HOLIDAY IN THE SUN

Junk to Joy Blog

2011-04-12T22:04:00.001-04:00

Hi There! I am not posting on this blog any longer, but wanted to give you a chance to

enter my giveaway on my new blog if you stopped by here!

You can find it here! Hope you'll come check it out!

It ends on April 20th!

Cheers!

Becky

Time For a Change!

2011-03-01T06:00:00.008-05:00

Guess What? I have finally moved to a new blog!!
I won't be posting here anymore, but will leave it
up until I have it made into a book.

I hope you will follow me over there!!
I will be having a blog launch giveaway soon, and
all other sorts of fun and inspiration!!

My new blog is Junk to Joy and you can find it here:
http://junktojoy1.blogspot.com

Love ya!

Happy Wednesday!

2011-02-23T11:14:00.001-05:00

Well hello everyone!!! There you are!
Sorry to have been away so long!!
So much going on at one time!!!!
Thanks so much to those of you who have checked in on me!!
You are so wonderful!

Hope your week is going well!
Mine is, though this week I am saying farewell to my closest friend.

She and her family are moving to NC on Saturday...my heart is heavy.

Maddy's BFF is her daughter, so we are both experiencing a loss.
Hopefully, we will see them when we head up that way for my
family reunion this summer. Please pray for all of us as we transition
through this.

I read this quote the other day and just love it:

LIFE IS CHANGE. GROWTH IS OPTIONAL.

I try to learn from life experiences like these.

I want to grow through them, and have them yield the
beneficial fruit that they should.

That doesn't mean it won't hurt sometimes.
That doesn't mean I won't cry.
It doesn't even mean that I won't be a little angry.

But it does mean that I will intentionally choose to move through
the aforementioned as quickly as possible, and look forward with
anticipation to all God has for me in the days and weeks to come!!

We all always have something we have to deal with

We can choose to belabor it, and let it weigh us down, and
keep us from experiencing God's best, or we can choose to

praise Him in the midst of it,

ask for His wisdom, comfort, or whatever it is we need,
turning our focus instead to Him and our many...and I mean
many blessings!!

So, today I am praising Him for the wonderful gift
of DeAnn's friendship for the past 13 years. We have
shared so very much, and she will forever be close in my heart!
Bless her and keep her, Lord, and give her joy in this new adventure!

What are you praising Him for today?

Love ya bunches!!

There’s Only One!

2011-02-03T09:21:00.001-05:00

So…

Maybe it is time…

To lighten up.

To be a little kinder to yourself.

Stop comparing yourself to others.

They could never be YOU!

Watch your self talk…

Be positive.

No shoulda, coulda, wouldas!

No if onlys or buts!

Embrace the uniqueness of you!

GOD does!

He made you that way! And in His book you’re perfection!

Treat yourself in some little way today

and know that who you are is not defined

by how you look, your mistakes, your finances, etc…

You are each a gift to me!!
Have a joyful day! I’m celebrating YOU!!

Love ya bunches,
Becky

Taking Flight!

2011-01-31T12:59:00.001-05:00

We are living in some tough times, aren’t we?

Oh I could go on and list all of the things that seem to be reeling out of control in our country, but I am not going to go there!

Have you been there lately?

Are your present life circumstances bearing down on you like a crashing wave?

Is your heart weighed down with concern for our country,
your family, or one you know?

If you are anything like me, your have answered these with a YES.

Well then….what are we to do? What CAN we do?

Where is our focus suppose to be?

That is the most important question during times like these!

I read this today and it really blessed me.
It is authored by one of my favorite pastors, Alistair Begg. He
has a ministry called “Truth For Life” and is an excellent teacher!

This is the best answer to correcting our focus!

It will always give a Christian the greatest calm, quiet, ease, and peace to think of the perfect righteousness of Christ. How often are the saints of God downcast and sad! I do not think they ought to be. I do not think they would be if they could always see their perfection in Christ.

There are some who are always talking about corruption and the depravity of the heart and the innate evil of the soul. This is quite true, but why not go a little further and remember that we are perfect in Christ Jesus??

It is no wonder that those who are dwelling upon their own {or others} corruption should wear such downcast looks; but surely if we call to mind "Christ Jesus, whom God made . . . our righteousness,"¹ we shall be of good cheer. What though distresses afflict me, though Satan assault me, though there may be many things to be experienced before I get to heaven, those are done for me in the covenant of divine grace; there is nothing wanting in my Lord--Christ has done it all.

Did you get that? All is taken care of in the covenant of
divine grace!

Our God is busy tending to ALL of the details of everything
that is going on in the lives of those who love Him, and in this world! His truth and His righteousness shall prevail!

We can mount up with wings of eagles, and soar far above all
the cares of this world as we trust in Him, and focus on His
righteousness!

Will you look to Him?

Come soar with me….

Isn’t the view incredible up here above the clouds?

Can you hear the hush of the wind on your wings?

He’s smiling at us flyin’ around and delighting in handling it all for us and our meditation on Him!

Now this is the LIFE!!

Have a wonderful week…don’t let anyone or anything
clip your wings!

Love ya bunches!

Becky

It’s Easy Being Green!

2011-01-27T19:44:00.001-05:00

Those of us who have a love for all things used, rusty,
timeworn, tarnished, and tattered find it ooh so very
easy to be green!

We see beauty and purpose in cast off things…

What about this old gate?

Can you see it as a headboard, or wall art, or a hanging pot rack? I can!!

I have to say that the delight I used to experience when I
walked into a fresh seasonally stocked retail store has vanished!

I have fallen head over heels in love with things that

***have a story to tell

***are part of days gone by

***show their age

***and have signs of being well-used and loved!!

We junkers rescue items from friends who just can’t
seem to love them like we do, from trash piles, thrift shops,
from garage and estate sales… you name it,
and we help to reduce land fills in the process!!

It’s a win-win for sure!!

My other love is for things that are handmade!

Especially lovingly handmade things that have vintage
or cast off components!!

I love incorporating vintage trims, lace and fabric into the
things I create. They just add character like nothing else can!

I also feel so great when I buy American made things, and support a cottage business rather than the huge
retailers that are jam packed with foreign merchandise!

Just gives me the warm fuzzies, ya know?

Won’t you come join the “new green” revolution!!

Look around your own home, and before you
say good-bye to something you already own…
ask yourself if you could repurpose it or break it
down and make something entirely new out of it!!

You will also save money!! Another plus!

But if you must, go ahead and donate it
or sell it, and one of us junkers will
find something to do with it!!

After all…it’s what we do!! {smile}

Hope you have a fab Friday and weekend!

I’m looking forward to catching up with all of you
over this weekend!! Sure have missed you!!!

Morning Has Broken

2011-01-18T09:20:00.006-05:00

{sidenote: I have tried to fix the format of this post
numerous times to no avail!! Back to Windows Live
Writer for me!!}

This morning, I took my Bible and my Streams in the Desert
devotional book and sat out on our front porch to greet
the new day with my Lord.

The sky was overcast, and a light mist was in the air, similar
to this lovely photo, but a mist not fog.

I was feeling so very scattered, like I was just
all over the place!
Do you ever feel like that??
I am getting over being sick, had a major sneezing fit
upon wakening, and woke to
to dishes in the sink...
bills to pay...
school with Maddy...
work in my shop...

I knew I needed some time contemplating;
contemplating the beauty of the morning, and the
great love of the God who gives breath to each new day.

Have you done that lately?

I watched as the cool breeze fluttered the fronds on
my little palm tree I love so much;

And watched and listened as all sorts of birds flew
by, and were chirping in the surrounding trees and bushes,

I sat and drank it all in....like a wonderful refreshing drink
from a spring fed well, all the while

praising God for the beauty He created for us to enjoy.

What an amazing love He has for us!

The beautiful gold He shines down on all of nature...He shares the
wonderful light of His glory, and gives us joy in the partaking.

Oh! I could get lost in it for hours!!!

But alas, a new day, and things to accomplish.

It simply couldn't have started off any better!
Time surrounded by His creation, meditating on His Word,
seeking His direction for the hours that fill my day...

God is so good!!

I leave you this morning with the lyrics to a wonderful song.

It was written as a hymn in 1931 by Eleanor Farjeon .
You might recognize it, as it was recorded by
Cat Stevens prior to his conversion to
another religion.

It is so lovely, and a sweet picture of God's love
displayed in all He created.

Morning Has Broken

Morning has broken,
like the first morning
Blackbird has spoken,
like the first bird
Praise for the singing,
praise for the morning
Praise for the springing
fresh from the Word
Sweet the rain's new fall,
sunlit from heaven
Like the first dew fall,
on the first grass
Praise for the sweetness
of the wet garden
Sprung in completeness
where His feet pass
Mine is the sunlight,
mine is the morning
Born of the One Light, Eden saw play
Praise with elation, praise every morning
God's recreation of the new day!!

Fabric Art Love

2011-01-09T12:16:00.003-05:00

Happy Sunday to you all!

Hope your day is full of praise, hope, and wonderfulness!!

I don't know about you, but I am constantly amazed
at the talented women I have
come across since entering the blogging world.

I sometimes tromp from blog to blog seeking inspiration,
and always find LOTS! Simply wonderful and delicious!!
Lately I have become completely enamored with
fabric art collages!

There are sooo many styles and themes, and last night
I finally decided to try my hand at making one.

My theme is taken from an old hymnal, and is carried
through the piece with lots of vintage fabric and trim.

What do you think? I am very pleased with the outcome!!
I will be putting it in my shop later on today.

These are so much fun because there are NO rules!!
Whatever is pleasing to your eye is what you do!!
In other words...it is very difficult to mess up one of these!
No perfectly straight sewing, raggedy edges...

YUM!

This piece has layers of vintage love, including 100-150
year old homespun linen, and about 75 year old eyelet fabric...

I find old fabric and trim to
be absolutely ENCHANTING!!

Only a few elements in this pieces are not vintage!

I also made these cards with vintage hymnal readings,
and vintage trim! These are in my shop now.

I will be making a collection over the next several days
of inspirational fabric art and collage cards and tags!

Have a joyful week!

Remember that moment by moment joy is a choice!!

Love ya bunches!!

GOT STRESS?

2011-01-07T09:10:00.004-05:00

Is there something worrying you this morning, my friend?

Very often, we Christians don't use the word worry...it seems
more spiritually acceptable to say that we're

just very concerned, Right?

Well, we all have stress in this life. It is completely and utterly
unavoidable. The question is then, when the stress comes,

What is our response??

I find myself sometimes not responding to these
stresses as a woman who really understands the great
love God has for me, so when I read this today, it
really blessed me, and of course, I have to share it
with my buddies!!

This is from the writings of Charles Spurgeon as
revised by Allistair Begg...incredible men of God!!

May we all truly cast our cares on Him.

It is a happy way of soothing sorrow when we can feel, "He cares for me." Christian, do not dishonor religion by always wearing a brow of care; come, cast your burden upon your Lord. You are staggering beneath a weight that your Father would not feel. What seems to you a crushing burden would be to Him but as the small dust of the balance.

Nothing is so sweet as to...

Lie passive in God's hands,
And know no will but His.

O child of suffering, be patient; God has not passed you over in His providence. He who is the feeder of sparrows will also furnish you with what you need. Do not sit in despair; hope on, hope ever.

