tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4451275305462175892023-11-16T05:53:08.346-05:00The Country Diary of a Southern LadyA look into the ordinary life of someone who loves nature and the God who created it all.Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.comBlogger200125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-77054560704853901692016-05-18T08:09:00.001-04:002016-05-18T08:09:50.435-04:00Over the Rainbow (Cover) by Carson Hill<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0xieoRvlmLI" width="480"></iframe>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-83478619576889664282014-06-08T16:14:00.000-04:002014-06-08T16:14:02.092-04:00Checking InLately my girls have been asking me why I have stopped blogging. To be honest, I could give you all kinds of excuses. I think I'll just skip all of the excuses and just give you a little update on what has been going on in our neck of the woods lately.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YjSJUnjcfqMHCUpNySC9GeJz3ghd5sRzX_JHLU_O0Qjw5UAueayvCyOdJh9Y3EmfKNWCaEz3UwxUsDReEDMX_GSUB-Sep84N5t342DInXjVNLV6jYr06fepN6h7FRqjoYV9meAqDDwM/s1600/IMG_5208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YjSJUnjcfqMHCUpNySC9GeJz3ghd5sRzX_JHLU_O0Qjw5UAueayvCyOdJh9Y3EmfKNWCaEz3UwxUsDReEDMX_GSUB-Sep84N5t342DInXjVNLV6jYr06fepN6h7FRqjoYV9meAqDDwM/s320/IMG_5208.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIQrtsOTtxRDyc1yHgMljI4xM2gJStAd9hbZpvsxg_mFdjcSmTpVFTfDkdlvmifavgNiAv-e6Bvc1x_SgWT9eCoUPqdvKq74MczrEPuSuJt3Eb1uwh57hZN8VlwgWMr2XKhryYD2UKRU/s1600/IMG_5213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivIQrtsOTtxRDyc1yHgMljI4xM2gJStAd9hbZpvsxg_mFdjcSmTpVFTfDkdlvmifavgNiAv-e6Bvc1x_SgWT9eCoUPqdvKq74MczrEPuSuJt3Eb1uwh57hZN8VlwgWMr2XKhryYD2UKRU/s320/IMG_5213.jpg" /></a></div>I been doing some home organizing. (Out of necessity since our closet floor rotted due to condensation from a closed air vent.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Q0SuXaGOUoyboN6CiSFfz-t_ddBOneySIELZmlC44BRBWbTtsun0DW92EYfoTkEg3xVqFiPr9jeClDrDSJ5GoNrk3KlP3wbaRRff9hbsSMfZEYOCn9rmF_92BxVbRZLd-v_kNONamw/s1600/Carson+in+parade+WCCB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Q0SuXaGOUoyboN6CiSFfz-t_ddBOneySIELZmlC44BRBWbTtsun0DW92EYfoTkEg3xVqFiPr9jeClDrDSJ5GoNrk3KlP3wbaRRff9hbsSMfZEYOCn9rmF_92BxVbRZLd-v_kNONamw/s320/Carson+in+parade+WCCB.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBGm94fUo6Ba6LbNnM3dT5aDWJ4DBzry6cL9mXA5RWRj_jO5Dcjbh6GdCpgFDKSeRGCtwlVaoLMzCapviJH_LkEtp9eo74RBfrinqbzk60psRqReUwOhspLLgeNKJXdQBTMY12PzrkOQ/s1600/Carson+in+Parade+2+WCCB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBGm94fUo6Ba6LbNnM3dT5aDWJ4DBzry6cL9mXA5RWRj_jO5Dcjbh6GdCpgFDKSeRGCtwlVaoLMzCapviJH_LkEtp9eo74RBfrinqbzk60psRqReUwOhspLLgeNKJXdQBTMY12PzrkOQ/s320/Carson+in+Parade+2+WCCB.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31ZpCpIO4OBD4uhNBM3gtw0CdXsmckQDlxlOB_eEstoY0t_H8IGPwks_M-zuElCZ_O-wuj-086f_0gHssQNqTA-KhbhGOrYbQuUBN0uv0bvF6JlsAWEWbc1CVSO3o2dXgrfXlAqE6iEA/s1600/IMG_4579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh31ZpCpIO4OBD4uhNBM3gtw0CdXsmckQDlxlOB_eEstoY0t_H8IGPwks_M-zuElCZ_O-wuj-086f_0gHssQNqTA-KhbhGOrYbQuUBN0uv0bvF6JlsAWEWbc1CVSO3o2dXgrfXlAqE6iEA/s320/IMG_4579.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCyh3SXzfl3jYtSnp7-QesDgVFu4ihqElisx89aFKnylQpm1WDFioK-RB_qAZRdAgOtF7Xel_6T26Mr90Pl6NbEI1rJGzTg8WFraqqLAvi-4F0lX3nK12iRGCvBJ8irvIzUgHsBG7L70/s1600/IMG_5077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCyh3SXzfl3jYtSnp7-QesDgVFu4ihqElisx89aFKnylQpm1WDFioK-RB_qAZRdAgOtF7Xel_6T26Mr90Pl6NbEI1rJGzTg8WFraqqLAvi-4F0lX3nK12iRGCvBJ8irvIzUgHsBG7L70/s320/IMG_5077.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtpZ5Ye66QKqpfLQHcxdJmYkjDfKInNZ27L3M5esfXDoaxFQYXMGl9kwtFhlAvONirgxoq9GsbXZgZfOFLSetdM5dfLQqLMgog0RCokBMJcgfMo6ftwG1dUAB9dr6qVvdgzaWQjBbLuo/s1600/Carolina+Camera+Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtpZ5Ye66QKqpfLQHcxdJmYkjDfKInNZ27L3M5esfXDoaxFQYXMGl9kwtFhlAvONirgxoq9GsbXZgZfOFLSetdM5dfLQqLMgog0RCokBMJcgfMo6ftwG1dUAB9dr6qVvdgzaWQjBbLuo/s320/Carolina+Camera+Pic.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHYxLyp7jUJ4NTIlwdoNQk17w2dIwlhqb_CyEdHaoDGHotjL1NnrwiwqQfUJXBOhRooWI_qczqf8ZS6AGCDdpNs61IYp_dsNKsfgI-jaW0HTHQb3RYaXvKzFQFbFZKY82B81gSX6bOmk/s1600/Band+Picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHYxLyp7jUJ4NTIlwdoNQk17w2dIwlhqb_CyEdHaoDGHotjL1NnrwiwqQfUJXBOhRooWI_qczqf8ZS6AGCDdpNs61IYp_dsNKsfgI-jaW0HTHQb3RYaXvKzFQFbFZKY82B81gSX6bOmk/s320/Band+Picture.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Carson has had a lot of shows, radio interviews, and TV appearances. (That keeps me super busy!)<br />
<br />
You can read about it in her blog <a href="http://secretsofasongwriter.blogspot.com">Secrets of a Songwriter</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxtIAZRlaByP_9FWlr_-Pc0lRcl7jScdMT0BPpTHDAD-e1fCf9swOIky-pHhi_-L8nGscPu-R6lERJCUACcv87b16RgpByqVfy48EE9LoHv3K_QyD6vuO8pByXhQ1q4s7n7cnpK4m66k/s1600/IMG_4292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxtIAZRlaByP_9FWlr_-Pc0lRcl7jScdMT0BPpTHDAD-e1fCf9swOIky-pHhi_-L8nGscPu-R6lERJCUACcv87b16RgpByqVfy48EE9LoHv3K_QyD6vuO8pByXhQ1q4s7n7cnpK4m66k/s320/IMG_4292.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeSiADiMUAnySX9Pqcf1hXs480gkKEsWlnqxEuEdrc34OjEMnnmw2CahMH144aGmZdiQMLjM9305WgB4kKPnge6Db3sDYHo7Mj9wkeqonxcMYY0tCOItjsDtzjs7jaHGtj7S0uQX41kg/s1600/IMG_4382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeSiADiMUAnySX9Pqcf1hXs480gkKEsWlnqxEuEdrc34OjEMnnmw2CahMH144aGmZdiQMLjM9305WgB4kKPnge6Db3sDYHo7Mj9wkeqonxcMYY0tCOItjsDtzjs7jaHGtj7S0uQX41kg/s320/IMG_4382.jpg" /></a></div><br />
My oldest daughter, Catie, recently left to study in Berlin this summer. (I miss her terribly.) <br />
You can read about her adventures in her blog <a href="http://tarheelinberlin.blogspot.com">Wide-eyed Wanderlust: A Tarheel in Berlin.</a><br />
<br />
