FL Home Blog

During my recent visit to the Imperial War Museum...

2011-05-14T13:58:00.004-05:00

I saw this wall of drawing done by school children.

As moving and thought provoking as all the planes,

tanks, and assorted war machines are

up close and personal, I have to admit,

I think these crayon scrawlings touched me more.

Children's drawings on the wall of the Imperial War Museum.

From the mouths of babes.

This one made me smile. And gave me a bit of hope:

Everything's better with a bit of sunshine,

some palm trees, and a pretty rainbow!

Please visit my other blog for snapshots of my life:

dailyflhomeblog.blogspot.com

I'm enjoying...

2011-04-23T05:21:00.004-05:00

All the yummy bread...

and fresh veggies...

and the beautiful views.

Soon I'll be back home with the sunshine, palm trees, my FL family and friends.

I definitely have the best of both worlds, and I'm thankful for it every day.

I Miss the Shops...

2011-02-05T12:15:00.004-05:00

I miss the adorable little shops in the UK...

The abundant farmer's markets...

It seems every ethnicity is represented along London's streets...

including my own: Portuguese.

And I miss homemade blackberry jam.

Really looking forward to getting back to England.

But have to admit I'm loving

the beautiful, warm weather

here in Florida in the mean time!

Looking Towards the Future...

2011-01-10T10:57:00.002-05:00

and all that 2011 holds for me.

Grassy Key, FL, New Year's 11

For all the tough times 2010 held,

I am so very thankful for all the good.

Here's hoping that this year is filled with

family, friends, fun, food, and most of all:

Love.

Free Christmas Decor

2010-12-17T08:01:00.004-05:00

I needed a centerpiece for my kitchen table.

I was lucky enough to be gifted a beautiful

Amaryllis by a beautiful friend.

But she looked lonely out there on that big table all on her own.

(okay, so it's not so big, but it still looked lonely)

So, I remembered I had this lovely blue pot

sitting in my empty pot ghetto.

(Note glass missing from kitchen cupboard with a cactus in it sitting inside the blue pot.)

And also seemed to recall some Paper-whites

popping up in the front garden.

I noticed them for the first time last year

after yanking out all the over grown plumbago.

( It had become infested with skunk vine. Yick.)

A little poking around with my trowel...

a squeeze of bulbs into said little blue pot...

and we have:

Just the centerpiece I was looking for.

Free!

Um...I mean Pretty!

A bit of ribbon from the gift bag my friend

gave me the Amaryllis in was all

that was needed to finish it off.

Hope you're finding creative ways to

decorate for the holidays!

So am I officially Southern now?

2010-12-03T12:36:00.002-05:00

I did it!

I finally tried boiled peanuts.

And they are delicious!

If you see this van parked somewhere

off 50 in Central Florida,

pull over! Best part is - he makes it all in equipment

that is over 100 years old.

Just a Few of the Many, Many Things I am Thankful For!

2010-11-18T10:09:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day flowers from my baby.

Visits from nieces and their puppies.

Peaches from my peach tree.

And the peach jam they become...YUM!

I love this time of year, when I am reminded

to stop and take a moment to think about

everything I am so very thankful for.

I can't say it enough: I am a lucky girl!!!

Have you checked out my other blog?

FL Home Blog daily snapshots

A few photos from my October trip to Scotland & England

2010-11-09T07:24:00.004-05:00

The UK is a beautiful place,

and once again I enjoyed

my time there immensely!

Where to buy fish.

Where to buy "veg".

Where to buy flowers.

The Scottish Highlands.

Where to catch your own fish.

Hope you had a fantastic Halloween.

I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving!

P.S. Want to see daily snapshots of my life here in Tampa Bay, Florida, or places I visit? Please visit my new blog: FL Home Blog daily snapshots I'd love to share them with you!

Our favorite new breakfast spot in Brooksville, FL

2010-09-12T18:35:00.005-05:00

While picking up some cowboy boots

my boyfriend had re-heeled, we spotted a diner-y type

restaurant across the street from the boot shop.

If you've read my previous post about having

several (at last count there were 26!) roosters

decorating my kitchen, you might just happen to notice why it

caught my eye:

Roosters Cafe, Brooksville, FL

The food was delicious, the prices very reasonable,

and the staff friendly and welcoming!

We loved it, and vowed to become regulars!

Hoping that upon returning from our impending trip to

the UK & Scotland that we will do exactly that.

Wondering if Phil the manager will remember me and my Phil...

They could use our help!

2010-09-11T11:56:00.005-05:00

The F.W. Springstead Marching Eagle Brigade

is in desperate need of funding.

These kids could sure use a minute or two of your time.

Read more about the band, and vote for them here.

Pepsi Refresh Project

And thank you to Pepsi for the opportunity!

You can also text 102376

to PEPSI (73774)

standard text rates apply.

Super easy way to help some very hard working kids!

Thank you for your support!!!

About springstead high school marching band:

Springstead High School Band has competed in state competiton and placed 2nd last year.

We are a title 1, low income high school, resulting in many students unable to pay band fees, Due to increase budget cuts, lack of funding, we are in desprite need of equipment, maintenance, and uniforms.

Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia, PA

2010-08-20T16:39:00.002-05:00

During a recent trip to Philadelphia, PA,

I was lucky enough to be with a local,

who happens to be one of my very best friends.

She thought Elfreth's Alley would be

right up my...well, alley!

She was right.

(She always is!)

"Elfreth's Alley — popularly known as "Our nation’s oldest residential street" –

dates back to the first days of the eighteenth century."

"Since 1702, Elfreth's Alley has been home to more than 3,000 people.

Today thirty-two houses, built between 1728 and 1836, line the alley."

"They form one of the last intact early American streetscapes in the nation.

Elfreth's Alley is a National Historic Landmark District,

one of the first districts that celebrates the lives of everyday Americans."

Definitely worth a visit!

Homes in the UK

2010-08-06T07:33:00.005-05:00

Here are a few of the homes

I couldn't resist snapping a quick photo of

during my most recent trip to

England.

It really is a completely different place in the

Summer.

I fell even more in love with it!

Doesn't it make you want a rose covered trellis over your front door?

in Ely

So classically elegant...love the glossy black front door.

Thatched roofs. Soft muted colors. Cottage garden. Yes, please!

in Market Deeping

Hickledy pickledy.

in Ely

Tudor. Real, still standing Tudor.

in Lavenham

Have you ever tried Pimm's?

It really is the English summer in a glass!

Fort Lauderdale, FL

2010-07-27T20:17:00.005-05:00

We spent the weekend in

Fort Lauderdale, FL.

I had forgotten just how beautiful the beach is,

how much I love the diversity, and yes,

even the humidity.

