2012 Revolutions

Christmas 2011

Christmas 2011

Blessings in a bag

These little bags will house one of the gifts that I am giving this Christmas.  I wish I could tell you, but it's a secret for now.

Simple Christmas

At home in Winter Haven, I pull out all the stops when it comes to decorating for Christmas.  I always have a traditional pine tree in the living room and 3 alpine trees for the family room. Not to mention the staircase trimming, table top apple trees in the dining room, one year I even had a tree decorated on the pool lanai.  But this year in NJ, I decided to keep it simple.  

One pine wreath for the inside....and

one boxwood wreath for the outside.  This will be the extent of my Christmas decor this year.  Two simple burlap ribbon bows and the decorating is done.  Amazingly, I am as pleased with this simple low key decor as I was with the strings of lights and fancy bows.  I bought my wreaths at a feed store down the road, and   then stopped at this little general store and treated myself to a cup of coffee and a slice of homemade sweet cake. I couldn't believe the cost $2.71 for both.  I'm glad they haven't caught on to Starbucks prices.

Natalia room styling

The starting point...Rug, wall colors, lighting, and butter yellow sofa set.

What we added...layers of muted/traditional accessories to fit Natalia's style.

Fall Photos

Fall Photos Taken in the Hamilton Square NJ Neighborhood where Jeff and I are living.

The master uses our hands

Bistro AIX event in San Marco

Gluhwein and Gingerbread

To 4 litres of red wine you need:

• Caster sugar (amount proportional to quality of red wine, the worse the wine the more sugar you need, add it to taste, but start with about 2 cups)
• 6 - 8 Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• 2 Oranges
• Whole allspice
• 2 cups of orange juice
• If you wish to get your friends and yourself tipsy even more quickly, or just to add a little extra kick, add brandy, sweet sherry or port to the mix. (optional but rather tasty)

Remembrance of Summer 2011

This morning I was looking at my end of summer tan with the sad thought that it would soon be fading.  The Florida tan is an accumulation of precious days spent in the sun; days that I will remember as gifts from God, my loving Father.  

My summer began with a family celebration in honor of Todd and Luba; my son and his fiance, two very precious young people who have made my life full of pride.  What a wonderful day it was shared by all our family members; true treasure day.  I am thankful too for days spent on the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico; for fabulous meals at sidewalk cafes in South Beach, Winter Park, Tarpon Springs, and Coconut Grove.  

I enjoyed cool mountain mornings in Shady Valley; a dip in the "Blue Hole" with my lovely sister/friend Bonnie.  I have never had a more perfect spa experience than the outdoor shower on the deck.  I celebrated our freedom with our neighbors in TN and gazed and awed at the annual fireworks from our perch high above the valley.  Grammy camp with my granddaughters included making fudge, chocolate chip pancakes, pillowcases, and watching "Secretariat" at least 6 times. 

I visited wineries, the sponge docks, and had a sunset seafood dinner in Treasure Island.  I shared a lunch with my oldest and dearest friend Patti; loved catching up with her and all the wonderful news of her sweet family. My toes were pedicured while I shared precious time with my sister Pam.  My downtown Winter Haven visits to my Mama's ballroom, Tsunami sushi, and key lime pie at Linda and Elmo's were such a treat. 

I shopped for scrubs with my Desiree and watched her begin her journey as a medical student.  I shared her joys as she reported on the days blessed events in labor and delivery and held her as she cried over the first tragedy.  We made homemade bread, orange marmalade, mini banana puddings, and ate crazy good truffle cheese drizzled with honey while playing card games.  I made a new German friend (and you can never have too many of them); love you Lea Marie.  I also made a new friend from France courtesy of my niece Jennifer.

I spent much time with my Daddy as he helped me whenever I called.  He was continuously patient and giving of his time as I fumbled through the job of maintaining this home, equipment, and property that we are so blessed to have.  The horses and the dogs were sources of comfort and I apologize for the times that I grumbled during the heat and summer storms to take care of their needs.

Jeff was working in New Jersey, so I didn't have many days with my wonderful husband, but the ones I did have were all the more precious.  We ended our summer with a road trip for me from Florida to Charleston to Tennessee to join him in New Jersey to a wonderful 4 days of camping and vacationing old school in Maine.  Our time with Scott, Amanda, and Conor was relaxing, simple, and good...so good!

My summer was not without it's heartaches as I said goodbye to my beloved Uncle Esmond and shared in the grief of the Bilbrey Family who said goodbye to their lovely Donna Marie.  My heart ached when my great nephew was born needing a very scary surgery.  My heart sings as I think of how beautifully he did and the years of joy that he will bring to this family.

So thank you God for the sunrises and the sunsets and for a summer of days that are memories for a lifetime.

