How exciting to see a copy of Lake Life with Jane here! I enlarged it as much as possible but still could not read it but is exciting to know a newspaper woman!
Your granddog's frog-leg position on the floor is so cute for such a big dog. He sounds adorable. And I really like how your mantel is done for winter. I think I was drained of decor ideas too after packing away Christmas things and funnily enough I was about asleep tonight and flipping through a new magazine in bed when an idea popped into my head. I got up to go in the kitchen and pull out some metal things I thought about while reading the magazine and made some changes. If I'd waited until tomorrow I would have forgotten my ideas. So now I'm awake, just seeing what's new in Jane's world.
Our 19 degrees tonight won't be as cold as you have there but still we have faucets dripping and doors under sinks all open tonight. Sweaters are on the dogs with an extra blanket in their nests in my bedroom so I guess we're ready for it.
Keep warm, keep safe, and I'm so glad that you are seeing a new specialist for your arm. I just read Julia Reed's article in the new issue of Garden & Gun where she wrote about finally getting help for her arm by finding the right doctor. Don't accept that you'll have this pain and limited motion in your arm, surely there is help somewhere!
Wow Jane, that is a HUGE week you have just had. I will be thinking good thoughts about you as you go through the next week. Mammograms are important (just ask me why, I think mine in January 2013 ago saved my life (2 surgeries, chemo and radiation and then 5 years (2 down) of an anti-estorgoen type of nasty pill which I take daily with gratitude).
Appreciate that you share your path in life. Hugs.
Your newspaper article is amazing! I can't imagine writing a two page full spread all at once. You are very good with words and I know your readers must love it.
Tulo is beautiful! I love how his legs are all spread out behind him. Of course he's on the furniture. That's what all smart dogs do.
We love fajitas too...and tacos. We actually eat one or or both of those at least once per week. Then the left overs always turn into a salad.
Congratulations on the article. It had to be thrilling to see it in print.
I am having the same problem trying to figure out how I want my fireplace mantle. It has been pretty much the same for years and I need a new look. I think I may have to do some shopping.
Your Lake LIfe with Jane looks wonderful - congrats on that (and a steakhouse dinner, to boot!). I know exactly what you mean of the creativity lost after December. We had an appointment with our local home furnishings people coming to our house to exchange cushions on my husband's chair and I hastily went to my stash and pulled out a few accents so our house wouldn't look so bare when they came, lol. And I understand the anxiety that comes with well (and not-so-well) visits. Keep us posted and stay cozy. Rita
I like what you did with your mantel. It's similar to mine--I for some reason like to use white there after Christmas and I have an old family photo. The wine purse is pretty cool. Perfect for taking wine to a friends house.
LOVE your mantel! Mine looks the same, kinda boring:( That book sounds wonderful:) I am happy that your article was published! You are a wonderful writer and always keep my interest throughout your posts:) Have a blessed day dear friend, HUGS!
Morning Jane... Congrats on the newspaper article...you are published! Hahaha! Love your posts..long or short... Good luck with the arm...hopefully you will get some answers... One of my daughters has a Golden Retriever...same deal with the tail! Hahaha! Enjoy your week my friend... Cheers! Linda :o)
Wow, that is some prolific article, Jane! Congrats! How exciting. I love reading your posts, long or short, frequent or not. You have an ease of style that's fun to follow and let's face it, some really cute puppy pics to share! ;)
Hi Jane! First, congrats on your article - so exciting, and your name is even in the headline!! Love your not so little grand dog. I say spoil, spoil, spoil. He looks like a sweetheart. Your winter decor is looking great and oh my, is it winter outside, right? We have -30 windchill today, so I am grateful to be cozied up inside. Love Door County and Cedarburg - two of my favorites. Cedarburg has an awesome flea market in the summer. Always love your posts - long, short or in between. Enjoy the day my friend! Jane
Jane, Congrats newspaper girl! Tulo is just too cute and has his Grandmom wrapped around his little paw! I find Kris an earth angel with a kind sweet heart. i am sure you will enjoy your wine bag. Congrats on the win. Single digits, YIKES, stay warm and cozy as you enjoy fluffing your nest. xoxo, Vera
Dear Jane, I love your posts .. short or long! Your writing is clear, entertaining, warm and personal. Anyone who follows you must feel like an instant friend.
*** The neat thing about poetry is the reader is welcome to interpret it any way she/he chooses, I'm glad you read mine!
Good Morning Jane, I am trying to catch up with my friends this morning. We have a -2 degrees that they say feels like a -12. I just know I am staying in and keeping warm. We have the right to spoil our grandchildren whether it is the dogs or a child either way that is what grandparents do. I am glad you are going to see a specialist about your arm and praying that you get good news. Congratulations on your news paper article. I enjoy your blog and catching up with you. Take care and try to stay warm. I know that is hard to do. Many hugs and prayers from your Missouri Friend Shirley
I have to laugh, I have the opposite problem, I can barely find anything interesting enough about life right now to blog about. One of my daughters even complained this weekend about the lack of updates! It sounds like you have a lot on your plate. I sure wish I could get a copy of that paper to read your article. What a sweet gig! I hope your doctor can help with your arm. There has to be something they can do!
I think your mantel turned out very nice despite you saying you weren't feeling inspired. Glad to know I'm not the only one who has a little hoarding decorating room! I have a small area in the basement that is overflowing with all my household decor. I keep weeding out little bits but it doesn't look like I've made much of a dent. Tulo is such a handsome doggy. :-) Mmm...fajitas. I love them, too. I think I'll make some in the Crockpot this week. Maybe I'll serve it over rice or quinoa since I'm doing no-carb/low-carb, too. Love the wine purse that you won! Very cool. Congrats on your two-page spread in the newspaper. Is the article by chance on-line where we could read it? Good luck with all your dr appointments. Not fun, I know. I hope your arm will be OK.