As you can see, there is never a dull moment in our household. I am hoping to pick up my camera a little more often and get this blog up and running again. I hope you will join me! Until then...God Bless! -Carla<br />
Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-23004036195951225132014-04-24T14:43:00.001-04:002014-04-24T14:43:37.255-04:00Carolina Camera - Carson Hill<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PqW_BtrAals" width="459"></iframe><br />
<br />
So this is taking up our time these days...Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-18511877673316962832012-10-05T10:39:00.000-04:002012-10-05T13:41:53.211-04:00LighthousesI just love lighthouses, don't you? When I was in college I spent one summer working at a camp on Oak Island. I spent every night of that summer in a room in an old building that served as the barracks for Ft. Caswell, a fort dating back to the Civil War. The warm ocean breeze lulled me to sleep every night, as did the constant flashing of the Oak Island Lighthouse. With four flashes followed by six seconds of darkness, its consistency became a rather soothing presence in an otherwise dark room.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfzh2lZ4-w5NC6SgVPSMANyE-1ckjllrEG_2r4GRjtmeJMpSgH26mgdhA94lWGFJSWGCXnJI5AjzdsvR6pNPFCzYRE62VSrGQ5ta2pW2Arpo5e9vESjrIUVN0IhM7EIr7Uf1bEE6jt-Y/s1600/DSC_0577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfzh2lZ4-w5NC6SgVPSMANyE-1ckjllrEG_2r4GRjtmeJMpSgH26mgdhA94lWGFJSWGCXnJI5AjzdsvR6pNPFCzYRE62VSrGQ5ta2pW2Arpo5e9vESjrIUVN0IhM7EIr7Uf1bEE6jt-Y/s400/DSC_0577.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Since 1958 this lighthouse has been guiding ships safely through the night off the shores of North Carolina.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCcERvirA0sevS5ELjmA6sG53o2pFkcfj0rWVBVIPxxZjtJuN0gWG3pl4QFNQ0vaVXlV5iuaHHCcXeVkhItX5_sIE0PDRkOxzJ30PtcD9JAjq_MX1mGewl2w4g1TD7tXt4Xda4CDT-fY/s1600/DSC_0558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCcERvirA0sevS5ELjmA6sG53o2pFkcfj0rWVBVIPxxZjtJuN0gWG3pl4QFNQ0vaVXlV5iuaHHCcXeVkhItX5_sIE0PDRkOxzJ30PtcD9JAjq_MX1mGewl2w4g1TD7tXt4Xda4CDT-fY/s400/DSC_0558.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Even though I have been vacationing on Oak Island for over 20 years, I had never climbed to the top of the lighthouse until this summer. My lovely daughter, Catie, volunteered as a tour guide while working a summer job as a waitress on the island. This gave me the perfect excuse to visit. (Isn't she one of the prettiest guides you have ever seen?)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FXIlKECKx2IN053qkVLqRQoNZBxm81NQl3ZQziYpuGYwkkzbZkPPVpRlV7R-Gtw1-K32_bvAGr66wqxe0Nw6w8Im8_nKFLFFXEaw_kLVm90KSN3lnLOXWxllDHB3794UliLK1zdKzRo/s1600/DSC_0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FXIlKECKx2IN053qkVLqRQoNZBxm81NQl3ZQziYpuGYwkkzbZkPPVpRlV7R-Gtw1-K32_bvAGr66wqxe0Nw6w8Im8_nKFLFFXEaw_kLVm90KSN3lnLOXWxllDHB3794UliLK1zdKzRo/s400/DSC_0452.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
The climb to the top was not an easy one. The lighthouse has 131 ship's ladder steps making the trip to the top quite laborious. However, the view at the end of the journey is well worth the labor.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgNogueMpbKe2zlY5KrGd19yp-H8Rc35eDXQcBug2IAnkNWDHScC7-_bRtXFEZJFS-_rwlBScVhBeFxoFiwEpsE7YWTPah-6RHilq7DRuM4vWnuSF5UF-IQseziwfdKJ5e0XFiFhIbls/s1600/DSC_0457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgNogueMpbKe2zlY5KrGd19yp-H8Rc35eDXQcBug2IAnkNWDHScC7-_bRtXFEZJFS-_rwlBScVhBeFxoFiwEpsE7YWTPah-6RHilq7DRuM4vWnuSF5UF-IQseziwfdKJ5e0XFiFhIbls/s400/DSC_0457.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
It was a little overcast on the day that I visited, however, Catie said that on a clear day one could see all the way to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavYJt0cyhhQoIy3jD-Q31SNRdOMBeoLKC2HkBTm1sGKp5dsLALjGfq5K0P2pjocUyEAGaGTuR8gwlAGKI_y_5HSS-INOdfJ0Ol_C2UG-ht5dyZCXnUhnSFuKGIGvfFwATGPxvfTx0A_g/s1600/DSC_0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavYJt0cyhhQoIy3jD-Q31SNRdOMBeoLKC2HkBTm1sGKp5dsLALjGfq5K0P2pjocUyEAGaGTuR8gwlAGKI_y_5HSS-INOdfJ0Ol_C2UG-ht5dyZCXnUhnSFuKGIGvfFwATGPxvfTx0A_g/s400/DSC_0503.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Although the view of the vast ocean is amazing; I love the view of the intercoastal waterway and the marsh surrounding it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ5QrX3M1k0k_Kp6E7EE5Ek8_8-oXB0o9upEyUXiSoBv3q_lfTKMz0qvDGouHkkyx7GKb-asp3oKUfIj6QlPpLoqRY8w1Vxe_KmJbeGradxUp8QcgdSeZfxJaNwrZxdSSnopN5jPZUAQ/s1600/DSC_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="266" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ5QrX3M1k0k_Kp6E7EE5Ek8_8-oXB0o9upEyUXiSoBv3q_lfTKMz0qvDGouHkkyx7GKb-asp3oKUfIj6QlPpLoqRY8w1Vxe_KmJbeGradxUp8QcgdSeZfxJaNwrZxdSSnopN5jPZUAQ/s400/DSC_0537.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
After my visit to the lighthouse I was thinking about why I am so drawn to this structure. It finally dawned on me that, in a world where nothing ever stays the same, this lighthouse continues to give the same guidance that it has for many years. The same consistent four flashes and six second darkness that eased me to sleep every night over twenty years ago still continues today. Thankfully, I serve a God who is consistent in a world that is continuously changing.<br />
<br />
<br />
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8<br />
<br />
Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-64871397080496548162012-08-23T11:22:00.001-04:002012-10-19T14:21:00.854-04:00Carson's New Blog!Wow! I have<blockquote></blockquote> noticed that I am doing good to get one post a month published lately. With Carson's busy music schedule this summmer we have not had much down time. Hopefully, with Catie back at Chapel Hill and Carson starting school, I will have a little more time to connect with you all again. I also hope to get back into my garden and landscape and start some fall projects that I will be sharing with you.I do have a little favor to ask of you all. Carson is starting a blog to talk about the journey that she is on with her music. She will be posting about special things that are happening with her like studio time, radio interviews, performances, and the ups and downs of trying to have a career in music. She really needs some followers to encourage her in this journey. Would you be kind enough to check it out and follow her if you are interested? I know a lot of my followers are gardeners and foodies and such, but she would love to have you. If you know of any young people who are interested in a blog of this nature, would you please tell them about her! Thanks so much! <a href="http://carsonhill.blogspot.com/2012/08/for-starters.html">Carson's Music Blog</a>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-51745200175712750002012-07-10T09:09:00.001-04:002012-07-10T09:09:49.335-04:00Die In Your Arms by Justin Bieber (cover)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IXQF5IwurXU?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
<br />
Hello there! It's been a while. I hope you guys are still out there. I just wanted to give you a little update on what's going on out here in the country. Carson and I have taken up another hobby...video production...as if we needed anything else to keep us busy. Actually, she is trying to improve her youtube channel a bit and I've been enlisted to help! I personally think that if this music thing doesn't work out, she may have a career in production. What do you think??Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-5710621729846330752012-06-22T15:10:00.001-04:002012-06-22T15:17:41.296-04:00Sunrise!Lately I've been seeing a lot of sunrises! I just thought I would share a few with you. <div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXl2sJbCUwnGNow7GvVA1PEuEgigzoPuJfo483Fcvys157X78nhATQFnEhwC1Ej_FOSTgos2CJPwSuc9RUlEXw5zDEt32x2mv0xlyvyt9_lcV95jaONZg3ipEYQ4m-D6Vzg3hq15Foqv4/s640/blogger-image-415997360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXl2sJbCUwnGNow7GvVA1PEuEgigzoPuJfo483Fcvys157X78nhATQFnEhwC1Ej_FOSTgos2CJPwSuc9RUlEXw5zDEt32x2mv0xlyvyt9_lcV95jaONZg3ipEYQ4m-D6Vzg3hq15Foqv4/s640/blogger-image-415997360.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSXv8TY94JuHTqgtO3y7Cs6O43JTEtCUBjBVBaqKmMgozpSVpMzPrICq9gC8SdwVmJIkvqx4lNJ0B-sFKaC8ToCBPE_NUodXacrDdSi19AyQtHfPOJERNfzDmKlyvUrqn0ynTKz9-vF8/s640/blogger-image-807337982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSXv8TY94JuHTqgtO3y7Cs6O43JTEtCUBjBVBaqKmMgozpSVpMzPrICq9gC8SdwVmJIkvqx4lNJ0B-sFKaC8ToCBPE_NUodXacrDdSi19AyQtHfPOJERNfzDmKlyvUrqn0ynTKz9-vF8/s640/blogger-image-807337982.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TFgYruv47alLSbY7mvwClZYXjslvt8CuzkoN3S-aq7PeRvJhN4AfNDfkPvReoqtNnI5IpE3-U1p9RpmTj5ZUe3QniURU-O_7cN1yU2BEJNDNx1oXyeIgRPoi2wg6lYcbxc3zxqmBx14/s640/blogger-image-2023064271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0TFgYruv47alLSbY7mvwClZYXjslvt8CuzkoN3S-aq7PeRvJhN4AfNDfkPvReoqtNnI5IpE3-U1p9RpmTj5ZUe3QniURU-O_7cN1yU2BEJNDNx1oXyeIgRPoi2wg6lYcbxc3zxqmBx14/s640/blogger-image-2023064271.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBCkxukyyJmJS6XbRur2ArKSpTsONbQV9VR_U46qvGbdWQOq19IylDXBspEvdZ2E2QrRVLch09x0c9FL9CkddMi875DCnbJJWTLDXZecL_hpAPMg0jys7kddoIp8AEB5vgB-ZXk5DXbI/s640/blogger-image-954586467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBCkxukyyJmJS6XbRur2ArKSpTsONbQV9VR_U46qvGbdWQOq19IylDXBspEvdZ2E2QrRVLch09x0c9FL9CkddMi875DCnbJJWTLDXZecL_hpAPMg0jys7kddoIp8AEB5vgB-ZXk5DXbI/s640/blogger-image-954586467.jpg" /></a></div>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-52072384491503317092012-06-11T10:03:00.000-04:002012-06-11T10:03:20.292-04:00For the Love of HydrangeasStop and smell the roses...or hydrangeas! In the middle of this crazy, busy life that I am living, nothing can make me stop quicker than a beautiful bush full of hydrangeas. I have loved this particular flower since I was a little girl. In fact, I think this is the first flower that I remember noticing as a child. There was an old abandoned house on our property that we used for a clubhouse. I still remember the old walls that were made of boards, the large cracked window in the front, and the door that we tied shut with a piece of twine. However, the best feature of this house appeared in June when the stick-looking bush outside turned into a green pillow covered with beautiful blue flowers. Although that bush has been gone for sometime now, my mom has a huge bush grown from a cutting of it. I am so glad that she thought to do that several years ago.
Yesterday, I hosted a bridal shower in my home using hydrangeas from that very bush in my mom's yard.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY4eKbNAa9ylTmRNGcbVJi1PdwSp5dGb-SQs9XijOJycGUEgh-De6Dbx4JxEsp5gDeQz4kNa6Z-MUl1vsK8m8HQUhA7TfE9xIbs-MZB5o6h2My_ZAjkp-DWhrAzbAn4tz3jenoOeVPGe0/s1600/hydrangea+door.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY4eKbNAa9ylTmRNGcbVJi1PdwSp5dGb-SQs9XijOJycGUEgh-De6Dbx4JxEsp5gDeQz4kNa6Z-MUl1vsK8m8HQUhA7TfE9xIbs-MZB5o6h2My_ZAjkp-DWhrAzbAn4tz3jenoOeVPGe0/s400/hydrangea+door.JPG" /></a>
I don't think any other flower could have been more beautiful.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4U-oakUyLD3wcjdoL9Oog-tpJpeGjiFC3KBi6cMf2lssdb8hOrBRLmtAPGhJU4Iz1hdZq-Q3tl3MC-hih3AqljikkqRPcY9nlxnNn86u_7e-mIWotsvcWqyYK_kGvU20x_z_qwq0WoQA/s1600/hydrangea+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4U-oakUyLD3wcjdoL9Oog-tpJpeGjiFC3KBi6cMf2lssdb8hOrBRLmtAPGhJU4Iz1hdZq-Q3tl3MC-hih3AqljikkqRPcY9nlxnNn86u_7e-mIWotsvcWqyYK_kGvU20x_z_qwq0WoQA/s400/hydrangea+table.JPG" /></a>
Only these beautiful, blue, billowy blooms can slow me down long enough to stop and realize how my busyness has kept me from the thing I most enjoy...blogging with my friends.