Take up the arms of faith against a sea of trouble, and your opposition shall yet end your distresses. There is One who cares for you. His eye is fixed on you, His heart beats with pity for your woe, and His omnipotent hand shall bring you the needed help. The darkest cloud shall scatter itself in showers of mercy. The blackest gloom shall give place to the morning. He, if you are one of His family, will bind up your wounds and heal your broken heart. Do not doubt His grace because of your tribulation, but believe that He loves you as much in seasons of trouble as in times of happiness. What a serene and quiet life might you lead if you would leave providing to the God of providence!

With a little oil in the cruse and a handful of meal in the barrel, Elijah outlived the famine, and you will do the same. If God cares for you, why do you need to care too? Can you trust Him for your soul and not for your body? He has never refused to bear your burdens; He has never fainted under their weight.

Come, then, soul! Say good-bye to anxiety and leave
all your concerns in the hand of a gracious God.

Have a most blessed weekend, and let's all rest in Him!!
LOVE YOU!!

Ready to Ring!

2010-12-28T12:32:00.000-05:00

Oh my! I really need to introduce you to someone
who is very near and dear to my heart!!

MEET JUNIPER!!

Is Juniper just melting your heart already???
He sure has mine!!

This is a delightful creation of my friend and amazing artist
Michelle Palmer! I purchased this little guy last year because
it was love at first sight!!

He brings me such joy all year
through...I just can't put him in with all the other Christmas
stuff.

He's my buddy and always makes me smile no matter
what!!

Just look at that adorable little grin!

He is here to announce that we are ready to ring in the
fantastic new year full of hope and promise~~~2011!!!

Being that he is a snowman he does it with Silver Bells!! HA!

Juniper, my new little Christmas birdy, and I, all wish
you a new year filled with the JOY OF THE LORD!!

May He be your strength and your delight as you commit
your year to Him and seek to walk in His ways!!

BIG, CHILLY, {Brrrr} sunny Florida hugs and love!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Warmth of the Season

2010-12-20T11:17:00.001-05:00

You all amaze me so! Thank you so much for
your love, encouragement, prayers, and support!
Your sweet comments always touch my heart!

We all love a fire's glow, and how it warms
us through and through...

And we love candlelight that gives a room warmth,
and makes everything it casts it's glow on look so lovely...

But oh the warmth of the love of family at Christmas time!

Here is Sam and her family! We took this photo
out in the woods of north Florida where we stopped
on our way home to tend to the hunting area.

I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have them back here!
We have had lots of time together already, and I am so
looking forward to Christmas with all of our girls on Saturday!

I'll be posting a photo our four girls as soon as I can get it
from Birdy. It was taken on her I- phone. Can't wait to show
you all!

Here Emily just had to get up into the Cozy Condo
and do some sweeping! Too cute!

And coming out...

May will be here before you know it, and little
Miss Em' will become a big sister!

We are all so excited! Everyone thinks it's a boy!
That would be a first in the Stewart family
and Grandpa will be beside himself if God blesses us
with a little grandy boy!! Of course, he will be
delighted with a sweet, cuddly girl, too!!

God is continually teaching me about the significance of family.

The family is one of only two ordained by God institutions...
the other being the church.

So, from that alone we can know that family is of the utmost
importance to Him!

As our family gathers to celebrate the glory of the birth
of our Lord,

we gather as a bunch of imperfect people, that sometimes
take each other for granted, hurt one another's feelings,
make mistakes we're sorry for, are at different places
in our walks with God, but as a FAMILY...

a family ordained by God, for His purposes, that love
each other through it all, and that hopefully, hopefully...
will make God smile sometimes,
and fulfill at least some of the purposes He has put us here for!

The love and warmth of family...
sometimes
the hardest hurts,
most often
the deepest love,
the greatest blessings.

May you feel the wonderful joy and
warmth of family this Christmas...
and know the everlasting JOY
of being part of the
FAMILY OF GOD.

Merry Christmas to you all!

I praise You, Lord, for my friends, and thank You
for loving us so much that you sent your Son, Jesus,
at just the right time, to save us each from our sin!

Sending love and snuggly hugs!!

HOLLA TO MY SISTAS!!!

2010-12-14T10:42:00.002-05:00

WOW...SO HOW ARE ALL MY SISTAS OUT THERE DOING???

I have been missing each of you so very much!!

Sending you all...

((((((((((BIG SQUISHY HUGS))))))))))

AND SMILES!!!! ;o)

{photos from Country Living}

Thank you for sharing in the joy of having my girl Sam

and her family back home! It was a beautiful, safe trip
and they are beginning to get nestled in to enjoy this

MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!!!

I get a bit melancholy at this time of the year ever since my
parents passed away, but at the same time, I get so filled
up with JOY for the blessing of knowing the wonderful,
mighty Christ whose birth we celebrate at every year's end.

What an amazing gift God gave to us! Pondering what this

season is really all about always gives me renewed joy,
renewed sense of purpose, and a vision that will carry me

into the new year ready to impact the world for HIM.

I read a quote the other day that said this:

Be careful what you do today...

Because you will be spending a
day of your life doing it!

Such wisdom! I can't remember where I read it, but
I love it, and I want to make my days count for something
that will last!!! You know...

to ~~infinity~~ eternity and beyond!!!
{couldn't resist!}

I am more determined than I ever have been to further

deepen my walk with my Lord, and to let His love flow
freely through me to all I come in contact with.

"Stuff" is continually diminishing in importance to me, and
I am finding unbelieveable contentment in abiding in His
presence, and focusing on things that really matter to Him.

I still have so very much to learn about this amazing
God and His plan for my life. So as I enjoy the fun
and festivities of this 2010 Christmas season,

deep inside

I am feeling a calling...
a compelling....

to be intentional and fill the days of
2011 with thanksgiving, praise, prayer,
and worship to my Lord,
and to walk joyfully, and confidently, by faith
wherever He may lead. Amen and amen.

Sending love across the miles to you!!!
Know that you are always close in thought
even if I can't get around to visit with you!

Please click on that darling little
picture at the top of my sidebar!
There is still time to help CLIFF!!

Friday is The Day!!

2010-12-01T09:33:00.001-05:00

Friday is the day our Sam and her family will be back in Florida!!

Just in time to celebrate the joy of Christmas with us!!!

YIPPEE!!

My mother's heart is soooo full!
Can't wait to give them all big, huge hugs!!

Emily I'm sure has grown like a weed in the last 6 months!
She sounds so much more grown up on the phone!

What a wonderful Christmas present!

{photo from Country Living}

All you grammies out there know what I'm talking about!

Grandchildren add this dimension to your life that brings
unspeakable joy! And the fact that Sam is also bringing our second
grandy home in the "cooker" just delights my soul even more!

Next May we will be blessed by his/her arrival! Great birthday present
for me, huh? Happy Birthday to me!! {smile}

Just had to share my joy with you this morning!
Please pray for safe travel for everyone!!

Have a wonderful day, and know how very much
I appreciate each of you!!

Happy Cyber Monday!!

2010-11-28T21:45:00.001-05:00

Hi Sweet Friends!!

I hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving and a lovely weekend!!
We sure did!

I had my hunk of a hubby home with me from Tuesday through
tonight, and we've had such a good time!!
I am really kind of sad that he has to go back to work tomorrow!

My brother Doug and his sweet wife popped by for a visit...what
a joy!

We finished Ran's time off with a trip to Renningers in Mt. Dora.
It's a HUGE flea market and antique venue that neither one of
us can get enough of! He found some camo burlap for the Cozy
Condo hunting shack!! Guess I'll be making some camo curtains!!
{smile...really!!!}

I got a few sweet deals that will show up in my
Junk to Joy Shop tomorrow!

I have added bunches of vintage to the shop
and a few more Christmas items with more to come!!

AND THEN THERE IS CYBER MONDAY!!

Cyber Monday is the equivalent to Black Friday except it is
in cyber space!

All of your favorite retailers and, of course, my shop will be
offering some great deals!

Junk to Joy Shop is offering 15%
off of everything in stock!!

My sale begins tonight at midnight and goes through midnight Wednesday
November 31st!!! Hope you'll pop in and browse around!!

JUST USE COUPON CODE CYBERMONDAY2010 at checkout!!

I add new items daily so check back often!!

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Sending big hugs to you! I will try to visit everyone over
the next few days!!

BLACK FRIDAY 2010

2010-11-26T01:18:00.003-05:00

Just thought I'd spread some
holiday cheer with a fun
Black Friday sale at
JUNK TO JOY SHOP!

15% off all items thru midnight Friday!!
Coupon Code BLACK FRIDAY2010

Come join the fun!!

Hope your Thanksgiving was FAB!!
Ours was!! Thank You Lord!!

OH YEAH!!!

Join Junk to Joy Shop on Facebook
for shop sales and updates!!

Cup of JOY~~Heart of Thanks

2010-11-22T09:41:00.002-05:00

{photos from Country Living}

Thanksgiving comes around once a year,
and it is an absolutely delightful time to gather round
our tables with family and friends, and reflect
and share our many blessings. But our thankfulness for all we are able
to enjoy in this life, and even for our trials, should be given to God
each and every day!!

One thing I have truly come to understand in recent years in
a big way is that...

a thankful heart = a joyful heart

When we allow God to show us how truly blessed we are, even amidst
life's trials, He cultivates a deep sense of JOY in our spirits! The kind of
JOY that no circumstance can rob from us.

Who wouldn't want that kind of JOY??

So, do you ever find yourself feeling a loss of joy?

Find something...anything...to thank God for!
Maybe that you have clean running water, maybe that you
can put your hand on your chest and feel your heart beat,
or breathe in your next breath!

I heard it said once:

The more you thank God for what you have,
the more you will have to thank God for!!

This doesn't mean money, but it certainly could include
it if God wanted to do that. What it refers to primarily is love,
joy, peace, hope, all the wonderful gifts of God to His children!

I hope you'll join me in making a list of at least 25 things to
give God thanks for! We have way too many blessings to number!

Lets make a habit, together, of lavishing our thanksgiving on God
everyday of the year and just see how He multiplies JOY back to us!!

I give thanks for each of you;
how you touch my life,
and the lives of those you know and love!!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!!!

Love to you all!

WE HAVE 3 WINNERS!

2010-11-18T16:36:00.003-05:00

WOOHOO!!!

ALL THE NAMES IN THE...

VINTAGE FRENCH TART PAN...

OOO-LA-LA!!

THAT IS FOR SALE IN MY ETSY
{I'm such a salesman, huh??? LOL!}

AND THE NAMES DRAWN BY MY
WONDERFUL ASSISTANT ARE:

YAY FOR:

Janette of Janette's Sage
Valerie of Traveling Through
And Christine of JOY of 8!!!
(soon to be 9!)

Each of these ladies are real blessings to me!
You can find them in my sidebar!! Hope you'll go
visit them and get to know them if you don't already!!

I will need an email and mailing address for each of you who won!!!
Email it to junktojoyshop@yahoo.com!!! Thank you!!

This was sooo much fun! I'll be having one more before Christmas!!

Keep a watch on my shop, won't you?

I'm adding things daily!!

Whew! It Really Has Sprouted Wings!!!

2010-11-17T10:32:00.000-05:00

I am running like this...

Against this...

And look what happened!!

WOW!! Do you ever have this happen to you??

AND...my creative juices...well let's just say they are... hmmm...

Not gushing like I need them to!

Must. Take. Time. To. Breathe.{ Hee-hee-hoo-hoo}{smile}

I don't have pictures of the third giveaway, but it will
be a wonderful handmade creation of mine!!

SO...five comments equals five chances to win!!

ANNOUNCING 3 WINNERS TOMORROW!!

Back to the race!!

Have a fantastic day!

Big Fat Greek...SALAD!

