~ P r i d e ~ a lovely word; I think this quote is the perfect description, and here’s a little proud MUSICA to go with it.
I have to say, we take inordinate pride in our compost heap, it’s homemade, with love . . . but no matter how high it gets and how varied it is, with the sweet-potato peels, egg shells, coffee grounds, a little wood ash,
and maybe a pumpkin with stars on top, making me feel like mother nature herself with the earth-feeding I’m doing . . . this crazy wild pride I have in compost . . . still . . .
. . . yes, and even after an afternoon of digging in the dirt, planting sixty new bulbs, tulips, daffodils and crocus, under the roses, around the bird bath, thinking of the bowers of spring flowers we’re going to have in April and May, brightening our neighborhood and thrilling, what I know will then be, my winter-worn heart — even that; even coming in all tired and dirty, so proud to cross “Plant Bulbs” off my list . . . still . . .
. . . and in the morning, before the sun comes up, when the house is quiet, just the hum of the furnace, the water is on for tea, I can’t help but count my blessings as I hang a clean dish towel and stand there, letting the warm air travel over my slippers, admiring my kitchen, thinking how much I love its surfaces, how it speaks to me of home and our life here . . . how very proud I am . . .
Even when I’m patting myself on the back and polishing my fingernails on my shirt for getting the ironing done, or the laundry on the line, crossing those things off my list, Saying, Done! Feeling proud.
Maybe I shouldn’t be, but I can’t help but feel proud that my neighbor’s dog Iris, likes me enough to come over on her own and hang out with me. She’s here now! ♥ I love her.
I feel pride when I surprise Joe with a German Pancake for dinner,
. . . after he’s been such a good boy and put the storm windows on this old house . . . battening down the hatches for winter . . .
There’s the deep and abiding pride I feel in watching my two men work,
They are my dream team.
And I can’t begin to tell you the pride I feel when I get a page for our new book done, and think maybe you are going to like it . . . not to mention the TEN new pages I’ve done since I did my last post! I’m about to start page one hundred! So proud. So grateful. ♥ You’re my inspiration. Thank you xoxo
I have many blessings, and reasons to be proud, but the number one, most prideful moment of all comes only every so often . . . and makes me feel just like the little kid looks in this photo at our Memorial Day parade!
Proud. For some reason, nothing, makes me feel quite the same as sticking that little oval sticker on my jacket that says, “I voted.” Putting a ✔ next to “show you care,” on my to-do list. I usually leave that sticker on my jacket for at least a week! All proud of myself! ☆✫✰✩✪☆✰✫✪☆
Proud to make my little contribution. Feel so lucky.
Looking at the history of the world, it’s a miracle that we get to do this. I would like to do my part today by encouraging all of you: Go vote! You’ll love it. Even if you have to 
stand in line! It’s such a blessing that we can. It’s important for the rest of the world to see that we care enough to do it. It’s their world too. ♥ I know I’m probably preaching to the choir, but I just couldn’t keep my mouth shut … woke up this morning, thought, “OH! Voting Day!” Was excited! Had to tell you! And if you can, take someone with you! Let them feel this good pride too! I promise, at the end of the day, you will be standing taller if you do it. No matter which side you’re on in this election, we’re all on the same side when it comes to our country! ♥
Love you girlfriends; we are the world! ♥ xoxo Have a wonderful day!
Good morning Susan! I am proud to be an American and will be voting today after work. Thank you for the great post. We do have a lot to be proud of as Americans and as individuals. Thank you for reminding us all to be grateful for what we have and for what we have been able to accomplish. It does feel wonderful to have the kitchen floor clean with fresh from the dryer rugs. Brushing my Midge kitty and have her all purry and thankful. And making a meal and have your hubby love it and you for making it! Have a wonderful day Girlfriend!
It’s the little things Vicki! Thank you!
Susan,
Wonderful words with a powerful message! I was the first one to cast a vote in my town. Proud? You bet’cha! This Jersey Girl is also feeling very blessed to be an American.
Have a wonderful day in your neighborhood.
Your Friend,
Deborah
Well said, as usual, Susan! We have much to be proud about living in America! xoxo
P.S. Page 100 of our book! Yay!!!!
Oh, you have given me a much needed lift today:) You are soooo good at that! Ha, how does Jack like Iris? You are so welcoming even to the neighbors dog – love that about you. Yes, we will be going to vote as soon as my husband gets home from the Dr. Cramming for last minute “stuff” as our Boutique Sale is tomorrow…and I’m in charge (shutter) of it. Have a super dayXXXOOO’s
Jack and Iris do well together … he was wary the first time he met her, but when he noticed that Iris could care less about his existence, he relaxed!
All the best as you write your book.
Looking forward to it.
Heading out to vote in Alabama! God bless the USA … <3
So nice to hear from you! It’s been too long! Loved all of todays pictures! Wish I were in that cozy kitchen sharing a cup of tea with you! And maybe a delicious treat!! I plan on voting late this afternoon! I watch my granddaughter on Mon. & Tues., so I have to wait until she leaves! You’re right – we are blessed to be able to go out and vote! Sounds like your book is coming along nicely! Have a great day in your cozy house!
Thank you, Susan, for the Ray Charles music! I love it! I’ve got my sticker on my jacket too! Went this morning about 5:30 a.m. before the doors opened and there were already about 150 people waiting in line!!! We are blessed to be able to vote!
Good for you Mary! Have a wonderful day!
