Strawberries n Apronstrings

Wanda

2011-11-14T16:53:00.000-08:00

The mark of a woman after God's own heart is found in how she loves others. How she serves, shelters, comforts, and gives selflessly. This defines a woman I know. A woman I have grown to love and care for over the years. A best friend to my dear Mother. A best friend to me and my family.
She has cried and prayed with my family, and for my family. She has shared the happiest of times with us, as well as the most devastating. No words could ever express what she means to us. Special friendship, loving relationship, the best of friends. No, these words don't suffice. She is so much more.
She has an amazing loyalty to those she loves. Sometimes she may seem a little rough around the edges to some, but she has a heart of gold. Sometimes she may seem to be a bit harsh, but it's only because she loves so deeply. She has a humble heart and loves the Lord, she is a woman after God's own heart. I love you Wanda. God bless and keep you always.
~~Mikki

GRANDMA'S OLD MIRROR

2011-03-01T13:23:00.000-08:00

1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we are looking in a mirror that gives only a dim (blurred) reflection [of reality as in a riddle or enigma], but then [when perfection comes] we shall see in reality and face to face! Now I know in part (imperfectly), but then I shall know and understand fully and clearly, even in the same manner as I have been fully and clearly known and understood [by God]. (AMP)

GRANDMA'S OLD MIRROR

There used to be an old mirror with beveled edges and white intricate embossing across the bottom, it hung behind my Grandma’s bedroom door.

When I was about four years old, Grandma would hold me up and I would peer into the mirror. There was always the cutest little brown eyed girl with golden hair smiling back at me. She was always giggling with her eyes wide and bright. I never did know why Grandma kept it behind her bedroom door.

Behind my bedroom door hangs that same mirror. Today when I looked into the old mirror, the little brown-eyed girl was gone. I could almost see my Grandma looking back at me.

I never considered why Grandma had wrinkles, or why she seemed to have such strength behind her tired eyes. Or why, why, why? I could go on and on. I saw the same wrinkles today as that woman in the mirror looked back at me, I saw her tired eyes. Now I know the answer to those wrinkles and tired eyes. Some are not actually wrinkles, but lines caused by the laughter and joy my children and grandchildren have given me. The late nights of worry and crying out to God on my knees for the souls of my children and loved ones, and the sadness of losing Grandparents, parents, uncles and aunts are forever etched upon the soul and deep within my heart. These tired eyes give witness to this.

As I grew older I did consider maybe Grandma kept the old mirror behind her door out of vanity. A woman can sure get upset over aging and all that comes with it. But today, as I peered deeply into that mirror, I think like myself, Grandma missed that little girl that used to look back at her. I miss her too, I still see a glimpse of her sometimes though. And it makes me smile. I see her when I look into my granddaughter’s eyes. That must be why Grandma wanted me to see the little girl in the mirror, so I would know how to find her when I thought she was gone.

So Grandma kept the old mirror behind the door, not because of vanity, and not because she didn’t want to be reminded that that little girl was no longer looking back at her. But she kept it behind the door to remind herself that when you look in the mirror and you see beauty fading and days have become years, don’t fret. The same beauty and love is passed down from generation to generation, and that little girl is always looking back at me.

Copyright ©2011 Mikki Jo Howard

HAND IN HAND

2010-11-22T16:32:00.000-08:00

Know that I'm still here
We've left a legacy
And know that I'm smiling
When in them, you see me

Memories are very dear
But they're not all you have
You'll hear me softly
In our grandbabies laugh

Don't miss me so
I'll be right here
When you speak to God
Know that I am near

The "us" that you miss
Is with you still today
Just look into our childrens eyes
And you'll look "us" in the face

Look to our future
Our grandbabies as they grow
There we are again
Why we'll never grow old

For another generation
Will come and then go
But we will always be
Within their very soul

And when this old world
Comes to an end
We will all be together
Walking hand in hand

For Daddy November 22, 2010

My Mom

2010-11-22T16:21:00.000-08:00

I don't know what a definition is for a regular Mom, but I know what my Mommy was and still is.

She was loving, brutally honest, and funny. She was real. She loved to give. She loved her family with passion. She loved her friends. She was loyal and faithful. She loved the Lord and if she didn't think you knew Him, you would after she told you all about Him. She was a child at Christmas time. She was creative. She was beautiful inside and out. She had the most beautiful brown eyes I've ever seen. She was my best friend. She loved my Daddy more than life, and you could see it when she looked at him. Today as the exact time approached that she left this earth, I stood out on my porch and looked toward the east. I just waited. The most pleasant breeze stirred the fall leaves and I smiled as I felt it against my cheek. I love you Mommy.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2010-10-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday dear Mandi. I love you so much and I am so proud of you. I smile when I see your creativity, I can see your Grandma in so many things you do and say. I know she is proud of you too baby. I love you.

WHAT IF.....

2010-10-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

After looking at this picture of my Great Grandfather Joshua Mullins and my Great Great Grandparents Daniel Duff and Susan Mullins, I began to daydream of their lives. For you see, the further I can see back in time, the more I realize it's a miracle for me to be on this earth. What if.... Abraham DeMoulin and his wife had been discovered as they left France to come to Jamestown Virginia aboard the Ship Mary and Ann to escape religious persecution. What if..... William Grancer (Mullen) had not met his beautiful wife and had their sweet daughter Mary Agnes (Mullins). What if Edward Polly (Mary Agnes' husband) had been killed during the Revolutionary War. What if..... Randolph Polly had not escaped after being held prisoner during the Civil War. What if Daniel Duff Mullins the Rebel had killed a man that he had great love and respect for, Valentine, his Yankee enemy, his beloved father-in-law. Each one of these is a grandparent of mine, no matter how many generations ago. If their lives had not been spared, or they had loved a different woman, or chose a different road..... I wouldn't be here today. I am thankful for those that went before me, and I love them each and every one. I am who I am because of these people. Isn't it an amazing thing to look back thru time and see how paths crossed, how God protected, how faith survived. I don't see these people as dry bones, and long forgotten. I see them living and breathing, within my own soul and spirit. I hear their wisdom with my heart. I feel their love as I stand over the hallowed ground where they rest. I am proud of my Eastern Kentucky heritage. The faithful beloved mountains sheltered my family many many years, and gave forth an abundance of food and fare that kept and sustained them during the hard times. These same mountains cradle my loved ones, until the trumpet shall sound. What a glorious day that will be indeed.

