Tuesday, March 10, 2015

HOPPING DOWN THE BUNNY TRAIL!








  
I really wanted to chill at home on Monday...I've been busy and that's always a good thing for me, but I have so many things to get done (painting the furniture in Abby's room, cleaning out a big cabinet in my living room that is stuffed with all sorts of linens and dishes and accessories I don't even need...purging a few closets and organizing some clutter in the kitchen).  But Emily has Mondays off and the Call of the Wild came bright and early.  Our temps were in the 40's and I couldn't resist.  We went to an outdoor mall in the suburbs, she wanted to look at furniture at a Lazy Boy showroom.  I was surprised...they have some cool things.  Very affordable, too.  Then we hit Williams Sonoma, World Market (which I have never been to), Pier 1 (to see if they had anything new since last Thursday!!), and Anthropology.  This is the only store location within a close vicinity to us, so it's always a treat.  Emily likes to look at clothes because of course, she can pull them off.  I love the decor, displays, books and dishes.  The books really inspired me.  Tons of cookbooks and the photography is enough to sell them without any attention to the actual recipes.  And green, green, green.  I've mentioned before that I cook and we eat "clean" here, but I can see that we are really lacking in grains.  And the smoothies...you feel like a total slouch if you aren't having one every morning to start your day.  Since I watch my carbs, grains aren't a big option, nor legumes.  But I'm seriously considering the benefits of those. What are your thoughts on this subject?   Bottom line...love Anthro.  



 

I don't know how I can ever thank you for the really, really heartfelt comments on the lakehouse damage.  We are taking it one day at a time.  They are still working on drying out the place to salvage what they can...and then working on sterilizing everything so we don't have bacteria and mold when they rebuild everything.  Otherwise, it's all about patience and following along with whatever is required of us.  We've had sleepless nights but it's much better now.  The Husband has work to distract him and he spends a lot of time at the gym preparing for the big hiking trip over Memorial Day weekend (more on that later).  And as you can see, I never seem to have time to catch my breath.  I actually had a recipe to share with you but I think I've run out of time!

I'm truly feeling okay.  We will get through this and there will be many, many good times ahead.  For now...gosh, I so wanted to get a new post up so I didn't have to keep scrolling past those ugly pictures of the damage.  Now I have something good and promising to look at~ you, too.  If I didn't get by to personally thank you...know that all of you touched my heart and confirmed my belief that some of the best friendships are developed in our very own blog world.

See you soon!

Jane xxx

49 comments:

Sarah said...

Jane, with that sweet baby, life has to be good! ;-)
Your bunny plates are adorable, and I know your Easter table and meal will both be fantastic. The salad would be a definite go from me. Pretty and tasty!
I had to laugh with the 55 and the door open. That's considered COLD here. ;-(
Hugs to you, my friend.

Art and Sand said...

So much to comment on:
First - so sorry about the damage to the lake house - not good!
Second - oh, those babies!
Third - I laughed to myself about your comment of cooking 6 days a week and wanting one day off. Steve does ALL of our cooking and sometimes I tell him that I don't really want to go out on Friday night. I realize that he definitely wants a night off.

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

So glad that you are having some fun, shopping and getting all glammed up.
How fun to have those babies around.

Just thank God that no one was in the Lake House when you had all that damage.
Houses can be rebuilt but people getting hurt can't. Hopefully by Spring it will be all done and then you can enjoy the summer there.

Sounds like you have so much going on and that's a good thing. So enjoy your good weather - we are getting 90 this weekend - to hot to soon. We never had any winter or rain to speak of.
Have a great week and give that darling little girl a big hug from me.
Hugs
Mary

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

Things can be rebuilt, and you have so much around you that is positive.

Rita C at Panoply said...

I love those bunny plates, Jane! And I love me some sunshine and warm temps! Have a good week ending.
Rita

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

Elsie is so beautiful, Jane! I hope you got some pictures of you holding her. Love the pictures of hubbies holding the first grandbaby. I have a picture of mine looking like a real moosh with our now 4 year old granddaughter.

Nicer temps here, too, this week. I think today and tomorrow are supposed to be the winners! It will be wonderful to open the door and windows a little bit and get some fresh air in.

Susie said...

Blondie, You are a good cook. I too like to get out to eat with my man. Your husband is a good looking granddad. Those adorable babies. Hope you got some hugging. That sounds fun to get your hair done in MC mom's house instead of a salon. Isn't this warmer weather nice?? we needed it. Bless you, xoxo,Susie

Courtney@Golden Boys and Me said...