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-QCjc9UyhCzDdJ0GTsLwxHka1XMG3FBIEbzAqfGooQxb_Hz_Ucg0VyZU94b8BbJcnJHyHldOfB-Fduv_ammwA-4KtwFskBTLGYl1KodKmwp_TzUPD8D0B_bVVFa_RH8bSMnfNQt6YQ8/s1600/hydrangea+close+up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-QCjc9UyhCzDdJ0GTsLwxHka1XMG3FBIEbzAqfGooQxb_Hz_Ucg0VyZU94b8BbJcnJHyHldOfB-Fduv_ammwA-4KtwFskBTLGYl1KodKmwp_TzUPD8D0B_bVVFa_RH8bSMnfNQt6YQ8/s400/hydrangea+close+up.JPG" /></a>
I have missed you all so much. I hope this post finds you and your families healthy, happy, and having a wonderful summer!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-69473680231977272462012-04-11T22:58:00.003-04:002012-04-11T23:55:04.050-04:00Carolina In My Mind James Taylor (Cover by Carson Hill)Oh my, where do I start. I have missed blogging so much. I have been really busy with my girls. Catie is finishing up her freshman year at UNC-Chapel Hill and Carson has been busy with homeschooling and trying to pursue a music career. We just got back from Nashville for a few days where we met with people in the music business and got a good feeling for where Carson needs to go with her music. Catie is getting ready to finish up her first year of college and we are so excited for her. I thought when my kids were little that life was busy. Never did I imagine how busy it could get! I still love every minute of my country life, however it has been put on hold for a while. I must help my girls follow their dreams! Life will be back to normal one day. Until then, I will try my best to keep up with what is going on with my blogging friends. Please know that I haven't forgotten you...I am trying to keep up with everything you are doing. I just may not comment on what I see. I love you all dearly! Please keep us in your prayers as we try to glorify God with our lives! Enjoy a little Carolina music from the Hills!<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/g8LI0Pt40MA?fs=1" width="459"></iframe>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-83332713613920620202012-02-29T09:31:00.001-05:002012-02-29T09:35:03.384-05:00Temporarily InterruptedMy quiet country life has been temporarly interrupted. My blog posts have been few and far between. I don't know if I am coming or going. If any of you have been wondering where I've been, check out Carson's youtube channel. I think it will speak for me. Anyway, she has just finished recording her third song. She is working so hard. She has been singing anywhere and everywhere. Just this week she did her first presentation to an elementary school audience about the process of writing a song. She made the video to show at the end of her powerpoint for the students to see what it was like to record a song. She edited it herself. Of course this proud mamma really wanted it share it with all of my blogging buddies. Hope you enjoy!<br /><iframe width="459" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/byS4rbY1bJ4?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen=""></iframe>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-77935352253927603762012-02-14T12:54:00.001-05:002012-02-14T12:55:30.480-05:00Happy Valentine's Day!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVOPKWs59-Pkf_zqA_xTWq-MUT9yI5azRxS3up6D7VkvihuRjIhtoCnRZdc897tS51GZv87JSaT2Lunf579k3b-4XppmWHmqcPAaMuAWJHUi_Tf2N8AnC32ylhSsI7MaNrfhYTjHT7QQ/s1600/Chords+Valentine.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVOPKWs59-Pkf_zqA_xTWq-MUT9yI5azRxS3up6D7VkvihuRjIhtoCnRZdc897tS51GZv87JSaT2Lunf579k3b-4XppmWHmqcPAaMuAWJHUi_Tf2N8AnC32ylhSsI7MaNrfhYTjHT7QQ/s400/Chords+Valentine.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709051231840050066" /></a><br />Happy Valentine's Day to all of my blogging buddies!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-10207924095081711542012-02-11T16:36:00.002-05:002012-02-11T16:39:56.153-05:00Morning Sunrise (Repost from February 2010)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnnsDk7B6rG_dzywjkpDKKY5lHfJenmoSM_N1Ms_gWXmVgpo8lZhfmweY0KsHLbfQuyQR08QGCR2ykomI5PRYiJHyrpES-s5pXVBsqTm2jU_oFB1jp_HXIoRaHdBCR6YXRbNBS9PlGsaF/s1600-h/Nature+pictures+077.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnnsDk7B6rG_dzywjkpDKKY5lHfJenmoSM_N1Ms_gWXmVgpo8lZhfmweY0KsHLbfQuyQR08QGCR2ykomI5PRYiJHyrpES-s5pXVBsqTm2jU_oFB1jp_HXIoRaHdBCR6YXRbNBS9PlGsaF/s320/Nature+pictures+077.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433679812132523394" /></a><br /><em>"Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below, Praise Him above ye Heavenly Host, Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."</em> Doxology<br /><br />I woke up this morning to a dreary, rainy day. I really love rain most of the time, however, cold, winter rains can sometimes be depressing. Days like this are perfect for counting my blessings. Without the rains of February, there would be no flowers of spring. I am thankful that God has given me so many blessings in life; my family (I love my family), my friends, and simple pleasures to enjoy.<br /><br />One of the simple pleasures I enjoy on most days is my Morning Sunrise. I'm quite sure this name has been used before, it probably is not original. A couple of years ago I purchased myself an inexpensive juicer from Walmart, and since then I have been making my own mixed juices every morning. This one is my favorites: I juice one orange, one grapefruit, and add a splash of pomegranate juice. I then strain the pulp simply because I am not fond of it. Yummy! It is like drinking the morning sunrise, hence the name. This can add sunshine to any day.<br /><br />I think everyone needs to find pleasure in the simple joys of life. On dreary, rainy, winter days those joys can brighten any heart.Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-77968542975451593352012-02-09T06:56:00.004-05:002012-02-09T07:47:31.169-05:00Winter Pick-Me-UpsNothing beats the winter blues as much as flowers. Have you ever noticed how a simple vase of flowers can brighten any room? I am so thankful that there are blooms that emerge in late winter to remind us that spring is coming.<br /><br />The winter daphne not only looks beautiful this time of year...its scent is heavenly. My husband described it perfectly the other day. He said that it smelled like Fruit Loops. I have to agree. The sweet scent of this shrub does remind me of the many bowls of Fruit Loops that I ate as a child. I get to enjoy this scent everytime I walk into my front yard. It is planted right beside the front porch steps for visitors to enjoy as they pass by. I also cut some of these and bring them in for their beauty and lovely scent.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ooRUzDqamTPaOCL8AGgLRsbHFhveFVgDMx4509x-4rbWNdFKoahAeRVVhIRcBLQgDLG9AXMQLgOtb32R33u8IIn_ZmQNPv4O-SKm6NUH6Q9kfWsTIPFyyCvYFPxnS2BGVwkd2UB05xI/s1600/023.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ooRUzDqamTPaOCL8AGgLRsbHFhveFVgDMx4509x-4rbWNdFKoahAeRVVhIRcBLQgDLG9AXMQLgOtb32R33u8IIn_ZmQNPv4O-SKm6NUH6Q9kfWsTIPFyyCvYFPxnS2BGVwkd2UB05xI/s400/023.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707105857070489762" /></a><br />My hellebores are beautiful outside against the dull winter landscape, as well as, grouped together in a vase to brighten any room in the house.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW6z7mTneFALKhhrMuiikBKk7jl3YzxOGbsyvqrK_QnKI_ZTkearqh0mHuRQHNkovfelH4Xopg1B0F90Ed8XMmyk3XSk3LbCoVpmRO52P0SqsYXAtkhMQTtYHPtnDctzr4hhJl0FmGQ8/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW6z7mTneFALKhhrMuiikBKk7jl3YzxOGbsyvqrK_QnKI_ZTkearqh0mHuRQHNkovfelH4Xopg1B0F90Ed8XMmyk3XSk3LbCoVpmRO52P0SqsYXAtkhMQTtYHPtnDctzr4hhJl0FmGQ8/s400/013.