2010-11-16T09:29:00.003-05:00

There is a local restaurant that sells the most wonderful Greek salads.

They have, however, gotten to be very pricey!! So I set about
making my own!!

I LOVE Greek salad and looked online for a recipe for the vinaigrette.
I knew what to put in it the salad, just needed a good dressing.

Well I found it and Sunday evening this was our dinner:

It was sooo wonderful!

We all like different things in ours,
so I put the lettuce, feta and salami in
each bowl and had the other ingredients
in separate bowls so we could make it
our way.

The basics of the Greek Salad we love are:

Shredded Boston lettuce
Good quality salami (I used DiLusso Genoa from WalMart. Better
flavor than Boar's Head and no MSG!)
(1/4" thick slices cut in 1" lengths)
Crumbled feta cheese
Kalamata olives (these were presliced)
Thinly sliced cucumber
Thinly sliced red (purple) onion

The vinaigrette recipe I used

1/2 c red wine vinegar
1 large clove minced garlic
2 T minced fresh parsley
1T dried oregano leaves
1/4 t salt (or to taste)
1/4 t cracked pepper
2/3 c Extra Virgin Olive Oil

I added:

2 T lemon juice
2 T sugar

Shake together all ingredients except olive
oil to blend. Then add oil, shake til blended
and use to taste.

Use the dressing sparingly. A little goes far!

I made garlic wedges from fresh "Everything" bread
and garnished my salad with freshly ground pepper.

YUM YUM!!

Let me know if you try it!!

More giveaway later this evening!
Love you lots!!

Cup of Joy~~Viral Infection! Giveaway Part Deux

2010-11-15T10:53:00.002-05:00

HAPPY MONDAY YA"LL!

Is it a great day to be alive or what??

How's your cup this morning?

Remember I told you about that fantastic book I found?

"Unleashing the Power of JOY"!!!???

by Dale Crawshaw

This book is so encouraging! He gives Biblical examples
of people who found joy amidst all different types of
circumstances!!

DEFINITELY MY KIND OF BOOK!

He says we are contagious! Yep, we have a virus!

A glorious spiritual virus inside that everyone around
us needs to catch!!! All of us who have been saved
by the grace of God are infected!!!

There are so many people
walking around that need
you to share a little, delicious
taste of your JOY with them!!

In order to be viral with joy, we have to walk in the victory
and freedom that Christ has given to His children!

We must look for the miraculous and the blessings
in each day instead of focusing on things that may make us feel defeated,
or depressed.

This just in....WE ALL HAVE PROBLEMS TO DEAL WITH
AND TRIALS TO FACE!!

HOW we face them is our choice!!

When we face our problems and day to day challenges
with our focus squarely on Christ
and all He has done for us, we cannot help but be
filled with JOY and make people wonder how we
could possibly be doing so well!!!

Then we will feel that wonder and sense of awe and JOY
that will make us so contagious that everyone around us will be infected!!

WE MUST CHOOSE TO WALK IN JOY!!!

AND THEN GO OUT INTO OUR WORLD AND
SPREAD OUR SPIRITUAL VIRUS TO EVERYONE WE COME
IN CONTACT WITH!!

NOW DON'T JUST SIT THERE!!

GO INFECT SOMEONE!!
Oh!!! Read this before you log off!!

PART DEUX OF MY
BLOGAVERSARY GIVEAWAY!!

A $25 gift card to my Junk to JOY Shop!!!

I will have my Christmas Frosting Collection almost all
listed by Sunday!! And then a little of spring
and summer and always some fun vintage finds!!

You can use it whenever you would like all the way up to
May 1, 2011!! Great deal, huh?

AND THE SHIPPING IS FREE!!

I just love you all so much! It is just a blast
doing something fun like this for you!

You know you make my day...

ALL THE TIME!!! {big smile!!}

I have one more giveaway to post, and then I will

announce the winners on Thursday morning!!

Love ya!!

Thrifty DIY Gift Idea Anyone Can Make! Really!!

2010-11-13T19:36:00.003-05:00

I promised you a wonderful gift idea that anyone can
make on the cheap, or more expensively!!!

Well here ya go!!

Some months ago I had the privilege of attending a wonderful

party where I had the pleasure of meeting my lovely

blog friend, Jeanne, at Backyard Neighbor. She made

pretty pedestal plates for everyone present and this is mine:

I absolutely love it! It travels from my bar to my workspace,
and I put everything from birds to muffins, to pears to
you name it on it, and it makes me smile!! {Love you Jeanne!)
I found the dome at Goodwill and
was delighted to see that it fit perfectly!

WELL, these are so neat, and can be made with very
little expense!!

You only need three items to make one! Pretty and inexpensive
plates and candlesticks can be found at Goodwill, Habitat
for Humanity, almost any thrift store. Or you can buy new ones
at Home Goods, Target, WalMart etc...

You can spend as much or little as you want! Literally!
Some are found for as little as $.20-$1.00 a piece!!!

Supplies:

Plate
Candlestick {I prefer the ones that have a little wider, more
stable base}
Glue { I used E6000 {strong odor that does go away,
but Gorilla Glue or any heavy duty
glue will work, just check the label to be sure!}

It doesn't get ANY EASIER than this sweeties!

Wash and completely dry candlestick and plate.

Turn the plate upside down, run a good amount of glue
around the rim of the end of the candlestick that
the candle goes in, find the center of
the plate, and glue the candlestick to it!

Press firmly, but not too hard!
You don't want to break the plate!

A 5 year old could do this for a gift for Grandma!!
{with a little help of course}

I applied a bit of weight to keep it in place while it
dried. Allow it to dry for at least 24 hours, and

WELLA!!!

Wonderful centerpiece!

I threw this together quickly,
and it still looks pretty good, huh?
Imagine what it could look like if I
actually took some time with it!

You can also use them for serving food, candles, tablescaping
with favorite things, vignettes...the possibilites are endless!!

The little domes are from cheese platters and also can be found
for a song at thrift stores!

Here is my plate trio without any decor

They don't look straight because of the angle, but they are!!
I used 3 of the same plates, and then 3 different size and style
candlesticks!

Another shot along with a fourth pedestal made with a vintage
silver plate candlestick, and vintage English stoneware:

ARE YOU EXCITED, AND ON YOUR
WAY TO BUY PLATES AND CANDLESTICKS?

If not, you can purchase this lovely trio from my Etsy shop!!

I will be making more, in different colors and combos, too!
Too much fun!!

I really hope you make one of these...you will want to make
many more, I guarantee!!

Have a praise-filled Sunday, gals!!
Love ya!

Posting part two of my giveaway tomorrow!! Your comments
enter you for all of the prizes!!! Up to five comments total allowed! YEAH!!!!

A Special Announcement and a Surprise!

2010-11-12T19:16:00.004-05:00

Only thirteen days left! How is your

THANKFUL-O-METER???

I am still just shocked that the holiday season is upon us!

But, it is a wonderful time of the year, and one I will
always look forward to! Just have to slow down,
soak it all in, and enjoy every moment!

I have to tell you, my heart is so overflowing with thankfulness!

Remember when I said our oldest daughter and her family
moved...about 6 months ago...and that I was praying for God's
will and not for my own {of course He did know what I wanted}
{smile}

WELL, not only are they moving back to Florida...

in 3 weeks....

SHE ALSO HAS A BISCUIT IN THE OVEN!!

YES, A SECOND GRANDY ON THE WAY!!!

IS GOD AMAZING OR WHAT????

I'm telling you, my heart is just soooo full with thanks for so
many things!

He has answered so many prayers, and yet some still haven't come
into fruition yet...with the emphasis on YET!! But that is fine and
dandy...it helps me exercise my faith muscle!! And I don't ever
want to have weak faith! Thank you Lord, for all of life's challenges,
that are merely opportunities for growing to be more like You!!

OK, MORE SURPRISES!! ISN'T THIS FUN???

I have decided to have a few different giveaways!!! More opportunities
to win!! WOOHOO!! Gotta LOVE that!!

The first one is for one of these babies!!!!

How does a little extra cash in your purse sound?
Like cha ching??!!

I am extending the giveaway period to next Wednesday!

All you have to do is comment to be entered!

THE ONLY RULE is that you are only allowed 5 entries!

I'll be posting giveaway #2 this weekend and then there will

be a THIRD giveaway Monday evening!!

AND TOMORROW FOR ALL OF YOU who think
you are not creative, and can't make anything...

I have the most perfect DIY gift idea that ANYONE can do and best of all...

IT IS SO INEXPENSIVE AND LOVELY!!

Have a wonderful evening and keep
commenting for more chances to win!!

I Haven't Forgotten!!

2010-11-11T08:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Sweet Friends!!

I have not forgotten about my giveaway!!

I will have at least part of it up by the end of the
day today or tomorrow!

Please come back and enter some more!
The only rule is that each comment counts as
an entry, and you are allowed up to five!!

I really want some dried hydrangeas this color!!
(Sidenote**Christmas...only 7 weeks! How can it
be? This year is the fastest by far!)

In my hunt for vintage treasures for my shop,
I came across two books that are so wonderful
I just have to share them with you!!

One is titled "Hilltop Verses and Prayers"
and the other is "Unleashing the Power of JOY"!

Don't they both sound yummy??

I will be sharing excerpts from the JOY one on
Monday Morning Cup of JOY,
and will share the other from time to time in
regular blog posts.

Here is the first verse of a poem called "SHEER JOY".
written by Ralph Spaulding Cushman

Oh the sheer joy of it!
Living with Thee,
God of the universe,
Lord of a tree,
Maker of mountains,
Lover of me!

How precious! More to come!
Have a joyful day!!

Cup of JOY~~Don't Blink!

2010-11-07T23:09:00.003-05:00

Last Friday we took Maddy up to my sister's house to go to the National Peanut Festival~~a must do every year!! We went on to the hunting camp to do some pre-season work, and enjoy some "Me and my HUNK time".

My hunk loves country music, and when we were driving, I heard a song by Kenny Chesney from 2008 called "Don't Blink".

It's funny sometimes where inspiration comes from, and this song is a great example. It's about life, slowing down, setting priorities, and truly focusing on what is important.

IT REALLY TOUCHED MY HEART!

Here is the video...I hope you'll give a listen...and really think about the lyrics.

Kenny Chesney - Don't Blink (Official Music Video). Watch more top selected videos about: Kenny Chesney

"Lord, make me to know my end,
And what is the measure of my days,
That I may know how frail I am.

Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths,
and my age is nothing before You.

Certainly every man at his best state is but vapor.

Psalm 39:4-5

May you find the JOY in setting your priorities,

and knowing that you are filling your days with

what is important to God!

Don't you love the little birdy down my signature?
Edie did that as a surprise for me,
because she knows how much I love birds!!
She is something else!!
What a blessing!

My Facelift!

2010-11-05T08:08:00.004-04:00

I apologize for being so absent this past week!

Things here are REALLY
busy…just like at your place!!
Sooo…what do ya think about my new look?
Edie over at Rich Gifts and Graphics fashioned it for me,
and I just love it!!

We’re still tweaking it, but aren’t the changes fun?
I won’t be posting this weekend,
but will be HERE ON Monday with
MY BLOGAVERSARY GIVEAWAY!!
ANYONE WHO COMMENTS FROM NOW UNTIL A WEEK FROM SUNDAY
WILL BE ENTERED…

NO RULES…

ENTER UP TO FIVE TIMES IF YOU’D LIKE!! {OK GUESS THAT IS A TINY LITTLE RULE!!}
HOW FUN, RIGHT???