The fact that it's only a four hour car ride away

from Spring Hill means we'll be back...

SOON!

Honeymoon Island, Dunedin, Florida

2010-07-16T18:06:00.002-05:00

A few shots I snapped with my cell phone

when I recently took the kids over to

Honeymoon Island

Dunedin, Florida.

We collected shells, saw dolphins,

and made plans to bring our dog to the dog beach asap!

A few photos from my recent trip to Washington D.C.

2010-05-20T12:12:00.002-05:00

We road tripped north from Spring Hill, FL up to MA, and on our way back down we paid our Nation's Capital a visit. What a wonderful experience! It was like walking through my childhood history textbooks.

Hoping to visit again, soon!

Arizona in bloom

2010-04-12T09:19:00.003-05:00

I knew the desert would be beautiful...

I just never expected it to be in bloom!

So glad that the tropical plants here in Hernando County, FL are making a recovery from the unusual cold snaps we had this winter...I'm so thankful that my own yard is also blooming now!

From the heart of the UK to the heart of the USA...

2010-03-18T14:07:00.003-05:00

I'm in the lone star state

for SxSW in Austin this week...

and I find myself falling in love with rural America all over again.

I love visiting all the beautiful parts of this great country!

Have you been to Austin? Where should we go for some cool cowboy shirts?

Back at the zoo...er...I mean home...

2010-03-02T13:54:00.005-05:00

I loved every moment in the UK...

the scenery both in the countryside, and in the glorious city that is London, awed me, and left me wishing I had more time still for looking around and taking it all in.

Well, after a night trapped at the airport in Newark, NJ, I hopped one of the only flights getting out - after final boarding...and the fact that it was headed to Fort Myers - and am home again with my crazy animals. I missed them. (okay, so mostly the poodle)

It's nice to be back, and even though I'm doing battle with an over grown Pink Grapefruit tree right now - the tree is winning! - I have to admit that I love being in flip flops, feeling the warmth of the sun on my back while I working in a tank top, and that

Florida is still the place for me!

Food, glorious foooood...

2010-02-21T09:48:00.002-05:00

Sausage & salad...

Jams & chutneys....

Fresh produce at the local stand...

Fish pie...trust me, you MUST try this!

Toe-mah-toe and Bahzill soup...delish.

I feel like I'm eating my way across the countryside!

A Floridian in the English countryside...

2010-02-12T11:36:00.004-05:00

I might need to wear 2 coats (at the same time),

a hat, some warm gloves,

and I've had to leave my beloved flip flops back in Florida...

but I have to admit that even though it's a bit chilly...

and the sky is mostly grey...

I'm loving every minute of it!

Have you been here to the UK?

Can you point me in the direction of your favorite pub?

(Wo)Man's Best Friend...

2010-01-21T17:45:00.001-05:00

My constant companion...

even if it means sunbathing in a fur coat.

Butch

I love him.

He completes me.

Love at first walk by on the way into Target...

2010-01-17T11:30:00.006-05:00

Great old GMC truck parked outside Target in Spring Hill, FL...

They just don't make'm like they used to!

A chilly weekend in The Big Freezy...I mean Easy...

2010-01-11T11:18:00.008-05:00

We took a girl's weekend trip over to New Orleans for a little sight seeing, shopping, and some fun on Bourbon Street. What we weren't expecting was that most of that shopping would be for hats, scarves, gloves, and a vast majority of the drinking we did consisted of hot chocolate! It was a very cold weekend in the Big Easy, but that didn't keep the good times from rolling!

icicles dripped from the balconies

the fountains were frozen

and sometimes hot chocolate just wasn't enough!

It is a beautiful city, and each time I go I fall more and more in love with her.

Have you been? Any favorite spots, or must eat at restaurants?

The Roquefort burger at Yo-Mama's bleu my mind, and my new favorite late night (okay, so more like early AM) spot has to be the Erin Rose.

Hope you're keeping warm!

Homes in Key West, Florida

2010-01-06T00:50:00.004-05:00

Spent New Year's in the one place I could still find some fun in the sun this very chilly holiday season,

Key West, FL

Here are 3 examples of the beautiful homes that abound in America's only Caribbean Island:

Oh Christmas Tree...4

2009-12-19T20:43:00.004-05:00

Stopped by
Roger's Christmas House Village
in Brooksville, FL today...

Thanks for stopping by...may your holidays be
Merry & Bright!

Oh Christmas Tree...3

2009-12-18T13:12:00.002-05:00

Stopped by
Roger's Christmas House Village
in Brooksville, FL today...

Thanks for stopping by...may your holidays be
Merry & Bright!

Check back soon for the next tree!

Oh Christmas Tree...2

2009-12-17T12:38:00.004-05:00

Stopped by
Roger's Christmas House Village
in Brooksville, FL today...

snapped some pics of the beautiful trees displayed. Thought I'd share them with you.
Hope they inspire some Holiday Decorating,
it can be a little hard to get into the spirit when you're in
sunny Florida...

Thanks for stopping by...may your holidays be
Merry & Bright!

Check back soon for the next tree!

Oh Christmas Tree...1

2009-12-16T22:33:00.004-05:00

Stopped by
Roger's Christmas House Village
in Brooksville, FL today...

Oh, just another Florida sunset pic...

2009-11-30T10:56:00.005-05:00

but this time in beautiful

Key West

A Girl's Weekend in South Beach...

2009-10-19T08:40:00.003-05:00

Sometimes a girl's just gotta have FUN!

Breakfast at the Cardozo Hotel...

Ocean Drive

Miami Beach...just look at the color of the water...

I love having all this just a
few hours drive away from me!

How I recharge my Mom batteries...

2009-10-08T15:38:00.002-05:00

Cell Pic of

Indian Rocks Beach

Apparently this mom runs on solar energy!

Only in Florida...

2009-09-21T18:46:00.004-05:00

So I'm heading for home after a late night breakfast with my best girlfriend after dancing the night away to 80's dance music at "groove"...and what do I happen to spy while driving down the road?

A giant Lobster.

Yup. HUGE.

Lobzilla.

on wheels!

Okay, so it's a VW bug draped with a giant lobster which belongs to Boston Lobster Feast, in Orlando, FL.

This was waaaaay funnier at the time!

My favorite Florida bug...

2009-09-17T12:43:00.002-05:00

My Love Bug!

We celebrated her 17th Birthday yesterday...

but no matter how old she is, she'll always be my

Baby Girl!

Roots...

2009-09-06T20:13:00.002-05:00

Today we spent the afternoon at the Portuguese American Cultural Association enjoying yummy food, and watching several Portuguese Folklore groups perform.