Interesting Geneology

OK all you Ryan's, here's some interesting information that I discovered while I'm in the land of your ancestors. It has been reported that Samuel Hinckley is a common ancestor with Sarah Palin, The Bush Families, and current president Obama. Well he is also your ancestor. Here's how it goes and a couple of links to the documents.

Samuel Hinckley m. Sarah Soole

Susanna Hinckley m. Rev. Joseph Smith

Ichabod Smith m. Hannah Andrews

Thankful Smith m. Joseph Leigh

Ichabod Smith Leigh m. Anne Stout

Isaac Leigh m. Phoebe Sutphin

Samuel Leigh m. Sarah Pittenger

John Lowrie Leigh m. Louisa Catherine Leigh

John Morrell m. Catherine Estella Leigh

Arthur Ryan m. Bertha Morrell

John Ryan m. Dorothy Ryan

SAMUEL HINCKLEY.1 resided in Tenterden, Kent, England; a dissenter; Mr. Otis says, that on Mar. 14, 1634-5, to escape persecution and get out of England he took an oath that he conformed to the order and discipline of the English church; remarking that it was probably qualified by mental reservation; and that the sin consisted in compelling such men to take the oath, rather than in taking it. In March, 1635. Rev. Nathaniel Tilden, who in 1728 had purchased lands in Scituate, Mass., probably with a view for future homes for himself and friends; with Samuel Hinckley, George Lewes, and James Austin of Teuterden, and with other families, making a company of 102, including women, children and servants, sailed from Sandwich, Eng., in the ship Hercules; probably intending to join Rev. John Lathrope, who came to Scituate the previous year; and more than half the passengers of this voyage become inhabitants there. He brought his wife Sarah, and his four oldest children; and immediately after his arrival at Boston he went to Scituate; built a house there, which Mr. Lothrop calls No. 19; three of his fellow passengers also built a house there in 1635. viz.: William Hatch, No. 17, George Lewis, No. 18, and Nathaniel Tilden, No. 20. The street on which they built was called Kent street. He resided there until july 1640; and removed to Barnstable; bought land there of Rev. Joseph Hull, and had trouble about the title. The location of his home lot is well known. It was bounded on the west by Coggin's Pond and the land of James Hamlin;1 from which it is today separated by an ancient stone fence; and joined the land of his son, Gov. Thomas Hinckley on the south. The present County road passes south of this place. Near the pond, according to tradition he built his one story dwelling, with a thatched roof. He was one of the first that settled at West Barnstable, and owned the farm there occupied in 1862 by Levi L. Goodspeed. e known as the Otis farm. f Suckonesset, (Falmouth, MA) 1661. His 1st wife d. Ang. 18, 1656; m. 2d, Dec. 15, 1657, Bridget, widow of Robert Bodfish, of Sandwich, Mass. Mr. Otis remarks, that he never knew a Hinckley who was dishonest, lazy, or imprudent. Samuel Hinckley was not distinguished; but his name frequently appears on the Barnstable records as juror, surveyor of highways, etc. As a church member he does not appear intolerant, but from the fact that he was twice indicted forentertaining strangers--Quakers.--indicates that he was a liberal man. He d. Oct. 31, 1662; will Oct. 8, 1662.

http://www.suite101.com/content/how-obama-bush-and-palin-are-related-a124832

Todd and Luba engagement video

My son Todd and his fiance Luba Grigoryev are engaged to be married next May. This was a video taken on the day of their engagement photo shoot. All the photos were taken in their San Marco neighborhood in Jacksonville.

Mean Girls vs Good Citizenship Awards

I was thinking today about my granddaughter who is celebrating her 12th birthday. Initially my thoughts were worries for her and the scary world of the pre-teen. As a young girl one of the biggest suppossed threats is the dreaded "mean girl". Oh, if I could only spare her the trauma of dealing with these hormonal terrors. But sadly, that is impossible. This is a world she will have to navigate on her own. So, I can't protect her, but maybe I can encourage her to see past the nastiness.

As I was reflecting on my past childhood run-ins, I have the advantage of time and have been witness to some of the outcomes. I now know that the "mean girl's" lives have been mostly filled with chaos and disappointments. I believe that the ability to resist "meanness" will spare you from the heartbreaks suffered by the "mean" crowd. True love, professional success, and lifelong friendships will be the rewards of kindness. Ephesians 5:2 says And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. Life will be more stable, secure, and happy because you show his love and goodness.

Sweet grandbaby, last week we were all so proud as we watched you receive your 6th grade citizenship award. Please look behind the act of the "mean girl", love her, pray for her, and don't try to be her or a part of her world. She has chosen a path that won't lead to happiness. You are lovely, kind, and generous, and good things are in store for you.

Expecting Seda

Desiree

Photo Shoot with Desiree July 2009. What a great visit we had this summer. It always feels as if our daughter is coming home. Such a blessing that she has been added to this family.