Thank you Edie, for being so patient with me,
and making my blog presence so lovely!

I’ll catch up with you all in a couple of days!!
Have a wonderful weekend!

Blessings and Hugs,
Becky

Ahhh! R & R

2010-10-29T11:16:00.001-04:00

You know me…I can’t stay away too long…

and it has been almost 6 WEEKS

Sooooo…

I made sandwiches, packed them in the cooler with some nice tall bottles of spring water, put some apple slices in a bag, along with some favorite chips, chairs, towels, sunscreen, boogie boards,
and we were OFF!!

TO THE BEACH, THAT IS!!!

YEP…you guessed it…I’m going to bore you with yet
another…beach post!! WOOHOO!!

Here goes!

When we are crossing over the bridge and get our first glimpse of the ocean,

it still nearly takes my breath away! Wish I had a photo of that to show you,

but, alas, these will just have to do!

ENJOY!

I brought along my trusty morning companion! One of those delightful simple pleasures I enjoy from time to time.

The skies were an incredible shade of blue and the water was
a lovely seafoam green, and there is nothing like the sound of the
waves to soothe away every care of the world!!

I loved that this sweet couple were walking hand in hand…awwww…just gives me the warm fuzzies!

I love that Bird ASKED me to take this silly photo of her with Pringles
duck lips!! Too much fun!

We all ooo-ed and ahhh-ed at this wonderful little sports car just cruising down the shore

{Bucket list # 51…drive on the beach in a jazzy sports car convertible!} Not really, but it would be great!

And of course, some wonderful feathered friends…you know
I can’t resist them!

A cute little guy!

And a not so little guy, with lunch in his clutches! He is gorgeous,
with beautiful gold eyes!
We just can’t figure out what he is carrying!! Maddy guessed a jelly fish, but I don’t think they would risk grabbing one of them.

What do you think?

The trusty life guard! We wouldn’t swim without him right there!

Sidenote: If you go to the beach, especially with children, PLEASE always swim by a life guard! One told me that most of the drownings are over 1/2 a mile away from the closest tower! That
just shouldn’t even happen!

A parting shot…I love when the sun dances on the waves!

AND then to top my day off, I got to see this wonderful sight…

It was actually more magnificent than this, but I had to go grab my camera and some of the amazing orange rays shining upward had disappeared! It was incredibly beautiful!

I love how God is always painting new sunsets and sunrises for us
to enjoy! No two are ever the same!

It is so much fun to share my JOY with you!!

Remember:

****MY BLOG WILL HAVE A WHOLE NEW LOOK AND BE
RENAMED THIS NEXT WEEK!

***THE ADDRESS WILL REMAIN http://holidayinthesun-becky.blogspot.com, but the name will be
JUNK TO JOY!!

I WILL ALSO POST MY BLOGAVERSY GIVEAWAY NEXT WEEK!!

Lots of hugs n love to you!!
Becky

CUP OF JOY!! Soul Melody

2010-10-25T10:05:00.001-04:00

One day, the great Felix Mendelssohn wandered into
the cathedral where the magnificent Freiburg organ
could be found.

(updated Freiburg organ)

He asked if he might play a few notes on it.
The custodian, unaware of who was making the request,
refused him permission. After a time, he reluctantly
agreed to let him play. Mendelssohn took his seat,
and the most beautiful music began breaking forth!

The custodian was spellbound!

He came alongside the great musician and asked his name.
Upon learning it, he stood humiliated, self condemned and
saying “And I refused you permission to play upon my organ!”

There is One who comes to us…each and every day…

and desires to take our lives and “play” upon them.
We withhold ourselves from Him, and refuse Him permission, when, if we would yield ourselves to Him, he would
bring from our souls

HEAVENLY MUSIC!

{excerpted from Streams in the Desert}

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. Phillipians 2:13

Our days will be filled with JOY as we let God have his way
with us!

What’s in your cup today? JOY??

If not, maybe the Great Musician needs your permission to come in and play!

May your soul be filled with delight in Him all week long!

Love you bunches!
Becky

The Fabric of My Life

2010-10-21T11:12:00.001-04:00

I am absolutely in love with TEXTURES!!

I know it has to be genetic.

My Mama Rose was an interior decorator and upholsterer, and her taste in fabric was eclectic and a little eccentric at times!

And I have fond memories of strolling through fabric stores with my Mom, and watching as her she lightly touched all of the different fabrics.

There were just so many that were too irresistible!

We couldn’t afford so much of what we saw, but Mom didn’t let that stop her from dreaming.

I can get absolutely lost with all of the textures…

especially the natural fibers.

Oh how they woo me!

I find that I am moving even more deeply into my desire to “simplify” within my home.

It includes the color palette, too, which right now consists of lovely rich earth tones.

I read this quote recently and it really spoke to my heart:

“Texture has replaced my need for color”.

Could you imagine waking up here?

I dream now about changing my decor to mostly creamy whites and beiges with little pops of color here and there. It is just so serene. I will be making those changes a wee little bit at a time!

Here is a little sneak peek at my new…

Christmas Frosting Collection!

I will be adding it to my Junk to Joy Shop over the next few weeks!

It will include lots of wonderful soft whites, with some lovely muted tones here and there…sprinkled with bits of vintage inspiration, and rustic, earthy, natural elements!

Can’t wait to share it with you!

Hope you have a delightful day!

Blessings and hugs,
Becky

Junkin’ It!

2010-10-20T10:54:00.001-04:00

Please stay with me…this is a longer post than normal, but is IMPORTANT!

Have you heard??

Junk is all the rage right now!!

There is…

Junk Mail

Junk cars

Ahem…Junk Drawers (not mine…mine is actually fairly clean right now!)

People who want your junk!

Junk Food

My Personal Fave…Junk Bonanza…I so wanna go one year!!!

And even a JUNK boat (it really is made of junk!)

And JUNK TO JOY SHOP! OK, Hold that “JUNK” for a couple of minutes…

Come with me while I back track for a moment, will you?

Back in the late summer of 2008, I was in the process of creating some greeting cards and hit a creative block. I had this one paper I SO wanted to use and just couldn’t come up with any possible designs. So…I turned to the computer and googled images of “handmade cards”.

Much to my surprise…I found a card made with that exact paper!!!

I clicked the link and it took me to a most delightful place:
kellishouse.blogspot.com

A BLOG!! What a wonderful thing!!! After browsing through Kelli’s blog, There is No Place Like Home, I was simply enchanted
with the whole idea of this new discovery…A BLOG.

Well, a couple of months drifted by, and I had kind of chatted with my older daughters about blogs, but they didn’t seem interested in helping me figure out if I wanted one or not…”Facebook”, they said!Or “can’t help you right now with that Mom”.

Then one day I googled “hospitality” because I was planning a brunch at my home, and wanted some good ideas on making it special.

I found this one site…”Gracious Hospitality” It was yet another simply enchanting BLOG!!!

I thought to myself, “I think I would like to have my own blog”.

I (the computer illiterate one) am going to do this!!
I am going to create a BLOG!!

SO I went for it!

Now…what should I name it? What should it be about??

What do I love and want to share? Nature, crafting, the joy of my faith, sunshine, my lovely beaches…

I’ll name it Holiday in the Sun! That’s what life here in Florida feels like to me! A holiday in the sun!

And so it was.

Back to the present…

I live a life of faith. I love my God. I seek to serve Him with my life. And I love how He is taking all of the JUNK in me, and making it into His likeness. I want my blog and shop name to reflect that!

When I began to consider opening an Etsy shop, I was going to name my blog and my shop the same name, one that not only reflects my faith, but my love for old things that most would give or throw away.

I was going to make the blog changes first and then open my shop.

But God had other plans. JUNK TO JOY SHOP opened on Sept 4th.

All of that is to say that I am finally getting around to changing the name of my blog to Junk To Joy…

I still love Holiday in the Sun, and my blog will pretty much stay the same, with a few added features, but the name will soon be changed to JUNK TO JOY!

{I am keeping the old address for now, but my have to change that when my photos get overloaded!}

SO, if you click on your link to my blog over the next week or two, and my new blog look and name pop up on your screen…

do NOT adjust your monitor!

It’s still me! Just with a name that fits this wonderful place God has brought me to, and what He has given my hands to do for now.

STAY TUNED!

MY TWO YEAR BLOGAVERSARY IS ON NOVEMBER 4TH

AND THERE WILL BE A COUPLE OF FUN GIVEAWAYS TO HONOR THE OCCASION!!

Thank you so much for being a part of my blog journey!
What a wonderful and wild ride!!

Blessings and hugs,

Becky

Cup of Joy~~That's Life

2010-10-18T10:02:00.010-04:00

LIFE.

Life has been a bit challenging for my family lately.

I won't burden your hearts with the details, but we have been dealing with some stuff that really makes our

hearts ache.

None of us escape this life without heartaches. Jesus said that we WILL have tribulation in this world.

He was so right, wasn't He?

I wish I could say in honesty that my first response to pain is to talk to Him about it.  Usually though, I cry, have a little bit of a "Woe is me" time, and then...turn to Jesus.

Thankfully, He understands, and is ALWAYS there, probably thinking,

"I wish she would just come to Me first!"

In my defense {and by His grace}...I do get to Him much more quickly than ever before! {smile}

One of the first Christian songs that I really came to love was the one the Lord put on my heart this morning in the midst of my tears.  It has this really soothing effect on me, and just draws me right into prayer, His Word, and His tender loving mercies.

Psalm 42:1

As the hart {deer} panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

Here are the lyrics to the song...

As the deer pants for the water

So my soul longs after You
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship You

You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship You

I want You more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy-giver
And the apple of my eye

You're my Friend and You are my Brother
Even though You are a King
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything

Isn't that so beautiful?

I hope it makes your heart glad to know that this incredible God...the same one that created and sustains LIFE as we know it,

LOVES YOU WITH A PERFECT LOVE,

AND He longs to hear all about everything you're dealing with...the good, the bad and the ugly!!

We can have great joy in the midst of pain!

Could it get any better than that??!!

I thank the Lord for turning my tears into JOY this morning!!

AND

Thank you for sharing a cup with me this morning!

May your week be full of JOY in Him!

Love ya bunches,

Becky

Incredible Edible Cell??

2010-10-06T00:20:00.001-04:00

Madison is studying Botany this year along with some other homeschoolers and it is quite a fascinating subject!

I have learned things I didn’t know/remember!

It is a little demanding and in depth, and she had a
project she had to complete for the first grading period.

This project was F-U-N! She had to make an
”Edible Plant Cell” that everyone could enjoy
eating once it was graded!

She chose to make hers out of cake…carrot cake that is,
in keeping with the Botany theme, and all other manner
of goodies to represent the different organelles that
make up each cell.

Here it is in all of it’s glory!

She used sour worms, fruit roll ups, icing, sour straws, chunky colored sugar, a chocolate star, and a chocolate disc with sprinkles on it.

I thought she did a great job! And she got an “A”!!

We all learn so much better when a little fun is involved, don’t we?

Let’s see…did you remember that plant cells aren’t round like animal cells? If you did…go to the head of the class!! :)

***********************

Hope to visit you all in the next couple of days! I’m trying to balance everything out with my new responsibilities, and it is a bit of a challenge!!

Thank you for understanding!

Would you please pray that I work out a schedule that helps me maximize the hours (and minutes) in my day?? Thank you so very
much. I am open to hearing any suggestions you might have as well!

Hope your week is full of J-O-Y!!!

Love n hugs,
Becky

Happee Hump Day!