MASTERPIECE

2010-10-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

God amazes me with His marvelous creation. The sun just rising over the ocean.
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GOD COULD HAVE

2010-05-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

God could have painted all of it
in simple black and white
Or gave us only color
of a golden sunlight

He could have made flowers with
no bloom or no scent
But He wanted us to know
they were heaven sent

He could have left the trees in the
state of winter
But instead he gave them leaves
to shade us from the weather

He could have made the sky
as dark as miner's coal
But instead he made it blue
with hues of kings gold

If you only look around and
consider it all
How can your heart say
there really is no God

©2010 Mikki Jo Howard

In Honor Of My Dear Mother

2010-05-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

MOM

How wonderful it is to be reminded of special moments with you, Mom. The beauty of a sunrise reminds me of your love for God's beauty. A sunset reminds me of your beauty. An intricate woven dishcloth makes me think of your amazing talents of weaving and knitting and other primitive crafting. As simple and diverse come together to make a beautiful masterpiece, so was you my Mother, simple, yet intricately diverse, in your character, your love for family, your faith and your strength.
You had the gentleness of a newborn babe, and the courage of a highly decorated warrior. You were tender, but stern. You were tolerant and open-minded, but very opinionated. You were dedicated. You could be meek and mild mannered, but turn into a roaring lion when it came to your children.
When I hear a hymn I wish it was you singing. When I see a rainbow I wish you were standing next to me. When I pray I ask God to kiss you for me and tell you I love you. When I dream, I hope it is of you. When my grandbabies say something cute, I hope you hear. When I learn a new crochet stitch or knit a new pair of socks I want to say, "Look Mom!" I hope you see.
When spring boasts its new life and color, I hear your laughter. When fall blankets us with warm hues I see your eyes. When winter brings blowing snows, I feel your warmth. When the gentle summer evening brings a welcome breeze, I feel your breath upon my cheek.
The day you left I felt as if the world should cease to exist. I was shocked to see that birds still sang, flowers continued to bloom, and the sun still rose and set. But now I see beautiful reminders of you in each one, and I'm thankful for that.
I honor your memory today Mom, not because it's a special day, but because it's another day without you.
© 2010 Mikki Jo Howard

WHAT KIND OF MAN

2010-05-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

WHAT KIND OF MAN

He missed his baby's birth
and the chance to hold her close
He missed her first words
but this is what he chose

He was nowhere near
when his son graduated
But a simple letter home
and the son was elated

An old woman grows more frail
as she offers one more prayer
She dies all alone
Her grand son isn't there

A young Mother struggles
with car and home repairs
Left all alone
with a burden she can't share

Still yet a husband sits
with his wife as they grieve
There son wasn't there
to fill the empty seat

What kind of man
could be so cruel
To abandon a loved one
why he must be a fool

What kind of man you ask
could live such a life
Our American Soldier is who
your freedom takes sacrifice

© 2010 Mikki Jo Howard

2010-05-06T08:14:00.000-07:00

LOVE SONG

Holding close to my heart
the warmth of by gone days
Only letting go awhile
to glimpse Heaven's Gates.

Taking in the fragrant breeze
that dances with the oak
Sun upon my face so warm
I wander down the road.

Home is where my heart is
I long no more to roam
Only life's breath holds me
'Til God shall call me home.

Time is not my friend
for it holds me prisoner
Stealing precious moments
that could be spent with her.

Songbirds sing to me
a love song sweet
Telling me to rise
"Rise, to your feet!".

"Eternity awaits you friend"
the melody sang loud
"Come home my son,
she's waiting for you now."
©2010 Mikki Jo Howard

IN THE LORD'S BOSOM

2010-05-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

IN THE LORD'S BOSOM

The road was winding and winding, my heart was beating faster. I was about to drive down the narrow road that my
Daddy used to walk down when he was a child living at the end of the holler, up a little creek, in the shelter of an Eastern Kentucky mountain.
My eyes couldn't take it all in fast enough. My throat had a knot in it the size of a baseball I believe. I felt the tears stinging my eyes as I blinked them away, because I didn't want to miss a single thing. It's still fresh in my mind, the beauty and the feeling that I had finally come full circle. I was back where I belonged. Where my heart had craved to be since I was a child. But I never understood it, til my feet stood in the fresh green thick clover on the bank of Frozen Creek in Knott County Kentucky. My heart was content. If ever I felt a need, a craving, something left undone or unsaid. Those emotions were all satisfied in that moment. I was home. I knew that this is where I was supposed to be. God had indeed marked this date on the calendar for me to be standing exactly where my feet were planted. As I stood and looked at those mountains around me, I felt a security that I'd never experienced before. I explained this to my Daddy and he said, "Yes honey, I know how you felt. Like you were cradled in the Lord's bosom." And yes, that's exactly how I felt.

Having never been here before it's funny how I felt like I had left something here, and I had this day came back to reclaim it. That feeling came from the deep bond I have with my Daddy, and my family roots that are still deep in the heart of these mountains. I know that who I am, began many years ago, with blood, sweat and tears here in the beloved mountains of Kentucky.
I've heard many stories from my Grandma, Grandpa and my Dad and Mom of their lives here. Precious stories of hard times, but happy times.
Many years ago, my family took the great Ship Mary and Ann from England to the Jamestown River to escape religious persecution. From there, two children were born. One a brave warrior, a man of honor who helped to attain my freedom during the Revolutionary War. The other, a kind and patient woman. They met, fell in love, had their own children, and eventually made their home in beloved Kentucky.
The more I have learned of my family and their past, the more I have learned about myself and who I am. And I am thankful for the sacrifices made. I can never repay the debt that I owe to those that went before me. But I have walked in the shadow of their precious footsteps, down a dusty winding road, that lovingly led me back home. Home truely is where the heart is.

© 2010 Mikki Jo Howard

DADDY'S HANDS

2010-05-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

The path that lay ahead was insulated from strangers, and foreigners. At least for awhile.
The mountains wrapped around me like a security blanket,
I felt as if I was in the Lord's bosom, or my Mama's womb.
I would have objected if I'd known what the meaning of change would bring with it.
Many a loved one buried in these mines forever, for simply trying to
put food on the table. Sincerity was far from the coal company's heart, for
his heart was blacker than the coal that he stole from us.
Greed, selfishness, and the love of money was the root of our misfortune. The greed of the coal company and the love of it's money took a toll on the young man from Knott County Kentucky.
To furnish a young family man with a mining position, brought a crooked grin upon the coal company's
face. Months later, that young man aged far beyond his years, walks with a limp, is missing a
finger, and carries with him a cough that will carry him to his grave.
The crooked grin widens upon the face of the black hearted thief, as he watches the young
man limp down the dirt path heading home.
Greeted by his family, a smile almost erases the pain from the coal miner's tired and worn face.
Little hands reach up, holding the man's face between tiny palms.
The young man pulls the little hands to his lips,
gently kissing them. He made a promise to the black hearted thief, right then and there. "You
shall not dirty these little man's hands with your greed. By the grace of God, he shall not know
the sorrows and pain of a cold dark mine."
The young man kept his promise. Those little hands are today, calloused and worn after years
of their own hard work.
But never did they give up a dollar, to that black hearted thief.

