The Stone Rabbit

SWEET PINK EARS

                                                                                                                                                                            
HAPPY PINK SATURDAY!!!!

I hope you all had a terrific Halloween and are staying away from all of the leftover candy you handed out-----or you're staying out of your kiddo's candy hauls!!

My Pink Saturday share starts with this lovely lady and her magnificent dog, Glory!  They attend the same Pilate's class I do.  Actually, I'm a newbie at the class and they have been attending for quite some time!

Glory comes in and greets all of us---starting at one mat and working her way down the line, receiving little pats and hugs along the way.  She tells us to work hard and listen to our teacher, John!! 

 

 

She has her own little mat in the corner.  She doesn't do any of the moves we do, but rather just lies down and snoozes until we're finished.  Once in awhile she'll open her eyes---look at the crazy things we're putting our bodies through--- emits a teeensy snort as if to say "good grief folks, you could be sleeping on those mats like me!!"  Then she's back in dream land.

Glory is a 91 pound Great Pyrenees---small for her breed!  She was born in April of 2006 and was donated to CARES (Canines for Rehabilitation and Educational Services) in Concordia, KS, at the age of 8 weeks.

She lived her first six months at Ellsworth State Prison in Ellsworth, KS, with a medium security prisoner.  She spent her next 6 months with a 13 year old felony offender in a for profit facility called Tipton Academy.  After that she went back to CARES for "graduate school".

Glory's owner, the lovely lady in the photos, is a teacher who works with students with moderate to severe disabilities----it is a multi-district program.  She applied to CARES and told them where she worked and what she needed the dog to do.

She got Glory when she was 18 months old. 

Glory is specifically trained to work in their building.  Glory has many areas in which she is trained and among them are:  She is scent trained to find specific children who play "hide and seek" with the teachers.  She is also trained to "brace" so the children can push up off the floor if they have a seizure or somehow end up on the floor.  She is trained to walk quietly beside wheelchairs (she won't pull) and she knows "left" and "right".  She seeks out those in need, like tantruming children.

Glory is "certified for public access"---just like a guide dog for the blind.

She is a wonderful addition to the lives of the students she serves.  I know she brings joy to us old folks in the Pilate's classes (well, there's a couple of us "old folks"---the rest aren't!).  We thank Glory's owner for seeking out a dog of Glory's background, training, and temperament--- as she is a blessing to all who come in contact with her.

 

Glory also enjoys dressing up for Halloween!!!!  Check out those PINK---I say---PINK---- BUNNY EARS!!!!!  

  

YEAH!!!! That's right, Glory!  You tell them you hope they alllllll had a great Pink Saturday and a Happy Halloween!!

Of course, when I told THE STONE RABBIT how cute Glory looked in her PINK rabbit ears he decided he would dig out one of his favorite disguises! 

Yep, THE STONE RABBIT thought if Glory can be a rabbit for one night, he could certainly be a dog!!!!

  

Hope you had a great Halloween and a terrific Pink Saturday!

Be sure to visit the MANY blogs Beverly, at HOW SWEET THE SOUND, has waiting for you!!!  They have scads of terrific Pink to share with you!

DANA 

AN AUTUMNAL NEIGHBORHOOD STROLL

Last  week, Izzie was demanding a late afternoon stroll.  I agreed with her--- the weather was lovely and the trees were looking so pretty!  I had been so busy lately that I just hadn't enjoyed the Fall wonders.

 

                       

So, she said farewell to THE STONE RABBIT, donned her pink leash (she wore it for YOU, Beverly!) and reminded me to get a plastic bag in case she had a little dogie "urge"!  Of course, I thought this was the perfect time to use one of the cute Halloween bags our local store was handing out---after all, it's so decorative and functional ! ;-)

 

                    

So, off we went-----first down our sidewalk!

  

                       

This is the first yard after ours. 

At the end of our cul de sac is a home that has been "in the works" for well over a year.  It is deceptive in size, as it is huge----it is a single level home with five bedrooms and  3 garages up and at least 3 more garages below in the walkout. 

Our subdivision used to be a dairy farm.  Over the last 25 years, when the first group of homes were built, they have had 2 or 3 other building phases.  We built our house here about 3 1/2 years ago---the last and final phase.  There are a few lots left to be sold, but not many.

