The Stone Rabbit

PINK HANDY- NESS

                                 

This fuzzy photo, which I found on their web site, shows one of my favorite antique malls in the Kansas City area----the BRASS ARMADILLO.  It is a huge mall located East of the city off Interstate 70--just minutes from my home! 

It is a great place packed with terrific vendors who always have wonderful surprises waiting just for ME.

 

I wasn't disappointed when I made a little trip there last week. . . . . to search for a little something PINK!

I love useful objects and when I found  this old "glove launderall" box---containing the most interesting PINK plastic forms---I was thrilled.   On the box it reads "the ideal way to wash, rinse, dry and shape gloves"!  Now that seemed like this device could be a real time saver!

I looked at the Pink plastic forms---turned them all around, then thought...........

Gloves, huh?  I didn't have too many gloves that needed to be washed these days, but I figured----heck, the plastic hands were PINK and vintage and cheap. 

 Well, of course they would be put to good use at my house!
                                                                

     

                                                                                                                  When I arrived back home, the first test of those Pink Hands was to give Twiggy a little pat.  

Initially, she wasn't too excited, but after a bit-----she started purring and enjoying the feel of plastic fingers running through her furry coat. 

                       

                                                                                                                    The next morning, I decided to leave my husband a message.

 That was a few days ago and so far I haven't received that ring, but I will persist with my little "handy" notes on the delightful Pink Message Center.  I'm hopeful he will give in.

I'm shooting for Christmas.

             

Later in the week, we invited a couple over for dinner.  It was then  I really put those Pink Hands to use!

First, I found I could use one of them to hold my pen and grocery list pad.  The cute little Pink Hand kept me focused on just what I needed to pick up for the dinner party!  No more hunting for the pad and pen---I knew exactly where they would be each time I needed to add an item to the list! 

Those Pink Hands were a real organizing tool!

 

                   

                                                                                                                       Even when I was busy preparing the main course for the dinner party, I put the other Pink Hand to good use when an irritating itch attacked my back! 

 OOOOOOh, that hit the spot!

Those Pink hands were turning into a great buy!

                       

                       

                                                                                                                       Look at the "handy-ness" of this Pink Hand!  It served as a terrific recipe holder while I assembled the other dishes for the big event!

I am going to have to start looking for more of those Pink Hands---wow, what great gift ideas.  I know all of my girlfriends would LOVE their very own pair!

                              

                                                                                                                          Visitors always have trouble locating our doorbell, because for some reason it was put far, far, far away from our front door, sooooooooo. . .

                                   

                                                                                                                             our recent guests where very happy to see the Pink Hand Sign directing them to the doorbell!
 

                           

                                                                                                                      As our guests relaxed, I served them fresh crudites from one of my vintage aluminum plates.  The Pink Plastic Hands added a whimsical touch to the presentation----don't you agree? 

 

       

                                                                                                                          It was soon time to eat, so I gently tossed the salad with help from my vintage finds.  Then I encouraged everyone to scoop up their own  huge serving of delicious greens---using the Pink Plastic Hands, of course!

How practical they were---no one dropped even the tiniest little  nibble. 

I'm certain our guests were taking notes at this point!  They  were just amazed at my cleverness.  

"But wait",  I wanted to tell them---"it gets even better!"

    

As we moved the party outdoors to the patio, the Pink Plastic Hands served as the perfect way to keep the napkins from flying around in the breeze!

They also came in "handy" when we needed to whack the occasional pesky fly.  My husband even squashed a fat little critter with one---which  most certainly impressed our happy guests!

 

                         

I read  on some really great entertaining blog, how you should always create a signature drink for each event you host. A really special drink, with your own little twist---one your guests will always associate with the memorable time spent in your home.

Well, my husband and I decided to treat our guests to our own special signature drink.  We wanted it to  be really unique---and I believe it was.

We called our drink  LITTLE PINK SLAPPERS---cuz every time you take a  sip your eyes bug out and you automatically slap the table---with a Pink Plastic Hand, of course!

I couldn't resist inserting one of the hands into the pitcher of LITTLE PINK SLAPPERS!  I think it was the perfect addition, don't you?

Naturally, our recipe is a secret--what with it being our signature drink and all, but I will tell you we used a great deal of vodka and very little anything else!  You guessed correctly if you thought it was a big hit with our guests!!

Oh, those slapping sounds were music to my ears!

                                                                                                

After we enjoyed a couple of LITTLE PINK SLAPPERS we took the fun back outdoors.     

I always feel a good party is made even better when the participants play a little game or two.  

You can bet we put those Pink Plastic Hands to good use, once again , when we played a few rounds of "hand toss".   We weren't very good at hitting the plastic tub with the hands----however, you can tell I came pretty close on one toss!!!  We all had fun, but decided the next time we played a game that required a little skill we should play it before we sipped LITTLE PINK SLAPPERS!                              

                     

Once again, we came back inside-----for a little music this time.

I pulled out my CD of GREASE and do you know what tune we enjoyed the most?  If you were thinking Born to Hand Jive----you were correct! 

Yes, indeedy, we played that song over and over--taking turns  waving and clapping those Pink Plastic Hands as we moved to the words of "born to hand jive, baby!"

Oh, we were rockin' all right.  John and Olivia would be proud at the way we put those Pink Hands to use during that song!

Good times!

 

I had one more special little surprise waiting for our guests!

                        

 

Both used the "facility" before they left---and do you know that neither one of them made a comment about the cleverly fashioned tissue holder!!!

Bet they were becoming just the teeniest bit jealous of my endless Pink Hand uses!  What else can I say?  I was certain they were simply intimidated by the incredible amount of inqenuity that went into utilizing such a vintage find!

They'd be hitting the antique malls or E-Bay very soon, I thought,  to try and snag a set of them for their very own!  I don't blame them.  They are a dandy item.

 

                     

All too soon the dinner party came to an end. 

As our  guests walked down the sidewalk, back to their home, I used those Pink Plastic Hands to wave "bye-bye" to them. 

They later told me it was certainly an evening they would never forget! 

Whoa, was I ever tickled!  A little trip to a favorite antique mall brought so much fun to our little dinner party. . . . and  we owed it all to those Pink Plastic Hands.

                                                 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

                       

Later,  I shared the events of the dinner party with THE STONE RABBIT. 

He thought I should stick to using those Pink Plastic Hands for their original purpose.

Boring-----I thought.  Just boring.

                                 *   *   *   *   *   *   *

Well, you won't be bored if you run on over to Beverly's blog, HOW SWEET THE SOUND.  She will have a long list of other bloggers---just waiting to share some Pink Saturday joy with you, too!

 

DANA

 

TID-BITS!

          

I am so excited!  I have several wonderful tid-bits to share with you! First, Tracie of MY PETITE MAISON  and I just found out we are really big GENERAL HOSPITAL  fans----oh, and the best news just jumped out at me the other day when I was shopping! I just had to take a picture!