© 2010 Mikki Jo Howard

Grandma's Wisdom

2010-04-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today is the anniversary of my dear Grandma's passing. I miss her very much. She was a very wise lady, very energetic, loving, strong, and prayerful. She taught me many things growing up, and some lessons may not have been welcomed, but needed. She always had me a surprise when I would visit. She'd motion for me to come to her side and whisper in my ear, "Go look under Grandma's bed, I've got ya a play-purty under there." I would take off running and there was alway the grandest treasure. She loved to cook for her family, she enjoyed watching us eat. I always loved to sit on the porch swing with her, and we'd sing old hymns. She always told me I could sing good. She is the only person I have let listen to me sing. She was not only my Grandma, she was a very good friend. We shared a lot together. I loved listening to her tell stories of her childhood, even though some of them were painful for me to hear. She had a very hard life as a child, but you'd never known it. She didn't complain, and she was thankful for her life. I loved to watch her wash the clothes in the old wash house, she'd scrub on that scrub board like nobody's business and just sing away the whole time. I'd sit on the back stoop and just soak in the sun, and relish the beautiful voice of Grandma and the rythmic noise from the scrubboard as she washed the clothes. What a way to spend the day. Age is quickly sneaking up on me, and I pray I leave an imprint on my Grand children's hearts, the way my Grandma did on mine. My Grandma's wisdom and love is etched upon my heart, forever changed my life. And I pray I pass it to the next generation with as much elegance as Grandma used. I love you and miss you Grandma.

Rainy Day

2010-04-26T15:59:00.001-07:00

We've had so much rain the past few days it's hard to get outside and do much of anything. I'll be glad for the weather to clear. Looking forward to warmer weather, fishing, camping and spending time at the cabin and with family. Love sitting around the fire and talking and just spending time with each other. With my sons baseball schedule it stays pretty hectic around here right now, but we love it. I know all to well how soon the chaos is over and the house is too quiet. So we enjoy every minute of having our last child home with us. God bless each child and grandchild, and may the Lord continue to bless our beautiful family.

Lucky Guy

2010-04-24T22:06:00.001-07:00

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My Quiet Day

2010-04-24T22:04:00.001-07:00

Loved spending the day with my sweetheart riding around in the country and taking in the sites. The turtle I saved from being ran over by an Amish Buggy going 20 mph Whewwww. The pretty wildflowers caught my eye and made me smile. I love the grand old abandoned house and wondered of the loving family it once sheltered. The old International Tractor has seen better days but I loved it! So neat! The horses are gorgeous as they lazily graze in their luscious pasture. And the covered bridge just welcomes you to come see more! Thank you Lord for the beautiful day.
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2010-04-24T21:57:00.000-07:00

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2010-04-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

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2010-04-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

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2010-04-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

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2010-04-24T21:52:00.001-07:00

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Lazy Day

2010-04-24T21:50:00.001-07:00

Some guy soaking in the day before the rain and winds came. Hope he caught some big fish!
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A Mother And Babies

2010-04-24T21:38:00.001-07:00

See the little Momma watching over her young. I have worried about her all night after the bad storm we had
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Petunias

2010-04-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

Today I spent the afternoon with my sister Jenni. We had a great lunch from TOP NOSH, a wonderful little sandwich shop. Then I went to my daughter's and helped her set out her petunia's. They look so good. It was a rainy morning but as the day went on it was beautiful. I'm so thankful for my family. My precious Momma always had Petunia's, they remind me of her so much. I miss you Mom, and I know your heavenly garden must be amazing.

A Day At The Cabin

2010-04-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

A day at the cabin is so nice. Having a campfire and cooking over an open fire, this was a wonderful day. Special memories made that gently encourage me and make me smile during the hard times. This evening I think I'll spend some quiet time at the cabin. Maybe have some old fashioned singing and some good company. Life can be so sweet.

Spring Is Everywhere

2010-04-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

My favorite. Redbud trees in bloom. I wish they bloomed all summer!
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Wild Violets

2010-04-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

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Bridals Wreath

2010-04-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

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Bluebells

2010-04-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

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Spring Is Everywhere

2010-04-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

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Simple Things

2010-04-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

It's the simple things in life that gives me such great pleasure. My hearts treasures, my favorite things. Childhood memories, forever etched in my heart, have helped to shape who I am. I spent a lot of time at this old well, drinking from a chipped white porcelain pail, trimmed with bright red, and a matching dipper. They sit in my kitchen today, and sometimes at my cabin. The old nest box my grandpa placed on the fence post have sheltered many a little bluebird family. Watching the sun set from the front porch of my grandparents home, now my parents home, is a perfect way to end the day. Napping on a bed of leftover fall leaves as the soft rays shine thru the tree tops, covering me with a warm sunshine blanket. Isn't life full of small miracles. Life's simplest things, a moment.... An instant.... can leave heartshaped footprints in our life. I am thankful for simple things and the treasures of my heart I love to share with you.

High School Baseball

2010-04-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

I love watching my son pitch and play shortstop. This is a very bad picture coz I took it with my cell. Here he is pitching against South Central.
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Spring's Melody (repost)

2010-04-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

This is a repost of a poem I wrote a couple years ago. Many times you will find blips here and there, I've never claimed to be an editor, lol. But I am a writer.

Spring's Melody

Springtime is only a glimpse

of the glory of God

The sunshine silently shouts

"AWAKE"-- his rays applaud

The redbud trees blush

as painted leaves burst forth

The flaxen lilies proclaim

that life is now reborn

Children's joy is heard

as a choir from above

A mother's heart assured

like the nesting dove

A gentle rain drifts in

on clouds of somber hue

The sun whispers goodnight

as his day is through

The great Oak stills himself

as his leaves breathe a sigh

The nightingale lulls me to sleep

with a babys lullaby

Springtime "Spring's Melody" Repost

2010-04-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

Reposting this poem I wrote....