Thank you for such an inspiring post on this all-important day of voting in our country. I voted early just in case there was some unforseen obstacle lurking out there that could interfere with getting to the polls today. It was really fun voting early! Hundreds of others were doing the same thing. Such a great country we live that people make the time to get out and vote! YAY!! No matter who the president is tomorrow or 100 years from now, life will go on it ebbing and flowing way.
Well said, and no matter who it is, we will STILL be so blessed for having the system, as imperfect as it is, that we do, because with it, there is always hope for the human race.
Good morning Susan… and proud you should be!… so many accomplishments!… love your kitchen… it is so my style as well… and mine is filled with many of your cookbooks which I love… your two men, your dream team, are just precious!… and I really love sweet Iris and that she gets to relax on your sofa!… I welcome all animals to my home and am happy to see you do too!… animals are sooo smart… Iris knows how kind and loving you are and such a cozy warm home to visit with you… your posts always touch my heart as they are down to earth and real… I too am so proud to be an American!… it is coming up on five years in a couple of days since my daddy passed away (I miss him terribly!)… he was a Colonel in the US Army and WWII vet… and on his headstone he wanted the words “loving husband, father, grandfather and Patriot”… those words are there… and I never take the love of country he instilled in me for granted… thank you for another beautiful post!… xoxo Julie Marie
Thank you Julie for sharing that … I feel proud of your dad!
Julie, It’s amazing what we learn from our parent’s example. My dad, who has passed away also, served his country in WWII and then came home to raise a family, volunteer with the local fire company (he was an honorary member until his death), and even did summer missions work up in Alaska in his 70’s) gave me my love of country. And he always took my sister and I voting with him! Love that!
I am so very happy to hear about your wonderful dad, Julie. Thank you for sharing!
Linda
All you Girlfriends with ‘Greatest Generation’ parents are so lucky – as we all are. Shining examples of How To Live. Not just for their wartime service and sacrificue, but afterward in the way they continued to work, raise their families and support the country!
What a precious post today! I loved to see Jack turning his head as he looked at Joe through the window, how cute. My hubby and I voted early, truly a wonderful freedom we have. Can’t wait to have my own copy of the new book, it looks so wonderful. Thank you for your post.
Good Morning Susan!! Happy Election Day!! I am off to get my haircut (my idea of bliss) and then to the polls to cast my vote! How lucky are we to be Americans?? Enjoy the rest of the day with your guys in your cozy, pretty house!! xoxo Debbie
I wish my dogs behaved as well as Iris. I cannot trust them to behave when we have visitors at our house, I shudder to imagine them in other people’s homes. And you are right we are very lucky to have the right to vote. I hope more people realize that. Thank you for another cozy heartwarming post.
I took my 18 year old to vote with me last week during early voting. I don’t know who was prouder! During elections, with all the negative ads and taking sides, it sometimes gets lost just how lucky we are to be able to vote. Thanks for the reminder!
Thank you back Lisa!
And you should be proud, Susan Branch! You have accomplished so much in your life and have touched so many with your beautiful art and words!!!
I am definitely voting after work today.
Thanks for your wonderful message and amazing blog!
Thank you Sharon,have a great day!
Good morning, Susan!!! What a glorious post. Pride – what a lovely word, what a lovely quote, I shall copy down and save! I voted too!!! “Proudly” donning my sticker too. I was #65 in my wee township here in central Illinois. I’m taking my Dad after I get home from work. Got him registered to vote here now that he lives with us – very exciting.
WOW – 10 pages!!!! I can hardly wait for your book. Are you going to tantalize us with anticipation of when we can have one in our hot, little hands! I’m rubbing my hands together with ExCiTeMeNt!!!!!
Your post made my day today, thank you!
I love your sweet Iris baby, isn’t she just adorable all nuzzled up on your love seat! She has a precious face and I’ve rewatched the video you shared with us some time back when she was at your door and that tail was just wagging with excitement. I can see why she returns! Nestled in your warm, cozy embrace-of-a-home!
Wishing you an abundance of blessings during this month of Gratitude!
Bunches of love and hugs,
XooX,
Jeanette
I hate to say a date, although, actually, I’d LOVE to say a date! Soon as I can, I will let you know. xoxo
I understand. A date can put too much pressure on the creative process and we certainly wouldn’t want that!!!. I will wait as patiently as I can with lots of excitement as you share snippets of pages with us knowing the end result is going to be uber, super, spectacularly AWESOME!!!
Hope you feel the LoVe!!!!! 🙂
Oh, I definitely do! 🙂 You make my day!
Could not agree more!! We get to make a difference with our vote, our voice. We are soooo blessed as a country and to be able to vote without fear.
Stepping off soapbox now….
I know, it feels like a soapbox, but then again, it can just be a celebration of our country!
You are such a breath of fresh air and never fail to raise my spirits. You put into words all that is good and honest and beautiful in this life and I thank you. I ,too, count my blessings every single morning and find such joy in the simple, homey blessings all around me. We are indeed blessed, happy women. And by the way, my neighbor’s golden also wanders into my house and plunks down in the kitchen for a snooze. Just hangin’ out. I simply step over her and go on about my day…..and say thank you that we have these wonderful animals in our lives.
Another blessing to count! Cup runneth over! ♥
I am going to be planting 50 new tulip bulbs today – right after I VOTE 🙂
We’re making the world a better place! 🙂 I’m so proud of us!
