Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Still Home: Family, Food, Flowers and Farms!

 "The corn is as high as an elephant's eye

And it looks like it's climbing clear up to the sky!"

~ Oscar Hammerstein II, "Oklahoma" 

I love corn on the cob. It has been a family tradition since I was a child when my grandfather would plant "Croope Corn" and each year we'd harvest loads of ears from stalks far taller than I. Our "Corn on the Cob" dinner -- where all we ate was corn -- was a favorite.


Long golden ears with plump kernels, slathered in butter and salt, were stacked in bowls on the table and we ate our fill. We knew that Grandma would also be canning those sweet morsels and we would be enjoying them long after the stalks had been cut down. 


It's corn season once again and the week included a trip to my favorite corn stand. It was steadily occupied by with eager corn fans and as soon as one car left the parking lot, it seemed another would roll in.


Located in the country, just outside of town, it was a spot where one might run into an old acquaintance (as I did) or just enjoy the scenery on a lovely day.


I wish I had a photo of the fabulous dinner I made with that corn -- it was easy as pie. (Easier, actually.) It took about 10 minutes under the broiler and about five minutes to mix up the marinade. The longest part was the dreaded peeling-and-deveining of the shrimp! (I skipped the potato section of this, but those would be a great addition.) Here is the link to the New York Times recipe. That and a caprese salad made for a perfect dinner!

It has been a good week, punctuated by a successful garage sale haul and fun with family. I found this cute settee with a matching wicker shelf unit at a wonderful price. The settee is perfect for the family room and a wonderful replacement to the two chairs there. Lizzie likes it too!


The shelf unit went into the guest room, desperately needed for the overflowing bookshelves. That, of course, meant rearranging furniture and discovering all the spots that hadn't been well cleaned for far too long. Here is a "before" on a rare day when the bed wasn't piled with all the stuff I'd picked up from other rooms in the house!

And "after." After is better!


Here's a closer look at the shelf. I'm so pleased!

Rick's stepsister and her husband came to dinner on the evening before the East Lansing Art Fair. Kim Arden is a fabulous polymer artist. I'd show you her booth if I'd made it to the fair but please check out her website if you are in the market for some fabulous, colorful jewelry that will make you feel happy just wearing it!


The next day we had toddler fun! Molly and the kids came by for lunch and to spend the afternoon. The boys were fascinated with the charcoal grill and the "black rocks" that we used to cook the hot dogs!


Molly's birthday is coming up and we celebrated. The Little Big Guy took charge of the camera and came up with some pretty good photos for someone not yet five, especially one of his pretty mom! (I won't share the others here but I'm fascinated with what and how he sees and the things he chooses to photograph. That kid is getting a camera for Christmas and I look forward to the day I can take him on a photo shoot at the zoo.)


We enjoyed some time at home before setting out to a neighborhood yard sale just down the street. Probably the find of the day was a free box that our Little Big Guy used to collect pine cones and other bits he found on the street.


 A stop at the park was next. Guess who was in charge of pushing the tire swing!

 There were loads of smiles as they enjoyed the swing, slide and climbing on all sorts of playground equipment.

Heading on, we checked out the community garden where things were looking mighty healthy. Someone is having a wonderful harvest! The boys pointed out different things, especially noticing the pumpkins!


What's next? A stop at the fire station, where the boys were treated to a little tour of all the engines and ambulance.


They got to sit in the various cabs. "It's so high!" our Big Guy noted! 


The firemen were just terrific, explaining things to the kids in language they could understand. There were loads of big eyes and big smiles!


We wrapped up the day with a visit to Lizzie, who, being the retiring wallflower she is, hissed at them. I held her in a body lock so they could pet her and after we let her go to wherever she went, they tried desperately to find her. I have no idea where she hides out -- that cat is a master of hide and seek. Molly later said the thing they talked about most was Lizzie. I suppose it's the age  old thing of playing hard to get. As Stephen Sondheim wrote for "Follies," they had that "As long as you ignore me you're the only thing that matters feeling."


The garden is still scary. But pretty!


And some things never change. Lizzie is back at her post. 


Next week is our annual Art Camp, where my friend Kate and I head north and paint all week. I'm hoping the weather holds. I'm missing my daily swims! Meanwhile, I leave you with another photo taken by our Little Big Guy.  


 With my Big Guy!