 

 

 

Glory be! Laura's back! Now, I just caught a bit of her yesterday on the show and, even all wrapped up in her institutional terry robe---she looks fabulous! 

Are any of you GH fans besides Tracie and me? 

Oh, I have watched it since Dr. Hardy and Jesse were in black and white!  Sadly, they are no longer with us, but they helped to blaze the "soap trail" and the hospital they started is still up and running---filled with lots of amazing (and odd) characters.

Now, because I am such a fan, I could share some really sick GH stories with you---like how my husband and I would schedule our afternoon college classes, so someone would be able to watch it once in awhile and catch the other one up on the exciting happenings on the show.  Yes, even the guy who lives for the Discovery Channel and anything ESPN, can carry on a pretty good coversation about GH---especially now that we get (drum roll, please) THE SOAP NETWORK!!!  He would probably not want that information to get around, so please keep that our little secret!

OK, I know not all of you love GH, so I will stop-----for now.

On to the really good stuff!

First, Kat of JUST A BEACH KAT and Jean of THE DAISY CHAIN recently presented me with the wonderful KREATIV BLOGGER Award.

 As the recipient of this award I am supposed to tell 6 things that make me happy and pass the award on.

                                                    

                                        

Well, I love thinking about things that make me happy!  Besides my family, friends, and fur-buddies I will add:

1. A beautiful, almost Fall day--just like today!
2. Making all green lights when I am running late!
3. Watching a movie that I really, really love----like Mamma Mia!
4. Finally getting to watch the new season of "24"--missed that one last year because of the writer's strike!
5. Being able to go to a long-anticipated antique sale or flea market with some of my "junkin' buddies".
6. Marian's homemade macaroons, Bonnie's homemade ice cream, Patty's homemade Pecan Pie, Mary Ann's homemade cheesecake, Beth's homemade rolls or muffins of any kind, Laura's homemade asparagus dip, Mary's homemake "fuzzy bears"! :-)

The rules say I am to pass this award on to other bloggers!  I hope these great folks will participate if they have time and haven't already done so.  With that said, I pass the Kreativ Blogger Award to:

     Cherry of CHERRY'S JUBILEE

     Karen of A SCRAPBOOK OF INSPIRATION

     Nikki of BLAH, BLAH, BLOG

     Heidi of FOXGLOVES, FABRIC, AND FOLLY 

Kim of KIM'S TREASURES and   Karen of THE BLING QUEENhonored me with this terrific award!

                                                        

                              

The rules of this award are:
1. The winner can put the logo on their blog
2. Link the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links of those blogs on yours
5. Leave a message on the blogs of those you’ve nominate

 

 

I love so many bloggers and I couldn't single out just a few to give this to.  So I'd like to pass it on to all of you bloggers on my side bar and all of you that I am just getting to know through our comments---I have so enjoyed meeting  you via your writings and photos---the ideas, thoughts, adventures, projects and finds you so faithfully and joyfully share have brought so much to my life.  I thank you for that and I DO LOVE YOUR BLOGS!  Thank you Kim and Karen for the sweet award!!

And to Cee Kay of THINKIN' OF HOME who recently tagged me with the challenge to list six songs I would be embarrassed to say I enjoyed.  I recently played this tag (here) and it was fun!  So I will challenge any of you "Dancin' Queens" (or Kings!) out there in blogland to pick that tag up and share with us your songs!  Let us know if you do, so we can enjoy your selections.  Cee Kay, thank you for thinking of me--you know I love funny stuff!

                   SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR

 

THE STONE RABBIT was so excited.  While I was busy working on this post, he was outside hopping around in the front----checking out the flowers and shrubs, pulling a few stray weeds,  and visiting with his little concrete buddies.  Pretty soon he was yelling for me to come out and look at what he had found!

 

 He was thrilled to show me the RED HOLLY BERRIES he had located on our holly bushes.

We planted them not too long after we moved here (3 years, now) and this is the first year they made berries.

Well, that good find has put me in the best mood!  I love to have fresh little sprigs of holly WITH BERRIES for a bit of holiday decorating. WOO-HOO!

Cee Kay---add one more song to my list of favorites.  It's not an embarrassing song, however, it's one I love--especially since I can really do it this year!

              DECK THE HALLS WITH BOUGHS OF HOLLY!

Hope your day is full of things you love!

Bye, it's almost time for General Hosptial!

 

DANA

              

Where I Create!

Brenda at THE BRENDA BLOG has organized a fun tour!

We are to show you our blogging or creating space!

I thought I would share where I spend a great deal of time editing photos (they require lots of editing--they never look right without some  work), writing posts,  visiting blogs and hugging my critters.

A small room  serves  as our office.  Because this room is one of the first seen when you enter our front door, I hope to find something that will hide all of the clutter associated with a computer set-up (and my dirty coffee cups and wily cats! Of course I was just teasing---I wouldn't put a cat in a  cabinet--on purpose!)   We have been in this home a little over three years and I have yet to find the perfect desk/cabinet. . . . . . so for now this is what it looks like in my space.

My desk top is actually a  closet door my husband trimmed out, then stained and varnished.  He did that nearly 40 years ago---so this little number qualifies for the term "vintage"!   At that time we were broke and needed a coffee table so we decided to "make one".  After he spruced up the door, I built two pillars out of bricks (to serve as a base) then put the door on top of them.  Instant coffee table!

Years later, when our son needed a desk, I bought two file cabinets (navy to go with his bedroom color scheme at the time) and put the door on top of them.  Instant desk!

We eventually moved the same arrangement ito a spare bedroom/TV room and set the TV, VCR and any other electronic devise possible on top of the door. Instant entertainment area!

So, the door my husband finished  many years ago has seen lots of use--especially since I started blogging!  I bought NEW black file cabinets this time and  BAM. . . . Instant computer center!

In the photo above you can see me as I look pretty much first thing in the morning. . . . I hope you're not too shocked.   I know I am when I see that face each day--whew, what time has done!   I tried to go for the real life look without scaring you too much.  It took about four attempts of me setting the timer, grabbing the kitty, tripping over the tri-pod legs, falling in the chair and waiting for the camera to click.  I am holding Twiggy---who was fascinated by the flashing light on the camera.  God love her---she takes such cute pictures!  I attempted to hold her completely in front of my face to hide the lack of make-up, but she resisted that effort. She has claws on her back feet and they were digging into my lower lip with that pose. . . .I promptly repositioned her for the next shots. 

I am just about ALWAYS surrounded by my little fur babies whenever I'm in the office.