I just knew there would be a wonderful post from you today and that it would have a beautiful American flag…your grateful heart is always evident and reminds us with such beauty how grateful we should all be…and we are….grateful for our country, for you, and for all the dear girlfriends here. Have a beautiful day! I’ll be voting soon. 🙂
Nice to hear from you Sarah!
If we have the privilege…..we have the responsibility.
Pat…..that is so true and beautifully stated.
Deb
Enjoyed your post today so much, Susan. I will be voting after my husband comes home from work. I just can’t wait til your book is in my hands! I am so looking forward to it. It’s a wonderful time to be alive and we are so blessed in this country. Love ya, Sheila
A beautiful post Susan, thank you! I enjoyed all the pictures and, as always, your wonderful words. My husband Michael and I vote via Absentee Ballot. We’ve done our voting this way for years. It’s so nice to be able to take your time and do it from your own home! God Bless America. ♥
Oh my stars and garters, how do you do that wonderful thing you do? (I believe that’s a song lyric 🙂 ) that was such a beautiful post! You are a one of a kind (on so very many levels) missionary and you continue to touch my heart and fill my cup. Your words resonate deep within. It is such a special treat that you choose to share the pictures of your home, garden, “dream team” AND a preview of your new book – woo who! Page 100!!! I enlarged my computer screen as much as possible to read the two pages you shared with us and it is better than I could have ever imagined. Many thanks and here’s to one great gal, Susan Branch!
Ohhhh, you are the first to read it, except for my dad! I am so happy you liked it! 🙂
Perhaps that was a bit cheek of me…apologies.
I can’t see one thing you might be apologizing for!
Well, maybe for reading your yet unpubished words. But I do feel a bit absolved based on your response, thank you Obi Wan Kenobi!
I did put them there! You can’t be blamed! 🙂
Beautifully said! Amen!
I so remember the first time I voted in a Presidential election as a new adult ~ Dallas, TX, on a sunny fall day. I came out of the building with my heart filled with wonder and now I realize, pride. The good kind of pride you’ve so beautifully described. And I will probably say this every time you feature your kitchen but I love, love, love that room! I keep trying to figure out how to create that same warmth in my house. Thank you for a lovely post! (PS: firefighter son didn’t end up going to the National Fire Academy in Maryland for classes. The campus is being used for a Sandy relief base so they postponed any classes until spring. I saw my son in action yesterday as I passed a traffic accident here on the island and it made me teary with love and pride, the good kind!)
The best kind of all Barbara . . . xoxo
I thought that as I can’t vote today (not being an American!) I would tell you girlfriends the story of the very first time I voted. 1986-ish, so proud. I drove to the tiny village hall that was our local polling station….forgot to get my voting card, so I leaned back into the car to take it from the seat…at the SAME time as I slammed the car door (in my excitement) Bashed the corner of the door into my lip (ouch) but thought no more of it & skipped into the hall. Everyone stared at me as I registered & was given my ballot paper & went into the little booth…”they must all know that it’s my first vote!” I thought proudly. Made my mark, skipped out grinning cheerfully at all the ‘exit poll’ people as they (sort of) smiled back…so happy! Until I realised when I caught my reflection in the car’s rear view mirror that my lip was fountaining blood and when I smiled I looked like a lead character from ‘Twilight’ (although it wasn’t invented then, of course) Oh the shame. Oh the pain! But I was still – and am always – proud & privileged to vote. Good luck America…& may the best man win!! x
hahahaha Rachel! That is so funny! Isn’t that how life is sometimes! Thank you, love a little out-loud laughter in the morning! xoxo
That story certainly made me laugh – I just had too . . . Doesn’t it just sound like something we would all do at one time or another? 🙂
Me for sure!
Great story & I’m smiling, luckily I haven’t bashed my face yet this morning!! xo
Rachel…hello!….you made me laugh out loud! That is a classic story to tell over and over again! lol. 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
I just can’t believe no one asked if you were aware your lip was bleeding! It would be great if more Americans invested a little blood, sweat and tears into going out and voting. Thanks for sharing this story!
oH Rachel! Too Cute! Too funny! And coming from a girl who’s own Dad nicknamed….Grace…..I feel your pain and your laughter!!! 🙂
“whose” own Dad also nicknamed…..worry-wort! 😉
My Mom once spent half the morning – while temping for the day at the main reception desk of a major Fortune 500 company in town – with one of those funny, old-fashioned meshy-wire curlers smack in the middle of her forehead. She always wound the curler there after her shower to help control this nutty cowlick she had – and had to skewer it with this 4-inch pink plastic pin to fasten it. It always looked like some weird punk rock thing – hilarious if you saw my very tastefully-dressed Mom. “I couldn’t figure out why I kept these all these odd looks from all the business men…” :>)
You mean she forgot it was there? Too funny!
Congrats sweet Susan, page 100! Yaaahooo!!! What a mile stone!
I love planting bulbs, they are like little brown packages containing perfect presents for spring.❤ Although, here in California it seems like I stand up and brush the dirt off my jeans and the bulbs are coming up!
You are so right about the pride in voting. We enjoy seeing pur neighbors at our polling place, putting the flag on our porch, wearing the little oval sticker and even bitting our nails while watching results. Hearts full of pride and graditude, how blessed are we who live here.