Sharing with:    Pink Saturday     /    All About Home     /   Tuesday Turn About    /     Share Your Style     /     Love Your Creativity    

52 comments:

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

Wow, dear. What a day those boys had, starting with the trip to that farm. Corn is one thing most of us love, I think. The little big guy takes great photos, too. I like that settee and the way you rearranged your guest bedroom, too.

Rick's stepsister makes incredible poly clay jewelry. Her necklaces are stunning and I love the bells that are earrings, even if I can't wear them.

I hope the weather holds for you and you get to experience a fun Art Camp with your fellow artist, Kate.

ashok said...

Interesting to read abt your corn history. Corn is not a common diet for us.
The kids are adorable. Must have been great full with them around.

Valerie-Jael said...

What a lovely post. I'm glad to see your shelves are also overflowing, and that you also have places which don't get cleaned so often! Living life is so much more important than housework! Sounds like you all had a wonderful time, including Lizzie, and the new wicker seat is fabulous. Hugs, Valerie

Rustic Pumpkin said...

I recall, fondly, the farm stands in Virginia selling fresh, farm grown corn on the cob 10 for £1.00. Nowadays, it probably more like $1.00 apiece. I once grew corn, although it's not something that does particularly well in my corner of Wales, generally grown as fodder. However, I had moderate success with a dozen reasonable cobs after so much hard work! They were the best cobs ever eaten.

eileeninmd said...

Hello Jeanie,

Wonderful photos of you and the family. The boys look like their mother, they looks like they enjoyed visiting the fire station. I like the wicker settee and shelf, great find. Your salad looks delicious! We have a lot of locals who sell the corn on the cob, it is yummy! Have a great week painting. Take care, have a great day!

David M. Gascoigne, said...

Looks like a wonderful time all round, Jeanie. Those handsome boys are growing up quickly. Corn is abundant here too,with lots of Mennonites selling it at the roadside in familiar spots. I don't think we have ever had just corn for dinner, but many times we have done so for lunch. We eat ours plain, no butter, no salt.

DUTA said...

Corn on the cob was and is one of my favs. The difference - nowadays, with no addition of butter and salt.
I'm a great fan of bamboo furniture; here it's expensive. Enjoy your settee and matching shelf! Very good purchase!

La Table De Nana said...

What fun for those boys..and YOU..And Rick's stepsister's art work is wow..!What a talent.
Great finds Jeanie.. un renouveau is always fun..Makes us feel younger:)

Sharon in Las Cruces NM said...

Jeanie, this post is especially wonderfully happy and full of family love! the boys are charming and "all boy" and I love that their Mom and Dad give them hair cuts that look like a "boy" cut not the long golden locks hair style that many parents opt for. My boys had "boy" cuts also. Certainly loving the camera work by your new family budding photographer - he does have a good eye for framing the pictures. thanks for sharing your happiness with us all.
p.s. love your new wicker furniture!

coffeeontheporchwithme said...

I haven't had corn yet this season. Perhaps this weekend! Those two little guys are so perfect - inquisitive, fun, little boys. -Jenn

Iris Flavia said...

We have corn in the fridge since weeks and weeks - too cold for a BBQ...
Great you have such a lovely time there.

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Living in Florida everything is backward. Right now I would love a good ear of corn, but corn season here in the the winter!

Amy at Ms. Toody Goo Shoes said...

Sounds like a fun, and productive week! I gave my son a camera when he was really young - he is now a talented amateur photographer, and we are about to give him a special new lens for his 22nd birthday. Have a great time at Art Camp!

Pam Richardson said...

Jeanie, I love corn on the cob or cream style, it is a summer favorite. The settee and shelf were fabulous finds and you will enjoy both. Those boys are darling and I enjoy reading about them. They are little for such a short time.

R's Rue said...

So much summer fun. I love corn on the cob. Have a beautiful day.

Red Rose Alley said...

You found something good at the garage sale. Oh, how I love garage sales, and my neighbor is having one at the end of August, so I get first dibs on the items haha. I may sell some things there too. Won't make that much money, but it clears things out. I love that photo of the kids and the fire truck. They must have had fun looking all around. The tire swing looks fun too. It reminded me of the tire swing across the street from my house growing up, and when I visited my Mom, I would go over there and swing my son all the time. Nice memories for sure. Your guest room looks nice, Jeanie, and it looks like the cleaning and organizing has paid off. I like that white little desk and chair. And now you have a place for your books.

~Sheri

ps.....I love corn too!

