His Heart, My Desire – Page 2 – Loving Llfe While Striving For A Heart Like His

A Girl and Her Doll

I love this picture! Our sleepy little girl and her baby! Tired little mommy!

When I was about 6 years old, I got a baby doll for Christmas. We were living in Ft. Stockton, Texas and we were in the middle of moving. The night before the big move to a new town, my family went to some friends of my parents home for dinner. I took my brand new baby doll. The next morning we were on our way out of town and I remembered my doll. I had left it at the house we were visiting the night before.

When I told my dad, he said that we didn’t have time to go get it and he would get me another one. I remember sitting in the back seat of the car and was extremely sad. I felt sorry for my doll. I missed her. But…life goes on.

I didn’t have many dolls growing up that I remember. When I was 3, I got a Susie Smart doll for Christmas. She wore a red plaid jumper and had a school desk and chalk board. A year or two later, I got a Candy Fashion doll for Christmas. She was a fashion doll and had mannequins that you could put clothes on since she was a model. I’ve always wondered what happened to those dolls. We moved quiet a bit when I was young, so no telling where they are.

This picture was recently found by my cousin. I had never seen it until recently. And look, I have a baby doll! I love this picture!

As life went on, I helped take care of my two younger brothers. I was 9 years old when my youngest brother was born. I was really too busy with a real baby to worry about baby dolls. I carried him around every where I went. I remember getting in serious trouble from my father when he was disciplining my brother and he came running to me and I hugged him as he was getting in trouble. I could tell millions of stories about my brothers and I growing up as I was a miniature mommy to them. My parents had divorced and my mother worked around the clock, so I was the babysitter and housekeeper. Back to the doll stories….

After the loss of the doll in Ft. Stockton, the only doll I remember having after that was when I was in about the 5th grade. She was called Crissy. She had short red hair and when you pushed a button on her tummy and pulled her hair….her hair grew down to her waist. I really liked her, but, I didn’t really have anyone that played dolls around. I fell into the trap that I was too old for dolls. I kept her for a long time and ended up giving her to a younger girl that I knew.

When our daughter was young, we always made sure she had baby dolls to play with and she so loved her dolls. She would even dress them up and take them to church. I always loved looking at dolls and seeing all the different ones available when shopping for her baby dolls.

Now that we have two granddaughters, we have bought several dolls for them as well. Matter of fact…recently, we took our youngest granddaughter on a birthday trip and we ended the trip with a visit to The American Girl store. I always love going in that store. It’s all I can do to not buy everything possible.

We each picked out a new doll and accessories!

It took me a while to unpack my doll, but, today was the day.

As we were picking out our granddaughters doll, I told myself….”I’m getting me a doll as well!” And I did! I picked Mary Ellen. She is from the 50’s. Each of the dolls from American Girl has a story of a certain time period. They have books and of course lot’s of accessories. Mary Ellen had all the extras such as a pearl necklace and bracelet set, a poodle skirt with oxfords, a sundress, the cutest Christmas punch bowl set and of course a juke box that really works! Yes, I fell for it all!

I’m sure my granddaughter will love playing with her when she is here. I have 4 sets of clothes and changed her once for pictures. I was too tired to change her again…so you will have to settle for just the two pictures of her change of outfits.

Isn’t she the cutest! I loved the retro punch bowl and Christmas deer set. The juke box came in today and it really works. Oh, how could I not get the little dog! I think I need a leash, though. And, look at her little gloves and pearls!

There she is, ready for the sock hop! I think that’s what they called it!

I so hope that parents are still allowing their girls to play with baby dolls. What fun it would be to have all your dolls from your childhood and pass them on to your daughters.

On my Pinterest, I have a board called, iLove Things From the Past. I have found pictures of the dolls I had as a young girl. They look just like I remember them. Except the poor baby doll that was left in Ft. Stockton. I don’t remember what kind of doll she was. I just knew that I missed her and cried for her..that’s all I remember.

Do you have memories of special baby dolls?

She’s loved American Girl dolls for a long time!

I am linking this post with A Wise Woman Builds Her Home.

Fall Vignettes Around My Home

I love the word, vignette! Sounds sort of elegant, doesn’t it? I actually looked up the meaning to make sure I knew what I was talking about. It basically means a small grouping of objects that creates a pleasing focal point.

Remember yesterday… I confessed my procrastination? Well, I didn’t have any procrastination problems. Maybe confession is really a good thing. I actually had a burst of energy yesterday and accomplished quiet a bit.

Here are a few photos from around our home. I hope it inspires you to put some “vignettes” together around your house today. Someone told me that my decorating made them tired. I hope you don’t get tired browsing around. I guess you can take a nap afterwards. -smile Thats to let you know that I’m not taking it serious. I’m actually smiling almost laughing when I think of that statement.

*Welcome to our home! Can I offer you some vanilla iced tea?*

You know I have to have glitter on the pumpkins, right?