Love your winter mantle! Hard not to look in to Tulos eyes and melt. Think spring and your cottage by the lake. I hope the specialist will find out why you are in constant pain with your arm. Keep warm with all of your doggies, Kathleen in Az
Your grand dog is so cute, Jane. Fajitas sound wonderful. Have to get the ingredients together to make some. It is finally winter here, we had about a half inch of powdery snow and it is 25 degrees. More snow on the way for the weekend. sigh. I hope you can find relief from your arm. Stay warm!
Congrats Jane on the article, how great.... Love the Granddog, such a darling. ... Cute purse too, that would come in handy. .. Always love to see your mantle decorated...Blessings Francine.
Thanks for sharing. I love the mantle. I want one so badly. I hope my new place has a fireplace so I can have a mantle to decorate. Your taste is somewhat like mine. I love the dresser. What you have done is perfect. It honestly makes it look like it's in a Cozy little corner. Love it! Do I have space that I don't know what to do with. Oh please! I have this apt that is driving me crazy. I'm used to small bedrooms and I didn't have a lot of furniture but I tried to create small spaces. Now I have this big bedroom that has unused space that I can'f fill right now and the wall is so wide that nothing looks right. My SIL suggested a chair in the corner, which would work. I am looking so I can make a reading space.
Congrats Jane on your article. You have such a great way with your writing style. Glad you got your wine purse. You will be stylin when you take a bottle of wine to any future get togethers. Happy New Year. Your grand dog is too adorable. Love that he gets to get comfy on the furniture at grandma's house!!!! Kris
Jane, how exciting to have your article in print! Okay, go get your arm and other parts checked! All over in a jiffy. Love you sweet grand pup, cute how he makes himself at home. Feels the love! Fajitas do found great, think I'll have to get on the ball and have some great fajitas tacos. Always enjoy your posts! Nancy Xo
I love your posts, Jane - makes me feel like we're friends visiting over a nice hot cuppa and you are sharing your Tidbits of Life with me. It makes you your wonderful and unique self.
Love the mantle, adore the black and white of sleeping visitor pootchie, and all the rest, well keep at it, and good luck with all the appointments - nice to get them out of the way so you can get back to more reading. Thanks for the recommendation of a good book, as I too am a voracious reader. Hugs. ♥
Hi Jane. I love your posts just the way they are so I hope you won't change a thing! I think the mantel looks great. I just adore a collection of favorite things, especially o a winter mantel. I enjoyed getting a peek at your "Lake Life" spread. Your grand dog is a very handsome guy and very lucky to spend his vacation with you. How exciting that you won the wine purse from Kris! I am sure you will find a good use for it too. Good luck this week.
Your newspaper article looks amazing!!! Congrats!!! That grand dog is precious! Nothing's better than staying with grandma and getting spoiled. :) I'm so glad you won that wine purse! Such a neat and unique idea! I can't even imagine those cold temps you're describing! We were at a "frigid" 37 this morning and it was the talk of the town! Ha! Do you have the Hallmark Movies and Mysteries channel? They have all kinds of good movies on right now. They've been making some of my favorite cozy books into movies and premiering them on that channel. A couple they've done are the "Hannah Swensen Mysteries" by Joanne Fluke and the "Flower Shop Mysteries" by Kate Collins.
Congrats. on writing what must be a wonderful newspaper article Jane - I bet people loved it if it's anything like your always interesting and giggle provoking blog posts. Way to go girlfriend! Love all the news from Chicago in winter - I must come in winter some year, I've only visited in the hot weather, it was miserable for me! Hoping to hear you will be coming south this year - and that we will be here so we can get together again. Let us know! Hugs - Mary X
P.S. Your arm shouldn't hurt still, please get someone to check that - I hate to know you are in pain.
Stop the presses! I know you had been writing for the paper but by the looks of that article your are a rock star! Way to go!!
I can't believe your arm is still bothering you, but yes, it's time to find out what's going on once and for all. And that milo certainly keeps life interesting doesn't he? LOL
I got a mammogram over the summer and you know what? They didn't squish me at all. Seems as if there is new technology that doesn't necessitate crushing your boobies. I don't want to get your hopes up because not everyplace has it yet. Hopefully yours does!
Stop the presses! I know you had been writing for the paper but by the looks of that article your are a rock star! Way to go!!
I can't believe your arm is still bothering you, but yes, it's time to find out what's going on once and for all. And that milo certainly keeps life interesting doesn't he? LOL
I got a mammogram over the summer and you know what? They didn't squish me at all. Seems as if there is new technology that doesn't necessitate crushing your boobies. I don't want to get your hopes up because not everyplace has it yet. Hopefully yours does!
What a great post, Jane! I ALWAYS feel like we just sat down together and chatted when I come here! That is some SERIOUS cold!!! Even my friend in Finland is having better weather than you right now.....although it has been WAY BELOW O last week in Helsinki! It's good you are staying up with your appointments and keeping healthy - or as healthy as possible! Sorry about your arm. Hope the doctor can help.....
Jane, congratulations on the writing for the paper! That is so awesome!! You should get them to send you an electronic copy so that you can email it to us! :-)
I have added the book to my reading list. I love to sit and read and if I don't watch it, I can spend an entire day reading a book. I just get so involved in the story, that I lose all sense of time. One in particular was 11-22-63 by Stephen King. The book was almost 900 pages and I read it in a few days. I couldn't put it down! :-)
Your life in Blondieville sounds busy, busy all the time. And yes, I have a spot that is almost impossible for me to decorate...my mantel. Our small TV is mounted above our fireplace mantel and it drives me insane because I can't put tall objects on the mantel. I've never had a TV mounted above our mantels and this is a new one on me. I'm at a loss as to what to do with it, so it stays almost barren..UGH! Your mantel looks beautiful. I love the layering and different items...it makes it so much more interesting!
I will stop with my book. :-) Love and hugs to you!!
Congratulations Jane on your article, you are such a talented and prolific writer-I am so happy and proud for you. Writing is an art and obviously one you have mastered it well.
