink to be back. heehee

With being on Spring Break, I have been pulling out my Easter decorations. Above is the first thing I did...put my Easter wreath on the front door.

And take a look at these wonderful Easter goodies in a sweet shoppe.

I'll share more as I decorate for Easter.

We are so tickled to have a precious granddaughter now {check out part one of the wedding in my previous post}! I have had such fun browsing for wonderfully pink girly things. Just take a peek at what I spied...even though I did not buy...lol

Oh*Em*Gee

How wonderful is this? LOVE it!

Is this pink furry chair absolutely FAB, or what?!!?

And here's the little sweetie that is now my granddaughter. This little girl has captured our hearts, and are thrilled to be her Pa and Gramma. Just this past week, she has started calling me "Gamma"...music to my ears...words that melt my heart!

My son is most proud to be this little cutie's Daddy! They love each other so much...

and I am most proud to be this wonderful young man's mother, and this little one's new Gramma.

Ok, so that's my Pink Saturday for my return. Thanks for letting me talk about my sweet grandbaby. Be sure to check out all the other pink post over at the wonderful Beverly's!

Blessings Everyone,

Rebecca

Going To The Chapel

2011-03-16T00:23:00.003-05:00

Well, here I am on my second day of a two week spring break. As promised, I am going to start the first part of "The Wedding" for you.

Early in the morning of February 11, we made our way to Knoxville to begin the wedding weekend festivities. I can remember thinking, "Wow! My son is really getting married tomorrow!" "Wow! I'm going to have a beautiful daughter now!" "Wow! Kenny and I are going to be Pa and Gramma to a beautiful little girl!" It was all so surreal!

The day began with a bridesmaids luncheon held at the bride's parents' home. What a wonderful time I had with these lovely ladies and such wonderful food!

Just look at the yummy spread that we enjoyed! Prepared by the bride's grandmother, aunt, and mother, this luncheon was inspired by the Apple Cake Tea Room in Knoxville. The chicken salad was so good...the fruit...awesome...and the banana bread sandwiches...out of this world!!! Delish for sure!

The "memory" table was beautifully set with a tablecloth and china that belonged to the bride's great-grandmothers, and silver and glassware that belonged to her grandmothers. Now, Carrie will have another memory of this special luncheon with family and friends on the day before her wedding.

The bride {front}, maid of honor {third from left}, and bridesmaids gather for a couple of quick pics before heading out to run some last minute wedding errands together.

Such a princess!

While the ladies ran their errands, Kenny and I enjoyed some time with the groom...our wonderful son, Blake, at the tux shop.

It was hard to believe that in less than 24 hours, this young man was going to be a husband...and a father!

Next post....

*Off to the Wedding Rehearsal*

So check back soon! I'll meet you right here, and we'll pick up where we left off.

Hugs and Blessings,

Rebecca

I know...MIA Again!

2011-02-28T19:06:00.001-06:00

But with good...No, No...GREAT REASONS!

Oh how I have missed you all! I have SO MUCH to share! It has just been soooo crazy busy...but my 2 week spring break is just around the corner...and you know I'll be blogging again almost every day then! I will share with you just as soon as I have time to recap everything! It's all been good!
Blake is now married...the wedding was perfect...his bride is Beautiful inside and out!

...I am officially a Gramma

{That's my girl with Gramma at the Wedding Rehearsal}

...Just celebrated 24 years of marriage

...I'll just have to make you all wait, because I want to go into great detail on all of these!

So please hang with me...it won't be too much longer. But I will leave you with a few of my favorite pics, as of late. Maybe that will hold you over until I can give this the attention that it deserves. *smiles*

Spring Blessings,

Rebecca

I'm a Siggy Piggy

2011-01-22T12:07:00.006-06:00

I'm Rebecca, and I'm a "siggy*piggy"!

I've been a siggy piggy for about 6 years now...

and I DON'T WANT TO STOP! heehee

Let me explain if you haven't heard of siggies!