Springs Melody

Springtime is only a glimpse

of the glory of God

The sunshine silently shouts,

"AWAKE"--- his rays applaud

The redbud trees blush

as painted leaves burst forth

The flaxen lilies proclaim

that life is now reborn

Children's joy is heard

as a choir from above

A mother's heart assured

like the nesting dove

A gentle rain drifts in

on clouds of somber hue

The sun whispers goodnight

as his day is thru

The great Oak stills himself

his new leaves breathe a sigh

The nightingale lulls me to sleep

with a baby's lullaby

Rebirth and Renewal

2010-04-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

This is what is so beautiful about Springtime! I think it's such a marvelous miracle. Out from under those dead leaves pops up these beautiful little wildflowers. Spring is like a soul being born again. Dead and lost until the spirit of Christ brings life. It's like a christian who has lost their way, He brings renewal. Resurrection for our soul that was dead. Isn't it something that God chose Springtime to raise His son from the dead? No coincidence in this. He gently reminds us with the renewal of life in Springtime that there is indeed life after death. Life everlasting. Thank you Lord.
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My Little Chicken Farmer

2010-03-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

Me and my grandson Owen went to buy him some chicks today. He's really excited and can't wait til they start laying eggs. We had such fun picking them out.
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Coin purse

2010-03-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

Another photo but I love the little sheep canister.
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Sweet Coin Purse

2010-03-26T17:33:00.000-07:00

Love this crochet and felted coin purse. Need to practice my embroidery, its been years since I really done any. So the teeny flowers aren't perfect.
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LAYLA

2010-03-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

I love my Layla, don't ya think she looks extra smart today?
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IMG00780.jpg

2010-03-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

Here is my favorite one. I just love the felting.
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KNITTING

2010-03-26T15:44:00.001-07:00

I have been busy knitting and felting some really cute purses. Right now I'm working on a shawl, some pedi-socks, yet another shawl and a scribble lace scarf. I can never work on only ONE thing. Oh and add to the list mittlets, these are so fun to make! Will have to add pictures!
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Springtime

2010-03-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

Ohhhhh Spring is almost here, the wild roses will be filling the air with intoxication soon. The dandelions will be smiling and ready to be picked for dandelion jelly. I am excited and so ready for some Springtime. Isn't it a wonderful time of year in Southern Indiana? Renewal, that's what springtime is for.

GOD IS IN CONTROL

2010-02-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

I will say snow is very beautiful. God designs each flake with precision and thought, He doesn't just scoop it up from His freezer and throw it down by the handfuls thoughtlessly. I believe it's a deliberate thought and action, planned out. Not that He has to plan, or not that it is any effort for Him whatsoever. The thought and planning of it is His perfection of His art. Another snow storm on it's way here, and God is in control. No, I won't complain. Because my God IS in control, and He is the ultimate weatherman, so no complaints from me. Thank you God for whatever picture you paint, and whatever color you choose to paint it with. I only ask that you help me to see the beauty in the whole picture, and not just the parts I like most. I give You praise, for You are worthy. (Cara Winship took this picture on her way to London KY, God parting the skys) Amazing photo.

FOREVER FRIEND

2010-01-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

A friend is one who is always the same,

and accepts you with every fault.

She's someone who whispers your name in prayer,

no matter your time apart.

She's the one you can tell anything to,

and know your secret is safe.

Not only held in confidence,

but guarded with prayer and grace.

Years can't erase the bond that's held,

these childhood friends together.

Even time can't seperate these two souls,

for their friendship is forever.

Two young girls now Godly women,

it's a union heaven sent.

Two hearts intertwined many years ago,

still today are "forever friends".

---Mikki Jo Howard

To Debbie my BFF, you are indeed my "forever friend". I love you girl!!!

PURE IN HEART

2010-01-06T18:20:00.001-08:00

I was looking at my favorite teacup today. It's my special cup I use when I'm having a quiet time, with a nice warm cup of herbal tea. It's very precious to me. The chipped and cracked teacup may look hideous, but to me it's priceless. You see, I have my grandmother's old sugar bowl, and while on a trip to KY. I found this worn teacup, that matched grandma's sugar bowl perfectly, with the same identical pattern. To me, I'd found a treasure, while everyone else passed it on by, because it was chipped, cracked and stained. If company came over and I was to serve them with the best china in the house, they would be served with this cup. I'm sure the person would think they were being treated terribly, being served with such a thing. And I'm sure they would think me to be a rude and ill-mannered person. I think sometimes we are offended by clumsy gestures of courtesy. Sometimes we judge someone by how they look on the outside, knowing full well that God sees the heart and it's intent. How many blessings have we scoffed at, or refused because we have such good "I-sight"? Matthew 5:8 says "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Psalm 24:3-4 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who shall stand in his holy place? 4) He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Who are we to decide if God's blessings appear acceptable? Who are we to decide what package they will come wrapped in? Let's borrow a Psalm, a prayer of cleansing. Psalm 51:9-11 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Lord, teach us to accept thy blessings with a pure heart.

LET IT SNOW

2009-12-20T22:00:00.001-08:00

Watching the snow fall outside, as the redbirds busy themselves. I enjoy watching the redbirds when the snow has blanketed the ground. What a wonderful day.

Brag post

2009-11-13T16:07:00.000-08:00

I was very pleased to have had my story "Grandma's Dirty Knees" published in MaryJanes Farm Magazine. It's a wonderful magazine if you haven't enjoyed it yet I hope you do. I hope this story takes you back to some precious memories from your own childhood, Blessings to you!

GRANDMA'S DIRTY KNEES
Grandma's porcelain skin, graced ever so softly with tiny brown speckles. Her legs are slenderbut strong, her knees coveredwith fresh earth. As she stood she gathered her blue trimmed apron together with one hand,gently, so as not to bruise thered ripe tomatoes. While in the other hand, she carried a white chipped pail of savorystrawberries. With her shoulder shereached up to wipe the sweat from her forehead, catching it just before it ran down into her eyesand at the same time archingher wrist, carefully balancing the pail of berries.I continued to play, pushing my doll carriage up and down the hill. I stopped to watch asGrandpa stood in the shade ofthe old gray barn, brushing a chestnut mare till it shined like a new penny. I busied myself with mybaby-doll in her lavendersatiny dress. My faded tin dishes, trimmed a sage green with delicate pink flowers clinkedtogether as I washed them likegrandma had taught me. And Grandma was busy herself.She washed the small harvest she had just plucked from the vine, still warm in her handsfrom the hot sun. She driedher hands on her apron's skirt tail and placed a tub of water on the cook stove to heat for her dailychores.It was getting on in the day and I felt my tummy rumble. I could hear grandma singing fromthe wash-house as sherhythmically scrubbed back and forth and back and forth on her old scrub board, the corners slickand shiny from so manywashings. She turned grandpa's dingy clothes a bright white.I hurried in the back door, the old gruff screen door screeched it's welcome and then blammedshut. There it was, sittingwhere grandma left it, waiting just for me. A fresh bowl of strawberries and cream, sweetenedwith a spoonful of sugar and aprayer.It was always the biggest treat to rush in the back door to find my bowl of berries sitting onthe table. And mygrandma's little knees, covered with the fresh earth as she knelt to pick those strawberries. Andas she knelt, she prayed.She prayed for each of her children, grandchildren, and my grandpa. She always sought out littleniches of time as if it werea treasure of spun gold, and never put off anything she could do today.As the years flew by and her body became frail with age, she told me she missed being able tokneel down on her knees to prayand holding a handful of fresh warm soil in her hands. I wonder if she knows that I finally see thewisdom in such humble andsimple accounts. Thank you Lord for my Grandma's dirty knees.
©Mikki Jo Howard 2007

