Bits & Pieces

I have housework to do today. Other than laundry and odds and pieces that ask for my attention, I need to do some blog 'house work,' and take care of some details like thanking some lovely bloggers. And share things that have come about because of friendships that are being formed via our blogs.

Let's start with that first picture. Those are my new salt and pepper shakers that I got via e-Bay. Aren't they cute?! They're vintage, in great shape, and I'm so very pleased with them. I lost an auction last year on a very similar set. They're not easy to come by and not always in good condition. This set is in terrific shape; just the right amount of predictable wear. What is really a nice bit of synchronicity is that the seller lives in Emmitsburg, Maryland which is where Michael was born and raised. So, perhaps it was meant to be.

Why do I show them here? Well, I wouldn't have these gems if it hadn't been for a follower, Suzie of Cat In The Moon. After enjoying the post about my kitchen, she happened to see a set of these at an antiques show, and looked on eBay to see if she could find something like them to share with me. She most certainly did, sent me the link, and all good wishes that they would come to my kitchen, "As I know they'll feel immediately at home there!"

Here they are, Suzie, what do you think? Thanks for your keen eye and having fun in my kitchen even if it's from afar!

Over the weekend, I was gifted with two awards. This first one was given to me twice. First by Sarah, of Cottage Garden Studio and then seconded by Barb at A Bird In My Hand.

The designer of this award is a woman named Ces. She explains: "I designed this award to celebrate art in the blogs and to honor the value of friendship, sisterhood, sharing and caring. It is to be awarded to the gifted, accomplished, eloquent and talented blogger whose friendship and influence inspire us to do our best. That I named it after Bella Sinclair is because she epitomizes all of these things. She is an inspiration to many of us."

Here's the thing- I don't know Ces and I don't know Bella. But, I'm very happy to be counted among those who are defined by her lovely words. I really don't 'know' Sarah or Barb in real time, at any rate. But, we are becoming friends as I follow their blogs and I am learning about them as individuals and as writers. I'm learning about their trials and celebrations. I am learning that we are all more alike than different. I am learning a great many things from writing and following other blogs.

Sarah & Barb...thank you for thinking so very highly of me and my work here by including me in this award.

And, while I don't always forward these awards on, I do want to share this one with Toni, whose newest blog, The Weight of Me is now a favorite because she's pursuing her writing with the same gusto as she does her visual arts. But, mostly because she feels like my sister. And I love her.

Late last evening, I noted that Beverly of Bunny's Girl gave me this award! Now, to be honest, neither of us follow each of our blogs daily. Beverly and I are fellow wishers in Wishcasting Wednesday. When I go to visit with her each week, I spend some time going back through her writings and I suspect she may do that here. The award is nice, but what she said about me is the true award, " Holly is always so very supportive of all who take part in Wishcasting Wednesday. Thanks for your special thoughts." Thanks, Bev...I really do take a lot of time to help fellow wisher get their wishes!

I'm now supposed to reveal seven bits of stuff about me in accepting this MeMe Award:

1.) I wonder if there's anything new I can tell you that you don't already know because of all I leave here?

2.) There's no veggie I won't eat. I like them all, in various levels of liking...but I can't think of one I won't eat.

3.) Losing weight is hard work. It's work. But, it's work worth doing.

4.) I'm currently blogging through The Artist's Way.

5.) I'm an excellent cook. And, I always like to have people stop by for dinner.

6.) I'm attempting to get back into my water colors.

7.) I'm way too hard on myself.

So there you have it. Seven bits of me.

I owe a thank you to a dog and his mom. I wish I had a picture of what she sent to us, but alas, Rory & Fiona completely enjoyed the home made dog treats that Michelle made for them. And, she even tucked in a wee treat for me; a lavender pillow! My favorite scent! How did you know, Meesh?

Chester is good friends with my two highlanders. And, they spend quite a bit of fun time chatting on Facebook. For my money, it should really be called Dogbook. Rory gets way more action on his page than I do on mine! Of course he has his own page! Doesn't everyone's dog?

Chester is the most delicious chocolate lab. Rory calls him Big Brownie. If you want some dog fun, make sure you visit with him over at his very own blog, For The Love of Chester. Tell him Rory's Mommer sent you.

Okay, now this last shot? What in the world am I doing showing an apron?

Not too long ago, on a trip to take care of some business for Michael's father, I got an email on my phone, which brightened up considerably, what was a stressful visit. And, I need to thank Lisa of Diary of A Not So Glamorous Housewife. She had a give away over at her blog of an apron that she fabricated. She's a great seamstress. And, I love her blog because she's droll, witty, and real.

I was the winner! I'm telling you that, just recently, I was thinking that I really should invest in an apron because I end up with more stuff on my clothes when I'm at the stove. And, Lisa's give away made that possible.

I'm a bit late in thanking everyone. But, truth is, it's never too late to thank someone for a kindness. With that, the timer just buzzed on the washer so I must fly. Hope you all have a smooth and productive week!

Namaste' Till Next Time,
Holly