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707105848326888978" /></a><br />Their blooms will not last quite as long as some cut flowers, but for several days one can enjoy their beauty.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoBYrr_w6lOK_w-9UomRpOAmud69v06d5jrwDUMCMLnlYnWYhsabXVUfaf6uBz60SwMnZZHq1rEgFUNjTKEXZ6ITzStuvVBBW3KNBO1E0EOstFTma7Vob0fRky5_3A_sMrx7VxjRpNpo/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoBYrr_w6lOK_w-9UomRpOAmud69v06d5jrwDUMCMLnlYnWYhsabXVUfaf6uBz60SwMnZZHq1rEgFUNjTKEXZ6ITzStuvVBBW3KNBO1E0EOstFTma7Vob0fRky5_3A_sMrx7VxjRpNpo/s400/005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707105839848168978" /></a><br /><br />I am so thankful for these little winter pick-me-ups. What are some of the pick-me-ups that you enjoy during the winter months?Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-69571616474679356402012-02-01T10:41:00.006-05:002012-02-01T17:51:15.070-05:00Warm WinterOn the news last night I heard the weatherman say that this was the warmest January in over seventy years. I believe it! Around here it looks like spring has sprung. Although I am perfectly content with the warmer winter, I sure hope that my plants will not suffer from the early blooming. These blooms do not usually show up until March.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfjdUe7oLQjRkyOBJbMJrsjgm5cNey2S02yYfVdqpD3qoV-lrpw7-pKKvwBIUp40s_C8wnd9RM23MYTJ4fhhejx4JfYktJbG-DOt-ZWgsHn-5C4ngE4SsI4meGCpXSbwtwty9i7HvxHg/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWfjdUe7oLQjRkyOBJbMJrsjgm5cNey2S02yYfVdqpD3qoV-lrpw7-pKKvwBIUp40s_C8wnd9RM23MYTJ4fhhejx4JfYktJbG-DOt-ZWgsHn-5C4ngE4SsI4meGCpXSbwtwty9i7HvxHg/s400/DSC_0084.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704196146852805954" /></a><br />hellebores<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0sChNQPxU3BDPxXJIOsQVyf_uBh9VIH09ZiOScwiJ2BEWqhwFHw_totiAyAoHkKgRdqZnaYpSjHa0KCEwkMa-3NspKuz6kzJ32NSrYsRV-yuRvyEIWuXbxZZHIu8_NbXY72So4IHUgM/s1600/DSC_0093.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0sChNQPxU3BDPxXJIOsQVyf_uBh9VIH09ZiOScwiJ2BEWqhwFHw_totiAyAoHkKgRdqZnaYpSjHa0KCEwkMa-3NspKuz6kzJ32NSrYsRV-yuRvyEIWuXbxZZHIu8_NbXY72So4IHUgM/s400/DSC_0093.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704196142387346466" /></a><br />Yum, I smell Fruit Loops!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTt3urCyLp_R6bznmfF4EclbeB8TSdke9-DFweEGswLvlpdO-r9WzSrUaLkeFsrr9-SxM181wxqRQkw-RLojRKKomenYUBxaLBY1CMvjm_UoiKPswM0row8CTCafD56CsZ4qE3BS3yUQ/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTt3urCyLp_R6bznmfF4EclbeB8TSdke9-DFweEGswLvlpdO-r9WzSrUaLkeFsrr9-SxM181wxqRQkw-RLojRKKomenYUBxaLBY1CMvjm_UoiKPswM0row8CTCafD56CsZ4qE3BS3yUQ/s400/DSC_0040.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704196943598189090" /></a><br />Nope, Chord, it's a winter daphne!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRNwCLZg4Jj5wduRMfgwfqim0RtE4PHCy_BjTgjavhBNJ82FF0PiKLRXzJ5X9v5cdZx4rIHXT3V4J6Oqg245A9lEj4KP8QxcPeXdZZMlL1ksp-za37gLvSVOdtkZwBL9Y5_MJJlIniA0/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRNwCLZg4Jj5wduRMfgwfqim0RtE4PHCy_BjTgjavhBNJ82FF0PiKLRXzJ5X9v5cdZx4rIHXT3V4J6Oqg245A9lEj4KP8QxcPeXdZZMlL1ksp-za37gLvSVOdtkZwBL9Y5_MJJlIniA0/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704196139097536418" /></a><br />Daffodils already?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc2XYKE_cq0QfEgady1yzghENqIW6hrQE2WzRxT-OcAhjHDEAMrDa2Y4XQpqdhnlWTqwljBBLzRSyfDWpa5lvYW39efkrsxeGHhvusRM94WEn31r6nl_SdTpZIz1hU0dspDImHZ1iUej9/s1600/DSC_0114.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc2XYKE_cq0QfEgady1yzghENqIW6hrQE2WzRxT-OcAhjHDEAMrDa2Y4XQpqdhnlWTqwljBBLzRSyfDWpa5lvYW39efkrsxeGHhvusRM94WEn31r6nl_SdTpZIz1hU0dspDImHZ1iUej9/s400/DSC_0114.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704194849760432978" /></a><br />Blooms on my star magnolia???<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6wviHonnoEmZXxmqNK26I5FHdoiCioSqPb2IYCYg_CyXSCpIqco1y7eeJEIG_TPX3lZGegeQLIcEFbnbM-obbUavm24t50y3XV77PoVw-pufrnLT6HeZBfMa5bZNboa-i4HTMc_DERZv/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6wviHonnoEmZXxmqNK26I5FHdoiCioSqPb2IYCYg_CyXSCpIqco1y7eeJEIG_TPX3lZGegeQLIcEFbnbM-obbUavm24t50y3XV77PoVw-pufrnLT6HeZBfMa5bZNboa-i4HTMc_DERZv/s400/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704194845012667234" /></a><br />Unfortunately, the pretty pink blooms are turning brown after a couple of days. :(<br /><br />Well, it looks like winter has been cancelled in North Carolina this year. How is winter treating you in your neck of the woods?Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-33293599412327920232012-01-12T16:35:00.004-05:002012-01-12T17:09:32.747-05:00Kristina at Art AbundantDo you know someone that can brighten your day just by being in their presence? Someone who is joyful and encouraging every time that you see them? I think we all can think of someone who fits this description. When asked these questions, one of the first people who comes to my mind is my friend, Kristina. She attends church with us and teaches Carson (and me) art once a week. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhgjxxOtWIv9fQYVR9M-GhxBNH3G87kCGSP2yxsFZFlakKxVdbBtTCE40E_kl58TT43egoSlEgnhk4xe3Otpz7Vnl5bgpueckDc3LKb7BBBDt_p3l_X51ma8NGAvTUv4__jam-i9XabrW/s1600/Kristina+2"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhgjxxOtWIv9fQYVR9M-GhxBNH3G87kCGSP2yxsFZFlakKxVdbBtTCE40E_kl58TT43egoSlEgnhk4xe3Otpz7Vnl5bgpueckDc3LKb7BBBDt_p3l_X51ma8NGAvTUv4__jam-i9XabrW/s400/Kristina+2" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696862585191441554" /></a><br /><br />She has the most positive personality of anyone that I know. Just spending time with her can make our day brighter. Her love and enthusiasm for art and life is contagious. Recently, I found out that she is a fellow blogger so I thought that I would introduce her to all of my blogging friends. I love the spiritual insight that she brings into her blog through everyday experiences. She is a wife, a mother of two young children, an art teacher, an artist, and a friend. Each of these areas are reflected in her blog <a href="http://artabundant.blogspot.com/">Art Abundant</a>. Please stop by and visit her. I am sure that you will be blessed by her presence in your life just as much as we are.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1fDDtmCPMM1xJWgpn7Kpne2C_d3UKSZqT_hDc-c7zWW3TFoxpLqZc_pftQi513a23QQEbzYOEFjNIkZAHCKLbv1q6VcIkVumG06q8wkFe_satPGmeP5kUPvx0s6y3uU1QBiIBIguG2K4q/s1600/Kristina"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1fDDtmCPMM1xJWgpn7Kpne2C_d3UKSZqT_hDc-c7zWW3TFoxpLqZc_pftQi513a23QQEbzYOEFjNIkZAHCKLbv1q6VcIkVumG06q8wkFe_satPGmeP5kUPvx0s6y3uU1QBiIBIguG2K4q/s400/Kristina" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696862586028061202" /></a><br />I only hope that I bring as much joy to others as Kristina brings to me and Carson.Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-6846829718992001922012-01-08T14:52:00.002-05:002012-01-08T15:04:03.121-05:00Introducing Chord!Just in case some of you have been wondering where I have been for the last couple of weeks...<br /><br />Our lives have been consumed by a sweet little fellow.