I'm not certain just why they seem to gather in there with me.  Maybe it's the soothing sound of the computer keys clicking, mixed with my occasional (and not always so delicate) words of dismay as I unintentionally delete something I've worked on a long time.   Maybe it's the sound of laughter I emit when reading funny or joyful blogs.  Maybe that's the most entertaining spot in the house to be at the moment---so sad.  Whatever the reason, they are my little companions and, many times, my source of inspiration.  My kids are really glad to be grown.  Otherwise I am certain they would be the topics of many a post.  They provided me with lots of entertainment when they were little---whether they meant to or not.

The black cat is Frankie.  He's not a lap cat, but he needs to know exactly where I am at all times.  When we're gathered  in the office he spends his time looking out the front window.  He lets me know when a bird is perched on one of the iron chairs on the porch.  I just wished he would rattle the window when he sees one----to scare them off before they leave their cute little "calling card" dribbling down the back of a chair.   When he's not being a "birder" he's curled up peacefully in  a corner taking a nap.

You've met Twiggy.  She is a rescued kitty.  When I found her about three months ago she was skin and bones and very near entering kitty heaven.  I knew the moment I connected with her that she was an amazing little girl.  A lover and a survivor.  Don't you think she takes great pictures?

This is where she spends her time while I'm on the computer.  She just keeps me smiling all day---and busy picking cat hairs out of the keyboard.

When Izzie, my Grand Dog, started spending more time at our house  I realized she liked curling up by my chair during my stints at the computer.  I resurrected an old rag rug and placed it on the floor for her.  She likes it best when THE STONE RABBIT comes in to keep her company, too.

 

 

There you have it----my little corner of the blogging world, surrounded by my buddies.  It isn't elaborate or pretty or stylish, but it keeps me happy and my husband guessing. 

Don't forget to check out Brenda's blog for a list of all the other  creative spaces---I can hardly wait to see their "nests"!

 DANA

                                         

 

                              

 

 

Pink Comfort

The time had come for me to find some new shoes. 

 

Shoes that would take the place of my Pink Flip-Flops.  Shoes that would be PINK and Stylish and Comfy and Cheap.  Shoes I could wear in cooler weather.

Even Twiggy agreed. 

So when I was in my favorite store at the mall the other day, I decided to check out their shoe department.  I always find exactly what I want there. . . .and they have the sweetest sales help, too!

 

This is what I saw when I reached the shoe department!!!!!

 

It was like a message---a sign---a nod--- from some shoe angel above.

They were having a 40% OFF SALE! 

I was so excited---surely I would find the Perfect Pink shoes for the next season! 

 It was time to pack up those Pink Flip-Flops---cooler weather would be here soon. 

 I needed to SHOP!

 

 

A darling young sales clerk approached and asked if she could help me. 

 I told her what I was searching for and she was soooo eager to assist!!   They always are at this store---even the part-time college kids love to help us elder shoppers here.  She was so cute.  So young.  SO stylish.  She'd know exactly where the shoes were that I needed.  I was reaching for my checkbook as I trailed behind her!  This would be easy!

 

First she showed me this lovely style.

Yes, I told her, the shoes were pink and sooooo, uh, "glimmery" with the jewels running down the fronts, but alas I needed something not quite so Summery looking.

 

I gently reminded her, "The shoes were for the cooler season coming up!" 

As I followed her lead to the next display I thought, "Gads---jewels---on my FEET?  Did she take a  gander at MY feet?  Why on earth would I want to draw even the slightest attention to those big dogs?"

Oh, well, I had to keep in mind that she was just a youngster.  Surely she would be more on track with the next selection.

The next pair of shoes had a bit of pink on them and they were COACH shoes. 

Whoa! I didn't even know Coach made shoes!  Man, I've gotta get out more often.  The fashion trends are passing me by!

I love Coach purses---and I was oh so tempted to have her see if they had any of the shoes in my size, but I quickly snapped back to my original plan.  Pink, comfy, cheap, stylish......I guess I needed to add "warm" to my list of shoe requirements. She kept forgetting I am saying for the next season.

At least she found some that didn't have imitation gemstones on them, even though they were summery and probably wouldn't be too warm. 

That was promising. 

I followed her over to another display where she eagerly pointed to this pair and said she had bought the very same shoes for herself and thought they were great!!

 I was secretly pleased that she thought I would look good in them ---afterall, we were talking about a bit of an age difference here.

I carefully studied the shoes.

Well. . . . .those were cute and corky---bet the cork made them comfy as well. . . .but they were too strapy---that makes them not warm! 

Why is she wasting my time---I don't want strapy shoes.  I want PINK and I want them for the next season  and that would be fall/winter! COOL weather. Doesn't that translate into  shoes that would keep my feel warm?  Do straps keep feet warm? That's a NO!!

I could feel a bit of a blood pressure surge as I was screaming inside of my head about the danged straps!  Stop it!  Calm down.

Slow, deep breath.

Exhale.

There---better, calmer.

This was taking a tad longer than I anticipated and I returned my checkbood to my purse.

She pulled me over to another pair. 

"These don't have straps or jewels," she said (I think I was picking up a tiny little tone of irritation in her voice.)


Ok, ok.    I wanted to give them a serious chance.  She was working hard with me on this one.

I studied them. . . . .We have pink, and stylish, and sorta cheap.  And they COULD be warm.  They appeared to be comfy.

She was  on the right track now. YES! I wanted to try them on!

I told her what size I needed----

SHE was SO excited that she skipped back to the store room with visions of a sales comission swirling in her head!

I took my seat and struggled with putting on a pair of those little "footies" she gave me.  That was cruel and unusual punishment to toss those tiny little things my way and expect me to find the openings where I insert my delicate toes- - - - - then actually getting them to stay on my feet. 

Good grief!

After several attempts, they were on. . . .sort of. 

Then I waited......and waited.....and waited.   That was not a good sign.

                     *  *   *   *  *  *   *

I hate it when the clerk emerges from the storage room and heads my way- - - - empty handed.

NOPE, none in my size, she announced.  "We have them in a 2 and a 12, but not in your size."


My Pink hopes were fading.  Our long journey through the shoe displays wasn't over.  Neither of us were smiling.

This was where we stopped next.

Can you believe she had the NERVE to show these things to me! 

Gads, I probably couldn't even maintain my balance in them--let alone WALK.  They look like some kind of pink torture device.

I know my eyes were blinking wildly at this point as I stared at those elevator shoes!  "Going UP"

 I was imagining me putting the trash out in them!! Or grocery shopping!! Or playing croquet.

Even in my prime, I couldn't have handled such shoes!

To make matters worse, I saw her wink at another sales associate---they had a little inside joke going. 

I didn't like that----not one little bit.

I honestly think she was trying her best to get rid of me.  She must've thought I would GIVE UP!

No way---just keep on finding those Pink shoes, you little shoe chick you.  That's what you get paid the Big Bucks to do!