❌⭕❌⭕,
Tawni Urrutia in Lodi Ca
I know the feeling, planting Daffodils in October and having them come up in November! 😉
Hi Susan……..What a lovely “voting day” blog! We had early voting here in Florida and while I love to vote on November 6th (since its also the day my Mom was born, R.I.P) I decided to vote early this year just in case something came up that would call me away and then I wouldn’t get to vote! To me………….this election is the most important of my lifetime, and I am proud that I am blessed to be able to vote in this great country of ours. Yes, I truly love America! And, I love your kitchen as well. So……………….cozy and inviting. Iris loves your cozy couch too………..she is so sweet………….I am more of a doggy lover and she looks so comfy. Wow that German Pancake looked so tantalizing and yummy! You will be very happy when those bulbs produce flowers in Spring and look back and think of the day you planted them. Have a very happy day today and Blessings to you and Joe. Luv from Gail & Joe Buss (he is very patriotic too) Bev. Hills, Fl XX
You too Gail, Happy Voting day to Joe too!
Yes, I voted prior to my trip and am so grateful for the right, privilege and responsibility. Susan, I’m go grateful you started blogging; you’re a dose of happy, cozy and warm on a daily basis; thank you.
God bless America…may it ever be so!
Makes my day to read the feelings and love voiced here everyday by our girlfriends!
Just home from voting in the heart of Michigan! Happy!!! Off to the kitchen to bake oatmeal cookies–Proud to be an American!!! Happy Election Day to everyone, no matter who you vote for. 🙂
Dear Susan,
Great way to start my day by reading your wonderful post….Can’t wait to vote this morning….what a privilege to be able to do so !! Having worked for the military as a civilian RN and becoming a surogate Mom to so many of our guys and gals in uniform I thank God everyday that these young men and women dedicate their lives to serving and protecting our nation so that we may continue to to exercise this precious right! Have a wonderful day ! XOXO
How sweet that Iris feels so comfy in your home—what an adorable visitor! Reminds me of a story where a dog visited a neighbor lady every day and took an afternoon nap, but the homeowner didn’t know whose dog it was. She pinned a note to the dog’s collar one day and explained where the dog was every afternoon so the dog’s owner wouldn’t worry. The next day when the dog arrived, there was a note on the collar from the dog’s owner stating: “Mom of six kids—dog comes to escape for awhile—can I come next time?”. Tee, hee–so funny! We all need a light-hearted laugh or two and so often our pets provide that and a whole lot more! I agree so much about our wonderful country and how blessed we are even with the ups and downs of life. I have always thought our flag is the most beautiful one in the world and, of course, the freedom and hope it represents. Thank you , Susan, for the sweet reminders of everyday life.
What a fun way to meet your neighbor, through dog notes!
Beverly, Hello! I had to laugh at your story of the visiting dog…and the notes! How adorable! 🙂
Have on my red white and blue … My red white and blue sparkly heart is pinned on, and will turn in my ballot as I go to work! Go USA!
Still have the people touched by Sandy in my heart and prayers.
Loved reading your post again Susan! You lift us up! Love is what you send to us with each post!
Yea!!! Love this post. No truer words have been spoken. Can’t wait for your new book.
OH! Was that photo in black and white of OUR FLAG on the moon? I got chills when I saw that photo. That’s what I thought I was seeing, anyway. Seeing a photo of the flag on the moon never ceases to bring tears to my eyes but always, always, seeing OUR FLAG, anywhere…… anywhere at all……… gives me chills! I love it! And you are so right! What a feeling that little sticker gives you all day long……..all week long! I love being an AMERICAN! I love to vote!
(hq.nasa.gov/alsj/alsj-usflag.html a little history of OUR FLAG on the moon! My Dad helped build the space shuttle and I love NASA and the MOON! I can’t help being proud of BOTH! )
Thank you for the beautiful blog…….in a land where we can speak openly and freely of whatever we wish…….and we DO! It’s a beautiful country!
How wonderful that your dad was involved with the space shuttle!
Dear Nanette and Susan, I had the privilege of visiting the space shuttle ‘Enterprise’ in New York City. I stood there and thought about all the lift-offs and the places the shuttle had been. I was in absolute awe of being able to see and touch this amazing American accomplishment. Looking at the pictures taken from the shuttle was truly a humbling experience. I looked at our little spot on the planet earth called the U.S.A. and felt so small yet so proud to be a voting citizen of our wonderful country. Reading the responses to your amazing blog entry just confirmed for me how lucky we all are. It wasn’t very long ago that women were finally given the right to vote. I hope that everyone is exercising this important privilege today. Sincerely, Carol
xoxo Carol!
Voting is a privilege. I am mindful of all those who have fought to protect that right. I can certainly stand in line for a short time to vote as my friend Greg serves our country in Afghanistan.
Bi partisanship is a word that needs to be used instead of just talked about.
We all should stand a little taller today after voting.
Hello to Greg and a huge THANK YOU xoxo
Animals have such great instincts!! You are indeed an extra special person!!
Was so hoping there would be a new blog today. A beautiful day here in SD. 51 degrees at 8:00 am. Going out to vote. Wouldn’t miss it. Congrats on your book. Sounds like you’ve gotten alot done. Have a great day! God Bless America!
Words do not seem to fail you, Susan…and you say them in such a beautiful way. Thank you for a lovely post and a reminder of how fortunate we all are to live in our beautiful country with all its liberties. LOVED the picture of Iris – can’t help it – I am a dog person…hasn’t happened yet but something tells me it is in my future I’ll probably become a cat person too…probably thanks to you and all your wonderful posts about the kitties. Once…eons ago…my roommate had two cats – and I did enjoy them so. Just hasn’t happened yet. I vote Absentee too just in case…always want my vote to be in the count!