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCE7EZ8FRODRjzUSRcaoZQ5EZ90uuChumuz7KDOgVXq_vSA1TYI1InMZokDQprs4MgF-c3L3uWkvabuCrjm4jRhb3A6R9RJHdwPz8pttWK8toZBsXL7OI1g-UHf_eJ7wzAOAm0iJqp-9V/s1600/chord+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCE7EZ8FRODRjzUSRcaoZQ5EZ90uuChumuz7KDOgVXq_vSA1TYI1InMZokDQprs4MgF-c3L3uWkvabuCrjm4jRhb3A6R9RJHdwPz8pttWK8toZBsXL7OI1g-UHf_eJ7wzAOAm0iJqp-9V/s400/chord+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695352971787629090" /></a><br /><br />Let me be the first to introduce you to the newest member of our family...Chord!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionWDKwZm_o1IgSHgcqKaOkT8ks7Dvtm6mlLYwSGj6fiD5XMufCbOL4W9lBFdtRQcKI_voxoxbceY2EVr3AxUoZ8BO7oWji9KdNwd4adBOUBYRodzWACzj-mfTKo9aHFrJFGWHHVF1zhMT/s1600/Chord+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionWDKwZm_o1IgSHgcqKaOkT8ks7Dvtm6mlLYwSGj6fiD5XMufCbOL4W9lBFdtRQcKI_voxoxbceY2EVr3AxUoZ8BO7oWji9KdNwd4adBOUBYRodzWACzj-mfTKo9aHFrJFGWHHVF1zhMT/s400/Chord+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695352968767715474" /></a><br /><br />Isn't he a darling? He was Carson's Christmas present. I had forgotten what it is like to have a baby in the house. But this little sweetie is worth every minute of our time! Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and your new year is blessed!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-70876900955064468152011-12-22T16:07:00.005-05:002011-12-22T19:01:09.267-05:00It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSpqqADmkXY7qNmlqD4On8yEe77a1pEXY3XINMOA6ELLbmAzEWis3wFcSze2g3bfWXPn7CrZEElZZbLP_UeWZzc3G_RbNcLY8bfpE2RySiEkAZY0GDFL2zwfbfBEkiN1IRteciCty1xQQ/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+064.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSpqqADmkXY7qNmlqD4On8yEe77a1pEXY3XINMOA6ELLbmAzEWis3wFcSze2g3bfWXPn7CrZEElZZbLP_UeWZzc3G_RbNcLY8bfpE2RySiEkAZY0GDFL2zwfbfBEkiN1IRteciCty1xQQ/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+064.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689102741199279554" /></a><br />However, as we all know, looks can be deceiving.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxIJZf6QQMZ3pJhbStZruSgdkDwwZvCXwTvMn02xCAmm-4O5krvBwKY-msn2-9Ig9tsu8GMf6FQkleVNKy5ngU-PXy7qq2uYVD6BDusRBnHooipQUy_R7a8q2_g1LRTE090O6kxgIXWKy/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+045.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxIJZf6QQMZ3pJhbStZruSgdkDwwZvCXwTvMn02xCAmm-4O5krvBwKY-msn2-9Ig9tsu8GMf6FQkleVNKy5ngU-PXy7qq2uYVD6BDusRBnHooipQUy_R7a8q2_g1LRTE090O6kxgIXWKy/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+045.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689102723494555202" /></a> <br />The halls may be decked...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINHM9ncWKVoaLc4OoRHr-Hsq84qoh01ILXA6_pI__xBOUoku2p-5MS9mlCc_sir8gyqGrTW3_L5WwhAtyYg2E5sIP92htynBZsD2du1Zq1HOC7jS3RjUVvI2WYXUq_aYZZ8H0T1tO8QCd/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+046.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINHM9ncWKVoaLc4OoRHr-Hsq84qoh01ILXA6_pI__xBOUoku2p-5MS9mlCc_sir8gyqGrTW3_L5WwhAtyYg2E5sIP92htynBZsD2du1Zq1HOC7jS3RjUVvI2WYXUq_aYZZ8H0T1tO8QCd/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+046.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689102717997941698" /></a><br />And the reindeer may be ready to fly...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXH-8_yPq6Ntq6pC8tcZg-JjnV7_gkewq9uqDQA2Bcu4Va5rVUn0saQS_5e3mdYAn4V4fZuu6Iks-ic4N7nNs5-ecGF-HSuzEa91OupCig6NFTympI4TDtqVSlwAdQPecGfEa9lnSKatx/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+059.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXH-8_yPq6Ntq6pC8tcZg-JjnV7_gkewq9uqDQA2Bcu4Va5rVUn0saQS_5e3mdYAn4V4fZuu6Iks-ic4N7nNs5-ecGF-HSuzEa91OupCig6NFTympI4TDtqVSlwAdQPecGfEa9lnSKatx/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+059.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689091130007868834" /></a><br />The holly and mistletoe may abound in every nook and cranny...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJynqwXbjMwKNHbT3uKW4ks56bAj-dSUGH8kFG9-WGxP4-pymfYd8_lWLJzfz0An_3URKrCrOEAptKPQPSwyOMlV1kFhGBhJ0LtzFXiXqqkhD5dfyPJjmQVqZWCBownZSDC6fk6sWTkos/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+052.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJynqwXbjMwKNHbT3uKW4ks56bAj-dSUGH8kFG9-WGxP4-pymfYd8_lWLJzfz0An_3URKrCrOEAptKPQPSwyOMlV1kFhGBhJ0LtzFXiXqqkhD5dfyPJjmQVqZWCBownZSDC6fk6sWTkos/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+052.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689091123584237538" /></a><br />Christmas pillows may adorn every bed, chair, and sofa...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYpkYvnhiGb0iRrBsjZAHjyhyphenhyphen4CUTDmxn6NjZB3o-n-EppK-GLDWiv5ZGN1hUkxtEwawN802xDIVtrM7kM6aldeZOsJxI2P5mPp6TyyUv1FnmsMJLvnZUGpJa7qb60h07epVyfAWUf2TO/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+037.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYpkYvnhiGb0iRrBsjZAHjyhyphenhyphen4CUTDmxn6NjZB3o-n-EppK-GLDWiv5ZGN1hUkxtEwawN802xDIVtrM7kM6aldeZOsJxI2P5mPp6TyyUv1FnmsMJLvnZUGpJa7qb60h07epVyfAWUf2TO/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+037.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689091122026678978" /></a><br />The kitchen window...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGha2_zFMpiJBB7SL9ZcfwGyWSB_X210flAGhvD_7May0GQRpt6qPZrgmAChSk3VCZQ1tHZP9z_zeehkNjrT75lh27BDoOUkEw0_a4aW5718G-qJGvJpBYo-gCcNpLWJCzjaU1myUIwdGQ/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+033.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGha2_zFMpiJBB7SL9ZcfwGyWSB_X210flAGhvD_7May0GQRpt6qPZrgmAChSk3VCZQ1tHZP9z_zeehkNjrT75lh27BDoOUkEw0_a4aW5718G-qJGvJpBYo-gCcNpLWJCzjaU1myUIwdGQ/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+033.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689066932006851202" /></a><br />The fireplace mantle...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJsQdRDdFCggJNyGz3ABULQv5nrdJZWRHZnNXfjsyzsuIYp0caCUHXqRacoio6QeaGpPi2eVG0ep9Yb_BY3nFUqIreDKIcLyPGcAzDb120x6rsq3UdZ8dUhW-YVWW3Crqk8YLth70o1y2/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+032.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJsQdRDdFCggJNyGz3ABULQv5nrdJZWRHZnNXfjsyzsuIYp0caCUHXqRacoio6QeaGpPi2eVG0ep9Yb_BY3nFUqIreDKIcLyPGcAzDb120x6rsq3UdZ8dUhW-YVWW3Crqk8YLth70o1y2/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+032.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689066921927724754" /></a><br />And the stockings may be ready...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NCxFOndATAgEOFFEeQf2S1CyLQKOH1c3mpozKcCmlHJCW9lOJAAC3KQAIF79Bz3Yke1aWM6QqzN0eTa_u9vv-W14ZAwUM2iR1GyWoLJcMRQ8oA9l-AyjB9PgHYsF-eN22M2Sk5jaRHPh/s1600/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+024.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NCxFOndATAgEOFFEeQf2S1CyLQKOH1c3mpozKcCmlHJCW9lOJAAC3KQAIF79Bz3Yke1aWM6QqzN0eTa_u9vv-W14ZAwUM2iR1GyWoLJcMRQ8oA9l-AyjB9PgHYsF-eN22M2Sk5jaRHPh/s400/Christmas+pictures+and+Carson%2527s+music+Recording+024.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689066918283876194" /></a><br />The courtyard wreath may be hanging...<br /><br />And it may look a lot like Christmas here in my neck of the woods...but with the temperature near 70 and the daffodils starting to emerge...it sure doesn't feel like it! Oh well...Merry Christmas to you all anyway!:) May God richly bless you and your families in the coming year!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-5705577125957792162011-11-08T19:12:00.001-05:002011-11-08T19:54:01.516-05:00Carson's One Year AnniversaryThis weekend was an anniversary of sorts for Carson. Our local volunteer fire department has an annual BBQ and Homecoming Event the first weekend every November. This community gathering is complete with vendors, games, food, live entertainment and a parade. Last year Carson was invited to perform her first show ever. You can read my post about that <a href="http://thecountrydiaryofasouthernlady.blogspot.com/2010/11/proud-mama-moments.html">here</a>. She played a thirty minute set in 38 degree weather. What a way to start out!