Misadventures of Widowhood said...

I have such fond memories of the Lansing Art fair. Not sure I could walk it now.

Love your new wicker. As you know I have love affair with wicker. Don't often find shelves. Not sure I've ever seen one as large as yours.

Marilyn Miller said...

What perfect summer days. That recipe and the salad too sound delicious. Now I am wanting a meal of corn on the cob. I remember having a meal of corn on the cob and watermelon a few times as a young girl.
What fun to spend a summer day with your little guys too. Those are special memory making days. A camera is a great idea for Christmas.
Enjoy art camp next week.

Karen said...

We put a cheap digital camera in the hands of my grandson when he was about five. He's 16 now and carting around a big expensive beauty. Art is born and improves with the right tools. You and I know that!
You are so lucky to be able to spend time with the youngsters. I haven't seen mine in three years despite them only living in Toronto.

The French Hutch said...

Summer begins early here with sweet corn, early May and still going strong. A visit to one of our local farmer's markets every Saturday or Wednesday will provide all we need. I have to say an all corn meal sounds great, I love it too. You've had such a busy summer and I am sure those two darling boys were a handful. Great find with the settee and shelf. I'm always on the lookout for another bookshelf for all our books. Have fun enjoying the last days of summer.

Joanne Huffman said...

Such wonderful summer delights! Yummy fresh corn and fun times with the grands.

bobbie said...

Looks like a fun time was had by all!

Divers and Sundry said...

Fresh corn! I like it from the grocery, too, but you can't beat it fresh :)

I love the settee, and you have a wonderful guest room. Perfect! That tire swing looks inviting, either to push or ride. Your bright yellow flowers would improve any garden, and I'm with Lizzie in enjoying an opportunity for bird-watching. What a great closing photo! Happiness :)

Jenny Woolf said...

That Little Big Guy is a good photographer. I bet he'll be interested later on at what he wanted to photograph when he was little. It looks like a wonderful day you had with them - how nice of the guys at the fire station to show them around, and the cookout and playground sounds perfect for them. I bet they really look forward to visiting you! I'd be thrilled to have that wicker sofa too.
Have a wonderful birthday today, Jeanie!

Sandra Cox said...

All kinds of wonders and fun. Love the settee and bookcase.
Happy Birthday:)

Salty Pumpkin Studio said...

Little guy take good pictures for his age. The firefighter looks like Clark Kent! Wow, nice wicker haul. Beautiful day with family, thank you for sharing your photos
Happy Birthday Molly!

anno said...

Such happy times! Such happy faces! (And so happy to see them!)
Definitely borrowing your idea of a corn-on-the-cob dinner...

The Joy of Home with Martha Ellen said...

Such joyful happy times, Jeanie! You are a great recorder of special times. I really adore the wicker pieces you bought. My guys have enjoyed corn on the cob the last few days. It's looks like a great summer in your corner!

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Corn on the cob is a favorite of mine. Those boys re so cute and growing up so fast. What wonderful finds you have found. It’s great to find such great bargains. Happy Birthday Jeanie.

Prims By The Water said...

Corn on the cob and watermelon are two of my favorite Summer foods! YUM Janice

Miss Val's Creations said...

What good times! I love that fire departments still show the trucks! I remember them coming to the school as a little kid. The settee is a beautiful find. Corn season is wonderful! There are endless things we can do with the veggie. Someday you may figure out where Lizzie hides. I had a cat that used to go into the basement ceiling. It took me a long time to figure that out.

My name is Erika. said...

It looks like you had a great week Jeanie. Corn is such a great summer food, and your meal looks delicious. When my daughter was little we had a farm near us where you could go and pick your corn. Sadly the people retired and sold the land so it is no more. And nice garage sale finds. Your shelf looks great and that a is nice wicker couch. I bet it feels good to get your spare room cleaned. I also must say those kids are adorable. You had some fun, got some good photos, and they got a great photo of you and Rick. Nice. Have a great rest of your week and art week next week. Hugs-Erika

William Kendall said...

Cats are very good at hiding.

J.P. Alexander said...

Adoro el maíz te mando un beso. Te mando un beso
Enamorada de las letras

Iris Flavia said...

Oh, blogger. Ate up my not finished comment yesterday and then Ingo interrupted me, too!
So... another try. We still - since many weeks - not only have sparkling wine but also corn in the fridge The weather is just too shit#y for anything!
Your salad looks yummy, and it might warm up today!!!
Love the Lizzie-pic (of course).