BLESSINGS

2009-07-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

After all that my family has been through and all we have lost, I guess we could just lay down and give up and nobody would blame us. But I come from a family with deep roots, roots that reach far above my imagination. But I see them, I hear them, I feel them. They were present even before this country was founded. They were the courage that stood against the enemy in the Revolutionary War with my GGGGGGrandfather Edward Polly, and even another grandfather and some uncles. They were the strength that my Great Grandparents used as they lived through the Great Depression. The wisdom of my Grandparents who knew how to prepare for future generations. And love, the love of my parents. Love and hope they shared with us. A love so great that it brings with it, the courage, the strength, and the wisdom from past generations, that bind together this present generation. I grew up watching the grandest love story ever told. My Dad and Mom is and will always be the greatest and purest influence in my life. The love they shared is still, even in my moms absence, so sweet and gentle, tender and beautiful. I was taught the importance of tradition, commitment, family, honesty, the blessings of simply living and loving. Our house was and still is filled with laughter, tears, memories, and many many stories. When I say "our house", I am referring to our family structure. Their are many of us, but we are a single unit. And I am proud of that fact. You've heard the saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going"??? Well, around here when the going gets tough, we were already going. Standing together, hand in hand, a wall of love and strength, courage and wisdom, and hope with a foundation already set and unmoveable with the roots of generations past, and built upon the rock. That rock is Christ. So, after all we've been through, all we've lost. We stand strong in the promise of Christ, and life everlasting. I'm thankful for such a wonderful family. In the past four years we have lost my grandfather, my uncle James, my uncle Frankie, a dear family friend Virl, my Mom Sally, my uncle Silas, and my aunt Norma. We have so much to look forward to.

Precious Stones

2009-04-22T20:25:00.000-07:00

The tiny stones in these old glass bottles are more precious by far than any rubies, diamonds, or pearls. These old glass bottles contain tiny stones of wisdom, strength, and hope. This is their story. My grandpa would gather the eggs each day from the barn, and he would be to get each one so as not to be wasteful, and it didn't matter what nook or cranny near or far, he'd find the very last egg. He was a strong willed man, and would not admit that at his age he shouldn't be climbing. As he climbed up to the barn loft he lost his footing and fell backwards out of the loft. After awhile, realizing he couldn't make it to the house, he crawled to the fence row. Every car that passed he tried to get their attention by waving. Finally about 2 hours later a car stopped. The man ran up to the house to call an ambulance. After sometime, the paramedics finally got inside the gate to him, grandpa's horse was bucking and pawing at them. In his horse mind, he was protecting my grandpa. It turned out grandpa had a badly broken hip. In his late 70's this was a dangerous break. After surgery and a long recovery, my grandpa was back on his feet. He knew he would have to exercise and take care of himself if he was ever to gain his strength back. Years later, I found shelves overstuffed with big bottles, little bottles, fat ones and skinny ones. Each bottle filled to the top with tiny stones. There was probably up to 70 bottles or more. I asked about these bottles filled with tiny pebbles. My grandpa began to explain to me how everyday he walked the edge of the creek bed, and every step or two he'd bend to pick up two or three tiny stones. He went on to explain how that was his way of exercising, strengthening his hip and the muscles that had grown weak. It may not have seemed like such a great feat, had there not been soooo many bottles filled with so many of these tiny stones. What I seen was wisdom, strength, and hope for the future. Each one of my family members have their own bottle of precious stones. When I look at mine, I see the strong loving hands of my grandpa. The heart of a man that held on to hope. And the simple wisdom, that made all the difference.

Rain Rain Go Away

2009-04-21T10:52:00.001-07:00

I sure wish the rain would go away and some sweet Spring Sunshine would come. It's another dreary lazy day outside! Where are you Spring?

Mom's Coverlet

2009-03-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

My mother has woven threads of love, strength, strong traditions and faithfulness that has knit our family together with ties that can never be broken. She is a strong, confident, and beautiful woman, and my best friend. She is very creative and I am sooooo proud of this coverlet that she crafted on her loom. The pattern is unbelievably gorgeous. I just can't say enough about it, and the picture really doesn't do it justice. Now, if I could just be patient enough to let her teach me.

THE SPINDLE AND THE GREAT WHEEL

2009-03-28T22:19:00.000-07:00

I watched as the little spindle whirled and whirled, the soft cloud like wool spun into an elegant thread. Maybe to later be knit into a pair of warm socks or woolen mittens. The wooden spindle was as thin as a pencil, with a small round wheel on one end and a tiny eye hook on the end of that, a marvelous little contraption. Not a complicated little piece at all. Just kind of plain but effective, simple but skillful, small but very capable.

Next to the spindle set a great wheel. It stood ever so tall over the little spindle. It was grand. Almost princely, noble. I was waiting, very still, to see what this magnificent creation could do. Patiently I watched as the young woman spun the broad wheel with her hand. The wheel began to spin. It spun gracefully, around and around. The young woman held in her hand the same cloud like wool fiber. The same elegant thread began to flow through her fingers. I was amazed! It took every stately inch of the great wheel, to do the work of one small spindle. In this big world, we may sometimes feel as small and inappropriate as the simple wooden spindle. But no matter our stature, God can use us to move mountains. Matthew 21:21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. Luke 17:6 And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.
And just like the well known story of David and Goliath, stature did not matter. 1Samuel 17:33 And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 17:49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. 17:50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. You see, David, small as he was, overcame the giant. With the Lord of hosts by his side, he used a stone to do what others needed a sword and elaborate battle attire to achieve.

Donations Drawing GIVEAWAY

2009-03-25T22:57:00.000-07:00

I am Team Captain of our Relay For Life team "The Handmaiden's". My sister and I joined Relay For Life last year right after Mom passed away. It has been a very hard road and I still miss my mother sooo much. She was diagnosed with lung cancer and 5 weeks later she was gone. She was an amazing woman and my best friend. The photo's above were taken only days apart, and she passed away only a few days after these pictures were taken. My Mom and Dad still have a beautiful relationship, even though she's gone. We speak of her every day, and celebrate her life. We are accepting donations for our Relay For Life event, handmade item's for our Relay event auction, or an item donation of your choosing or monetary donations. After donating we will have a drawing and the winner will win an item or items from our Antique Store at "Ye Olde Homeplace". We greatly appreciate your help. You can reach my personal page by clicking the Relay For Life button on the left of this page or copy and paste this web address http://main.acsevents.org/goto/iloveyoumom and our team page with this web address http://main.acsevents.org/goto/sallymaepolly Please hurry!!! Relay is just around the corner! If you don't know what Relay For Life is you can read more about it on my Relay page. You can give monetary donations thru this link also, or email me for my address for item donations. Make all checks payable to the American Cancer Society. Thanks in advance for your help!!! Blessings to you all!

