British Colonial Love Affair

Disappeared!!!

2011-09-20T18:19:00.002-04:00

Hello my fellow blogger's I know it's been awhile... have a new site hoping you all remember me and decide to come and join in on the adventure of a lifetime...then you'll see what I have been up to!!!

Cheers
Frenchkilt

http://lisaforest.blogspot.com/

Fishy Business this Tablescape Thursday

2009-07-01T09:02:00.007-04:00

Don't forget to check out all the other wonderfully talented tablescape artists out there click the side link to get to Susan's and check them out too;)

Last time I posted which I can't believe was much too long ago I showed off our deck addition. Well this week it's the deck all decked out for a little evening with friends!!

I guess it's a little tropical with the pineapple candle in the center and little fishies everywhere!

I never would have imagined that turquoise and red could look so good together but I think I like it!

Aren't these the cutest little critters!! They were the inspiration for the tablescape!

I think they were $2.00 each at Target!

And of course these followed soon after. I actually picked these up at Christmas time or maybe even before then on sale at TJ Maxx, there were four different ones so I picked up one of each!

Still trying to decide which my favorite is!

I think I like this one.. the best.... I think;)

But they are all so cute....

Casual outdoor dining with friends....

Hope you enjoy all the other posts at Susan's over at

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

Hugs French;)

xoxox

Mini Met Monday

2009-06-14T09:47:00.005-04:00

Go see other great Makeover's here at Susan's;)

Two years ago we added this addition to our very small back porch

You can sort of see where the original porch ended, my hubby had covered the porch with this canopy shortly after we first moved in...the canopy didn't last long and the color just wasn't working for me..the table and chairs were my original kitchen set and can hardly be seen here... but now..

This is what it looks like this year...we hd the canopy re-covered in a red fabric and the chairs were also covered in the same red to match..this is the view at night

Now we even have lights for the evening...music and even a fan up in the right hand corner to help not only with the heat but the bugs...;)

It is still a major work in progress but so much nicer to look at now

Hope you enjoy all the other Met Monday posts!!

Hugs French;) xoxoxo

Met Monday revisited....sort of...

2009-05-31T20:58:00.011-04:00

Check out the other posts at Susan's over here

Before

After

Some of you may remember that I have been working on a few projects...I have finally finished the tables!!! and the chair which I love is finally almost finished just the upholstering left (phew)...sorry about the quality of some of the pics but they were taken at dusk and the light wasn't great....of course had to throw in a few garden pics too;) Hope you enjoy all the great Met Monday posts..

Hugs French;)

xoxoxoxox

Who who HOOO are you?

2009-05-24T17:58:00.005-04:00

A little nature from French's yard......hubby ran in this morning and said QUICK get your camera and come here. First, I am still in my jammies, second I don't go beyond the fence in the backyard....it's a jungle out there (ok not really but I am just not the outdoorsy type) it's all woods and a small creek...but alas I run off behind hubby with camera in hand to see a most spectacular view that even took my breath away.....we've been hearing this big critter for days now but finally got a bird's eye view of him (no pun intended)!! We also have a nest sitting on our front porch, I tried to snap a pic but it came out kind of blurry but you can just see a hint of a beak wide open waiting on breakfast....the other pics are of some flowers in the yard...hope everyone has a safe Memorial day weekend;)

Hugs and much love French;) xoxox

Zimbabwe here it comes!!

2009-05-14T22:10:00.005-04:00

There have been a few times in my life that I have been proud of my accomplishments...a few times I have given my time for others less fortunate...but for some reason I think this one little thing has made me proudest of all.......why you ask??? Simple...you see the bus pictured below? Well a week ago a friend of my husband asked if he could use our shop to store a bus he needed to work on since it was raining and because it was too large to fit in his bay....Well after some careful measurements and some incredible driving they managed to get this bus shown below into our bay. Why is it so important to me? When the man who owned the bus came by I asked him about it and this is how the story goes...to the best of my knowledge;) There were some people in Virginia that bought the bus with the intentions of using it as a Medical bus for needy people...for what ever reason there was some disagreement and after purchasing the bus it sat for several years..A local company bought the bus and got it back up and running in tip, top shape to send to Zimbabwe....as I walked into the bus I could just picture all of the people coming in and out of it...it gave me chills to think that perhaps this bus which we had sitting in our shop, was perhaps going to save the lives of so many children...it may be there to comfort people in need...it might be....well the list goes on....suffice to say that we didn't charge the company nor our friend to house the bus for a few days. After 2 days it was then being sent for one final check up and then driven to Charleston where it was going to put on a boat to travel to what seems to me like the other side of the world...hopefully to bring peace and comfort and good health to those in desperate need....Financially we can't do much to help others but sometimes the use of a space and your time means a life for others....Hope everyone is doing well and remember often it is better to give than receive;)

Hugs French xoxoxo

Wordful Wednesday??? Southern Style

2009-05-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

Enough said about that....here's your chuckle for the day for those that haven't seen this yet!!

I know the text is small but hopefully you can read it! Have a great day;)

Hugs French;)

Mega things happening on this Met Monday

2009-05-03T21:11:00.015-04:00

Please drop by and visit other posts listed at Susan's over here

These are just a few of the things we have been up to which has kept me away from blogging...doing the front yard

Planting some goodies...hopefully I will have good after pics when all of my bulbs are in bloom which aren't many but the first time I have ever planted anything!

The shop bathroom...since I am there all the time now I wanted it to look decent...

So it went from this to ...

To this...as you can see we are not quite finished but almost

This shelf unit was a maple and stood on the floor we cut it down painted it black, added mirror to the back ad some glass shelves and mounted it to the wall completely different look and makes the room appear larger by simply getting it off the floor;)

Then here are a few furniture pieces I have been working on...

These tables which before were cherry wood...

After hours of painting and sanding and a glaze coat they are almost complete

I will be inserting mirrors in the lower section to update them a little;)

Oh lookie a few things popping up;)

I think these are so beautiful;)

The backyard has just begun;( Its a ton of work

And this is only the one side of the yard (LOL)

This is the piece that so far I have spent 9 hours just sanding!!!!!

Here are two more tables and the chair after the first sanding

One table finished

Another one finished

This chair at the completion of sanding is seen below in several stages..

The order of these got mixed up a little this was at the end of sanding the other chair I had worked on...

The original seat cushion and flat back I decided to add the applique for more interest..

This was the chair before

This is the chair after in the entry way

A slightly closer view

The original company where the chair was made;)

Phew! Sorry this is so long but in no particular order these are just a few of the things I have been working on....It's been a busy few months and helping hubby full time at the shop has me scrambling to manage my time better, so it's weekends to do these things..... I hope everyone is well and hope to get around to visit soon;)

Hugs French xoxox

Powerful Video.....please watch

2009-04-24T19:23:00.004-04:00

Came across this video if you haven't seen it please turn off my music and watch it...pretty powerful stuff from such a young boy...Enjoy;) and in the meantime I will try to get a real post out soon!!! Hugs French xoxoxo:)

Help? and Happy Easter to All!!

2009-04-10T21:28:00.004-04:00

Help I am having serious blog issues I have lost everything on my sidebar and have not done it myself this time!! I have no idea how to get it back up despite the fact that it is still in my layout!! I can't get to visit everyone until I rectify this please help if you can....As I am at a complete loss over here!!! Happy Easter to all since I can't seem to get anywhere without being booted either!! I need a techy!!!

French;)

~Met Monday~

2009-03-15T21:12:00.004-04:00

Another Met Monday hosted by none other than Susan at;)

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

I am showing a simple before and after with a few subtle changes in accessories...my bathroom before and after....curtains which I had made as seen here using left over fabric from the bedroom drapes...

Before it matched the color scheme of the bedroom which was in the blues and browns...

Now it's lighter and more airy with the whites and corals..

Moved the light fixture from the bedroom to the bathroom..

Still haven't found the right artwork but eventually I will... just used what I had in the meantime;)

Hope you all enjoy the Monday before and after's and be sure to check out all the others listed at Susan above or use the Met Monday picture in my side bar;)

Hugs and have a great day!!

French;) xoxo

United States of Lisa???

2009-03-09T23:48:00.018-04:00

Tara an artist, a mom a wife.....

One of her alter ego's Alice...the June Cleaver type...

Buck the testosterone alter...the manly man....

"T" the sex crazed teenager with no inhibitions.....

Some of you may or may not have heard of a new television show called "United States of Tara". I fell upon it one late night unable to sleep and found myself completely captivated by the show! It's on the showtime channel, and well worth a look-see.... and here's why...

The basic idea of the show is simple, a somewhat normal family living in suburbia, and with an untrained eye, a "normal" family...HA! The main character TARA, has multiple personality disorder..she has recently decided to stop taking her medication and try to live her life as 'normally" as possible...*he he* Note, the series would be considered rated "R" so please take that into consideration if watching it.

Her main character Tara is the normal one...the one who had a terrible tragedy happen to her which caused her disorder, of which her husband is desperately trying to get to the bottom of..

She has a completely non-sensitive sister who merely tolerates her, but hates the fact that she seems to have all the happiness in her life...

Her husband is absolutely adorable.... and a very recognizable actor..I'll let you look that up;)

She also has two children.. a teenage daughter who is rebellious, and a son who is the brain but trying to determine his own sexuality...

So this got me to thinking......maybe she has the right idea because let's face it ladies there are days we feel like this right? OK let's see........

Blogger....

Sex kitten.....

Mediator....

Nurse....

June Cleaver homemaker "extraordinaire"

Cook...

Housekeeper

Decorator....

Banker

Accountant

Last but not least ......

Psychiatrist

I am starting to think that having Multiple Personality Disorder might be something shared by all women....maybe we just don't know it?? Maybe we need to literally "play out" those roles like she does and become "One" with the characters.... I mean what a great excuse...."Sorry honey I had no idea "T" used the credit card to buy a whole new wardrobe...or "honey I'm sorry dinner isn't ready but you know "Buck" ain't the cooking kind...

I think they are onto something here...

The producer of the show is Stephen Spielberg...I say it's worth the watch....just be forewarned of the content being rated "R"...

Tonight I was the blogger and I know I am way behind and trying desperately to catch up!

Well....it's late I'm tired and deciding which personality I have to wear tomorrow;)

Hugs

French;)
xoxox

Met Monday Make-over

2009-03-08T18:04:00.009-04:00

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com

Hosted by Susan at the above;)

I apologize for the quality of the pics but several were taken with my camera phone and somewhat blurry;) My client's table and chairs were a typical traditional cherry set with peach colored seats. She wanted a more contemporary room, so we began with painting the chairs and table black and replacing the fabric on the cushions!

The room before...

As some of you know I have been trying to help my friend decorate her new home. I guess you could say she has been my first client of sorts. Her budget was only $250.00 so we did the best we could with this budget;) Hope you enjoy the pics....she is really happy with the final outcome and I guess that's what truly matters.;) There are still a few things she wants to finish accessorizing the room but overall she is completely ecstatic with the outcome!

The first step....painting the chairs

The chairs re-covered...what a difference! They look new again!

We moved away from the typical builder beige to this green color.. and I sewed the drapes which are a tan linen... and added some bamboo blinds!!

The piece seen here on the wall was actually a headboard from a bed but was the right price and feel for the room at a $35.00 cost!

Added some shades to the current chandelier for a completely different look!

Took an existing gold framed mirror and painted it silver...took some scrap fabric that I had used in my son's room and framed them for some cheap artwork! Frames were only $5 each at Wally world;)

The buffet is actually an old stereo cabinet and actually the radio still works! It had been painted black already so it matched perfectly...cost FREE!!

So there you have it....some paint....fabric and a few gently used pieces and the room has been completely transformed into a cozy, contemporary updated space!

Still a few things needed, but overall a huge transformation with a minimal budget and best of all a happy homeowner!!

Hugs and thanks for taking the time to visit;)

French;)xoxoxo

Fabric 101

2009-02-28T10:26:00.002-05:00

One of the things I have learned to love is fabric..Above is one of my latest sewing projects....I fell in love with this material and have decided to make curtains with it...I want to have them in my living room...but that means re-painting and re-covering chairs...am I crazy??? Kelly has been the culprit to my love of fabric and she has been teaching me a lot about sewing...she is a seamstress...and does amazing work!!

Despite the fact that most of these I won't personally use I wanted to show you the fabrics and my thought process with each of them...let's see how different we each see things..

The above fabric is an ultra suede...perfect for recovering chairs or an ottoman..yes?

A tone on tone linen stripe this would make beautiful drapes....

An olive green chenille type fabric perfect for accessory pillows or re-covering an ottoman...

This plaid reminds me of a Ralph Lauren type chair for a stately type library or office.....what do you think?

Oh lookie here....toile that's beige and red with wildlife instead of people this reminds me of a vintage room that shabby chic cottage style....or maybe something French???

This beautiful linen fabric didn't show up well but is incredible in person, this would make beautiful drapes for a bedroom don't you think? Paisley look with greens, golds, so many options here.....

I fell in LOVE with this fabric the colors are so warm and the pattern is beautiful...imagine where and how you could use this....so many possibilities....

I love this fabric I think it would be wonderful with an Asian theme.....beige linen with raspberry roses imagine using it with a slate colored tweed.....how yummy would that be? or do you see country???

Once again my pineapple fabric...do you think it works with my British Colonial decor?.......

Hope you enjoyed touring the fabrics.....this is just a few of the fabrics we have collected...see something you like? See something you would want?? What would YOU be willing to spend for a custom pair of drapes? Just food for thought....I have been really busy lately buried in life...I hope to try and get around to see each and every one of you soon!! There are several of you so it may take a while but just know each and every one of you are always in my thoughts and prayers!!

Hugs and much love French;) xoxoxo

Undercover

2009-02-19T00:07:00.003-05:00

Too many things to keep up with right now...going undercover for awhile! Sometimes life just gets in the way of blogging;) See you all soon!! Hopefully with some good news and some new stuff and ideas!!!

Hugs French;)

xoxoxo

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-02-15T22:48:00.011-05:00

Be sure to check out all of the other postings over at Susan's here;)

I didn't have anything prepared so put I this together in quick order despite the fact that there have been a few more changes that I haven't taken pics of yet...This is was the original builder entry light...plain and simple with very beige walls

In this picture you see the difference lighting can make;)

This was how we originally had the entry set up...use what you have until you can put it all together..