What a beautiful baby your granddaughter is! And I love those sweet bunny plates. My mom was a hairdresser when I was growing up (and she still does my hair) and I have the best memories from women sitting around our kitchen table getting their hair done. I agree with you..so much better than a salon :)

Vicki @ lifeinmyemptynest said...

You have inspired me - I think I need some bunny plates too :-)

NanaDiana said...

I can tell you are a lot calmer about the whole lake house thing than you were in the beginning. I am glad you made some peace with it...there are just things we have no control over and we can let them gut-wrench us or just accept them for what they are...and that is NEVER easy to do, is it?

LOVE that pic of your hubby and your sweet little granddaughter. There is nothing in the world like a ganddad and a granddaughter. Say..."wrap around the finger" 10 times in a row. lol

Have a great day, Jane. We are in the 50's here later today (they say)...whooo hooo.

Poppy said...

Hi Jane,

Well, obviously I've missed a few fabulous, as well as frightening episodes of Blondie's Journal!

Have just come from your previous post, and was shocked to see the extent of the damage to the lake house, but, please, like you said, it can all be fixed, and although you do have your work cut out for you, in the end, it will be an even better version of that home away from home.

Elsie is adorable, and that photo with her adoring granddad is precious - definitely a pic that deserves a frame!

Your outing with your daughter sounds like a lot of fun; miss my own mother-daughter days with my Liberty, but hope to be there for her birthday in May! Yay!!

As I type, the white crown on my head, cocooned in all the dark brown, bears a strong resemblance to those marshmallow cookies, only the first is not so appetizing!

Keep smiling, my friend...it's almost spring!

xo
Poppy

podso said...

I'm glad you are feeling better about things--and nice you can focus on other things. Spring is here, and it's wonderful.

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

Dear sweet Jane,
You sound strong and your attitude which is key and will get you through the Lakehouse ordeal. I applaud how quickly you have accepted what is out of your control and turned it into a sad life hiccup. I think to think good always comes out of bad and the human will truimphs.

Ottimo in Italian means Very well

Us too with the warmer weather which is glorious! Will hit 60 today, Yay!!! I'm going to enjoy going out today without a scarf and gloves. John and I have errands to run so dinner will be out and a treat. I too cook all the time and it's important to get out. I always tell John going out gives me recipe ideas... I know he sees through my excuse!

Love your bunny plates, Pottery Barn also has sweet bunny plates. I am sure the pretty ones you purchased will compliment your Easter table. Personally I prefer a table that is collected and gathered over time.

Sweet, sweet photo of Grand and Grand Dad!
xoxoxo,
Vera




Marigene said...

Jane, you have wonderful taste, those are the cutest plates! I hope you will be honoring us with an Easter tablescape.
Elsie is growing like a week and such a cutie.
Have a wonderful week...spring seems to have arrived here on the prairie.

20 North Ora said...

Jane - so glad you are keeping busy and enjoying that precious baby. Have had you on my prayer list daily -praying for quick and satisfactory results on the lake house. I know that has to be constantly on your mind.

Judy

Unknown said...

So happy you are feeling better. Beautiful picture of the hubby and sweet baby! Come over and see what I did with <$6 worth of fabric. :)

Kathleen Grace said...

The photo of your husband and Elsie...how adorable! The plates are so cute, I saw them at Pier 1 a couple weeks ago and was sorely tempted, but we won't even be home for Easter dinner so no point this year. I hope you'll show us your table all set and pretty with them though. I would love to see it :>)

Beth said...

Elsie is adorable! What a blessing! I have two grandsons an they are the apple of my eye. Grandchildren are wonderful. :)
I adore your bunny plates. Sounds like Easter will be special at your place. You do a great job cooking and tablescaping. Have a good week, Jane!
xo Beth

Vel Criste said...

So sorry about the lakehouse dear, hang in there. At least you got some spa-moments and little Elsie to get you by. LOVE your bunny plates, I have to go to Pier 1, that place is dangerous this time of year.

Julie Marie said...

Love your happy happy post today dear Janie!... sounds like your spirits are up and I am so happy. I MUST get some of those darling plates at Pier 1 before they are all gone!... your Italian restaurant looks so fun!... I know a bit of Italian (my uncle Tony was from Italy), and the name means, "really good" I believe... my little sister is actually in Italy right now on vacation!... your shopping day with Emily sounds fun as does your "spa" day. Little Elsie is a doll!... love your photo of your salad too!... I only buy cherry tomatoes this time of year too, the big ones are awful right now!... glad you are having some Springlike weather... much love, xoxo... Julie Marie

Primitive Stars said...

Oh Jane, I love the sweet bunny plate, so cute. Thinking Spring and Easter, putting out some bunnys too...love the picture with little Elsie, cute as a Botton. Blessings Francine.