Your life sounds busy, productive and nourishing to the soul-you go girl!
Congratulations on your writing accomplishments, Jane! You have such a talent for writing. We are in a deep freeze here, too! The winter festival starts this weekend, so everyone is thrilled with this weather! Your mantle looks great for the "after the holiday" season. It doesn't matter how much stuff we put up, it will look a little bare after the Christmas decorations are all put away. Although, I'm a clutterbug.....and it NEVER looks bare around here!! Your home always looks perfect! Have a good week, and try to stay warm! Smooches. Debbie xo
We have family in Cedarburg and Door Co, both beautiful places to visit. I went to school at Western Michigan a million years ago, I bet your articles are just wonderful. I love the way you have decorated, you have areal gift. Hugs to you and stay warm, Meredith
Jane- you do everything just right. I love reading about your days. How much fun to have a crate of books. I know what you mean- being on the internet cuts into my reading time. This year I have made a commitment to read more.
I am so happy to be back reading blogs and catching up with you, Jane. Your outlook always makes me smile. Congratulations on the column in the paper - I'll be it was great! Door County - that's a place I've always wished to visit. Perhaps when I retire we'll take a continental road trip and I'll get there.
Congrats on the magazine article! That is an honor and I know that you did a wonderful job with it. Your grandpup is quite the big guy. He fills up the entire chair! Your home is lovely and to answer your question, yes, I have lots of places that just don't quite do it for me, but I soldier on hoping to arrive at something satisfactory eventually.
That pup is so cute, I'd let him on the couch too, although that's not saying much, because my pups are always on the furniture here. In fact, mine are snoring right next to me as I write LOL
Enjoy the new year and don't work too hard, my friend :)
It takes me forever to get back in the swing of things after Christmas. My mantel is still bare... I did get a new clock for my birthday so it sits up there. I like what you did to yours and I get that the high/low shelf cabinet is hard to decorate. It looks good though. I'm so sorry your arm is bothering you. Hopefully you'll get some relief at the doctor. Happy Wednesday!
Love your ramblings Jane, and yes, I too have challenging spots to decorate. I am currently reading The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton. It's a novel I have been meaning to read for years and am so glad I finally picked it up!
Yep...pretty sure we all have spots that we think "what the heck"......just keep working at them and usually they come thru...right now, my problem spot is the wall color in all the house except for the master bedroom..(Bill and I repainted it before we moved in)...I have tried for almost 3 yrs to just live with the color but...gonna spend a few dollars and have it painted in the spring when the weather warms up. I love the way you blog...I love how each of us have "our way" of blogging. xoxo
This is weird. This post fir some reason was still in my browser on my phone and I don't see the comment I left a couple of days ago :(.
Anywho...STOP THE PRESSES!! I can't believe you have such a fabulous article in the papers. I knew you wrote for them, but I didn't know details. You go Jane!
Why is it female pets always seem to like males more? It doesn't matter that it is the females that feed them lol. Go figure.
Your granddog is a hoot. Looks like he knows where he can get away with stuff, and that's how it should be ;).
This is weird. This post fir some reason was still in my browser on my phone and I don't see the comment I left a couple of days ago :(.
Anywho...STOP THE PRESSES!! I can't believe you have such a fabulous article in the papers. I knew you wrote for them, but I didn't know details. You go Jane!
Why is it female pets always seem to like males more? It doesn't matter that it is the females that feed them lol. Go figure.
Your granddog is a hoot. Looks like he knows where he can get away with stuff, and that's how it should be ;).
Tulo is adorable!!! :-) Congratulations on your article that is wonderful! I love to read as well and there's always so many books so little time! Have you read The Light Between oceans by M.L. Stedman? Great book....have tissues ready ;-) Have a lovely evening.
Your granddog is a pretty boy! And I love your decorating style. My house is still looking bare after the Christmas stuff was put away. I am looking for something new to jazz things up a bit. Hope your tests go okay, I'm due for the dreaded mammo myself. And I do hope you find something to help your arm. It's not fun to live with pain, I know about that first hand after breaking my ankle so severely many years ago. I always enjoy your posts. Take care and enjoy the rest of the week!
I read you frequently but have never commented. I wish we had a way we could give you a thumbs up when we read your blog (and everyone else's). I am lazy about doing all the comments, even when I have read all of your fun words! I am Gayle, as my husband, Rollie!
A visit to Blondie-world is always fun! It's great that you write a column in addition to all your other busyness. I am thinking of getting another dog.
Blondie, Good luck with all your appointments. I liked the mantle 's new things. That big old dog..LOL, makes me think of my daughter big clumsy dog...totally adorable and a tail that hurts if wagged near you. I love what your husband said about your article. :) Gotta love those guys. Blessings sweet girl, be safe this week in the nasty cold. , xoxo,Susie
i couldn't find a way to email you or thank you for such nice comment so I hope you come back maybe to read that I really love that you read my blog. Whether you comment or not, I hope you and others enjoy what you read. That's all. :)
Love your rambles as you always have something going on! Bravo on your article. I hope to catch up on some reading this weekend as I am halfway through a Lisa Gardener mystery and I want to finish it. Happy weekend xo
Hi Jane, I've been lazy recently, and haven't kept up with anyone on the blogs, but have now caught up with you! You stay so busy. I read a good book recently that my Dr. suggested. It's called Ava's Man, by Rick Bragg, and is based on his family. It's set in earlier times, and is a good read.
Sorry to hear about your fall. I have fallen many times, and know the feeling well! It's embarrassing, as much as painful sometimes!
I'm still suffering with my neck pain, and believe it is a result of the flu shot I took in early January. It was in my left arm which stayed sore for about 10 days, and my neck has been stiff and painful ever since the shot. This vaccine usually doesn't cause any kind of reaction with me, so I'm thinking it's the "strain" they created the vaccine for this year. At any rate, I've had enough of this crap!
Love how you decorated your mantel and shelf. I think it looks lovely.
