Tales from Bloggeritaville

It's not a collander. And it's not for straining soup!

2012-01-30T14:57:00.000-06:00

Good Monday!

I recently shared on my personal facebook page a story of my husband and some of his antics.

Last week Big Daddy and I had to run to a local hardware store to grab some supplies for the can of worms we have opened....I mean, for the projects we are working on at home. My daughter, Sister Sledge has the most beautiful long hair. Its thick, but its also very fine. I'm pretty sure that's an oxymoron, but its the truth. Anyway, often in the shower, those long hairs will come out and clog the drain. We came across some sink and tub screen section in the hardware store and it made me remember that we needed one.

"Hey, Big Daddy...we need to pick up one of those for the kids shower...."

"What are those? Why do we need one? Waittttt..." He said, "but we have one..." I looked at him puzzled, as he continued to explain. "The small colander that was in the kitchen sink,. I used one time-about a year ago- when you were sick with the flu. I strained the chicken out of the hot and sour soup I took the broth up to you in bed."

Do you realize what this means?

He used the drain in our sink to strain my soup? !!!!!!!!!!!

God help me. God, Please let it have been clean!!!!

I am a self admitted germaphob. You can only imagine the gagging reflex that triggered at the thought of food particles, unidentified disgustingness, germs, bacteria. I'm fairly certain the CDC could do some research in that sink.

Big Daddy is a very intelligent man. But to be so smart, he is so clueless about certain things.

The thought, the very idea consumed my thoughts for the following days after, as well as the thoughts that perhaps he is trying to rub me out via old pasta remnants and various other pollutants in that screen.

I posted this story on my facebook page and had many comments and responses regarding. Days went by, the story began to "die" down. And then today, I pulled up to my mailbox and as I opened the door I noticed something silver inside.

To the person that left the shiny new in package sink drainer screen (or as Big Daddy likes to refer to it as a "small colander") in my mailbox today....well played! I laughed out loud. And I will make sure to put in a spot other than the sink should Big Daddy decide to strain any food in our kitchen. You had me both gagging (replaying myself eating that soup, unknowingly) and laughing when I opened that box. Well played. I have a couple ideas of who it could be.....(Starting with my friend Sweet Melissa!!!)

Thrifty Thursday #145, Plus a Tablescape!

2012-01-25T21:46:00.002-06:00

Hi! It's Thrifty Thursday! I am your host, Leigh. Thank you so much for stopping by and additional thanks to those who also participate in Thrifty Thursday! I am most delighted to have you join in..for it's YOU who makes it a "show and tell party".

(You can click on any pictures for a closer view)

*Thrifty Thursday takes place each Thursday and is hosted here at Tales from Bloggeritaville, but the party is a progressive one, visit the links to see all the Thrifty Thursday links to see the thrifty treasures participating bloggers have to share.

*Don't forget to copy and paste the Thrifty Thursday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Thrifty Thursday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Thrifty Thursday.

*Thrifty Thursday*

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My friend, Sweet Melissa gave me some window sashes and frames recently. She also gave me some shutters. I tell you what, its all in who you know. Melissa works for a company that installs new windows and doors. Her company usually tosses the old, but she will call me when she notices something good. Anyway, I have been working on a photography project using the window pane. I am not finished, but wanted to give you a sneak peek of one for today...

I was inspired by Z Gallery.
Which is also where I got my tableware for today's......

Tablescape Thursday

Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

I'm still feeling the blues....

Feeling the blues, not feeling blue.
You can't BE blue when eating from those pretty little dishes, or I can't anyway!

I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES for Foodie Friday.
Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!

And speaking of friends.....

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

With Warmest Regards,

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday #144, Plus a Tablescape!

2012-01-18T16:45:00.002-06:00

Before I discuss my Thrifty Thursday this week, I wanted to thank you all for your most kind sincere words, comments and understanding to my post last week, regarding my classmate Julie.

There are no words that can better express what Julie meant to people, but I know that she will and does continue to touch and inspire even now. Thank you for your friendship and comfort and encouragement.

It means so very much!

*Thrifty Thursday*

I have been very busy, working away paining, painting, painting. I wanted a new fresh look in my bedroom. The old look had become......eww. I wanted something new.

I enlisted the help of Big Daddy, who I honestly could not have done it without his help.

The only thing sexier than a man who does dishes is one who takes a day off of work to help his wife paint. Big points were scored, which I am certain he will cash in sometime soon on a hot wing and beer night with the guys. Which is fine by me!

Please note the hat Big Daddy is wearing. It bears his nickname!

It was a gift from my dear blogging friend, Keetha.

Thanks Keetha!

Anyway, back to the room painting.

I selected a paint by Behr called Celtic Green, which in all actuality is more of a robin's egg blue when its on the wall. I love it. But what I love more, Behr paint. "Behr" in mind, I am and was not paid to endorse Behr (although if the Behr company wants to send a check our way, I wouldn't complain).

If you recall the way my bedroom did look, the paint I had on the wall was a dark baby poo yellow. It was horrible. I had actually used some left over paint the first time and hated it, but it stayed, becasue I don't enjoy painting.

So this go around, I was going with a much, much lighter paint. I was certain it would take a primer plus an additional 2-3 coats to cover.

Much to my surprise and delight I was wrong.

Behr has a primer in it's paint.

And it only took ONE.COAT.OF.PAINT.

I purchased 2 gallons for my bedroom that is about and I only used one gallon. So, I did add an additional coat, though it wasn't necessary.

All these years I have primed and painted and painted, needlessly.

Behr=Fabulous!

As for my thrifty, my husband wanted to move his old desk into our bedroom to act as a TV cabinet.

I balked at first, then I heard him out and agreed.

We do share the room afterall. I guess he can have say in one thing.

No, not the most pretty thing in the room, but it does serve it's purpose.

For now.

I have this weird small closet behind the door in my bedroom. I have often wondered why someone would build such a narrow closet. I decided to make it work for me. I took some of those command strip hooks and adhered them to the door, now...its holding my necklaces....

The necklaces were housed in a jewelry cabinet, but I outgrew it.
The command hooks work great. I have it piled on and they have held up well.

You know I love to hike. Most times I walk home with some twirly or mossy stick, like some child.
My husband rolls his eyes when I tell him I am keeping it.
I put my sticks in a large Chinese rice bucket.

The drapes came from Walmart. Yeah, The W. Big Daddy actually hung them a bit to high because I wanted them to graze the floor, but after the work he did....I was not about to complain. Its close enough.
My friend Carey suggested i buy the hooks and then they will hang lower.
Im lucky to have such great friends with good ideas.
I'll be doing that.
The aqua drapes were $13 a panel, clearance.
Yeah-yah!
I hung some cheaper white sheers in between.

Big Daddy suggested that I hang the sheet music wreath I made, between the windows, Above the cedar cabinet my grandfather built....

My precious Aunt Gloria recently was getting rid of some home decor items and asked if I was interested in any.
She has great style and her house is beautifully decorated.
Of course I accepted.
For example....
I chose this Chinese Screen.
I don't have anything in my home with an Asian theme, aside from my rice buckets, but it was so pretty I took it.

The original side was bamboo and flowers....

Pretty, But that didn't work in my home. It didn't match the style of the room, so I flipped it over and used the back of the screen as a temporary headboard...

I am planning to make a tufted headboard at some point, but until that happens it will do.
I thought it sort of mocked the tufting design.

When I complete the tufting project I will use the screen in another place in my home.

I love changing things up, keeps it interesting!

Speaking of my bed, it was indeed a deal! For Christmas this year Big Daddy and I gave each other a bed. 3/5 of our shitsu dogs sleep with us. We can't resist these little faces..

You know what its called when these puppies are piled up on the bed?

A big ol pile of shih's.

Yeah, I'm not scheduled for the comedy circuit just yet.

Anyway, 3 dogs-albeit small was to much for our queen size.

Therefore we had outgrown the queen bed. Rather I had. Big Daddy and the 3 dogs were perfectly comfortable and commandeered the bed, leaving me a wee slice of the edge. For years. Finally me and my back had enough and I insisted on the upgrade.

We shopped around and did some research, and decided to go with a memory foam matress.
We purchased on Cyber Monday from and got it for $530.00!!!
It was such a great deal we added in 600 thread count sateen sheets and 600 TC Down Alternative Bedding, as well as the platform bed frame, all this for less than a thousand dollars ($916.00). Less than what a mattress and box spring would typically cost. We have had our mattress for a month now......Big Daddy and I are in LOVE......with our mattress! The only complaint, we don't want to get out of bed! It is unbelievably comfortable. We ordered the medium firmness and it is perfect for us!

I still have more I want to share of our bedroom makeover, but I am still in the process of making over.
I am going to invite my friend over to help with the staging.
As soon as it is complete, I will share more.
A warning.....when doing a room makeover, it opens a can or worms.
I also had to redo the master bath to match.....here is small look...

I used some chippy old aqua shutters for some privacy, but still add in light and charm.
I am open to ideas and suggestions of where to put what.

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Tablescape Thursday

Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

I also participate in Tablescape Thursday on Thursdays in addition to Thrifty Thursday. The host of that fun carnival is the Hostess with the Mostess...Susan of Between Naps on the Backporch. That's no lie or exaggeration, each week I visit Susan's porch and just long to be a guest at any of her tablescapes...especially those held on the porch.

Because I am on the robins egg blue today, I thought I would go with the same shade of dishes....

A quick tablescape for a quick meal between painting!

I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES for Foodie Friday. Today I am sharing a great recipe for Crock Pot Angel Chicken. It was approved by all my picky eaters! And who doesn't love a fix it and forget about it meal??

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!

And speaking of friends.....

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

With Warmest Regards,

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday: Can you hear me now, Lord? (Updated)

2012-01-11T21:33:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,

Today I just couldn't get myself inspired about my Thrifty Thursday post this week. I've had much on my mind....much of it prayers. It seems the past several days I have had a open long distance chat line with the Lord Himself. I have to ask your forgiveness because I know that so many of you work to post early for T. I am so appreciative of that. Today, being one of my heaviest traffic days, I thought it would serve better to ask you...my friends....to pray for a friend of mine. I don't mean to make TT about my needs and request, but today...time is urgent. And quite honestly I dont know a specific prayer of request. I guess I am just asking for a prayer for the family and a prayer of peace for Julie.

I promise next week I will return to our originally scheduled Thrifty Thursday post.

I am linking up to this blog post written by another friend of Julie's. His words and his song so more aptly express her condition and what she means to so many people.

And MY friend reading this...thank you for saying a prayer for Julie. And thank you for being a friend to me.

Life is Wonderful....just like Keb Mo says.