2010-09-29T08:48:00.001-04:00

Hi Gals!

{Graphic used with permission from All You Have To Give}

Just poppin’ in to wish you a happy Wednesday and to

tell you that I am praying for you! I am praying for all that

concerns your heart, and that God will make His face to shine upon

you today and throughout your week!

Did you know that YOU are the crown of His creation and what He thinks about all day long???

How totally wonderful is that???

{BIG smile}

Joy and Love to you!
Becky

Monday Morning Cup of JOY!

2010-09-27T12:08:00.001-04:00

As most of you know, I adore being outside and observing the
wondrous creation of God in all of it’s glory.

Over the weekend, I headed out for just such a time.

I am NEVER disappointed!

Before I get to the photos, have you ever thought…

I mean REALLY thought, about the incredibly creative

mind of God???

Trust me, if God hasn’t completely blown you away

with just the minute to minute function of your own body,

you haven’t given it enough thought!

HIS CREATIVITY IS TRULY UNFATHOMABLE!!

AND TO THINK THAT ALL HE CREATED ON THIS

EARTH, HE CREATED FOR US TO ENJOY!!

PERFECT LOVE. JUST FOR YOU AND ME!

{If you don’t know God personally, click HERE to learn how!}

Here we go! I mean, just look at all this beauty!!

Such a pretty, serene setting

Sweet blooms everywhere

A winding walkway for strolling lakeside

An Osprey enjoying a fish for breakfast!

Incredible Ibisses {is that a word?}…wasn’t sure how close
they would let me get, but they obliged this curious onlooker… and are delightful to watch!!

I read that their legs are only orange during mating season; otherwise they are gray! How interesting. The orange is really quite bright!

This was quite the accommodating bunch…they even lined up for me…

AND EACH STRUCK A POSE!! Such fun!!

Aren’t they peculiar looking with those curved bills?
God really made them unique!

They use them to muddle around in the sand with in the
shallow coastal waters for all kinds of scrumptious meals!

A couple of parting shots…

One amazing GOD…

One truly delighted God’s Gal!!

Take some time to look at all God has created for you
to enjoy! You will be in awe of His handiwork, too!

Big sunshiney Florida HUGS!

Have a joyful week!
Becky

Homespun Fall Goodness!

2010-09-25T22:24:00.001-04:00

I had been waiting with great anticipation to walk down to my mailbox…

open it…

and find some more wonderful artwork from…

Michelle Palmer!

I am like a kid in a candy shop {or a grown woman in Godiva!)

when I see what she draws!!

This time I asked for some specific drawings, and per usual…

I was absolutely delighted with them!!
{better than candy, no calories!} :o)

As soon as I opened them I knew I simply must make something

with them right away!!

A sweet little snippet of homespun fall goodness!!

I had just added this lovely light sage burlap to my fabric stash and it
was perfect to pair with these precious pumpkins!

Aren’t these little pumpkins just the cutest??

I will be putting this door/wall hanger
in my Junk to Joy Shop soon.

Be on the look out…I have more of her wonderful artwork
to create with!!

If you would like to inquire about this piece,
just email me at junktojoyshop@yahoo.com!!

May your Sunday be full of JOY and PRAISE!
Love ya bunches!
Becky

Delicious Autumn!!

2010-09-23T10:52:00.001-04:00

Do you know what today is?

I can hardly believe that it’s true.

Today is…

the first day of Autumn!!!

OH, "Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth
seeking the successive autumns."
- George Eliot

What does this season hold for you?

For me it is a sweet change…although the change

down here in Florida takes a little longer.

It means…

~~Cooler evenings

~~Invigorating morning walks

~~Warm, wonderful mugs of homemade soup

~~Weekends at the hunting camp

~~Beginning preparations for the holiday season

~~Decking my halls with rich earthy colors and decor
{pumpkins and acorns of course!}

~~Being especially mindful of our abundant blessings

~~Creating some seasonal items for Junk to Joy Shop

~~delightful harvest aroma hand soaps and candles

~~New precious memories made with family and special friends

Oh I just really LOVE this time of year even though the warm sand
and water of the beach I love isn’t quite as warm!!

There is just something about this season that turns our hearts
towards home and toward each other that truly blesses me.

May God be glorified in your heart and home through this
season of thanks-giving!

What is Autumn to you?

Love ya bunches!
Becky

Tweet Surprise!

2010-09-21T18:12:00.001-04:00

Since I opened Junk to Joy for business, I have had the extreme
pleasure and encouragement of having several of my items featured in what Etsy calls “treasuries”.

Other sellers choose a theme and select items from different Etsy shops that they like and feature them in their treasury.

Today these new little birdy tags got featured, and are available for
purchase:

To view this “TWEET” treasury click here

Sophisticated Lady is the one who featured my item!
She makes beautiful jewelry! Here is one of my faves that she designed:

The perfect colors for fall, huh? Hope you’ll pay her shop a visit!

Here are some other items I added today…

Hope your week is off to a great start!

Things here are hoppin for sure!!

Would you please join me in prayer for the Mom of a special blog friend? She has experienced a health setback, and needs our prayers! Thank you so much!

May God richly bless you and all you put your hearts and hands to in His Name!!

Love ya!!
Becky

Cup of JOY!

2010-09-20T09:27:00.001-04:00

Several years back I discovered a delightful Christian author and artist by the name of Karla Dornacher. Her heart overflows with love for the Lord as do her books and artwork.

This book is just a joyful blessing to my heart and encourages us
to GIVE THANKS IN ALL THINGS! Why? Because it is what
God says to do!!

God also says that we are to Him the “Aroma of Christ”!
(2 Cor. 2:15)

Can you even begin to wrap your brain around that?

Me, Becky, with all of my issues and my sometimes stinkin’ thinkin’,
all of my mistakes, and sins…I smell like Christ to God? WOW.

“The earth is full of smells, and so are the heavenly realms.
God apparently loves a good aroma as much as we do.
The Bible tells is in Ephesians 5:2 that the sacrifice of Christ
for our sins is like sweet perfume to God…the fragrance of
pure love.”
(excerpt from Karla’s writings)

So how is it that we smell so wonderful to God…even as the “fragrance of pure love”?

Karla says “As we give ourselves generously to love others the way Jesus loves us, we also become a sweet-smelling fragrance to God”!

Do you have someone in your life that needs your forgiveness?
Do you have someone in your life who needs some encouragement?
Do you have someone in your life that needs to know someone cares?
Do you have someone in your life that needs a gift of food?
Do you have someone in your life that needs to know you love them?

It may even be someone in your own home or in your family!

Will you join me and take action with your “someone”?

Let’s be the lovely fragrance of pure love to all those around us, and just delight in imagining God’s nostrils
filling with that wonderful aroma, making Him smile,
and touching people’s lives with His love.

I’ve enjoyed sharing a cup with you this morning!!
Have a glorious week!

NOW GO OUT AND BE A NUISANCE TO THE DEVIL!!
{SMILE}

Love you!
Becky

Sailing Takes Me Away

2010-09-14T09:30:00.001-04:00

Our lives are but a series of moments.

Have any you would love to relive?

I sure do!

You know, something that was so just basically good,

and makes you smile without even realizing you’re

smiling?

Sailing as a child is one of mine.

I saw this first photo this morning and just got
whisked away by it…

…whisked back to the wonderful tropical balmy
weekends we enjoyed cruising around Miami’s
Biscayne Bay as a family.

My Dad’s interest in sailing began with this model-
a 14 ft. Scorpion …

We would take our boat and put in at Matheson
Hammock Park. Since there were six of us kids, we’d
take turns swimming and sailing, and Mom would
have a nice lunch waiting for us. These little boats
are great fun. Wish I had some pics of those adventures!

{Sidenote: Believe me when I say that we didn’t have much money. My Mom and Dad were masters at stretching every dollar,
and that is why they were able to get these boats. They never
wasted money or food, and only bought us what we needed.
We lived in a 1200 sq ft. , 3 bedroom home with my 4 brothers
in one room, and me and my sis in another.}

Back to my story…

Eventually, the sailing bug really bit Dad.
He wanted a bigger boat, so we graduated to this
model; a 25 ft. Coronado.

As you can see, this boat has a cabin…one that was big enough
for us all to sleep in! And that we did.

Spending the night out on the bay was wonderful! Can’t you
just imagine it? My sis and I would lay on the bow and get a tan. I wasn’t very interested in learning the how-to’s of it all, so I just enjoyed! Sis and the boys all learned. Kinda wish I had, too!

And let me tell you… FOOD has never tasted better
than it did out on the bay-except maybe when me and Maddy go
camping with my sis and her hubby!!

After a while, Dad wanted to start participating in races. He had done some crewing for a friend, and got hooked. So he needed a racing boat…

And he got one. This is like the last model boat he owned.
A Bristol racing boat. He did some racing, but most
of his sailing was still for pleasure once the kids started to grow
up and move.

I can almost smell the interior of the cabin, feel the salt spray on my face, taste my Mom’s yummy egg salad sandwiches, giggle at the silly jokes my brothers would tell, see my Father’s sense of pride and joy as he commanded the helm,

and get lost…

…in those moments.

fun memories…

Good times with family. Does it get any better?

Thanks for daydreamin’ with me!
Becky

Ohhhh CUPCAKE!!

2010-09-12T22:25:00.001-04:00

I want to thank all of you sweet friends who promoted my new shop! What a HUGE blessing!! And for all of you who have prayed for it as well!! And then to each of you who have made a purchase! Thank You, Lord for each and every one!!

Bet you are wondering why the title to this post is about a CUPCAKE??!!

Well, that is my nickname for an incredibly sweet bloggy friend who is loved and adored by hundreds of people in blogland…and who also is…

THE WINNER OF THE PUMPKIN QUARTET!!

Yes Spencer, you are the winner…courtesy of the random number generator…

I closed my eyes and hit the key, and there was your number!!! The suspense was killing me so I peeked through my fingers!! REALLY!!!

I hope you all will go meet Spencer at Bellamere Cottage She is so sweet and thoughtful, and VERY talented!! You’ll find a wonderful new friend!! Big Hugs, Spence!! I will email you with details!!

Thank you again for all of your love and support!

I am so blessed to know each of you!!
Have a DANDY week, and know how much I appreciate YOU!!

Sunshine and hugs,

Becky

The Beach and BIG Waves!

2010-09-08T01:40:00.001-04:00

A BIG thank you to all of you who promoted my giveaway and shop!

Nothing like a little help from your friends! :o)

Having a shop has been a long time dream of mine, and I can hardly believe it has come true!

Please check in often as I will be adding new items very regularly!

*************

Last week, me and Maddy headed out for a brief trip to the beach! Yes,I said brief. We had to get back and do school, but we wanted to see the big waves that Hurricane Earl was creating for us!

They weren’t quite as big as I had hoped for, but they were still 8-10 feet!

The pics don’t really show you their size, but here they are:

You knew I had to get a bird in there, right? {smile}

Uh oh…this isn’t a big wave and oops…another little birdy!! I just can’t resist snapping these little cuties!!

I think this man thought I was taking his pic!! How funny!

You can see a good size wave along the back…oops and a precious little birdy!

The pier in the distance. This is right by the boardwalk and the main beach
entrance for cars. The gray pics were the ones taken almost facing the sun.
It was really a gorgeous morning! And hardly anyone there!

The waves were making a rather loud…and might I say wonderful sound!
It was soooo hard to leave! But we will go back on Thursday and STAY this time!

I can’t wait!!!! I am just itching to have sand between my toes
and salt spray on my face!