How awesome that you are writing for a newspaper! You have such a way with words and always bring a smile to my face. Sending warm thoughts to my friends up north and east..we are really cold her but no snow right now. Stay warm and cozy in your lovely home!
Such a cute post, I had to laugh when you talk about your granddog. I know what ya mean about "moose". He looks so adorable, and innocent I am guessing you love having him there and love to see him go too...lol Mine however is permanent, or mine and wont be leaving anytime soon.
Congratulations on the writing gig, Jane. How cool is that? I love what you did with the mantel and think all those pieces styled together look great. I like dogs but having one in our tiny cottage is out of the question. Even a small one would be in the way. . .we'd probably be stepping on the poor thing all the time. I'm glad you're seeing a specialist about your arm. Keep us posted. Hugs, Nancy
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Hi! I think I've made good time in coming back (as if all of you have been waiting with bated breath). I mentioned in my last post that perhaps I should make my posts shorter and do them more often. I was really happy with those of you who commented that things are fine the way they are. A relief, I just don't know if I could deliver anything less. I'm back just five days since my last post and yet I feel I can go on forever, but I'll try to spare you.
After I took apart of all my Winter Wonderland mantlescape I was left with something more barren than any sort of snow covered landscape. Zippo. Nada. For days. Once in awhile when I went downstairs to do laundry, I'd roam around my little hoarding room but just couldn't conceive what I could do with this huge mantel. I seriously have not felt any creativity or imagination lately. I just started to bring things up, beginning with my favorite pieces and then a mix of shapes, sizes and a bit of rustic and more refined. Can you see that in my gold gilt framed prints and then the pitchers? I really love to combine things which The Husband refers to as "my weird and not normal" side. Anyway, I like it and I'm not going to fiddle with this again till spring.
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This cabinet is somewhat of a challenge for me, too. Mostly because of the high side and low side. Does this sound crazy? I usually stick with the tried and true but this time I added the galvanized French flower pails and added dried roses from my son's wedding in August. A woven basket and pretty candle container on the upper part.
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I stepped away for this shot. It makes a little more sense--the height. I took these pics in the evening but it always looks better this way. I'm silly, I don't know why I'm rambling like this. Do you have a space that you struggle with? I'm just relieved I finished it up. I seriously had nothing anywhere for over a week. I think my family declared me clinically insane. Even the kids that think I have clutter everywhere.
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I had my granddog, Tulo, overnight Friday. We ordered pizza and made Mickey Mouse pancakes Saturday morning. The poor guy is just huge. Although he isn't supposed to jump on people, he sometimes loses all sensibility (like when we make brief eye contact with him), and when he does, you need to grab hold of anything in sight. He is a moose. My house is not big at all and his tail can knock over everything and anything I have on my coffee and end tables. But we love him, he looks forward to running around with Milo, finding all the dog bones mine hide away, and jumping on beds and furniture---something he's not allowed to do at home. Isn't that what being at grandma's house is all about?
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For a dog that's not allowed on furniture at home, he sure knows how to get cozy here! We love to spoil him.
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Abigail left a crate full of books she told me to donate when she moved out in February. I'm so on top of things I just never did. The other day I was feeding Nina who we keep in Abby's old room/guest room. Nina is our pet vulture, I mean parrot. She hates everyone but The Husband. She is a total hussy, especially since I'm the one who feeds her and risks having my fingertips bit off. Anyway, I digress. I found this book in the crate and read it in two sittings. If you like suspense and really good writing, crime and well developed characters in a small town, this is a book I highly recommend. The Husband is currently reading it. I'm really happy to be back in a book reading mode. I try to read at least 1-2 hours a day, which is nothing compared to a few years ago. Being on my laptop so much and also watching 'new to me TV', I have to set aside the time. Reading is knowledge and so important, especially to someone like me who has always treasured getting lost in a great story. Have you've read any good books you'd like to recommend?
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I won a giveaway from Kris at Junk Chic Cottage. This is called a 'wine purse'. It's insulated inside and has a clever little zip pocket as you can see which comes with it's own little corkscrew. I had never heard of such a thing but I have no doubt that I'll figure out how to use it. ^^ Thank you, Kris.
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In my 2015 Year Review, I failed to mention that as of March I had the wonderful opportunity to begin writing for a newspaper that serves a large portion of southwest Michigan and northern Indiana on a monthly basis. I love writing about decorating, gardening, cooking and pretty much the same sort of things I do on my blog. I was really honored to take up, err...have the opportunity to write two full pages for the December issue. I worked a good week on it; one day writing, 6 days proofreading! lol! The Husband kept asking me why this was taking me so long. When it came in the mail he looked at the two pages and said, "Amazing". I was so chuffed. Some of you had asked about this recent endeavor so I tried my best to take a little picture of the article. I was really complimented when I received a nice card from the editors over Christmas with a generous gift certificate to a wonderful steakhouse near the lakehouse. Great people.
I also failed to mention the two trips The Husband and I took with our friends, Cindy and Dan, to Door County, Wisconsin in May and Cedarburg, Wisconsin in November. How did I miss that fun? I adore Cindy, we met through blogging as I'm sure you know. So I wish I had planned my posts a little better. Love ya, Cindy, and we look forward to visiting you this year in your neck of the woods!! :)
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A quick dinner tonight. I love fajitas because there are so many ways to make them and I love the combo of meat and veggies, perfect low carb food. I usually do them with slices of sirloin but tonight I sautéed a mix of Chorizo sausage and lean ground beef. I love to pile on the onion, green pepper and tomatoes along with lettuce, cheese and guacamole, so I can't even begin to fold it up in a tortilla. Never do this on a first date. Definitely a sloppy affair.