*This is a banner that I bought a few years ago, very pretty and hangs on a ribbon. I never know where to put it. I have it hanging on a hook in the laundry room.*

*I had a passel of velvet and glitter pumpkins. I put them in a bowl by the back door in laundry room.*

*I change out this curio for each season. Makes me smile when it’s done.*

*I loved this sign and the pumpkin dish is what I use when I make a pumpkin dip. Maybe I need to share that recipe with you.*

*My island in the kitchen. I love this rhinestone rooster I found when traveling.*

*I had to take a pic with my sparkle app. His tail opens and you can store treasures in it. Like a diamond ring or something????*

*This is a mantel above my stove or should I say range. Anyway…..I put these elves up there. I’m not an elf fan, but…..they had glitter and bling on them….I couldn’t help myself!*

*See, isn’t he cute in sort of a strange elf way? See his velvet and bling? I may have to go see if they have new ones this year!*

My chef wears a different apron each season. She decided to wear her candy corn apron for now. She has a couple of other fall ones waiting. Notice she always wears her pearls and bling while cooking!

*Our entry way! I couldn’t’ remember what I did last year on the console…so, I put velvet pumpkins and filled my domes with sparkles. I forgot to take a picture of the other end.*

*A few pumpkins on the hearth in the master bedroom.*

I found these birds at a boutique when traveling somewhere…couldn’t resist. They are carved wood. So cute. This is in our patio room. We glassed in our patio and it is now our t.v. room. It’s where everyone lands when they come over it seems.

*I found this glass acorn a few weeks ago. This is in our living room.*

*There it is…the great leopard pumpkin. I think it’s ready for a new arrangement in it….but….I’ll think of that another day.*

*I love this glittered bird with a crown. You would think I love birds, wouldn’t you. I think I like birds that don’t mess up our outdoor furniture and porch.*

I always do a fall tree. I thought about skipping it this year. But, I felt so empty without it…so I decorated one last night on the patio room. This is a new tree and it is a skinny tree. I’ve never had a skinny tree like this, so, I had trouble decorating it….but, it is what it is.

*Thank you for stopping by and I hope you come back soon!*
HAPPY FALL!

Happy Fall – 2019

My favorite has finally arrived! We even have a bit of a cloudy morning with a chance of rain….maybe….or maybe it came during the night. In West Texas, any sign of clouds and a chance of rain is a blessing.

I always loved cloudy days growing up and even more so now. I have a few friends who don’t like cloudy days as it makes them sleepy and a bit depressed. Me? A cloudy day gives me energy. I want to cook, clean and create. It’s always funny to see how different we all are in our thoughts. I guess the best news in that, is knowing how we accept one another in our differences…..even the cloudy day thoughts.

Well…remember when I last wrote that I was going to do a newsletter instead of a post each day? That is on hold for now. My days go by so fast! So much I want to do and see. I’m also a procrastinator. I can put things off and dance around what really needs to be done. Sometimes I will find myself working on a project and realize I’m doing that to keep myself from doing what really needs to be done at the moment. Do I get an amen from my fellow procrastinators? I don’t like being a procrastinator. I’m still working on changing my ways. Oh, well, I’ll worry about that tomorrow! See….I told you!

Back to my main reason for writing today. I just wanted to say, “may your fall season be the best ever!”

I will post a few pictures tomorrow (see another procrastination) of my decorating that I did around the house last week. I told my Jim that I was a bit bored with my decorations and that I was going to scrap everything and go buy new as I was tired of everything. I was half teasing….I think he was glad I didn’t really mean it. But, then again, I might surprise him.

I’ll talk with you tomorrow! I’m going to take my pictures right now…unless I see something that needs to be done on my way to get my camera!

Have a fantabulous day and enjoy your weather whatever it may be for you today!

Blog Talk

I’ve been thinking about my blog lately. I’ve had a few ideas on some changes. I even thought about discontinuing my blog writing. After taking a break from blogging over the summer, I realized that I miss writing. I’ve been blogging for over 10 years now and it’s part of who I am. That sounds strange doesn’t it?

Why did you start a blog, Beverly?

I created a blog after attending a writer’s conference and I was encouraged to create an online presence. As I’ve shared before, publishers don’t want to see your work until they see how many followers you have. As I began blogging, I loved it. It was filling a part of me that loved writing. Shortly after I began my blog, I got involved in women’s ministry at my church. I loved writing to encourage women in their walk with Christ. As I wrote for others, I was really encouraging myself! Does that make sense? I also loved the people that I met through blogging. I’ve met like minded people who had the same goals as I did. I also love when I get a comment that is encouraging and motivating.

How long do you plan to keep blogging?

Good question! I have no idea! I’m guessing when I feel like the Lord wants me to stop, He will let me know. I do know that in my mind, I have set some goals and statistics that I hope to see by a certain time and if reach those, that will be what keeps me going. If not, I will take it as my time to discontinue my blog writing. I pray about everything and that is what I expressed to the Lord.

What is your purpose for your blog?

Well, the name of my blog is His Heart, My Desire. Which means, the desire of my heart is to have a heart like His. So, as I write on the topics that I choose to write about, I only hope to inspire others to strive to have a heart like Christ. All the while living life to the fullest!

If I get to the place that my writing does not inspire or encourage, I will stop. The main way that I can tell if I am doing that is by the response I get from my readers. I love the comments left on my blog and the emails that I receive commenting on something that they read that triggered something or was an encouragement in their lives.

What exactly do you write about?

Now, that’s a tough one. I LOVE everything, so I have a huge long list of things that I love to write about. I’ve been taught that you write what you know. I’ve been in some unique places and have had some crazy experiences. Sometimes I think I’m not normal because the things I’ve been through aren’t your basic normal things.