You can keep those 10 inch heels!  "Continue," I told her.  I followed close behind- - - still wearing the footies.

 

After the "pink shoes on stilts" selection, she steered me over to the "pink patent semi-flats".

I eye-balled them for a minute and very softly told her that I thought the toes looked like they curled up--what was that all about? Did she think she was dealing with an elf?  Hey, I know my toes aren't pretty---a couple of them even go the wrong direction (a little bit), but NONE of them curl up!

She seemed offended and replied that they had been a big seller.  "On what planet?" I thought.  At least I didn't actually SAY that to her--I think things would've gone  South real fast if I had. 

I had to admit to myself, the shoe chick was wearing me down.  In a faint and weak voice I asked her if, by chance, there were any other shoes that fit my criteria.

The little"shoe missy" was starting to get somewhat huffy at this point--standing there with her hands on her hips she looked me right in the eye and told me they only had one style of pink shoes that I hadn't seen.

Lordy!  Show them to me I thought---let's get this misery over with!

And there they were.

I studied them.

They were pink in places--- cheap---probably comfy----and I guess stylish.  But they laced up---I don't like laces.

"YOU didn't say NO LACES"! she said sharply.   She also told me I had seen everything they had in stock then she LEFT me to help another customer!  

I removed those footies and put my Pink Flip Flops back on.  As I walked out of the shoe department  I heard the shopper ask the sales clerk if she had any "comfy, cheap, yellow shoes that would be warm for the next season." 

 I just smiled and headed to my car.

It should have been such a simple quest---to find the Perfect Pair of Pink -Comfy-Warm-Stylish-Cheap shoes for the next season.  But alas----there were none to be found that day.

                    *  *   *   *   *   *   *  *

On my way home I had to make a stop at a local discount store.

As I was on my way to the kitty litter aisle  something caught my eye.  

Perched on top of a shelf was the most beautiful sight I had seen all day! 

Glory be!

That pink shoe angel was still at work.

Look at that price.

Look at those Pink, comfy, and cheap shoes!!  

Why, they were imitation Crocs---so they were stylish, too

I was certain they'd be warm!

AND they had my size.

Oh happy day!

 

 

 

I rushed home and put on my Pink Imitation Crocs.

Izzie liked my new shoes!

 

Then, I demonstrated to  THE STONE RABBIT all the ways I could wear them.

I think they'd be perfect on the days I needed to wear my ankle socks.

Even my souvenir ALASKA socks looked pretty sharp when paired with these shoes!

Just in case I needed to wear these shoes with dress pants---even knee-hi hose will work!

THE STONE RABBIT told me he was glad I found my "Perfect Pink Comfy Warm Stylish and Cheap" shoes.

I did find out later  he had told one of his yard buddies (CURLY) that he wasn't all that excited about the Alaska socks with the shoes.

What does he know?

Beverly at HOW SWEET THE SOUND is hosting another Pink Saturday!  Go over to her blog and find all of the other places you can visit today----be prepared for an amazing amount of PINK!!!

Oh, yes, on Sunday, Brenda at THE BRENDA BLOG is having a "Where Bloggers Create Tour".  Click on her blog for a list of the bloggers who dare to share their creating locations! That should be very interesting!

DANA

 

FESTIVAL OF BUTTERFLIES!!!!!

Recently my husband and I visited a local attraction we had NEVER been to before---POWELL GARDENS, a 915 acre botanical garden located about 30 miles east of Kansas City, MO. 

They were having their annual  FESTIVAL OF THE BUTTERFLIES---I had heard it was a great event to see and knew my husband would enjoy it, too.  He likes the great outdoors and taking pictures and spending quality time with his wife.  

So he packed up his big old Nikon D 200 and I slipped my dainty little Nikon Coolpix (fully automatic everything!!) in my pocket and we were off to check out the butterflies! 

 

After a little discussion about where we should park, we strolled up the beautiful walkway to the building were we would find the butterflies.  We almost never agree where to park.  I think that comfort level of disagreement comes from being married a very long time. 




See the John Deere shirt in the lower left of the above photo?  That would be my husband, walking as fast as he could while I'm saying "Wait, wait!   I have to take a picture of the entrance to the exhibit."  He was on a dead run for some reason, so I quickly snapped the shot---I knew you would love to see the actual sign that showed you which way we had to turn to find the butterflies!  Left---we turned left!

My keen eye for good buys zeroed in on the "10% off in the gift shop" sign.  You just might be able to make out the word "NO" pouring out of his mouth. 

Sometimes he's no fun.  

We'll see.

They had butterfly plants/bushes (I'm not a gardener) for sale----I think they were about $7.00 and that sounded like a good price.  I didn't buy one----I was saving my money for the gift shop.

He was way ahead of me by now, but I just had to take a picture of this massive pot of massive plants.  You can tell by the bench just how MASSIVE this was.  They have lots of massive potted plants like this!  I am the one who can't keep geraniums alive---I was in awe!

I need to find out if they use Miracle Grow.

 

We made our way inside the conservatory where the butterflies were housed.

I read that as many as 500 butterflies could be seen in this area at one time.  While  four-hundred and ninety-nine other butterflies were doing their thing, this beautiful creature decided to take a rest on my left shoulder.  I was honored.

This amazing Blue Morpho took a liking to his shirt! 

Whoops.  Someone should have told him about that tab.

A view in the conservatory and a little butterfly perched on the lantana (I think) on the lower right.

I think the gift shop is somewhere in this building.

Look at this Blue Morpho----with its wings folded.  You can see the blue markings if you look closely.

Now the wings were open---just breathtakingly  beautiful.

A beautiful butterfly found a beautiful lady!


 

The butterflies loved her---I don't blame them.

This display of Blue Morphos developing in and emerging from their chrysalis was so interesting.

 

 

 

We were mixing with the butterflies for quite some time, then decided to see some of the outdoor areas of Powell Gardens.

The layout of Powell Gardens is huge and beautifully designed.  There are wonderful stone walls, lovely paths and walkways, and a gorgeous lake.  Everywhere you look is an endless array of plants and trees---perfectly maintained.

I tried to get a picture of one of the many walls and plantings, but it didn't do justice to the beauty.

 

Then I decided a photo filled with Black-eyed Susans (again, I think!) would be nice---I liked this photo as it was a pretty good one, even for my little camera.

There are lots of varieties of water lilies at Powell Gardens.

 

 

 

 

 

 

                 

While I swooned over the lilies, my husband was photographing a snake.   "Oh, my! Legs don't fail me now," I said and bolted from that spot.

I found Prickly Pears! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He found a WASP---on a Bird of Paradise.

I thought that was a great photo. 

I was proud of him for taking it, as he was recently stung by one of those fellows.  It got him on his right hand and it became very swollen and itched like crazy for several days.    He was brave to go for this shot! 
                                                                   

I took a picture of one of the gardens looking back at the conservatory area.  