It's a great location for us----close to my husband's work and near shopping, highways, and The Bass Pro (a large hunting and fishing store which just opened about a year ago).  We're smack dab in the city, but we like that, too.

                       

               

This house belongs to a great neighbor.  Their home is one of the older ones and it is right behind us.  They are wonderful folks----he's the one who gave us the best apples not too long ago and I made a pie with them.  He's always bringing us some little something---pecans from Texas or vegies from Lexington, MO!  They also have two little miniature dachshounds that are just so cute---they love to bark at Izzie!

This is one of the trees in their front yard.

                             

This home was built at the same time as ours---in the next cul de sac.  I've always loved the their black fence with the red "knock out" roses and that tiered planter next to the drive. 

 

         

These trees are in front yards of some of the older homes, too.  Aren't they lovely?  I really miss the huge trees we had at our old house----well, except when it came time to rake!  I don't miss that.

                

This is the home of a young family----love the little ghosts and the rest of the decorations they put out. 

        

Lots of the newer homes have the front glass doors---the older ones don't.  I think that's why I like this neighborhood so much.  We're a mixture of house styles ---  well constructed homes built by different builders over several years---a range of ages in the owners---lots of differences, but yet a great spot to live.  It's definitely not a "cookie cutter" neighborhood.

        

We're back to our house and our little trees.  They've really grown since my husband planted them.  Today, they are just starting to get a little color in their leaves.

                          

  THE STONE RABBIT was glad to see us return, but wasn't so impressed with the little bag I dropped at his feet. 

Izzie felt realllllly great, however!!! :)

 

DANA

             

PICKING OUT PUMPKINS & TAGGING A CHRISTMAS TREE!!!

We have cut down our own Christmas tree for several years.  It used to be a really big deal when our kids were young.  There was a tree farm in Buckner, MO, that we would visit.  We usually waited until it was a miserably cold day to make our trip (not on purpose--it just happened that way), but that made the hot chocolate waiting for us by the owner taste even better.

As the kids outgrew the joy of a "family tree-cutting outing", my husband and I carried on with the tradition!  We found a tree farm located a bit closer to our home and used that spot for quite some time until they closed their gates---then, we had to search for a new location!

We were so happy when we found PUMPKINS and PINES in Pleasant Hill, MO, last year.

It is a family owned business where you are greeted by a welcoming Golden Retriever and treated to pure "tree farm" beauty. 

So, on a beautiful fall Sunday, a couple of weeks ago, my husband and I took our "2nd Annual Trip" to Pumpkins and Pines to find the perfect tree for Christmas 2008!

              

Housed in this building is a little gift shop and work area where they make the most beautiful fresh pine wreaths!   The cashier's area is also found just inside the door.

               

And perched on top of the cashier's desk, this year,  was a basket FULL of the most precious kittens!!! 

              

It's hard to tell just how many were curled up in that basket---but there were three in it!  The adoring kitten fans were enthralled by the mass of furry limbs, ears and faces.

             

There's not a much cuter sight than a sweet little kitty's face.

               

There are thousands of Scotch and White pines from which to choose the Perfect Tree! 

                        

We usually manage to get into a good spat over choosing The Perfect Tree.  I was on the hunt---no hill too high for me when it comes to searching out the best tree for our living room!

        

From the other side of the lake, is a serene view of the barn you first saw, the owner's home, and the pumpkins scattered all around waiting to go home with some lucky little (and big) kids. 

              

The white tags on top of the trees are the price tags--the orange tags are for the "SOLD" trees.  That orange sign means "hands off---someone else has beat you to it!!"               

We agreed in record time this year on The Perfect Tree--without the teeniest little tiff!!

I put our "sold" tag on the verrrrry top.  

             

Part of the tagging process also includes painting the trunk of the tree---this year, the color was yellow!

My hero loves to paint, so he had the honors . . . .   

                          

not such an easy task when the branches are very close to the ground!

        

I shared in my Pink Saturday Post this last week, that some folks add an extra little 'special tag' to their tree.  I brought a pink bandanna for our little touch!

       

Here's a full view of our tree---complete with its Sold Tag and Pink Pizazz.

Just to make sure no one takes our tree, my husband added a big old yellow circle around it on the ground!  He's a thorough one!!!

                      

We headed back to the barn area and I selected a couple of pumpkins. . .