Here is a short list of some of my favorite topics:

Home and Family, Decorating, Fashion, Bible Study, Pastors Wife, Women’s Ministry, Holiday’s, Writing, Testimonial, Genealogy, Blogging, Life Purpose, Grandchildren, Homeschooling, Empty Nest, Travel, Photography and the list goes on and on and on.

Now for my latest ideas for my blog. I would love for you to subscribe to my blog and that way you never miss a post. Not to mention in how great it would sound to a publisher that I have a million subscribers. A million? Anyway, if you choose not to, that is perfectly fine. I know how it is to not want clutter in your inbox. But, if you do….thank you!

I have decided to change my settings to where you will only receive one email a week that will have all the links to the blog posts for that week. Instead of getting an email each time I post you will just get one, which hopefully will be in newsletter style. Lately, I panic if I write too much, I think, “oh, I’d hate for someone to say…there she is again, cluttering up my inbox!” So at the end of this week, I will put together a newsletter that will have the links to each blog post for the week. I hope that makes sense. I sure hope I can do it. My computer skills are lacking. It’s a miracle that I can blog.

Now…I have a question for you….

What subjects inspire or encourages you the most? Is there something you would like to read or see on my blog? Feel free to email me at beverly@beverlydillow.com I would love to hear you thoughts and ideas.

One last thing….I do not blog to make money. So you will not see pop ups or ads. If I do have a link to something, it is because I am sharing something that I use or love. There have been a few times that I use an affiliate link of something that I recommend, such as an Amazon product or through another company I purchase from. IF…I make any money from those, I use that to donate to a couple of human trafficking organizations that I support.

There you go, my thoughts on my blogging world!

Dry Cleaning Tips

We have been in the dry cleaning business for 22 years. We just recently received a notice from our local newspaper that our business was voted #1 Drying Cleaner for the 22nd year. This is a program that most local newspapers do for various retail establishments in the city and the community will vote for their favorites. They then announce it with a large ad in the paper. So, how fun to see our now 6 stores listed in the “list of favorites.”

I’ve received a few questions about how the dry cleaning world works. I’ve shared a few details before in previous posts and so I thought I would write a fresh one for you.

Laundry is an important issue as we wear clothes everyday and we spend our hard earned money on clothes. We want them to always be cleaned and looking nice, right?

I love this quote…

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak!” – Rachel Zoe (fashion designer)

And I say… “You might be stylin’ but if you have stains and are all wrinkled, that might be speaking louder over your amazing style!” – Beverly Dillow (that’s me!)

How do you like the way I made my own quote as if I am somebody!

Well today, I’m going to give you my tips for your dry cleaning!

*Try to be loyal to your dry cleaner. If you hop around and try different dry cleaners, you will get confused on who, what, where and how things are done. Also, you may forget where you leave your clothes. So, if you can find a dry cleaner that you like the way they do business, be loyal to them.

*When you are a loyal customer you will know the employees and can build a relationship with them. There is nothing better than pulling up to the window or walking in the front door and you are greeted by your name by the employees. I know for our stores we have managers at each one and a district manager. These ladies know their customers and take care of them. We also live in a community that has a large turn over of employees, so when you see a new person, introduce yourself and get to know them. Granted they may not be there for long, but, then again, they may end up being there for the next 22 years! You just never know. We have some ladies that have been with us the entire time. For me, I still introduce myself to those waiting on me if I can’t remember their names or I’m sure they don’t remember me. They see hundreds of people each day and whew wee…I can barely remember my own name sometimes. So give the workers much grace when dealing with them.

*Stay on top of the business hours and anytime a holiday is coming up, make note of any changes in times that the store will be open.

*Look for cleanliness. I get tickled when I see dry-cleaning businesses that you would be afraid to leave your clothes in due to it being unkept and not clean. But, they are out there. The thing I love about our stores, is they are top-notch and clean. My husband and brother do not let anything go undone. Everything from the parking lot in front to the curb behind the store is in perfect condition. We have a maintenance man who stays busy keeping everything in perfect working order. Not only are my husband and brother business partners, but I have another brother who retired and has moved back to our area and he makes sure our properties are always in great condition! My mom is our office manager and bookkeeper. She can go in any store and everyone knows her and can talk to her about anything. She has helped many ladies throughout the years. I wish I had the room to tell you so much more. Me? I don’t work at the stores in any way. When we first started this business, I worked one day because someone was sick. Let’s just say…..I’m leaving it to the professionals!

Okay…back to my tips!

*I put all of my dry-cleaning and laundry in a bag that has my name and contact info on it. Our stores give these to you free of charge. We call them “Happy Bags.” I guess because they make everyone happy that you are so organized. I’m not sure. Anyway, this will keep all of your things together and makes it easier on the employees. If you don’t have a bag, no problem, many people don’t use them.

*I also make sure all of my pockets are empty. You would be surprised what people leave in their pockets. Our employees are trained to go through every pocket. I’m sure you can only imagine what happens when someone leaves an ink pen or a tube of lipstick in their pockets and it is overlooked. Yes….disaster in an entire load of laundry! Much more work! So, always empty your pockets.

*I make sure buttons are unbuttoned. Someone has to unbutton everything, so I just make it easier for them. Speaking of buttons….buttons are replaced when they are noticed to be broken or missing. Every now and then, they will be missed. This is probably the worse of the worst. When someone picks up a shirt and they leave town and get to an important business meeting and then they have a missing button. Not good. Accidents happen and everyone is a human and no one is perfect. Again, much grace….but, oh my…..I know that feeling when you are in a hurry, out of town or whatever….and you notice something is not right with your garment.