Spring in the Air

2009-03-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful time of year. We're having a hint of Springtime. I can't wait to see and hear Spring all around. Such a time of renewal it offers us. Pray for us as we begin our fundraising for our Relay For Life event. Our team name is "The Handmaidens". We have a lot of good fundraising ideas we're throwing around. If you have any good ideas feel free to share them with me here! Thanks so much!!!

My Sweet Grandson

2009-01-01T10:04:00.001-08:00

Meet my sweety-pie! He's 4 months old now. He's absolutely beautiful!!! He has such a personality. He's a tiny one but starting to grow now. He loves to talk to us and laughs all the time. What a gift from God our little ones are. My daughter was upset because my Mom had passed away only two weeks before we found out about the baby coming, Mom would have been thrilled. But I believe she knows. Our cousin told my daughter, "Your Mama had to go to heaven to pick out your sweet little bundle." I believe she did see this little gift before we received him. She is with God now, so she sees things thru His eyes and God said "I knew you before you were even formed in the womb." Therefore, Mom knows him too. Isn't that wonderful!

Spinning Wheel

2008-05-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

I love this old antique walking wheel. My mom gave it to me and it's perfect in the cabin. She taught me how to spin last fall, she loved to spin and weave. It's the perfect thing to work with in my cabin. I sooo enjoy it. Right now I'm getting ready to spin some yarn for a pair of socks. Come back soon and hopefully I'll have more pictures.

The Heart of the Cabin

2008-04-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

This old antique woodburning cookstove is the heart of the cabin. We put it in late summer. My dear Mom gave it to me. She had planned to cook breakfast for the guys after the first day of deer season but was too sick. She was so upset she didn't get to do that for them. Her last days she wanted to visit my little cabin so bad. But she did get to go and rearrange the furniture before she got too bad and that's the way it has stayed. I love our little primitive one room cabin, it has been a source of renewal and spiritual revival. A wonderful place to gather my thoughts and pray.

Mama and Me

2008-04-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

Me and my Mama, I was thrilled to see this picture. Daddy found it amongst some old negatives and had it developed. I was so happy to have a picture of Mom and myself when I was sooo young, about a week old. This was in North Carolina while my Daddy was in the Marine Corps.

My sweet Daddy and grandbabies

2008-04-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful picture. Little Calli Jo was showing her Easter dress off to her Great grandpa. He of course thinks it's gorgeous, but not as cute as Calli Jo. I'm sorry I've been gone for awhile, I hope I'm back now but I can't say for sure. Just going to take one day at a time. I've been busy with my donkeys and goats, so that has been good therapy for me. I will be posting some pics soon of my sweet pregnant donkey Pearl. Hope you come back to visit soon and thanks so much for all the prayers. Blessings

Just Checking In

2008-01-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

Mama and Daddy just a couple weeks before she moved to heaven.

Hi everyone. Just thought I'd check in. I haven't meant to take so long to thank you ALL for your prayers and encouraging words. They have meant so much, thank you. She was diagnosed with lung cancer on October 11th and 9 days later we found out it had also spread to her brain. Within 4 and a half weeks she was gone. I am still numb, and I'm not sure I've even really started to grieve yet. I've been keeping a journal and thats helped a lot I think. I have had trouble going to the cabin because me and mom had rearranged everything the day before she got really sick. I went day before yesterday but I couldn't stay long, it was bittersweet. Her tissues lay on the table and her coffee cup sat there also. The rocker was pulled up by the woodburning cookstove where she had left it, and the handle still sticking in the stove cap where she had lifted the lid to stoke the fire that day. It was a wonderful day though. We had found out 9 days before about the lung cancer, and the day after we had been to the cabin, she got sick and thats when we found out about the brain cancer. It just all happened so fast. Bless her heart, she moved the spinning wheel where she wanted it and the table and my great granny's trunk. My little cabin is just the way she thought it should be and that's the way it will stay. My precious daddy and mommy had a wonderful relationship and was so in love. He would still bring her flowers, every week he'd go and buy her a rose. They were like young sweethearts all the time. Watching my daddy's grief has been harder to bare than dealing with my own grief. Thanks again for your prayers.

Me dear Mama

2007-11-27T11:25:00.000-08:00

Mom passed away on Thankgiving morning at 8:23 a.m. I was holding her hand and had just told her I love you Mommy, and she gently and peacefully went home to be with the Lord. A few minutes later the living room where we were all at with her, was filled with the brightest sunshine. Where it had been cloudy and overcast. My dad looked toward the sunshine and said Thank you Lord. I know where mom is and I'm thankful she didn't have any pain or suffering. Within 5 weeks of her lung cancer diagnosis and brain cancer, she is gone. It all happened so fast, but we made some wonderful memories the last 5 weeks. Blessings to you all and thanks so much for your prayers.

MOM

2007-11-13T18:11:00.001-08:00

Another photo of my gorgeous mother.

My Beautiful Mom

2007-11-13T18:04:00.001-08:00

Here is a beautiful picture of my dear mama when she was 6 months pregnant with me. I think she looks so pretty. I have another photo like this posted somewhere on my blog for her for Mothers Day except it was just a different pose. Just wanted to check in and say hey. Please continue to pray and thanks for all your prayers and sweet posts. Blessings, Mikki

I've missed everyone

2007-10-25T17:34:00.000-07:00

I've been gone for awhile. My mother is very sick. About 2 weeks ago she received a lung cancer diagnosis, and Saturday we learned the cancer had spread to her brain. Please be in prayer for her, we need a miracle. Blessings, Mikki Jo

AMISH EGGS

2007-08-26T10:17:00.002-07:00

I took this picture awhile back. I love old signs like these. They just say "Welcome". My amish friend Fannie, that lives at this house just recently made me some dresses and aprons and a prayer kapp. She is also my penpal. She is teaching school this year and has asked me to come visit her school. I'm looking forward to visiting them. She has a six mile trip there and back, about a 40 minute drive, 80 round trip. Thats a long ways to drive one way. There have been men, which she calls "loafers", following the amish women around in their buggies and she's a little concerned but said not too scared, she said, "we have good horses". I guess she plans to outrun one. Hmmmmm. Needless to say I'm concerned for her. I took the kids a big bag of candy yesterday, she has several very young siblings. There are 12 kids altogher but most of them are grown now. This is the family that built our cabin. They are very dear friends. I've been thinking on what I will make them for Christmas, right now I don't have a clue. Sorry I've been missing in action for awhile. I've been sick and will be having tests run soon to see what the problem is. I'll be having a scope ran down my esophagus and into my stomach. Grrrrr, I don't like the sound of it.

