Friday, October 17, 2008

AUTUMN...AGAIN

FOR A FEW DAYS there I thought that summer had returned. Yesterday was around 80 degrees. Yes, it was beautiful, but geez, I thought this was autumn. Today should be in the 60's which is fine by me.


I just read the most inspiring post by Barbara at The Clark Homestead. Stop by if you can. It really expresses what so many people are doing these days and for some, what they have always done. Making do. Being frugal. Doing what our grandparents might have done. I can't say that I am one of these people, but I never did have wealth so some of it comes naturally. But - the idea is there. The seed that germinates into something. If I could I would put a windmill up or install solar panels. I would have a goat to cut the grass and a few chickens for eggs. What I can do is plant a better garden next year. I can refrain from buying that handbag that I don't really need. I can be more aware of where my money is being spent. These are tough times for a lot of people and we can learn from this. I have been reading a lot of blogs written by smart, strong women who are tightening their belts and getting on with life and doing their parts (big and small) to make their lives and those of their families good. There is a lot of doom and gloom out there right now, but I don't read it in those blogs. They are truly uplifting.

On a lighter note, here are a few pictures of some decorating I have been doing. I love my Fall "tablescape." We never use the dining room table, but this Thanksgiving we will do it proud because my daughter and son-in-law and grandsons are coming to Grammy's house - driving all the way from Massachusetts. With the dog.



Those glass domes and soup tureens were all bought at thrift stores for a few dollars each. The vintage suitcases the same. Really. See how frugal I can be?









There's a picture of Chloe strolling by. And of course, the king of the palace - Beau the poodle with some of his treasures - a sock and two stuffed animals that are now stuffing-less.


Have a wonderful day, dear bloggers. I love you all.



6 comments:

BClark said...

Thank you so much for the kind comments. I really enjoy going to thrift shops and yard sales, get a rush from finding something cool!! I used to be all about Ann Taylor and her buddies for my clothes, now I find designer purses, etc for less then $5.00. So I get something good that looks sharp and don't break the bank. What is the saying "Too soon old, too late smart". It has now become a challange to see how I can help us enjoy the good life for small change. I was thrilled with all I have been able to do with my garden and busy planning how better to do it next year. Being able to go to the cupboard and open a jar of our food, fun. Thank you again friend, Barbara

Mary said...

Violetlady,

I love all of your home decor and especially that warm area rug. What beautiful autumn colors and so homey. Is homey a word? LOL Anyway, I love it!

Your link to the Clark Homestead isn't working but I will follow Barbara's link in her comment.

Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful home with us.

Blessings,
Mary

Anonymous said...

Your dining room table looks beautiful. It's great that Dale and Beth and the boys will be down for Thanksgiving. You'll have a great time.

Someday, post some pictures of your house and the addition that Ken built. I'd love to see more of the kitchen especially.

Dom and I are tightening our belts too. I'm being really careful with grocery shopping - we're trying to clean out the freezer and pantry before buying too much more. I follow the sale papers and usually only buy what's on sale. We've cut down to one car so the car expenses aren't what they used to be. We just added some type of blanket-thing in the attic that covers the insulation and keeps the house cooler in summer and warmer in winter. We've noticed that our electric bill was less the past 2 months.

I know that our retirement accounts have taken a big hit, but I refuse to look at the numbers. I'm just keeping faith that they'll come back before we have to dig into them.

Jess said...

Love your fur-pets...they are adorable... I'm such a catlover, but I like dogs too.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend

Edie Marie's Attic said...

Hi Sweet Violet!
Being frugal is the way to go these days. My parents and grandma didn't buy like we buy today. I've found that half the fun of buying something is the hunt to find it at the cheapest price. I LOVE thrift store shopping & Home Goods, TJ Maxx & Tuesday Morning which is around here. There's so much out there that we can reuse from someone else's throw aways!!
You've found some beautiful treasures Violet! The domes are wonderful!! You can use them on any plate or stemmed plate. And the tureens are awesome!!
Hugs, Sherry
PS beautiful table scape too!

Linda said...

I love your fall tablescape and Thanksgiving with your family is going to be especially nice.
I'm a thrift shopper and you have found some lovely treasures....hugs, Linda