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
Leigh

UPDATE:

Today the angels sing. Julie who fought so valiantly for the last 17 months against stage 4 colon and liver cancer went Home to the arms of her Lord. I feel so honored to have witnessed the remarkable strength, determination, hope, joy and faith in God by Julie and Tim. Their faith in each other was remarkable and their devotion to one another and their family, so genuine. When the Lord calls ou...r loved ones home; He leaves a gift of memories in exchange. I know Julie left so many with wonderful memories and laughter. Memories of love and friendship are treasures that we carry with us always. Today Heaven gained an angel. I know God has plans far greater than for us to understand. And I know Julie is at peace. Thank you my friends, for your prayers. Please continue to pray for peace and comfort for Tim and their 2 young children. To God be the glory.

Thrifty Thursday #142, Plus a Tablescape

2012-01-04T22:25:00.004-06:00

I love a good sale! I came across a great estate sale and came home with these finds....
I got this gorgeous large buffet style antique mirror with beveled glass for just $8.00.

See the detailing? I think I will dry brush some white paint across it to highlight the relief.

I LOVED this original artwork. So much I bought it.

It came with a story. The lady selling it had lots of stories with things she sold. I love that. This was something she purchased on a trip to Buenos Aires with a boyfriend.

The boyfriend is now history.
The artwork reminds her of him.
And I have a piece of gorgeous original framed artwork with authenticity plaque for $5.00!
The artwork is called Buenos Aires Tango by Pablo Paez.

I also picked up this "Bless this House" glass vase with light for a buck.

I plan to use it in my Christmas display next year. Unless I come up with a place to put it between now and then. One buck. Yes.
I also found Sister Sledge some more brand name clothing. She was happy about that. What a great sale!
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Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

I also participate in Tablescape Thursday on Thursdays in addition to Thrifty Thursday. The host of that fun carnival is the Hostess with the Mostess...Susan of Between Naps on the Backporch. That's no lie or exaggeration, each week I visit Susan's porch and just long to be a guest at any of her tablescapes...especially those held on the porch.

Its cold outside, even here in the south! WE went from temps in the 60-lower 70's to 30's! I am ready for a warm beach somewhere. So, today for tablescape I am doing a flashback. This makes me think of picnics on the beach. Dining with a view. And what a view it is!

(Taste of Home)
I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES for Foodie Friday. I will be sharing the beach menu for perfect finger foods/nibblers: Oven fried chicken, shrimp gazpacho and coconut lemon bars.

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.
I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!

And speaking of friends.....

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

I want to wish all of you a very Happy New Year!
Thank you for being a friend to Tales from Bloggeritaville! It means the world for you to drop by and share your time, your ideas , your comments and your life with me.
It is a gift! And I sincerely read and appreciate every comment.

I wish you happiness, prosperity, and reality for every dream you’ve dared to dream. Don’t stop – keep dreaming!

Remember this little quote, “the difference between possibility and impossibility lies within YOUR determination.”

With Warmest Regards,

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday #141, Plus a Tablescape!

2011-12-28T19:00:00.000-06:00

Hi! It's Thrifty Thursday! I am your host, Leigh. Thank you so much for stopping by and additional thanks to those who also participate in Thrifty Thursday! I am most delighted to have you join in..for it's YOU who makes it a "show and tell party". (You can click on any pictures for a closer view) *Thrifty Thursday takes place each Thursday and is hosted here at Tales from Bloggeritaville, but the party is a progressive one, visit the links to see all the Thrifty Thursday links to see the thrifty treasures participating bloggers have to share. *Don't forget to copy and paste the Thrifty Thursday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Thrifty Thursday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Thrifty Thursday.

I sure hope your Christmas was a Merry one of many and great blessings!

And I hope that you will carry that Christmas spirit with you every day this year!

And now, Thrifty Thursday...

For today's Thrifty Thursday I was inspired by Pinterest.

Pinterest is soooo addicting!

I absolutley love it because I was already using the concept of saving images that I loved for whatever reason into a folder on my computer, my inspirartion folder. It sure took up alot of harddrive space.

Now...Pinterest is my way of saving those images and being inspired.

I had a small canvas that was formerly white with some lettering.

I was no longer in love with the wording and wanted something new and fresh.

I decied to spray paint the canvas black. Then with a pencil, I freehanded some lyrics to one of my favorite songs....

Who can help but smile when listening to a lil JT?
You know...James Taylor.

After I wrote the words, I just used what I had on hand, I also wanted to use something that would be easy to trace over the lettering without being to thick.
Weapon of choice.....Liquid Paper.

Yeah, that's right.
Then.....
TA DA!

I am in the process of redoing a major wall in my living room gallery style like my hallway.
I plan to incorporate this onto that wall. I will share when I complete that project !
So, please join me back here in Bloggeritaville!

And if you are one of the few that hasn't yet discovered Pinterest, or has yet to join Pinterest and would like to, please leave your email address in either the comment section, or shoot me an email with that information and I will gladly send you a invite!!!

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Tablescape Thursday:

I went for a little different color combination of purples and amber and green.
What do you think?

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I know that this week's Thrifty Thursday participants might be on the slim side. I know many folks are still traveling and making the most of the holidays...but for those that are on top of things and ready to post....please! Link up!

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!

And speaking of friends.....

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I wish you happiness, prosperity, and reality for every dream you’ve dared to dream. Don’t stop – keep dreaming!

Remember this little quote, “the difference between possibility and impossibility lies within YOUR determination.”

With Warmest Regards,

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Sweet Melissa Host Christmas Clematogether

2011-12-27T23:23:00.000-06:00

Hello Friends! I hope your Christmas was a good one! Mine has been one of many counted blessings which is always good. Its been a very busy couple of weeks leading up to the holiday! I hope to bring you up to speed this week before we move into a new year and new adventures.

My friend Sweet Melissa hosted our group of friends, you know the ones that refer to themselves as the Clematis Club, for a "Christmas Clematogether".

Melissa was a wonderful host, welcoming us into her home...

While welcoming us with a smile....

She was so proud of that Christmas sweater she found, as a gag really to garner smiles from our group.

Speaking of our group...here is one side of the room commanding the sofa, while spinning some tales..

Being with these women is always special times.
We have shared so much in our lives, that our friendship goes beyond that, we are a family.

This year instead of store bought gifts my friend Boss and I came up with the idea of HOMEMADE gifts.
And in the name of Christmas, we discovered It was the best idea we have had to date.

My friend Zinnia, Warrior Princess brought her special secret spices...

While we also racked up with wood crafted Santa ornaments, curry dip, English toffee and friendship bread......... jewelry and more wonderful gifts.
My husband and family were delighted...."You should do this every year!!!!"
Of course they say this for their own benefit from the gifts I received.
But I whole heartily agreed!!!

But beyond all the homemade gifts, the greatest gift was evident....

FRIENDSHIP

That is priceless....its the cement.

Alright....yada yada yada...now lets get onto some real pictures that will make you drool, some of the yummies that were brought and shared tonight.....

Including Melissa's incredibly beautiful cheeseball tray.

Tis true! A feast for the eyes! I don't lie!

Might I tempt you with more....
Like this LA Caviar..

LA being "Lower Alabama".

And my homemade salsa-always a favorite with husbands....but they were no where in sight, so no sharing tonight!

The Grinch would not approve.

It was a Whos' feast!
Who-pudding! Roast beast!

WHo Hash...

My stash....

There were so much yumminess we we were running the floor

Melissa's homemade Toffee-it was to die for!

I went back and I went back for more and more and more....

It's enough to make you silly...or perhaps it was the wine.

No! Indeed it was the laughter...which truly is intoxicatingly fine.

As it is when good girlfriends get together!
Hope your Gatherings were as joyful and festive!

Merry Christmas to my friends in Bloggeritaville

2011-12-21T22:22:00.000-06:00

In lieu of Thrifty Thursday this week, I wanted the focus to be on family friends,faith and the first Christmas gift. I hope you will join me next week for Thrifty Thursday.

But lets do something different that day.....lets focus on the best Christmas gift. It can be one from current or long ago. It need not be thrifty, or material. Please join me next week for a fun and different take on our Thursday party!

I ran this last year, and will continue to do so every year. It is a tradition with my family, on Christmas Eve to read this story. I hope that maybe you can share this story with your family on this Christmas Eve, and remember and reflect on this special eve the greatest story ever told....

"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men of good will" (Luke 2:14).

Every Christmas that I can recall from memory, as a child I would go into my mother's dresser and pull out a newsletter that we received in the mail from a local church. I anticipated listening to a particular story that was in it, "The Christmas Guest"every Christmas Eve, as was tradition. Today I love to gather my own children around the fireplace before Christmas, sip from cups of piping hot chocolate while sitting in our coziest of jammy's and read the story to my children. It is one of those Christmas traditions that is so special. It really makes you stop and think about what Christmas-and life itself-is really about.

Don't miss the very things that are in front of you. God's presence (and His "presents" ) is everywhere. I hope that this story touches you. Print it out, preserve it in your dresser or Christmas box and perhaps it will become a tradition with your family too. I hope that every year you will think of how blessed we are to have one another. We are so rich, I don't mean monetarily but in the things that matter most.

Thank you for your friendship, it is one of my "presents". May you be blessed.

Merry Christmas.
Leigh

Luke 2:14
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The Christmas Guest

It happened one day, near December's end Two neighbors called on an old friend. And they found his shop so meager and lean, Made joyful with a thousand bows of green.A nd Conrad was sittin' with face a shining when he suddenly stopped as he stitched a twine. And he said "Oh friends at dawn today,When the rooster was crowing the night away the Lord appeared in a dream to me", and said "I am coming your guest to be."So I've been busy with feet a stir, A strewing my shop with branches of fir. The table is spread and the kettle is shined and over the rafter the holly is twined. Now I'll wait for my Lord to appear and listen closely so I will hear his step - as he nears my humble place, And I open the door and look on his face.

So his friends went home and left Conrad alone. For this was the happiest day he had known For long since his family had passed away and Conrad had spent a many a sad Christmas day. But he knew with the Lord, as his Christmas guest, This Christmas would be the dearest and best. So he listened with only joy in his heart, and with every sound he would rise with a start and look for the Lord to be at his door -Like the vision he'd had a few hours before.

So he ran to the window, after hearing a sound.But all he could see on the snow covered ground Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn And all of his clothes were ragged and worn. But Conrad was touched and he went to the door, And he said, "You know your feet must be frozen and sore".I have some shoes in my shop for you and a coat that will keep you warmer too. So with grateful heart the man went away but Conrad noticed the time of day-and wondered what made the Lord So late and how much longer he'd have to wait.