*If you have a stain or missing button, be sure to point it out when you take your garments in.

*Make note of what can and can’t be dry cleaned or laundered. The employees are trained to know the difference. They also go by the label that is in the garment. Sometimes things go wrong and the garment has been cared for by what the label says. That is when it is a manufacturer problem and will have to be dealt with through them. That is always a sad day, too. But, it happens. Know your clothes! When shopping you might make note of things like that, especially if it has lot’s of embellishments. I love clothes that are different and unique, so, I’m always watching out for how I clean my clothes.

*Here are a few things that that I have learned to do. * I travel with a small sewing kit. *I make sure that when an event is coming up, I plan accordingly with my garments and pick them up way before the time to be at the event just to be safe. *When I get my clothes home, I unbag them, inspect and put them away. *I always know exactly what I drop off at the cleaners each time and when they need to be picked up.

*This is important…..If you get your clothes home and find that you have a garment that isn’t yours….take it back immediately. Whew, I could tell you some nightmare stories on that one. Did you know that some people will keep their clothes in the bag for months before discovering they have the wrong clothes. Yep….bad on both ends!

*Make note of the store policy for garments left longer than usual. We have same day service if you get your garment in by a certain time in the morning. If it is a household good, it takes longer, usually the next day. As you can only imagine that comforters, etc. take much longer to process. Anyway, we also have a 60 day policy that you have to get your clothes or they will be donated to a local charity. You will receive several calls before they are donated. We can only assume you no longer want your garment if it is over 60 days and you don’t respond to phone calls. Money is lost on the time and labor over many garments that are just left all alone to fend for themselves. It’s sad, but not enough space would house all the left clothing. All that to say, don’t forget your clothes!

*Last but not least, be kind and friendly to the employees. They are hard workers and they have a hard job, especially, in the heat! I admire each and everyone of them. They love life, work hard and go home to their families. You can only imagine how they are treated sometimes. Some people are rushed, rude and hateful sometimes. But, the customers who show grace, gratitude and kindness outweigh the rude ones. I think that is par for any business out there.

*Always remember that there are a lot of people in the workforce who just don’t know how to make it in the working world. They can’t be trained to even smile. You never know where someone is coming from or what they have been through. You might even add some folks to your prayer list and witnessing list. We do our best to train our employees to be kind, courteous, smile and do a good job. All I can say is…..parents teach your kiddos how to make it in the working world someday. *I think I just gave myself a new blog post idea!

*If you have an issue, talk to the manager of the store. They will do all they can to help solve the problem. They are there to help and make the business better and they are on your side. One hint, if you have a problem and it takes a while to solve, I would be patient and work with the manager. Trust me, she wants it solved as well. I can’t count how many times someone has sworn they didn’t get one of their garments and they have been paid for it and then weeks later they come and say they found it in their closet. I have to share this…it’s my favorite of all times. When someone brought in a mustard stain on a shirt. It had been there for quiet some time. The stain would not come out. She insisted on being paid for that garment. So, can you imagine, you stain your clothes, and then if it doesn’t come out, you get paid for it. Amazing! That would be a great way to build a new wardrobe, wouldn’t it? I don’t think so…

I hope that helps a little bit in making your dry cleaning trips a bit easier and more pleasant.

We are extremely grateful for our employees and especially our customers. We have the best customers ever. I try my best to be a good customer when I go anywhere! I want people to smile when they see me coming….not, “Uh oh, there she is!” If I get bad service somewhere, I quietly go elsewhere. I’m not out to demand that I be treated like a queen…..I just move on. But, you treat me like a queen and I’ll be back!

Thanks so much for being a reader of my blog, His Heart, My Desire. My blog is hopefully inspiring and encouraging somehow…someway. You never know what will be on my mind each day.

As you can imagine, Dry Cleaning is in my blood….so to speak….here is a link to another post I did on this subject. Be sure to visit the links on that post as well….lot’s of info for sure! Click here to read more.

40 Days To Fabulous!

Hi Friends! I’ve been taking a summer break from blogging…but, I had to let you know about 40 Days To Fabulous! I’m excited that 40 Days To Fabulous is continuing with their third season on August 20th! You will want to sign up today! Okay, maybe you don’t get as excited as I do….you can wait….but, not too long. Registration will cut off soon!

I have loved being a member of 40 Days To Fabulous. Shari Braendel who is an author, speaker, fashionista and of course an amazing Fashion Stylist. Shari has made it her mission to share faith along with fashion. I love her message and her heart for women and I know you will too!

Today is the first day to sign up for the new season and I so hope you will join me. I’m already signed up and can’t wait for the first class.

This year is packed with some great speakers! Shari will also be sharing the latest trends in fashion and how to develop your own style. I heard that we will be making our own personal style notebook. I can’t wait to hear more about that!

If that isn’t enough! When you register, your name goes in a drawing for a $500.00 gift bag filled with books, jewelry and clothing and more.

Here’s what you get:

6 Faith Speakers with 6 life-changing lessons to lead you
closer to Jesus

1 Fashion Speaker to lead you toward confident style and beauty
this fall season

40 days of faith and fashion study guides

6 weekly LIVE video training sessions (50 minutes each)…sessions
recorded in case you can’t join us LIVE

Guidance on how to build a personal resource titled “My Fabulous
Fashion Notebook”

6 Weeks of becoming your very best YOU!

Energizing and encouraging private FB community like none other
Less frazzle, more freedom!