Oooohhh…LIFE IS GOOD!

Hope you’re all having a great week!!
Love Ya Lots!
Becky

Scroll down to enter my promotional giveaway!
I choose the winner Sunday!!

JuNk to JoY Promo!

2010-09-05T14:06:00.001-04:00

Junk to Joy is now open for business!!
I am still adding items, and will be adding new items regularly!

A BIG thank you to my first two buyers! You know who you are! You are sweet encouragement to my heart!

HERE IS MY FIRST SHOP PROMO!!

You can enter to win a set of 4 fabric pumpkins in your
choice of traditional or neutral color schemes.

These two are listed in my shop right now.

Here are the rules:

1.) Blog about the opening of JUNK to JOY SHOP and this promo.
2.) Include a link back to my blog
Blog link: http://holidayinthesun-becky.blogspot.com/2010/09/junk-to-joy-fun.html
3.) Leave this post as the top post on your blog for a full 24 hours!
4.) For a second chance to win, post this button in your sidebar with the link above.

5.) For a third chance to win, visit my shop and leave a comment telling me your favorite item!

This Promo will run through next Sunday at 6:00 p.m.

I will announce the winner that evening!

Thank you for helping me promote my new business!!

I will be back to regular blogging in a few days!!
Shop talk will only be 1-2x a week!

HUGS to you all!!

Becky

JUNK 2 JOY !

2010-09-04T18:54:00.001-04:00

Hi Sweeties!

I am jumpin’ for joy that my shop is almost up and running!

It is, however, taking far longer than I anticipated to get each item listed. Measure this, tag that…all you other shop owners know what I mean…figure shipping, etc…

When I have 20-25 items listed, (sometime later this evening) I will put the Etsy gadget
on my blog sidebar, and you can go have a look! If you are really anxious you can try to google my shop, but I’m not sure if it will come up yet!

My dear friend, Jess, surprised me today with these…

this awesome announcement…

And a delightful bottle of Asti Spumante in celebration
of my opening.

She has been my biggest cheerleader in
this dream of mine and has watched it change and change
over the years, and prayed with me to bring it into fruition.

Thanks so much, Jess, for dreaming with me, and believing in me, and always being there to cheer me on!! Love you LOTS!!

Thanks also to all of you!

You are so encouraging and I hope you enjoy looking around my shop once it is complete!!

Big Hugs!
Becky

UPDATE!!

I HAVE TO GO TO SLEEP! I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW LONG THIS LISTING STUFF IS TAKING ME!!

MY EYES ARE CROSSING! LOL!!

I’LL LIST MORE TOMORROW!

lOVE YOU! THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE
FOR THIS WORN OUT NEWBIE!!

SHOP NEWS!!!

2010-09-03T12:00:00.001-04:00

WOW!!!!

We are finally there!!!

You all have been so patient with me!

My heart just overflows with joy at the

thought of you!!! {smiles}

Drum Roll Please……..

JUNK 2 JOY will be OPEN for
business tomorrow!!! WOOHOO!!!

And as a thank you for being so very
wonderful, the first ten people to make a purchase
at JUNK 2 JOY will receive a bonus surprise in their package valued at $5!!

But wait, there’s more!!!

If you blog about the opening of JUNK 2 JOY, after it opens, of course, and provide a link back to my blog, your name will be entered for a drawing to win a prize valued at $30-$40 to be revealed tomorrow! The only thing I ask is that you leave the post as the first post for 24 hours!

Sound like a good deal? I hope so!

Here is another little sneak peek!!

Toile and moiré, and acorns OH MY!!

HOPE YOU’LL BE BACK TOMORROW FOR THE OPENING OF…

JUNK 2 JOY!!!

LOTS OF LAST MINUTE THINGS TO TEND TO, SO I CAN’T BE SPECIFIC ABOUT THE TIME!!

Have a glorious holiday weekend!

Hubby has today off so I will take a wee little break
to be taken to lunch!! Then right back to work!

Love ya bunches!
Becky

Oh My My!

2010-08-23T10:08:00.001-04:00

This last weekend rushed right by me!!
My head is just a spinning!!

Was yours good?

Mine was, but I was just a busy little Becky bee!!

I am getting set for the big day…

My Etsy shop grand opening!!
Woohoo!

Be on the lookout for the countdown
to this most momentous day!! {the
good Lord knows how very long I have
waited for this!!}

And of course there will be a giveaway or two
or maybe even three…who knows???

You won’t want to miss the fun, that’s for sure!

I am loading it chockfull of all kinds of fall
wonderfulness and other kinds of goodies!!

A couple more little sneak peeks for you!!!

The weekend was also a bit dreary…

lots and lots of rain…my little palm tree was even drooping!

So I took a wee break from shop stuff
to make my family some lovin from the oven!!
Tollhouse cookies of course!!

They were pleasantly surprised…hubby woke up from a snooze
to the wonderful fresh-baked cookie aroma that filled the air!

That was Saturday…there are 2 cookies left. Exactly why I don’t make them too often!! HA!!!

SO sorry I didn’t get around to visit you gals!! You know
I would be if it wasn’t for the flurry of craftin’ that’s happening
to get this shop open!!

Thanks for hangin’ in with me anyway! As I have
always said, “You are the best!!”

Have a joyful week!!
The countdown begins in a few days!!

Thank you so very much for helping raise my spirits the other day. You are each so precious!

Love and big hugs,
Becky

I Needed This

2010-08-20T09:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I was feeling kind of sad. I was missing my Mom, my daughter Sam, my grandy Emily, and just the way some things
used to be.

Do you ever feel like that?

I don’t very often, but when I do, I get a bit weepy,
want to put on my slouchy clothes, have a
nice hot cup of coffee, and just recede into my surroundings.

It was such a pretty late afternoon that I do what I often do…
I went for a drive.

There is nothing like chatting it out with Jesus
while taking in the beauty He created!

In the last week I have seen two spectacular cloud formations that
looked as if they were gateways to heaven. They really did! One was yesterday on my drive but I couldn’t snap a photo because of
traffic and no place to pull over.

Oh how I wish you could have seen them! They were truly amazing.

A little bit later on my way home I saw this…

And WAS able to snap and I just love how it came out! I couldn’t believe that I captured it! I took it quickly through the car window!!

God knows how much delight I take in His creation, and I just
Oooo and Ahhhh constantly over it.

I felt like He was showing me a glimpse of His glory when I saw this,
And felt His tender loving care for me and my aching heart.

Great God. Simple pleasures. Nothing better.
Hope your weekend is full of them!

I’ll be visiting with you over the weekend!
Love you lots!!
Becky

Not So Innocent!

2010-08-17T09:05:00.001-04:00

Remember meeting this handsome little guy a
couple of days ago?

And my “one little acorn”?

Well, we left Mr. Charley out when we ran some errands, and when
we returned, my one little acorn had disappeared, and is still
missing!!! Hmmm…..

Maybe he isn’t so innocent after all!

He looks like he was already thinking about his little dirty deed, doesn’t he? “Who me?”

Fortunately, even though my prototype is MIA, look what I found
in my mailbox yesterday!!!

MORE LITTLE ACORNS!!!

Oh can you hear my heart singing???

I ordered these from a wonderfully creative Christian artist named Michelle Palmer. She currently has had some of her art made into a line of retail calendars, note cards, etc. and is just the loveliest person to do business with.

These little acorns are drawn on tiny discs of wood that are about the size of a nickel! Each one is a precious work of art. It was hard to choose which ones to buy…I loved them all!

Here are the others…the detail is amazing!

Michelle always ships your purchase quickly, and in her kindness she
also includes an extra little surprise in your package!!

How fun is that?

Here’s my surprise this time

Two lovely aged tags! And these are scented, too! Love them, Michelle!

Michelle is continually adding new artwork to her Etsy shop, and it is always so lovely, affordable, and so very unique.

I’m not sure yet what I will do with these new little gems of mine,
but they sure make me smile!

I hope you’ll pop over and meet Michelle. Be sure to check out her shop too! I know you’ll love seeing what she creates!

Have a blessed day! Time for school with Maddy!

Love ya!!
Becky

Monday Morning Cup of JOY!

2010-08-16T10:35:00.001-04:00

I used to start Monday mornings here on my blog with
“Joy For Our Journey”.

Well, I am going to begin it again but have renamed it
”Cup of Joy”.

I start most mornings off with a cup of “Joe” and the
Word of God, so the new name just fits! God wants to
fill our cups with joy today!

I read this morning in Psalm 37.
Verse 8 popped off the page.

Particularly this part of it:

Do not fret—it only causes harm.

Hmmm….a command to quit fretting?

Could that mean I am sinning when I fret or worry?
Well it certainly doesn’t glorify God, or actually
accomplish anything positive…ever!

FRET: to eat or to gnaw into; to cause to suffer emotional strain; to vex, to wear, corrode, chafe or fray.

Not too appealing, huh?
Are you allowing anything to VEX you?

I have to be honest…I have been…but today I gave it over.

When I saw the dandelion photo, I thought of all
of my cares just floating on the breeze…up and away
to the Lover of my soul; each care received by Him
and my burden lifted. What bliss…what joy!

~~~~~

I love this little chorus:

I cast all of my cares upon You.

I lay all of my burdens down at your feet.

And anytime, I don’t know wha-at to do,

I will cast all of my cares upon YOU.

~~~~~

Don’t be vexed…cast all of your cares upon Him!
He will delight in lightening your load!

May your day be filled with loveliness and
your cup filled to the brim with JOY!!!

Big Hugs,
Becky

One Little Acorn

2010-08-14T22:07:00.001-04:00

Birds, pears, pumpkins, owls and acorns…I can hardly resist them!!

Not quite sure what the appeal is for me…but I LOVE them!

I have an oak tree in my yard, but the acorns are so very small.

So I decided to try and make some from fabric to scatter
about the house and possibly put in my shop.

What do you think of my first acorn? A bit prim, but
fun I think!

I am going to make them from wool and various other fabrics.
This one was a trial, and I didn’t make an effort to keep
my thread from showing. The thread won’t show if I make any more.

Let me know what you think!!

Gotta run and get back to craftin’!

Love and big hugs to you!
Becky

Clean and Pretty Place to Create

2010-08-12T15:37:00.001-04:00

When 24 yo daughter moved back in a few months ago,
all hopes for a ROOM to create in were kissed goodbye.
It’s all good though!!

I have a lovely bay window in my bedroom, perfect
for a creative space!

I finally got all of my STUFF organized…
Can you believe it??

It started off —well, pretty badly!

All the stuff neatly stored behind the bench now…
well…wasn’t so neatly stored!
I had saw horses under the bench top! UGH!
Then I remembered having these two little
cubby thingies and they were perfect to
replace the saw horses!! But still not very
pretty to look at!

Then I remembered having fabric I bought
to make valances and pillows with at the old house.
Perfect for beautifying my creation station!!

Still in love with the fabric!

Now…organized and pretty, I can

without being in the middle of chaos!! WOOHOO!!

Close friend and blogger, Jess, at Jewels for the Journey
gave me this adorable sign, and arranged for me to
get the work surface from her Mom’s hubby a couple of
years ago. It was just awaiting it’s home!

And here is what it looks like now!

The big ugly white apparatus is my work light. YES…I REALLY need it!

And here is my trusty bench buddy! Those pens and bone folder are sticking
out because he has been trying to take them out!

Charley is his name and he came back home with Mallory!!

Is he precious or what???

Most of what decorates my bench are special things from friends here
and bloggy friends.

I feel like I get hugs from them all each time I
sit down to create!!