When he heard a knock he ran to the door But it was only a stranger once more.A bent old lady with a shawl of black With a bundle of kindling piled on her back. She asked for only a place to restBut that was reserved for Conrad's great guest. But her voice seemed to plea - Don't send me away. Let me rest for a while on Christmas day. So old Conrad brewed her a steaming cup and told her to sit at the table and sup. But after she left he was filled with dismay, For he saw that the hours Were slipping away and the Lord hadn't come as he said he would. And Conrad felt sure he'd misunderstood.

When out of the stillness he heard a cry –
"Please help me and tell me where am I."So again he opened his friendly door,and stood disappointed as twice before. It was only a child who had wondered away, and was lost from her family on Christmas day. Again Conrad's heart was heavy and sad -But he knew he should make the little girl glad. So he called her in and he wiped her tear, and quieted all her childish fears. Then he led her back to her home once more.

But as he entered his own darkened door,He knew the Lord was not coming today -For the hours of Christmas had passed away. So he went to his room and knelt down to pray. And he said "Dear Lord, why did you delay?" "What kept you from coming to call on me. For I wanted so much your face to see."When soft in the silence a voice he heard "Lift up your head for I kept my word. Three times my shadow crossed your floorand three times I came to your lowly door. I was the beggar with bruised, cold feet,and I was the woman you gave something to eat. Three times I knocked and three times I came in. And each time I found the warmth of a friend. Of all the gifts love is the best. And I was honored to be your Christmas guest."

Merry Christmas to all my friends in Bloggeritaville. Thank you for dropping by from time to time. I feel blessed to have made the friendships I have through blogging and am so appreciative of that.

From my home to yours, May the Spirit of Christmas live within you this day and everyday.

God Bless.

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #140, Plus a Tablescape.

2011-12-14T17:21:00.000-06:00

Hi! It's Thrifty Thursday! I am your host, Leigh. Thank you so much for stopping by and additional thanks to those who also participate in Thrifty Thursday! I am most delighted to have you join in..for it's YOU who makes it a "show and tell party". (You can click on any pictures for a closer view) *Thrifty Thursday takes place each Thursday and is hosted here at Tales from Bloggeritaville, but the party is a progressive one, visit the links to see all the Thrifty Thursday links to see the thrifty treasures participating bloggers have to share. *Don't forget to copy and paste the Thrifty Thursday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Thrifty Thursday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Thrifty Thursday.

And now, Thrifty Thursday...

I had been wanting an initial for my front door to go on my wreath. Something metal. I couldnt find what I wanted , so until I do...I created my own.

From foam board!

I just hand drew my initial. Then used a razor knife and cut it out. I spray painted it with 2 different metalic paints (gold and copper) and then sealed it. I wired it onto my wreath. And wah-la!

My project cost me less than $3.00 for a monogrammed wreath. (I had the wreath in my attic).

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Tablescape Thursday:

Glitz and Glamour in Bronze and Gold.

Oh!
And peacocks for napkin rings....

And pretty etched drinking glasses for toasting the season!

Wishing you and yours many happy celebrations throughout the season!

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I invite you to come back next week for a list of my TOP GIFTS TO GIVE this year. Its my suggestions to anyone who might be pondering those LAST MINUTE gift giving ideas this year.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Wayfair for your Christmas Shopping List...

2011-12-12T07:40:00.001-06:00

The season is upon us! And might I make a suggestion for the best variety in Christmas shopping.

A department store, if you will, that has it all......but one where you can shop from home.
Wayfair! That's right, Wayfair, the formerly CSN Stores. Same great store, new name and a new website that is easier to navigate.
Not familiar with Wayfair? Wayfair has over 200 online stores where you can find everything from Car beds for kids to stylish furniture, or great cookware!

Just look at these Le Creuset items for the chef on your Christmas list!!

But it doesn't end there. From Bedding to Clothing, Pet Products to Furniture, Wayfair has what you need!

So.....remember Wayfair as you do your Christmas shopping.
And the best thing about Wayfair....you can shop from home. No lines, no waiting...all from the comfort of your coziest PJ's!

I am certainly shopping Wayfair...I am in the midst of a bedroom redo, I'll share with you soon. And some of my products came from Wayfair! Can't wait for you to see.....

Thrifty Thursday #139, Plus a Tablescape!

2011-12-07T21:15:00.000-06:00

Hi! It's Thrifty Thursday! I am your host, Leigh. Thank you so much for stopping by and additional thanks to those who also participate in Thrifty Thursday! I am most delighted to have you join in..for it's YOU who makes it a "show and tell party". (You can click on any pictures for a closer view) *Thrifty Thursday takes place each Thursday and is hosted here at Tales from Bloggeritaville, but the party is a progressive one, visit the links to see all the Thrifty Thursday links to see the thrifty treasures participating bloggers have to share. *Don't forget to copy and paste the Thrifty Thursday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Thrifty Thursday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Thrifty Thursday.

Before I begin Thrifty Thursday, I want to thank you all for such kind words in the past two weeks regarding the deaths of my father in law as well as Big Daddy's grandfather, who both passed coincidentally the same day, the day before Thanksgiving. Your kind words, gestures, cards and prayers were most appreciated. We are so blessed and so touched by the kindness of both friends and strangers. Thank you.

And now, Thrifty Thursday...

Tis the season! I found this set of wise men at Treasures Thrift Store for $3.00. 1.00 per wise man? I'd say THAT's a bargain!

And they look pretty above the hutch that my granddaddy made.

Also at Treasures, I found this lamp shade. I thought so unique. It was $3.50. The shade is made of some sort of material, I don't know what. But there are feathers, actual feathers embedded within the material.

The material is thin, but yet you cannot feel the feathers. An employee at Treasures and I tried in vain to figure out how the shade was made. Eventually I admitted defeat and just bought it. Even Big Daddy commented on the shade....he doesn't notice anything. He loves it.

A freebie! Notice the mantel. My mother, daughter and I attended my cousins annual Girls Crafting Weekend in Mentone. We go each year for "Hanging of the Greens" in the cabin. We buy nothing. We make everything from found materials from the woods. That mantel piece (my mother so kindly made for me) FREE!

(Please excuse the monstrosity TV....and our obsession with storage wars that acts as a subliminal commercial in the photo below)

Finally this platter that I eyeballed for so long in the Southern Living Catalog (before it was Willow House)

I adore all the southern expressions...

Designed and signed by artist Becky Denny. Cost $4.88

***************************************

Tablescape Thursday:

Again....tis the season....how about something sparkly, glittery and you know me...I love things as in nature...

This is how I like to celebrate "deer season"...

Pretty Antlers.

Mixed with starfish...

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Santa Claus Came to Town!

2011-12-06T15:30:00.000-06:00

Santa Claus arrived early recently for my friend Diva's annual Snacks with Santa!

Diva is always so kind to invite me to photograph the event!

Santa arrived to a houseful of delighted children of all ages.

He read "Twas the Night Before Christmas".

After the story, he took Christmas request list...

Even my own children did me the favor of attending this year.
You never outgrow Santa!

By the smile on Sister Sledge's face, she must have made the good list.
Although the final verdict is still out until Christmas Eve!

“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.”

Merry Christmas!

Clouded

2011-12-01T23:55:00.001-06:00

Y'all...please forgive me! Today IS Thursday! Tomorrow is my father in law's memorial service. I havent even realized until NOW, 11:52 PM Thursday evening that I completley forgot ab TT! I promise tomorrow is a new week and I will finally be back in the swing of things. Two funerals and well over a thousand miles in a week has my head cloudy...
Happy Weekend, y'all!

Thanksgiving Celebrations 2011

2011-11-28T01:10:00.002-06:00

I hope your Thanksgiving was one that had you reflecting on many blessings. Mine did! While we were saddened by the losses of precious family members, we feel so fortunate to have such great memories and have had such good times!
Thank you all for such kind sentiments regarding the passing of both Big Daddy's grandfather and my father in law last week. Despite the loss, we were determined to celebrate their lives and know they would want us to continue on with plans. Therefore we did! We had our annual Thanksgiving celebration, hosted my my cousins Michael and Christie.
As always, they out did themselves...and as always I outdid myself with the seconds of food :)
After lunch, my family drove to Indiana to be with Big Daddy's side of the family and attend the funeral of his grandfather. We did get to spend some time with family up there, that we don't get to see often enough. Grandma is doing remarkably well. I am sure in the days to come, it will be more difficult, but his illness was one in which his passing is considered a blessing. He has the ultimate Thanksgiving, that I am certain.

Here is a look at our Thanksgiving celebration!...

Post Lunch :

Lots of picture taking....

Games (Dirty Santa)

And of course the annual Turkey Toss.....

Then it was in the car and on the way to Indiana....

Where we spent quality time with the Bratina bunch....

And on Saturday it was a rushed trip back home, leaving at the crack of dawn, literally.
Well actually before the crack of dawn....
but in everything there is something to benefit.
Like this beautiful show, that I would have missed had I slept in....

We got home JUST in time to watch the ball game.
Yes.
THE BALLGAME.
And the Tide ROLLED.
ROLL TIDE!
It was a game, well played by both teams.
This week, I cannot wait to show/tell you about my time spent with the "Man in RED"
Aka, "The Big Man"
Stay Tuned.

But for now....I am exhausted!

Thanksgiving ...and being truly THANKFUL.

2011-11-22T14:10:00.001-06:00

Dear Friends of Tales from Bloggeritaville,

I wanted to take this moment to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving. I hope that this holiday will allow you to reflect on the many blessings that God has given. I will not be posting this week, instead I will be spending some time with my family and I hope that you too will find yourself surrounded by loved ones.

We learned today that my husbands grandfather passed away at the long ripened age of 95. Grandpa was such a joy in my life. I never had a grandpa, mine had passed on well before my birth. Grandpa seemed to adopt me as his own. He was one who created and planted and would want to fix anything I would pose to him. I wrote a specific story a few years ago about his fruit picker: Click HERE for FRUIT. As well as one about his GREEN THUMB.

(My son "Bama" and Grandpa cira 1996)

In an unrelated story, My father in law (Ernie) is expected to pass at any moment as well. As I told my mother in law today, through love of course, "Ernie is well past his expiration date by several years". Seven to be exact. He is a man of great conviction and grace. I wrote about Ernie's long illness and his faith Here and Ernie's LIFE stories HERE.

(Ernie cira 2007)

These are two dear and precious men that I will forever be shaped by and reflect fondly upon. What blessings that have been to me and my family. We will celebrate them and the lives they lead. There is no sadness, only for missing them, but their lives here were long and well spent. I can only hope the same fate one day.

Its a bittersweet holiday, but one that will be relected on with fond memories with loved ones.

I invite you to join me on Monday, November 28th. Tales from Bloggeritaville will then have it's holiday look and music. I hope you will join me for the holiday celebrations, as well as the return of Thrifty Thursday.