Up close and personal with well known Christian authors and
speakers to ask them questions and have community with them

If that’s not enough… EARLY BIRD BONUSES!
Register in the next 3 days and you’ll be entered 15 TIMES to win the amazing Grab Bag Bonus Gift Pack valued at $500!!! Included are signed books from the authors, a $100 clothing piece from Natalie Attired, Jewelry and MORE more, more!!!!!….in fact, there are a total of 15 things in the Bonus pack!!!! In addition, EVERYONE who enters in the next 3 days is invited to a POWER PACKED goal setting workshop in October called Ready, Set, Shine! led by two AMAZING Military spouse leaders!

The cost is $40.00!

Click here and register today!

I hope you will join me as we are encouraged to walk with Christ as we learn all about fashion.

My two favorite things…….Jesus and…..fashion!

What fun it will be to do this together!

Wednesday Medley – May Day

I had so much fun participating in the Wednesday Medley that is hosted by Terri from the blog, Your Friend in Florida, last week, that I wanted to participate again. I’ll attempt to answer the questions but first here is an explanation of what May Day is all about. She said the description is taken from the National Day Calendar.

Hope you enjoy….I wonder what the questions are…..I’m a bit nervous. I so don’t want to bore you. 😉

MAY DAY

May Day is observed annually on May 1. In many ancient calendars, May 1 was the first day of summer. This was a cause for celebration. One of the more popular rituals was harvesting flowers and giving them to neighbors and strangers in cone-shaped baskets. These “May Baskets” become more commonly known as “May Day Baskets”. The current tradition is observed by hanging a cone-shaped basket full of flowers or other gifts on the outside doorknob, then knocking or ringing the doorbell and run away.May Day has been a traditional day of celebration for centuries, with some of the earliest appearings in pre-Christian times. In English tradition, May Day is celebrated by crowning a May Queen and dancing around a maypole. The Finnish tradition is a carnival-type celebration in the streets that includes a special type of lemonade that is made with lemons, brown sugar and yeast. In France, it is correct to give people either dogwood or lily of the valley to celebrate May Day. In Italy, a seasonal feast is held to celebrate the arrival of spring.While different countries have different ways to celebrate May Day, it is truly a celebration of spring.

HOW TO OBSERVE –Use #MayDay when posting on Social Media. Participate in the May Day tradition of hanging baskets of flowers on doors.

1. Ahhh… May Day!! Happy May! Did you celebrate this when you were a child by dancing around a Maypole or leaving flowers on someone’s porch? Will you be celebrating a special occasion in May?(There are so many other things being celebrated today that I think we need to give them some attention, too!)

I remember one time in elementary school doing a Maypole. All I remember is a tall pole on the playground and we all took a ribbon that was attached to the pole and we went around the pole in a circle. That is all I remember. When my daughter was young she wanted to put flowers on someones door. She made a paper cone and put some wildflowers in it and we put it on a neighbors door.

I never hear much about May Day these days. I have a feeling it’s a dying holiday.

There are a few birthdays happening in the month of May and one of them happens to be mine! It’s going to be the big one!

2. National Mother Goose Day was founded in 1987. Can you name a nursery rhyme that would fit your life as it was in 1987? HERE is a list of nursery rhymes.

Oh my….where was I in 1987?

I was a busy pastor’s wife in a small west Texas town with a 4 year old little girl and a 1 year old baby boy.

As far as a nursery rhyme that would fit my life, I’m going to go with, Rock a Bye Baby. My cute little red headed baby boy wouldn’t sleep. I would rock him until he was sound asleep and the second I put him in his bed, he would wake up crying. So, I held him a lot so he could sleep and I would nod off myself. Our sweet little toddler girl was busy as a bee and was such a sweet big sister. She was too busy to rest herself. I just got tired all of the sudden remembering those days.

This picture was taken at a later date than what I was sharing , but, it gives an idea of our little family. Naps eventually became a regular part of our day.

3. National Chocolate Parfait Day is also honored on this day. Parfait means perfect in French. Tell us about a perfect day, in your mind, and would/could it end with a chocolate parfait?

I haven’t had a chocolate parfait in forever. I’m thinking that would be a great way to end the day.

A perfect day? Whew, that is a hard one. I’m going to have to say that any day is a perfect day when everyone is happy and healthy and I feel loved and accepted by those that I love. Throw in spending a morning in my quiet time with the Lord without being rushed. For the rest of the day; doing exactly what I want to do for the rest of the day! Is that too much to ask? -wink

4. National School Principal’s Day was founded to celebrate these school administrators who support and guide quality teachers and staff to provide productive learning environments for our children. Did you have a good Principal when you were in school? Do you remember his/her name?

Oh my…..If I told you how many schools I was in as a child, you would be scratching your head wondering how I’m even here. I don’t remember names except for one in Jr. High. His name was Mr. Monroe. I was bullied in jr. high and he watched me get beat up across the street from the school. When I got in my classroom after the terrible incident, he called over the speaker to send me to the office. I went in to his office and he shut the door and began brushing the dirt off of me. I was basically in shock. I began to cry as he told me he saw the whole thing and wanted to know what the story was. I asked him why he didn’t come and stop the fight. He said, “because you were off of school property.” That’s all I remember. It was extremely traumatic!