<br /><br />This past weekend she was invited to perform again. This time she sang for an hour in weather that was a little better. Although it was a bit windy, the temperature was in the mid fifties..much better than last year. The group after her cancelled due to the wind so she was asked to sing again after a short break. She is such a trouper.<br /><br />I am amazed to look back and see how much she has accomplished with her music in a year's time. She has written quite a few original songs...had two produced and sold on itunes...and performed numerous shows. It makes me tired just thinking about it all. Oh, to have the energy of a thirteen year old again! Anyway, in honor of her first music anniversary I thought I would post a link to her youtube channel for those of you who have asked about what she has been doing lately. (Does that make me a proud mama?) I hope you enjoy!<br /><br /><iframe width="480" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/21ok6EammtM?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen=""></iframe>Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-9409154479473869572011-11-04T18:34:00.002-04:002011-11-04T18:41:38.059-04:00Have a nice weekend!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZmGk8q7HWrnOA_8v7t7cWaKuOn8dFTDr44DuQ4T1SCDl-91O8nzrMOVSr3i5VMIv2uQxbe-82ggI-0xUcyL_ZId0kUapn_eOdzsdgcYo2ndn1j28GFrVMMZuOcMPiMx0Jxfi38eO3fKJ/s1600/019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZmGk8q7HWrnOA_8v7t7cWaKuOn8dFTDr44DuQ4T1SCDl-91O8nzrMOVSr3i5VMIv2uQxbe-82ggI-0xUcyL_ZId0kUapn_eOdzsdgcYo2ndn1j28GFrVMMZuOcMPiMx0Jxfi38eO3fKJ/s400/019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671273503676918738" /></a><br />I hope your weekend is full of happiness and beauty!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-26818839453509876232011-11-01T10:05:00.004-04:002011-11-01T10:51:33.677-04:00It Can't Be Done.It can't be done....just four little words. Have you ever had anyone tell you this? I have. Just the other day I was reminded of one of those times when someone told me that something just couldn't be done. I was taking some fall pictures of my house and garden when I remembered the time that this conversation with a neighbor took place. I had just returned from Charleston, South Carolina where I fell completely in love with the courtyard gardens that I could barely see past the iron gates. One of the objects of my affection was a particular planting, creeping fig. This beautiful vine was growing everywhere giving off an air of timeless elegance. I wanted so much to turn my little courtyard area into a Charleston garden. Then it happened...my neighbor...the one with the greenest thumb in the whole county...said those words to me. "It can't be done. We don't live in a warm enough climate to grow creeping fig. If you plant it, it will just die the first winter."<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi9RSwK2YfrlxiVO_TH9V4numpWNcV8I0enK8lZZeLQUj-9JRbLM4C_knpIiAwM0KzxD1HdzTLYwlXVUKmAaU9VF0T2_5CjhRceU9bIXjCVSM5_HjvN8slSrDRyuovfmijxGOMokOukYn/s1600/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+458.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi9RSwK2YfrlxiVO_TH9V4numpWNcV8I0enK8lZZeLQUj-9JRbLM4C_knpIiAwM0KzxD1HdzTLYwlXVUKmAaU9VF0T2_5CjhRceU9bIXjCVSM5_HjvN8slSrDRyuovfmijxGOMokOukYn/s400/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+458.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670031211425853634" /></a><br /><br />Well, as you can see I ignored her and bought three tiny pots of verigated creeping fig. I figured that it would be protected somewhat by the three walls surrounding it and the heat from the bricks may keep it alive during the cold winters. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghaH8kOUDfF8S9yoIuV7i_wP3ToRDDcdUk7C2cQOTCUE8_u_VHS1AMgT9kEf86g0JQE6jAijFenWPT6L1zfVHU4qBida0SuMfXAlxJezfE6sadmrcsM775zrgfFwk0-JTsSqic86Kl_VkW/s1600/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+457.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghaH8kOUDfF8S9yoIuV7i_wP3ToRDDcdUk7C2cQOTCUE8_u_VHS1AMgT9kEf86g0JQE6jAijFenWPT6L1zfVHU4qBida0SuMfXAlxJezfE6sadmrcsM775zrgfFwk0-JTsSqic86Kl_VkW/s400/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+457.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670031195149245330" /></a><br /><br />Here it is four years later. It took it a couple of years to take off and the winter does take its toil on it just a little bit, however, it always comes back in the spring. In fact, I think it needs a little trimming right about now. What do you think? <br /><br />I couldn't help but chuckle when taking my pictures the other day. My neighbor's words resounding in my mind. I am so glad that I chose not to listen to her.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbax3UzURCKXRzTunHqOoX6UyJQuOrv_dADZfGStogBHy2td9dmkIBCL4MXMcbU58vZn9TqOD7CaReGv6PQjgCAVVEOtChfndo9kS1t_pVJKHo6CAt7zr_QSF1LuKo4GW9UKfofw3g-Ib4/s1600/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+072.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbax3UzURCKXRzTunHqOoX6UyJQuOrv_dADZfGStogBHy2td9dmkIBCL4MXMcbU58vZn9TqOD7CaReGv6PQjgCAVVEOtChfndo9kS1t_pVJKHo6CAt7zr_QSF1LuKo4GW9UKfofw3g-Ib4/s400/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+072.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670031180248881154" /></a><br /><br />I tell my girls often that anything is possible and to never let anyone tell you that something can't be done. Carson has heard a lot of "it can't be done" and "do you know how many talented people want a music career" lately. Her dad and I counter those statements with something like "if you really want it and if you are willing to work hard enough anything can happen." Isn't that what we are supposed to tell our children? <br /><br />I think I should tell her the story of the creeping fig and remind her of the Bible verse that says, "With God ALL things are possible." Matthew 19:26Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-3188312678666215392011-10-28T10:26:00.004-04:002011-10-28T11:03:29.002-04:00Shelter!One of the most important necessities of life is shelter. This necessity is often taken for granted. We have already had quite a few cold, rainy days this fall that have made me pause and thank God for my nice warm home. <br /><br />On a recent dreary day I noticed a little fellow that did not seem to be as fortunate as myself.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxa7dYYo-ls-oWPYhCtcJUnR8xmv5SsibD4jMBthNUKZVMPxTGMXbySyGp0RbRLeYvuOuNXZLw4NzcGScF31kdZIKw6irZqp8lnwKp1qj0vQMw3zdW5aOBnnusbKJUlO9hb6FUg-6Fh7CL/s1600/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+771.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxa7dYYo-ls-oWPYhCtcJUnR8xmv5SsibD4jMBthNUKZVMPxTGMXbySyGp0RbRLeYvuOuNXZLw4NzcGScF31kdZIKw6irZqp8lnwKp1qj0vQMw3zdW5aOBnnusbKJUlO9hb6FUg-6Fh7CL/s400/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+771.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668554540927801458" /></a><br />I wonder why he is choosing to sit in the rain?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2q71bUPg4JP8X7tGgQM2_04dSrt5gy9LhLi3s9PXQ0DUIJrrldD0QxabcWRs_JXk6MauoF-vmD9fMwsK36otnJiSIG8yihWiyWYvnIIfaQVar-hxqyc97-4SG07m1L_TW1oxeDNq0u_k1/s1600/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+774.