For comments, I would LOVE to know what you are thankful for, and what Thanksgiving traditions you have.
To see mine, you can click here.

Until then, Safe Travels, Many Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving!

All my love,
Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #138 + a Tablescape!

2011-11-16T18:03:00.000-06:00

I recently had the chance to visit one of my favorite places: Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro.

I've sung its praises before.

So has Oprah.

Not that Im comparing myself to Oprah.

Certainly not.

Unclaimed Baggage is where your stuff, and others people stuff end up when airports loose luggage.

Yep.

On person's misfortune and irritation is another persons treasure and joy.

Or so they say.

Anyway, on this day I found this painting for my mother (lover of horses)....

It is painted on canvas. Its approx. 2x3 feet.

I looked it up. Its by an artist from New Orleans. His work is sold and featured in Jackson Square, as well as local art galleries in and around NOLA.
I couldnt determine it's value on the street, in the frenchmarket. But we paid $6.88 for it.
Certainly as steal!

In another local thrift shop we came across these Russian nesting eggs that are all Santa's.
They were $3.00 each!

LOVE them!

And THAT is the Thrifty Thursday post for this week...

What "CHEW" got?

***************************************
Tablescape Thursday:

Something earthy. Something natural. Something fallish.

Hammered silver plates.
For the charger....how about sliced logs?
And the placemat, made of rocks!

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!

Next week, I will be right back here hosting Thrifty Thursday so join me!

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Dia de los Muertos aka Day of the Dead Festival

2011-11-06T12:56:00.000-06:00

Dia de los Muertos is a celebration for the dead held once a year in the

midst of life. Birmingham's annual Day of the Dead Festival is very much a celebration of life and a joyful and beautiful event where we pay homage and respects to our dearly departed by celebrating their lives with music, dance, art, food, spirits, laughter, joy and tears...it is a blessed and sacred day of REMEMBRANCE.

Festival Patrons are invited to create alters of remembrance for their dearly departed.
The alters are lavish, eclectic and "folksy".
It really is a work of art in homage to loved ones.
Their life, played out through art of various forms....

Here my friends Zinnia (Princess Warrior) and Sweet Melissa are looking at the alters.
Melissa and I both got into the spirit by painting our faces in the traditional paint of day of the dead.
Think Happy Skeletons. You will see many people with painted faces at the festival...

This lovely lady is standing in front of the alter she created for her loved ones...

Beautiful.
Love her feather lashes!

Our loved ones being remembered can also include pets...

Melissa is taking it all in....

This kind gentleman was a photographer, who wanted to take our photograph!

There were lots of pretty painted people to photograph...

The sun sets....

And the festival takes on a whole new "life" if you will.

Traditional Latin food is available at the festival, just as it is in Mexico. But at the festival we attended, the classic American standards are also available. Zinnia and Melissa enjoyed some authentic tamales..

Pork and Chicken. The pork received four thumbs up.

Spirits enjoyed spirits.... And in my case an ice cold sprite. :) In a Kenny Chesney cup no less.

The cups were extras from a concert. However I like to think that my loved ones were treating me to a lil something special. I mean, coincidental?

I think not.

There were firepits throughout the festival to warm bones.

Butterflys are used alot throughout the festival, for their significance to living one life before going to sleep for a while, renewing a body then awaking to a newly restored life.

The remembrance moves into traditional dancing...

These young girls were balancing actual firelit candles atop their heads as they danced.

After the dancing is a Roll Call celebration, where a departed loved one’s name to the memorial roll call. A representative it is asked you try to be present to answer “here” or “present” on their behalf when the roll is read at approximately 6:55pm.

Following the roll is the Muertos Dixieland Jazz Procession...This year I added the names of friends and family who have passed on. It was nice to hear their names read aloud in the celebration to honor their life. I think as often as we speak of them, say their names, they continue to be a part of our lives.

Following the roll call, the Jazz Funeral Procession...

I love this shot of the festival!
Can you guess why?

If you ever have a chance to go to a Dia de los Muertos, I suggest you go. Its a wonderful family event!

(Click on any pictures to make larger. Please do not photo share without permission)

Thrifty Thursday #137, Plus a Tablescape

2011-11-02T20:54:00.002-05:00

Hi! It's Thrifty Thursday! I am your host, Leigh. Thank you so much for stopping by and additional thanks to those who also participate in Thrifty Thursday! I am most delighted to have you join in..for it's YOU who makes it a "show and tell party". I also participate in Tablescape Thursday the host of that fun carnival is the Hostess with the Mostess...Susan of Between Naps on the Backporch. That's no lie or exaggeration, each week I visit Susan's porch and just long to be a guest at any of her tablescapes...especially those held on the porch.

*If you do not know what Thrifty Thursday is or need more info on Thrifty Thursday you can go here.
*Don't forget to copy and paste the Thrifty Thursday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Thrifty Thursday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Thrifty Thursday.

*Don't forget to link back here to Bloggeritaville on your post so friends of yours can go and visit new friends that are participating in Thrifty Thursday!Please be sure to link back to the host blog, Tales from Bloggeritaville, so your fellow bloggers who are participating today, will get lots of visits, as well.
*Please do not add your link below until your Thrifty Thursday post is actually published to your blog.
My Thrifty Thursday today is a double post, for it is also a tablescape.

These images are from Country Living Magazine, but they offer great inspiration for a terrific Halloween display:

Remember last week I shared some of these crows too. I purchased mine at The Dollar Tree.

My local thrift store has a special section devoted to seasonal items. It is chocked full of miscellaneous items. I purchased two "decor" skulls there last week that I used also in my Halloween display on my buffet. All of these items are vintage items. Shop your thrift store, ebay, and anyplace you can find inexpensive decor. I also saw some great items at Old Time Pottery. Use what you have and mix it with what you can find for a great eclectic display.

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T20:31:00.005-05:00

I thought you were lost! The sun is just setting, there is still time! Hurry!

Come, just follow the signs...

Everyone is welcome!

You are just in time for the celebration...

Welcome to another fantastic annual Halloween celebration at the home of my friend, "High Mae".

The most incredible hostess that she is, was fashioned in her gorgeous witchy woman outfit. Ready to welcome neighborhood goblins into her home for festivities, games and delicious food.

Her home was well decorated! Take a look around...

Is this ghost on her front door not adorable...and would be so easy to create!

Courtney even "decorated" her dog, Sam!

Big Daddy was more apt to noticing the food:

Vampire Skin Rolls (Ham & Cream Cheese Wraps)

Mummy Mush ( sweet cheese ball)

Mummy Lips (apple slices with peanut butter and marshmallows)

Finger Nails (Seasoned Almond Slices)

And goblin punch!

After eating we got ready for trick or treating...

Sister Sledge was a "country girl" and J Smooth was a "monster"...

And aside from the little Darth Vader, Zombies Ruled!

There were angels and Egyptian princess' as well...

And a little calf that was to cute for words.

We even had a crazed Auburn fan in the house...

Did you see Big Daddy?

He is a sport. Dressing up because I wanted to go as one of my hero's and she really needed her duet partner...

Of course no one under the age of thirty really knew who we were...

But I did. And I had a blast!

Love me some Loretta!
Do you remember?

Hope your weekend was equally as rocking and fun!
So tell me.....what did YOU go as this past Halloween?

(High Mae Previous Halloween Celebrations:
2009 and 2010)

Thrifty Thursday #136, Plus a Halloween Tablescape

2011-10-26T18:39:00.003-05:00

Now onto Thrifty Thursday....

I found these whimsical lanterns at the thrift store for $6.88 for the pair....

I put them on my mantel, although I don't think this is where they will stay. This was just for photographing purposes. Big Daddy would rather you notice his big eyesore..uh! I mean TV! yeah, TV.
Ahhh, who am I kidding. Its a monstrosity of an eyesore.
What is it when men at their TV's?
But I digress....

I just love the lanterns! I cannot stop looking at them!

I wonder how many times I can say the word "Whimsical"?
"Whimsical"?
"Whimsical"?

"Whimsical"?
Yes?

And THAT is the Thrifty Thursday post for this week...

What "CHEW" got?

***************************************
Tablescape Thursday:

I am celebrating Halloween this week with a Fall Harvest Tablescape..

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

At Home (Again) /Because I LOVE it.

2011-10-20T22:50:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who came to the Thrifty Thursday party yesterday! I really appreciate it. It's not a party without all of you!
Today, I thought I'd show you around my all time favorite local store...AT HOME in Homewood, Alabama. It's safe to say that I'd take anything in here.

Doubters?

Follow me.....

Want rustic elegance? Talk about luxury.....

Mark that down on my wish list.

And might as well add these too it:

Cool dresser that looks like suitcases. Clever. And could easily be duplicated on a budget.

You will see the running theme here in much of this post.

Rustic.
Love.

I love my leather sofa.
It was actually at Big Daddy's insistence.
I wish mine, however not to far off, was this exact style.
Classic....

Love the Indian rug pillows.

And here, rustic meets glamour in these to die for slipper chairs...

I have "a thing" for signs.
Love these.

So livable.
So beautiful.
So realistic.
NOTHING pretentious.

Check out these living spaces:

Pretty sure I could just move into the store and be perfectly content.

Like it too?

There's plenty of "rooms"!

At Home

2921 18th St
Birmingham, AL 35209-2511
(205) 879-3510

Tell them you came via Bloggeritaville. ;)

Have a wonderful weekend, my friends!

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #135, Plus a Tablescape

2011-10-19T20:22:00.002-05:00

This week I am excited about having Jenn as my guest Thrifty Thursday host!

So, may I introduce to you, Jenn....

***

Hi I'm Jenn from Arcadian Home, an e-commerce website that follows top home decor ideas and trends from around the world. I've been a part of their team for several months. I have always had an obsession with home decor, ever since decorating my humble little dollhouse, and some of my favourite topics to write about as a freelance journalist is interior design. The posts on Tales from Bloggeritaville are always inspiring, and I can't thank them enough for letting me write here today! Decorating with antique home accessories is fun and really personalizes a space, especially when working with vintage signs. They add some merriment to a home decor plan as well as a glimpse into the past, and vintage signs can be used in just about any room of the house. Here are eight stylish examples of that.

My Ideal Home via

An old pharmacy sign works well in this kitchen because of the complementary colour palette - the gold and black lettering looks striking against the white backdrop.

All Things Styled via

Guests will love staying in this guest room with an old-fashioned cottage sign hung above the bed like wall art. The quilted bedding also looks very comfy.

Urban Casita via

A retro eating area with a vintage sign for cola is the focal point of the space, and matches the fun red mesh baskets and mini palm plant that is mirrored above.