You knew there would have to be some birds around, right?

This pretty plate is from Liesa at Life By George. She is such a sweetie and
a huge blessing to me!

I got this birdy at The Cabbage Rose, a fave place of mine located
in the Maggie Valley in North Carolina! I couldn’t resist him!! He’s
so unique!

A wonderful hanging heart from my buddy Nor at Life Blessings…she’s
a treasure of my heart!!

My beautiful handmade heart from Spencer over at Bellamere Cottage!
She is one talented gal and a LOVELY person!

A few other delightful goodies….

A pretty handmade scripture tag bought from dear Tami at A Girl’s Gotta Nest,
A pound cake candle from my buddy Nellie at Nellie’s Cozy Place…it’s almost gone…I love this scent, Nellie!
And a petite birdy pin cushion from Deborah at Deb’s Vintage Soul! Deborah
gave one of these to each person at Claudie’s party. Soooo cute!

Everyone at Claudie’s party also got a pedestal plate made just for them by
no other than my sweet friend Jeanne at Backyard Neighbor. It looks so great with some more goodies on it from Jess.

With all of the creating I am doing for my shop, I need to
be able to stay inspired, and this great new space to create in
makes it possible!!

When will the shop open? SOON!! As soon as I know…you will know, too!

But…

Here’s…

A…

Little…

Sneak…

Peek…

Stay tuned…there will be more sneak peeks to come!!

Thanks for hanging in there with me through this crazy year!!!
You all are the bestest!!
Love ya!!
Becky

Time to GO!

2010-08-08T11:17:00.001-04:00

I read this quote this morning
and it really resonated with me.

Many times when we claim we are
waiting on God, He is waiting on us.

Does this speak to you at all?

Sometimes when God has said, “Go”, we
continue to sit, to bide our time.

Why do we wait when God says go?

Sometimes we simply over analyze things.
Sometimes our fears get the best of us.

The way may seem too narrow;
the odds too great to imagine taking
the risk.

And sometimes, we just can’t trust God
enough to lead where we can’t see.

Many years ago I was told that if we
observe nature, we will see that almost
nothing in nature sits still.

By God’s design, the very life of the
world He created for us to enjoy, is
constantly in motion.

Most things that sit still get stagnant,
erode, or are in the process of dying,
and end up withered and barren.

What if we always choose to stay where we “feel” safe?

All through the Bible God speaks to His people
telling them to GO! Be on the move.

He has given us His power through the Holy Spirit
that lives in those who confess Christ Jesus.

He calls us to be conquerors.
Why do we settle for just barely skimming by?

Has He said “GO” to you about something?

He has to me, and I am GOING!! (after not listening
to Him for a little while) Thank You for forgiving
me, Lord!!

If He has said go to you, stop waiting
for more direction from Him…

Simply GO! Get on the move ! Take
those first steps in the direction
He is leading and He will
guide you all the rest of the way!!

This life He has given us is an amazing adventure!

I don’t want to miss out on His best for me,
not even for a moment!!

Have a joyful Sunday!
Love ya!
Becky

WHAT Am I Thinking????

2010-08-06T09:42:00.001-04:00

You know me…you know that I LOVE the summer and the beach and even the hot temperatures, so I ask…

What on earth am I thinking?

I am thinking that…

There are only 48 days til

the first day of FALL!!!

What??? Where did that come from?

Did you say that? I know I couldn’t have!

I don’t know, but since I am being tortured by this question, I thought it only fitting that I might torture some of you as well! Isn’t that what friends are for?

Hope you can stand it!! Let’s hold hands and jump in together, ok?

1…2…3…

Here goes!!

{photos sources Country Living, Forest Wander, Univ of CO}

Oh the YUMMY goodness of it all!!

I can just feel it in the air this year. I don’t know why, but I am already
noticing the changes in the sun’s position. Maybe it is just my hope that hurricane season will come and go quickly without any consequence!

I don’t know…

Anyway…LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN!!

Oh and HAPPEE FRIDAY ya’ll!!

Toasty Hugs,
Becky

Wishes and Misses

2010-08-02T23:23:00.001-04:00

I didn’t author this, but this is my wish {prayer}for you…

A Day Just for You

A day of blessings filled to the brim,

a day of good things that come from Him.

A day of beauty, a day of grace...

a day of sunshine touching your face.

A day that keeps you in peace and rest,

a day that brings you all of God's best.

~~~~~~~~~

I have been feeling so very blessed, and
so thankful for the amazing love of God.

I have to tell you, though, that part of my
heart is 12 hours away and I have been really
missing these two more than I can say.

This is my Sam and her daughter Emily.
Things are moving along in their new location. I told
her I have been praying for God’s will
NOT for Becky’s will…as hard as that is sometimes.

My heart longs to have them back here, three minutes
away so we can enjoy beachin’ it together again, and
just hanging out.

Sam told me the other day that Emily was reminiscing
about being at the beach…how cute is that?

We talk often and that’s a joy for sure!

~~~~~~~~~

I have been hard at work on my upcoming Etsy store
and so much more. I am so excited and so ready
for my grand opening!! I’ll keep you posted!!!

Have I told you lately how precious each of you
are to me? You sure know how to make my day!

Your friendships are simply the BEST gifts!

Lots of Love and Hugs!
Becky

Good Work!

2010-07-30T10:20:00.001-04:00

I am a stay at home Mom and have been for…well…
forever, it seems!
There truly is nothing I’d rather be doing
than tending to the needs of my
family and our home. {and making pretty things!}

God has enabled me to stay at home, and blessed the
commitment we made before we got married to keep me
at home, taking care of everything here.

Of course, if He required it, I would do otherwise,
but to my delight, He has not.

Some may view my role as insignificant and obscure, but I am
only concerned about what God has to say about it!

The family is one of two institutions He created;
the other being the church.
So the way I see it, what I do is pretty important to Him!

It is my desire that my heart and my days be filled
with what matters most to Him, so that He can say of me
what he said about the woman who spilled out her expensive
perfume and anointed His head with it…

That I have done a good work for Him.

I honestly wouldn’t trade my life for anyone else's.
I have been blessed beyond what I could have ever imagined!
And there is nothing like knowing that I am
exactly where He wants me to be!!

May your day be filled with little JOYS!
Love ya!
Becky

Flyin’ High!

2010-07-28T10:02:00.001-04:00

Maddy got to take her first flight last Thursday!

WOOHOO!!

Her being excited about her boarding pass!

I could not believe this when I saw it! This guy is in the Orlando airport
right next to the security check. I walked all around this box certain this was a guy faking being asleep. He even has veins in his legs! But the sign under the box says it is a bronze sculpture!! Can you believe it? They got even the last little detail down; EXCEPT BREATHING! He is appropriately named
“The Traveler”.

We had a short but wonderful flight…much better than the 6 1/2 hour drive!

Maddy on board! We sweated getting a window seat, but were able to snag one!

Taking it all in!

Friday we set off for the Econfina Creek and Springs! There are several springs along the creek, and each one is beautiful and different!

Andy and Maddy were in the kayak and me and my sis were in the canoe.
We worked up a sweat, but the springs are 72 degrees year round so cooling
off was not a problem!

Andy’s truck loaded up! I LOVE old trucks, and he keeps his so nice!
The water is really this color closer to the springs! The creek is a bit brackish but is still clear. I’m not positive, but I think it is the mineral content of this water that makes the colors so pretty. My skin is so soft after swimming in it.

This is me with a mask and snorkle watching the water flow from one of the springs. The little cloudy funnel is just sand and cracked shell being moved through the water by the spring.

The lower left photo is the larger spring that was coming out of several different rocky areas. Very lovely and tropical!

Andy up above on a wooden walkway snapping photos; lovely cascading fern;
little fishies that nibble your ankles…some of the larger ones it is more than a nibble! And me and my fab sis!! I guess I’m looking at Maddy! She was snapping at the same time!

We had such a nice stay! We also got in some thrifting, Hob-Lob, Michael’s, Chili’s, a great Asian Buffet, and some fun time with this little cutie and his Mom, my niece, Tammy.

This is their second son and fourth child! What a sweetie!!

It’s great to get away and especially to have time with my sis!
We are doing something we have never done this fall…we’re planning a sister
getaway, and I think our destination is Destin, FL!!! YAY!!! Can’t wait!

It’s also good to be home, and back with you, my sweet friends!
I will be visiting you over the next couple of days! {smile}

Hope your week is off to a great start!

Spread some JOY, OK??

HUGS,
Becky

YESSSSSSS!

2010-07-21T09:37:00.001-04:00

My doctor appt. went great! No serious problem suspected!! WOOHOO!!
Thank You Lord!! And thanks to all of you who prayed for me! What a blessing!

Soon me and Maddy will be getting on one of these…

Though she would love it to be one of these…{smile}

To go HERE…

And do some of this…
{amongst other fun things!}

With these very special people…

The best sis in the whole wide world, and her awesome hubby!!

I feel so very blessed!!

You know…this is a good life!

We need to LIVE IT! And give thanks in all things, and know how blessed we are!

We may not feel too blessed sometimes, but oh we so are!!

This is Maddy’s first plane flight!! She is so excited! What joy to experience it with her!

Love and hugs to you all! I’ll be back here blogging next week!

I’m praising God for each of you!

{BIG smile}

Becky

Got Time?

2010-07-18T02:59:00.013-04:00

I was so encouraged by my devotional
from Streams in the Desert today,
that I just have to share with you!!

I'm speaking as a mom now, but this truth applies

to so much in this thing called life!!

Lately I have been evaluating myself as a parent
whose primary goal is to raise God-centered children.

Believe me when I say there are a few areas I have
slacked off in that are critical to achieving this goal.

I have talked to the Lord, asked for forgiveness, and

asked Him if it was too late. Do I still have time?

Will what I do now still have the desired impact?

Well, dear friends, let me tell you He answered me

with a resounding

YES!

I can buy back some of that time!
You know...the time when I was slacking...
Wanna know how??? {I know you do!}

The Lord doesn't look at our days the same way we do!!

With Him, one of our days is the same as 1000 years!!!

So each of our days doing what is right equals

1000 years of doing right!!

Now that's the best investment deal I've ever heard of!!

He will multiply the impact of what
we do in Him regardless of when we begin again!!!
The only requirement is a repentant, whole heart

committed to carrying out His will!!

What a glorious HOPE!!!

What an amazing God!!

It is NEVER to late to begin doing what is right!

The impact of making right choices and

fulfilling our responsibilities before God

will be multiplied beyond our ability to comprehend it!!

Hope that lights a fire under you like it has for me!!

Love ya bunches!
Spread some Son-shine today!!

Becky

Doubt

2010-07-14T11:01:00.005-04:00

Do you ever let a little doubt

swim around in your head?

My faith is very strong and yet I still sometimes

feel that maybe God is overlooking a

particular struggle or trial I am in the midst of.

Fortunately, in my heart I know better than that, but

the doubting doesn't feel good at all.

I am going to see my sister in a little over a
week, and really need to see a Dr. before I go.

My sweet hubby has a Dr. he loves, and wants
me to see him, but he didn't have an open
appointment until after I get back.

AND they said that people rarely cancel appts. with him.

In crept the doubt.

Who do I go to Lord? Do I just wait til I get back?
Will I be ok while I am away, or end up in an

emergency room hours from home?

Please, Lord, I need some wisdom here.

He says He will give wisdom to His children when
they ask for it...so I always ask.

I called this morning to see if they had any

cancellations.

NOPE.