It was a bit of a slow week here in Blondieville. We've had a lot of cold weather and last night we slipped into the single digits. Right now we are at 1 degree, and I appreciate it's not -1 degree as somehow that sound so much worse when we go negative. As much as we Northern states detest cold weather, we love to milk it...I really do think that. The shock value. I ran to the grocery store this afternoon. It was 3 degrees. Doesn't that make me sound so brave?! Geez, 30 seconds from my warm car to the inside of a well heated store. Came home, pulled into the garage and carried my bags into a warm house. Whew! Still, it's extremely dangerous for anyone who has to be out for a prolonged period of time and I stand near the window when I let the dogs out to do their thing to let them back in immediately, Layla's little paws are the size of my fingertips, can you imagine them on the frozen ground? Very dangerous in spite of how I make light of it.
I do have a busy week ahead. Did I mention Milo was able to pluck one of my hearing aids off an end table (and I know better)? Thankfully, my audiologist and manufacturer were able to save the wiring, etc., so I'm going Tuesday to have the sound adjusted in both (the new one and old) and I will be as good as new (well almost--I'll never hear like you guys but I'm grateful for what I have). Then I have the dreaded female sort of appointment Wednesday and will have to schedule my mammogram. How painful is that? And on Friday, I finally made an appointment with a specialist for my arm. I feel like I broke it yesterday. I simply want to know if this is as good as it gets or if there is something that can be done. That's the long and short of it.
So as you can see, posting more frequently doesn't mean a shorter post. Ah, well...that's just the way it is. :)
Jane x
posted by Blondie's Journal at 11:03 PM on Jan 17, 2016
"WINTER DECOR CHANGES & LIFE IN BLONDIEVILLE DURING THE 2016 DEEP FREEZE!"
63 Comments -
How exciting to see a copy of Lake Life with Jane here! I enlarged it as much as possible but still could not read it but is exciting to know a newspaper woman!
Your granddog's frog-leg position on the floor is so cute for such a big dog. He sounds adorable. And I really like how your mantel is done for winter. I think I was drained of decor ideas too after packing away Christmas things and funnily enough I was about asleep tonight and flipping through a new magazine in bed when an idea popped into my head. I got up to go in the kitchen and pull out some metal things I thought about while reading the magazine and made some changes. If I'd waited until tomorrow I would have forgotten my ideas. So now I'm awake, just seeing what's new in Jane's world.
Our 19 degrees tonight won't be as cold as you have there but still we have faucets dripping and doors under sinks all open tonight. Sweaters are on the dogs with an extra blanket in their nests in my bedroom so I guess we're ready for it.
Keep warm, keep safe, and I'm so glad that you are seeing a new specialist for your arm. I just read Julia Reed's article in the new issue of Garden & Gun where she wrote about finally getting help for her arm by finding the right doctor. Don't accept that you'll have this pain and limited motion in your arm, surely there is help somewhere!
Dewena
January 18, 2016 at 12:02 AM
Wow Jane, that is a HUGE week you have just had. I will be thinking good thoughts about you as you go through the next week. Mammograms are important (just ask me why, I think mine in January 2013 ago saved my life (2 surgeries, chemo and radiation and then 5 years (2 down) of an anti-estorgoen type of nasty pill which I take daily with gratitude).
Appreciate that you share your path in life. Hugs.
Joy
January 18, 2016 at 2:27 AM
Your newspaper article is amazing! I can't imagine writing a two page full spread all at once. You are very good with words and I know your readers must love it.
Tulo is beautiful! I love how his legs are all spread out behind him. Of course he's on the furniture. That's what all smart dogs do.
We love fajitas too...and tacos. We actually eat one or or both of those at least once per week. Then the left overs always turn into a salad.
Have a wonderful week!!
January 18, 2016 at 6:23 AM
Congratulations on the article. It had to be thrilling to see it in print.
I am having the same problem trying to figure out how I want my fireplace mantle. It has been pretty much the same for years and I need a new look. I think I may have to do some shopping.
January 18, 2016 at 7:06 AM
Your Lake LIfe with Jane looks wonderful - congrats on that (and a steakhouse dinner, to boot!). I know exactly what you mean of the creativity lost after December. We had an appointment with our local home furnishings people coming to our house to exchange cushions on my husband's chair and I hastily went to my stash and pulled out a few accents so our house wouldn't look so bare when they came, lol. And I understand the anxiety that comes with well (and not-so-well) visits. Keep us posted and stay cozy.
Rita
January 18, 2016 at 7:17 AM
I like what you did with your mantel. It's similar to mine--I for some reason like to use white there after Christmas and I have an old family photo. The wine purse is pretty cool. Perfect for taking wine to a friends house.
January 18, 2016 at 7:29 AM
LOVE your mantel! Mine looks the same, kinda boring:( That book sounds wonderful:) I am happy that your article was published! You are a wonderful writer and always keep my interest throughout your posts:) Have a blessed day dear friend, HUGS!
January 18, 2016 at 7:29 AM
Morning Jane...
Congrats on the newspaper article...you are published! Hahaha!
Love your posts..long or short...
Good luck with the arm...hopefully you will get some answers...
One of my daughters has a Golden Retriever...same deal with the tail! Hahaha!
Enjoy your week my friend...
Cheers!
Linda :o)
January 18, 2016 at 7:49 AM
How exciting to write an article that becomes a two page spread. The editors must have loved it - you should be proud :-)
January 18, 2016 at 8:35 AM
Wow, that is some prolific article, Jane! Congrats! How exciting. I love reading your posts, long or short, frequent or not. You have an ease of style that's fun to follow and let's face it, some really cute puppy pics to share! ;)
January 18, 2016 at 8:37 AM
Hi Jane! First, congrats on your article - so exciting, and your name is even in the headline!! Love your not so little grand dog. I say spoil, spoil, spoil. He looks like a sweetheart. Your winter decor is looking great and oh my, is it winter outside, right? We have -30 windchill today, so I am grateful to be cozied up inside. Love Door County and Cedarburg - two of my favorites. Cedarburg has an awesome flea market in the summer. Always love your posts - long, short or in between. Enjoy the day my friend! Jane
January 18, 2016 at 8:38 AM
Jane,
Congrats newspaper girl! Tulo is just too cute and has his Grandmom wrapped around his little paw! I find Kris an earth angel with a kind sweet heart. i am sure you will enjoy your wine bag. Congrats on the win. Single digits, YIKES, stay warm and cozy as you enjoy fluffing your nest.
xoxo,
Vera
January 18, 2016 at 9:21 AM
Dear Jane,
I love your posts .. short or long! Your writing is clear, entertaining, warm and personal. Anyone who follows you must feel like an instant friend.