Shelterness via

There's no shortage of eclectic furniture and home accessories in this living room, from the bold-coloured chairs and funky light fixture to the retro sign above the fireplace.

Cote de Texas via

A country-inspired home office, with an antique desk and chair, becomes even more thrifty with two old-fashioned signs on the wall.

Funky Junk Interiors via

A post on vintage signs wouldn't be complete without this incredibly unique staircase stamped with popular brands from the 50s and 60s - it may be an unusual place for such advertising but it's conversation-worthy nonetheless.

Shelterness via

Retro signs with neon lights are truly whimsical, and adds a light-hearted centrepiece to this transitional hallway space.

Decor Happy via

Vintage signs look great even in more formal sophisticated rooms - here, the uniform lettering and framing helps to integrate this rare highway signage.

Thanks Jenn for visiting from Arcadian Home - your one stop shop for tons of home accessories and decor..say hello to them and let them know you read Jenn's work here!

And THAT is the Thrifty Thursday post for this week...

What "CHEW" got?

***************************************
Tablescape Thursday:

Brown + Aqua+ Rustic+ Glamourous Glass=

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I would also like to invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!

XOXO

LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH

LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday #134, Plus a Tablescape

2011-10-12T20:38:00.001-05:00

***

First, if you didnt see my message earlier this week, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who extended get well wishes as well as encouragment for Big Daddy. I am feeling MUCH better, after finishing out a Z pack. You are all so special to me and I appreciate your kind words. Thankyou, from the bottom of my heart.

This week, for Thrifty Thursday, I actually have an upcycle...

My friends and I hosted an 80's Themed Party for my friend, Sweet Melissa.

I hope you saw my post on it. If not, CLICK HERE.

We had a great time!

For the party,

We picked two drinks to feature as signature drinks.

We wanted a board that would properly "advertise" our drink specials at our party.

I had actually been thinking of doing this project anyway, and the party was only added encouragement.

I had a piece of artwork, one that I had aquired years ago at Kirklands. I had it up for sometime, before I decided it was to dark. I took it down and put it into a closet where it sat for at least a year.

Then the project idea came up.

I pulled it out, along with my supply of chalkboard paint and went to work spraying the artwork...

I used a piece of paper (for sheer laziness) and moved it around the frame to keep the paint off the frame itself. A wiser person would actually tape off the frame.

I use this chalkboard paint. But any brand will do.
I use several coats.
SEVERAL...

Once the board was covered and painted, I still felt it needed some zing...

I had some metalic spray paint also in my basement, because I am a graffiti artist in my off time (yeah, right) and so I sprayed it out into a bag and used a kitchen sponge to pick it up.

Then I ran the sponge over the raised/relief areas of my frame and allowed it to pick up the gold.
I didnt press down hard, just dragged it across allowing the paint to come off where it may...

(Before and After on each side)

I liked much better....

I even touched some areas of the frame that werent raised. A brush here and there...

And finally...

Wah-lah!

But I wasn't done.
No, here is where the real talent was needed. I had my assistants come in and help me.... My daughter Sister Sledge (L) and her BFF "T-Mac" (R) with the artwork that would be ON the chalkboard....

I found some of the coffehouse chalkboard markers at Hobby Lobby. Then I wrote out what I wanted the board to see, leaving all the design elements up to them.

Please dont report me to child services for having them write out the names to alcoholic drinks.
They were none the wiser....

I think they did a phenominal job!

I put the frame on a easel that my Aunt Gloria gave to me...

And THAT is my Thrifty Thursday post for this week...

What "CHEW" got?

***************************************

For my Tablescape this week...

I was all "in the mood"...Fall is finally in the air here in the south....depending on the day, but I'll take what I can get. Today it was 76 for the high. That's FALL y'all!

So I headed out to one of my favorite stores for Tablescape inspiration,
Harmony Landing....

If that doesn put you in the spirit of SPIRITS & Halloween,

well....I dont know what will!

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some other great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.
I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:
<

Put on Your Leg Warmers and Tease up Your Hair! It's an 80's Party!

2011-10-10T09:52:00.003-05:00

First and foremost, a special thank you is in order. First to Big Daddy for posting on my behalf when I "went down quickly" last Tuesday evening. He had no clue what he was doing in posting. And he somehow managed to interpret through my benadryl induced coma my instructions. I also want to thank all of you for your kind comments both to me and to Big Daddy. I count my blessing each morning and every night, and my Bloggeritaville friends are always on my list. Thank you!
And finally, Thank goodness for Z packs. Tis the season of sinus infection....but I got my Z pack from calling in to my wonderful doctor and am now almost good as new!

Now onto more important matters at hand today...

Oh, the 80's......bad fashion, big hair, teen beat magazine, synthetic music. Aside from the hairbands I still rock and love, I am glad that decade moved on. However, for my friend, "Sweet Melissa", I would embrace it again in the name of love. Melissa is getting married. And she knew we were planning a shower. But Melissa isn't your average girl, no...she's extraordinary, which makes her so "awesome" (if you will) and she suggested a 80 themed bridal shower.

And so it was. We came up with a cute invitation. I hide the personal info so no serial killer would show up at the house. That's never fun. But....you can get an idea (click to enlarge):

Let the Party Begin!

Step Inside...

I created this chalkboard sign for our specialty drinks using a framed picture that I was no longer using. The original picture really was pretty, but I wasn't making practical use of it like I would a chalkboard frame. I will share the "How" tutorial later this week, but I am sure you can figure it out. Its not even rated on a difficulty scale. Yes, it's THAT easy!

I had my daughter and her friend do the lettering.
Please don't tell child services I had them write down the names of drinks.
They were none the wiser, really.

Here is a look inside the poolhouse...

We went with candies that were popular in the 80's and neon cupcakes. We also had what I call "good party food". But it's what you see at parties so I didn't photograph.
If we are being honest, I was to busy shoveling in the cheeseball , crackers and delicious dips and vegetable tray to have a moment to photograph, but lets keep that amongst ourselves.

We got albums from the thriftstore. I found vintage 80's teenbeats at a flea market. We hung the albums and posters from teenbeat throughout the poolhouse:

We even used some of the old advertising inside teenbeat.

Hello! Alyssa Milano!!!
Girls wanted to be her.
Guys wanted to date her.
Young girls wanted to date her "father" (Tony Danza)....
Yes! Young Alyssa....She made it to the party too...

Now the record albums, we hung from the ceiling in our very own basement converted to dance club!

We "aint't " kidding around with this 80's party.
Way cool!
And the kids will make good use of it, even after our night of break dancing is long gone and the broken bones are mended.

Look!
The guest are arriving and everyone looks GREAT!!!!
The 80's a back.
Check out everyone's duds!

Its a moment for fashion police everywhere.
Begin issuing the citations.

But wait! Look who has made an appearance at our party..

Why! "He" lives and breaths..

MJ!

Really its Melissa soon to be last name that begins with a "J". But lets pretend....

(cue the thriller music)

If she isn't channeling the great MJ, then I'm Sylvia Brown.

Here is a look at some of our guest attire:

Ode to Big Bangs.

Layered with Legwarmers:

What can I say about my friend Flo?
I think she speaks for herself...

Jon came and worked the "bar" in his members only jacket, collar up, mind you. He was kind enough to escort his wife Rene, who I am certain just came from a ZZ Top video.

You remember the one?

Here is me and Z. I love Z's crimped hair! Wish I had thought of that!

Even Madonna managed to come by!

I wonder if that outfit will make Lourdess new clothing line? Hmmmm...

Oh, I guess the 80's weren't so bad after all.

Or perhaps it was the "Sweet Melissa" I was drinking that blurs my memory.

But, Let's promise to keep our legwarmers in the drawer.

But promise to still love Jon Bon Jovi.

Because we can't give up everything from the 80's.

Why would we?

Heck, I am still hanging on to Big Daddy. I discovered him cira 1981.
Which really can make me appreciate the 80's.

And speaking of which, tomorrow is our anniversay.
Happy Anniversary Big Daddy!
Thanks for putting up and caring for and about this crazy ol chic, even after all these years.

Rock on, my lovely Bloggeritaville Friends!

See you back in Bloggeritaville tomorrow! There's much to post about!

LIVE*LAUGH*LOVE

Leigh

2011-10-05T22:24:00.003-05:00

It's "Big Daddy", husband of Leigh. Hey...my first post. Leigh is sick in bed and asked me to post that Thrifty Thursday will return next week. She'll be up and running then. At least we hope.
The family doesnt function well without her.

Hope I did it right.

Thrifty Thursday #133

2011-09-28T17:02:00.000-05:00

***

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to swing by a local festival. I love the ones that feature both local artist as well as good old fashioned "JUNQUE".

It "sounds" better like that!

While there, I purchased this piece of original artwork in a clearance bin for $10.00. It is an original photograph taken in Germany of a bicycle. The photograph was then digitized. I like the look of it, and for $10.00 it was a bargain. I am clueless as to where I will put it in my house.

I collect antique boxes (among other things). I purchased this orange box for $6.00 and a black one for $8.00

I also purchased some silver candles for $3.50

This silver "Jesus statue" (from Mexico) for less than $4.00.

***************************************

I am not participating in tablescape this week. For me this past week of running kids around, followed by a weekend getaway. There might have been food (ok, who am I kidding....probably to much food) but as far as tablescapes...they took a hit.

Such is the glamourous life of being a mom.....
but I wouldnt trade it for anything!

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thrifty Thursday #132, Plus a Tablescape

2011-09-21T19:32:00.000-05:00

***

I hope you were able to "come along on my road trip" yesterday to the Boom days Festival.

In case you missed it, Buckle up for adventure and soulful sounds!

But lets not forget the original destination.....Thrifty Thursday!

Welcome!!!
I'm so glad you're here!

On a recent thrifting adventure I came across this gorgeous Celtic cross.

I like the aged patina that it has with the rubbed details.

It was $9.00. More than I like to pay at the thrift store, but I was in love. It is a fairly large piece and very heavy. It found a home in my kitchen, but has moved from several places throughout my home. I like to move things often. Keeps it interesting, I suppose.

Now onto the Tablescape Thursday segment of the post....which also happens to be thrifty!

This tablescape is a country setting strawberries and tea.

The quilt was a thrift store find. $20.00. It is really an old quilt, not a reproduction, and was in good condition. The colors I loved.

All of the dishes, my moms! Free. A clear depression glass plate. A basic white mug. Doily that was inherited.

The teaspoon purchased at an antique shop very inexpensively. $2.00

The teapot, a gift from my cousin, Gina.

The silver pitcher, found at "the Longest Yard sale" (which was in August, be sure to google it and participate next year!).