  

We also wanted to say "good-bye" to the cute little kitties!

The tan one decided to take a nap with his head stuck in a gourd dipper!

  

Farewell, Pumpkins and Pines!!!!

             

We're taking our pumpkins and heading back home!  We'll return right after Thanksgiving to fetch our tree!!!! 

          

THE STONE RABBIT was thrilled with the pumpkin I brought home!  (I gave the other pumpkin to Patty.)  He says he LOVES fall---he doesn't sweat so much and the flies are almost gone! 

Life is good.

                          

DANA 

  

A PINK TAG

HI!! 

It's me----THE STONE RABBIT!

Dana is setting up for a sale this weekend (it starts tonight--Friday) and she was afraid if she waited until she got home to put up this post she would mess it up.   She's certain she will be so blind tired that she might not be able to hit the "publish" button with much accuracy!!! 

So, anyway, she wanted me to wish you an early "Happy Pink Saturday" and to tell you that she would have time on Sunday to start visiting  other  Pink Posts!!!

Oh, and yes, she DOES have something Pink to share!

Do you remember last summer when Dana and Bonnie took a Road Trip East on I-70----to the St. Louis, MO, area?  Well, I kinda hitched a little ride, too.  I packed my worldly goods in this cute little Pink bandanna and hopped in the car with "the girls".

                

Well, recently, Dana and her husband took a little trip to Pleasant Hill, MO, home of the "The Great Pumpkin Patch".

They went to "tag" their Christmas tree  AND  buy a couple of pumpkins!! 

 

            

 Besides pumpkins, this location has acres of beautiful Christmas trees.  You can select and "tag" your tree early---to avoid tromping around in the snow and freezing temps later on.  When you're ready for your tree, you just return and cut it down!

Of course, the tree farm has their own "sold" tag you put on the tree you select, but many folks---just for good measure---add their own special tag, too.

Dana wanted me to show you the tag she put on their tree!

             

Yes, indeed, thanks to Beverly of HOW SWEET THE SOUND, Dana has learned to Think Pink---even when it comes to "tagging" her Christmas tree!! 

You'll be thinking pink for hours, too, after you visit the great blogs at Beverly's!!!!

THE  STONE RABBIT  and  DANA

note:  Dana said she has lots more swell photos from the "tree tagging/pumpkin pickin' adventure" and she plans on sharing them next week.  I'll be sure to tell her that I thought you all are really excited about that!!!:)      Happy Pink Saturday!!!

A FANCIFUL HALLOWEEN PARTY WITH A TWIST OF PINK!

Bonnie was having a Witches Party ---- I could hardly wait!

It was certain to be a great time! 

When the big day finally arrived, I grabbed my hat and broom.

 

Then I grabbed a little Halloween gift I had picked up for our favorite Hostess Witch! 

Look at the great recycle bag (or Trick or Treat Sack)  I found at our local HY-VEE grocery store---for $1.50!!!  It's in a Halloween theme and it makes the cutest (and reusable) gift bag! 

Oh, and I grabbed THE STONE RABBIT, too!

Bonnie had told me her cat, K-MART, would have a special Pink surprise for him!  Oh, he was so excited---he loves car rides, parties and surprises!!

 

THE STONE RABBIT  and I pulled into the back drive of Bonnie's house and this is what greeted us!

 

Bonnie painted the"Jack" on the old screen and added fresh bittersweet to the top.  Can you see the vintage Halloween light peeking from the window?  And look at the great old bicycle parked on the other side of the corn stalks!  Bonnie rides that a lot more now that the gas prices are so high! :)

 What a festive grouping of seasonal decor!

We went up the wooden steps into her screened porch---there were great Halloween items everywhere!  This delightful crow was waiting for us---decked out with a black and orange striped tie and perched atop  a basket filled with little pumpkins and berries.

                

Bonnie had placed a decorated black feather tree on the porch, too! 

                  

Her home was decorated to the hilt in celebration of the season and the arrival of her "Black Hatted" guests!

A "candy apple" was displayed under a cloche!  

                    

Little skulls and skeletons were mixed in with Bonnie's display of Rodney Kent hammered aluminum pieces.

           

A glowing array of battery operated candles were encircled by a garland of bats!!!!  All were arranged on a Rodney Kent hammered aluminum tray. (Did you pick up on a Rodney Kent collection here?---she got me hooked on it, too!)