View from the other direction...I wanted a new hall table and was having trouble finding one until...

I found this one...It has copper inlaid in the front and leather straps to look like belts coming down the front...the bonus was that it also has storage space to hide stuff;)

Found a mirror that matched it quite well style wise...were on a roll now!

That stark white door in the background just wasn't cutting it so...a half a quart of black paint and voila a whole new feel...now what isn't shown in pics is that the glass on the sidelites was changed to a patterned glass that looks really nice and removed the white muntins...

I really liked this piece and still do;) and it was liked so much that it was used as an inspiration on the Rate My Space TV show...we were the last episode of the first season and had a blast doing it!

View now from the front door...Still want to stain the stairs a darker color possibly change the spindles to wrought iron...always a work in progress...

I think G-mans' honey DO list is getting longer by the minute;)

Hope you enjoy all the posts shared during this Met Monday;)

Hugs French xoxox

Oooohhh and Ahhhhhhh "French" Style

2009-02-13T22:31:00.008-05:00

When I get overwhelmed like I have been lately I have to take a few minutes to indulge in the things that make me feel good.....rooms like these take my breath away and carry me to a far off place where life seems so much simpler...

A place where the only decision of the day is what will we have to eat for breakfast?

A place where perhaps breakfast will be served to me before the sleep is washed away from my eyes.....

A place that feels like heaven on earth...where the outside falls into my lap and feels completely calming and refreshing....a place that washes away the here and now and promises of better days ahead....

A place that feels luxurious and...... yet so comfortable and unpretentious....

A place like this I could call home....Honey not this year but maybe next this is where we will be...

"I LOVE YOU G-MAN"

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Have a romantic one bloggers;)

Hugs French

xoxoxox

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-02-08T19:40:00.004-05:00

You can see more Met Monday before and afters by visiting Susan's blog here

Hubby said the laundry room didn't look that bad and at first I didn't think so either...then I took a picture..typical builder wire shelving left everything open for viewing and I hated that..so a visit to Home Depot was in order.

Some paint, these cabinets, new lighting and a bit of work and voila! A completely new look! All for less than $300.00!!

The only thing that is new now, a new washer and dryer since mine went kaput a few months later! This is an easy do-it-yourself project that we managed over a weekend! Eventually we plan on actually expanding the size of the room to add cabinets and a counter for folding and extra baskets as well as a place for a larger pantry!

Hope you enjoy all the other Met Monday make-overs!!

Hugs French;)

xoxox

Tablescape Thursday;)

2009-02-04T17:17:00.004-05:00

Welcome to our first Tablescape Thursday;) hosted by Susan over here;0)

So what does one do when out of ideas and dishes? Go to a friend's house of course and borrow their dishes, table, stemware, etc... for a few hours and snap some pictures;)

I knew that Kelly had several dishes and a beautiful room and table to display them on so I invited myself to play a little with her stuff;) See the detail in the cup isn't this sweet!! The dishes are a light aqua color so soft and pretty;)

It was easy with all the stuff she had to throw this together...I would stand there and say "nope...somethings missing" and off she would run and gather more stuff. (lol)

The center piece is a mirror she made that usually hangs in her sun room, we used it as the centerpiece...then we realized we had a theme of sorts and out she pulls this fun vase to set in the middle of the table... and look at the tulips isn't that kind of unexpected yet fun!

The crisp white napkins and rings I had brought with me and look they look perfect up against her setting!

This was fun and something I truly enjoyed for a day! A nice little escape from the chaos that seems to be following me;)

The wall color in the room even matches the lovely setting it's so soothing isn't it?

Look more circles on the candle holders!

Well I hope you enjoyed looking at something different today!! A big thanks to Kelly for putting up her stuff and her house for me to use and play with.... friends like that are "priceless"!!

Hugs and enjoy the rest of the tour as I am sure there are many lovely spaces to look at;)

Hugs and much love

French;)

xoxoxo

Need prayers and an Extra Warm Welcome!!

2009-02-03T16:28:00.004-05:00

First, please say your prayers as I spent the last almost 7 hours in the ER with a friend who has been admitted to the hospital. He is my best friend and I love him dearly. We have been the best of friends since 1996 when I first moved here to the states. He has since retired and has been in ill health the last few months. He is my friend, my confidant and the kindest most gentle soul I have ever had the privilege of knowing.

Second, I need prayers for my family...it's been a difficult few months for me back and forth to the doctors and just when my specialists appointments were finally scheduled my employer cancelled my health insurance and have basically fired me..Yeah I think I need a lawyer...and the money to get one...I can't even discuss the hell I am going through...enough about that...

I can't be all doom and gloom so finally some good news.....

Third, my dear friend from RMS, (kiakai or Kelly) who I regularly talk about has FINALLY after much persuasion started a blog. This lady has taught me so much over the last year since we met, we took Interior Design classes and have also worked on a few projects together. She is my rock when it comes to design. NOBODY can turn junk into beauty better than she can! She is an awesome seamstress as well. Please stop by her sun room which she has done with a budget of $215.00!!! It will take your breath away. Have any questions about re-upholstering, sewing, staining, building, molding etc....... she knows it all and all the tricks of the trade!!! You can find her here at: please give her a warm welcome;)

http://muchtodowithnothing.blogspot.com

Much love French;)
xoxoxo

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-02-02T00:16:00.006-05:00

When we first moved into this home we had no idea how we were going to tackle these huge cathedral ceilings and massive walls...however, I did know that because of the architecture I wanted the fireplace to stand out so we added the green color to that wall, the green is in the same family as the sofa. The new TV no longer fit in the armoire so it had to be moved to the bedroom and this is what I was left with...ugh...not the look I was going for, but time, money etc...you can't completely see it but that wall goes way up...

Then I had these mis-treatments going on too...nothing was working and I was becoming increasingly frustrated..then hubby and I realized other than the huge TV wall the problem was the fireplace it was much too traditional for the look we were trying to achieve and the paint needed to be carried on to that huge monstrous wall..yikes! I love my big round mirror and assumed because of it's size it was best placed on the biggest wall.... but thanks to some very patient ladies from RMS and a wonderful hubby that big bad boy had to be moved!

Finally, the look we wanted, cream glass tiles, a hearth and a big chunky mantel..and look the mirror fits much better here! All things by trial and error. Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.../a>I loved that big 3 piece armoire when we bought it and now those two end pieces are sitting in my garage...I need to find something to do with them but what??? hmmm that's a project for another date...

It's always a work in progress but getting there...I just wish that once I could complete a room from beginning to end without having to wait for the money to do it;) We are planning to add a header above the TV and add some much needed lighting for the space. This is the room we live in the most...but hubby says nothing more inside until we start on the backyard...it's a mess maybe one day I will have my tropical getaway back there...maybe....

All I know is that I am so lucky to have a handy man because if not we sure wouldn't have this much done;) Don't forget to check out more of the Met Monday's ideas just click on the badge on my side bar to take you to Susan's and the list!

Hugs French;0)

xoxoxox

Tablescape Tuesday

2009-01-26T23:00:00.002-05:00

To see more lovely table scape please visit Susan over here;)

Since Valentine's day is just around the corner, I thought I would take this opportunity to share my table scape idea for Valentine's day.

We often get so caught up with every day life we forget to take time for each other as a couple... between work, kids, and Tae Kwon Do lessons and violin, and PTA events etc.....so this is my evening planned for hubby and I.....

Just a simple and romantic setting for two.. did you happen to notice the little mini cake plate? It's my first one and it cost a whopping $4.00 at TJ Maxx;)

Candles, rose petals and sweets...who needs dinner????

A little Marvin Gaye playing in the background...and the kids are off to friend's for sleepovers...all is quiet....ahhhhhh

The dinner planned is steak with mushrooms and onions cooked medium rare, garlic mashed potatoes, and a zucchini/squash vegetable medley.

Tonight's wine will be Woodbridge Pinot Noire...

Take your shoes off, relax and let's talk about us;) Let's laugh and reminisce about the day's gone by......

Let's look at each other's eyes and remember what brought us together 22 years ago...

The rose petals are actually from a potpourri bag,...I thought it added the touch of romance the table needed;)

A closer look at the napkin rings with a small candy heart for my true love...

Layers of silver, white and red with simple black placemats.

The centerpiece is a bouquet of roses (shhh yes they are artificial)....but don't they look beautiful!

Last but not least the dessert being served this evening will be strawberry eclairs....delicious!

Don't forget to do a little something special for your significant other this Valentine's Day!

Hope you enjoyed the tour!

Hugs French

xoxoxox

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-01-25T22:00:00.000-05:00

Sponsored by Susan here

In the very early days of RMS I posted my bedroom. It wasn't nearly finished but I wanted some input on how to move forward. What I discovered very quickly were that several people were very helpful, some were just down right mean and that the colors of the year seemed to be---- blues and browns and they were showing up all over the RMS site.

After much looking and shopping and searching for ideas, I eventually was able to put this together. Much better than the previous. Yet, something wasn't quite right...

Ah, this looked much better....but alas I still wasn't satisfied with the final result...primarily because it didn't speak to my true style...The British Colonial style that I love...so after much research and lust over the bed below I broke down and bought the new bed...

Of course changing the bed meant changing everything else...Hubby continued to shake his head in complete disbelief at me...after all we had just really finished the bedroom after almost 5 years then here I went changing it...yes again!

I love the bed, and I love the feel of the room now. I haven't been able to get the plantation shutters yet, so I opted to purchase these shorter shutters from Craig's list for $35 and stained them to match the bed. There are so many things in here that Kelly helped me with including the making of the bolster, curtains and coral pillows. In fact she even helped me paint the room, she's a God send! For those that don't know Kelly is a fellow RMS lady that I met who actually now lives about 5 miles away from me;)

Love the look for the summer but still felt as though something was missing and then I found these pictures which I adore...I think they look wonderful yet don't distract from the beauty of the headboard, which to me is a work of art in itself!

I'm still not sure about this little spot as you walk into the room, eventually would like to get a flat panel TV instead of the big armoire... and want to replace the dressers as well...would love to have a spot for a leather bench at the bottom of the bed or maybe a chaise....yes I know patience.......

Found this fabric below and loved it! In total cost me $42 for 9 yards! Can't beat a deal like that and the colors and print really follow the "theme" I am trying to achieve.

I know the mirror looks to be hung a little low but if it were any higher I couldn't see in it (yes I'm short) but in reality the new chest of drawers I want is shorter and then the mirror will look better.

All in all it's been a great learning process and I am loving the changes so far....I have seen grass cloth and beams on the ceiling of one room and would love to try that.....maybe (he he) who knows what the next look will be! Hoping to get the real plantation shutters some time this year! Hope you enjoyed the tour! The bottom line is that I buy almost everything on sale,(well almost) but half the fun is the hunt isn't it? Finding that right piece, or fabric or pillow etc..?

Happy hunting!!

Hugs French;)

xoxoxoxox

Wordless Wednesday;)

2009-01-21T00:00:00.003-05:00

Metamorphosis Monday

2009-01-18T23:00:00.003-05:00

This is the before and after pictures from a complete house make-over that Kelly and I done during our Interior Design class. This homeowner needed a complete house make-over with a budget of only $1500, for the entire 1500 SF home. This small hallway required 4 coats of paint! It was so dark and dreary, look at the difference with the after. Even the doors were painted!
Wow what a difference!

The bedroom before? Where to start? The upper part of the walls had wall paper and border, and the bottom half was painted apparently to match? Burgundy and gray on the upper with green and peach on the lower...what were they thinking?

The after, creams and tan paint, the bedding and curtains were something I had stored and pulled out to use for the staging, the set was plum and gray. The artwork, and black and cream pillows were provided by Kelly as was the idea of the backboard to hang them on! HUGE improvement. The homeowner cried as she walked into this room, she loved it!

The living room had been used as both a living room and a dining room, to maximize the size of the room we stored the dining room furniture. The lower part of the walls were wallpaper, and it was impossible to remove so we opted to add bead board and trim.

We tried to show off the hardwood floors which are the original ones to the home. The curtains were pulled from the bedroom and the addition of sheers let some much needed light in the room! The sofa and coffee table were things I also had in storage, we removed the theater sofa and replaced it with this smaller one again to maximize the space;)

This was the kitchen before! A mish-mash of items that didn't belong in the room, what I didn't get a picture of was the kitchen cabinets which were also painted!

The addition of a new but gently used round table, some new seat covers, and a table runner, some art work and a new but used light fixture which was a vast improvement from the previous fixture which was a mini fan? Unfortunately the budget didn't allow us to change the floors which we would have liked to do as well as remove the current blinds but we had to stay within our budget!

The bathroom before....so many things done in here, the addition of a new vanity and faucets, new grout, paint and flooring.

After, a new curtain made by Kelly, and some fresh new towels! These pictures don't really do the rooms justice because the after was truly a VAST improvement!

All in all the make-over was a huge success! We did this makeover for free! Sometimes you can't always have the things you prefer when confined to a budget, so you simply learn to improvise and use what you have. The bottom line was that the first person that looked at the house after the work was completed, bought it! We were very pleased with that as was the homeowner! Original listing price suggested per the realtor was $62,500, after the make-over she decided to list it at $89,900! It sold for full price of $89,900!

Success!

Hugs and thanks for stopping in!

French;) xoxox

Special thanks to Susan for the first Metamorphosis Monday!

She can be found at http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

Or click on the link on my sidebar to take you there;)

Click any picture to enlarge and get a better view!

The "Kilt" Question Finally Answered;)

2009-01-15T22:45:00.000-05:00

As most of you know by now my husband is very proud of his Scottish ancestry.

His mother was born and raised in Glasgow. She lived there until she moved to Canada in her early teens. I love her accent, and it's still as strong as ever...hubby says he doesn't hear it!
He wore a kilt on our wedding day...and often people asked if he wore anything under that kilt...

And of course in true Scottish form he never answered....
It's time for the truth to be set free (lol);)

Literally!! (he he)

Now did you really think I would show you that? Not to worry no Full Monty's on this page it's PG - 13 for goodness sakes! LOL

French;)

xoxoxox

Wordless Wednesday??