I think I see the gift shop, too.

He took pictures of a monarch in its chrysalis.

 

And a monarch that had just emerged.

                                                                                    

Then he took a picture of a crazy lady posing as a monarch!

Followed by the crazy lady hugging a rather large bronze rabbit!  She loves rabbits--even bronze ones.

 

 

 

 

                                                                          

A chapel is on the grounds of the Powell Gardens.  Many a bride and groom have tied the knot in this place.

I'll bet the happy couple could pick up favors for their reception at the gift shop--like pencils or drinking cups or field guides.  That would be a perfect remembrance for the guests!

 

These girls were having a ball in this fountain with their umbrellas.

 

As we were leaving we passed this sculpture.  It was one of 54 on exhibit from Zimbabwe.  They tell stories of nature, man, family, myth and legend. 

 

We certainly enjoyed our afternoon at Powell Gardens.  It is a beautiful, educational and peaceful place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE STONE RABBIT loved the souvenir t-shirt I bought in the gift shop.  :-)

DANA

Mamma Mia---(Here I Go Again) and a Fun Tag!

Last Thursday, I met Bonnie and Patty for lunch on the Square in Independence, MO.  I cannot BELIEVE I didn't take a single photo of the place we ate!  I was famished and my brain must not have been working!  We chose the SQUARE PIZZA as our lunch destination that day.  If you click on their name you will find the website and a great photo of the interior.

The restraurant serves wonderful specialty pizzas, pizza by the slice, great calzones and salads.  Yes, the pizza comes out piping hot in a square pizza pan!   

The Square Pizza was packed with teachers on their lunch breaks that day.  The Independence School District opened the doors of school year 2008-2009 yesterday. The teachers had spent several days of last week preparing for the students. 

After lunch we walked over to the PHARAOH THEATER, another business local lawyer Ken McClain and his wife Cindy  have breathed life back into on our square.  They refurbished the old theater and re-opened it recently.  It is so nice to have a small (four screens!) theater right in the middle of a growing shopping district.

  It was raining that day, so I was a bit afraid to spend much time taking photos outdoors.  I didn't get the tall sign that says PHARAOH on it, but I did get the listing of shows!

Which one do you think we saw?  Yep, Bonnie and I went to see Mamma Mia again---this time Patty went with us!

I enjoyed it even more the second time around, as there was so much I had missed the first time.

I am not ruling out a third viewing, either.

No trip to the Square is complete without visiting Sharleen at her shop, LUTICIA CLEMENTINE'S.

We are standing in front of a gigantic display piece she just purchased from a local antique shop.

From L to R are me (Dana), Sharleen, Bonnie and Patty.

Beverly, did you notice our PINK glasses?  Bonnie and I picked up the light pink specs, and the darker ones Patty has on, when we were on our recent road trip.  They were only $3.50 each.  I can see out of mine, but Bonnie can't. The strength was wrong on her readers, but since they were the perfect color, the only ones left,  and only $3.50, she figured they were a good investment for pink shots--like last Thurs..  I happened to have one more set, and  although they are a darker pink, they were still pink.  Sharleen was able to don them for our picture.  I hope to talk Sharleen into buying some sparkly pink readers to sell in her shop----but they must be CHEAP.  :-)

After our visit with Sharleen, we strolled over to THE KOBE HOUSE BAKERY for a little sweet treat!  They have the most scrumptious apple strudels (I bought one half a strudel to take home), cookies, and breads.  They are known for their traditional Croatian recipes of walnut and cheese-filled povitica.

 

These photos were taken  last spring when we attended the Garden Sale on the Square.  We had a little sweet treat that day, too!

I'm sorry to report that after fourteen years of business, they will soon be closing.

The bakery was started by the family of Caroline Kobe as a way to make money to help provide for her care as an Alzheimer's patient. 

The family will still actively continue with "Grandma's Alzheimer Fund", created in 2000 in memory of Caroline Kobe.  It is a component of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation and now helps local Alzheimer's patients and their families.

This wonderful business will be missed.

 

 

 

Bonnie gave me these  CDs for my birthday!

THE STONE RABBIT and I have been  hopping all over the place to the wonderful tunes!

Yes, the more I think about it, I do believe I would like to see Mamma Mia again.  Anyone want to come along? 

 

 

 

 

              THE TAG!!!!!!!

Pat of MILLE FIORI FAVORITI has asked me to play a little game that involves naming five songs I would be embarrassed to say I enjoyed.   I think I am like lots of folks.  I enjoy a wide variety of music---and I can't honestly say I'm embarrassed by anything I like.  This game made me think back on songs I really haven't thought about recently and when I did, I still like to say I enjoy them.  

So here are some of the tunes that I have spent my time singing along with or dancing to or both.                      

1.  THE TENNESSEE STUD  by written by Jimmie Driftwood .

    My mom and dad knew Jimmie, as they were from the same town he was from in Arkansas.   I remember going to his house to meet him and listen to him play his guitar and sing to us.  I was pretty young, but I recall he was larger than life and the first real "celebrity" I had met. 

I fondly recall going for drives in the family car and all of us (parents and two siblings)  singing that song at the top of our lungs.

Jimmie wrote hundreds of folksongs that were recorded by other artists, including The Battle of New Orleans made famous by singer Johnny Horton.

2.  LOUIE-LOUIE  by The Kingsmen

    I  danced like a crazy person to this song my Freshman year in college.  The first time was at an all school "sock hop" (REALLLLLLY dating myself with that term), then in our rooms at the dorm.  It was still pretty popular by the time I was married about three years later.  My fingers still snap when I hear that song.

3.  ME AND BOBBY MC GEE by Kris Kristofferson

    My husband and I had just finished college.  I had started my first job--he was trying to get into a graduate program.  He was spending lots of time working odd jobs (painting houses, bar tending, substitute teaching---he's very flexible ! )and I was home a lot alone because of his hours.  We had just fallen in love with Kris K. and his current EIGHT TRACK TAPE (another dating myself statement!) was constantly playing.  I always loved the way he sang his own songs.  Of course, I did like to hear Janis Joplin sing Bobby McGee, too!  We're still fans of his and have several of his CDs.  I like his gravely voice and I enjoy(most) of the films he has made. 

4.  THE NAME GAME by Shirley Ellis

     This classic was released in 1964 and was soon being sung everywhere.  It was a children's rhyming game that creates variations on a person's name.  

     The song using my name (which is pronounced Dana, like Nana or Manna or Banana!)

     DANA, DANA, BO-BANA

     BANANA-FANA-FO-FANA

     FE-FI-MO-MANA

     DANA!

     Of course, certain names always brought howls of laughter when the rhyming game was applied--we thought we were SO funny!