Love the red glasses and fancy jewlery! The lipstick sure makes a point, toom, as the smile, oh, wish I was that brave.

Reckon you have an early artist/photographer there :-)
The firefighters sure have agreat heart.

Wo... now that is some look Lizzie gave!

Beautiful last pic!

Bonnie said...

Wow, the boys have grown up fast. I remember when both of them were born! They are the cutest.
Fresh corn sounds wonderful!

gigi-hawaii said...

Oooo, I love your wicker furniture - the settee and the shelves. Just gorgeous and in such great condition, too! You sure have a good eye for such things. As for the fire department, I wrote a post today about the firemen coming to David's rescue. He had fallen and could not get up. Oh, what wonderful people they were to help him!

Deb Nance at Readerbuzz said...

I love all the photos of the kids. They had a great time. I think it's a great idea to give a camera for Christmas.

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

fun with family is the best and fresh corn is delicious - great time it looks like

Karen (Back Road Journal) said...

What a fun and full day you had with your family. Your summer meal sounds perfect.

Sandra Cox said...

That's a great pic of your grands. Hope your day was as special as you:)

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

I learned not long ago that yesterday was your birthday, dear. Happy belated birthday, dear sweet Jeanie. I hope it was as sweet as you, dear friend.

Lynne said...

So cool that another photographer is coming
up the ranks within the family. It will be an
excellent gift for him.

Love the “sunny faces!”

Looking forward to hearing mor3 about your art camp!

Like your garage sale find bookcase and the spare room makeover!
Nice find . . . I like the settee as well!

Polly said...

A lovely happy post Jeanie. I love sweetcorn, I used to grow it on my allotment.

Lowcarb team member said...

What a lovely happy post this is, full of fabulous and fun photographs.
Happy days and special memories, you just can't beat times like this :)

All the best Jan

PS I like the look of the caprese salad.

Rain said...

Oh I LOVE corn on the cob...I anxiously wait for every August so I can buy some and I eat just boiled corn with butter and salt for days lol! :) The wicker finds are nice, I love that settee!!! :)

Pamela said...

What a big day for the boys! Love the photo of them looking at the grill. Lizzie is so sweet!

Sandra at Maison De Jardin said...

Such a fun post, Jeanie. Those boys are such handsome little men. And, Miss Lizzie clearly didn't want her home invaded - she is in charge, after all.

Tristan Robin said...

I am going to complain to my mother next time I talk to her that I feel I had a deprived childhood, never having a corn-cob meal! I love corn! One of my favorite songs in the musical Grey Gardens is about corn!🤣 Is that really your grandparents? Your grandfather looks just like Henry Fonda is The Grapes of Wrath!

I spied all the lovely old quilts in your newly organized bedroom! Charming! Did I ever mention that in one of my former lives I was a quilt artist? (I wish in my lifetime I had actually become a master of something 🥴🤣) Here's a little video of me on HGTV and my quiltwork: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0U-CUyF9FE
I love that you are able to get a second hand bookcase! We can't find second hand here in New Haven for the proverbial love nor money. There is a Goodwill (which is useless) and several very posh antique shops (not really a place to shop for items to cram with stacks of read or to-be-read books! So, I simply cardboard box them and put them in the cellar. sigh. At this age, I am not going to invest in a custom built piece, which is what I really need, so I'll just do without. 😩

My goodness! Tireswings and cookouts and firetruck explorations - those young fellas must love visiting you two! What fun!

Wonderful photo of you and Rick - you always look like you're enjoying yourselves so much. It's a wonderful testament to nice people being rewarded!

Enjoy the rest of your week - and thanks for sharing parts of your life!

Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble Christmas said...

Great pics of family and friends!! LOVE the settee and the shelf unit!! What a great score!!! Thanks again for always taking the time to stop by and visit a bit!! I truly do appreciate you doing so!! Stay safe, healthy and happy!!
Hugs,
Debbie

Lisa from Lisa's Yarns said...

What a fun stretch for you! We are loving the summer corn season, too. My fave thing to make is a potato and corn chowder. Kind of odd for summer when it’s hot out but the fresh corn makes it amazing. So glad you got some time with the boys! That picture of Molly is great. The fire station stop looked awesome. Paul would love that!!

Azka Kamil said...

Such happy times! Such happy faces!

Popular Posts