2009-01-14T17:41:00.003-05:00

Hugs French;)

Oops She did "IT" again;)

2009-01-14T00:01:00.002-05:00

Tagged by Bo;0) over here

1.Go to the the 4th folder where you keep your pictures on your computer.
*
2. Post the 4th picture in the folder.
*
3. Explain the photo.
*
4. Tag 4 fellow bloggers to join in the fun!

Now before you all get on me about the cussing...please hear me out~~~~ I have been going through a rather difficult time and a dear friend sent this to me as a joke to cheer me up! "YOU know who you are out there" ahem and she DOES live in blogland.....so when I have a difficult day or a difficult time I always remember this and say "fuck it" some things just have to go in this bucket; because sometimes I get overwhelmed and even bloggerwhelmed so I have to remember I am not a superwoman and I surely do not own an invisible plane. There I go aging myself again (rats)!! Don't act as though you have never heard the word...I use it more than I should, and some days more than others;) The picture does make me smile though and reminds me of what is really important and the rest........well they can take a number like everyone else.....there is only ONE of me (thank goodness, says hubby!) So remember call it what you want to.....but sometimes you just have to say "Blank_____ it" insert your word of choice here"......and put the problems away in the bucket....

The 4 blogger's I would like to share this with in no particular order

1. Tootsie

2. Donna Marie

3. Donna (Squaw Mama)

4. Robyn

Some of you may laugh an giggle others may grunt in disgust (I hope not)... BUT I followed directions and the rules this time...so don't be doggin' me out for following rules....because I usually don't;)
Hugs and love
French;)
xoxoxo

Tablescape Tuesday

2009-01-12T21:06:00.009-05:00

Hosted by none other than Susan at

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

OK so I am totally cheating this week....I had no time to put anything together so I found these pictures that I took in June...this was my daughter's graduation dinner at home.

We had a simple gathering with my in-laws that drove all the way in from Canada to be with her... on her big day!! I decided to try and impress them just a little by throwing this table scape together for them;) Just kidding Mum xoxo

Cost of the table scape $20 includes candles, tablecloth, sand and vases..the rest was stuff I already had;)

Cost of spending time with family, and having a daughter that started college yesterday and is SINGLE.....and finally on the right path

priceless.......

Hugs and have a great day;)

French

xoxoxox

Tablescape Tuesday ummm sort of?

2009-01-05T23:00:00.000-05:00

As you can see most of the holiday decorations are put away...although a few still linger;)

Those that have followed my blog know I am not much of a drinker...in fact other than the occasional glass of wine with dinner it's rare to see me with anything other than a coffee in my hand. But if I do indulge I can't deny Martini's would be my drink of choice.

Let's settle in after all the holiday hubbub, and let's have cocktail hour for a job well done everyone!!

Cocktails for two;) With none other than my favorite flavor for mixing sour apple Martini's..of course you have to have something sweet (for her) the chocolate and something salty the peanuts (for him);)

So put your feet up, the craziness of the holidays are over with and it's a brand New Year to look forward to. The past is behind us and we look forward...... anticipating what lies ahead.

Looks like they are trying to sneak a kiss in!

Hope everyone has a wonderful New Year filled with beautiful memories of family and friends! Take pleasure in the small things, sometimes we often overlook them. And if all else fails remember one thing.....
"Insanity is described as repeating the same thing over and over and expecting different results". Step outside of the situation and ask yourself what can I do differently to change the course of action...maybe a small shift is all you need;)
Enjoy the recipes just remember no drinking and blogging...as this may lead to drinking and dialing which is NEVER recommended (lol)!!

Sour Apple Martini
1 oz Cointreau
1 oz Vodka
2 oz Sour Apple Mix
Shake with ice and strain into a Martini glass

White Cosmopolitan
1 oz Cointreau
2 oz Vodka
Ocean Spray white cranberry juice
Fresh Lime juice
Shake with ice and strain into a Martini glass

Lemon Drop Martini
1 oz Cointreau
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Lemon juice
Shake with ice and strain into a Martini glass

Enjoy life to the fullest and NEVER look back unless your going that way;)
Hugs French;)
xoxoxoxo

New Year's Resolutions.....hmmmm????

2009-01-03T16:24:00.003-05:00

This is the body I want....(yeah right?) Have you seen her dancing on Dancing with the Stars? She is truly amazing!

I want his talent in decorating and I would love to make people smile the way he does on the reveals....... you know that warm and fuzzy feeling you get when you make someone really happy! Oh and having his budget would really help!;)

I want to have her voice.....(Dogs hear me singing and run!!) No Joke!

I want my hubby to be as romantic as Edward is in "Twilight"...I guess it would take 300+ years to be alive (lol) Just kidding honey!

I want her writing skills and luck she had with "Twilight" as I attempt to write a book I may never finish or be happy with......

I want a closet just for my shoes that looks just like this one;) Hey a girl can dream can't she? Oh wait I need the shoes too! Any donations out there?

I want to be able to cook like her..... and actually enjoy it too! Oh never mind let's just have her cook for me every day...that would be better;)

I want his sense of humor....and I want to make people laugh until their bellies hurt!

I want her wardrobe.......and be able to pull it off only as she can! Stunning!

Last but not least I want to own a pair of these (sigh)....Christian LeBoutin shoes..... Why? I don't know because I surely can't wear them often but hey that means they would last forever right?

Just one of those things that is totally ridiculously pointless but why not?

So there.....these are my New Year's resolutions....which ones do you think are actually attainable this year? I am finally feeling better! Thanks for all the well wishes! Let's have a great

!!!2009!!!

Hugs French;)

xoxoxo

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T20:30:00.000-05:00

My dear sweet ladies I promise to get around to each and every one of you but this bug has gotten the best of me and I am down and out for the count, fever, chills, aches and pains not to mention hordes of tissues and a constant runny nose! I wish you all the very best this New Year and my hopes and prayers for all of you to get your wishes! This year has proven that friendships CAN be made despite, age, color, faith, and beliefs...when push comes to shove when we needed one another we stuck together! The world would be a much happier place if they all blogged? N'est ce pas?

Je vous aimes beaucoup!!!

Hugs French ;0 )

x0x0x0

Tablescape Tuesday

2008-12-30T00:01:00.003-05:00

Tablescape Tuesday hosted by Susan at: http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

So this time I decided to share a simple table scape with our everyday dishes!

Trust me most days this is NOT how it looks...not even close (lol)
You see this precious little fellow? This was a gift and he holds a bottle of wine isn't he cute?

I added a little Christmas decor to make it look pretty!

I know it's weird to see the palms with the Christmas decor but hey on Christmas eve it was 73 degrees here! I love the mosaic candle holder the reflection it gives off in the evening is incredible!

A close up of the glasses with the palm trees!

Table for four please!

I think this little doggie is so cute! You see my Tally in the background trying desperately to get into the picture!

I tried to get some pictures of the table on Christmas eve. Every year we have a drop in and this year was no different! We had a total of 27 people that dropped in! I didn't have all the food on the table yet but here's a small preview of most of it! I know bad blogger right?

Where's the shrimp? Oh yeah....had no room in my fridge had to store it at the neighbor's!
G-man go get the shrimp please!

We had a great drop in! The only thing missing of course is all of our friends and family from Canada! Maybe next year?

Hope you all have a great day and the Happiest of New Year's to ALL!!

Hugs Lisa and G-man
xoxox

I want to share really I do but......

2008-12-28T22:56:00.002-05:00

I was taught in kindergarten to share....but they never explained that some things shouldn't be shared..... and this I won't share with you ladies! Hubby has been sick for a week with a miserable cold that has had him down and out for almost a week... of course I refused to kiss him, wiped everything around him, made him stay out of the kitchen while I cooked..everything!!!

Trying to avoid walking around in a daze like he has for the last week.....from the couch to the bed, with a box of tissues in hand..

My attempts have been pointless, I have been rendered defenseless....against these cruel creatures.....

Instead, I find that tissues actually do multiply when sitting for too long... they are everywhere and today is only day 1...."Oh joy is me"!!!

I guess I will have to resort to this.....UGH!

Thanks honey....did ya really have to share????

Hope everyone had a wonderful safe holiday....

I'll be around just moving at a snail's pace with Kleenex in hand;0)

Hugs French xoxox

Twas the Night Before Xmas Blogger Style;0)

2008-12-23T21:42:00.004-05:00

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a PC was stirring, not even a mouse.

The laptops were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St Nikki would email them there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of blogging danced in their heads.

And Gollum in her ‘kerchief, and ME in my cap,

Had just settled our brains for a long writer’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

We sprang from the bed to hear a plate shatter.

Away to the window we flew like a flash,

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

But what was the lustre of the objects below?

When, what to our wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature mouse, and eight tiny blog dears.

With a sweet lady driver, so quick and so witty,

We knew in a moment it must be St Nikki

More rapid than eagles her coursers they came,

She whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Donna! now, Kathy! now, Shelia and Tiney! On, Bridget! On, Buffie! on, Bo and on Terrie!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now eat away! Blog away! Stash away all!

As Raquel prefers to swim while Schmecky only to fly,

When they meet with obstacles, Mrs. Ben and Naz saying "oh my".

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleigh full of plates, and all that fabric too?

And then, in a twinkling, we heard on the roof

The bloggers all stealing stuff seemingly aloof!

As we drew in our heads, and were turning around,

Down the chimney Nikki came with a mighty bound.

All dressed in fur, from her head to her feet,

And her bags were all full,.... saying where do we meet?

A bundle of stuff she had flung on her back,

Deb screamed "it's a peddler", quick get her pack!

Her eyes-how they twinkled! her dimples how merry!

Her cheeks were like roses, her nose like a cherry!

Her droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the white of her teeth were as white as the snow.

The remains of a tree she held tight in her teeth,

Chris slapped her hand and said "Hey that's my wreath!".

She had a beautiful face, and comments galore,

She was so pleasant, it was obviously no chore!

She was bubbly she was, a right jolly elf,

Tootsie laughed when she saw her, in spite of herself!

A wink of her eye and a twist of her head,

Soon let Jill know she had nothing to dread.

She spoke not a word, but went straight to her work,

And filled all the comments, then turned with a jerk.

And laying her finger aside of her nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney she rose!

She sprang to her sleigh, to her team gave a wish list,

And away they all flew quickly, disappearing in the mist .

But we heard her exclaim, ‘ere she drove out of sight,

"Happy Christmas to all, and to Ozzie a good-night!"

Sorry I couldn't get all the names in I tried!!!! I had to use the ones that rhymed better, so Nikki you got the starring role;)... There are just so many of you wonderful ladies!! I want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart...for being kind, and patient, for your support, your thoughtfulness and for teaching me, but most of all for being my friends~~~

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!

LOVE LISA, GORDON, SAMANTHA AND JACOB

XOXOXO

and Tally too;)

Tablescape Tuesday and A Partridge on a Pear Table?

2008-12-23T00:01:00.002-05:00

My second table scape Tuesday, and literally my second table scape ever!; which is hosted by Susan over here
I am honored to be part of this fun activity considering all the experts out there but I am truly enjoying trying all the different things;)

This is my ode to the famous Christmas song "A Partridge in a Pear Tree" except my version is "A Partridge on my Pear Table" (winks;) Aren't these little birds precious!! Only $3 each on sale at the local fabric store!!(woohoo)! The glittering pears from TJ Maxx as well as the candle holders I lusted after (Lynne) it's the bling that kept calling my name ( psst French buy us!!) so after the fourth visit I broke down and bought them! The white tablecloth has little silver snowflakes!!

I only set the table for four this time, colors are silver, white, black and a hint of purple and gold...weird combination yet I think it works;)

The small plates are part of a full set I received from my mother-in-law because she said I would appreciate them (who knew) wait it gets better!

Here are the candle holders I lusted after;) I don't know why...... they just looked so different then what I would usually buy and I immediately thought of the color scheme to use it with!

It's odd seeing silver with all the gold in my room but it's a definite contrast!

Look at the back of the small plates! I actually have a full setting of 4 (minus one teacup that got broken) sigh~~~~

Here's my surprise!!! I totally forgot my mother-in-law had given these to me!!! They were well hidden up in that cabinet you know the one you never go into! And to my surprise.... See how the light makes the colors in the plate look gold? They really are silver except in different light they can look gold too they work with both colors (how great is that!)

Look at the back!!!! I immediately screamed like a sissy girl (lol Picket!) I had no idea, so of course I had to look them up online to find out if I could get more of the set because all I have is 8 dinner plates and I can get them! The pattern is Wild Oats.....(kind of suitable for me;)

So here's my second table scape and many many thanks to all you ladies that have inspired me to try this and continue playing with different ideas!!
These are all the dishes I have except for the ones we use every day which I may do a simple every day table scape with just for fun!

Have a wonderful tour during the Table scape Tuesday and keep the ideas coming;)

Hugs and Happy Holidays!!

Lisa and Gordon

Samantha and Jacob

Tally too;)

xoxoxox

Christmas Past 1967

2008-12-21T13:32:00.005-05:00

While doing some much needed housework...(yuck) I came upon this picture of my sweet G-man! He was only 2 years old but the look on his face at Christmas signifies what the true meaning of Christmas is...look at the anticipation in his beautiful eyes as he gets ready to open a present.....Love you sweetheart!

Here at 42 still looking as handsome as ever!

Hugs French xoxoxox

Proud Mama

2008-12-20T11:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday afternoon my son had his first mini-concert. This is his first year playing an instrument and the violin no less!! I was truly amazed at how good they were! I totally expected to hear somebody completely out of tune but they weren't!!!! They were soooo good! He was all dressed up in his black suit and white shirt.... There you see the total concentration on his face when he played....he loved it! He said it made him realize how people felt performing on stage as musicians. He wants a guitar for Christmas and I think Santa is bringing him one(winks;)! He is too darned pretty to be a boy, but hey I am totally biased!!! Below is the first video I have uploaded here to blogger I hope it works! My video taking needs practice;) Hugs French;) xoxo

Thursday Thirteen Random Rants.....