I just remembered one more incident with this same principal. I was sitting in homemaking class one day and our teacher left the room for a few minutes. As soon as she left the room everyone went nuts. Kids were running around throwing things, screaming etc. I was sitting at my desk and I had my hair in a long pony tail that day. This one girl that was running around the room like a crazy girl…..grabbed my pony tail as she ran behind me. She pulled me out of my chair and drug me on the ground. I was in shock. I got back up and sat in my chair. Remember, I was extremely shy. When the teacher came back in the room everyone was sitting all nice and straight in their chairs. Then the teacher called me up to the desk along with the girl that grabbed me by the hair and told us that someone saw what happened and she sent both of us to the principal. I had to walk with this girl all the way to his office and then stand in his office with her staring at me as he asked me what happened. I explained and he scolded the girl and sent us back to our class. I went all through high school with this girl and I dodged her every chance I got as she would try to pick fights with me. It wasn’t fun!

So now you know why I didn’t like school and especially jr. high. Those were the worst two years of my life. Let’s move on to a different subject.

This is proof that I did graduate and all in one piece! 🙂 But, by the grace of God! Trust me!

5. And perhaps the most important one is Silver Star Service Banner Day which honors the sacrifices of the combat wounded, ill, and dying service members from all branches of the military. Do you have family members who have served this country in uniform? Tell us about them, if you will.

My husband served in the US Navy. I met him when he got out of the Navy. He served on a Nuclear Power Submarine. I’m thankful for his service and I love to hear his stories of where he was and what all he did while serving in the military!

My brother served in the US Marine Corp during Desert Storm. He has some amazing stories. It was a very memorable time as it was a very scary time. He is a strong and proud Marine!

My father and grandfather both served in the US Navy.

This is my dad’s Navy picture. I should have cropped it better!

6. It’s Hump Day! How is your week going so far?

My week is going great! Hair appointment, dinner with our kiddos, two concerts coming up with Celtic Woman and Piano Guys, an art exhibit of a friend and then a play as well as my regular duties that I do each day. Life is good!

Thanks so much for reading along.

Until next time,

Beverly’s Favorite Things

How are you doing? Can you believe that April is just about over? I can’t! Time is clicking along, isn’t it? I do hope you have had a wonderful 4 months of 2019. We have so much to be thankful for….even when things don’t go smoothly. A good example is my moms recent accident. I wrote about it on my last post. I thank the Lord everyday that it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. She had seven stitches above her eye after a bad fall. But….no broken bones, no skull fractures, no pain! You read that right…no pain! The doctor ordered her a couple of medications and she didn’t even get them filled. She has some strong bones and a strong head. -wink

I thought it would be fun to do a quick little post of some of the latest things that I have purchased or ordered online and fallen in love with.

I love purses….but, it is so hard to find a really good purse that feels good as you carry it and doesn’t weigh too much on my arm. Plus, it has to look really cute.

I purchased this bag when we were in Hilton Head, SC a few weeks ago. I made my first visit to a store called Spartina! Yes, I fell in love with their bags and jewelry. I even bought a scarf that has pictures of Texas landmarks on it, not to mention a few pieces of jewelry. I’l share those another time. Click here to go to their site.

As I was walking through Dillards in Austin last weekend, I spotted a purse on the sale table. I couldn’t leave the store without it and I’ve really loved carrying it. It is lightweight and holds everything I need and the size is just right….as in baby bear’s comment in Goldilocks. Anyway…here is a link to the purse. I’m not able to copy and paste the picture from the site, so you will have to go check it out. Sorry about that! I got it in hot pink! 🙂

I am not a huge fan of salads. But….when I do eat a salad, I like it to be chopped as much as possible. I found this fun little gadget on Amazon. It works really good. You put all of your lettuce and veggies in the bowl and then just cut through all the little slits and voila….you have a chopped salad. Easy and no mess!

Also from Amazon, I purchased a digital scale. I’m ALWAYS working on weight loss issues it seems and when I read about this scale, I thought…this might help me stay motivated with all the bells and whistles. I used it first thing this morning. You set up your bluetooth and you will have all kinds of charts and graphs of things I have never even knew about. Let’s just say that after I weighed this morning…my eyes were opened to a couple of things that made me think…..I need to be more intentional and serious about this little project of mine. Or should I say, hobby. Does anyone get so tired of having weight issues hanging over your head? I sure do! The scale readings made me think more of health than actually losing weight to look better. Okay enough of that…we can talk weight issues later. Here is a link to the scale I purchased.

I’m always buying books. I read them and if I really loved them, I keep them and if I’m ready to say goodbye, I put the read books in a large basket designated for just books. I usually take them to the library and donate them and I recently was told that I should take them to a used bookstore and sell them. I may try that next time my basket gets full. Here is the last book I purchased. I haven’t read it yet, but I can’t wait to go through it. Click here to check it out on Amazon. I love organizing and I’m always attracted to organizing books!