SOFTLY SLEEPING

2007-08-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

I stopped by my Amish friends home to have her do some sewing for me. As I pulled up in the drive I noticed the little boy softly sleeping in the shade of a big maple tree. He looked so comfortable it made me want to settle down for a long winters nap myself. The slamming of my car door, coming or going never made him miss one wink. As I backed my car out to leave, he still lay on the soft carpet of green grass. I'm sure he had a long day at school, and a full evening with his chores. It was a visit I won't soon forget.

PRETTY FLOWERS

2007-07-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

I trimmed my rose bush back earlier in the spring and it really came back in full force! This was the first blooms, it's blooming again now with as much vim and vigor! I am having a bit of a pest problem with the Japanese Beetles, grrrr. I will spray again today, I think I've just about got them.

2007-07-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

Me and my son found this turtle in the yard a few weeks back. I believe it was trying to lay it's eggs. What a slowpoke it was, lol. I wish I would take things as slow sometimes, and just enjoy every minute.

SWEET BABIES

2007-07-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

My grandchildren really make me smile! They are so precious, and make me so proud. Little Owen and sweet Calli Jo! Their both growing so fast! Mama loves you both! I hope to be half the grandmother that mine was!

BIRTHDAY BOUQUET

2007-07-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

See my beautiful flowers my sweet husband got me for my birthday, I was so surprised. He had them delivered, so it was a big surprise, lol. My 13 year old son just loved them. He was saying "Wow mom, these are cool!!!" LoL I have a wonderful husband. Thank you my love.

A PEACEFUL RETREAT

2007-06-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

What a peaceful retreat a flower garden is. I am still working on mine this year. It has the look of an abandoned garden retreat. I love the look of unique and old containers and "accessories" in a flower garden. Here I used an old rocker, and my grandfathers old horse feeder to hold these sweet blooms that come back every year. This year I'm expanding a bit. I'm making a quiet place to sit and read a book or pray at the beginning of the path that leads to the cabin. And then halfway thru the path, at the edge of the creek, a bench and some hanging baskets. I still have a lot of work to do, but hopefully will get it done soon. We just returned from camping a couple days ago in case you all wondered where I've been. It was a nice break and I came back revived I believe. Thanks so much for stopping by and come back soon!!!

TIME TO SMELL THE ROSES

2007-06-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

The other day while at the cabin I was resting in the peace and quiet. I felt a tugging at my heart, a need to pray. I prayed and spent some quiet time with the Lord. I enjoyed the birds singing and the smell of the honeysuckle coming through the cabin windows. I felt inspired and I sat down and wrote this poem while sitting on my cabin porch. I wanted to share it and I hope you enjoy it.

TIME TO SMELL THE ROSES

The inventions we’ve created in comparison are pale
To things that God has given us to numerous to tell
Please let me show you, if you will but listen
Turn off, turn down and unplug our witty inventions

I unplugged the radio with the blaring tune
And listened to the songbirds sing something new
It was a song so sweet and they were all on key
It was a gentle soothing song that God wrote just for me

I turned off the T.V. with the violence and shame
And instead watched my children busily at play
They were very entertaining and it made my heart glad
To know God has blessed me with all that I have

I turned off the air and sat in the shade of the trees
And enjoyed the coolness of the feather soft breeze
I sat there so still and said a short but silent prayer
Simply thanking God for His breath of fresh air

I turned off my computer with my lovely blog
And the sight of God's palette pulled me out of a fog
I took time to smell the roses and savor heaven's scent
The suns warmth upon my face felt like an old friend

Finally I unplugged the phone that rudely interrupts
And carries false and vicious tales entirely too much
Gently in my heart spoke that still small voice
I’d have never heard Him had I not turned off the noise

MY PAPA'S BIRD HOUSE

2007-05-27T20:49:00.001-07:00

My papa loved birds, he loved to feed the birds and watch them. Sometimes in the dead of winter with the ground covered in snow and the trees bare, I'd look out the window into his old apple tree and it looked like it was full of big red apples but it would be redbirds. And the snow just made them look prettier. After he was gone I found this bird house he had made, and I took it home with me. It's hanging on my cabin until I find the perfect place for it. I thought it was precious.

GREAT GRANNY'S SOAP KETTLE

2007-05-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

This was my great grannies soap kettle. Mom gave it to me the other day. I just love it.

My pretty grandbabies! Owen holding his baby sister Calli Jo. I just love them to pieces.

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN

2007-05-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

Finally Nancy Jo, here are more pictures. You've seen the back way to the cabin thru the woods from my house. Here's looking at it from the other side. Sorry my porch was a bit messy. You can see my great granny's soap kettle sitting on the porch. My mama gave it to me the other day. And I intend to use it! The porch swing is old and worn, but I hadn't the heart to throw it out. It belonged to my grandparents. Me and grandma used to sit in that swing and sing "The Old Rugged Cross." The clothesline is only a makeshift one, I can take it down or put it up whenever I need it. You see the big oval washtub, the one on the bottom? Well that happens to be my bathtub. Sitting on the porch I watch the birds, and squirrels, and a family of rabbits. There is a deer run in the woods in the front of the cabin up on a hill. The family hasn't deer hunted much in these woods so it is plentiful with wild game. If you plan to spend the night in the cabin, you may get awakened by a "gobble, gobble, gobble." The wild turkeys make a couple runs thru each day, about 18 of them at last site. I hope you enjoy your visit and please come back soon. Oh.... leave me a post, PLEASE! I'd love to come visit you too!

THE TRAIL TO THE CABIN

2007-05-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

On the way to the cabin today the wild roses were bloomed out and smelled heavenly. I opened the windows and the front and back doors of the cabin and the soft wind carried the fragrant smell inside. It was wonderful. The honeysuckle is just blooming out, and a wild fern grows next to the tree, ignore the poison ivy, I did. The air was heavy with the wonderful scent of the wild roses, they were intoxicating

MY TWO SWEETY'S

2007-05-18T16:24:00.001-07:00

My sweethearts practicing ball. The short one needs a haircut badly! The season started late this year, first practice is Tuesday. I'm excited! We love to watch our little shortstop play ball. He's a great pitcher too! My husband was a great ball player too, he taught our boy everything he knows. But I will say he is gifted too, when it comes to ball. When he first started playing we were shocked at his ability, he just seemed to be a natural. My friend Susan from "Penless Writer", was talking about her hubby and how blessed she was. And she reminded me of how blessed I am. I have a wonderful husband! He's my best friend, he's a great father, and a wonderful provider. He's been good to me, and I don't deserve him, I am sooooo blessed. I love you baby.