Words fail me all the time, truly. Beauty and sadness are almost impossible to say. You will love a kitty and I’m sure have all the words you need to say so! 🙂
I’m jealous. We don’t get “I voted” stickers after casting our ballots in Western PA.
unfair!
neither do we, i think everyone should get one that voted in the elections. 🙂
Yes, you certainly should get one! It’s an honor to wear.
Okay, so I’m not the only one who is asking, “What is an “I Voted” sticker??” And what a neat idea! Eastern PA doesn’t give out those stickers either.
Just a little oval sticker, very 1950’s I would say, they put it on you as you leave. You do feel like you’ve just got a gold star for doing good work!
Got mine here in southern Illinois… Felt very proud of myself and had a sticker to show for it!!! 🙂 Thank you Susan for a wonderful post.. brought tears to my eyes.. in a good way!! Proud of you and your work as well! Maybe we should campaign for STICKERS FOR ALL!!! Ha!!
…our stickers were ‘square’ where I voted in Alabama… 🙂
Not sure – but I think it’s something the League of Women Voters does in our area. ?? Ours were round, red and white – I Voted Today! I’ve gotten “I Gave Blood” stickers too – even better than the cookie and juice!
God Bless America!!
What a lovely post today. The best part about having to wait in line to vote is catching up with the neighbors! We are truly blessed to live in this country. I loved seeing the sneak peek at your book. And I have a neighbor dog who visits too! Her first stop is the pantry because she knows the dog treats are there. Happy Voting Day girlfriends!
That’s what I love too, seeing our neighbors at the polling place . . . fun! Everyone always seems so happy! And we too have a box of dog treats waiting here for Iris . . . so I can never be sure if it’s ME or that box … which is always her first stop!
I can say for sure that it’s not just the box of dog treats that entices Iris. Any dog knows that they’re in a good “place” when you find them snuggled up on the neighbor’s (white) sofa having a snooze. That is one of the most heart-warming things I’ve seen in a long time. Your heart and home are so giving and beautiful Susan. It’s such a privilege and an honor to be able to share in both of them too, just like Iris. Even as a Canadian, it was nice to see so many of our American brothers and sisters getting out to vote. We all have a lot to be thankful for.
It is – for sure – NOT the dog treats… Iris just thinks of them as a delightful bonus! :>)
🙂 Janet!
Good morning, Susan! We came home from the Fitness Center to find your new post, but my husband was ready to go vote before I could do anything except look at the photos. We’re home now, having exercised our duty and our privilege, and I’m loving your theme for today’s post.
I also love that Iris visits you on her own! Does your friend feel a little hurt? But she probably understands the irresistible pull you have on people and animals alike. 🙂
Martha generously shares Iris with us … she loves that Iris comes to visit, and has a varied and independent lifestyle of her own! 🙂
Good morning, Susan!
I just voted also, and its a great feeling! Thanks for the reminder about planting bulbs, I have to finish that too. Loved seeing your autumn kitchen, that orange quilt on the chair is gorgeous. I’m really looking forward to your next book–do you know if you’ll do a book tour? Have a great day! Linda
I think Joe and I will drive all over the country!
Yay!!!
Make sure to come to Georgia!!!!!!!!!
Texas, check. Georgia, check!
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Don’t forget Texas…..any large city, I will get there!
St. Louis.. which is close to me and my little town!!! I would BE THERE IN A HEARTBEAT!!!
St. Louis!
~Hi~
I may as well put my 2 cents in~
My version of David Letterman’s Top Ten~
Why Susan Branch Should Come To SE Wisconsin
1. Lake front~ bring your bikes so you can ride the new bike trail
2. Look for beach glass, heart stones and tour the lighthouse
3. Culver’s
4. Cheese (curds especially)
5. Kringle & Lingonberry jam
6. Brats
7. County fairs
8. Elkhorn Antique Flea Market
9. If you come in the Summer you can attend any one of the many festivals on the Milwaukee Lakefront
10. Me! I will be your tour guide
(Kidding!)
~Have a Great Day!~
Sounds good to me! What a great list! 🙂
So cute, Lynn! :>)
~ Good Morning~
!Happy Election Day!
I will be glad all the campaigning is done and I’m not even running!!~ Time for all of us to be united in this the most blest country in the world!
Husband & I took our 2 year old granddaughter with us to vote~ saw one of my daughters in line too~ made me very proud!
I have been feeling pride in my home keeping duties as well~ I am feeling very lucky that I am able to do all my chores~with no complaining~just gratitude.
Continuing prayers for all those who had to endure Sandy & prayers for those in the path of the next storm.
~ Blessings~
Lynn
A lovely post. Election day has always been a special day to me. One of the most wonderful and sacred freedoms we have in this country. Thanks for expressing this thought in your special way! Also loved the peek at new pages from “our” book! Can’t wait for publication but know you are doing a great job and we will all be here when it is completed. Wearing my “I Voted” sticker with a smile on my face! lol. Have a wonderful day Sue, Joe, and the Girlfriends.
XOXO
Jackie
Extra special blog today, Susan. I’m SO proud to be an American. LOVE your home & Autumn pictures!!