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Jane, I've never thought that sharing the sad times of our lives on our blogs was anything close to a "pity party" thing..and it has never even crossed my mind that sharing our sad thoughts or bad situations would even make someone think in that vain. I just went back and looked at your lovely vacation home and I also would be SO devastated. It's not long before summer and I'm hoping progress is made so you can have your time there as always.
Do you really think people think about our posts like that if we share a down or sad time we may be going through?
I hope none of us are like that.

Your hair is gorgeous and has been since I've known you, and what a wonderful place to have it done.
Love,
Mona

Doreen@foxdenrd said...

I just knew you'd rally and get back to your old self. Yes, there will be nights you may not sleep as long or as well as you'd like, but that too will pass.

Now about that smoothie question...not really sure how to answer that other than to say I sometimes have smoothies for lunch, but never breakfast. For some reason I need something crunchy with texture for breakfast, but I enjoy making a smoothie with Greek yogurt, ripe banana, honey, vanilla, tapioca pearls and some milk. If I have it handy, I like to throw in some coconut for texture (you see a theme here?). I never really thought of it as a carb though, just something pretty healthy.

That's a precious picture of hubby and the baby. You're right, you need to frame it.

Spring is almost here, and things will start to look and feel so much better.

2 Dogs said...

I looked up Ottimo and it means very good, very fine, excellent, perfect, splendid :)

I've been coloring my hair for about 3 years and lately I've decided -- why fight it. Let it go grey. Who knows, it might look good now. LOL

Glad you are doing well. Big hugs!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Oh Jane,
So sorry about the lake house damage. I am so behind getting caught up on reading with the baby coming etc.
But geez, so so sorry.
And speaking of babies, that little Elsie is just adorable! Oh I bet your loving it. And Al holding her, just precious!
Grandkids are the best!
Those bunny plates want to make me run right to Pier 1. And I know your hair is gorgeous, as always!
Katie was at the hospital again last night but still sent home.
She sure is miserable right now.
So hoping he arrives fairly soon.
Big Hugs too, love ya, Cindy

deb @ frugal little bungalow said...

Easter IS early this year, isn't it. Here it went from Snow Season to Mud Season right on top of each other so I don't feel very spring-like yet. Love the bunny plates :) And Elsie! What a wonderful photo and memories to treasure :)

bj said...

Love the photo of your hubby and the baby..so sweet.
I just read about your flood...oh, my..I am so sorry. I know ya'll will get it all fixed up and it will be even prettier than before.
hugs to you, dear heart.

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Wonderful photo of your husband and granddaughter! I was away and just heard about your flood. I am so sorry Jane!

Carla from The River said...

Hello,
I just love the bunny plates. They are so cute.
Your ideas for Easter are great. Looking forward to what you do for decorating and food. And dessert. You always do such amazing dessert.:-)

Love the babies. :-)) So sweet.
Prayers to you with the Lake House.
xx oo
Carla

Anonymous said...

ha! I know exactly what you mean when you are at the hairdresser's. It's my favorite day of the month. I don't want to talk with the dresser or anyone else, just enjoying her messing with my hair. That's total relaxation for me!

Linda said...

I was happily sipping my coffee as I was 'visiting' with you this afternoon - until I came towards the end and heard about the lake house! How did I miss this??? Off to read what I am sure is a sad story......

RURAL said...

What a darling baby, so cute!

You are sailing through a terrible experience with grace, and goodness. And I'm sending good wishes for the very best outcome for you with our treasured lake house.

Jen

Bluebird49 said...

Things have really been busy, Jane! You have so much going on--but as you said--that's a good thing.
Elsie with hubby is a darling picture; he's smitten, for sure. I know you both are. How sweet of Emily to have everyone over.
We're supposed to send next week at our son's, and see them and our grandchildren. I hope I feel more up to going by Saturday...can't seem to get in the groove to do much lately. They'll pick me up when I get there, I know!
It's good to hear things are being cleaned up to repair the Lake House. Things will truly get busy then! Glad you and Emily had a good shopping trip---that's a great "pick-me-up!

xx Trudy

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

Babies bring such happiness into a family. I'm glad you are feeling better...water damage is the pits.

Stonecropsister said...

Hi Jane,
I popped over to your blog tonight to see how things were going with the water damage. I am so glad for this lovely post. You really are the nicest person, my heart went out to you and your husband having to face all that. And all these lovely comments. The blogger world is funny isn't it? So much support out there from such kind people. It made me feel good just seeing the comments on this post. Take care. xx Nancy

xinex said...