2008-12-18T14:41:00.003-05:00

1. I realize how much a little time and faith can heal...my daughter and I went to register her at school yesterday she had finally made a decision to go to college and she is interested in becoming a pharmacist no less....who knows where she will end up but I am so proud that she finally took the first step in the RIGHT direction.
2. I had no idea I would enjoy the table scape Tuesday so much big thanks to Susan for the introduction!
3. I survived the MRI unscathed...results negative for TOS but still continuing more testing...the vascular surgeon thinks it might be RSD Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (ugh)
4. Medical bills suck!
5. What ever happened to Mr. Bill anyway? (lol)
6. I think I need a vacation away from MYSELF! ( Is that possible?)
7. Life would be so much easier if we all had Oprah's money (or would it?)!
8. Note to self..... never go get a $40 dollar haircut when your in a pissy, ( I need a change!) mood they will always screw it up and cut it WAY too short ( evidence below)!
9. Menopause sucks! Who invented wrinkles? I hate them!
10. My short term memory is getting terrible WHY???( never mind I can't remember)
11. I need to learn how to use power tools!
12. I realized I now have a new addiction (table scapes and bling hello Lynne??) (lol)
13. You will all think I am crazy after this post ( then again maybe you already knew I was and it's just a new discovery for me, or maybe I knew...... and forgot?)

Hugs and please no laughing at the new haircut (it will grow back and not look chopped up....yes or no?)
Seriously it's a bad haircut but I do the best I can with it until it can be fixed!

Hugs and much Love from the Scrooge ( BAH HUMBUG!)

French xoxoxo

My First Tablescape Tuesday

2008-12-15T23:31:00.002-05:00

This is my first attempt at a tablescape...and it's actually the one I did last Christmas for RMS...

Plain white dishes, on gold chargers, brown napkins with a bow tied around it;) The bows I got from the dollar store! Assorted nuts in the two smaller glass dishes....

Little name tags that are little ornaments...
The deer I got from Target with a little berry around it and two miniature Christmas trees from Michael's which I sprayed with fake snow for this year...

Gold tablecloth with three runners I made using one full table cloth just cut and sewed them;)

Nothing fancy, just a little something I did to try it! Maybe one day I will get some pretty dishes and try this again;)

Hugs French xoxox

2008-12-10T22:15:00.002-05:00

I found this image on another blog months ago and decided to finally use it! I am not sure even what they had used it for, but this is my version! Thirteen random things...

1. I wish I could be that little girl ( up there ) again some days....but know what I know today...

2. I know that there are only 13 days left for Christmas shopping and I have yet to start...

3. I know that I have spent far too much time visiting doctors these days...and it will only get worse....

4. I know that my husband has finally gained the courage to set a plan in motion and stick to it! (I'm proud of you honey!)

5. I know that my daughter is slowly getting on the right path and for that I am truly grateful!

6. I know that at Christmas I really do miss my family more than any other time of year...

7. I know that when your down in the dumps people always seem to kick you harder...

8. I know that life has a way of reminding you of what is truly important.....

9. I know that I totally suck at sending my gifts and I have NOT forgotten about my 3 winners and only hope they can forgive me....

10. I know that RMS ain't what it used to be.....

11. I know that because of RMS I have met some of the most wonderful people that I am truly honored to call friends, despite our differences, despite the distance and despite the fact that most I have never met....

12. I know that I am far more insecure than I would have most people believe....

13. I know that or at least hope some will share their thirteen with me...even if only here in a comment...

Hugs and much love French;) xoxoxo

Blogger Issues!!!

2008-12-08T09:45:00.003-05:00

I am having serious blogger issues and it's driving me crazy! Is anyone else having these issues? My blog roll list isn't updating as it should it's about 12 hours off schedule and the blogopera off by about 18 hours or so, despite the fact that there is a new post there?

If someone doesn't help me figure this out I may be doing this soon! I have scoured the help pages and come up empty handed! There is nothing concrete that discussed this issue. Is anyone else having this problem? If so can you help me? This is driving me over the edge and I can't stand it anymore!

Please help!!!

French;) xoxox

Truth or Dare?

2008-12-03T00:01:00.002-05:00

When you receive the prize, you must write a post showing it, together with the name of who has given it to you, and link them back. Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in their content or design. Show their names and links and leave them a comment informing that they were prized with 'Honest Weblog'. List [if you can and/or dare] at least ten honest things about yourself. Then, pass it on!

First a big thank you to Melissa for this award and the opportunity to try this out;) You can go see her here! She is so cute and full of life and just down right loveable!

OK so here is my list of 10:

1. I have coffee on first thing in the morning and the last cup at about 10 PM I can't live without coffee!

2. I have a secret addiction to pastries not chocolate!

3. Although I enjoy work, I have loved being off despite good and bad days...( it just doesn't pay enough)!

4. I have learned so much about decorating from my dearest friend Kelly who I met via RMS and who now lives really close to me;)

5. The most romantic thing my G-man did for me was plan a surprise dinner for two in Jamaica, candles, flower petals etc...it was truly dreamy!

6. While working as a Flight Attendant our crew was invited to eat dinner with the Prime Minister of Guyana Sam Hinds, we were picked up in a bullet proof car (yikes)!

7. I was never the athletic type, nor did I ever sing or play an instrument but I do wish I would have........ I wanted to learn the play the drums but never did!

8. I have been to the Louvre in Paris

9. I spoke French before I spoke English it was my first language....now I can hardly read or write it but I still understand it!

10. I visited the site of the famous Jonestown Cult in Guyana where the massacre took place, it was eerie and I didn't like it one bit...read more here if interested.

Now I would like to share this with:

1.Heather (Rue)

2.Chris

3. Raquel

4. Robyn

5. Donna Marie

6. Jill

7. Bo

So here's my list...if you can that's great if not no biggie! Have fun with it;) French xoxox

Gollum's Story #3 per Jacob & Merci Beaucoup!

2008-12-01T20:00:00.002-05:00

Jacob in his new room;0)

Jacob's story...I have written it exactly as he did, spelling, punctuation and all...and if I may for just a minute (brag about him)...Jacob at a very early age was a stutterer, he ended up having to take speech classes in school, at times even his teachers really gave him a hard time. Only 3 of his six teachers "got him" if you know what I mean. We have always said that we thought he had an "old soul" he's so much wiser than a child his age should be...in so many ways! Well, just last month we were told he didn't need speech classes anymore (thank goodness!) I think being in those classes toyed with his self worth and abilities. Last year at the end of the school year they done some testing, and lo' and behold we got a call last week asking if they could test him for the AGP program (gifted program). We said "yes" of course because both G-man and I have thought the child was far too bright and that's what the problems were in school.( but they wouldn't listen to us)! So last week we get a call, he is being moved into the "gifted" program not only that, he tested in the 97th pecentile for the state! Now if those who I will leave nameless ever tell me again that my child is disruptive, and needs help I say this !! "

"He was friggin' bored you dumb-asses"
Sorry I got carried away there!

So here is Jacob's story....... Before you read this please know I cheated...I gave the exercise to my 10 year old son, told him to choose a picture, showed him the words and let him pick out the ones he wanted, and said write whatever you want, and make it a short story.

Titled
Bleeding Love
"Look out" everyone said. We all kept on running, they were coming...fast. Some were caught by the Griffins and were taken as hostages. Each gleaming shine of daylight forced us into the dark by the blizzard that was crushing our hope of living....and love. I could never find my true love, if I'm going to run I said to myself each day, but it never gave me the courage though. Each day I would go hunting for food and my true love, if I found food I would take a single lick and stuff it all in mouth. If I found love she'd be lying there......dead. One day when I was trying to find food again, I was in a deep and long alley. I heard laughter in a room. It sounded like a woman and a boy, I opened the door and there was my true love....standing there laughing with her son. "hello" I said. "Hello" she said back. "Can I sit down?" I asked. "Yes" she said back. And suddenly we kissed. "Ewwww" said the boy. "What's your name" I asked. "Calina" she said. "What's yours?"......"I don't know....I never had a name" I said. She looked surprised then she had a thinking face on. "How about hmmmm Zackary" "that's my name!" said the boy. "Zackary it is" I said. We gave each other another little kiss and then I knew this was my true love....
The End

Kathy, one of the sweetest people in blog-land, and a fellow RMS'er has passed along this wonderful award to me because she thinks my blog is fabulous, if you pop over to see Kathy at Casa Dolce Casa you will see that not only does Kathy have a fabulous blog but that Kathy herself is uber fabulous too. I mean seriously.... she travels the world, and still finds time to visit us all too! I am truly flattered to receive this award from you Kathy, Merci Beaucoup mon ami.
Here are the rules:
Copy and paste the rules and instructions in your post.
When you post about receiving this award, make sure you include who gave you the award and link it back to them.

Post five of your addictions.
Add the award image.
Let your winners know you gave them an award by leaving them a comment on their blog.

OK so you all know by now I hate following rules and I have noticed so many getting this lovely award .... so if you haven't received this and realize I was having a total blonde moment please take it from me cause I love to share;) I learned to share in kindergarten (lol)!!
My 5 addictions (this is too easy!)
1. Blogging
2. Writing
3. Decorating
4. Coffee
5. Movies
Hugs to all and have a great one;) French
PS Jacob is dying to see all your replies;) He got very excited about this!!

Sheryl got your message this is the best one I have so far still needs a little tweaking and it was dark but Ihope you can see it;) French

I'm Addicted to JRM....move over George Clooney!!

2008-11-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

OK so I am usually not the kind to lust crazily over men....but I have become totally, ridiculously

addicted to this man....if you haven't seen the movie AUGUST RUSH then you are

totally missing out....not only is this a wonderful feel good movie but it's nothing shy of

spectacular to me...the music score alone is unbelievable!! I have even gone as far as doing as
all research about this man and all he has appeared in...let's just say that I now have my

Christmas wish list but I am sure it doesn't include this ridiculously, amazingly, talented, hunk of
a man Jonathan Rhys (pronounced Reese) Meyers.......born July 27th, 1977 Dublin Ireland...

That's right ladies he talks with a Irish accent too.....(sigh)! and the kicker for me was that he is a huge fan of Bob Marley......(hmmmm)

See for yourself and if you don't agree please don't burst my bubble dammit it's been a long time since George could even be remotely replaced to me!! I know this movie is a year old but I don't get to watch movies like I used to so...if you have seen it tell me what you think if you haven't then get your butt off the sofa run, and I mean fast to the nearest movie store!

Trust me he's worth it!

(What's really cute is G-man is actually jealous of this post, shucks he really does still love the crap out of me, how cute is that)!!

Hugs and have a great one;) French xoxoxo

Before and After and Extra's

2008-11-28T15:16:00.005-05:00

Some of you may remember the house that Kelly and I did a complete re-do on for resale purposes, well this is the new home and the dining room which I am currently working on.

These are the before pics....you'll have to wait for the after pics;)
This entire room including furniture is being done on a $250.00 budget and it hasn't been easy but it's getting there!

These are two tables purchased at a second hand store solid oak both for $25.00

They will eventually be used for a spare room, a room for her mother that is also in the works;)

This is what they look like after...not bad for $25.00 and some paint!

This is the fabric I am using to make new curtains for my bedroom just a sneak peek!

This is Jacob's room before...it was a cute little boy's room, but alas he is not a little boy anymore;(

This was what he and I agreed on for an inspiration room.

This is his room now the after..total makeover cost $150.00

That cost includes material for coverlet, paint, map, blinds and a few miscellaneous accessories, and curtains. The curtains were a simple cream color and I added the black ribbon stripe for a slightly different look. I would have loved to reconfigure the furniture in the space but due to the trundle and size of the room this allows the best function of the space.
The map I bought online and hubby bought some molding we painted it and now it looks framed and keeps the edges from tearing.

The leopard print rug I had in storage and is placed strategically in the room to hide all the darned stains he has made (boys), and the small table I also had in storage, painted it and voila a new bedside table!
He loves it, and has even been keeping it clean! Even his friends think it's really cool!

(WTG MOM!!;)

This is a close up of the coverlet, I attached quilting fabric to the back giving a more tailored look, it only goes down about 3/4 of the way down but gives the effect I wanted!
So just a few of the things I have been up to (phew)!

Hope everyone has had a wonderful Thanksgiving and is filled to the brim!

Back to work;)

Hugs and kisses xoxoxo Lisa

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T11:52:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours!!

Have a blessed day;)

Hugs Lisa, Gordon, Samantha and Jacob(Tally too)!! xoxoxo

Gollum's exercise continued....Part 2

2008-11-25T00:05:00.001-05:00

Genevieve had spent most of the day preparing for the dinner party. She looked at the clock and knew she had just enough time to get herself ready. She ran up the stairs and quickly changed clothes. She stood in front of the mirror and and let out a heavy sigh, "this is as good as it gets" she mumbled. Out of no where Marcel appeared and said "you look gorgeous Genevieve". He leaned in and kissed her forehead. She was sure she could already smell whisky on his breath. " I see you started early, sweetheart". He gave her a sheepish grin, feeling guilty. "I'm sorry I didn't even pour you a glass of wine". "That's OK, I am almost finished..... now I am definitely ready to have one". He quickly disappeared. As she walked back out to the terrace she admired the work she had done. The table looked perfectly set and she was proud of her accomplishment. It wasn't a typical setting and she hoped the bosses wife, Sarah would be impressed. As she sipped her wine she faintly heard the doorbell and instantly a lump rose in her throat. She made her way to the door, pressing her clothes with her hands, took a deep breath and answered the door. She opened the door and instantly let out a gasp. There stood Marcel's boss Findlay McLean wearing a full Scottish ensemble kilt and all. "Well hello there wee lassie, you dinnie think I would come to the festivities not wearing me tartan did ya? He then patted his sporran that laid in front of his burgundy plaid kilt. Genevieve stood speechless, she looked over at his wife Sarah for support. "Aye missie, can ya believe this crazy man o' mine". Suddenly she could hear Marcel laughing in the background, they all began laughing. She immediately realized that they had played a practical joke on her, she found herself starting to laugh uncontrollably. The ice had been broken. Marcel was right they were a wonderful couple and had a great sense of humor. They talked for hours, he reminisced about wanting to travel back to the highlands one day to see what he called the "Motherland". Not only had she landed the job, but she was sure this was the first of many evenings they would share with the McLean's.