I too am feeling the excitement of voting day here in western Minnesota today…I’ve voted already and am anxious to hear about people voting all over this great great country…family in Michigan and Ohio are voting today…our daughter in Hamilton County Ohio feels like she is really deciding who will be sitting in the White House!!!…since Ohio is a key state in the election…she is a fourth grade teacher and has her students voting today too…they get a sticker after they vote…one of the discussions in her classroom has been centered around the fact that her fourth graders do not like the change/s in the lunch room that were put into effect…they still want pizza etc…was Joe washing windows???…what a guy…he never ceases to amaze me…xoxo…
Another lovely post this morning, Susan, they just roll off you so beautifully! Love your little peaceable kingdom with Jack, presumably Girl Kitty aloof somethere, and Iris making herself at home on a white couch no less! (You really are an amazing woman!) Joe and Jack are such a charming and helpful team to have on hand! Congratulations on being on page 100 in your book. You’re a great inspiration to me, too. I’m learning new songs with the guitar, and I also write, and hope to publish a book of poems (not that many people read them anymore, but I love writing them, and they are top drawer, as the Brits would say). Speaking of taking pride in things, I don’t mind saying I think I’m a pretty good writer. I’ve been at it since I was 8, and I’m 66 now. Hopefully I’ve learned some things along the way! A history instructor named King Carter once told us that “…your vote is your voice….” When you familiarize yourself with candidates and issues and vote your conscience, you are taking a part in the governing of this great country. When you write letters and/or emails and let your elected officials know where you stand, you take an active role. When someone expresses a political opinion to me, I ask, “Did you vote?” If they say “no”, my response is, well then you don’t take your opinion very seriously, do you?” (Perhaps not quite so succinctly). It is a great privledge and not to be taken for granted to vote in this country. I’m so very thankful to King Carter for giving us that, “Your vote is your voice!” And I love the bulbs and perhaps I will get some and plant some pots. Susan and family, and all the Girlfriends and families, have a wonderful, wonderful day!
Amen to that, Victoria!
Oh, Susan – – You made tears of pride roll down my cheeks as I read your beautiful blog. We, as a nation, have so much to be thankful for. I voted last week, then told my son no one else had to vote, because I already chose who should run the country!! 🙂 He just laughed and gave me a hug, In all my many years of voting, I can’t remember this much excitement over an election. I fly our flag every day and love seeing it “snap” in the breeze. Thank you for expressing so beautifully what we all feel. Hugs from Minnesota, Ruthie
I found out today that your state is number one in the country for the most citizens voting! 77% ! Pretty amazing … you should be proud! 🙂
And PROUD you should be. What a wonderful home and life you have created. You are such a wonderful inspiration to us girlfriends. I did get some tulip bulbs planted earlier in the week, but now you’ve inspired me to go get some more and tuck some in all around the yard. And you’ve also reminded me I need to water my compost piles – it’s been so dry here in Colorado.
I voted early just to make sure it was done in case of an unforseen problem like weather or illness, but I do miss the thrill of doing it with neighbors on this day. My daughter and I shared a table in a crowded London pub years ago with a man from Australia, and the discussion turned to American politics. To make a long story short, we told him that only 40% of Americans vote. He was shocked, and said it was the law in Australia that you had to vote, and he thought it should be that way here. My brilliant daughter explained to him that it would be un-American to force people to vote, but we did agree it was morally and ethically wrong not to. Yesterday NPR was interviewing people in London about our election, and they are as excited about it as we are. I don’t think we realize how important our country is to the rest of the world. I’m sure you noticed on your trip to England that the BBC reports as much American news as they do local news.
Thanks again for another wonderful post. I think I’ll go hang out my flag now!
I’ve heard from both of my English girlfriends today, Rachel and Siobhan have both emailed me; yes they are very excited! We are not in this alone!
And the amazing thing is that whenever there is an exchange of leadership in the US, it is done without bloodshed or the interference of the military. We take that for granted, but for countries who have revolutions and coups, what happens in our country is beyond belief to them. “My Country tis of Thee, sweet land of Liberty”.
Yes, it’s messy, but it does work!
Just came from voting and got my sticker! Yes, I sometimes think people take voting for granted so it is good you reminded us what a priviledge it is. And, as one of the other girlfriends already said, no matter who wins, life will go on…
I–for one–will just be thankful to not have the political ads on television and all of the political phone call interruptions as the last couple of days have gotten to be too much! 🙂 I love your compost pile! Wish we could have one here. It is dark, rainy, and cold here today. I’m glad for your reminder to plant some bulbs. Will be doing it in a barrel on the deck as the townhouse assoc. doesn’t allow anything to be planted in the ground but it would be a nice surprise outside the patio door next spring! Have a good day all!
That barrel will be gorgeous in the spring Pat!
Oh my … your book is absolutely exquisite! I’m salivating already. Voted on my way to work. Loved your post! Bess
Amen sister….say it again!!! Love that “cozy home” feeling. It makes me almost giddy in my heart. Being so thankful for such simple things brings about contentment…and life doesn’t get much better than that. I do so appreciate you sharing a slice of your life, thoughts and joys…because it multiplies ours. What a wonderful place we live….where we have the freedom to vote.
Top of the morning to ya Sue! I went and voted this morning before I headed to work. I too am wearing my “I Voted” sticker! Mine is on my scrubs…all my patients and fellow co-workers can see it! Yeap, I’m proud too! Proud to be an American and have the ability to decide who we want running our country. I couldn’t agree with you more…United We Stand!!! Tall and Proud! FOSB 4~Ever!
~Doreen~ xoxo
Yay you Doreen! Love that enthusiasm!