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2q71bUPg4JP8X7tGgQM2_04dSrt5gy9LhLi3s9PXQ0DUIJrrldD0QxabcWRs_JXk6MauoF-vmD9fMwsK36otnJiSIG8yihWiyWYvnIIfaQVar-hxqyc97-4SG07m1L_TW1oxeDNq0u_k1/s400/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+774.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668552808004750002" /></a><br />And just when I thought he was strange, I noticed that he wasn't alone.<br />Are there any reptile specialists out there that have an explanation for this?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBCx8lYlPJItLpm1kl_DfSqU7ONrY-BolL4ELa2H4OljufcMWBPxEuKXS16T2H-XdbqIhl4YmjGSOHWuNCT5fo9fCcOkLPQR39R1bkKu9_O6rmpvQZc4Nmzkuihy-hmEIFNEbKxlBXKsz/s1600/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+782.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBCx8lYlPJItLpm1kl_DfSqU7ONrY-BolL4ELa2H4OljufcMWBPxEuKXS16T2H-XdbqIhl4YmjGSOHWuNCT5fo9fCcOkLPQR39R1bkKu9_O6rmpvQZc4Nmzkuihy-hmEIFNEbKxlBXKsz/s400/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+782.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668552801038792594" /></a><br />From the warmth of my own place of shelter, I noticed something else. The Camellia was almost ready to bloom!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35pIu0YHA62oDXQyPmMLSLmQP-Sk_GMfC5qAa3CsG_8buLN7My-Cz5qo7TTw8h5Up-fvqd6KpiCy6bMQSliK_c7ummkPfcxOYNKr-2GDXAN6OI_L44LH9FOK3x00Ixi3kxMWrrdBGUmZM/s1600/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+451.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh35pIu0YHA62oDXQyPmMLSLmQP-Sk_GMfC5qAa3CsG_8buLN7My-Cz5qo7TTw8h5Up-fvqd6KpiCy6bMQSliK_c7ummkPfcxOYNKr-2GDXAN6OI_L44LH9FOK3x00Ixi3kxMWrrdBGUmZM/s400/Carson%2527s+pictures+truck+and+covered+bridge+451.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668552798991531730" /></a><br />After a couple of days of rain, the sun came out again...and so did the blooms!<br /><br />I am so thankful that God has provided me shelter from the weather! I am also thankful that He chose to surround it with the beauty of His creation. Is there something that you are thankful for today?Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-11998296571259399072011-10-20T11:05:00.003-04:002011-10-20T11:21:58.191-04:00I must admit....I must admit that blogging has been on the back burner for sometime now for me. I must also admit that I miss it. Although I am trying to read and keep up with your blogs, I have not been communicating much with my blogging friends. I didn't realize how much I enjoy your company...so I am going to try to do better. I am going to try to carve out time for my blog no matter how busy my schedule may be. <br /><br />One thing I have failed to do in my busyness is to thank <a href="http://pattiannsblog.blogspot.com/">Patti</a> for the wonderful gift that I received in the mail sometime back. She hosted a give-a-way at her blog and I was the lucky winner. She sent me this lovely book and a sweet note.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO5OB0yPqu73tyGg8x1Zi9jESeCr2hGMJfZzPGzQ_B_VXGL1yD2bw7bpNRgWWKjnG02wPEdEGu5arGppB5tKsMtarE4GOPKygb1hJEUk-rD1VJx5jF2X196u9p8HMNxT-o_e7PBOFG6gj/s1600/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+741.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO5OB0yPqu73tyGg8x1Zi9jESeCr2hGMJfZzPGzQ_B_VXGL1yD2bw7bpNRgWWKjnG02wPEdEGu5arGppB5tKsMtarE4GOPKygb1hJEUk-rD1VJx5jF2X196u9p8HMNxT-o_e7PBOFG6gj/s400/Carson%2527s+VFW+Performance+Grans+741.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665593469207917362" /></a><br /><br />Thank you so much, Patti. This package in my mailbox brightened my day! Patti has a lovely blog that is very uplifting. If you have a few minutes you should pop in and visit her.<br /><br />I hope everyone is having a wonderful fall season. In the next few days I will try to share some of our fall happenings here in North Carolina!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-61615297209678746962011-09-21T21:28:00.001-04:002011-09-21T21:44:26.238-04:00Rainy Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTTGs1tpHwBktbmGu-lxm3bYmxbroTktbcqvQ-swBpe_3VS5BCaO7RYf7xu7BBTjuvqtTrkAvpK_f2ErG5QOkoi2Z_pO93NGebE3kgyy4w6vZSud2LG2R-ZPeiGLXnyHTSoyKp9kKzEqp/s1600/103.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTTGs1tpHwBktbmGu-lxm3bYmxbroTktbcqvQ-swBpe_3VS5BCaO7RYf7xu7BBTjuvqtTrkAvpK_f2ErG5QOkoi2Z_pO93NGebE3kgyy4w6vZSud2LG2R-ZPeiGLXnyHTSoyKp9kKzEqp/s400/103.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654992190776488930" /></a><br />We finally had some much needed rain today. One of my favorite things to do on a rainy day is to just sit and watch the raindrops splash on the pond. What do you like to do on a rainy day?Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-45604197374392244762011-09-16T17:31:00.002-04:002011-09-16T17:52:11.951-04:00Fall Preview<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpm45jYnx1x-m9lCjDQ3DGf1YZ0thkKobkbsqix6F_iQqMf8vnezejTENVsK-6xQD1FCC87qlICL8WIdLPPpoGOBmZ4TYbJRmV_4tQQZEyN87hgmcHiPilABOSsyWTspa6piLuqWgYuc2/s1600/174.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpm45jYnx1x-m9lCjDQ3DGf1YZ0thkKobkbsqix6F_iQqMf8vnezejTENVsK-6xQD1FCC87qlICL8WIdLPPpoGOBmZ4TYbJRmV_4tQQZEyN87hgmcHiPilABOSsyWTspa6piLuqWgYuc2/s400/174.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653076722351215794" /></a><br />The past couple of months have been very busy here in our household. I ended up taking a little break from blogging. Now that Catie is settled into college life and we are settling into a new year of homeschooling our schedule has finally gotten back to normal. I have missed many of your posts, but hope to catch up soon. Our long, hot summer came to a sudden stop today with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees. I think we are getting a little fall preview. What a welcomed change!Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445127530546217589.post-64846833422096371822011-08-26T14:11:00.002-04:002011-08-26T14:26:37.018-04:00Hurricane IreneOne of my favorite places is starting to feel the effects of Hurricane Irene. Although these pictures of Oak Island were taken on a beautiful summer day, our good friends are now experiencing rain bands from the storm.
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxNaFA9Mk5uxSBt2xWJ31STQEPQ_qjwnkuqmvMWMg_ecqi_LPPowguE9Oa1IKGPyWi670INn9ffauRoeefeGoMmaCiF218an6-TWCnPO5qBYEbRTSFvaqADNoGbSI1tGRx20hHJuxvdGQ/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvxNaFA9Mk5uxSBt2xWJ31STQEPQ_qjwnkuqmvMWMg_ecqi_LPPowguE9Oa1IKGPyWi670INn9ffauRoeefeGoMmaCiF218an6-TWCnPO5qBYEbRTSFvaqADNoGbSI1tGRx20hHJuxvdGQ/s400/030.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645230667929010002" /></a>
<br />
<br />Please join me in praying for all of those on the east coast in the path of this large storm.
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSimmFg2isvQKrxQW6vLtJTBusKIqFfvjjf0EfB0jq0wHwGMwD1qIaBmuX_DuD955Xi55i4tkO-KBOBJta1yUwu1s1mfs8Axh94yOmz5NnGzfv4cJ8kbgb2hWjAjlr8h_Qn_kuUcZdOiN/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSimmFg2isvQKrxQW6vLtJTBusKIqFfvjjf0EfB0jq0wHwGMwD1qIaBmuX_DuD955Xi55i4tkO-KBOBJta1yUwu1s1mfs8Axh94yOmz5NnGzfv4cJ8kbgb2hWjAjlr8h_Qn_kuUcZdOiN/s400/008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645230661814565010" /></a>
<br />
<br />If any of you are in the path of Irene, please stay safe and know that I am praying for you and your families.
<br />
<br />Southern Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13732279575596442033noreply@blogger.com9