The Moral of the Story

2008-11-24T10:00:00.001-05:00

There was once a bird who wanted to defy the norm. It was winter and no he wasn't going to fly south. After a few days in the cold blizzards, he couldn't take it anymore and started off to the south. Halfway there his wings froze and he plummeted to the ground below. He knew he was a goner and he made the dumbest mistake ever. Soon a horse passed by and crapped on the small bird. The heat of the shit warmed him and defrosted his wings. Finally able to breathe and move freely, the bird was ecstatic and chirping in joy. A cat in a nearby bush heard the bird and pounced on the bird, swallowing him in one gulp.

Moral of the Story:
If everyone shits on you it doesn't mean that their your enemy.
All those who get you out of shit aren't necessarily your friends, and if you're warm and happy in your pile of shit....keep your mouth shut! (lol)

Hopefully, your giggle for the day!

Hugs French ;)

Gollum's Story

2008-11-22T09:25:00.004-05:00

As she turned over in bed, she was mesmerized by his features. She reached out and brushed her hand lightly against his cheek. His skin was so smooth. "Is it time to get up?" he mumbled in a groggy voice. "I think so, it's daylight" Genevieve replied. He looked over at the clock and pulled the blankets back over his head. She giggled and threw the pillow at him as she climbed out of bed. She had a busy day ahead and wanted to get an early start. Marcel just wasn't a morning person and he loved to tease her about that. He knew that soon enough he would smell her cinnamon cappuccino brewing and that would be his cue to get up.

As she stood in the shower she thought about all the finishing touches that needed to be done before the dinner party. She was anxious to meet his business partner and wife. They had only been dating a few months and Marcel spoke so highly of his boss, and she wanted to be sure to make a good impression. She was finally being invited into his circle of friends and she knew that was a big deal for him. She remembered the words his mother had spoken to her "you know Marcel is the apple of my eye, but he sees something in you Genevieve, something I have also seen, your special to him, and I see it every time he looks at you". His mother had spoken those words to her only two weeks ago, and it sent shivers up her spine every time she thought about it. As she got out of the shower and walked down the stairs she started making a mental list of all the things she still needed to get from the store. She walked into the kitchen and grabbed her cappuccino and went to her computer desk. She needed to check the weather, she hoped the weatherman hadn't changed the forecast which she had worried about. The last thing she wanted to worry about was rain on the evening of their first dinner party. Marcel came down the stairs all the while rubbing his eyes and headed straight for the coffee. "Well, are they calling for a downpour yet?" he teased. She gave him that look and he retreated to the front door to grab the morning paper. "Well I am off to pick up a few last minute items, anything I need to remember?" she asked. "Yes, they're friends of mine Genevieve try not to get too stressed about it...OK?" She grabbed her keys and was out the door.

"Easy for him to say" she uttered to herself. Not only did she have to impress his boss but Marcel had raved about her interior design skills after the bosses wife had mentioned she wanted to hire a new designer for their summer home. She held her breath for a moment and let it out. Tonight could be the beginning of a truly promising career and she knew that everything was riding on it. How typical of a man to not understand that. She put the car in reverse and let the day finally begin.....

Well this was more difficult than it looked but it was fun;) The idea came from Gollum's blog which can be found here if you would like to play along;) http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/
French~~~xoxox

Something Special!

2008-11-20T10:34:00.002-05:00

I have made this award to give to all of those that visit me regularly and have sent their birthday wishes! There's no meme to do, there are no rules you just have to share it with those that are dear to your heart as I am sharing this with all of YOU!

This is a thank you so much!

I have been crazy busy and just feeling a little under the weather so I have a lot of catching up to do! I am also having trouble with my blog roll which is not updating properly so half the time I don't even know some of you have posted until I actually go to your blog! (ugh) On another note.....I do not want to remove anyone from the blogopera so if I was misunderstood I apologize for that! I just don't want to hurt any one's feelings if their part is not as large as they might have hoped! So unless you absolutely want to be removed you won't be unless of course it becomes part of the story! I hope to get back to normal soon, as much as I didn't want to admit it..... the shoulder does bother me when typing a lot! I know with Thanksgiving around the corner everyone will be getting busier! Just know I am sending the warmest wishes your way and one of the things I am thankful for is all the friendships I have made this year here in blogland! So please take this badge and display it proudly!

Hugs and many thanks

French;) xoxoxox

Take a trip down memory lane with me....

2008-11-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

Born November 19th, 1966 in Canada

With my grandma at about 6 years old

In California at 10 years old with my friend Kim who had the same birthday! My mom met her mom at the hospital and they both delivered the same day!

Me acting goofy at about 12 years old

My grade 8 school picture don't laugh at my Farrah Fawcett hair!!

Age 15 during a photo shoot for my dance school I hated this picture and still do!

My years as a flight attendant my friend Daniel he was a model I think we were in Paris? Can't remember....must be the age thing! Don't I look bitchy here! ??

Having a drink in London...Gatwick hotel we stayed at! LGW

Me acting goofy wishing I had the pilots salary!

1990 April 21st my wedding day to my Scottish hunk G-man;)

Don't be looking up that kilt Justine!

Go ahead and laugh~~~ me pregnant with Sam she weighed 8 pounds 8 ounces!

Me prego again with Jacob he weighed 9 pounds 1 ounce and he was early by 2 weeks!

(fat bastard!)lol

I can't believe I actually went to a concert with one of my kids! I won tickets to see the GooGoo Dolls/ Counting Crows and went with Samantha!

In Jamaica where I wished I was right now! 2008 Here's to me and all of YOU!

ME and hubby in Jamaica the only place I truly feel at peace! 2008

I can't believe I am 42 years old! If someone would have told that teenager up there I would have done what I have in my lifetime and survived it......if someone would have told me I would live in a foreign country.......if someone told me I would marry the most wonderful man that truly adores me.....if someone would have told me I would have two of the most beautiful children.......if someone told me.........I would never believe them!

Hope you enjoyed the trip with me;)

Frenchfry xoxoxo

Awards and Miscellaneous

2008-11-16T01:35:00.003-05:00

I received two bookworm awards the other day, from Chris and Robyn

Thank YOU so much ladies;)
As you know, they always come with rules.
Pass this on to 5 blogging friends.
Open the closest book to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56.
Write the 5th sentence, as well as two to five sentences following that...

So here it goes....this book is always within my reach

"The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne

"If you have an intuitive or instinctive feeling, follow it, and you will find that the Universe is magnetically moving you to receive what you asked for. Remember that you are a magnet, attracting everything to you. When you have gotten clear in your mind about what you want, you have become a magnet to draw those things to you, and those things you want are magnetized to you in return. The more you practice and begin to see the law of attraction bringing things to you, the greater the magnet you will become, because you will add the power of faith, belief and knowing."

"Think of a car driving through the night. The headlights only go two hundred feet forward, and you can make it all the way from California to New York driving through the dark, because all you have to see is the next two hundred feet. And that's how life tends to unfold before us. If we just trust that the next two hundred feet will unfold after that,your life will keep unfolding. And it will eventually get you to the destination of whatever it is you truly want, because you want it." Jack Canfield

I think several have already received this since I have been MIA for the last week...so forgive me if you have already received this award but in no particular order

1. Betty at http://bettywiens.blogspot.com/

2. Jill at http://jillsbelieveitornot.blogspot.com/

3. Buffie at http://buffiesblaaaahg.blogspot.com/

4. Michael at http://mrkaser.blogspot.com/

5. Bre at http://chantillygrace.blogspot.com/

Here's hoping I picked 5 that haven't already done it! If you haven't visited these people you need to and let them know I sent you;)

I have been missing in action and trying to stay busy. Writing, and decorating as I said. The doctor put my appt off until this coming Tuesday (ugh!) Almost finished Jacob's room and will post that soon, as well as another project I have been working on! Now I have to try and catch up to all the millions of posts I have missed! (sigh)

PS If you would rather be removed from the Blogge'ville story please let me know so I can take care of it! There's no point in having characters that aren't following the story. It's been difficult trying to keep it all from getting too confusing and I have the feeling there are some who would rather be removed, or at the very least have lost interest... so please I will take no offense just let me know Thanks;) French

MOM and DAD~~~I MISS YOU!!!!

2008-11-10T22:58:00.007-05:00

"Mom" What a little hottie she was;)

"Dad" look at how handsome he is....and so young too!

This is one of my favorite pictures of them it was at a friends wedding!

This was New Year's eve 1990 4 months before we were married...Dad acting the fool as usual! (ha ha) Go ahead laugh at my perm~~~it was the style then darnit it all!

Samantha's first birthday she was soooo cute~~~love this pic of me and mom!

Proud grandpa with Samantha!

Three generations....me, my mom and her mom ( my grandmother) she was a seamstress and every time I sew I ask for her helping hands and guidance...still chokes me up....I miss her!
"Thanks for your help grandma with making Jacob's coverlet"

Daddy showing off his muscles! Not bad for an old guy huh? ( lol just kidding dad)

The tattoo is a sword with the words "Death before Dishonor"

Something he taught me at a very young age!

My mom with Jacob at 3 days old-----probably one of my favorite pictures of my mom EVER!

Visiting mom and dad after we moved~~this was taken at Canada's Wonderland for all my Canadian bloggers and commenter's;)

Mom trying to coax Sam to walk`~~~ didn't she look soooo cute here?

Picture of my parents holding Samantha the day she was born.....they were so happy and proud!

My parents the day of my wedding...how cute do they look?

Last summer...mom finally gave in and decided to not dye her hair anymore she just turned 60 in August....she still looks awesome to me!

My daddy with the most soft blue, gentle eyes you ever did see....

Mom has always shied away from the camera so it's never easy getting her picture (hoping with age she will get slower and make it easier to catch her< lol)

I hate that I live 900 miles away from mom and dad! I miss you both so much more than you will ever realize....when I am home and sick I miss you even more! Please hurry and retire daddy so you can come and stay awhile~~~~we all miss both of you so much! Daddy I know you think that emailing and blogging is impersonal at times but this is truly from the heart!