It is a beautiful sunny morning here. I have been outside sweeping the leaves and little piles of snow off of our deck. I took the huge sunflower heads off the fence that the birds had picked clean. Thanks for reminding me that I have bulbs to plant. Your description of looking at your kitchen is the way I feel about our home. I feel so blessed with what I have. Getting very excited about your new book. Hope the latest storm goes easy on you. Loved the view of Joe’s legs in the window.
Very comforting to have him out there, climbing all over things, hammering things, I just love it!
She’s an American Girl!
Susan,
Happy to see your post! Election day – Yay! I remember my grandparents (and parents) wearing their little oval “I VOTED” stickers. Off to get mine after a few household chores. Have a great day!
Jan
Here is something else you should be proud of Susan: The comment section on your blog is one of the few places online where people who have opposing views still behave with courtesy and respect for each other.
You bring out the best in us with your wonderful attitude and outlook.
(Ever thought of running for President?)
We Americans, and really everyone, have so much more in common than we have differences; if a married couple only talked about their differences, they would fight all the time and then get divorced. But if they talked about how much they are alike, they would realize how lucky they are and work through everything else. There’s a lot of people making a lot of money and becoming very powerful by keeping us apart. We need to outsmart them.
That’s an amazing comment, Susan, and thank you very much! Great advice to remember in all our relationships with one another! Sometimes what seems as if it would be obvious is what we completely overlook.
Whenever Joe and I have an argument, we try to remember to talk about how we met. In about 4 sentences we like each other again!
…only 4? Wow! I would like to hear those sentences!!! Just kidding! Well, maybe not!
All I know for sure …..is that, YOUR sentences would be really good! 😉
I put the sentences in this new book . . . in fact the whole story of meeting Joe is how it starts!
How fun!!! Was it love at first sentence? We are in for such a treat! Romantic? Funny? Sweet? Sassy? Sweet & Sassy? We all know how it ends……happily ever after! Anticipating your English Diary in 2013! and Tom Hooper’s Les Miserables at the theatre this Christmas!
It’s all so very special! 🙂 xoxo
It wasn’t exactly love at first sentence, but it was, “I want to sail to Europe on an ocean liner” at first sentence! Close enough! SO excited about Les Miserables…the music is going to be wonderful!
Hey You….I am here….you are there…..and here we be!!! We both had our first meeting sentences come true! You….sailed to Europe on an ocean liner! Me…..bought an album from Target! Hahaha…..Bret, made the first sentence, “Buy it (album), it’s really good! I turned around and it was like xoxox ! 🙂 After talking for two hours (my Dad, waiting in the car, fell asleep!) I finally bought the album. When I was checking out I noticed Bret had gotten in the same line….thought he wanted another look….nope, he had to also buy the album…..he had no idea if it was good or not!
So…….who is the better wish-wisher? I think we both are….You got Joe and I got Bret…and wishes do come true…..eventually!
Cute Dawn, it seems to me he took one look at you and xoxoxo!
Funny thing…..I framed that album and see it everyday! Funny thing…..that album looks just like it did 30 years ago….as for Bret and myself, hmmm…….let’s just say…. have you heard of the Velveteen rabbit? Well loved!!! 😉
Thanks for the encouragement! It is a wonderful place these United States of America! I saw several parents with thier children at my voting station in North Augusta SC. The 4th grade teacher at the school where i work had encouraged parents to involve thier children in the process! It was a blessing to see the kids there in the cool rainy morning and the PILEs of cars of todays early morning voters!
THank you for all your wonderful posts, for todays reminders of our wonderful country, for your appreciation of family values, American values & just for being you! This is country is blessed by the many citizens from so many various backgrounds! But today I was blessed by your post & by seeing so many VALUE the freedom our country has! Have a wonderful & blessed day!
Kindred spirits unite!
Thank you Susan for such an inspiring post. I have been feeling a little down about our country lately. I know we are all so lucky to have the opportunity to cast our vote for our elected officials. I am married to a patriot that has worked his whole career in support of the US Navy. We love our country so much and are both proud Americans. After voting this morning and reading your blog I’m feeling more hopeful for the future. xoxo ♥
You should! Democracy is messy, getting all those people to agree, but over the 200 plus years we have moved forward to meet the challenges and we will continue to do that! Have faith … xoxo
Wonderful post and photos ! And so you should be proud ! I love your home and the way you describe your mornings and thoughts , I feel the same of my little world in Our Country Cove here in Ontario Canada !
My heart is swelling with pride! I’m proud to be American! I’m proud of you dear Susan for writing this beautiful blog (& Ray Charles’ rendition of American the Beautiful is heart-thumpin’)! As Carrie says, “you are a one of a kind missionary” & I love you for being on this mission & taking us along! “We are the world”!!!! Gotta go change my pink shirt to red, white & blue! God Bless Us All! Much love, Joanie
AMEN AND AMEN! We are very blessed by God to be able to vote freely in the U.S. of America!
Your home is so warm and inviting. Love how the neighbor dog comes to hang out with you. Proud to be American
I miss those “I Voted” stickers and going to the polls to vote ~ Where we live, our ballots are mailed to us. It’s so very convenient, but that sense of communal experience is lost. I used to love watching the elders who would scroll with their gnarled index fingers through the voter rosters to look up our names and addresses. I miss chatting with fellow citizens while we waited. I miss taking our (then small) children with us so that they, too, could feel the excitement of this priviledged experience. We do choose to hand deliver our completed ballots, though, to the ballot box in our City Hall offices, so that we can continue to feel some small sense of a personal connection each voting season.