             

                           

                         

Bonnie has her lap top on a great old desk in her living room---so THIS must be where she came up with some of her Witches Party ideas!  That gal doesn't miss a trick!  She's a computer savvy "Black Hatter"!!!

         

Uh oh, some of the other witches were arriving!

Here you see the dainty tootsies of Witch Laverne!! 

                         

Witch Marian must be given the "most decked out award" for this year's party.  She even had long, black hairs coming out of a couple of facial warts! 

                         

Soon the pointy hatted ladies were circling around the spread of food.  Besides Bonnie's soup and chili, we had these chips and a yummy rotelle dip--- 

           

and a very, very hot (but tasty) cheese spread on garlic toast!  

We also had lots of other hearty food---witches must eat lots this time of the year to keep up our strength. This is our busy season! 

                       

Although many of us had "flown" for hours to get to the party and were extremely hungry, we cheerfully posed for this group photo---then we devoured our feast!

I am on the back row---far right and Bonnie, the "Witch Hostess with the Mostess" is standing next to me!

What a fine looking group of Black Hatters!

 

             

While the hungry witches savored their Halloween lunch, K-mart (Bonnie's cat) watched from a safe distance.  He seemed a bit perplexed by the cackles and screeches coming from the boisterous group at first, then he disappeared. 

           

Bonnie's other cat, appropriately named "BOO", kept his distance, too, while the commotion was going on in the kitchen.  He is shown peeking in through the porch door---he's a bit stunned by what he sees! 

              

Soon it was time to take ANOTHER group shot----this time the Black Hatters would be outside so the light would be better!  We were certain our hats would stand out (and UP) in the spectacular sunlight!

We traipsed out back and assembled for the shot, but not until one more little Black Hatter joined us!

Sweet little K-mart had found his black hat and wanted to be in the group shot as well!

                

After a few attempts, the Black Hatters obtained a shot with all eyes open!  Quite an accomplishment by this time of the day---even K-mart and THE STONE RABBIT look pretty pleased with themselves! 

            

The Black Hatters went back inside for---dessert! 

We had cupcakes and- - - - - -

                      

                       cookies- - - - - - - - - -

                         

                      and PIES (I didn't get a picture of THE PIES!!!), but, oh, were they scrumptious.  What kind were they, you asked?  They were Apple and Dutch Apple!

                                    *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

As the Black Hatters wrapped up another Witches Party, they formed their traditional circle, each placing a dainty foot toward the center and chanted their fair well words:

            

                       Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay
                 My, oh my what a wonderful day!
                 Plenty of sunshine heading my way
                 Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay!

 

         

After most of the Black Hatters had left, K-mart asked THE STONE RABBIT to join him in the living room.

He had his little Pink surprise ready----it was his very own witches hat, but in PINK , and a little Rodney Kent bowl that was full of PINK peanut M&Ms!!!

THE STONE RABBIT was just thrilled to have received these lovely gifts from K-mart----he was speechless.

He did wonder why K-MART had selected PINK for his hat, however.  K-MART then told him that he was a cancer survivor and felt a Pink hat would be perfect! 

THE STONE RABBIT agreed!

Yes, indeed, K-mart had to have one of his hind legs removed several years ago because of cancer---and here he is!  A beautiful and loving kitty---who still likes to run hop and play and purrs louder than any kitty around!

         

Laverne, one of Bonnie's longtime friends, shared that SHE was a breast cancer survivor of over 10 years! 

What a beautiful lady (with and without her black hat!).

                           

As THE STONE RABBIT and I were leaving, we thanked our Hostess with the Mostess for another terrific Witches Party!

Thank you Bonnie for all of your hard work in pulling off this grand event!  She does call upon a few of her favorite  spells and chants to get the job done, but, hey----whatever it takes!

                        

For more Pink Saturday links, please visit Beverly's blog, HOW SWEET THE SOUND.  You will be astounded at the amount of beautiful pinkness there is in this world!

Vanessa at A FANCIFUL TWISTis sharing soooooo many links to her "Fanciful Halloween Party"----you must include these visits in your Saturday fun too!!!

I hope you can find some time today, and in the next few days ahead, to visit links on Beverly's and Vanessa's blogs.  They will be fun and entertaining and a great escape for you!!!!