MOM & DAD~~~"I LOVE YOU"

~~~~Biggest hugs~~~~

"Halfpint"(you know what this means daddy)

xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Blogging friends I am feeling a little better, I will see the vascular surgeon Nov. 12 Wednesday morning;)

French xoxox

Punch Drunk Lab Rat!

2008-11-07T11:46:00.007-05:00

What I am trying to do.......

It awaits me.....it calls my name....

What I have done~~~this was navy blue and burgundy (ack)!

I painted it black as seen here but the rest awaits me and it's taking over my home!

What I have been doing (errr..... rather be doing)~~~~~ignore the mess!

Because all this darned medication has me feeling like this~~punch drunk!
The doctors aren't sure what I have~~~first they put me on Lyrica because they thought I was having symptoms of Hepetic neuralgia post Shingles which was what they thought was causing all of the numbness and pain in the left side of my face, shoulder and arms....then they tested me for Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis,

then they said I have Raynauds syndrome because my hand keep turning blue! I am serious!

(no shit) Now they say I have TOS Thoracic Outlet Syndrome!

I have to see a Vascular specialist next week (ugh)!

Not sure if I want to see him but my hand keeps doing this----(not my hand but similar)

All I know is I feel like a lab rat these days....xrays, MRI's, lab work and next week possibly an angiogram? (WTF?)

OK so there you have my life story not very interesting but I am starting to feel like a medical

freak!!! All the medical specialists out there and it has taken them 11 months! to figure this

out? If they had just listened to me the first time maybe, I wouldn't be feeling like a lab

rat! Anyway, hopefully next week we can get down to the real issue and get it resolved once and

for all!!! Wish me luck!

(PS I am a nurse and I have never heard of TOS~~~google it if you want to know what it is!)

Hugs French;) xoxoxo

Stuff

2008-11-03T00:01:00.004-05:00

Taking a brief hiatus...... concentrating on my health, family, writing and decorating my son's room....take care;) French

Stress...... an award and a gift post;)

2008-10-31T09:00:00.003-04:00

Yes I did I screamed like a sissy girl yesterday when this package arrived! I actually won something! Elizabeth over at http://ebogie.blogspot.com/ had a giveaway and I won! Here are all the goodies;) Thanks so much Elizabeth!!!

Shannon over at http://shannon-justagirl.blogspot.com/ shared this lovely award with me for all my work in Blogge'ville! Thanks so much my fellow South Cackalacky girl;)
I am suppose to list 6 things that make me happy that's an easy one

1. My Life at home

2.My Tally (dog)

3. Watching the sunset

4. Travelling to Jamaica

5. My friends

6.Making other people smile

I know that most have received this award BUT if you haven't and you stop by PLEASE consider it yours! All of my blog roll are some of the most Kreative people I know, so have at it you all deserve it:)

Well here's me! Pulling my hair out hoping I don't disappoint anyone with the BIG spectacle happening tomorrow night at 8PM over in Blogge'ville with the Masquerade Ball! Remember if you are taking part be sure to get caught up on the story because Saturday's will be a long one! It's filled with love, lust and reveals... and it's a true spectacle of events!!! For those that have been so kind and sent well wishes, I had my MRI yesterday still waiting on results and I am still not working! I feel like a monkey with all the tests they have been running maybe they will figure something out soon! Until we meet again!

Hugs and Love

Happy Halloween Everyone!!

French;)

xoxoxo

Apples vs. Grapes??

2008-10-29T01:53:00.005-04:00

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good but, easy. The apples at the top think something is wrong with them, when in reality they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now......men are like a fine wine. They begin as grapes, and it's up to the women to stomp the shit out of them until they turn out to be something acceptable to have dinner with....

Share this with all the good apples you know;)

Hugs French;)

The Indian

2008-10-24T21:50:00.002-04:00

The Indian With One Testicle

There once was an Indian who had only one testicle
and whose given name was 'Onestone'. He hated that
name and asked everyone not to call him Onestone.

After years and years of torment, Onestone finally
cracked and said,' If anyone calls me Onestone
again I will kill them!'

The word got around and nobody called
him that any more.

Then one day a young woman named Blue Bird
forgot and said, 'Good morning, Onestone.' He
jumped up, g rabbed her and took her deep into
the forest where he made love to her all day and
all night. He made love to her all the next day,
until Blue Bird died from exhaustion.

The word got around that Onestone meant what
he promised he would do. Years went by and no
one dared call him by his given name until A woman
named Yellow Bird returned to the village after being
away. Yellow Bird , who was Blue Bird's cousin, was
overjoyed when she saw Onestone. She hugged him
and said, 'Good to see you, Onestone.'

Onestone grabbed her, took her deep into the forest,

then he made love to her all day, made love to her all
night, made love to her all the next day, made love to
her all the next night, but Yellow Bird wouldn't die!

Why ???

OH, come on... take a guess !!!

Think about it !!!

You're going to love this !!!

Everyone knows...
You can't kill Two Birds
with OneStone !!!

Peace out!

Hope you all enjoy your weekend~~~

Gotta Love the British Newspapers!!!

2008-10-22T23:47:00.004-04:00

What else can I say? Hey I didn't write these, blame the "Bloody Brits"

Have a chuckle will ya!

French;)

The "KEY" to my dreams.....

2008-10-22T00:01:00.001-04:00

This is so exciting and now that I am posting this they may be sorry I found them, or they found me...(LOL)

I went over to their blog and discovered that they bought old keys and decorated them. Now that sounds fun as anything but they took it a step further. If you email them your dream, what ever it is...they decorate YOUR key and mail it to you with this lovely little note that says:

"Your Wish is Your Command"

Each key is decorated differently, and each key represents what YOU want most in life or your dreams....I am so happy this found me!!! Look out--- my dream may be coming true!! My key is black with sparkles and has a pretty little flower and ribbon attached and now I carry it every where with me...it's my new "good luck" charm!!

Check them out here, and leave them some love~~~Polly and Suzy you are the best!

Hugs French;)

You've been served!!!!!

2008-10-16T18:15:00.003-04:00

Melissa over at the http://thecrazydaisy31.blogspot.com/ little sweetheart shared this with me and I know I usually don't conform to the rules not because I don't want to I just hate trying to pick only a few from all the wonderful bloggers out there;)

*Mention the blog that gave you the reward and comment on their blog to let them know that you have posted there award. You also have to list 6 things you VALUE and 6 things you Don't VALUE. Lastly, you have to pass the award onto 6 other friends! So here it goes...6 things that I Value:

1. Trust.

2. My husband Gordon sometimes we have our moments but regardless 20 + years and counting I couldn't imagine life without him!

3. My two kids. They are my world!

4. My family without their support during good and bad times who's shoulder would I blow my nose on?

5. The friendships that I have. I admit that for whatever reason...I don't have too many...but the one's I do have are very, very special and valuable to me! They remind me of what's important and slap me when I need it~~they love me because of and despite my faults!

6. My patients more often than not I may be taking care of them but they humble me time and time again;)

Six thing's that I DO NOT value:

1. Cruelty to animals~~~enough said!

2. People that bitch about life and do nothing to change things! You are the designer of your destiny seek it and eventually it will come to you~~you never know until you try;) Believe in yourself and go after your dreams ALWAYS!!

3. Prejudice

4. Greed~I believe it's the ONE true evil in the world.

5. Laziness~~~I work a ton that's all I know, the values of today's society just isn't what it was years ago--- I see it all too often with new nurses that are afraid to get their hands dirty but expect to be paid the same as me who has done it for almost 20 years? wtf?? "Hello" your a new grad clean some shit and get over it and yourself! I hate those lazy (fuckers)!oops!

6. TAXES and INSURANCE~~we are being raped daily by these 2 things and the powers that be do nothing to change it other than hype a bunch of (bullshit)!!!!

Six blogs that I would like to share this with in no particular order~~~

1. Bo over here;)

2. Squawmamma over here;)

3. Kathy over here;)

4. Bridget over here;)

5.Justine over here;)

6. Elizabeth over here;)

Well if you don't believe they deserve it than check it out for yourselves;) These are some wild kreative women I tell ya! Of course I can't conform too much I might give the wrong impression so if you are on my list then consider yourself served! You've been served the Kreative Blogger award too;)
Hugs and love French;)

Masquerade Ball

2008-10-13T11:28:00.001-04:00

Since we have a few ladies going off on vacation, and very busy.... and since I will need some time to put this all together before the Masquerade Ball of Blogge'ville I am putting out this request now... OK ladies and gents (he he) I need for you to email me your Masquerade Ball costumes, if you are married then I need both yours and your spouses costumes. I need these to be sent in Jpeg format if possible, or preferably copied directly into the email so I can copy and paste them. Should there be any duplicate costumes or masks please know I will do this based on a first come basis, so if there are any duplicates I will send you a note and ask that you choose another. Keep in mind this is a Masquerade Ball! DO NOT tell anyone what you are wearing or post it just send the email to me directly please;)

1.Please try to keep costumes elaborate and/or fun and step out of your comfort zone!

2.Keep in mind who your character is.......

3.Please state in subject line character name to make this easier for me!

This is the mask given to the men if their faces are not hidden!

This is the mask provided to the women....if faces not hidden!

DH----Dustin Hooker as " The Spartan"

Taylor Diggle as "Little Red Riding Hood"!

Should I NOT get a request in time your character can and may be executed~~Blogge'ville style!

You have 2 weeks so..........deadline is October 26th,2008
Hugs and have fun costume shopping!
emails sent to frenchkilt@aol.com

Oh and if you haven't already visited the blogopera your missing out on a ton of lust, passion, deception, intrigue etc....visit here and get caught up in the moment!!

Hugs~~~ready>>>>set>>>>>GO GO GO!!!!!
French;)

Answers to the Movie Lines

2008-10-09T23:48:00.004-04:00

1. "Get busy livin' or get busy dyin' " Shawshank Redemption line said by Morgan Freeman~~~ I live by this line!

2. " Did I offend" Pretty in Pink line said by "Duckie" Jon Cryer~~ I love this line, and use it a ton!

3. "Snap out of it" Moonstruck~~ line said by Cher (use this on my daughter all the time)

4. " Go ahead, make my day" Sudden Impact Clint Eastwood (Who hasn't said this?)

5. " If you build it he will come" Field of Dreams line by (Shoeless Joe) DH's favorite all time movie

6. "Mrs. Robinson you're trying to seduce me aren't you?" The Graduate line by Dustin Hoffman~~this is just one of those classics;)

7. "I'm the king of the world" Titanic line by Leonardo DiCaprio

8. " I see dead people" Sixth Sense line by Haley Joel Osment (you'll hear this alot at the hospitals, hey we have to find humor somewhere dealing with what we see daily!)

9. "You had me at hello" Jerry Maguire line by Renee Zellwegger (I say this to DH all the time;)

10. " Hello....McFly?" Back to the Future~~ can't remember the name but he was the bully this line cracks me up I use this one a lot too with my kids (lol) and they have no idea what I am talking about!

11. "What is it in us that seeks the truth? Is it our minds or is it our hearts?" A Time to Kill~~said by none other than my hottie Matthew McConnaughey this line really makes you think!!!!

12."That's my sweetheart in there. Wherever she is, that's where my home is. " The Notebook~line by James Gardner I threw this one in figuring nobody would get it! So if you did then give yourself a pat on the back;) Heck if you got any of them pat yourself on the back I picked some tough ones!

Thanks to all that played along;) This was kind of fun!

French;)

Guess the Movie from the Quotes??

2008-10-09T16:41:00.003-04:00

We all have our favorites....some use them frequently here are a few...see if you can guess the movie!

1. "Get busy livin' or get busy dyin' "

2. " Did I offend"

3. "Snap out of it"

4. " Go ahead, make my day"

5. " If you build it he will come"

6. "Mrs. Robinson you're trying to seduce me aren't you?"

7. "I'm the king of the world"

8. " I see dead people"

9. "You had me at hello"

10. " Hello....McFly?"

11. "What is it in us that seeks the truth? Is it our minds or is it our hearts?"

12."That's my sweetheart in there. Wherever she is, that's where my home is. "

No cheating can you guess these?

Hugs French;)

A plug and a thank you!

2008-10-07T00:30:00.001-04:00

First let me start off by saying "thank you"! I really didn't mean to sound as though I was complaining, (OK maybe just a little)... things are hectic but I truly am enjoying it! DH's business is picking up like crazy and that's a GOOD thing which keeps me busier than usual! I like to be busy, and not sure I would know what to do if I wasn't! As suggested to me by everyone I am taking a much needed day off~~going shopping and cruising the streets looking for some good deals on Wednesday, spending time with a friend and just enjoying the break! Still want to get my son's room started maybe I will find something for that;)

Now for those that have been reading the "Blogopera" my heartfelt thanks.... keep those comments coming, and send anyone that may be interested that way...I love the comments and the more I get the more I want to write;) The plot is starting to come together nicely, and I have introduced all but 1 character (I think) that total is the the 30's! Yikes! So please get the word out, and share it with your friends;) You have the right to brag about this because YOU are all part of it, and the reason it began!

Once again thank you for inspiring me to do this! So far it has been an amazingly fun journey, and it has only just begun!

Click here to enter Blogge'ville!! If you dare!!

Hugs and sincere thanks for "all" your support!

Madame French;)xoxoxo

A week in the life of French!

2008-10-04T23:45:00.004-04:00

I recently read a post that gave me the idea to post this...a day in the life of French...

Because I work weekend nights, and also at my husband's shop during the week my life is anything but normal but to me busy is a good thing!

Sunday and Monday~~this is the day I usually try to catch up on laundry and housecleaning...(yuk) then by 2pm I am usually lying down for a nap ( or at least trying to!) I wake at 5pm get ready and off to work I go from 7pm to 7am...once I finish giving report and signing off of that job I then drive to DH's shop and check to see what mail has come in, checks, do the banking and set up the girl Friday for her daily chores. I then come home check emails, write a bit if it comes to me, Blog then off to bed around 11 or 12 noon, at this point I have usually been up for about 28 to 29 hours. I then get up around 5 or 6, check email decide what to do for dinner Monday evenings.

Tuesday~~ get up around 8 am grab some coffee check emails, and blog, do some banking online, get out some replies then off to the shop. My days there include answering phones, organizing and assisting with the scheduling, going over weekly events then usually a trip to the bank and grocery store, sometimes a stop at the post office then home to do the dinner and homework thing again. Catch up on emails, write a bit, then sit to veg in front of the TV for awhile. Everyone goes off to bed usually by 11pm and that's when I really get to write and blog.

Wednesday~~repeat of Tuesday only my son has Tae Kwon Do classes so off to take him to class after the day at the shop. Usually at the grocery store again!

Thursday~~ this is the day I usually get to the shop a little earlier. Today is the day I work on payroll, and taxes, off to the bank again squeeze in appointments this day, such as Dr. or dentist if needed. A visit to the accountant's office, back home for homework and dinner plans, off to Tae Kwon Do again, and laundry catch up again!

Friday~~ Off to the shop, finish up going over the week's appointments, send out bills, call in quotes, mail out finished jobs invoices, set up next week's schedule, off to the bank and home by noon. Laying back down trying to catch 40 winks until 5 pm then off to work again at 7pm to 7 am...

Saturday~~~ Once I get home from work around 8 or 9 am depending on the kind of night I had. Sit and visit with hubby, check emails, do some more banking, and off to bed around 11 am wake around 5 pm and tonight is the only night off I really have where I do much of nothing, except try to catch up on all the shows I have taped for later viewing. Then it starts all over again Sunday!

Now somewhere in all of this I have to try and find time to decorate again! I miss it! I want to work on my son's room, but by the time I get home in the evenings I am just mentally exhausted, and on weekends after working at the hospital I am mentally and physically exhausted! I have terrible back problems and the hospital job is taking a toll on it! Not sure how many years this back of mine has left pulling and tugging and fighting all the patients I have to deal with! I have a to do list longer than a football field, ( or at least it seems that way) for things that need to be done here at home! And now with Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner I know it will be time to add baking, and shopping to the already too long list! I have a friend that needs my help but feel terrible I haven't had the time to help her! So this coming week I am taking a day to spend some time with her;)
I would love to be able to write more often because I am truly enjoying it! So I am adding to my previous list of things I want to do.... I want to write and decorate! That's it!
Does any one else feel overwhelmed at times?

And with all of this I am considering taking another part-time job for some extra cash for Christmas...somebody shoot me! Have I put you all to sleep?
Had a mix up posting but Chapter 4 of Blogge'ville is NOW available;)

Hugs Madame French;)

Thank You's, Awards and Stuff~~~

2008-10-02T00:01:00.004-04:00

Donna at http://adventureswithtassie.blogspot.com/

Buffie at http://buffiesblaaaahg.blogspot.com/

and Justine at

http://justines-cafe.blogspot.com/

Chris at http://chrisscorner-chris.blogspot.com/

Thank You to these wonderful ladies! I hope I have this right! I have been very busy as you know writing and writing, trying to stay on top of the events in Blogge'ville! I hope I haven't missed anyone! If I did then my sincere apologies, and a belated thank you! A special shout out to Shelia who is truly missed by so many here! Come back soon! I share my awards with all that I have from my heart and to all that are sharing my "Blogopera" journey.. You have all inspired me to be a better person, and to believe in myself!

Now to answer a few questions....the spider on the front of the Blogge'ville site was a spider on the door of my husband's shop....she was our mascot (yuk), that is a picture I took of her in all her glory! Well today when I went there all that was left was a leg, and sitting there with a full belly was a praying mantis...go figure...food chain! Let's please have a moment of silence as she was my inspiration for the blog header~~~~~~ok that's enough she creeped me out anyway (lol)!

Special thanks to ALL that have been reading or partaking in the "blogopera"! You have all made my job SO easy! You gave me the names, and some of you gave me the characters and traits, all I have had to do is put it all together! I have said this a few times to some but I am so afraid I will end up with writer's block, so as long as the ideas keep coming into this little head of mine, I am going to keep on writing!!! Now I know the grammar may not be perfect, and the words could use a little more bling at times but I am just enjoying the ride! Now I know I said only once a week but golly gee I am having way too much dam fun to keep it all to myself so...my new goal is twice a week, as long as the momentum keeps up I am going to go for it!

Now, hubby thinks I need a "pen-name" I actually never thought about it...what do you all think? Isn't French good enough? LOL

Hugs Lisa (aka French) ;) xoxoxo

6 Quirky things about me!

2008-09-30T22:00:00.002-04:00

1. I am not nearly as anal retentive as Donna (lol) I like things to be organized but mine seems to be organized clutter ----but don't move it or I will know!

2. If someone (husband or my kids) take a sip out of my milk~~it's all theirs! There is just something about it that turns my stomach...I will share anything else just not milk!

3. I don't balance my checkbook, well at least not on paper it's in my head and I worry about the day I won't be able to do that anymore!

4. I have an addictive personality---I used to be at Bingo all the time when we lived in Canada! Yeah can you picture me with all my dabbers lined up and my Troll dolls (don't laugh it's true)! But hey I used to win a lot! Thus I could never live in Vegas I would be broke!

5. I had no idea I would enjoy writing so much it's addictive to me, see above comment (lol)! I just want to keep going and going, I have plots all over my head going in every direction!

6. I love to travel, but I am a total chicken shit with other things! I am a total city girl if you threw me into the jungle I would surely perish!

I was tagged by both Chris and Donna;) I think most have already done this so only do it if you want to!

I couldn't wait so~~~~~ Chapter 1 is NOW available!

Hugs French;)

G-man at large!!

2008-09-29T23:57:00.005-04:00

What kind of blogger would I be if I didn't catch this picture of me coloring his gray hair (lol)

Here are my answers to the questions about my hubby.

1. He's sitting in front of the tv, what is on the screen? House, Ghost Hunters, Anthony Bourdain, Chef Gordon Ramsay

2. You're out to eat what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Ranch

3. What's one food he doesn't like? Vegetables, but he's getting better!

4. You go out to the bar, what does he order? Michelob light

5. Where did he go to high school? Oshawa, Ontario Canada

6. What size shoe does he wear? 10

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? Old cars

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? Philly cheese steak

9. What would this person eat every day if he could? Meat and potatoes kind of guy

10. What is his favorite cereal? Honey Combs, or Captain Crunch (lol)

11. What would he never wear? Speedo

12. What is his favorite sports team? Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Cowboys, college football of any kind

13. Who will he vote for? We can't vote...enuf said

14. Who is his best friend? Me, Mick or anyone that he can rope into playing a round of golf.

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? Stay up late all the time

16. How many states has he lived in? One.... this one

17. What is his heritage? Scottish on his mother's side, we think Austrian on his dad's side

18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind of cake? Chocolate, or home made apple pie

19. Did he play sports in high school? Hockey eh!

20. What could he spend hours doing? Watching golf tournaments, or college football

A few facts about the man in my life;)

French;)

PS Thanks for all the support on the soap opera I am having a blast doing it!

So it begins...

2008-09-28T23:30:00.002-04:00

Here is the link to the site it will be available at 12:01 EST, my goal is to do this once a week, haven't decided which day yet....after all I have to keep you all interested, but not overly bombarded with trying to keep up! Please remember to add yourself as a follower if reading it regularly..Thanks

Hope you enjoy it;)

Hugs French

Link-http://desperatehousewivesofbloggeville.blogspot.com/

Head Count

2008-09-28T07:50:00.003-04:00

Have I missed anyone? Here is the list I have so far...

1. Beulah and Dexter Montague (school teacher and wife)

2. Kathy -(the local recluse and artist)

3. Raquel- Angelique (the model)

4. Shannon- Dr. and Mrs. Leigh Lexington

5. Deb- Mrs. Plumbward (nosy busy body friend to Beaudine Gaunch)

6. Mrs. Ben- Dr. Alexus Stran (therapist)

7. Naz- Cosima Greenwood (the gambler, snobby country club socialite mother to Shania)

8. Cindy- Pam Tanna (the private investigator)

9. Justine -Scarlett O Hairy-(the town slut)

10.Donna- Savannah Jones (aspiring model/actress)

11.Pumpkin Lisa- Kate Carliall (lonely housewife)

12. Squaw - Roxy LaRue (party girl friend to all, sister to Sheriff Nikki)

13 Elizabeth Betsy Bainbridge (snarky friend)

14. Nikki- Sheriff La Rue (sister to Roxy)

15.Brown-eyes- Beaudine Gaunch (town busy body, best friends with Mrs Plumbward)

16. Cindy (onlymehere) Shania Greenwood (daughter of Cosima)