*** The neat thing about poetry is the reader is welcome to interpret it any way she/he chooses, I'm glad you read mine!
Happy week, you have a lot on your plate ~~~~
January 18, 2016 at 9:45 AM
Good Morning Jane, I am trying to catch up with my friends this morning. We have a -2 degrees that they say feels like a -12. I just know I am staying in and keeping warm. We have the right to spoil our grandchildren whether it is the dogs or a child either way that is what grandparents do. I am glad you are going to see a specialist about your arm and praying that you get good news. Congratulations on your news paper article. I enjoy your blog and catching up with you. Take care and try to stay warm. I know that is hard to do. Many hugs and prayers from your Missouri Friend Shirley
January 18, 2016 at 10:05 AM
I have to laugh, I have the opposite problem, I can barely find anything interesting enough about life right now to blog about. One of my daughters even complained this weekend about the lack of updates! It sounds like you have a lot on your plate. I sure wish I could get a copy of that paper to read your article. What a sweet gig! I hope your doctor can help with your arm. There has to be something they can do!
January 18, 2016 at 11:00 AM
I think your mantel turned out very nice despite you saying you weren't feeling inspired. Glad to know I'm not the only one who has a little hoarding decorating room! I have a small area in the basement that is overflowing with all my household decor. I keep weeding out little bits but it doesn't look like I've made much of a dent.
Tulo is such a handsome doggy. :-)
Mmm...fajitas. I love them, too. I think I'll make some in the Crockpot this week. Maybe I'll serve it over rice or quinoa since I'm doing no-carb/low-carb, too.
Love the wine purse that you won! Very cool.
Congrats on your two-page spread in the newspaper. Is the article by chance on-line where we could read it?
Good luck with all your dr appointments. Not fun, I know. I hope your arm will be OK.
January 18, 2016 at 11:50 AM
Love your winter mantle! Hard not to look in to Tulos eyes and melt. Think spring and your cottage by the lake.
I hope the specialist will find out why you are in constant pain with your arm.
Keep warm with all of your doggies, Kathleen in Az
January 18, 2016 at 1:47 PM
Your grand dog is so cute, Jane. Fajitas sound wonderful. Have to get the ingredients together to make some. It is finally winter here, we had about a half inch of powdery snow and it is 25 degrees. More snow on the way for the weekend. sigh. I hope you can find relief from your arm. Stay warm!
January 18, 2016 at 3:12 PM
Congrats Jane on the article, how great.... Love the Granddog, such a darling. ... Cute purse too, that would come in handy. .. Always love to see your mantle decorated...Blessings Francine.
January 18, 2016 at 3:47 PM
Thanks for sharing. I love the mantle. I want one so badly. I hope my new place has a fireplace so I can have a mantle to decorate. Your taste is somewhat like mine. I love the dresser. What you have done is perfect. It honestly makes it look like it's in a Cozy little corner. Love it! Do I have space that I don't know what to do with. Oh please! I have this apt that is driving me crazy. I'm used to small bedrooms and I didn't have a lot of furniture but I tried to create small spaces. Now I have this big bedroom that has unused space that I can'f fill right now and the wall is so wide that nothing looks right. My SIL suggested a chair in the corner, which would work. I am looking so I can make a reading space.
January 18, 2016 at 4:30 PM
Congrats Jane on your article. You have such a great way with your writing style. Glad you got your wine purse. You will be stylin when you take a bottle of wine to any future get togethers. Happy New Year. Your grand dog is too adorable. Love that he gets to get comfy on the furniture at grandma's house!!!!
Kris
January 18, 2016 at 5:24 PM
Jane, how exciting to have your article in print! Okay, go get your arm and other parts checked! All over in a jiffy. Love you sweet grand pup, cute how he makes himself at home. Feels the love! Fajitas do found great, think I'll have to get on the ball and have some great fajitas tacos.
Always enjoy your posts!
Nancy
Xo
January 18, 2016 at 5:31 PM
I love your posts, Jane - makes me feel like we're friends visiting over a nice hot cuppa and you are sharing your Tidbits of Life with me. It makes you your wonderful and unique self.
Love the mantle, adore the black and white of sleeping visitor pootchie, and all the rest, well keep at it, and good luck with all the appointments - nice to get them out of the way so you can get back to more reading. Thanks for the recommendation of a good book, as I too am a voracious reader. Hugs. ♥
January 18, 2016 at 5:38 PM
Hi Jane. I love your posts just the way they are so I hope you won't change a thing! I think the mantel looks great. I just adore a collection of favorite things, especially o a winter mantel. I enjoyed getting a peek at your "Lake Life" spread. Your grand dog is a very handsome guy and very lucky to spend his vacation with you. How exciting that you won the wine purse from Kris! I am sure you will find a good use for it too. Good luck this week.
January 18, 2016 at 6:48 PM
Your newspaper article looks amazing!!! Congrats!!! That grand dog is precious! Nothing's better than staying with grandma and getting spoiled. :) I'm so glad you won that wine purse! Such a neat and unique idea! I can't even imagine those cold temps you're describing! We were at a "frigid" 37 this morning and it was the talk of the town! Ha! Do you have the Hallmark Movies and Mysteries channel? They have all kinds of good movies on right now. They've been making some of my favorite cozy books into movies and premiering them on that channel. A couple they've done are the "Hannah Swensen Mysteries" by Joanne Fluke and the "Flower Shop Mysteries" by Kate Collins.