     

5. THE TIME WARP from The Rocky Horror Picture Show

     My niece Carrie had to "teach" me what this movie was about.  I had never heard of it and she was telling me how "they" (her friends) would go to watch this show---over and over.  It had turned into a real cult-like draw and a regular party atmosphere ensued while it was showing in the theater.

    You either hate or love this movie--it's odd, but I have to say, Jim Curry's role in it was "over the top" and fascinating.  I love this song and the dancing that went with it.

 

6. DANCING QUEEN by ABBA

    I wasn't a fan of ABBA (I hear gasping out there!) when they were in their prime.  I guess my life was busy with work and school and starting a family.  HOWEVER, I have made it all up since I first saw the stage production of Mamma Mia here in Kansas City a few years ago.  My daughter and I had front row seats.  I was enthralled  with it from the moment the curtain opened and was still clapping and moving----right up until my daughter pulled me out of the theater.

I love all of the songs in the play/movie, but I am partial to DANCING QUEEN. 

  The rules to this tag are, I have to pass it on to other bloggers!  So I am going to tag the following unsuspecting gals---please play along if you would like to!

 Kim of KIM'S TREASURES

 Jean of ONE DAISY CHAIN

 Joy of JOY TO THE BLOG

 Mya of CREATIVE MUSINGS WITH MYA

 Brenda of THE BRENDA BLOG

 

Hope your day is filled with great fun, great friends, great food and great music.

 

DANA

 

  

   

Pink Razzle-Dazzle

Just yesterday, my animals were listless. 

 It was too hot to play outside and they just couldn't seem to find anything indoors to keep them  interested. 

 Limp. . . sighing. . . sad. . .pitiful. . . little furry lumps.

I tried so hard to put some zip back in their doo-dahs!                                                               

First, we played a little game of "GO FISH".  

 It did nothing for little Twiggy---she was not interested.

 She looked straight ahead and ignored my efforts of dangling the enticing shiny blue fish in front of her.  She finally batted the entire toy out of my hand and REFUSED to engage in play! 

That was not like Twiggy at all---she's a sweetie.  She's  a  little ball of fire! 

 

 

Then, we played a little "hide and seek". 

Frankie just wanted to stay hidden----he wasn't interested in seeking.   He wanted nothing to do with it.  He told me to "go away"!

Touchy kitty!!!!!  The heat must certainly be getting the best of him!

 

Even fun little games with the "Wham a Ham" and the "Fling a Frog" toys didn't excite Izzie!!

She just fell asleep!  This is a dog that doesn't stop moving.  This is not NATURAL. 

I was really getting worried!

 

 

What was I going to do with these guys?

I was going to have to bring out the BIG guns!

I was going to have to reach DEEP in my Pink Bag of Tricks to come up with a plan!

 

 

Oh, yes! There they were ---in the very bottom---the Pink Plastic Cups!

  Beverly told us that Pink had Power, so when I saw these cups at the store I KNEW they should come home with me---their power would certainly come in handy some day!

 

 

AND  I just knew that this was the day!!!

I wasn't sure just what kind of power these Pink Cups would have to perk up my pets, but I didn't question them. 

 

 

I just closed my eyes and waited for a clue as to what I was going to do with those  POWERFUL cups!

 

 

 

                                                                 

 

 

There it was!  Just like a powerful Pink bolt of lightning!

The plan was hatching and all I needed to put it in place was a Magic Marker! 

This would be a cinch.

Hang on little buddies, help is on the way!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 I had to number the cups! 

Simple!

 

 

Then I closed my eyes again, clutching the numbered pink cups, receiving the rest of the directions.

 

 

READY!

I gathered the bored fur babies around and explained to them that we had a little Pink Cup Game to play!

A little game of Pink Cup Razzle- Dazzle!  It was going to be so exciting!  They would be searching for TREATS!!!

Those little ears were already perking up!  TREATS---oh, boy!

Now, I left out the part about how powerful those pink cups were and how they would be working their magic in getting them out of their funk!  They didn't need to know that part---it was just my tiny little secret!

 

The curious little companions drew straws to see who would be the first to play Pink Razzle-Dazzle!
 

 Miss Izzie drew the long one ----she was first!  She was jumping all over the place--I hadn't seen her move so much in days.  I finally got her settled down behind the cups and  had her close her eyes while I hid her treat.

When the surprise was hidden, I said:  "Open your eyes, Izzie, and point to the cup you think is hiding your treat!"

She was trembling with excitement!  Her ears and nose were twitching!  More movement----this was looking real good already!

She promptly put one sweet little paw on cup number one.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I quickly picked up the cup to show Izzie she was RIGHT--she had found the treat!

I watched the ripples of energy surge through her seventeen pound body as she snatched up that doggy chew!

She was making sounds of joy---she was wagging her stubby little tail---she was wiggling----she was SMILING! 

I had my Izzie back!

Those Pink Cups were sooooo powerful!

Now it was Frankie's turn to receive a dose of Pink Razzle-Dazzle!

He was a bit more cautious than Izzie--kitties are like that.

Pretty soon, he took his place behind the tempting cups.

"Go ahead, Frankie", I said, "pick out the cup you think holds your treat."

Then little Frankie made his decision!

THERE!  Cup number three!

He couldn't believe his  yellow eyes---he was right!  He'd found his favorite treat---it was the kitty food he loves the most!

He quickly gobbled up his little morsels. 

THEN I saw him grab his favorite little ball and madly start to whack it around the family room, then up and down the basement steps, then around the kitchen------he was moving with the speed of light!  He was running so fast he was just a furry blur!

Oh, my little spunky Frankie had returned!

Thank you powerful pink cups, thank you!

Miss Twiggy saw the activity levels of Izzie and Frankie rise dramatically  soon after they played the Pink Razzle-Dazzle Game.

She quickly scampered over to the cups and eyed them intently.

The Pink Razzle-Dazzle was calling out to her.  She said she could feel her whiskers start to tingle.

With that she made her decision and tapped cup number two.

But NO! It wasn't the cup with the treat!

 

Not to be derailed that little Twiggy moved right on over to cup number one and gave it a determined little rap!

Eureka!   She struck Pink gold----the Razzle-Dazzle was working its wonders as she ate her treat!

Do you know she was so pumped up with the Powerful Pink she started doing jumping jacks!  Yep, she did three sets of twelve. Then she threw herself on the floor and did 100 crunches!  She then picked up her little free weights and headed to the mirror I set up for her so she could watch her form as she did her overhead presses.

I didn't care what she did.  Any movement from that kitty was a blessing!  She had been caught in the spell of the Pink Razzle-Dazzle Game and she was energized! 

 

The pooped pets all experienced the thrill of the Pink Razzle-Dazzle!!!  Yes, thanks to the Energizing Power of PINK RAZZLE-DAZZLE my little ones were movin' and a shakin' again!  What a relief! 