17.Twice as Nice- Mrs. Lauren Von Schnauzer

18. Imjacobsmom- Brooke Lexus Von Schnauzer

19.Sherylthe Canadian- assistant to Crystal

20. Gollum- Crystal "Boom Boom" Jones

21. Kathy-(mama)Daphne Primrose Cunliffe (best friends with Bunny)

22. Bridget-Bunny Montana (best friends with Daphne they are drinking, socialites)

23. Schmecky- Antonella Bianchi (daughter of Antonio Bianchi)

24. Antonio Bianchi (mob boss)

25. Kyle - The pool boy

26. French- Taylor Diggle (attorney at law)

27. Mr Von Schnauzer (owns the automobile enterprise)

28. Dr.Anthony Montana - (town vet- husband to Bunny Montana)

29. Dustin Hooker ( the town golf pro)

30. Tootise Dahl- (therapist to Taylor Diggle)

31. Dr. Mc Hott

32. JD Jeremy- (the pool boy)

Holy cow! That's it I can handle no more at this point.......speak now or forever hold your peace if I have missed you!

Hugs~~~French;)

Time is running out~~~~

2008-09-27T09:02:00.008-04:00

OK ladies due to the interest in this soap opera I will actually be making a new blog for just this story..... I have decided that my name will be Taylor Diggle..... DH says he want to play along also.... he will be Dustin Hooker the resident hunky golf pro who all the ladies are lusting after....the rest remains to be seen as the introduction begins...all that I ask is when I do get the blog up and running please add yourself the list of followers if reading it regularly...this is going to be a ton of fun! I am really excited about it and so many of you have made my job so easy, with the characters and ideas.....I am however a little overwhelmed with the turn out! (yikes) Hope I can live up to every one's standards (lol) The story begins after midnight Sunday so I will post the link here so you can access it easily at that time;) Let the fun begin! Oh I have taken the liberty of choosing some pictures of the character's based on what you have posted or requested, so if anyone has a specific person or look in mind please let me know so I can have a copy to upload ...you can email it to me at frenchkilt@aol.com. Hope we all enjoy the ride~~~French;)
Please keep in mind I may inadvertently miss someone and if I do just give me a gentle reminder! It's alot to start with but once I get a handle on it , it should be a breeze!!!

PS Just in case I haven't told y'all lately....I truly love all of you! xoxox

Deadline!!!

2008-09-25T20:45:00.002-04:00

Ok ladies the deadline for names and character traits is this Sunday at midnight EST! Once that hits then I will begin to try and put something together! This may take awhile so please be patient with me! All of this and trying to work, and keep up with blogs.....yikes! Please be patient and forgive me if I don't get out to visit as often but I will try to catch up!!

Hugs French;)

I need your stage names ladies!

2008-09-24T16:17:00.002-04:00

For those interested in partaking in the new soap opera series of "Blogge'ville" I request your character and name.....this may take some time so bare with me eventually I will get it all put together and try to make you all proud!!! Any pictures or ideas you can help with forward to me or make a request and I will send you my email to send it directly to me...this will be a group effort so let's have fun with it! I already have the idea for the title page and picture...I just need help and time;)

Hugs French xoxox

When I grow Up I want to be A~~~~~????

2008-09-23T23:36:00.003-04:00

So looking back to my childhood I started thinking about all the things I wanted to be...it's funny because I still have my childhood book with my own handwriting that says (ahem)
I want to be a Nurse
I want to be a dancer ( and NO not a pole dancer Donna)
I want to be an actress
I want to be a ballerina
I want to be a Flight Attendant

So here I sit 30 something (++a few) years later and.........

I danced for 12 years, tap ballet and jazz....
I worked as a Flight Attendant
I am now and currently work as a Nurse....
I have my Real Estate license
I have an Interior Design Certificate
I am a business owner

So I guess I have achieved most of my goals~~hey don't they say that what you learn in kindergarten is all you will ever need in life? ( I digress that's another blog)!

I want to act dammit! Oh wait I did have a 20 second spot on RMS does that count? NAH~~why can't I be part of the Lipstick Jungle or Sex in the City! Ohhh I know let's start a new show called
"BLOGGE'VILLE"
Where decorating diva's and SAHM divide and conquer all the fake Hollywood bimbo's! Brains vs dumb azzes! Where it's sweats vs stiletto's! Oh what tangled webs we weave......

So where should this story take place? What character do you want to have...good? bad? I am giving myself the deemed character of the sensitive one~~~yep I am a mush ball (that just happens to cuss at times)!

Biggest hugs and no cussing this time!

Hugs French;) xoxox

My Bucket List

2008-09-22T18:34:00.002-04:00

So for those that asked here is my "Bucket List".....................................

1. Watching my children graduate, be successful, happy~ get married and have children ( not in a hurry for this one!)
2. Write a book/novel
3. Travel to Greece, Scotland with my family
4. Get married to my sweetheart again on the beach in a casual ceremony..with family and friends surrounding us!
5. Make a drastic positive change in someones life by just talking with them
6. Be able to financially give money to friend's that need it without them knowing I did it...
7. Fly to New York for a weekend with hubby, Christine and Kevin and catch a show..
8. Own a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes!!!!!
9. Be a motivational speaker
10. Fly my friend Janice and her family to see me!
11. Meet all of my blogging friends;)
12. Travel here in Jamaica with butler service (grins)
13. Transform my backyard into a tropical heaven, pool and hot tub included!
14. Have my family live closer....
15. Live to work------ not work to live!
16. Watch my hubby have success in his business
17. Be a Big Brother contestant (he he he) and win!
18. Design for a living or have Stacey London's job!
19. Go shopping when and where I wanted to!
20. Take some cooking classes and enjoy cooking!
21. Take photography lessons
22. Have a housekeeper
23. Own some property abroad either in the islands or in Scotland
24. Learn to speak Spanish fluently ( I would like to be able to say that I am trilingual!)
25. Learn to sew like my grandmother did!
26. Die peacefully in my sleep at an old age

So here are just a few things....thanks to all that have played along;)
HUGS French;) xoxox

The Bucket List

2008-09-21T13:19:00.003-04:00

Last night G-man and I watched the movie " The Bucket List". For those that know nothing about the movie it's about two men, (Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman) who have been given a very short time to live and they make a list " A Bucket List" of the things they want to do, see or achieve before they die~~Of course being the blogger that I am, I thought it would be fun to see every one's "Bucket List".....it can be as long or as short as you want it to be....It's YOUR list make it what you want it to be...if you had all the money you needed, and had all your senses and were physically able to do anything what would it be.....let's see your list!

This should be fun so let's go with it!

Hugs French;)

Our Home in a Mosaic

2008-09-20T21:19:00.005-04:00

Our home in a mosaic...I think I see a pattern here colors, style, textures hmmmm? who knows why I like this but I do!

Now for my antique lovers out there please help..below you will see a picture of a gift I received years ago from a dear friend....all I know is that it is Wedgwood but that's it! Everywhere I have looked I can't find a similar patterned pieces...any idea where to look? I have been told it's very valuable...it's not in perfect condition as there is a small piece broken off from the spout of the tea pot. I am just curious to see if anyone knows anything about this stuff...I am stumped!

This is probably the only vintage, or antique thing I own and it is very valuable to me not because of it's worth but because of the person who gave it to me....any ideas would be greatly appreciated;)

Sorry the quality of the pics aren't great but you get the idea!

Hugs French;) xoxoxo

If Cursing Offends you then DON"T read!!!

2008-09-18T22:03:00.001-04:00

The "F" word is often thought of as a bad word~~~some people use it often some are offended by it and others grow up using it as part of their every day language~~~I grew up hearing constantly, and I think hubby being Scottish heard it often as well...it seems to be used more often in Europe>>>please click here for a video history of the "F" bomb!!!! I use it ALOT (yeah I know who would have thunk that right)! BUT, I also know when and where to use it if that makes it better? Just watch the video for your history lesson about the word FUCK!! So please if it offends you~~then do not leave comments and if it doesn't then please DO leave comments~~~like it or not it's a word I think everyone has heard at least once okay maybe twice! Most people won't admit to using it but I will~~~and too bad if I do~~~it's what I am used to and shows passion when used in appropriate situations as seen in the video!~~~Now let's see who REALLY wants to read my blog~~~~hmmmmmm!!!!! I say this because I will begin to use the word when I see fit and when the passion in my blogs demand it! I will not throw it around loosely, but hey it's my blog so I can use it when I want to right?

French;)

What's with the number 3 and questions????

2008-09-16T15:27:00.005-04:00

Why do people always say things happen in 3's? Why do things actually seem to happen that way?

Good or bad things always seem to occur in three's yes or no?

Who the hell is "Murphy" and why is it always his law that screws things up?

Why is it we tend to dwell on the negative and forget about all that is good in our lives?

Why do we have to turn over a new leaf why can't we just crush the one we step on?

Why do people always say don't talk politics or religion and yet they remain the two hottest topics........ still?

Why do men have to be from Mars and women from Venus?

Why do we have to learn from our mistakes?

Why do women have to be the ones who bear children?

Why the hell do we have to have hot flashes?

Who made up the word "blog" and are they getting paid for it?

If we got rid of weapons would we really have world peace, would it stop the gang wars and the drug lords?

If you have a bad day and say to yourself someone is raining on my parade~~wouldn't the parade continue anyway?

Is it better or worse to be an alcoholic, a smoker a drug addict???

Random questions......yes? LOL

I think that my parade has been pissed on enough for the last few months so here someone else take this little bastard because I am so through with him! Things are looking much better and it's about time! If what doesn't kill me makes me stronger then move over HERCULES!!!

Hugs Lisa xoxox

Donna This One's For YOU!

2008-09-15T18:41:00.003-04:00

Now I am not sure who else must endure the difficulties associated with having a parent with Alzheimer's but my Donna girl is one of the STRONGEST ladies I know ~~~this is a touching and hearfelt video for all to watch! FYI~~~
She is home baby steps~~~~~
Love and Hugs Lisa and G-man;)xoxoxo

Click here to see video and have speakers on! and pause my music to get the full effect!

Reality TV Junkie

2008-09-13T16:52:00.004-04:00

Okay I have to admit I am a reality TV junkie! Of course HGTV and all shows there also!

Thank goodness I have a DVR which allows me to just tape everything and watch at my own leisure! So who else has this addiction? I am sure there are some of these some people watch?

I guess having psychiatric nursing as my background I am in awe of watching people and their behaviours and actions...So what say you?

Trying to take one day at a time right now and keep busy she is not home yet...for those that wonder......I wonder too....

Hugs French;)

The power of prayer....

2008-09-11T00:05:00.002-04:00

I defy anyone to say that prayer does NOT work....I just got off the phone with my daughter and she wants to come home! I don't want to rush things and I still have a lot of anger and hurt but we promised to be civil and talk and not throw accusations.....it's a time of healing and growing for all of us.....I know this is a difficult time as she is only 18~~we have all been there...BUT I hope to slowly mend things~~~when she was a little girl as I tucked her in at night I would always say " I love you bigger than the sky" to which she would reply " I love you bigger than the universe"~~~that's what she said as we hung up the phone tonight~~baby steps>>> I knew in my heart this was so out of character for her~~~but was afraid I might be wrong.......

I know how I raised my child~~~I hoped and prayed it would somehow, some way shine through and it did....

Now let me say I hesitated to blog about this but my husband encouraged me to do so because he felt I would get the support and strength I needed...so I did and he wasn't wrong....the overwhelming compassion and support from all you bloggers is unbelievable!! I wish I could spend time with each and everyone of you having coffee and chatting about life~~~we all have stories, we all go through difficult times.....You have ALL been there for me and that will NOT ever be forgotten! Tomorrow is a new day~~~and a new beginning~~~~

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Thank You doesn't even seem to cover the emotion I feel for all the support you have given me! I promise to come by and visit each of you~~for now I am just thankful to be heading in the right direction again!

PS Sam~~~I love you bigger than the sky!

With all my heart and soul my thanks to all!!~~~~~Lisa xoxoxo

Dying of a Broken Heart

2008-09-08T23:30:00.004-04:00

Happy 18th birthday Sam!

Today should be a happy day. Instead we feel like we are dying of a broken heart. My daughter is 18 today and in her infinite wisdom, she left yesterday while I slept! Without a word to either of us or even her brother....I am a mess, hell we are all a mess even Jake can't stop crying! She left to go live with a boyfriend who is totally controlling her. She has always been responsible, respectful and loving and I just don't understand this....this is my worst nightmare, we do nothing but cry constantly please pray for us because I don't know what else to do.......we are dying from a broken heart.....I don't know what to do....I don't know how to handle this... words can't even begin to describe the pain and the hurt we are feeling right now! The depths of the hurt and disappointment are tremendous...I feel as though a part of me has been ripped away...
I don't think I can get through this......If we didn't get along or argued it may be easier to understand but we didn't argue and I thought we were close.....I don't know where we went wrong!!

Lisa (dying of a broken heart)

We have A Winner~~~

2008-09-07T11:30:00.003-04:00

We have a winner! I have been showing my son several different rooms and funny as soon as he seen this one he shouted "MOM that's the ONE"! Hey he is his mother's son! He thought is was really cool and loved the colors! He even noticed the shadow picture which he already has! Now of course I am not duplicating this room, but using it as inspiration! I hope I can get the same "feel"! Now I have no idea when or how I am going to get to this but at least now I have ideas! He is so cute he even noticed the black piping on the pillows and noticed how it matched! I will get his eye trained young so eventually maybe years from now he can help decorate his own home;) Off to bed as I am working tonight for 13 hours then have a 2 hour class afterwards (yikes!) Hope everyone has had a great weekend!

Hugs~~French;)

Playing with Decor and Pictures

2008-09-05T00:10:00.003-04:00

Yummy decor!

There is no denying where my taste is in decorating , and thanks to Gollum I have been playing with pictures to see if I could actually do it and woohoo~~~I did it! Now if you look at the first row second picture that is a great example of how Kelly and I decorate together..it's an incredible mixture of the British Colonial style with some hints of traditional, casual chic and a little of everything really! Maybe one day we will actually get the opportunity to do this in someone else's home! What about the beams in the one picture wouldn't that look cool in my bedroom! Oh this is fun, at least it get's the imagination running!

Poll results said the majority wanted some decor advice so I will try to do that but of course also honor the wishes of those who requested the other items listed!

I love the child's room with green and black and considering doing that in my son's room, with the exception of the black furniture I will use his current dark brown furniture..what do you think?

This is a current picture of his room, sort of....there are a few changes since this, but you get the idea...

We even have some key black and white elements already, and other than paint, bedding, and curtains which I could make, it would be quite easy~~~oh yeah except for the time involved!

Hugs and love French;)
PS I have been re-decorating my blog after all it's much cheaper then decorating myhome! I lost my blog roll and tried to remember everyone! If you are NOT on my list, then I had a blonde moment, forgive me and kindly remind my dumb-ass!

We Have Winners! And 1 blonde LOSER!

2008-09-04T00:45:00.000-04:00

OK Ladies~~~we have three lucky winners in my 100 blogs post!

1. Twice As Nice at http://twiceasnicetwin.blogspot.com/

2. Deb at http://debscountrykisses.blogspot.com/

3. Linda at http://coconutsandlimes.blogspot.com/

If you ladies will please send me your addresses and names I will forward your packages!! You can leave me a post here if you want and title DO NOT POST and I will simply copy the information and then delete;) Now keep in mind the item is currently being worked on~~~I didn't lie~~I am not making it~~~hubby is;) sort of well maybe, we'll see.... I am currently working on my blog so if I disappear for a few days you'll know why! Maybe one day I will be back from the depths of bloggerville...UGH~~~ (wishing I had paid more attention in computer class) and even taken an extra class or two!

Here I sit~~~~again! Screaming at the computer~~Lord knows it can't be user error! (roflmao)

Congrats to the winners!!!

Love Frenchfry xoxoxo

My 100th Post and a Giveaway! It's a Long One Bare with ME!

2008-09-03T06:01:00.004-04:00

Ok so first I can't believe it's my 100th post!! Yikes! First things first~~have some business to take care of!

Dearest Friends! A week or so ago Donna over at >>>http://www.deembee.blogspot.com/: posted a "Pay it Forward" Post! The first three people to comment received a gift.. Here are the rules... (I think)!
The rules are that it can be something that I've made (yeah right!), bought, or found, but that it should be something that I'd like to receive if it were me getting the gift! If you happen to be one of THE FIRST 3 persons to leave a comment, all I ask is that they do the same for the FIRST 3 PEOPLE to leave a comment on your blog and that you do a blog publishing the rules like I have done here. I'll touch base with the FIRST PERSON later to get their mailing addresses to send their little surprise package. This should be fun and I'm looking forward to it! The item can be one thing.......... a couple of small things............. or whatever you'd like. Be creative and remember that it doesn't have to cost a lot of money, just send something that you'd like to receive if you were on the receiving end of it!! Now, let's share the love! I already know what the special gifts are~~~~~so forward your name and address. Now in case anyone wondered why I waited to reply to this well there was a very good reason...I had to check out the goods and make sure I had takers...so to speak! I digress....more on that later....

It's funny because I never imagined I would ever be blogging! I have found this to be quite therapeutic during what has been an extremely difficult time in my life... I have found to my surprise that my blogging, and non-blogging supporting friends, have not only become friends but , become friends who understand my past, believe in my future, and accept me just the way I am. I believe there is truth in writing that surpasses what a person can say face to face...I believe that because of YOU ladies there are STILL wonderful, kind loving and caring people in the world! I believe that I have learned a great deal about so many wonderful people, that I have yet to meet face to face! Yet, should I need a shoulder I believe you would bare my weight and let me just sob, without a word if that's what I needed! I have come to realize that I, nor is my family perfect, we are functionally dysfunctional as are so many families yet the love we share is immeasurable! I have been shown, compassion, love, caring, thoughtfulness and unbelievable faith and humor! You have given me strength and courage when I felt I had none left to give...you have given me hope when I believed all hope was lost... you have made me appreciate individuality, and quirkiness! So to ALL my friends blogging and non-bloggers, from the bottom of my heart I Thank YOU!!!!! (muahhhh)

Now a little "HINT" of what kind of gift I am sending~~and it's "NOT" the obvious! (LMAO)

Love and thanks to everyone for all the support since my beginning Blogging days in March of 2008!!! Over 5600 visitors since the counter and it's relatively new!!! That truly blows me away!! Who knew I was that interesting???(he he he)

Sincerely from the heart~~~~~Lisa (aka French;)

PS: French because I am bilingual, Kilt because hubby is Scottish~~that's it two names married together as one! xoxoxoxo " The Story of Us"~~~This song is for YOU!!!

T-Shirt Sayings....

2008-09-02T00:09:00.003-04:00

Have you ever seen some crazy T-shirt sayings? There are several we have purchased either for the kids, friends or for fun...Here a few of our favorites... in no particular order

1.My imaginary friend thinks you have mental problems.

2.Nice face! What are you gonna' do when the baboon wants his butt back?

3.Support human cloning! Two heads are better than one.

4.I'm not getting smaller, I'm backing away from you.

5.Did you eat a bowl of stupid for breakfast?

6.I don't know what makes you dumb, but it really works.

7.If a man speaks in the middle of a forest and there is no woman to hear him, is he still wrong?

8.You're just jealous because the voices talk to me.

9.Don't interrupt me while I'm talking with myself!

10.I'm with stupid >>>

11. No sense in being pessimistic. It wouldn't work anyway!

12.It's only funny until someone gets hurt. Then it's hilarious.

13.People like you are the reason people like me need medication.

14.Oh crap! You're going to try and cheer me up, aren't you?

15.Do not disturb! I'm disturbed enough already.

16.Due to budget cuts, the light at the end of the tunnel has been turned off.

17.I'm sorry. My fault. I forgot you were an idiot.

18.Excuse me, but do I look like someone who cares?

19. If you can't say something funny about someone, don't say anything at all.

20.The world is a strange place. Let's keep it that way!

21.I woke up on the wrong side of life.

22.WARNING! All stressed out and I haven't choked anyone today.

23.Keep watching. Maybe I will do a trick!

24.If I got smart with you, how would you know?

25.To save time, let's just assume that I know everything.

26.Sarcasm is just one more FREE service we offer.

27.If I flush, will you go away?

28.Do I look like your therapist?

29.I live in my own little world. It's okay! They know me here.

30.Normal people scare me!

31. What color does a smurf turn when you choke it?

And last but not least and probably my favorite....

32.I can only please one person per day, and today is not your day. Tomorrow does not look good either.

Well ladies my next post will be my 100th~~~be sure to tune in for a special surprise!

Love and Hugs~~~French;)

Oh and if you haven't voted yet for Justine's Garlic Bowtie Pasta Dish then what are you waiting for? To vote now go here! Good Luck Justine!!

I Hate Hurricane Season!

2008-08-31T07:45:00.004-04:00

I have, as everyone else is I am sure, been bombarded with the fact that Gustav is quickly growing strength and turning into another Katrina! August 29th of 2005 Katrina devastated so many lives and homes...I cried so many times watching the footage...we had even offered our home for a family to live that needed it! Now I watch as Gustav approaches with such a rage and gaining strength! I can only hope that this time the residents any where near this massive hurricane have been smart enough to flee! My heart goes out to all the families that have had to endure this yet again....I can only hope that this time at least it will not turn out to be the fiasco it was back in 2005! We have friends in the area one of which I know has had to leave their home and I pray for their safety! Let us all pray and hope this doesn't turn into yet another American tragedy! This hurricane has already done so much damage and taken lives, my only hope is with the power of prayer perhaps we can help somehow, someone, just a little.....

Hugs and love~~Lisa xoxox

British Colonial Love Affair

Disappeared!!!

Fishy Business this Tablescape Thursday

Mini Met Monday

Met Monday revisited....sort of...

Who who HOOO are you?

Zimbabwe here it comes!!

Wordful Wednesday??? Southern Style

Mega things happening on this Met Monday

Powerful Video.....please watch

Help? and Happy Easter to All!!