The PACA group just so happens to include a very special little dancer...

my beautiful niece Li!

What a great way to keep our family rooted with our origins!

My favorite WaveRunners...

2009-09-04T09:08:00.002-05:00

T, Li & Mi

Clearwater Beach, FL

Maybe they're more like WaveJumpers.

Click here to search for your home in Spring Hill, FL.

Titanic - The Experience, Orlando, FL

2009-08-18T10:44:00.004-05:00

We took the kids over to the

Titanic - The Experience

in Orlando, FL...

The guide did a great job...entertaining us while educating us.

The reproduction of the staircase is absolutely stunning...

they really put in every detail.

The girls learned a lot about the tragedy. We were all given tickets with a passengers name at the beginning. When the tour was done we learned the fate of our passenger. My 7 year old had a 7 year old's name...and the little girl tragically did not make it. My 17 year old had an 18 year old girls name, and we were happy to learn that she did. Really made it very real to us all. Worth the short trip over from Spring Hill, Florida for sure!

Summer Fun!

2009-07-24T10:17:00.003-05:00

Have lots of fun all day at Universal Studios...

two of my most favorite girls

then drive home and sleep in my own bed at night!

I love living in Spring Hill, Florida. Just a couple hours ride away from all the major theme parks...but far enough away that we don't pay tourist prices!

The Girls are back in town!

2009-06-24T14:47:00.004-05:00

My New England Nieces are back down in Spring Hill, FL, for their annual summer visit, and I couldn't be happier! Well...there is one person who's even happier than me...not so much a person...but a certain chocolate brown Poodle:

I think the feeling is mutual.

Hope your summer is off to a great start, too!

Sometimes it's in the details...

2009-06-15T13:40:00.003-05:00

Decorative carvings around the entry to a church in Clearwater, FL:

Wonder what it might cost to do this around the entryway of our home...

a girl can dream.

Happy Birthday Josh Hanoud!

2009-05-26T14:51:00.007-05:00

Happy 30th Birthday!

Thank you for everything you do for us!

Enjoy your day! And your cake!

We LOVE you!!!

The 4 Hour Mini-Vacation...

2009-05-05T15:44:00.002-05:00

As some of you might know, Josh and I run HernandoLuxuryHomes.com, and Josh is a Real Estate agent. This tends to keep him VERY busy. Much too busy to take an actual vacation very often. Luckily, we've got the beautiful Clearwater Beach just a quick ride south of Spring Hill. We stole away a few hours, and recharged our batteries...together...it was great!

Clearwater Beach, a Marina, and condos with a fantastic view beyond.

Side view of Pier 60, Cleawater Beach, FL...at night this pier comes alive with vendors and street performers. It's an experience in and of itself.

Right out of the Gulf of Mexico, and over to Jimmy's waterside restaurant...

where we listened to reggae, enjoyed the view, and I sipped on a yummy tropical concoction or two. Batteries are full...and we're right back at it!

How do you get away, when you can't have an actual get-away?

A litte QT w/ the surf & sun - Clearwater Beach, FL...

2009-04-24T13:05:00.001-05:00

My adorable nieces - 3 of them! - are down visiting us in Spring Hill for their April vacations. It has been wonderful spending time with them. Great kids who I greatly miss through out most of the year.

This has given me an opportunity to spend a little time at one of the main reasons I moved down here:

the beach.

I'll miss them when they fly back up.

Have you had a bit of a spring break yet?

Did you spend any of it doing something you love?

Proud Mom Post...

2009-04-19T21:11:00.002-05:00

This weekend my talented daughter, along with the F.W. Springstead Marching Eagle Brigade, marched down Main St. and through the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, FL.

A beautiful welcome...

Celebrate Today!

When they say Magic Kingdom, they mean it!

Here is the vid. of my daughter & the band marching down Main St.:

F.W. Springstead H.S. - Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World - 04/19

Disney was filled with a little extra magic this weekend.

Thanks for sharing my proud Mom moment with me!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T14:38:00.002-05:00

from my family to yours!

Maybe I should change my blog's name?

2009-03-27T10:58:00.003-05:00

FL Chocolate Blog, perhaps?

It seems to be a theme around here lately.

Maybe it has something to do with the diet I'm on.

I picked up a super easy, everything included, chocolate lollipop kit at Joanne's and the kids had a blast making them over at their grandparents' house.

I wasn't expecting pink and yellow chocolate to taste quite as heavenly as it did.

(pssst...how cute is that apron? I got it on Etsy.)

Did you notice I said did? They sure were delicious.

If you're looking for something different and fun (and super chocolatey) to do with the munchkins, this is it!

Confessions...

2009-03-16T11:37:00.001-05:00

I recently posted a light hearted post about our quick trip down to Tarpon Springs. I posted photos of pretty shells, a boat, and wrote about what a wonderful day we had.

Well, the thing is...that's not all we did. There's something that's been eating away at me. Something I didn't want to share. Hmmm...funny choice of words there. I'm just going to come right out and confess to something...naughty...and dark...

Dark Chocolate.

And lots of it.

We stopped at Hella's for some of the most delicious,

and super naughty desserts known to mankind.

I feel better now that I've 'fessed up.

Any sinfully yummy confessions of your own?

Tarpon Springs, FL

2009-03-10T08:34:00.008-05:00

This past Sunday we took a short road trip down from Spring Hill to Tarpon Springs, FL. It had been far too long since I'd enjoyed some delicious Greek food, and the weather was just perfect for a stroll down Docadenese Drive, also known as The Sponge Docks.

I have to admit, this beautiful pink-washed building had me dreaming of buying it and running my own special little shop. What a wonderful way to make a living.

Surrounded by the smells of Greek delicacies, hand rolled cigars, the salty smell of the water, and the cheery relaxed faces of both vacationers and locals picking out their favorite shells, hand made soaps, and sponges to bring back home. How does that sound to you?

Silhouetted...

2009-03-02T09:23:00.006-05:00

Sunset colored sky over a canal
in Hernando Beach, FL.

It's chilly here today, how is it in your neck of the woods?

Why did the (funky) chicken cross the road?

2009-02-24T15:54:00.002-05:00

To get to my kitchen.

I have something of a chicken collection. 23, I believe, the last time the kids counted. It started out innocently enough. As a child I played among Eucalyptus trees in the area where my Great-Grandma's chickens had their coups. They were all different, and so beautiful. Not the plain white ones we see in commercial settings here in the US. When I see a funky chicken I can't help but smile and think of carefree times.

The thing is...once you get more than one... they seem to multiply like bunnies.

What collections can be found

around your home?

2009-02-19T09:57:00.006-05:00

A few dreamy Master Bedroom views,

from Josh's Current Listings...