January 18, 2016 at 7:30 PM
Congrats. on writing what must be a wonderful newspaper article Jane - I bet people loved it if it's anything like your always interesting and giggle provoking blog posts. Way to go girlfriend!
Love all the news from Chicago in winter - I must come in winter some year, I've only visited in the hot weather, it was miserable for me!
Hoping to hear you will be coming south this year - and that we will be here so we can get together again. Let us know!
Hugs - Mary X
P.S. Your arm shouldn't hurt still, please get someone to check that - I hate to know you are in pain.
January 18, 2016 at 9:12 PM
Stop the presses! I know you had been writing for the paper but by the looks of that article your are a rock star! Way to go!!
I can't believe your arm is still bothering you, but yes, it's time to find out what's going on once and for all. And that milo certainly keeps life interesting doesn't he? LOL
I got a mammogram over the summer and you know what? They didn't squish me at all. Seems as if there is new technology that doesn't necessitate crushing your boobies. I don't want to get your hopes up because not everyplace has it yet. Hopefully yours does!
January 18, 2016 at 9:33 PM
Stop the presses! I know you had been writing for the paper but by the looks of that article your are a rock star! Way to go!!
I can't believe your arm is still bothering you, but yes, it's time to find out what's going on once and for all. And that milo certainly keeps life interesting doesn't he? LOL
I got a mammogram over the summer and you know what? They didn't squish me at all. Seems as if there is new technology that doesn't necessitate crushing your boobies. I don't want to get your hopes up because not everyplace has it yet. Hopefully yours does!
January 18, 2016 at 9:33 PM
What a great post, Jane! I ALWAYS feel like we just sat down together and chatted when I come here! That is some SERIOUS cold!!! Even my friend in Finland is having better weather than you right now.....although it has been WAY BELOW O last week in Helsinki!
It's good you are staying up with your appointments and keeping healthy - or as healthy as possible! Sorry about your arm. Hope the doctor can help.....
January 18, 2016 at 10:45 PM
Jane, congratulations on the writing for the paper! That is so awesome!! You should get them to send you an electronic copy so that you can email it to us! :-)
I have added the book to my reading list. I love to sit and read and if I don't watch it, I can spend an entire day reading a book. I just get so involved in the story, that I lose all sense of time. One in particular was 11-22-63 by Stephen King. The book was almost 900 pages and I read it in a few days. I couldn't put it down! :-)
Your life in Blondieville sounds busy, busy all the time. And yes, I have a spot that is almost impossible for me to decorate...my mantel. Our small TV is mounted above our fireplace mantel and it drives me insane because I can't put tall objects on the mantel. I've never had a TV mounted above our mantels and this is a new one on me. I'm at a loss as to what to do with it, so it stays almost barren..UGH! Your mantel looks beautiful. I love the layering and different items...it makes it so much more interesting!
I will stop with my book. :-) Love and hugs to you!!
January 19, 2016 at 7:08 AM
Congratulations Jane on your article, you are such a talented and prolific writer-I am so happy and proud for you. Writing is an art and obviously one you have mastered it well.
Your life sounds busy, productive and nourishing to the soul-you go girl!
xoxo
Jemma
January 19, 2016 at 10:32 AM
Congratulations on your writing accomplishments, Jane! You have such a talent for writing.
We are in a deep freeze here, too! The winter festival starts this weekend, so everyone is thrilled with this weather!
Your mantle looks great for the "after the holiday" season. It doesn't matter how much stuff we put up, it will look a little bare after the Christmas decorations are all put away. Although, I'm a clutterbug.....and it NEVER looks bare around here!! Your home always looks perfect!
Have a good week, and try to stay warm!
Smooches.
Debbie
xo
January 19, 2016 at 11:58 AM
Congrats on winning! Beautiful decor combinations and so nice to see that the dog is spoiled!!!..:)JP
January 19, 2016 at 3:14 PM
We have family in Cedarburg and Door Co, both beautiful places to visit. I went to school at Western Michigan a million years ago, I bet your articles are just wonderful. I love the way you have decorated, you have areal gift.
Hugs to you and stay warm,
Meredith
January 19, 2016 at 7:43 PM
Jane- you do everything just right.
I love reading about your days.
How much fun to have a crate of books.
I know what you mean- being on the internet cuts into my reading time.
This year I have made a commitment to read more.
Enjoyed visiting,
Laura
WSP
January 19, 2016 at 8:39 PM
I am so happy to be back reading blogs and catching up with you, Jane. Your outlook always makes me smile. Congratulations on the column in the paper - I'll be it was great!
Door County - that's a place I've always wished to visit. Perhaps when I retire we'll take a continental road trip and I'll get there.
January 19, 2016 at 9:53 PM
Congrats on the magazine article! That is an honor and I know that you did a wonderful job with it. Your grandpup is quite the big guy. He fills up the entire chair! Your home is lovely and to answer your question, yes, I have lots of places that just don't quite do it for me, but I soldier on hoping to arrive at something satisfactory eventually.
January 19, 2016 at 10:28 PM
Congratulations on your article, Jane :)
That pup is so cute, I'd let him on the couch too, although that's not saying much, because my pups are always on the furniture here. In fact, mine are snoring right next to me as I write LOL
Enjoy the new year and don't work too hard, my friend :)
xoxo,
rue
January 19, 2016 at 11:00 PM
I totally understand the decorating after Christmas thing. I have been adding, removing, decorating, removing ... and I am still not finished.
January 20, 2016 at 1:54 AM
It takes me forever to get back in the swing of things after Christmas. My mantel is still bare... I did get a new clock for my birthday so it sits up there. I like what you did to yours and I get that the high/low shelf cabinet is hard to decorate. It looks good though. I'm so sorry your arm is bothering you. Hopefully you'll get some relief at the doctor. Happy Wednesday!
January 20, 2016 at 9:56 AM
Ha, I remember when that MOOSE was a little puppy. Same bone-chilling cold here as well.