I fell in love with little signature tags, that had cute bunnies, bears, dolls, etc. on them. I loved having my name on these little cuties that I could add to my emails, my blog, etc. After my first purchase of one, I couldn't get enough! The more I got into these little tubes that created these signature tags, the more I wanted to learn to make them...so I did. Then that evolved into actually drawing these little characters of my own...which in turn inspired me to start my own pixel website, which is now booming. I found a new love for drawing!

If you'd like to see the cute siggies that I have collected over the years, you can find them here...
My Siggy Collection

You can even visit the sweet little shops and sites where I got them!

Who knows, you might even become a "siggy piggy".

Lots of my siggies are pink, so I am linking to Beverly's Pink Saturday.
Head on over to see more wonderful pinks!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

{siggies shown are by Premade Pixels and Whispy Hollow Graphics which are both offline now}

Praying for a miracle

2011-01-17T18:12:00.003-06:00

See the beautiful lady on the button on the left side bar of my blog...she is in need of LOTS of prayer...she needs nothing short of a MIRACLE and I know who can do just that!

I have never met this beautiful lady, nor have I even heard of her or visited her blog until a few days ago. I received an email from my niece who was forwarding an email from one of her co-workers. This young wife and mother of two girls is a friend of hers.

Even though I have never met this remarkable lady, I have been so touched by her story. What an awesome godly woman! Just a few days ago, she had a major stroke, and is in need of a LOT of prayer!!! Like I said before...nothing short of a miracle!

I have seen what the power of prayer can do, and I have witnessed miracles firsthand!
My sister is a walking miracle, as is a friend of mine named Sandra.

Please take a moment and click on her button. Read the last few entries to understand what has happened in her life these last few days. This mother, her devoted husband, and precious girls have had their lives turned upside down! Her husband has claimed the scripture, Psalm 46 for Joanne. If you feel so moved, leave a note for the family and if not, please just pray for Joanne for that is what she needs most!

Thank you for taking the time to read this post, and to visit Joanne's blog. I think you will be touched and blessed just by going over to visit!

{The button will take you right to her blog.}
Thanks again!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

HaPpY NeW yEaR

2011-01-03T19:23:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year, Everyone!

I meant to post before now but it's been CrAzY! I was back at work today after two weeks off. We had an inservice day, so tomorrow students start back.

New Year's Eve was a quiet one here. We had one son home and his girlfriend. It was a night of food, fun, and family.

We had a "fun" dinner {thanks Sara!} and then watched a couple of movies.

I was SO ready to put 2010 behind us, and looking forward to the new year, and what it may bring. So here's a toast to a very blessed year with friends, family, love, hope, peace, and joy!

God Bless,

Rebecca

{P*S* Check back soon, as I plan on sharing my "Year In Review".}

Christmas Stuff...

2010-12-23T20:18:00.002-06:00

This is where you will find us most evenings during the Christmas season. Sometimes we are each on our laptop. Other times we are watching a movie or doing some reading. Sometimes the only light is from the Christmas tree and the candles aglow in the fireplace....ahhhhh I LOVE this room!

You remember her...don't you???

She was one of my FINDS at the Nashville Flea Market! Here, Emma Claire is all dressed in red, ready for the holidays.

Have you finished your shopping yet? I am DONE as of today...I HOPE! Just need to do some wrapping tonight.

Hope you've been good! Santa is always watching!

...and may we always remember The Reason for the Season!

I plan to post again tomorrow evening...but if you don't get by, I want to wish you all a very blessed and merry Christmas surrounded by those that you hold dear!

Merry Christmas and God Bless!

Rebecca

SweetSweet*Things

2010-12-21T10:25:00.002-06:00

Today is a cold, drizzly day. I wish it was pouring rain...with thunder and lightening...ahhhh...If so, I would stay in bed and just listen. But it's not and there are things to do...the time is getting near! I think I will work on my "to-do" list that will keep me indoors instead of out fighting the crowds in this weather. Some of those people get grumpy, and I don't want to deal with grumpy today...lol I'd rather be in my warm, cozy home surrounded by the sweet sights of Christmas. So snuggle in and get comfy. I'm going to share a few of my favorite sweet things...