In Hernando Beach, FL:

Gaze all the way to the Gulf of Mexico...

from this open & airy bedroom...(you should see the bath)

In Hudson Beach, FL:

Gaze at your gazebo, boat dock, and extra-wide canal...

while resting your head on your pillow...

In Tampa, FL:

A very affordable townhouse, with a priceless view...

Hope you enjoyed the quick peek!

See his website if you wanna poke around a bit more.

Pssst...I'm working on a give away because the amazingly gorgeous and inspiring Tara at TMI gave me a Lovely Blog Award, and I want to celebrate it right!

What's your dream view?

Valentine's Day Wedding...

2009-02-14T22:34:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Today we were blessed to join my sister Nancy on her Wedding Day.

The rings...

Mr. & Mrs.

The Beautiful Bride

It made for a beautiful, romantic, love filled day

at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, FL.

Hope your day was equally filled with those you love,

-Nat

Slowly healing...

2009-02-09T12:42:00.003-05:00

There is something infinitely healing

in the repeated refrains of nature

- the assurance that dawn

comes after night,

and spring after the winter.

- Rachel Carson

Sorry it has been a while since my last visit.

I haven't been feeling very well, and finally had emergency gall bladder surgery on Thursday.

I am slowly healing, and looking forward to getting back to normal. I'm thankful I have so many wonderful blogs to fill my time, and lift my spirits as I take it easy for a bit.

-Natalie

Forgotten...Brooksville, FL

2009-01-27T07:51:00.002-05:00

I came across a couple of homes when driving around snapping pics of local Southern Belles that, unfortunately, seem to have been forgotten. In stark contrast to their beautifully maintained & restored sisters, they are being abused by both time and the elements. Their graceful elegance is still apparent, and I can't help to think...

What if...

Can you see them, too?

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa, Florida

2009-01-22T08:11:00.004-05:00

"Discover the Real Florida"

How could I say no?

As much as I enjoy the long, gleaming strips of sugar sand beaches lined with restaurants - oh, yes, I truly do enjoy them :) - discovering the "real" Florida with the kids makes for a wonderful day. The fact that the kids learn about our new home state's native species, along with how the staff at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park take injured animals, heal them, and then care for them, is a nice bonus.

The manatees are the stars of the show. Watching them gently eat carrots, lettuce and other veggies directly from the staff's hands is a great demonstration of just how gentle these giants are. Unfortunately, their terrible scars show how our species is hurting theres on a daily basis.

Two of my favorite Manatees:

Now for what are probably our most famous natives, the alligators. Um...I'm just going to...move along. I'm sure the park's website will share lots of info about them. Let's just say I'm still adjusting to the fact that these guys live around here...

Hungry Hungry Hippo

We get these in our yards, too...

Can you even tell he's missing a wing? Believe me when I tell you it doesn't take away from his glorious presence. He's a reminder of the good that can be found in the people of this nation.

We're blessed that this park is just a hop, skip, and a jump (over a gator?) away from Spring Hill.

Baby Belles - Brooksville, FL

2009-01-17T13:43:00.004-05:00

They may not be as grand,

but I think they're every bit as special...

Which home tugs at your heart strings?

Southern Belles - Brooksville, FL

2009-01-14T11:30:00.003-05:00

A few of the older,

and stunningly beautiful,

homes found in Brooksville, FL:

I can almost see shadows of a different era when I look at these.

Brooksville, FL, Live Oak Canopy

2009-01-12T11:13:00.001-05:00

Live Oaks leaning over roadway in Brooksville, FL

My New Year's Resolution...

2008-12-30T09:46:00.004-05:00

Okay, so just one of many (I always set myself to fail big time - go big or go home...and by home I mean to D'n'D's for a Caramel Swirl Iced Latte no whip cream no sugar by Jan 02...where was I? oh, yeah) resolutions I'm making this year is to invest in some statues for our garden. I am definitely drawn to them, especially when they're aged and look like they've been there forever and a day. I better get cracking because forever doesn't just happen over night. Unless you smoosh some sort of buttermilk/beer concoction on 'em, like Martha. Seriously. Google it. Never mind I did it for you. Don't forget to come back and see my pics.

Back? Cool huh? I know, right?

Here are a few of the statues that pulled at my heart strings while strolling through the Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota:

I've got some kind of obsession with this guy. I own several small ones...

This one almost seemed to glow in the shadows, it's so white...

Little mermaid overlooking the coi, reminded me of Weeki Wachee here in Hernando County...

Floating over the coi pond, I feel serene just looking at him...

Any resolutions this year?

I'm baaaaaack! And I missed you!

2008-12-28T12:06:00.002-05:00

Sarasota was great! Not nearly as different from where I live as South Beach, or Key West, but there were definitely some areas that knocked my socks off. We had a really hard time finding waterfront restaurants - turns out that's because we headed the wrong way on Lido Key - but somehow always seemed to luck out and walk into a little place, with a little deck, a little table for two, and a great big view. I've got fodder for post after post and will definitely have to reign myself in from posting a bazillion posts about it. Siesta key is my personal favorite. Loved it.

It was great to spend some much needed alone time with my hunny.

The views were amazing.

This was our view, from our table, as we ate dinner one night.

Hope you are all having a very healthy and Happy Holidays!

I missed you - and your blog - more than I'd like to admit, hahaha,and am itching to catch up on it all.

For now it's back to reality, which included cleaning my grubby lanai - hopefully, and unfortunately.

I'm outta here...

2008-12-19T09:51:00.012-05:00

Leaving tomorrow AM for our mini-vacation to Sarasota, FL.

Where I hope to enjoy all of the below:

(all images found via google searches - not mine)

Hoping to take lots of pics to share with you all.

Thanks so much for sharing all your wonderful holiday photos, every time I've been able to sneak a few minutes online I've been devouring them with my eyes.

Sorry I haven't had time to comment,

I promise to make up for it soon!

Giveaway Winner!

2008-12-15T08:47:00.003-05:00

First a big THANK YOU to all who enterred!

Second a big SORRY that I'm late posting the winner!

Last, but certainly not least, our winner:

Just a BeachKat

Congrats!!!

If you haven't checked out her blog yet please do.

Her home, and her blog, are amazing.

Don't just take my word for it, see for yourself!

I'm trying to work on my post for all the home tour parties, as well as comment on the tree parties, but we've got some health issues goin' on in our house right now, ack!

Goodwill - $1.06 - and a few ornaments I already had...

Wanna take a gander at our tree?

2008-12-13T10:20:00.016-05:00

Well then, here ya go:

Our Tree - 2008

No tree topper this year because unfortunately it's not actually our tree anymore...

It's their tree fort.