I encourage you to visit my friend Susan of Between Naps on the Porch for some great Tablescape Thursday participants.

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Boom Days

2011-09-20T19:41:00.003-05:00

On Saturday I had the pleasure of attending Ft. Payne's Boom Day Festival for the second time. I love going! I have family in the area, and we use it as a time to meet up, enjoy one another company, dance...sing along...and do some toe tapping to some great music.

The Boom Days Heritage Celebration, Fort Payne’s annual art and music festival, displays citizens of Fort Payne taking a second look at their past and the heritage passed down to them through the arts and crafts of our area. It features dozens of the South’s finest visual artists and traditional craftsmen, as well as dozens of the area’s most talented musical groups.

Four blocks of the city’s downtown district are closed to traffic while art shows occupy Alabama Park and City Park, and a variety of music flows from four outdoor stages. Downtown merchants operate sidewalk sales, and cultural and historical displays are mounted at the Fort Payne Culture & Heritage Center and the Depot Museum.

What I lacked in mentioning about the Boom Days Festival...
Its a prime place to people watch!
It's a favorite sport. I come by it honest....inherited.

It's also a great opportunity for some great photo ops, which I hope you might enjoy in my post.

Mother badly wanted this bus. She loved the name of the band, and thought it'd make a great family bus for car trips. Call us the Partridge Family....

Lucky for me, my cousin Marc is a gifted musician and was playing in the festival this year with his bandmate, Jerry Bloom:

I was lucky enough to have a "backstage pass" made for me by my cousin Marc's daughter...

It's all in who you know, people. :0

Now, allow me to introduce you to my adorable and talented cousin, Marc....

He and Jerry are: "Jerry B and Marc with a C"....

Did I mention he is single?

Yeah, yeah...all the single ladies....

He loves me so.
I'm certain even more so now.

But let's not forget his other partner...

Not sure about a package deal. LOL

Aside from my cousin, there was other talent and happenings about town...

This young lady followed Marc and Jerry. She was half of another talented duo. They sounded great!

Come on, lets take a look around town...

My friends from Rock Candy Band were also playing.
You might recall the affinity I have for Rock Candy from earlier post.

I guarantee Rock Candy will have you up and dancing.
They have an energy that is contagious!!!!

Family of the Neville Brothers were there, not only to contribute to the music...but to take it in.
This is Aaron's nephew:

This is my mother's nephew (pictured with me and my mom)

We had such a great time.

There was a car show. My mom and uncle love to reminisce about cars and "the olden days".

Their brother had one like that one (above).
Memories.
In my dreams, this is what I drive..

Ft. Payne is the home of the country group, Alabama..

And big black poodles.

And cool motorcycles.

:)

There were alot of folks to see!

Last year I became familiar with multi-talented artist, Fleetwood Covington.
Fleetwood's medium is paints on reclaimed barn tin.
And he paints something close to my heart....things of the south, and scenes from music of the south.
Its something that touches my heart.
His too.
He also plays the music. Blues.
I can appreciate some blues.
So can Fleetwood, and he does it well....

I purchased a beautiful painting from this artist, who designed the official poster of Boom Days.

Also, in Ft Payne...right in the heart of Boom Days...

Hammer Time!
(Can't touch this...)

After I loaded up on deals, I took the long way home.
Country Roads, take me home.
To the place I belong...

Hope your weekend was just as fabulous!

Friday Flashback

2011-09-15T23:00:00.002-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL

But Here are a couple of my favorite featured participants in case you missed it.

Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it!

Soooooo many great contributors!

My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

Shanthi Home had a creation that was gorgeous:

And finally....fall is in the air! I love this creation by Artsy Vava:

And Flea Market Lady had these lovelies:

I LOVE all of these Thrifty deals! Great job this week, y'all!

To those of you who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did. Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

I invite you to come and visit me at my Foodie blog, Plates and Places.

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #131, Plus a Tablescape

2011-09-14T19:40:00.001-05:00

***

Ever since school got back into session, it seems I have been chasing my shirt tail. Not enough hours in the day it seems. But somehow, I did a little bit of thrifting this week.

I came upon a great little consignment sale of Christmas items.

Can you believe it's only 100 days until Christmas!

Anyway, check out my finds....

These Three Wise Men...

They are made from clay, I think? All cream tones.

$6.75, for three wise men?
I'd call that a bargain! ;)

Also came across this vintage style ornament from Dept 56, for $3.50...

I assume that's Santa's "other vehicle".

And finally:

For $3.oo these 4 hand painted Santa ornaments..

These Santa's are made from wood.
Classic.
And that is my finds this week....what did you find?

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Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

This week I had a friend over for a quick lunch. I made Sesame Noodle Salad and got some takeout egg rolls....

Just the two of us....

And speaking of food.....

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I PLEDGE to you to have Friday Flashback going this week. Last week...well, life got in the way. Nothing bad, just life as busy as it is sometimes. Thank you for understanding and being such a friend to me. I always enjoy my friends here at Bloggeritaville.

YOU ARE A BLESSING!!!!!!

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

The 10th Anniversary of 9-11-01, Retrospect

2011-09-09T10:50:00.000-05:00

Today, in lieu of the anniversary of 9-11-01, I wanted to run the post below instead of a Friday Flashback. Join me next week for that.

I wrote the post below on the sixth anniversary of 9-11. This weekend will mark the 10th anniversary. The emotions, just as raw. In remembrance I wanted to republish that post. I hope that my post capsulizes what most Americans felt and remember about that day. While it is a post that is very personal to me, I invite you to read because as Americans I feel that the emotions, no matter our diversity as individuals, are ones we can all relate to.

Within the post is photographs that I took when my family was in New York September of 2003, not quite 2 years following the attacks. You can click on any of the photos for a larger view. It was an emotional moment for my family as we visited. The silence there was deafening. There is a photo below of my son, "Bama" (age 13 at the time) that for me, really encompasses that time we spent there on that hallowed ground.

While standing at the foot of rumble, I noticed a huge sign on one building across from ground zero with this quote,

"The human spirit is not measured by the size of the act, but the size of the heart".
May there be peace.

The 6th Anniversary of 9/11, my feelings by Leigh

Today is the solemn 6th anniversary of 9/11. It is a somber day, a day that honestly changed me as a person. It changed millions of people. This is just my story, my personal reflection. I do not mean to take anything away from those that actually lived through it all-but didn't we all do that? We all experienced it. It isn't often that a simple "man" lives through a day when it suddenly changes the course of history and the world "he" lives in. It is a day I will never forget as long as I shall live. I recall the innocence of that morning preparing my daughter, "Sister Sledge" for kindergarten. I also had a new baby at home, J. Smooth was almost a year old. The biggest issue in my day was what kind of cereal Sister Sledge would want and to turn on Sesame Street so J Smooth could watch "Elmo's World". Then a neighbor came to my door and told me to put on my TV. I asked my child to allow me to turn Elmo so I could see why my neighbor was so insistent. It was then that I saw the replay of the first plane crash into the tower, minutes later another. This day all innocence was lost.

The remainder of the day is largely a blur. I recall being physically sick ,crying throughout the day. My mother came over to sit with me, I didn't want to be alone. I called my husband and begged him to come home from work to just hold me. I felt guilt, because so many would not have those seemingly indescriptive moments again. As an proud American citizen, I have never had the feelings that I experienced that day. I felt violated, scared, sad, angry, unsafe, threatened. For the first time that I recall in my life I had experienced the ugliness that is prejudice and hate towards me as an American because of my beliefs. It was a sickening and disgusting feeling. It is a feeling that reoccurs every time I see a rerun of the twin tower images sinking & melting into the ground. To this day it still brings me to tears every time I see those images. The emotions are still so raw and intensely painful.

That day taught me allot...about what is important. About freedom-how I didn't realize that I took it for granted. I have always been a proud "Flag waving American" before that day, but after Sept 11, things changed inside my soul. For the sacrifice of our forefathers. For helping your fellow man. I know that personally I began to reexamine the priorities in my life. I sat down and wrote letters to close friends and family members, telling them my feelings and how blessed I am to have them in my life. There were lessons learned that day through the lives lost and the tears shed. I didn't know a soul that perished on that day personally, but I grieved for each of one them.

My deepest condolences to the many people who lost their lives and who lost a loved one on that tragic day. I grieve for all of those lost as though they were my own family, friends and coworkers. For the ash the permeated the air on that day blanketed the nation. We will all forever be affected by that day. While most of us were not there physically- we were there, through our TV and computer screens, living through it.
That day still haunts me and perhaps it always will. I think most Americans were profoundly affected by that day six years ago. But I also know this, that Americans are quite resilient and continue to work their way back from this tragedy. We all have been able to witness the strength of New York City, and its economic and spiritual recovery. There is immense pride in the city as well as this great nation. Through tragedy comes strength. I think that is what happened six years ago. We realized our devotion to our country, it awakened a truth and perspective that we sometimes overlook....freedom.

Today, I fly old glory from my rooftop with pride that we still stand strong in the face of terrorism and adversity. Terrorism is meant to cause fear so that control can be gained. It is hard, but we must go on and not show fear. We are not but one country-we are millions of individuals of many creeds, color, ethnicity and religion and we together make up this great land that we love.

At the dedication of the Gettysburg Memorial, barely four months after the last soldier staggered from another Pennsylvania field, Abe Lincoln said, “We cannot dedicate. We cannot consecrate. We cannot hallow this ground. The brave men living and dead who struggled here have consecrated far above our poor power to add or detract.”
May those that lost their lives rest in peace and may peace be found by those who continue on. My sincere thanks to those serving in our military, it is the most honorable thing you can do as an American. My sincere gratitude to God for allowing me the privilege to be born into this great nation. May God Bless the USA!

Thrifty Thursday #130, Plus a Tablescape

2011-09-07T16:14:00.001-05:00

I saw a sign recently in an outdoor store. I thought I could make it myself, for a friend's vacation getaway. I made it for FREE. A piece of wood from my basement, and sticks from my yard, cut with snipers and glued and nailed onto the board.

It's perfect for her Get-Away place.

A reminder to for the world to just "Go Away" while she is there....

Free. How's that for thrifty?

**************************

Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

Tonight we are cooking up some Asian cuisine.

And an Asian tablescape is only fitting...

And speaking of food.....

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday #129, Plus a Tablescape

2011-08-31T18:38:00.000-05:00

Recently at my local thrift I came across this angelic bust:

I recall seeing it in Southern Living catalog some time ago. Of course, the Southern Living catalog is no longer, it was purchased by Willow House. Maybe they will carry something similar in the future.

I loved the aged feel and the patina. Of course, it does have some chipping along the wing, but to me...it only adds to the character of this angel.

