Good Things

It's been a busy week since I've been home, with doc appointments almost every day. And the rest of the time? Bringing my house up to "code" -- it's amazing how many spiders start webbing when you aren't there for a huge chunk of time! And, a groundhog has dug two holes under the house. Now looking for a compassionate way to get him to leave!

 

I've had fun with friends, too. While north, I met up with friends Pat and Susan.

 

They used to live in Lansing and moved to Petoskey after they both retired, and where they are living full, rich and happy lives with loads of volunteering and activities. We didn't get together last summer (though we did run into Pat on his volunteer stint) so this was a great catch-up. 

 

I have had time with friends at home, too. Friends Susie and Jane came for a lunch and wonderful afternoon of good talk. I made farro salad with chicken and they brought bread and dessert! Couldn't beat it! Then a fun dinner out with friends Mark and Jan at a favorite Mexican restaurant that we like (and Rick doesn't!) We always share the same thing -- a mega-sized salad and fajitas. I'm embarrassed to say this is how the table looked like when we were done! (Don't judge.)

 

I've had a couple of fun things come in the mail! My friend Jenny in England sent some delicious treats and a fun book I'll write about when I do the September book wrap. Meanwhile, some of my art blog friends might remember Joanne Huffman. I got the sweetest note from her saying she'd been inspired by my watercolors and did some of her own. Isn't this pretty?

 

If you remember Joanne or follow her on Facebook, you know she is one remarkable artist who works in paint, fabric, collage, paper, you name it! I think SHE is the one who inspires!

And, when I ventured north before Rick returned, I read this "thank you" in our guest book from Kate, chronicling our Art Camp experiences! Now THAT is a guest book entry!

 

Fall is definitely coming to Michigan. I'm seeing some early trees bursting in red; maple ice cream sandwiches are at Trader Joe's and pumpkins are starting to appear in front of the grocery stores and soon at my favorite pumpkin spot. I notice it in the change of light in the morning as it touches the trees outside my window. It's just different, more golden. Our temperatures have rallied with warmer days but it is just a matter of time. 

 

This table runner by Carole of From My Carolina Home, has the perfect colors to go with my dried Annabelle hydrangeas.

 

Meanwhile, inside, I'm slowly bringing out the fall look. 

 

This felted orange pumpkin came from Trader Joe's and the Royal Doulton in the lantern, "The Mask Seller," has long been a favorite of mine, a Christmas present from Mom and Dad around 1974.

 

The mantel is simple. Some gourds, some copper, the Della Robbia-style wreath my mom made more than 55 years ago. She went crazy making these and I'm so glad I still have one in flawless condition. I'll bring out the more "Halloweenie" stuff in October.

 

And, saving the best for last, Rick is home! He left August 13, arrived home September 14. A month of hills, camping, rain, border crossings, and time with friends old and new. Seeing him walk up the drive was my big smile of the month!

 

I welcomed him home with a lovely dinner.

 

There was a lot of catching up to do, but I'm glad he made it safely! Thanks again to those who followed him on FB and here and all your comments, and to Jenn and Joe, who put him up en route!