Can you tell what they're thinking? I know them and can tell that they're asking me exactly just what do I think I am doing, and could I please back away from their tree fort...like now.

I keep having to pull the tree skirt out from under the pool table, and lay it back under the tree. I don't dare tie it up because then the whole tree is coming down. To be on the safe side the tree topper is in Li's room on her little tree this year, where it's safe, hopefully. In it's place I tied a big ol' bow on top instead. It's like the tree is a present...for the cat & dog.

Some of our ornaments:

I painted it myself...

I call this one John Mayer...

Snew made this years and years ago...

Santa's chillin' in FL...

Look familiar?

You know I just had to...

So glowyyy...

Can't get enough of checking out other families' Christmas trees? Me neither. Head on over to We are That Family's Tree Linky Party thingy majiggy as well as Thrifty Decor Chick's for even more!!!

Now I'd like to see your tree, tree fort, giant cat cheek scratcher, etc. Pretty please? With a big (huge) bow on top?

(Giveaway now closed - but check back soon!)

Remember when I said that your blog is inspiring?

2008-12-12T08:57:00.006-05:00

Well, it's so inspiring that when I saw a star with a capis looking finish on clearance at Marshall's for $5.00 because something was missing from it's center, I felt like I could make something with it. Something Christmasy. It's all your fault...I mean...thanks to you!

Star w/ a Capiz looking finish...

Little white dove, with some golden berries, that I had at home already...

4" pretty green ribbon I had bought at Tuesday Morning a couple of weeks ago...

I added a few red berries and some greenery borrowed off an ornament...

Then I hung it over a mirror...I'm unstoppable now.

Now for a couple holiday decorations I purchased at

Target 3 years ago but still love bunches:

I added this hanging snowflake made of greenery to the center of a piece of ironwork

on the wall of my entryway to give it a festive look.

My Front Door Wreath

The front door color is my current fave Martha Stewart's Shiraz. I was a little worried about how the wreath might look now that the front door isn't red anymore, but I think I like it better.

Please stop by The Inspired Room

and check out all the talented bloggers who have added their links.

Thanks so much for visiting today!

Please don't forget to comment on my Giveaway Post!

Some Florida curb appeal I find appealing, IV...& Giveaway!

2008-12-10T10:28:00.002-05:00

Today's the final day of pics...I had fun posting them and have ideas popping in my head (along with the sugar plums) of other types of posts I could do showcasing the variety of homes found around Spring Hill (ex: brightest houses). At the end of this post is a GIVEAWAY! Why? Because the kids like picking a winner, they're lots of fun, and I like giving you stuff.

Rare two story...how big is that window?

I'm pretty sure that's the biggest window I've ever seen...

This one has a different look...I like the stone in the entry...

and the cathedral style windows...

This house is so big it's more like a hotel...

A big balcony...

Archway over the driveway...

Detached garage with RV door...

Now it's Giveaway time.

All you need to do to enter is comment this post and let me know which home was your favorite!

That's it. Have more than one favorite? Post more than once!

( Enter up to 11 times)

What am I giving away? Well, something I've become addicted to recently, thanks to Cherry's Jubilee. She posted about how good Glade's Clean Linen smells (just like Snew's favorite YC Clean Cotton!) and I picked some up and discovered she was absolutely right. Here's your chance to check it out for yourself - on me.

1 Glade Scented Candle Holder, and 1 pack of refills in Clean Linen,

and a $10.00 CVS gift card.

These will come wrapped so you can put them under your tree as a gift from me,

or share them with someone else this holiday season! Good luck!

Contest open until this Saturday at Midnight...Girls will be picking a winner Sunday afternoon.

Some Florida curb appeal I find appealing, III...

2008-12-10T09:22:00.018-05:00

Thanks for checking back in on day three of my posts showcasing some of the homes in and around Spring Hill, FL that I enjoy looking at. I'm hoping that you do, too.

I love reading your comments on them and hearing about which you like.

And now for day 3's homes:

I like the square lines and covet all that garage space, unfortunately I caught it on trash day...

Very cool fountain...

This one is absolutely stunning in person...

I like the turret feel of the bump outs, and the corbels at the roof line...

This one is set back on a large corner lot...

I like the stonework on the columns and garage...

Circular courtyard feeling driveway leading to garage and entrance...

More of those corbels I seem to like, and the fountain I love...

Any new favorites?

Mine is still the first house from day 1.

Some Florida curb appeal I find appealing, II...

2008-12-09T09:50:00.008-05:00

Photographer I am not. If I had let Josh break out his mack daddy camera and take these pics for me they'd be much nicer. I didn't want to freak out the homeowners though, so I snapped all these with my little camera. Have you ever checked out Hooked on Houses? Now Julia knows

how to blog about houses the right way.

In any case, here are a few more pretty houses for you to take a gander at. The first house on yesterday's post is my favorite so far. Thanks to those who've posted their picks. Keep checking back as I share more. (Pssst...There will be a giveaway on the last post!)

Let's see if we can't find one you like today:

Beautiful tile roof, and the balconies call to my inner Juliet...

Entryway...the Florida sunshine was working against me...

Wrought iron fence and pretty posts...

I like the trim work around the windows, and the elegant entrance way...

Entrance with arched transom window...

A very similar balcony on another home, the bump out on the left catches my eye...

Close up of the balcony with double doors leading to it...

It is hard to capture the size of this home in a photo...

Covered breezeway leading to garage...

Hope you enjoyed today's homes, I've got a few more to share with you.

I'm off to get the Tea for One prize sent to my winner, Pink Ink.

Some Florida curb appeal I find appealing...

2008-12-08T12:44:00.004-05:00

Josh and I were out on one of our (that's a lot of o words in a row, right?) drives this morning to take pics for a BPO he's working on, and I decided to take a few of homes that caught my eye to share with you. Hope you enjoy this first batch, I'll be posting more over the next few days:

I love the palm lined & pavered driveway, as well as the little tower...

Pretty bump out master bath on the right, and more pavers and palms...

This one is more French Country than Mediterranean...

This is it's adorable little detached garage. They did a great job tying it into the house...

I enjoy our BPO picture taking drives because they allow me to explore the different neighborhoods in Spring Hill, and all around Hernando County. There is such a variety, and it is always inspiring.

Today's drive inspired me to finally get a few more palms planted.

Come back tomorrow for more.

Tea for one winner!

2008-12-06T19:49:00.008-05:00

My beautiful elves did pick a winner this morning before heading off to Grandma's to visit with Santa. He happened to stop by the clubhouse in her development to indulge in some cookies and milk with all the kids. Sorry it took me so long to get it posted. Hope I'm not on your naughty list.