 

DANA

 

 

HOW ABOUT SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT?

With all of the wild financial stuff bombarding our ears and eyes, I thought maybe you would enjoy seeing a little party we had at our home three years ago.

We had just moved into our new house---one we had built.  It was constructed to  be kind to us in our elder years---you know the story:  one level, maintenance free exterior, wheel chair accessible doorways, etc..

My husband was so taken by all of the flag poles in the yards through out our neighborhood he just wouldn't rest until we had one planted in our front yard.

He ordered a super-duper collapsible number---so all you have to do is clip Old Glory on to the appropriate spots and then expand the pole to it's fullest height!

After the flag pole arrived and we settled on where to place it, we decided to have a Flag Raising Party.  It was really kind of a Housewarming Party---our first big event to be held in our new location.

We planned our menu and invited our guests and shared our theme with them.  Not any of them had been to a Flag Raising Party---what fun this would be!

After our meal, we paraded the group out to the front yard and my husband proudly positioned himself next to his precious flag pole.  He had a little speech prepared!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 He delivered his touching few words about Patriotism and how lucky we are to live in the USA and then he started extending the flag pole--section by section. 

While the the pole was getting taller and taller, we placed our hands over our hearts--- a CD Bonnie had brought over blared out the National Anthem!  It was really a moving moment. 

I am standing on the porch next to the fellow in the red shirt.  He was our builder.  I don't recall what I said to him at that moment---probably something like, "Aren't you glad you're finally finished with us?" and I'm certain he grinned and said "Yeah!"

 

         

As my  husband gave a mighty  heave to the final section of pole, a little problem became apparent. 

Whoops!

          

Some folks continued to sing, some were laughing and, fortunately, some of the younger and faster guests were racing to the aid of the Flag Raiser!!  

                                   

Whew---a near miss! 

The flag pole was manhandled back into its proper position.  I don't think it was too difficult, as I just now noticed that the two lads who were helping didn't let go of their beverage cans for an instant!!!

   

 

 

The Flag Raiser, with his coveted flag pole proudly displaying the  Red, White and Blue, was at last a happy man!!!

 

 

 

 

As I said, that was three years ago.  The Flag Raiser doesn't put the flag up every day, but he is very careful when he  does!!!

(L to R)THE STONE RABBIT and his buddies Flopsy and Curly have spent hours chasing each other around the pole---but they do scamper away quickly when they see the Flag Raiser getting ready to put up the flag!!!

I hope you enjoyed those photos.  I want to thank my friend Bonnie---she was the smart gal that decided to take pictures of the event!!!   

 

DANA

BATHROOM DIVAS HIT THE HY-VEE STORE!

I have shared a couple of posts which mentioned my local HY-VEE grocery store.  As far as grocery stores go, this one is right up there in quality, variety and FUN!!! 

It has a terrific cafeteria where my Monday Morning Breakfast Group meets every other Monday.

                                   AND--------it has a terrific

                

                                                 BATHROOM!!!!  

This is where we  sprint as soon as we've swallowed our last sip and settled our bill with the cashier-----lots of coffee, water and milk, over an hour plus, makes us run reallllly fast!! 

What a perfect opportunity for me to fish my faithful little camera from my purse and FINALLY be a part of Shelia's Bathroom Beauty Snappers!!! Featured in this momentous photo are:  (L to R)  Patty, Laura, Me, and Mary Ann !  I'm certain that the two missing members of our group (aka/MMBG) are really sad that they weren't there to be pictured in this spot---aren't you Beth (who was at breakfast, but didn't go the same direction we did after paying her bill!) and Mary? 

When I came home, I told THE STONE RABBIT about Sheila's fun idea and them I showed him the photo of us in the bathroom at the grocery store. 

He was so impressed with that picture he asked if I could get a little picture of him for Sheila, too.

                          

He was really pleased with how this turned out---we hope he's now an official Bathroom Beauty Snapper, too!!!

  

 I hope you will visit Shelia's blog, NOTE SONGS.  She is a terrific lady who had to deal with Hurricane Ike.  We are all so glad she is home safe and sound and back to putting her joy into her wonderful posts!

DANA

 

 

USING PINK FOR GREEN

This cute gal is one of my buddies---Patty. 