SO glad you are feeling better, Janie. Congrats on the grandbaby, what a cutie! Those bunny plate are so pretty, looks like you are all set for Easter. I can imagine how stunning your table will be and the food will be delicious for sure.....Christine

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

Such a sweet picture of your hubby. And granddaughter! So sorry about your lake house, hope all goes well there. You mentioned grains and then your next sentence started with "bottom", I had to laugh because my love for bread ends up on my bottom! Very little grains eaten here for that very reason. It's hard staying away from carbs too, how do you achieve that?
Hope you have a great day!
Blessings,
Cindy

Theresa said...

Love that picture of little Elsie and her Grandpa:) Framing is a must for it! That sure is a cute little bunny plate:) I still haven't gotten into the Spring/Easter mood but need to get moving! I pray that the Lakehouse will get back to it's original state and better! Sending HUGS and PRAYERS your way!

Unknown said...

So beautiful plate, the bunny is so cute! I'm sure that your Easter table will be full with womderful meals.


Spring cleaners Chelsea

Melanie said...

Aww...Elsie is so cute! I love the picture of your hubby holding her. Love the bunny plates you found - perfect for Easter. Grains and legumes...I try to limit my grains, especially anything made with white flour but I'm not totally gluten-free. I worry more about the GMO aspect of the wheat - unless you can find organic. I know some people can't digest legumes. For whatever reason, I can't digest refried beans or baked beans. Black beans, chickpeas, and Great Northern beans all agree with me. And since I eat mostly vegetarian, I do rely on legumes. Hope you have a good weekend!

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

Love the bunny plates! What a precious pic of your hubby and sweet granddaughter! Definitely frame-worthy! Hope spring-like weather is headed your way soon!

Sonia said...

Oh Jane, I'm behind in my blog visits and just saw that your lakehouse had damage! I'm so sorry. Thankful too that your kitchen was undamaged. I know that is a refuge for you and your family. If it's any consolation we had that happen to us about 20 years ago ...Went to Florida for Christmas thru New Years and when we opened the door to our home we were greeted with six inches of freezing cold water. Our pipes burst and we had to move out with 3 boys and a dog to a temp apt for 2 months while our home was "rebuilt", but in the end it looked better than before. Lots of work I know for you ahead. I'm sending you hugs! Cute pictures of the baby and family and glad you were able to have some time getting your hair done! Hang in there!
Miss Bloomers

Unknown said...

I'm on the same cleaning, no carbs or sugar eating routine. I miss pasta but the 20 lbs. I've lost is good incentive to keep at it. Although, I'm heading to Mexico tomorrow so there will be no clean eating there. ;) Your blonde hair is so pretty. What a fun salon and baby experience. Jane, I am so sorry to read about your lake house. I'm sure it can be repaired, but I do admire your great attitude. I understand the loss of all that hard work and memories. Your bunny plates are adorbs. Happy almost spring, Blondie dear!
xx, Heather

Pondside said...

Life, however good, is just waaaay better with a new baby in it! Your husband has such a tender look about him with his wee granddaughter. Just think of all the fun ahead of you!

Celestina Marie said...

Hi Jane, First off I am so sorry to read about the damage at your lakehouse. Oh my goodness what an event to have happen but I am so glad you sound like you are taking it all in stride and have such a wonderful outlook.
Elise is a little angel and so so sweet. Love that pic. Love your bunny plates and I think I better get over to Pier 1. The restaurant sounds so good and the name meaning
It's Good!! Your salad looks so delicious and I love cherry tomatoes too and even the grape tomatoes.

Looks like you girls have a fun time getting your hair done. The blowout is the best part. It will send one into a trance!!

So nice to catch up with your Jane and thanks for stopping by and your sweet visit.
Have a nice weekend and be blessed.
Hugs, CM

Stacey said...

I would love to get my hair fixed at a friend's house. How fun for all of you. :)

Your food all sounds so wonderful and gourmet.

Spring is coming!

susan said...

I don't know how you do it all! Those projects you have lined up - WOW! Do you ever sleep?
Your granddaughter is beautiful - she looks very cozy tucked into her grandfather's arms.
Have a good weekend and try to take a few moments for yourself just to unwind a bit.

Lulu said...

I love reading your chatty posts which not only catch me up on what you've been doing but make me feel like I was right there with you. I'm glad the news here is of a happier kind than in the last.

June said...

The damage at your lakehouse just breaks my heart Jane. I hadn't seen the post until just now. But seeing the photo of Elsie and your husband is just so sweet that now I am smiling away happily reading about smoothies, grains and hair color!
Take care dear and I am hoping that the damage is not weighing too heavily on you and that it will be cleaned up soon.
hugs from here...