Picking a winner:

My lovely elves enjoy a good giveaway drawing...

however it appears the attention loving poodle is quite bored by them...

Congrats Pink Ink!

Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. I hope you enjoy it. Please e-mail me (via my profile) with your shipping info. I'll be sending it out on Monday. Tuesday the latest.

I've already got another giveaway idea in mind so check back soon! Enjoy your Saturday night!

Sanity savers...

2008-12-04T14:10:00.006-05:00

Do you have any tried and true sanity savers in your home? I've got one that has become indispensable at alleviating clutter in my daughter's bathroom, a hanging shoe rack:

Not having to dig through drawers, or having all this stuff out on the countertop keeps the bathroom neater, and helps her get ready faster in the morning.

It worked out so well for us that I put one on her bedroom door as well. This keeps all her miscellaneous computer/game system attachments, extra pens & pencils, band necessities, etc., all in one area where she can quickly find them.

I've even added one to the back of my niece's door and she's already starting using it to organize her miscellaneous accessories, etc.

I've got pretty decorative boxes that I'm using in the master bath. I'm thinking of using a shoe organizer in there as well because it'll work better.

What sanity savers are you using in your own home?

I need all the organizing ideas I can get!

If you haven't signed up for my giveaway yet, please do.

Merry Sitsmas & a giveaway!

2008-12-02T11:15:00.014-05:00

Merry SiTSmas to all, and to all a good...

Giveaway!!!

Tea for One, The Octavia Hill Garden Collection, by Tracy Porter

Isn't it pretty? I'll also be including a $10 Target Gift Card, and a yummy package of Tea, so if you have a favorite flavor let me know.

It will be sent to you beautifully gift wrapped (or as pretty as I can accomplish), so you can give it as a gift, or keep it as a present for yourself under your tree!

Quick easy rules:

Comment this post = 1 entry

Following this blog = 1 additional entry, just comment again letting me know you're following.

Following me on twitter = 1 more entry, and again throw me a comment so I know!

This contest will close on this Friday at midnight EST, and the girls - I mean my beautiful elves - will be cutting up, folding, and putting all your entries in Santa's hat first thing Saturday morning.

Thanks for stopping by, and good luck!

Don't forget to stop by SiTS and join in all the SiTSmas fun - there are giveaways every hour!!!

Christmas past...

2008-11-29T12:09:00.010-05:00

Here's what I have done in the past in order to make the kitchen feel Christmasy on no budget. No budget as in no money to spend. This year I eyeballed the cranberries again and decided to wait and see if they go on sale! HA!

A couple of dollar tree ornaments and a bag of cranberries

make the holidays feel bright...

Already had the oranges and cloves at home, so I made a bit of no cost decor for the other countertop:

Cloved oranges make the kitchen smell like Christmas...

We've got our decorations starting to go up, but I have to admit they're not nearly as beautiful as yours!

Update: Just got in from Tuesday Morning and found a great frame for a pic I took of my Snew yesterday. Have to wait for a new computer so I can print it. Did I mention I broke my lap top?Twice. (I'm operating in safe mode right now, ugh. )

Pretty as a picture...

T.G.I.M.!

2008-11-24T15:08:00.012-05:00

Whew, what a weekend!

First some very exciting news: The F.W. Springstead Marching Eagle Brigade, my own sweet Snew included, placed 4th at the FMBC's! Woohoooooo!!!

Name in lights at the Tropicana Dome - Home of the Rays

They just left it all on the field...

We are so proud of her.

We took advantage of her Dad being in town to celebrate his Birthday and Thanksgiving together. At 10:30 am Sunday when I hadn't even gone grocery shopping yet I didn't think it was going to happen. Thankfully we pulled it all together and we all spent some much needed time sitting around together and being thankful for eachother.

Birthday/Thanksgiving celebration...

Birthday/Thanksgiving Cake...

I think we're going to it this way annually because it was lots of fun...plus, in addition to pumpkin pie, I got to eat chocolate cake, yum yum.

So, I'm officially done with Thanksgiving Day and am ready to move on to Christmas time. We're packing up all the Fall Decor and sending it over to my Mom's for her celebration on Thursday.

Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day with those you love and who love you.

I'm thankful that so many of you inspire me daily with your blogs!

Is it too early to give you your card?

2008-11-21T09:00:00.004-05:00

(Click on card for larger image)

(Inspired by SGM. )

It is a cold morning...

2008-11-20T09:20:00.007-05:00

and tender tropical leaves are yellowing,

desperately waiting for

the sun to warm them.

Tropical Tranquility...

Thankfully, he has now arrived, and is doing just that.

Now it's time to warm my soul by reading all your blogs.

Fun with paint...

2008-11-18T17:57:00.006-05:00

I went on RateMySpace today hoping for a little get up and clean inspiration...instead I painted my master bathroom's water closet. Ooopsie.

I used all left over paints and ended up with a color I'm really happy with.

I started out with this color:

Glidden's Cool Dip in daughter's bathroom

(ignore that print - it's temporarily there...which means it'll be there for years and years and years)

mixed in two plops of Martha Stewart's Shiraz (from front door), and one plop of Behr's Tate Olive (accent color in family room) and ended up with this shade:

greyish-pale-robin's egg but not really blue

It goes nicely with the Glidden Sea Sponge in the main area of the master bath and bedroom. We had painted it a chocolate brown color that made it too dark/dank/depressing. I love chocolate brown rooms, but it just didn't work in this little closet of a space.

Great way to use up leftover paint. Some might even call me green.

Have you ever mixed up your own paint colors before? Or do you have any favorite paint color stand-bys you use regularly?

Excuse me, Mr. Turkey & Ms. Fall, you have mail...

2008-11-17T12:57:00.009-05:00

Here is what Li was working on while chatting with her family in the Republic of Georgia on Skype:

She blows me away with her creativity and sweetness.

Here's my first attempt at One Pearl Button's pen project that I saw on Living Locurto:

Don't look too closely...

I also attempted JustaGirl's grateful garland but...um...it's not exactly photoworthy just yet. I'll post it after some tweaking.

Are you getting crafty with your Thanksgiving decorating?

58 degrees in sunny FL means...

2008-11-16T17:40:00.007-05:00

snuggling in front of this:

burning logs are so darn pretty...

and enjoying a few of these:

more s'mores please...

Now that it's actually pretty chilly around here it is dawning on me that I should probably start planning our Thanksgiving meal.

Snew's Dad is coming down to Spring Hill to watch her perform in the FMBC's, and we'll be having our Turkey Day festivities on Sunday so he can participate. She's really excited!