What a day!

The entire ordeal just wore me slick----maybe I need  a little Razzle-Dazzle, too!

Now, who took the cups!!!!

                            * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

THE STONE RABBIT told me he thought one of his little concrete bird friends could use a little dose of Pink Razzle-Dazzle.

 

The story of the Pink Razzle-Dazzle had circulated quickly among the yard ornament family, so the little concrete bird was quite eager to receive her treat! She was certain it would be powerful!

She didn't waste a moment making her pick.

Empty---

 Excited to find her treat, she moved on to cup two!

Well, yes-----something was in there.

She wondered "What kind of treat could this be?"

But before she had a chance to think much more about the type of treat it was that paper just FLEW straight up in the air!  It  opened  as it floated down and then it came to rest against THE STONE RABBIT!!

When the little concrete bird saw the wink from THE STONE RABBIT she knew what the treat was----why, it was a powerful message wishing everyone a Happy Pink Saturday!

         *  *   *   *   *  *   *   *   *   *

Hopefully, you all will receive a little Pink Razzle-Dazzle as you read the other Pink Saturday posts today!  

So run, jump, skip, hop, roll---whatever it takes---on over to Beverly's, at HOW SWEET THE SOUND for a complete list of those who are participating!!!!

Have yourself a dazzling good time!

DANA

Our Road Trip Continued---The Odd Fellow's Hall

A few days ago (here), I posted about the "road trip" my friend Bonnie and I recently took. We left our homes in Independence, MO, and headed East on I-70.  

 Our main focus of interest for this trip (besides a well-deserved escape!) was to go to Troy, MO, and visit All About Home, a home accessories store, and the adjacent Oddfellows Cafe.  We had read about their recent opening through fellow blogger Pat of BACK PORCH MUSINGS.  We thought they sounded like wonderful places to visit----so we loaded up the car and left town!!

I shared in that recent post the wonderful restaurant and shop---today I will show you a bit of the old Odd Fellow's Lodge Hall located on the floor above the two businesses. 

Greg and his wife Lori own the building which house the businesses.   He honored us with a tour of the upper floor and former lodge hall---even though he was very busy with Saturday customers and the big vintage car show taking place on the street that runs in front of their building.

The Fraternal Order of the Odd Fellows used this upper level for many years to conduct their meetings.

We had to leave the shop and head outside to access the entrance to the old lodge hall.  Greg pointed out that when the lodge was in session, a lantern was hung on the hook by the door that led to the stairs.

 

 

After climbing the steep flight of stairs we walked into this amazing room.  I nearly gasped when I saw it.

It was huge! 

I had an instant memory from my childhood when I laid eyes on that enormous place. 

 When I was about five and my sister was around three, we were actually a part of a Rebekah Lodge installation of officers. One of mom's friends was a member and was becoming the highest ranking officer in the lodge--we had some part--I don't recall what it was, but it was pretty special because mom  made us long taffeta dresses and we were seated on each side of mom's friend who was being installed  (I'm afraid I do not know her title.) in a group photo of all of the ladies involved in the installation.

On with the tour- - - - - -

Greg said they had pulled up the carpet that covered the wood flooring and had the wiring updated.  It is just a "diamond in the rough".                                                               

This is a closer view of the amazing beams on the ceiling!

He pointed out the red glass light fixture in the middle of the ceiling.  He told us that when the light was on, during a lodge meeting, only the leader (I'm not certain about the proper title for that officer) could speak.  I thought, wow, I would love to have one of those in my house at times---of course, I would be the leader and in charge of flipping that switch!  Watch it!  The red light is on and I'M speaking.

 

We walked over to the windows you saw in a previous photo.  Greg raised a couple so we could get a view of the street and buildings from our vantage point.  See how PACKED the place was with vintage cars and visitors.

 

In the hall was this closet (one of two, I think).  They were fairly long, but certainly not very deep.  No rod for hanging coats---just hooks.

A nice display of vintage hats just outside of the main room. 

 

 The wood trim and doors in this place were beautiful. 

 

I forgot to ask Greg if these chairs were in the hall when they bought the building.

Another thing I should've asked him about---were these people involved with the lodge at one time?

This room was the kitchen area of the lodge.  Quite a great double sink!

The cupboard was built in and was filled with these vintage dishes when Greg and Lori became the owners.

I would love to know the kinds of food that had been served on these!

 

 

                                                                        

Whoa!  Those steps look much worse going down than going up!

We thoroughly enjoyed our day in Troy and especially our time spent with Greg and Lori in their cafe, shop and lodge hall.  Yes we loved our visit and food and tour AND our purchases!

 

 

And speaking of purchases, a few readers wanted to know just "what's in the sack?" when you saw us with our bags as we were leaving the store.

 

 

Here's my bag-----waiting for the unveiling of the buys. (Bonnie and I usually buy almost the SAME things when we shop, so her loot was pretty much identical to mine!)

 

Ta-Dah! 

 From left to right, we have a fall tray, a Halloween wreath or candle ring, my favorite new loves---BATTERY OPERATED CANDLES ---, a fall sprig and a Thanksgiving tray.

I will put this tray and the fall tray on plate stands in table top vignettes---I just loved the pictures on them.  It's hard to find a neat turkey!!!

 

 

A friend introduced me to flameless candles a couple of years ago and I have really learned to love them.

  They don't take the place of real ones, but if you need a spot to have a bit of flickering glow, they do the trick.

I became more of a fan of them after one of my friends had her home severely damaged by a fire caused from an unattended votive candle.

These candles have really increased in popularity and are becoming easier to find in all shapes, sizes and colors.                                                                  

I am always on the hunt for cute stands. I thought this one, because it is heavy, would be great to use at some of my sales.  I would put my business card in it---or just my name so folks could tell who to make checks out to.  (Gotta always be thinking about the ease of receiving payment!)

 

When I told  THE STONE RABBIT about how I was going to use the stand he showed me what HE wanted to see displayed in it! 

He just might be on to something!

 

DANA

A Thrifty Pink Party

I always like to have a little party theme or idea in mind, so when the time comes and I want to entertain I am ready--I have a plan!

Not only do I want to be ready, but I want to stay within a budget--it must be thrifty!

This lovely Hallmark card spoke to me recently.  Of course, I totally agree with the " High standards do require high maintenance" part---heck I AM living proof of that.  However,  the more I looked at the card, the more I knew there was a party idea connected to it, . . . . .but it wouldn't quite come to me.  I was getting really frustrated.

 

No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get that sweet chimp out of my mind.  It was like she was telling me----"Look at me, look at me!    I have a party theme for you----yes, YOU!  Don't you get it?"

  The THEME:

 

It just smacked me in the face!

Yes, the lovely Pink SPONGE ROLLERS !!!