QUIET RETREAT

2007-05-18T11:37:00.001-07:00

As we pulled into the driveway at this Amish home, we passed this elderly Amish lady. She was walking like nobody's business. I waved and she waved back. I couldn't help but wonder what her day had been like so far, and what she had to do when she returned home. The lady that we visited that day was busy washing clothes when we pulled in. The front of her dress was wet to her shoes. She dried her hands on her plain but handy apron. As many of you know by now, if you've visited here very often. You know that my heart longs for the quiet and tranquil life of the Amish. The gentle, safe haven and gentleness that my heart absorbs hungrily while I'm in their presence, is a pleasant treasure that is savored. I am happy for my little get-away cabin, when feeling overwhelmed it is the perfect place to come home to. I think I'll go there now, to my quiet retreat.

CRAWLY CRITTER

2007-05-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

Looks like some kind of a crawly critter doesn't it? lol It's pretty tho'!

CURTAINS FOR MY CABIN

2007-05-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have new curtains for my cabin. My mom made them for me, aren't they cute! On the bedroom side we're doing muslin curtains. I absolutely love them and I love the fabric! My mom is a perfectionist so you won't find anything wrong with these curtains, lol.

COME WALK WITH ME

2007-05-14T16:52:00.000-07:00

Follow me, down the hill

across the creek,

up the hill,

and around the bend,

My favorite place in the world.... My little get-away cabin. Leave your cell phones, computers, and bring your lantern and favorite craft or a good book and let's sit a spell.

MOM

2007-05-11T19:52:00.000-07:00

I could go on and on about the sacrifices you have made for me. The encouragement you've given me. You've been my friend when I had no other. You've taught me so many things. There's been times I was lost and with strong hands and a gentle love you directed me back to the right path. We've laughed together and cried together. You are my best friend. I love you Mom. You are a wonderful and beautiful woman, and I'm so proud that your my Mom. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

A day never goes by
that I don't think of you
I always see your smile
in Springtimes first bloom
A hymn is never sung
that I don't hear your voice
When I need to talk
your always my first choice
I can only hope to be
Half the mom you've been
I'm so thankful your MY mom
And my dearest friend

Primitive patchwork tablerunner

2007-05-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

Check out my etsy and see the new tablerunner I made! Thanks!

PRECIOUS STONES

2007-05-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

NO GRANDMA MOSES

2007-05-04T20:00:00.000-07:00

A couple years ago me and my mom and my sister went to Stream Cliff Farms. It's a flowergarden/tearoom and they were giving short lessons on primitive grandma moses style painting. Well, this was my first attempt. I have never finished it as you can see the mucky looking piece to the right of the sidewalk. Don't know what I had tried to do, but was attempting to fix it, lol. And don't know why I jumped ahead and signed the darned thing, before I've even finished it. Don't know why I even signed it, attempting to feel like a painter maybe? Well, considering it all, I will say I was quite proud of my first attempt. My mothers painting was very good too, hers was of a sheep. But, my little sisters? Well, hers looked like a tree with fingers. I'm not putting her painting down, but it was hideous. It's kind of a family joke, we tease her about it. There's LOTS of things she can do, but primitive painting, and especially tree branches??? NOT, nope, not her thing. And she'll tell you so too. Mom fixed it but it turned out to be a sheep I do believe. How do you get a sheep out of a tree you ask? Well, all I can say is, you shoulda seen the tree!

IT SITS ALONE

2007-05-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

This beautiful old cabin sits alone and abandoned and decaying. It's such a shame. Every time we go to visit the Amish we pass this cabin. I noticed this time someone had mowed the lawn. I wish someone would save it, it's so pretty. I know it could be such a beautiful place given some TLC. I would love to go inside it, but we've never stopped other than last weekend so I could snap this photo of it.

I'm adding new items to my etsy shop everyday, stop by and browse if you have the time! You may find some goodies! Thanks for stopping by my blog. I know it's hard to take time to comment each time you stop by but I'd love to hear from ALL of you. And again, thanks for stopping by my blog, I appreciate it more than you know. Blessings and hugs to you all!!!!

WELCOME TO MY ETSY SHOP

2007-05-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

I've opened me up an etsy shop. I hope everyone will stop by! I sold a pair of Amish made dolls I had, but I can get more if anyone is interested. You can go to "items sold" and click on that to see them. As soon as my amish friend gets them made they'll be posted. The next set may be spoken for though, not for sure yet.
www.mikkijo.etsy.com

BEAUTIFUL BLUEBELLS

2007-04-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

I love these darling little wildflowers. They come up every year along the edge of our creek bank. They just have so much personality and their color is unbelievable.

AND TIME STOOD STILL

2007-04-28T21:22:00.000-07:00

Such a picture of tranquility, peace, and time standing still but for only a second. I can't explain how the Amish people and their lives draw my heart toward the peace and quiet that surrounds them. If I had no kids left at home, I would surely learn more of their lifestyle. Living it is one thing I know. But for them it is the most natural thing in the world, just like our lives are for us. But as I stay in my cabin, in the dark of night, with oil lamps and candles burning. The quiet that surrounds me except for maybe the sweet song of the nightingale, I feel whole, and at peace with my soul. It has really been eye opening for me. I have really gotten to know myself, and who I am and what I'm about. And I'm learning more everyday. I'm thankful for my little get-away cabin, and the primitive lifestyle that I have chosen to live there. My mind wanders to things that really matter. In the quietness, my spirit hears the music that nature plays and the song that fills my soul is one of depth, lyrics that speak of family, love, Jesus Christ, and all things that matter. In the quietness I can hear the song well, it's not stifled by phones, tv, alarms, the things that steal away time and peace of mind. Thank you Lord, for the song that sings to my soul.

2007-04-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

A RIDE IN THE COUNTRY

2007-04-28T20:22:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be nice to be riding along.

CORNBREAD AND APPLE COBBLER

2007-04-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

Cornbread and Apple cobbler cooking on the side!

BEEF STEW Mmmmm

2007-04-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

The beef stew was really good!

SUPPERTIME

2007-04-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

Suppertime at the cabin last weekend. We had a wonderful time!

Visiting The Amish

2007-04-24T23:09:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful day. We had to go by and drop off a frame that we had of theirs that we had used to move our outhouse. We enjoyed our visit very much. They had asked us about the shooting in Virginia, and we talked about the Amish school shooting also. Some of the Amish community had relatives there. We talked a long time and I got some yummy Maple Syrup. This weekend I'll have to go to pick up my milk. It was hot the other day and we weren't coming straight home so we thought we'd wait till next weekend to get our milk. I talked with them about how their ice house is built, we are planning to build one over at our cabin. I hope you enjoy the pictures. I have a few more I may post tomorrow. Have a great week everyone and thanks so much for visiting!

following the trail

2007-04-24T23:07:00.001-07:00

2007-04-24T23:06:00.001-07:00

2007-04-24T23:04:00.001-07:00

End of the day....

2007-04-24T22:30:00.001-07:00