In the above picture, my little vintage shoppers are scurrying about getting ready for the big day! Suh--weet!

I just ADORE the sweet sugar snow covering their clothes.

Their faces are just adorable!

This little vintage framed girl makes me smile. For one, she is just too darn cute...and for another, she was a $3.00 find at Target a few years ago!

Around ever nook and cranny, you will find little Christmas surprises. This little wreath is hanging on an inside door. Simple green wreath, purchased at Walmart. An old broken strand of faux pearls and a tiny vintage Santa & his sleigh, topped off with a little vintage bling and a candy cane bow is a sweet little vintage treasure.

❄ ❄ ❄ ♬♪♫...with a corncob pipe and a button nose, and two eyes made out of coal...♬♪♫ ❄ ❄ ❄

This little Santa puts a smile on my face. I love his little springy legs!

Most of you know that "carolers"...of all kinds are at the top of my fav collections list. I so delight in these three little carolers! Looks like they are singing at the top of their lungs. Precious!

These little cuties were a recent flea market find. I saw some just like them on Etsy that I have admired.

My candy cane supply is slowly decreasing...maybe because I have one each each cuppa peppermint mocha that I drink. lol

I found this glittery treasure at Big Lots. I also got the Hope {in red} and Peace {in gold}. They are perfect on this window sill in my dining room.

I will cherish these little kissing angels forever! My Mom gave them to me just last Christmas! Who knew that would be her last one with us on this earth. Thank you Mama!!!

♬♪♫... Joy to the world. The Lord is come... ♬♪♫

Precious nativity ornaments hanging on my "Nativity" tree.

Mary and Baby Jesus...The Reason for the Season!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Oh how I love this time of year! However, this year will be bittersweet. It hurts so much not having Mom here with us this Christmas. She is no longer in pain, she is in the most wonderful place, and I'll see her again. That's the sweet part that gives me great comfort, peace, and joy.

And how AWESOME it must be to celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus WITH JESUS!

Our traditional Christmas get-together will be quite different. We'll be missing my Daddy, sister, brother-in-law, nieces, and nephew as they will be spending Christmas at other places this year. ☹ But they are in good health and spending time with loved ones...so that's all good.

And on a sweet note ♪ ... my oldest niece and her little girl will be here on Christmas Eve to stay with us for 3-4 days! ☺

And an even sweeter♪...we have the upcoming marriage of my son and the love of his life {my soon-to-be daughter-in-love} in February.

And with that comes a most beautiful baby girl that will be our granddaughter...

We are already "Gramma" and "Pa" to her, and we couldn't be more delighted!

And another sweet ♪...our oldest son, that's been touring, will be home for Christmas with his precious girlfriend {whom I hope will be my other daughter-in-love} someday!

Yes.....Sweet, indeed!

We are truly blessed!

Wishing you a most sweet time this Christmas with those you love! Many prayers and hugs for those, like us, that have lost someone special this year. May you find the sweet in this Christmas season, as well!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

Christmas Music

2010-12-18T08:23:00.000-06:00

I think Christmas music gets you in the mood for Christmas. At least it does for me! I enjoy all the fun Christmas songs with my students each day during the Christmas season. I love singing Christmas carols each year, as well. A special time is at our candle light Christmas Eve service at church. Then when we come home, we sing around the Christmas tree as a family. This is one of my favorite Christmas traditions!

All through the season...starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can hear Point of Grace's "A Christmas Story" cd playing...in my home, in my car, in my classroom. I've almost worn this think out! lol LOVE IT! In fact, you are listening to it right now! :)

What's you favorite Christmas music? If you want more Christmas music now, then head over to Beverly's! There is a whole list of participants sharing their Christmas favorites!

Have a most musical day,

Rebecca

A Great Day For...

2010-12-13T13:27:00.002-06:00

Great day for some

peppermint mocha...snow...and a pink Christmas tree!

A *SNOW*DAY in Tullahoma? Unheard of...lol...well almost!

So.....