Caro

Caro, A lovely young woman from Germany. She accompanied Desiree to visit us for 3 weeks. I asked Desiree if I could photograph them and we had a great time. This shot is my favorite of Caro. The camera loves this beautiful girl!

Family Photo Shoot July 2009

It was my privilege to take these family photos of Jeff's brother Hugh, his wife Cindi, and their newly adopted son Chris. He is such a sweet kid and a true blessing for this family. We were so happy to have them visit with us and are thankful for the bond with our nephew.

Hugh and Cindi stylized photo

Sharon Kiser Headshots

These are headshots that I took of my friend and neighbor Sharon Kiser. Sharon is an author, speaker, and nationally sydicated radio personality. I really enjoyed the process and am planning to solicit photography and digital artistry projects.

Happy 5th Anniversary Scott and Amanda

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Party 10

Kayla 10

Summers 08

Summer in Kentuck 08

Creature of Habit

Don't forget to remember me

All the pretty little ponies

With Love to my Husband

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Sledding

When God Created You

Sunshine

Healed by Nicole Nordeman

Lyrics:

Oh, We stutter and we stammer till You save us
A symphony of chaos till You play us
Phrases on the pages of unknown'Til

You read us into poetry and prose
We are kept and we are captive till You free us
Vaguely unimagined 'til You dream us
Aimlessly unguided 'til You lead us home

CHORUS:

By Your voice we speak
By Your strength no longer weak
We are no longer weak
And by Your wounds we are healed
And by Your wounds we are healed
Passed over and passed by until you claim us
Orphaned and abandoned 'til you name us
Hidden and disclosed 'til you expose you hearts

CHORUS:

By your death we live
It is by your gift that we might give
That we might give
And by your wounds we are healed
And by your wounds we are healed
What kind of love would take your

shame and spill his blood for you
Save us by His wounds
By your wounds, we are healed
By your wounds, we are healed
What kind of love
By your wounds, we are healed
Tell me what kind of love is this
By your wounds, we are healed.

Being Thoughtful

Taylor Rae

Conor and Brother March 2009

Kayla December 2008

The best dreams happen when you’re awake.

Cherie Gilderbloom

You might be a floridian if. . . .

You might be a Floridian if...
"Down South" means Key West
"Panhandling" means going to Pensacola.
You think no-one over 70 should be allowed to drive.
Flip-flops are everyday wear.Shoes are for business meetings and church.
No, wait, flip flops are good for church too
Socks are only for bowling
Orange juice from concentrate makes you vomit
Tap water makes you vomit
Sweet tea can be served at any meal.
An alligator once walked through your neighborhood.
You smirk when a game show's "Grand Prize" is a trip to Florida.
You measure distance in minutes.
You have a drawer full of bathing suits, and one sweatshirt.
You get annoyed at the tourists who feed seagulls.
You never use an umbrella because you know the rain will be over in five minutes
All the local festivals are named after a fruit.
A mountain is any hill 100 feet above sea level.
A good parking place has nothing to do with distance from the store, but everything to do with shade.
Your winter coat is made of denim
You can tell the difference between fire ant bites and mosquito bites
You're younger than thirty but some of your friends are over 65
You know the four seasons really are: almost summer, summer,not summer but really hot, and Christmas.
It's not "pop." It's "soda" or "coke."
Anything under 70 is chilly.
You've hosted a hurricane party.
You go to a theme park for an afternoon, and know when to get on the best rides.
You pass on the right and honk at the elderly.
You understand the futility of exterminating cockroaches.
You can pronounce Okeechobee, Kissimmee, Withlacoochee, Okahumpka and Loxahatchee.
You understand why it's better to have a friend with a boat than have a boat yourself.
You've driven through Yeehaw Junction.
Bumper stickers on the pickup in front of you include various fish, the NRA and a confederate flag.
You were 8 before you realized they made houses without pools.
You were 12 when you first met someone who couldn't swim.
You've worn shorts and used the A/C on Christmas.
You know what the "stingray shuffle" is and why it's important!
You could swim before you could read
You have to drive north to get to The South
New ifs...You know that no other grocery store can compare to Publix.
Every other house had blue roofs in 2004-2005
You’ve gotten out of school early on Halloween to trick or treat before it got dark
You know that anything under a Category 3 just isn't worth waking up for.
You dread lovebug season.
You are on a first name basis with the Hurricane list. They aren't Hurricane Charley, Hurricane Frances...but Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.
You know what a snowbird is and you hate them.
You know why flamingos are pink.
You think a six-foot alligator is actually pretty average.
You were twelve before you ever saw snow or you still haven't.
Tornadoes/Tornado warnings don't scare you, and you laugh when your friends from outside of Florida get scared by lightning.

patrick video excerpt

http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=baxter+troutman&init=q&sid=fe4e93e66efac9016b1479a681289778#/video/video.php?v=27936628782&oid=2209791915