Even I am a little chipped. ;)

The price....$2.48

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Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

For this week's tablescape...well, admittedly a cheat. I saw this tablescape at an antique store. I loved this cobalt blue depression glass. Gorgeous!!!

And speaking of food.....

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Thrifty Thursday #128, Plus a Tablescape!

2011-08-24T16:54:00.000-05:00

My thrifty items this week was found at an Antique Mall in Cullman, Alabama. They had gotten in a big shipment from Europe.

It is an olive jar from Italy.

There were many jars of different sizes, as well as terracotta tiles from fired ovens.

My jar was $15.00. I thought a great price for an authentic olive jar/vase.

I cannot wait to see what you found this week for Thrifty Thursday!!!

**************************

Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

This week my tablescape is very southern, like me sugah! From the blue and white toile dishes, to the fresh cut blue flowers on the table. For place settings I tied on a small tag and wrote in my guest name. It's the dog days of summer. I cannot think of a better way to celebrate that with my homemade chicken salad sandwiches, Pimento Cheese Sandwiches, Cucumber Sandwiches, Gazpacho Soup and Sold my Soul to the Deviled Eggs, some Sweet Tea to drink and for dessert, my homemade Black & Blueberry Cobbler.

Yesssss, Mam!

And speaking of food.....

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday! This week I am featuring Italian Style Cauliflower.

If you are interested in my Southern Fare featured in my tablescape above, the links are all direct link to the recipes. Enjoy the dog days of summer!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Friday Flashback

2011-08-19T07:32:00.004-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL

But Here are a few featured participants in case you missed it.

Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it!

Soooooo many great contributors!

My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

Marie, over at My Lil Pink Pocket, had this very pretty lima bean wreath:

From Gardners to Bergers featured this great thrifty lamp redo. I love when someone has a vision of something even grander. This was the case!

I am *in love* with this gorgeous bench that Flea Market Lady picked up in Atlanta.

Isn't it incredible????

I LOVE all of these Thrifty deals! Great job this week, y'all!

To those of you who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did. Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

I invite you to come and visit me at my Foodie blog, Plates and Places.

Today I am featuring Leighta Fudd's Apple Cake!!!

Deeeeeeeeeeeeeeee-licious!

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #127 + a Tablescape

2011-08-17T17:51:00.001-05:00

Last week my thrifty Thursday project was this room redo for our children:

This past weekend I went on a roadtrip to north Alabama. Our destination was the Crow Mountain Orchard, which I shared about earlier this week. Along the way, we stopped at Hammer's Stores in small towns. I like to refer to it as the "Hammer's World Tour". We do this tour from time to time. Its much fun. Hammers is a small country town general store, it first opened in 1942. In the beginning, Hammer's sold primarily salvage and bankruptcy items. As times changed, the Hammers' salvage business changed and they began selling off-price goods including name brand irregular items, closeouts and special buys. From designer duds to candles, jams and jellies, work boots and sewing notions...it has a little bot of everything. What is doesnt have, big city prices!

Case in point, my Thrifty Thursday item this week:

I found this 5x7 foot zebra stripe rug for....get this......$5.68 !!!!

It is a "second item". My rug had a "bad area" running through one end of it, a strip of binding glue.

For $5.68, I laid the rug at an angle, that small thred hidden under the futon.
And wahla!

$5.68! LOVE!

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Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

My tablescape this week includes those neutral colors I love. Food is the allowed the focus.
Yum!

And speaking of food.....

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, for Foodie Friday! This week I am featuring Leighta Fudd's Apple Cake-fresh from the orchard: Crown Mountain Orchard.

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Orchard Gonna Say Apple?

2011-08-15T15:33:00.001-05:00

Crow Mountain Orchard in Fackler, Alabama has built a reputation for selling some of the finest fruit in the Southeast. 25000 apple trees including 25 2,500 peach and nectarine trees including the popular freestone varieties, Indian Cling, and white peach, 2 acres of seedless grapes in six varieties. There are 7 varieties each of pears and plums that start ripening in mid-July and my favorite thing that can be found at the Orchard seasonally... Fresh CIDER.

It was time for a trip. It's apple season, ya know?
A roadtrip it was! To the Orchard! The roadtrip is half the fun!
I call shotgun!

It's easy to appreciate the country drive to the orchard.....
Country Roads.

Gorgeous Working Farmland....

As well as vegetable farms....these are soybeans!

These views will someday be a thing of the past. I think its why I appreciate it so....

From the bridge we are on, we can see the railroad bridge over the creek.
Beautiful!

Our bridge is a piece of art in and of itself...

See that mountain over there? That's Crow Mountain!

That fresh mountain air guarantee's some good fruit!

After some twist and turns up the mountain road, we arrive to the Orchard!

Just look around at the gorgeous fresh fruits! Its a place to take it all in....

Beautiful, right?

Well, lets not forget why we came.....

Nature's Bounty!

I can't wait to get it home! Healthy after school snacks and desserts are in my family's future!

Be sure to visit Plates and Places for the recipe for Leighta Fudd's Apple Cake!

Last Year's Trip to the Orchard. Get ready for eye candy!

Crow Mountain Orchard

6236 County Road 39
Fackler, AL 35746-5010
(256) 437-9254

256-437-9254
Open 7 days a week8:00 to 5:00

call for available fruits

2011-08-12T14:37:00.000-05:00

It's the user. I think I messed up the Friday Flashback button. See if this one works. My apologies! Thanks y'all for letting me know.

Take a button.....

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did.

Have a FABULOUS weekend, friends!

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Friday Flashback

2011-08-11T23:34:00.008-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL

But Here are a few featured participants in case you missed it.

Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it!

Soooooo many great contributors!

My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

LOVE the twice loved thrifting this week by "A Girls Gotta Nest". Great finds!

I really like to spread the love around, but Artsy Vava did it again this week, with her decorating with paper dolls.

The beauty of thrifting is seeing a diamond in the rough. Of seeing beyond the what once was to what could be. My Covered Bridge did a wonderful job in her table restoration!

I have been wanting one of those antique light up eye charts. Because I cannot find one that is thrifty, this one from Gardners to Bergers will suffice.

I have shared my love for whatnots turned lamps.

Here :Wathen LOVE, Banister lamp

Here: Basket Lamp

Here: Upcycled World Globe Lamp

And here is another from yesterday's thrifty Thursday by PRIMP:

*LOVE*

And finally, tis the season!

I cannot wait to create this houndstooth monogram for my front door, just like the one by Jilly &amp;amp; Mia RTR!!!!:

To those of you who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

&amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.lbratina.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" title="Visit the site"&amp;amp;gt;
&amp;amp;amp;lt;img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zrnAHJruoj0/TfGRl1dxiOI/AAAAAAAAUBg/wCfkpG7Y7Co/s1600/thriftthursdaya.jpg" alt="Tales from Bloggeritaville" /&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did. Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

I invite you to come and visit me at my Foodie blog, Plates and Places.
Today I am featuring MY MOMMA's HOMEMADE BUTTERMILK BISCUIT's!!!
That's right! Butter my biscuit, cause its alllllll good! Why, it's a southern staple segment!

Have a FABULOUS weekend, friends!
LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #126, Plus a Tablescape

2011-08-10T20:38:00.006-05:00

Last April, my college aged son was displaced for a short time by the tornado that came through Tuscaloosa, Alabama. I wrote about that day HERE. Fortunately he was safe and his apartment was spared, despite the close proximity in which the tornado came to his place. It was by the grace of God, and nothing less. However, there was no power and roads around his placed closed. School ended up closing early, sending students home. When my son came home, he discovered that his bedroom and his den had a major leak in it, leaving the ceiling and walls wet, falling and molded.

Our insurance company deemed his room unliveable. Dangerous because of the mold.

"Bama" couldn't come home either. It was tough. He ended up moving in with my parents, his grandparents. But after a year away at school , he wanted to be with his family as much as we wanted him home. Eventually the room was repaired and he actually came home for a couple months, before returning to school last weekend.

Because he is home less often, my husband proposed we make Bama's den into a children's playroom. (Bama still has a bedroom to come home to)

Needless to say the idea went over "swimmingly" by our two younger children.

And when I found out that Big Daddy intended to move all electronic games downstairs, well I jumped on board too. I could actually watch a tv show, and not have to compete with children who wanted their Wii.

We needed to do it on a budget.

We needed to be thrifty.

Big Daddy wanted himself and the children to design the room. I'm not going to lie. I had the issues with it.

No, control. No say.

It was tough, but I caved.

And this is how it came out:

They decided on a futon, so children could have sleep overs.
When they mentioned the futon, I did get involved though.
(I have control issues)
We chose a white leather futon, one that didn't "look" like a futon.
It was modern, with no arms. And I liked the steel legs, lending to the modern feel.
They decided on a black, white and chartreuse green color scheme.
They insisted on beanbags for gaming chairs.

They DID ask me to help with the artwork.

I pondered and pondered about "FUN" and "FAMILY"
And then it came to me.....

Our Dogs:

(Left to right, top to bottom) Charlotte, Jeffery, Miley, Lucy and Jane.
I used a "Andy Warhol" approach and used wild colors for the ink.

I did this by uploading my dogs photos to the website, PICNIK
Click create, then effects. I chose the "Heat Map 2.0" and played with that, until I got the effects I wanted. I chose a three different effects.
Click SAVE &amp; Share and save them onto a folder onto your computer, this is where I later uploaded them onto a photo processing site.
I used Walgreens for printing services. And printed them in a 12x16 size.

We love them.
Almost as much as we love our dogs!

The Total Cost:

Our Dogs Photo Poster: (5) total $ 65.00
Frames from Walmart online: $ 20.00 (it came with 6 frames)
Walmart Futon: $147.
Walmart &amp;amp;amp; Target Blankets, pillows:$ 60.00
Beanbags (2) Walmart $200.
Lava Lamp Target $30, and we inherited an authentic one
Floor Lamp Walmart: $20.00
Chartreuse rug: $10

Big Daddy and the children did well.

And thrifty.

**************************

Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

An individual place setting this week. This is the last full week of summer as my children know it and we have stayed on the go.....no elaborate place settings, just family time, mostly consisting of paper plates and grilled burgers. But...life is good!

(click pic to enlarge)

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES &amp;amp;amp;amp; PLACES, tomorrow for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers for Gluttons

2011-08-08T23:13:00.001-05:00

Did you happen to see these wonderful, colorful, delicious peppers that I featured on my Foodie Friday post?

I am addicted.
There's no denying it. It's bad.
Real bad.
I wonder if there is a 12 step program?
I'd advise you not to make them they are so good.
But if you are just a glutton like me, well.....here's the recipe.
Don't say I didn't warn you.

Are You a HDPI????????