I thought today would be a good day to get Kennedy's pink tree put up in her room, since I hadn't done that. Unfortunately, when I opened the box, the tree stand was missing! Ugghhh! I got some great ideas from some Facebook friends...most of which I had thought of...but finally decided on how to resolve the dilemma.

First, I packed the base of the tree in a vase...placed the vase in a sweet vintage sewing basket, added some pink eyelet, and a green crochet piece.

Then added a lace tree "skirt".

I think it turned out pretty CuTe!!!

I debated on whether or not to cover the cute sewing basket. I thought it was darling without the cover too! What do you think???

The ornaments on this tree are oh-so-sweet!

Love the little flocked deer!

How cute is this pompom garland!?!

Love the candycane garland, as well!

An angel on top for my angel!

And this is what Kennedy will see when she walks into her room here at Gramma's and Pa's! I can't wait!

Maggie wanted to check out the white stuff that she spotted out the window, so she headed out to the backyard.

And that white stuff was covering the deck too!

*sniff*sniff*sniff*

"It smells like....like...like *SNOW*!!! Yippeeeee and Momma gets to stay home with me today! *Snow*Days* are da bomb!", says Maggie.

My fireplace is aglow...my Christmas trees are twinkling...

so I'm off to sip some peppermint mocha and watch the snowflakes dance.

Snuggle up y'all and stay warm!

Snowy Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

Favorite Christmas Movies

2010-12-11T05:14:00.000-06:00

For Pink Saturdays in the month of December have an option of sharing Christmas stuff. This week's task is to share our favorite Christmas movie. Well, in my case...it's going to be movieS! lol

A Christmas Story

I LOVE this movie...even when they have it on for 24-48 hours!!! So MANY great scenes in this movie!!!

Oh who can forget Ralphy in that pink bunny suit? He looks like a deranged easter egg...a pink nightmare. LOL

And the infamous "leg lamp"!!!

It's a MAJOR AWARD! bwahahaha!

Home Alone 1 and 2

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE these two movies! The third one...not so much...ok, NOT AT ALL! lol

But the first two are a riot everytime!!!

And Kevin looks so much like my oldest son at that age!

The Polar Express

I adore this book and movie!!! If it had been out when I was a little girl, I know I would have dreamt many times of riding on this train! But then again, it wouldn't have had Tom Hanks in it back then either. lol

All Aboard!

Can't you just feel the wind on your face and the chill in the air??!!

I would have saved my punched ticket as a souvenir, for sure!

It's HIM! It's Santa!

We show this movie each year at school. The kids come to school in their pajamas, and we serve chocolate milk during the movie scene of the hot chocolate. We then have a special package that arrives from the North Pole...and it is COOLLLDDD {had been in the fridge}. Inside is a bell {still COLD} for each child. Oh, I just LOVE THIS!!!

What is your favorite Christmas movie? If you want to see what all the pinkies said, just follow this link to Beverly's! You'll be glad you did!

Merry Hugs and Blessings,

Rebecca

Let The Decorating Begin...

2010-11-27T08:46:00.002-06:00

The time has come to begin the Christmas decorating. Instead of fighting the crowds at Black Friday, I chose to put up my trees and decorate on this day! The first tree to go up was my Gingerbread Tree. Today for Pink Saturday, I'm going to share just a few ornaments from this tree. So here we go...

Love this sugar-coated snowflake!

Let them eat cake.

...and a cupcake.

Lots of yummies!!!

This sweet little "Gingerbread Tree" is in my kitchen. Now, I'm off to put up the 4, yes 4, remaining trees. :)

Be sure to check out the Pinkies over at Beverly's!

Happy Pink Saturday and

Happy Christmas Decorating!

Rebecca

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T10:18:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Count your blessings~name them one by one.

Count your blessings~See what God has done.

May your day be a blessed one surrounded by those you love.

Rebecca

I'm Dreaming Of A...

2010-11-20T08:34:00.000-06:00

Pink Christmas!

I am in search of a small pink Christmas tree for my guest room, where lil miss Kennedy sleeps when she is visiting. I ran across a TDF pink tree online plus some awesome pink ornaments and decorations. So I thought I'd share those with you today for Pink Saturday.