I’m also a fan of beauty treatments. I know, you can’t really tell, but, I am! I’m always trying the latest when it comes to skin care, hair care and make-up. This is the last thing I purchased. Still trying it out. I’ve noticed that the older we get, our neck looks different. Or is it just me? Anyway, I purchased a neck serum off of QVC forever ago and my neck looks the same and I keep thinking, “when is this stuff going to run out?” I gave up and purchased this item. Click here to read about it. We will see how my neck looks when the jar is empty. -wink

A couple of years ago, I ordered a few things from this company. I was excited to hear that one of my favorite speakers in women’s ministry, Debbie Stuart, is doing an online Bible study with one of this company’s products. I ordered the book from Daily Grace Company and I look forward to doing the study.

Thanks for following along with me and reading about my latest purchases! I only share the things that I like. I don’t give negative reviews….if I don’t like something, I do away with it and never mention it again. Except for the never ending neck serum. It smells good and feels good….I just haven’t seen a difference. Maybe I’m not using enough and that is why it’s lasting FOREVER!

Until next time,

Fabulous Living in the Empty Nest Years

I have the honor of having new friends and lifelong friends who are my age or older. I thought it would be fun to share some of the amazing people that I know who haven’t let the empty nest years slow them down. Some have reinvented themselves after all the cuties have flown the nest and some have just kept on keepin’ on doing what they have always done.

I know that some people enter this season of life without a thought or care and then there are some like me who think….”Oh my, now what do I do?” “What’s my purpose?” “Does anything I do make a difference?” “People aren’t interested in what a 50 plus woman thinks or does.” “So much for 20 year goals…I may not even be here.” Sounds like a pity party, doesn’t it? Well, I refuse to have a pity party. I want to embrace this season of life with all that God designed for me with all that I have…. and I know you do, too!

My husband and I are enjoying our season of empty nest as much as possible. We have been traveling and seeing things that I only dreamed of. We enjoy our kids and grandkids and love being around them. I don’t take anything for granted and I know where my blessings come from and because of God’s amazing grace am I able to do the things that we are able to partake in.

I know I have some young moms and even singles that are readers of my blog. That makes me happy. I want to encourage you that someday, you will enjoy life after you have raised your children. I always struggled with that thought as I couldn’t imagine living without my children close by. Yes, I’m one of those. I love being a mom. Now I have the joy of being a Mimi and watching my children in their marriages and as parents. My heart smiles when I think of my children as adults and I will hold the memories of them as little ones that depended on me for everything in my heart forever. Seasons of life are sometimes hard to get used to, but, if we are prepared, it will make it easier. Personally, I wasn’t prepared. I’m still learning.

All that to say….I really hope these articles of introducing you to some amazing ladies will only inspire and encourage you for the future. Also, for those like me….it’s never too late to be inspired and make any changes that need to be made. Are you ready to meet my first inspirational friend?

I met Rhodema 4 years ago. She and her husband were moving to our area from East Texas and the leader of a writer’s group that she was a member of, gave her my email address to see if there were any writer’s groups in her new city. Rhodema is a writer. She has been published in a few magazines and is working on a historical fiction book.

When I received her email and answered her questions, I also told her to contact me when she made the move and we would go to lunch. Once she got moved and all settled, she contacted me and we attended a writer’s group and also went to lunch and became instant friends. We were the same age and had a lot in common.

Rhodema had recently lost her father whom she loved very much. She has four grown children and 4 grandchildren who are basically all around the world. Rhodema homeschooled her children through graduation. Her oldest is married and has 4 adorable children and she and her husband are medical missionaries in a far away country. Another daughter is a nurse at a hospital in another city. Another daughter is a Moody Bible Institute graduate and is in the process of moving to another country as well. Her youngest is an aspiring actor in Hollywood and has been in several television shows and movies.

Rhodema is also the wife (38 years) of a busy doctor who has his own practice. So, you can see she has a busy and full life. Once she moved to her new city and oh, so far away from family, friends and church, she found herself in the throws of the empty nest world. She loves writing and she loves gardening and that kept her pretty busy, but, she felt something was still missing. The quietness was still hard to get used to. So one day, she picked up a paint brush and gave it a whirl. She loved it! She enrolled in some painting classes and joined a painters club.

Long story short…..

This very week, she is a featured artist with over 40 pieces of her work on display and for sale at a local venue. She is now known as a local artist of our city.

If all of that isn’t enough, she is also a tutor for some college age students and she volunteers for a mission in our city.

I hope you have enjoyed getting to know my friend, Rhodema! If you would like to follow her on some of her social media, here are her links:

Website

Instagram

A couple of years ago, I shared in a post, a friend of mine in Oklahoma who is also an artist. She is another one who picked up a paint brush one day and is now a well known artist. Click here to read about my friend, Karin and follow her work. She is amazing!

Yes, I picked up a brush and tried to paint. It didn’t work. I just don’t have it, evidently! I know many artists and it seems everyone has their own style and what fun it is to watch them in all of their creativity. I can do a stick figure and that is about it.

Thanks for being a reader of my blog and I hope you will subscribe and receive updates in your inbox each time I make a new post. I’m trying to build my reader list. If that isn’t your thing, that is okay. I do hope you will come back and visit again. My desire is that you will be inspired and encouraged by something you read.

Until next time….

Wednesday Medley – Pigs In a Blanket

I have a dear friend who I met at a blogger/writer’s conference a few years ago. I always enjoy reading her blog, CiCi’s Corner. She participates in “Wednesday Medley.” Each Wednesday she and other bloggers receive the same questions and what fun it is to read the answers. I have so much in common with my blogger friend that I’m always thinking…”we have to be sisters!”