~~~Met Monday~~~

United States of Lisa???

Met Monday Make-over

Fabric 101

Undercover

Metamorphosis Monday

Oooohhh and Ahhhhhhh "French" Style

Metamorphosis Monday

Tablescape Thursday;)

Need prayers and an Extra Warm Welcome!!

Metamorphosis Monday

Tablescape Tuesday

Metamorphosis Monday

Wordless Wednesday;)

Metamorphosis Monday

The "Kilt" Question Finally Answered;)

Wordless Wednesday??

Oops She did "IT" again;)

Tablescape Tuesday

Tablescape Tuesday ummm sort of?

New Year's Resolutions.....hmmmm????

Happy New Year!

Tablescape Tuesday

I want to share really I do but......

Twas the Night Before Xmas Blogger Style;0)

Tablescape Tuesday and A Partridge on a Pear Table?

Christmas Past 1967

Proud Mama

Thursday Thirteen Random Rants.....

My First Tablescape Tuesday

Blogger Issues!!!

Truth or Dare?

Gollum's Story #3 per Jacob & Merci Beaucoup!

I'm Addicted to JRM....move over George Clooney!!

Before and After and Extra's

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Gollum's exercise continued....Part 2

The Moral of the Story

Gollum's Story

Something Special!

Take a trip down memory lane with me....

Awards and Miscellaneous

MOM and DAD~~~I MISS YOU!!!!

Punch Drunk Lab Rat!

Stuff

Stress...... an award and a gift post;)

Apples vs. Grapes??

The Indian

Gotta Love the British Newspapers!!!

The "KEY" to my dreams.....

You've been served!!!!!

Masquerade Ball

Answers to the Movie Lines

Guess the Movie from the Quotes??

A plug and a thank you!

A week in the life of French!

Thank You's, Awards and Stuff~~~

6 Quirky things about me!

G-man at large!!

So it begins...

Head Count

Time is running out~~~~

Deadline!!!

I need your stage names ladies!

When I grow Up I want to be A~~~~~????

My Bucket List

The Bucket List

Our Home in a Mosaic

If Cursing Offends you then DON"T read!!!

~Met Monday~