She is posing with THE STONE RABBIT and a PINK recycle bag she picked up for me.  Our grocery store had a great display of pink items for sale in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.   I thought it was a great idea to use the "Pink" theme to also help us remember to be "GREEN"!!

                     

Patty is a breast cancer survivor---15 + years!!

I remember those early days of detection, surgery, chemo and Tamoxifen  as if they were yesterday.  It was such a scary time for Patty and her family---and for the friends who loved her so much.

Patty forged ahead---trying to be as "normal" as possible with her life.  She kept herself  busy and for Patty, that was a blessing.  Keeping her mind and hands occupied---and trying to surround herself with as many positive and fun experiences as possible.  We spent a lot of time just "hanging out"---shopping, taking painting classes, going out to lunch---just trying to have a good time. 

I think one day, during that early time, that is forever etched in my memory is the day we went "wig shopping".  We were both nervous about it---trying not to let the other one know---acting like buying a wig was something we did frequently.  We went into the shop and soon Patty was trying some on.  That was when it sunk in as to how really, really scary this was ---as I watched my friend plunk some doozies on her head, trying to be strong and preparing for the day she would start losing her hair.  She was so courageous and practical and wanted to face each phase of her battle as ready as she could be. Of course, we found some of the wigs to be pretty bad---so bad we had to laugh.  That "finding humor" in the toughest of times helped to carry Patty through the days of chemo and Tamoxifen.   She found two wigs that looked mighty fine and kept them "on the shelf"---ready to pull out when the day came.  Lucky for her, she didn't have to use them--she only lost a little hair on her temple areas, but not enough to wear the wigs.

Patty is like me in so many ways.  We like to celebrate when we can.  She and her husband had a party when she reached the end of the first year following surgery and treatment.  She was cancer free and they could breathe a little easier.  They invited several friends who had been closest to them during that year. . .it was such a great night. 

Well, as I said, that has been over fifteen years ago.  Every year she goes for her check up.  She is concerned about getting the results and it is a very stressful few days just waiting to get the good words that everything looks fine.  She always calls me and lets me know what the doctor's office said, because she knows I want to hear those words, too.

Patty is my right arm man when I am in a sale---she helps me put the last minute touches on items, price, load my car, unload my car, set the booth up and man it for the first hours.  She has been doing this for years---even in the early days of her cancer treatment when she was frightened and worried and wasn't always feeling great.   She is so very strong and determined and has my respect for the way she dealt with the cards she received 15 years ago. 

 

        

This photo of( L to R ) Patty, Bonnie and me, was taken today at my sale.  Our shirts were a hit---they have lots of spooky sparkles on them.  If I had a dollar for every time someone asked where we found them and I replied "Cracker Barrel", I would be a rich person!!! 

You can tell by the photo above that we try to enjoy ourselves---it really doesn't require much.  Just being together is all it takes---then add look alike shirts and a concession stand and we're good to go!  

I feel so lucky to have Patty and Bonnie in my life----they're so strong and, at the same time, so fun-loving.  It's a great combination.  I forgot to mention kind, tenderhearted, selfless and generous.  Wow, they possess some amazing qualities, don't they?  Actually, I could list a few more, but they both read my posts and I don't want them to get too big-headed!

I will be at the sale again today, but tonight I will have some time to start visiting the numerous folks who have terrific pink items to share.  It you want to add a little fun to your weekend, then go visit Beverly's blog, HOW SWEET THE SOUND.  You will find list of participants who have some terriffic pink items to share!!

 

DANA

 

VINTAGE HALLOWEEN SWAP!!

When I read that Heidi, of Foxgloves, Fabric and Folly,  was hosting a Very Vintage Halloween Swap, I decided to see what the excitement was all about!  You see, I had never participated in such an event and the more I read about it the more fun it sounded like it would be.

I knew right away I would love whatever my partner Viv, of  Viv Lyn Designs, decided to send to me because I could tell we were pretty much on the same page from our e-mail conversations!  The swap, in by book, had already been a great experience---even before I received my "loot"---, because I  had the pleasure of "meeting" Viv through our e-mails. 

 

My goodness, was I in for a number of wonderful surprises when my gift arrived!

This is what I saw when I first opened the box Viv sent to me!  What a fun way to start!

