We are never really able to predict the outcome of any event in our life, but the outcome of this solar eclipse was very unexpected for me. I went into the event with many questions which I expressed in  Celebrating Our Path Of Totality, Texas Style .

As we begin a new year, I begin to reflect on family and social traditions that we enjoy here at the cottage. We have several recipes that we have come to enjoy every New Years Eve and New Years Day, those recipes that have been passed on through the generations. We gather up on New Years Day and watch the parades and big games, just a fun casual day. We will take a look at goals we may want to set for the New Year and reflect back on the year just passed.

Our Independence Day Celebrations are filled with flag's, parades, concerts, military honor guards, cook outs, hamburgers, hot dogs and fried chicken.  Our community has a wonderful parade that winds it's way through the tree lined streets where the neighbors are in the front yard's watching everyone's children and grandchildren walk or ride their bike in the parade, it truly is a Norman Rockwell scene of hometown.  Today I am taking a Quiet Time to  remember what this day really means to our country, our family and to me.  Many of our family through the years have served and are presently serving in the military to help ensure that we enjoy the freedom that we celebrate today.  Today I am so grateful for the freedom that we have and for all the folks who help maintain it on a daily basis.  American The Beautiful, From Shore to Shore, Let Freedom Ring  God Bless America! Peace and Joy Miz Helen

When you are traveling to our cottage the first thing you will notice when you come to our road is our flag that fly's everyday at the edge of our property. The privilege to fly that flag and to be free to speak to you today has been given to us by the sacrifices of so many men, women and their families through the years. We are stopping today for a Quiet Time to remember all those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. For more years than I want to count, I have been a Military and Firefighter Mom of Three Sons, one Daughter, Two Daughters-In Law, Two Sons -In Law, and Two Grandsons In Law, who have proudly served their country. We personally know the sacrifices that families make on a daily basis to ensure our continued freedom. We are so grateful that we have not had to give that ultimate sacrifice, but we are so proud to be able to hang 3 Blue Stars in our window that represent the 3 active duty family members that are presently serving our country....

As the low fog begins to roll in over the little village and the houses in the distance there is a fascinating glow that comes through the fog.  The colors of Christmas dance through the fog and a stillness is felt as I look up in the sky to see the winter moon. I wonder for a moment what those shepherds must have felt all those years ago when the angels came down to announce the birth of our King, God's great gift to mankind.  We will be celebrating His birth and honoring His birthday with friends and family.  We will gather and enjoy all the wonderful food that has been prepared for the feast then we gather round the tree and listen as someone reads the Christmas Story from the Bible.    Luke 2:8-14 "In The same region shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock.  Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of The Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel sa...

I took a walk this afternoon and the most beautiful red cardinal was sitting in the butterfly tree eating berries. I stood very quietly and just watched him for a while, his brilliant color stood out against the grey winter sky and the leafless trees. When I think of closing out 2011 with all of you that is what I think of is the brilliant color that each one of you have brought into my life this past year. You have come by to have tea with me, sat on the garden gate patio with me to watch the garden grow, and came right into the kitchen with me to  try out new recipes. We have gathered with friends on Thursday for Full Plate Thursday to enjoy each others company and the very best food.   We have laughed together and cried together, but most of all we have formed friendships. Each of you are so special to me and a wonderful part of my day. Thank you so much for being here! Wishing YOU Every Happiness and Abundant Blessings In 2012! Miz Helen