I decided to give it a whirl. I made today the day I would begin Wednesday Medly and the questions are about Pigs in a Blanket. I then thought, maybe this is a mistake, this isn’t for me. But, I said, “Beverly, get out of your box and answer these easy questions about…. Pigs in a Blanket!” So, here we go…..hang with me!

1. Typically served as an hors d’oeuvre, have you ever made or had a Pig-in-a-Blanket? Do you like Pigs-in-a-Blanket?

I have for sure had Pigs in a Blanket! I think they are a staple at parties….at least in Texas they are!

I have also made them several times. When my kids were young, we would get a can of crescent rolls and put a Lil Smokie in them and bake. Sometimes, I would put an actual hot dog in the crescent roll with a piece of cheese. Pretty good and kid friendly!

2. Pigs-in-a-blanket are also known as devils on horseback, kilted sausages, and wiener winks. (Seriously.) Please make up another name for this fun little appetizer!

I’m thinking…….

Well, I can’t think of a thing! I’ve called them Pigs in a Blanket forever, so I feel bad renaming them!

3. In the UK, pigs-in-blankets are small sausages, or chipolatas wrapped up in bacon. Which country’s version is most appealing to your taste buds?

Image result for sausages wrapped in bacon

I think they sound fairly good. They don’t look as appetizing to me as the crescent rolls though.

4. The first written record of pigs-in-a-blanket occurs in Betty Crocker’s Cooking for Kids in 1957. In this digital world, do you still have a favorite cookbook you use most of the time? Is there a recipe you can share with us from that cookbook?

I LOVE cookbooks of all kinds. Matter of fact, I collect them! I know, you think I’m an amazing cook, right? Well, I collect cookbooks, but, I don’t like to cook! I read cookbooks and dream of cooking, but, then when it comes right down to it….I don’t want to! Secretly, I picture myself getting back into the cooking routine and baking some amazing pies, cookies and cakes. We will see what happens. I’ll let you know if the cooking bug hits me soon!

I adore reading through the old Betty Crocker Cookbook. I have memories of my aunt making recipes out of it and she had notes all over the pages. When she passed away not too long ago, the first thing I thought of was her cookbook. How I’d love to read through that again and see her hand writing on her favorite recipes.

I have made the potato salad that is in the Betty Crocker cookbook several times and it is delicious! I would share the recipe, but, I’m out of town and I don’t have it with me! But, trust me, it’s a good one!

5. What is your favorite cooking show on TV?

I enjoy watching the Pioneer Woman. She amazes me! She seems down to earth and cooks normal things all while smiling the entire time. I’ve bought some of her cookware and dishes hoping that would inspire me to get to cooking…..hasn’t worked yet. She has a fairly new magazine and it is so much fun to read! I also have all of her cookbooks! I’m even thinking I would love to have decals on my kitchen aid mixer like she has on some of hers. Maybe that’s the answer to getting in the kitchen to cook….decals on my red mixer!

6. Tell us something random about your week, please!

Well, we came to the Texas Hill Country to our get-a-way home. Our grandchildren live around the corner, so it is alway a treat to see the family. We enjoyed Easter services together and a brunch at the country club. A couple of evenings ago we were watching the two young ones while the rest the family went to dinner. We had the evening filled with a shopping trip to Target for Lego’s and burgers and a movie. I then got a call that my mom had fallen at the movie theater. She had taken her granddaughter to a movie. My niece and her friend had ran on and my mom was walking up the hall alone and she tripped and fell. She fell into the wall and hit her head on a door jam. It happened so fast, she said she remembers thinking to herself, “this is going to be bad!” She was bleeding horribly and couldn’t get up as her knee hurt awfully bad! She yelled for help and some people came to her rescue. They found my niece and she called her dad. (my brother) Long story short….an ambulance, 7 stitches and blood everywhere, I was a nervous wreck! I was 300 miles away and couldn’t do anything but pray! Our sweet little grandsons prayed with my husband and I and were very concerned. Needless to say, I wasn’t much fun for the little boys that night, but my husband took over as I was on the phone most of the night. So thankful for my two brothers that beat the ambulance and were there for her and took care of her. My niece was so sweet to help out in anyway she could. I’m sure she was scared to death! I received pictures of everything. If you know me, I am a very queasy person and I can’t take the site of blood, stitches or anything, but, I was able to handle this….it’s my mom! Bless her little heart! She is a strong lady in so many ways and obviously very strong when it comes to a horrible fall. She didn’t break anything and all was clear with her head as we feared something worse than a horrible cut on her forehead! It’s a miracle…. that’s all I can say. If you saw her face, you would be amazed. But, there is no way I’m going to share those pictures. My pet peeve is when people post pictures of horrible accidents on social media. I’m not doing that! I can’t wait to get home to see her and take care of her.

One more thing about this week. Yesterday, we drove a couple of hours to see my aunt and uncle. I haven’t seen them in quiet some time. My uncle is 91 and he and my aunt are amazing! We took them to lunch and visited for a few hours. I have so many memories of them as a little girl. We lived around them for a couple of years when I was about 6 and 7 years old and I loved being around them. I wish you could meet them….they are precious. I’m sure I’ll be sharing things every now and then about some of my memories about them. I have a feeling my aunt probably made pigs in a blanket when I was at her house. She was always making fun little things like that!

Now this has definitely been an eventful week! I’m also wondering what next Wednesday’s questions will be about!

Until next time….

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