 

 

Next to the "secret envelope" was a plastic sheath which contained  a vintage  Halloween"tally"card (I think that was used for a bridge game) AND a vintage "J & P Coats" advertising card with the cutest little witch and black cat on it!!  Both items are amazing!

 

Under the packing peanuts were ALL of thess gifts!!!!  Viv had wrapped them in black tissue and wonderful vintage seam binding and orange ribbons.  She also attached darling handmade tags!

This beautiful Glitter Crow was the first surprise to be unwrapped.  I LOVE the turn of his head!!! 

I love him!

 

These black candles are PERFECT for a vintage Halloween look!

 

 

 

And they look divine with these!!!!

Wooooo-Hooooooo!  Aren't these just the NEATEST mercury glass candlesticks--ever!!!  She made them even better by attaching  coffee-dyed cheesecloth (which she did herself) and the most wonderful sparkly spider pin!!!  I will find many uses for these amazing candlesticks---long after Halloween is gone.

 

I just gasped when I opened this beautiful beaded length with a gorgeous tassel on each end!  It will be wonderful incorporated into so many spots!  Viv thought they would look good on one of my hammered aluminum trays---she is so right!! 

 

This sweet little vintage kitty print looks very similar to my black cat, Frankie!  It's just precious and the frame is a perfect "vintagey" touch.

   

I just love these beaded garlands!  They will be draped on my black feather tree (well, it's an imitation feather tree, but it's still pretty neat).  It will be even neater when decked out with these beads!

 

Frankie LOVED looking at his "image" on the beaded garland packages and playing in some of the orange ribbons! 

Frankie LOVES Halloween!

 

 

 

Twiggy enjoyed the tissue paper!!!

This is Twiggy's first Halloween, and so far, she seems to like all of the decorations!

 

LOOK at this wonderful card Viv made!  She knows how much I love rabbits and cats!  Viv is so great with card design and construction---you should check out some of her work on her blog!!


 

 

 

She even sent THE STONE RABBIT and me wonderful Halloween collars!!!  They are made out of strips of shear ribbons, with shiny Jack-o-lanterns attached to the ends! 

I do believe we look very festive!!!!

 

Whoa!  And speaking of FESTIVE!!!

How beautiful does this all look together!

Viv, do you see who is wearing the other little collar?

 

 

I think Glitter Crow looks fabulous in orange glitz!

Thank you, Viv, for the wonderful swap gifts---I am crazy about everything and so grateful that I met you through this fun event!!! Viv shared the items I gave to her earlier---you can see them by going to her post (here)!

If you visit Heidi at her blog, Foxgloves, Fabric and Folly, you will find links to all of those who participated in the Very Vintage Halloween Swap.  Everyone is showing off their terrific treasures, too!

DANA

PS  I can tell you thought I forgot to mention the contents of the "secret envelope".  Nope, I didn't forget, but it's a secret!  ;-)

A PINK BALL OF FUN

I have a little plastic bucket of toys for my grand daughter to play with when she comes over for a visit.

 

She is almost 2 1/2 and is extremely bright!  Really, she is!  I'm not just saying that because she is my grandchild.  I would say that even if I had never met her before---she's just very bright!  Oh, and I must add, she is extremely good looking, too.  Yes, she's bright and good looking!!!

 

So, when I started preparing for a visit from her I thought I would add a little surprise at the bottom of her toy bucket---something new and something I could use in all sorts of ways to reinforce a variety of academic concepts.

 

 

I know for a fact that Hostess Sno Balls would be a terrific learning tool! How happy she will be when she reaches into her toy bucket and starts pulling out package after package of those yummy  PINK Sno Balls!

 

First, we could work on number concepts.  She already counts up a storm, but we will spend some time identifying numbers and matching the numbers with the appropriate amount of Sno Balls!  I can just picture her sweet little face lighting up when she places the correct amount of Pink Sno Balls beside each number!

 

 

 

Then, we will work on  shapes----creating them out of Pink Sno Balls!!

She will make triangles out of Pink Sno Balls. . . . .

 

and circles out of Pink Sno Balls. . . . .

 

 

and squares out of Pink Sno Balls!

 

Maybe we will work on memory skills----she'll watch me place a sweet delight under a cup and shuffle them all around and ask, "Where did Nana put the Pink Sno Ball?" This might be too simple for her----we'll just keep this in mind.