January 20, 2016 at 11:16 AM
Love your ramblings Jane, and yes, I too have challenging spots to decorate. I am currently reading The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton. It's a novel I have been meaning to read for years and am so glad I finally picked it up!
Big Texas Hugs,
Susan and Bentley
January 20, 2016 at 1:04 PM
Yep...pretty sure we all have spots that we think "what the heck"......just keep working at them and usually they come thru...right now, my problem spot is the wall color in all the house except for the master bedroom..(Bill and I repainted it before we moved in)...I have tried for almost 3 yrs to just live with the color but...gonna spend a few dollars and have it painted in the spring when the weather warms up.
I love the way you blog...I love how each of us have "our way" of blogging.
xoxo
January 20, 2016 at 8:11 PM
This is weird. This post fir some reason was still in my browser on my phone and I don't see the comment I left a couple of days ago :(.
Anywho...STOP THE PRESSES!! I can't believe you have such a fabulous article in the papers. I knew you wrote for them, but I didn't know details. You go Jane!
Why is it female pets always seem to like males more? It doesn't matter that it is the females that feed them lol. Go figure.
Your granddog is a hoot. Looks like he knows where he can get away with stuff, and that's how it should be ;).
XXX
January 20, 2016 at 8:18 PM
This is weird. This post fir some reason was still in my browser on my phone and I don't see the comment I left a couple of days ago :(.
Anywho...STOP THE PRESSES!! I can't believe you have such a fabulous article in the papers. I knew you wrote for them, but I didn't know details. You go Jane!
Why is it female pets always seem to like males more? It doesn't matter that it is the females that feed them lol. Go figure.
Your granddog is a hoot. Looks like he knows where he can get away with stuff, and that's how it should be ;).
XXX
January 20, 2016 at 8:18 PM
Tulo is adorable!!! :-) Congratulations on your article that is wonderful! I love to read as well and there's always so many books so little time! Have you read The Light Between oceans by M.L. Stedman? Great book....have tissues ready ;-) Have a lovely evening.
Blessings,
Jill
January 20, 2016 at 8:29 PM
Your granddog is a pretty boy! And I love your decorating style. My house is still looking bare after the Christmas stuff was put away. I am looking for something new to jazz things up a bit.
Hope your tests go okay, I'm due for the dreaded mammo myself. And I do hope you find something to help your arm. It's not fun to live with pain, I know about that first hand after breaking my ankle so severely many years ago.
I always enjoy your posts. Take care and enjoy the rest of the week!
January 21, 2016 at 1:14 AM
I read you frequently but have never commented. I wish we had a way we could give you a thumbs up when we read your blog (and everyone else's). I am lazy about doing all the comments, even when I have read all of your fun words!
I am Gayle, as my husband, Rollie!
January 21, 2016 at 11:03 AM
A visit to Blondie-world is always fun! It's great that you write a column in addition to all your other busyness. I am thinking of getting another dog.
January 21, 2016 at 6:45 PM
Blondie, Good luck with all your appointments. I liked the mantle 's new things. That big old dog..LOL, makes me think of my daughter big clumsy dog...totally adorable and a tail that hurts if wagged near you. I love what your husband said about your article. :) Gotta love those guys. Blessings sweet girl, be safe this week in the nasty cold. , xoxo,Susie
January 21, 2016 at 7:14 PM
Hi Rollie,
i couldn't find a way to email you or thank you for such nice comment so I hope you come back maybe to read that I really love that you read my blog. Whether you comment or not, I hope you and others enjoy what you read. That's all. :)
Sending a hug,
Jane
January 21, 2016 at 9:41 PM
It's wondering how creative humans mind can be! You created gorgeous atmosphere at home. Your dog is the best part of yours home decorations )))
January 22, 2016 at 5:49 AM
Love your rambles as you always have something going on! Bravo on your article. I hope to catch up on some reading this weekend as I am halfway through a Lisa Gardener mystery and I want to finish it. Happy weekend xo
January 22, 2016 at 9:49 PM
Hi Jane,
I've been lazy recently, and haven't kept up with anyone on the blogs, but have now caught up with you! You stay so busy. I read a good book recently that my Dr. suggested. It's called Ava's Man, by Rick Bragg, and is based on his family. It's set in earlier times, and is a good read.
Sorry to hear about your fall. I have fallen many times, and know the feeling well! It's embarrassing, as much as painful sometimes!
I'm still suffering with my neck pain, and believe it is a result of the flu shot I took in early January. It was in my left arm which stayed sore for about 10 days, and my neck has been stiff and painful ever since the shot. This vaccine usually doesn't cause any kind of reaction with me, so I'm thinking it's the "strain" they created the vaccine for this year. At any rate, I've had enough of this crap!
Love how you decorated your mantel and shelf. I think it looks lovely.
Take care, and good luck with your appointments.
Love, Kathy
January 23, 2016 at 6:06 PM
How awesome that you are writing for a newspaper! You have such a way with words and always bring a smile to my face. Sending warm thoughts to my friends up north and east..we are really cold her but no snow right now. Stay warm and cozy in your lovely home!
January 23, 2016 at 9:28 PM
Such a cute post, I had to laugh when you talk about your granddog. I know what ya mean about "moose". He looks so adorable, and innocent I am guessing you love having him there and love to see him go too...lol Mine however is permanent, or mine and wont be leaving anytime soon.
Have a great week!
January 24, 2016 at 3:54 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.
January 25, 2016 at 5:03 AM
Congratulations on the writing gig, Jane. How cool is that? I love what you did with the mantel and think all those pieces styled together look great. I like dogs but having one in our tiny cottage is out of the question. Even a small one would be in the way. . .we'd probably be stepping on the poor thing all the time. I'm glad you're seeing a specialist about your arm. Keep us posted. Hugs, Nancy
January 25, 2016 at 9:28 AM
Your granddog is so sweet and congratulations on writing for the newspaper. How exciting!
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