Every girlie girl has wrapped her locks in these soft beauties at one time or another in an effort to achieve tight and yet bouncy curls.  BUT this soft pink product has so much more to offer!  It was starting to sink in!

Oh, yes, my Thrifty Pink Sponge Rollers Party idea was perking right along!

 

The GLASSWARE:

 

I think those Pink rollers would make magnificent wine glass markers! 

 Just open the roller, slip the plastic end over the bottom of your glass, then place a little sticker on each one with the names of your guests written on them!  No more mix ups with the glasses! 

It's oh so thrifty:  You can reuse these wine markers simply by peeling off the name stickers and adding new ones the next time around!  Plus, they are so soft, they don't make that annoying "clinking" sound each time you pick up or put down a glass!

 

The DECORATIONS:

All great parties are enhanced by the use of candles and what could be lovelier than surrounding your little votive holders with Pink sponge rollers! 

Simply remove the rods and position the rollers around the votive then VERY QUICKLY (they fall down if you're not fast!) wrap a PINK satin ribbon around them and tie a fancy bow!  Wha-lah----Martha has nothing on us!

Don't you just love the soothing glow that seeps through those sponges?  Your guests will be so amazed-----and this is oh so thrifty!!!

The FOOD:

It is sooo easy to make these darling stands that can be used to alert your guests as to what they are eating OR perhaps use them as place card holders!

It is a snap to open the roller and snip a slit from side to side at the open end.  Then just slip your card in that slit and position the plastic clasp at a 90 degree angle so it will stay upright next to your dish!  Again, these items can be used over and over!!!  It's sounding better all the time!

The ENTERTAINMENT--girlie stuff:

Why not have all of your guests bring their favorite nail polish and do pedicures?  If you do this, just put those sponge rollers to good and thrifty use again as toe spacers while the polish is drying!

You might want to send the toe spacers each guest used home with them----let them reuse them at their own home and don't save them for your next party.

 

More ENTERTAINMENT---crafts!!!

                                                             

 

 

What could be anymore fun than making finger puppets out of Pink sponge rollers!

Just gather your old scraps of ribbon and odd buttons, Sharpie pens and of course, your trusty glue gun.  Spread the supplies out on a table  and let your guests just create away!

When they have finished their puppets, you can pull out your video camera and encourage your guests to hold an impromptu puppet show.  Oh how they will squeal with delight at this opportunity!

This will keep them happy for quite some time ! 

Another thrifty-plus:  the finger puppets will make wonderful souvenirs for them to take home---and all you had to do was provide the thrifty supplies!

 

Some more ENTERTAINMENT:  Games

 

 

 

 

All party goers love a little good natured competition.  You can create that with a simple and thrifty  Tic-Tac-Toe board game you create yourself.   All you have to do is snip Pink sponge rollers into disc shapes for the "o"s and hot glue pairs of the plastic rods to form the "x"s.  The board is made from any festive color of paper you have on hand---just divide it into nine sections!

While half of your guests are enthralled with this game, the other half will certainly love to play the following game:

Wow!!  It's "Drop the Sponge Rollers in the Vintage Canning Jar" game. 

For you youngsters out there, in the Olden Days, we used to play "Drop the Clothespin in the Bottle" at parties  (with real wooden clothespins and a real milk bottle) , so I thought this new and improved version would be a hit at our Thrifty Pink Sponge Roller Party!

Yes, there's more ENTERTAINMENT: why not include the pets!

This kind of comes under the heading of "crafts", too, as you can have your party attendees string those sponge rollers on ribbon and make the loveliest necklaces for their sweet pets.

Here you see how much Izzie enjoyed the necklace I made for her!

Once again, the guests will be able to take home another thrifty and creative souvenir!

Some of your guests are sure to be kitty lovers, so they will get a real kick out of dangling a Pink sponge roller, tied to a ribbon, in front of the feline!  The feline will love it, too!

 

 

The perfect ENDING:

Why not take turns curling each other's hair just before the finish of the party? 

 THEN, just as they are ready to walk out the door---you grab your camera and take a photo of each one with their very own souvenir set of Pink sponge rollers entwined in their hair!

 

At this moment you can send them home with their final hand-embellished souvenir............

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don't you think they will love to put the photo you took of them in this roller encrusted picture frame?

What a perfect end to a perfectly Pink and Thrifty Sponge Roller Party!

Oh, I just wanted you to know that you are WELCOME to take this little idea and run with it!  I'll bet you will be able to add many, many more thrifty sponge roller uses to the list.

                             * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

 

 

 

While I was busy planning the Thrifty Pink Sponge Roller Party, THE STONE RABBIT helped himself to my stash of rollers.

He always wanted the same beautiful locks as his buddy, Curly.  He thought the sponge rollers just might be the answer!

Now you need to move on over to Beverly's blog, HOW SWEET THE SOUND, for a list of all of the many folks who have lots of pinkness to share today!

DANA

Thrifty Finds

Rhoda, at SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY, tossed out the question:  "What is your very favorite thrifty find?"

As a long time garage saler, flea marketer, antiquer-----I loved this idea, so I quickly took a photo of my VERY FIRST thrifty find.

I was in college YEARS ago (I was 22 at the time) and was walking home from classes one day---- when I saw this beauty parked on the corner of a driveway.

The folks who owned the house were MOVING it (the house, that is) and they were placing things they no longer wanted out in the yard.

I shuffled up to the owner and asked him if the ice box was for sale and he said "yes" for three-fifty.  I hung my head and said, "Oh, I can't afford three-hundred and fifty dollars" and he quickly said "No, I want three-dollars and fifty cents".  I screamed "I'll take it!" and quickly ran home and called my mom.  I asked her if she would put three dollars and fifty cents in my checking account so I could buy this wonderful ice box.

My husband and I hauled it home (to Kansas City) after we had finished school. This was my first "refinishing" job---we scrapped the old rippled varnish off and stained it dark oak and put a coat of varnish on it.  My husband's dad was a "metal polisher" by trade, so he re-plated the brass hardware.

This icebox has been in all of our homes over the years and has served many functions.  It is painted a bright, garish yellow inside (remember, I was a youngin' back then and had ZERO color style!).  We first used it as a liquor cabinet.  Later it held a microwave on top and my cookbooks inside.  Currently, it's in my basement family room and holds old books.

I love the ice box because it is a beautiful and functional piece of furniture and because it is a symbol of my "early-on" love for vintage items---AT A BARGAIN!

If any of you read my posts, you know I always end with a photo or thought from THE STONE RABBIT.  If you look REAL close, you will see his  little feet on top of that ice-box!  He was perched up on it for the photo---he just didn't realize I didn't get him in his entirety!  I hope he'll understand!

Make sure you check out Rhoda's blog for lots of other thrifty shares!

Thanks, Rhoda, for such a fun idea!

DANA