I'm also working on a variation of JustaGirl's autumn leaf garland where each leaf has something you're thankful for written on it...except I have no ribbon...so we're having to make some adjustments. If you haven't checked out her blog yet please do, sooooo many great ideas.

What're you doing to stay warm?

Give a girl some ribbon...

2008-11-15T13:11:00.008-05:00

and it becomes the gift that keeps on giving.

You might remember the pretty ribbon FawnDear had tied my prize with, and you might've noticed that it made an appearance tied to the little witch hat sign on this post...well, it's found yet another new home.

Here's our entryway topiary decorated for Fall:

with dollar store bittersweet vines and a pretty bow...

Close up of ribbon...

I've got Azorean beef stew simmering in the crockpot (has cinnamon & all spice in it...delicious), and Li just baked some chocolate chip cookies...it almost feels like fall around here...almost.

Thank you to Restyled Home for inspiring me to get out there and decorate my urn!

Dreaming of...

2008-11-13T09:27:00.008-05:00

I'm also dreaming of winning Jewel Street Designs' giveaway. Wouldn't those just be perfect to wear on my mini-getaway to Sarasota?

What indulgences are you dreaming of?

pssssst! I'm on Twitter, are you? Tweet me sometime!

Veteran's Day...

2008-11-11T15:23:00.012-05:00

First and foremost, a thank you to all who have served, and are serving, this beautiful nation.

Thank you.

Snew had the day off today so we went over to Pine Island, which is just a few minutes from Spring Hill, for a bite to eat at Willy's Tropical Breeze Cafe. It is this adorable little beach cottage building surround by a deck with picnic tables, located right on the beach on Pine Island, that serves the yummiest food. It is shocking how good the food is. Beyond fresh, beyond yummy...beyond words. Just perfect. And unexpected.

Willy's Tropical Breeze Cafe, Pine Island, Hernando County, FL

Snew had a hot dog, I had coconut shrimp (best I've ever had anywhere...try it, you'll see) and Josh had crab cakes (o...m...goodness they were delicious). Sitting there in those beautiful surroundings while enjoying a delicious lunch with two of my most favorite people was a perfect way to spend an afternoon with my baby girl home.

I'm the wind beneath her wings...

Here are a few more images:

View...

Palms and covered picnic tables...

Didn't spot any sea turtles today...

But there were lots of Sandpipers...

How'd you spend your day off today?

YOU could totally make these!

2008-11-10T10:22:00.001-05:00

Genious crafty gift ideas can be found by going here:

Join the fun!

Lush tropical landscaping...and a little lime in your coconut...

2008-11-06T11:37:00.009-05:00

Happened across a great post over at Lime in your Coconut today which was very timely for me.

Whilst out on morning errands, which consisted of stopping by our 4th little investment property, and doing a drive-by photo session on a home for a BPO (broker price opinion), we drove past a home that made me a little green with envy. Okay, a lot green...like a palm frond.

Image found at HGtv

It was a small, older home. I mean older in terms of Spring Hill. We're talking 70's. That's like ancient around here, lol. Nothing that would normally knock your socks off except that leading from the driveway to the front door it was a tropical oasis. The likes of which I have coveted ever since first spotting such beauty when visiting my aunt in Fort Lauderdale. I wanted to pull into their drive way. Fix myself a bellini. And casually stroll up that walk way feeling like an exotic goddess with a hibiscus flower carelessly perched behind one ear.

image found at HawaiianDays

Now, you're probably thinking "why not just do that at your house, Nat?" (I like that you call me Nat because we're cool like that.) Well, I want to. Believe me, I want to. Issue I have is that I bought a home in a deed restricted neighborhood. Plus side is that it is soooo pretty in here, and everyone has to keep their landscaping and homes in good condition, no rusted out cars on lawns, etc., etc. Negative side is that I can't create a tahitian jungle in my front yard. I'm ever so slowly creating one in the back (shhhhh! I only told you that because we're cool, don't snitch on me, k?) but I have to behave with the front. The pic in my header is my home and you can see that I've added a palm tree and a bird of paradise and am working my way to "controlled tropical" I'm calling it.

Please head over to Lime in your Coconut to read her post, and check out her beautiful tropical landscaping and home while you're there. If you want the full effect grab a little peach nectar and proseco on your way. Or maybe just a sweet tea.

WHAT???!!! (Top Design Spoiler)

2008-11-05T23:00:00.004-05:00

Do not read any further if you haven't watched the finale yet and are intending to.

Last warning.

This was my reaction to the winner:

I was totally pulling for:

Preston Lee

In my search for a pic of Preston, I came across this post.

It's here, it's here!

2008-11-04T14:05:00.005-05:00

Guess what arrived! It's WICKED AWESOME! lol

My Wicked banner that I won in Art-n-Sewl's give away came in, yay!

Being from MA, wicked is a part of my vocabulary. I thought this was normal for a big part of my life. I now know it is not. Things can either be wicked pretty or wicked ugly...wicked small or wicked tall...wicked cheap or wicked expensive...you get the idea, right? It's a little added spice to absolutely any adjective. Wicked handy.

Here's my wicked pretty prize hanging on my mantle. It's so pretty it deserves a much nicer mantle to hang on:

by Art-n-Sewl

My poor photo taking skills are not showcasing this properly. I'm looking at it now as I type and the letters are sparkling, and that green fabric....oh, I could live in that fabric, it's that pretty. Please visit her Etsy shop, where you will not only fall in love with her work, but will find that she's offering 20% off right now. Wicked cool.

If you like busts...

2008-11-03T18:26:00.008-05:00

and who doesn't? Please go here for a chance to win a wonderful prize!

And while you're there, help my contest winner, Mommy2LilGems, select her prize from A Fanciful Twist's Etsy shop! She's having a hard time choosing (can't say I blame her), and wants your input.

Here's one that reminds me of where we were at yesterday, Weeki Wachee!

The Sirens One Wish - A Fanciful Twist

St. Augustine, FL...or maybe not?

2008-11-03T15:22:00.009-05:00

Josh and I are trying to figure out where to take our annual mini-road trip to this year. We did Key West last year and are tempted to head right back down. I've heard great things about St. Augustine though, and think it might be the way to go.

Have you been there? Any suggestions?

I'd love to hear them!

Update: Just realized it's quite a bit north of us...being that we'll be going to celebrate my B-day at the end of December this could mean chillyness. My life is all about avoiding any weather where I can't wear my flip flops so I might need to re-think this.

Any suggestions for alternatives in points south?

A Taste of Jazz...

2008-11-02T15:30:00.003-05:00

Just got in from Weeki Wachee where Snew and the Springstead High School Jazz Ensemble performed at the HCFAC A Taste of Jazz. So much fun, so much food, and so much jazz to groove to. This is totally going to be an annual thing for us. If you live anywhere near Spring Hill, FL, it should be for you, too.