I talked with sweet hubby and he said to call back

and make sure they make the appointments for all
of the offices; maybe I could get in with another office
if they don't.

THEY HANDLE ALL THE OFFICES.

Well, ok Lord. I'll go wherever you want me to go,

or wait, just let me know which it is.

THE PHONE RINGS.

They had the rare thing occur. A cancellation!!

I am seeing hubby's Dr. on Monday!!

~~~~~~~~~~

I love you Lord, and I thank and praise you
for loving me, and showing me so perfectly
that you are always looking out for me!

And I thank you, dear friends, for all of your love and prayers!

Big Toasty Warm Florida Hugs!!
Becky

Meadowbrook Farm~~A Must See!

2010-07-12T12:52:00.004-04:00

Meadowbrook Farm is a picturesque, serene,
delightful place! The great thing is that
the owner, Teresa, is also a

BLOGGER!
WOOHOO!

So... her readers get to make regular trips to

Meadowbrook and see all of the beauty

captured through Teresa's lens.

And she definitely has an eye for beauty!

She granted me permission to share some photos

with you, but I had the HARDEST time just picking

a few!!!

If you love an old farmhouse turned new,

green pastures, country ponds,

majestic mountains, and just enjoying simple

pleasures, you will want to visit regularly, too!

Teresa also takes the most amazing photos of babies!

OK...I'm done talking...

Just scroll and enjoy!

OH...one more thing...do you see a pattern developing here?

I am head-over-heels for vintage everything, love nature,

and living more simply.

Thanks...you can scroll now!!

{smile}

They affectionately call their home "The Junk House"

This is before their amazing renovation.

This is the beautiful after, complete with white picket fence!

Meadowbrook greenhouse

The absolutely stunning view

The bright and cheery dining area

Teresa also shares some great recipes!

Lovely pot of deadheaded blooms

Adorable!

Teresa and her hubby's favorite spot. I can certainly see why!

Had to stick this one in here...I have a thing for pears!!

She has a bunch of gorgeous photos of Savannah!

And of Charleston!!

I saved these little wonders for the final photos...

Aren't these some of the most precious baby photos ever???

Hope you'll go visit (click on name) Meadowbrook Farm!!

You'll be delighted that you did!

Don't visit without saying HI to Teresa, now!!

Everyone greets everyone in the country!

Thank you Teresa! This was a fun post!!

Have a blessed day sweeties!

Becky

Summer Joys

2010-07-11T11:58:00.003-04:00

Well, sweet friends, it seems that somehow my

computer caught a nasty bug, and won't be

restored to health until later in the week!

Sooo...I am on my daughter's Mac and

sharing some things from Country

Living that make my heart sing! Simple joys that

anyone can make and add to their home. They

have tutorials for them all!

ENJOY!

Glass Bottle Vase Grouping

Vintage Hankies Table Runner

This could be done with vintage doilies or

dresser scarfs, too!

Picture Frame Terrarium

I LOVE this and WILL make one...

eventually!

Painted Stripes Tablecloth

So easy peasy!

A lovely wreath made from fresh berries and vines

Sure would love to get my hands on some

fresh berries and do this one!

Hope your week is full of life's little joys!

Blessings,

Becky

Serenity

2010-07-09T10:47:00.000-04:00

Do you run hastily day to day from one thing

to another, maybe even in your ministry to others,

and end your day exhausted, frustrated,

and desperate for some peace and joy?

Over the past several years God has shown me

the importance stealing away from the hustle

and bustle, and setting aside special time to

bask in His Word, and to meditate on His truths.

Time in solitude with Him is to our spirits

what dew is to the flower.

Refreshing and nourishing!

{and makes our cheeks rosy}

{smile}

I believe it is in these times

that we deepen our spiritual roots,

receive God's peace, grow stronger, refocus,

are prepared to impact our world for Him,

and to joyfully meet each new day,

regardless of life's circumstances.

May you take the time to

BE STILL

and drink in

the goodness

of GOD

today!

Love you lots!

Becky

Farmhouse Style!

2010-07-06T12:19:00.000-04:00

I have always considered myself to have a rather
"eclectic" design style. That is until I came upon
FARMHOUSE STYLE!

It encompasses everything I love...
slightly (or not so slightly) worn, weathered wonderfulness,
mixed with incredible textures, and vintage goods
that just ooze with character.

My first look at this design style was on a favorite blog
of mine Raised in Cotton. Carol''s eye for
beauty just stuns me continually, and her home and photos
are like a warm, sweeping breeze on a sunny day.

Here is some of the beauty she surrounds herself with...

Her wintering 1800's Farmhouse

I have used this image as my desktop background, Carol!!
I love these old jars and have gotten a few for myself!

Her amazing kitchen!

Vintage goodies everywhere!!
AND flowers too!

Love her farmhouse table!

~~sigh~~~

colored glass...be still my heart!

Carol's style is so comfy and serene. Don't we all just need
a little more serenity in our lives?

She and her hubby are transforming their 1800's farmhouse,
and I am definitely loving it all!

I am not a chandelier type of gal, but Carol's use of chandys
in her home is soooo lovely...I might be convinced otherwise!

If you love this, you'll find more at her blog!
She truly is sweet and has inspired me in a BIG way!!

Thank you for letting me share your photos, Carol!!
YOU ROCK!!

The bloggy changes I have spoken of previously are still coming,
Lord willing! Believe it or not I have yet another health issue
to deal with, but I still want to follow through and get
my online shop...

YES YOU READ CORRECTLY...
my online shop up and running.
{{I am sooo excited}}

Thank you to all of my prayer partners out there...
I know you will have this all covered for me!
~~smile~~

Have a blessed week, sweet friends!!
Becky

Sunday Greetings!

2010-07-04T09:34:00.000-04:00

May you have a joyful, praise filled Sunday and a wonderful

Fourth of July Celebration!

{{Feel free to use this graphic if you'd like to!}}

Love in Christ,
Becky

Sporting Our Colors!

2010-07-03T09:47:00.001-04:00

Don't we look grand?

{smile}

You have to love a nation that celebrates it's independence every
July 4th, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file
by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with
family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato
salad gets "iffy", and the flies die from happiness.

You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism!

~~Erma Bombeck~~

Have a wonderful Independence Day celebration!!!

And don't forget to pray for those in harm's way on foreign soil.
They are "the brave" that make it so we can be "the free"!!

Joyfully,

Becky

The Gulf Oil Catastrophe

2010-06-30T16:35:00.000-04:00

I read an article today that was asking the question,

"Why on earth are we still calling this an oil spill?"

It summons to mind a manageable situation, something not

quite so significant. Not a DISASTER of
unprecedented proportions.

No! This should indeed be called a
"catastrophe"!!

Over 100,000 barrels of oil a day are gushing into the
pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Sometimes visuals help us to really get it.
This one made me cry.

This diver decided to give us a different perspective than
one from a helicopter, or smallish blobs on the shorelines of
coastal beaches.

HE DOVE INTO IT.
Literally...

He and his mask, needless to say, were immediately coated with oil and

it was difficult to see...very eerie according to him.
He shot the next photo from under the water.

It took him 30 minutes of clean up
before he could go inside the boat.

The oil floats on top of the water and in columns
reaching into the ocean depths.

He said he couldn't get out of there fast enough.

I don't know about you, but this really chokes me up.

This is where all of the oil is headed, and yes the water is
really this gorgeous...I've been there many times!

To truly some of the most beautiful beaches in the world,
and wetlands that are home to hundreds of species of wildlife,
including this little beauty...

and these gentle wonders...

Please keep praying for all the people
whose livelihoods have already

been snatched away by closed beaches,
and for all the wildlife species that normally
thrive in these coastal areas.

May God pour out His mercy and bring an end to this soon!

{photos from USA Today and aturtletale.blogspot.com}

At the Shore...

2010-06-28T09:27:00.000-04:00

A glorious day...

May you see something today that teaches you
to put your trust in the Creator of all things!!

What a masterpiece He created when
He created Y-O-U!

Have a joyful week, dear friends!
Becky

By George...I Got It!!

2010-06-25T08:39:00.000-04:00

Hey Gals!!

I finally got my driver's license yesterday!!

WOOHOO!!!

After two weeks of no driving...
I am back on the road and

absolutely thrilled about it!

The cooler is packed, the umbrella and chairs
are in the trunk, I'm grabbing my beach bag
and heading to here....

to feel and smell the salt air and frolic in the waves!!

{smile}

Hope your day is amazing, and filled with at least a
little bit of your favorite things!!

OH, be a blessing and share your smile with someone today,
OK?

Love you as big as the ocean!
Becky

It Started Off Innocently...

2010-06-24T09:20:00.002-04:00

... I just woke up and did the same thing

I do every weekday morning...

iron my dear hubby's work clothes!

Today, for some reason, I started
sneezing and sneezed 8x in a row. Hard sneezes.

I thought...

Surely I must be...

ALLERGIC TO IRONING!!

Yes! That's it!

Well, not wanting to leave my friends out of this exciting news,

I came to the computer to find a photo of a lady ironing,
to accompany this astounding declaration and post it here.

Never in my wildest imaginings would I have thought
I would discover...

EXTREME IRONING!!
yes, this is real!!

My dear friends, we no longer are constrained to
boredom while ironing...

Fellow ironers, we can travel the world and iron in strange,
unusual and exotic places; banish the hum-drums of daily ironing

FOREVER!!

Don't believe me? Don't Believe that

we can infuse ironing with excitement

and adventure???

Well scroll down, my friends and witness

for yourself...

Now she is my kinda gal!!

Wonder what ol' Bessie is thinkin'!!

Oh My!!

Extreme ironing actually has an official website!

www.extremeironing.com
Click on the gallery link in their sidebar
to see more fun photos!!

Who thinks of this stuff anyway?
I think I'd like to think like them for a
few days...sounds like fun!!

Well, I am off for my idea of extreme ironing!!
You know what I'd do, don't you???

*
*
*
*
*

*
*

Extreme Beach Ironing!!!
Yeahhh!
You guessed right!!

Love you bunches...
Really Do!!
Becky

HAPPEE MONDAY!!

2010-06-21T10:10:00.003-04:00

As you hear me say all the time...

It's another sunny, blue sky, gorgeous day here
in Central Florida!!

{that is until the afternoon thunderstorms begin}

Thank you all for your prayers! I am feeling MUCH better!
{just knowing you're praying for me lifts my spirits!}
{you really are the best, you know?}

{big smile}

A fresh new day...Thank You Lord!!

Our Crepe Myrtle is bustin out with gorgeous blooms!
I love the little buds almost as much as the blooms!

My lovely Sago Palm is back after a bout with Asian Scale!!
My dear friend Nellie told me I could get rid of it by putting coffee grounds

on it and she was right!! YAY!!! Sagos are slow growing, but absolutely

beautiful when they get really mature!!

Don't you love how the leaves on our fig tree cascade down?
They are hiding a sweet, delicious treat! And the freezes have proven
to be a blessing! Our tree has more fruit on it than ever!!

Each one of those little round thingies are figs! It is loaded this year!

Maybe I can actually make some jars of preserves for my darling hubby!!

It's one of his favorite things!!

What is it about dew-kissed plants?
I never get tired of looking at
how the morning dew makes everything sparkle!!

***

Hopefully... today is the day I will walk to the mailbox to find

a certified copy of my MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE!!!
Then I can finally go get my driver's license!!!!
It has been almost 1/2 a month since I've driven!!

CRAZY!!!

Love you bunches!
Asking God to reveal Himself to you
in delightful ways today!!

Becky