2011-08-07T23:05:00.000-05:00

Are you a HDPI?

You know, a home decor private investigator??

My husband might call it nosey, but I just love to go and check out open houses, furniture stores, home decor stores, and my friends homes for design inspiration.

Here are a few pictures I snapped on some recent home decor store visits:

(Pottery Barn)

(Pottery Barn)

I love the red pillows on the white sofa's.
And I love the white coral!
And check out that table! Looks familiar!

(Pottery Barn)

(Pottery Barn)

Pretty neutrals....

(At Home, Homewood, Al)

These doors below are beautiful. Whether you reuse them, or upcycle them creating them into tables, headboards, privacy screens, or just architectural character to add into a corner of a home....

(Southern Salvage Architectural Antiques)

I LOVE to get lost, just looking and getting inspired!

Where do you like to go to get inspired by home design/decor?

Live*Love*Laugh,
Leigh
Tales from Bloggeritaville
www.lbratina.blogspot.com

Friday Flashback

2011-08-05T08:44:00.004-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL

But Here are a few featured participants in case you missed it.

Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it!

Soooooo many great contributors!

My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

My son is leaving for college today. He will be a junior at University of Alabama. I thought that this notebook paper canvas from Artsy Vava was very appropriate for this time of year

I've shared my love for beds turned benches. I love this one by CAN'T STOP MAKING THINGS....

Seems Stone and Rose and I were on the same wave length this week with mirrors! Check out her gorgeous sunburst mirror:

Calypso in the Country had a wonderful craft project for monogrammed slipcovers! She used this one on her son's bed. Sharp and classy! (And nice photos too!!!)

I love a potting bench. And not just for potting. They can be incorporated into bathrooms, mudrooms, even as a buffet. Bless My Nest created this beauty:

To those of you who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did. Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

And speaking of appreciation & inspiration, I want to thank my friend Beth of Unskinny Boppy for helping me with the button code. I LOVE having smart friends! Thanks Beth! I couldn't have done it without you.

I invite you to come and visit me at my Foodie blog, Plates and Places.

There I am featuring these Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers that I have a embarrassing addiction to.
I just can't stop eating them!!!

Have a FABULOUS weekend, friends!

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #125, Plus a Tablescape!

2011-08-03T19:21:00.004-05:00

Some Thrifty Thursday's ago (#112) I shared a clock and mirror that were both thrifty items...

A closer view of the mirror:

It's a mirror I have actually had for years. I found it close to 10 years ago at Kirkland's in the "Green Corner". If you look closely, you might notice the frame was a little warped, kinda like me, so it came home and was admired for many years for it's odd and warped frame. The design was rabbits. They were dimensional, 2-D. I mention this for a reason, which I explain in a moment.

I am a fortunate person. I am able to get to the beach pretty often. On many occasions when I visit, I love to comb the beach for driftwood. Its so therapeutic and relaxing. It empties my mind in a positive way. I stroll, collecting as I go, putting driftwood in my big beach bag.

I like to then take my driftwood finds and haul them all home, knowing I will do "SOMETHING" with them.

Much to my husband's dislike. It's an ongoing disagreement, "Why do we have to bring a bunch of sticks home? We have sticks in our yard!!! And it takes up trunk space."

Ah, the precious trunk space.
He should worry about that space.
Because I am determined to bring home my sticks.
His body can also fit into that trunk.
But I digress...

The sticks come home. Momma is happy.

I came home and looked around my home. You might not be surprised to find much of my home decor reflects my love and nature, most notably the beach.
And I have not a single bunny, but for the mirror. Then my mind begins to map out how well the sticks will adhere to that round 2-D bunny mirror. Because it is dimensional, it allows for more contact of oddly shaped sticks to adhere.
I divide the sticks by size and I place them, like a puzzle around the mirror.
Good enough. Still oddly pieced together (like myself). It worked.
I take out my trusty glue gun and begin to work. Picking up each stick, laying down glue and putting it back just so....

And in less than half an hour, I have it! My driftwood mirror!

I think it has so much more character than the bunnies.
Here is a couple close-up looks for details:

It's imperfection is perfection to me.

It cost me about $7 for the clearance mirror.

And for what it's worth, Big Daddy said, "I cannot beleive you made that mirror! It's really cool. It looks like something you'd buy in a store!"

Ya think?

I think I'll keep him.

And outta the trunk for that matter.:)

I love Big Daddy to much to put him into my trunk....well...most of the time ;)

For more of my driftwood craft projects: Click here & Here

Driftwood Inspiration: Click Here & Here

How I incorporate it into my home: Here

And other Home Decor: Here

**************************
Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

An individual place setting this week. This is the last full week of summer as my children know it and we have stayed on the go.....no elaborate place settings, just family time, mostly consisting of paper plates and grilled burgers. But...life is good!

(click pic to enlarge)

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, tomorrow for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Friday Flashback

2011-07-28T23:12:00.008-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL
But Here are a few featured participants in case you missed it.
Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it!
Soooooo many great contributors!
My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

I LOVE antiqued mirrors. Salvage Savvy has a gorgeous mirror that she "antiqued" and gave lots of character. She explains the process....

Junkin Junky had crates of inspiration. I had problems adding her pic to my page, but you can go and look for yourself....And don't think for a minute she found them at a thrifty price.....she MADE them! And she explains how!!!

And then there is Crafty Butt, showing her creative best side again with this table she whipped up in an hours time.....

Secret Pie Shoppe has my heart this week with this clever airmail curtain. Ingenious!

WAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY COOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just love that one!

And finally...

I really want to brag over the bedroom at Conspicuous Style......

But all I can do is drool.
EYE CANDY alert!
Really....no words, just lust.
In the words of AC/DC, "To Those about to Rock, We Salute You!"
You rocked it!

To those of you who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did. Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

I truly appreciate you being so kind to explain the code and send it to me.

If you haven't visited Beth's blog, I suggest that you do. Beth is a wealth of inspiration and injects her inspiration with humor and love. LOVE Beth! (You MUST see what she did to her dining room cabinet: "Tramp Stamping")

I invite you to come and visit me at my Foodie blog, Plates and Places. Today I am sharing a recipe for Pastitsio!

Have a FABULOUS weekend, friends!

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)
(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh

Thrifty Thursday #124, Plus a Tablescape

2011-07-27T21:09:00.001-05:00

My internet was down all day today....my husband just fixed it. Thank goodness we are getting a new service provider tomorrow. We have more issues....anyway, my apologies for posting so late. For this reason I am having to post a rerun/flashback. This post origianlly posted as #31 Thrifty Thursday. I have alot of Thrifty Thursday post in the works, lots I want to share for future post, so bring it fresh next week!

I made a trip to the thrift store on Monday night. I have found that in my area, for me the best time to go is early in the morning (when it opens at 8AM) or late at night (I go around 7 or 8, it closes at 9:30 PM). And the best time to visit is mid week, when things are not picked over from the weekend. Weekends are brutal at and on the thrift. My mom would say "You can't stir them with a stick"...and so you will not find Leigh there. I do not like big crowds.

...Anyway, back to my thrifty find. I was shopping around and came across this cute sea biscuit bowl with lid.

I just thought is was so pretty.

It is made my Franciscan, a company which I am unfamiliar with.

Maybe I can use it in a future tablescape. And for 99 cents, a bargain!

Another little something I found that I can use in a tablescape are these three little bowls.

Made by Gibson, they were 79 cents each. I love how the sides are "wavy" and dotted.

I only wish that I had found them before I had made my tablescape photo for this week.
(White Tablescape).

**************************
Tablescape Thursday
Now, onto to Tablescape Thursday, which is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch.

For the Tablescape Thursday today, I am using my actual Let There be White (Host, Kathleen.) for my Tablescape Thursday that is hosted by Susan of Between Naps on the Porch..
"Do you follow me?" (wink to my "girls") I decided to do a double post on this one.
To see my white tablescape, please click here.
I did, however promise to share the tablescape from the birthday get together. It was a poolside, Soiree (don't you love to say, soiree...sounds so dignified and cultured. Not that the Clematis club is all that. I woul define as f-u-n)) and the buffet table and cake reflected the poolside fun.

I wish I had taken the photo when all of the food was sitting out. We had quite a feast!

Thanks ladies for the pool festivities. Love y'all!

What is a tablescape without the food? I invite you to stop by my food blog, PLATES & PLACES, tomorrow for Foodie Friday!

Thanks to all of you for stopping by and participating in today's Thrifty Thursday. Please use Mr. Linky below to link up your blog.

I encourage you all to spread the love and visit the other thrifty Thursday participants, for that's what half the fun is. Aside from seeing a cool treasure it's making friends!
You can always visit me on FACEBOOK,

I love me some friends: be they new friends or old friends!
XOXO
LIVE*LOVE*LAUGH
LEIGH

Thrifty Participants:

Friday Flashback

2011-07-21T20:04:00.003-05:00

What a FUN Thrifty Thursday party we had yesterday! SUCH wonderful eye candy....I really could've posted every single link again. LOL But Here are a few featured participants in case you missed it. Which incidentally, if you missed it...you REALLY MISSED it! Soooooo many great contributors! My thanks to everyone! I hope you will visit yesterday's Thrifty Thursday post for a complete list of contributors.

Pittypat Paperie shared a beautiful and modern way to use doilies.

Although hers are made with the paper variety, I have so many of these treasured lacy fabric pieces and am anxious to try this one out myself!

More inspiration from Garden Berger this week in the form of signs....I just have a thing for words! And stamps....and numbers....well, you get the idea!

I also have a thing for birds nest. You will find them all over my home. I found this handmade birdhouse, by DIY Home Project, so realistic and beautiful!

Dear Junque Magnet, Great minds think alike! I am in the middle of this project myself. I will share my version in a future Thrifty Thursday post. I love yours! Great job!

Thanks to EVERYONE that linked up to Thrifty Thursday! It's not a party without you! YOU all inspire me!

And to those who have been featured on Tales from Bloggeritaville's Thrifty Thursday/Flashback Friday, I hope you will take a button as a token of my appreciation.

Of course, I haven't figured out the button code (anyone? anyone?) but you can copy, save and upload and link back to http://www.lbratina.blogspot.com/

...in fact I would be downright flattered if you did.

Before you go, I invite you to visit my Foodie Blog, Plates and Places. On Monday I shared a post about my visit to the country to Granny's house. She was kind enough to share some of those good recipes.

Today I am bringing you one of my favorites (HERE) at Plates and Places!

Check it out!

And if you missed the post that will leave your mouth watering, go here.

Have a FABULOUS weekend, friends!

LIVE (fully)*LOVE (much)*LAUGH (allot)

(do this all this weekend....it does the soul a wealth of good!)

Leigh