Here we go...

LOVE this yummy pink cupcake ornament!!!

Looks good enough to eat!

Wow! Now, those are some pink ornaments!

Just not the color pink I wanted.

Oh yeah! Those little bells are cuties!

That garland is sweet!

A pretty pink poodle...now that's funny!

But not what I'm looking for.

That jellyfish ornament is the beautiful jellyfish I've ever seen.

Awww...this one is a MUST!

Lil Miss Kennedy is definitely my lil princess!

Perfect!

I hope you have enjoyed my dream of a pink Christmas! If you need or want more pink...head on over to Beverly's! There are many more pinkies that want to share their pinks with you!

Have a blessed Pink Saturday!

Rebecca

Cath Kidston

2010-11-13T08:56:00.001-06:00

Today's Pink Saturday is brought to you by Cath Kidston. Don't you just LOVE IT!?!?!

Here are some of my favs!

Just look at this Christmas wrapping paper! Eeeekkk!

Happy Pink Saturday everyone!

Head on over to Beverly's to check out more pink posts!

Back Porch Blessings,

Rebecca

Making A List...

2010-11-06T02:13:00.004-05:00

This time of year, I enjoy making a list...and checking it twice. Here are some pinks that I have listed...

Love this pink Betsey Johnson cluster necklace!

A pink ring fit for a princess!

Cute pink drop earrings

Great blouses and sweaters

Beautiful perfume bottle

Pink Pea Coat

Incredible pink rosette coat

What's on your list????

It's that wonderful pink day, so head on over to Beverly's for more pinks!

Blessings on this Pink Saturday!

Rebecca

The Colors of Autumn

2010-11-05T21:47:00.001-05:00

Have I told you how much I LOVE autumn? It is my favorite season! The colors of autumn are one reason it is my fav! All around me, rich vibrant colors of autumn are a feast for my eyes. Let's take a look...

Had to bring some autumn into my classroom!

I just love this little scarecrow!

Bringing the leaves indoors!

Pulling out the long sleeves and all the layers.

LOVE the large plaid shirt dresses with leggings!

Jeans and Corduroys

But none so vibrant as the great outdoors!

Don't you just love mums in the fall?!

And the leaves on the the trees!

This one is awesome!

And that, my friends, is why I LOVE autumn!

Autumn Blessings from Our Back Porch ,

Rebecca

Our Back Porch

Some Like it PINK!!!

Mosaic Monday

PINK Saturday!

Haute and Cold

Pretty Pink Tea Party

Year In Review

New Year Blessings

Merry Christmas To All!

Christmas Shopping

Halloween Candy

Beginning To Look Like Autumn

Cheery Cherry Sunday

Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho...

Little Pink Houses For You And Me...

Prairie Chic Cuff Bracelets

Vintage~y Fun and A Birthday!

A Junkin' Jaunt and I'm A Basket Case

Sweet Shabby Birds and Roses

Favorite Things

Vintage Thingy Thursday

Rosey Lil Cheeks

Hurray For The Red, White, & Blue!

Go To Your Corner!

P is for Patchwork

A Charming Cottage!

*Special Fathers*

Glider Overboard!

Here Come The Brides

I'm Not "Old School" Anymore

Ugly Duckling...to White Swan

Simple Joys

WATT Did You Say?

Pinkness At The Beach

Emma Claire Is Ready For Some Red AND Some White

Freedom is not Free

Let's Take A Little Stroll.....

A Trip To Painted Clay Studio

Happy Mother's Day!

Jolly Ol' England

Easter Blessings

Tickled Pink

Going To The Chapel

I know...MIA Again!

I'm a *Siggy Piggy*

Praying for a miracle

*HaPpY NeW yEaR*

Christmas Stuff...

*Sweet*Sweet*Things

Christmas Music

A Great Day For...

Favorite Christmas Movies

Let The Decorating Begin...

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm Dreaming Of A...

Cath Kidston

Making A List...

The Colors of Autumn

Special Fathers

I'm a Siggy Piggy

HaPpY NeW yEaR

SweetSweet*Things