We enjoyed Thai Chicken with Rice, Hummus, Tzatziki, Tabouli, Chicken Parmesan....and there was soooo much more we didn't sample yet but will be sure to do so next year. Oh my goodness was everything yummy.

Once we were good and stuffed (I think it cost us under 10 bucks for the 3 of us and we had quite a variety!) we made our way over to watch the Jazz band. This was their first venture out of school grounds to perform, and I'm hoping it won't be their last. Super talented kids. We were grooving. Girl from Impanema was Li's favorite song.

Once I get the pics off my camera I'll post a couple. Li bought the most beautiful mermaid, of course...we were at Weeki Wachee after all!

Go here for more info on the Hernando County Fine Arts Council, and all they offer.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T22:41:00.003-05:00

Made it just before the witching hour!

Me & Li

My annual "Martha Stewart" pumpkin is on the left in front of the white one, lol. I made the holes to small this year. We had somewhere around 175 kids I'd estimate...down from last year and the year before. I thought being on a Friday would've meant more...hmmmmm......

Li had so much fun she didn't even want to trick or treat - she just wanted to hand out the candy!

mmmmcandy...

Once things slowed down we headed over to Snew's high school to catch the band play after the homecoming game.

Eagles

Hope you had a very Happy Halloween!

If you survived the 80's...

2008-10-30T19:14:00.007-05:00

then you need to go here:

and join the fun. The hostess' post has me in tears right now, I'm laughing that hard.

In the 80's I wanted to grow up to be either:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20BZID081Vk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quzY7ONePM4

The story of my first "Cabbage Patch Kid"...

One wonderful Christmas in the 80's, Santa brought me a "Cabbage Patch Kid". There was something different about this cabbage patch kid. I couldn't pin point it...she was just a bit off from other's I'd seen. But I loved her anyway, and was sooo happy to finally have one of my own.

She went everywhere with me, and at night time she cowered under my blankets with me, hiding from the boogie man. (or the giant green big bird - a story for another day) We were inseperable, and I was soooo happy to finally have one of my very own. Until the day my parents told me there was something wrong with her and that I couldn't touch her anymore. That she would make me sick. I was crushed. How could this happen? Why? Whyyyy???

Because she was fake. Santa brought me a FAKE Cabbage Patch Kid. A TOXIC fake cabbage patch kid.

I remember my Mom putting my doll into a big plastic bag...and I slept with her one last time and then went with my parents to a store where I had to hand her over to the lady behind the counter. Santa got us real ones the next Christmas, but I never forgot my girl in the bubble.

A knock at the door, a ring of the bell...

2008-10-30T11:57:00.005-05:00

and who should appear at my doorstep? The mailman with a package...for me!? How do I know? Well, there is my name...in the most beautiful script. (How did you write so beautifully?) I hold my breathe with anticipation and carefully open the box.

Nermal rushes over to investigate this exciting new arrival:

Inside is beautifully wrapped bundle:

How pretty is that ribbon? And inside it's protective tissue is a very special new addition to my Halloween decor. It's my prize from FawnDear's give away! Isn't he adorable? And he's thin enough to fit on my skinny minny mantle, but still nice and tall. This is harder to find than you can ever imagine until you have a skinny minny mantle and need to decorate it.

Say hello to Boo:

Thank you FawnDear! We love him! :)

My lanai is depressingly grubby...

2008-10-30T10:02:00.004-05:00

I made my Thursday morning run outside to make sure I hadn't left hoses, tools, bird feeders, etc. out in the lawn and to pick up any fallen grapefruits or oranges before the lawn guy comes by. He does not like it when there's stuff in his way needless to say. It's been too cold to do anything out there (we're talking 60's here people, I'm dying...I remember when this was warm...now I keep my a/c at 82, and that can be chilly sometimes...) so all was clean and clear. Except for the lanai. It's filthy. Gross. Nasty. I'm ashamed of myself. I've been telling myself I'll get to it. It's been a year at this point. Atleast. I jumped on to the computer for a little inspiration courtesy of RateMySpace and came across this one:

It's got the square lines of my pool. Mind you mine are on a much smaller scale. Mine is probably 1/5th the size of this home's. Maybe 1/6th... I decided check out zoegirl's other rooms and then WHAM! There it was. The end all be all of laundry rooms. Do you have any idea how many single socks awaiting their never to be found mates I could fit in this bad boy? Take a gander:

I could sit at that desk and create excel spread sheets for the socks categorizing them by color, length, material, when they were last seen together...you get the idea. That granite looks like it'd be a delicious flavor if it were ice cream. Something with caramel. And fudge. I think that classifies it as "yummy".

I can't belive I'm doing this...but here's my laundry room. Keep in mind that topiary print was from my last house and I haven't been able to toss it yet...and I plan on refacing those cabinets someday...and...and...LOL...can't believe I'm putting my "dirty laundry" out there. Isn't the light fixture fabulous? 5 *'s right? LOL!!!

Okay, back to house cleaning so I don't scare the little children who'll be coming to the door tomorrow with the interior of my home. Either that or I'll have to put the bowl outside so I don't have to open the door, haha!

Finally...

2008-10-29T14:20:00.004-05:00

We have pumpkins! Didn't seem like it was going to happen this year. Here they are:

One for Li, one for Snew, and one for my annual "Martha Stewart pumpkin". It's a tradition and I have to make it every year. It's basically polka-dotted. I'll post pics once it's carved and lit. I get picked on quite a bit for it, but I love it, so I don't listen. I'm thinking someday when I'm not around to carve it anymore it'll be missed, and someone else might decide to pick up the tradition and think of me when they do :).

Josh didn't want a pumpkin this year. Again. If they had a digital one that could simultaneously glow while tracking temperature changes and included a GPS feature that lists street names and could be bought at Circuit City or Best Buy then maybe, just maybe, he'd be into pumpkins.

Also, the kids spookified the topiary:

It looks really cool at night when it's lit up. Just some orange LED lights from Target, and some Dollar Tree spider web. I'm thinking of wrapping a black feather boa, and sprinkling some silver tinsel, around the base for added spookiness and shimmer on the night of Halloween. The only bad part of the kids putting spider webs all over the outdoor bushes is having to take them off. Not easy. Couldn't they make easy off webs? And sell them for a $1? :) The thing is...we're in FL...it's warm here(this year might be the exception, what is up with this weather???) and there are still real spiders crawling around. I wear gloves. And squeel in fear periodically because of a small crispy leaf or twig that somehow looks like a giant recluse spider in my eyes.

How're things at your place? Have you been done for a while? Or not even close, like me?