 

I think we could practice her "stacking/balancing skills"---doesn't that look like fun!  Making Sno Ball Towers---we could toss in some counting practice again!

 

She has an artistic flair, so I could foster that on her visit by incorporating a few Pink Snow Ball Arts and Crafts activities---like making a flower garden!!  While working on this project, we could discuss colors, height concepts (tall, short), counting again---oh, the possibilities are endless!

Not only would this activity enhance her artistic and academic growth, but it would nuture her imagination!

 

Such an idea for Imaginative Play would be when we make Pink Sno Ball Critters---like this cute caterpillar!  Of course, we will count the body segments and legs!  She's sure to enjoy this activity!

 

We could make some sweet little bunnies crafted from Pink Sno Balls and simple scraps of construction paper for ears and eyes!  She could pretend they were a little family and give them all little names.  Names like Thumper, and Hoppy, and Fred.  That just makes the little bunnies seem more real if these have names!

What about little fat piggies made by putting two Pink Sno Balls together, then adding paper ears, eyes and nose---then a curly little pipe cleaner tail!!  She will love this one!  Maybe we could make another little piggie and re-enact the "Three Little Pigs" story----doesn't this sound grand?

 

She could make a Sno Ball Snow Fort and hide a pink plastic monkey Behind it!  Yes, we will work on behind and in front---two great concepts that will be reinforced with the help of the timeless Pink Sno Ball ---and plastic monkey, of course!

 

Lots more fun  could be had by taking a piece of blue construction paper and placing it on a flat surface---we will pretend this is water.  The Pink Sno Balls can be piled on the water to represent an island---then she can play "monkey island" by adding as many of those pink plastic simians as possible.  Of course, I will have her count out loud each of the monkeys she adds to her island! 

 

THE STONE RABBIT wants to help with the Sno Ball Enrichment activities.  He suggested we work with her on such concepts as "over" and

 

under!!!!!

Then THE STONE RABBIT had a great suggestion!  He thought we should work on "our five senses" using the Pink Sno Balls as a teaching tool!  I have always thought he should have gone into the educational field---he loves teaching others!

We could talk about the sense of "hearing".

 

THE STONE RABBIT is thrilled to be demonstrating the sense of "sight" when looking at the luscious Sno Ball dangling just inches from his face!

 






He happily shares  the sense of "touch" with his front paws.

 

 

 

 

 

He demonstrated the sense of "smell" by placing his nose right on that sweet Pink Sno Ball and inhaling deeply!  He was in sweet confection heaven at this point!
 

 

Before I had a chance to say "no, don't", THE STONE RABBIT took a huge bite out of one of my teaching tools to demonstrate the sense of "taste"!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I think THE STONE RABBIT and I came up with a bunch of fun and learning-filled activities to share with my grand daughter the next time she comes over to visit!

                                  *   *   *   *   *   *

The next afternoon THE STONE RABBIT brought me a little surprise.

 

He had found ORANGE Sno Balls---just in time for Halloween fun!

 

How sweet of him to pick up a package and bring it to me!

 

But when I looked down in the basket the Orange Sno Balls were in-----I saw cockroaches!!!!  Oh my goodness, I started to scream at the top of my lungs.  I turned to grab something to smash those disgusting critters.

By the time I turned back around- - - - -  -

 

they had crawled out of that basket and were swarming all over THE STONE RABBIT!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

    As I raised a Rubbermaid spatula to start whacking at the roaches, I noticed a different one on THE STONE RABBIT'S forehead.

Leaning a bit closer I saw- - - - - - -

this little message from a stylish Pink Polka Dotted Roach!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are many blogs waiting for YOUR visit--they want to share their Pink Saturday fun, too.  So go on over to HOW SWEET THE SOUND.  Beverly will have all of the Pink Saturday links ready for you to check out!

 

DANA

note:

THE STONE RABBIT wasn't totally at fault on his little cockroach prank.  You see, he would have NEVER thought about it if he hadn't read Laura's post at AMONGST THE OAKS.  SHE is the one who shared her little cockroach fun---so he decided to have a little, too.  THEN he was encouraged by Beverly (yes, the Same Beverly who so sweetly and innocently hosts Pink Saturday every week!) to put Pink Polka Dots on the roach---and he did.  Actually, they made that little critter look kinda cute!