On another note — How exciting to see a glimpse of the “England Book”! It’s looking as beautiful and delightful as can be! Can’t wait!
hello and good morning susan and everyone!! i already voted, and so has my hubby…we mailed in our ballots on Halloween. we w2anted to get them in early. well i can cross that off my to do list along with shampooing the carpets, scrubbing and waxing the floors, polishing the furniture til it shines, cleaning the windows, raking the leaves, and repairing the wind chimes, put a new string on it and replaced the old one. all that is left to do is oil the wooden spoons and the cutting board and i’m done. i still have more raking of leaves to do, but since we have another storm moving in, that has to wait. yew we all have something to be thankful for, and i hope we start to see a change of things in this country for the better, we’ve had the worst, time for the better. i do love that team of Jack and Joe, what a cute team almost as cute as Midnight and Ed ( my 2 favorite guys). well off to go feed the poultry, sweep out the barn and henhouse, and clean out the water tubs and ducky pool and refill them all. you all have a great day today, Happy Fall and Happy Election Day everyone. get out and vote!!!! hugs……. 🙂
You are so right, Susan. We have so much to be thankful for. It is an honor to be able to vote. We have the flag flying outside, the election coverage on the tv, and my dear husband has reported for jury duty today. These things that we are privileged to do are a part of us.
Just want to share something special, too. This Saturday, Nov. 10 is the 237th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. We have a son and two nephews who are Marines. We are so proud of them.
I loved the picture of Iris. Reminds me of our Bridget that we had when our three boys were growing up. She was a wonderful dog.
I am so excited about the book. The pages you have shown us look wonderful! What a treasure it will be. Well, off to the care center to visit my 90 year old dad, another thing I am thankful to be able to do. Blessings to you.
Semper Fi, Mary Ann! Please thank your son and nephews for me – for their service. Men in my family have served as Marines too. Always the first ones in, always the last ones out – so proud of all of them! :>)
Just arrived home from voting here in the Midwest!
I love seeing the pictures of your home. They always inspire me, much more than official “decorating” blogs… and I can’t wait for the new book!
Thank you for sharing the beauty and reminding us that a healthy sense of pride in ourselves enriches our lives and those that share it!
Wonderful post, Susan. So encouraging and uplifting. Thank you for making time to share your heart.
Yes, voting makes me feel like I am contributing to this great nation we call home. No big money can buy my vote because I get to choose based on what I think is best. I also agree with you that a great deal of gratitude fills my heart when I am able to accomplish tasks that make me feel more peaceful, productive, helpful, challenged, or joyful. Every day offers us a chance to make a difference . Sometimes it is in small ways like a compost pile that nourishes a productive garden with plenty to share. Sometimes it is learning a new skill to make life new in different ways. I love your quotes and artwork that always reminds us readers where to look for the hidden blessings in our daily journeys . Thanks Susan for always inspiring me with your thoughts and artwork!! And that new book???? You betcha I am ordering one as soon as they are available!! I can’t wait to retrace “our” steps from last summer!
“Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone; and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.”
John Quincy Adams
I experienced something yesterday, I want to share. My Mom lives in Florida, in a small retirement community. The main street of her town is busy with lots of traffic, two lanes each way with a wide landscaped median between them. As we drove to a doctor’s appointment, we could not believe what we saw……..
In the grassy median between the lanes of traffic, was a woman, a very, very elderly woman standing with a poster board sign she had made that stated “I voted, I am a Woman, I believe in Women’s rights.”
And then, as we drove up to the stop light, we saw 15-20, more very elderly women and men, many in wheel chairs, some with walkers, some sitting in the grass……all with homemade signs supporting their candidate.
These very elderly Americans…..were holding their signs proudly for all those driving by to see. Sitting, standing, in the heat, the sun, in a grassy median showing support for the American process. And there was the sign that said…….”The Power of the Vote…..it’s up to YOU…..believe in America.”
Mom and I were in tears, knowing the strength and fortitude it took for each of those senior citizens to be there, to show up and show others, that no matter, how old, ill, or disabled…they were proud to be Americans and they believed, we have been given a privilege that should not be taken for granted…..the vote.
Susan, Thank You for such a poignant post. The ability to vote is such a privilege. I am proud to be an American.
Those are the people of the greatest generation, they fought for every single thing they had, and we have. xoxo Thank you Deb!
Thanks for sharing this great quote and beautiful story, Deb! How lovely of these people to get out there and share their wealth of experience in this way!
Thank you so much for sharing this ~ so heartwarming and important! Yes, the Greatest Generation.
Wow! My heart would have melted! What a lovely sight…..full of patriotism and passion for America….the beautiful! How excited they must have been planning and preparing to decorate the streets with …..themselves!
Wow Deb, how moving this had to be! Good for them..making their point! Amazing people!!
Thank you for your inspirational words. I love how your writings lift my spirits and soul. AND, how sweet is Iris. Dog company is some of the best company a woman can have.
Dear Susan,
Just a little line of encouragement for you…I think half of the reason I so value all your books…and I believe I have them all…is that you crafted each letter of each word, sentence, paragraph. Knowing you put so much of yourself into your books makes them ever so dear.
Thanks for all your special writing….and watercolors, of course.
Sheryl
That’s so sweet of you to say Sheryl. They are really more like letters than books! 🙂
Love letters straight to the heart….your books really are so special and so delightful Susan, and I can’t even believe you write that all out so beautifully. As it is, I print like a dancing bird that stepped in an inkwell. I often find myself thinking, “How in the world does she DO THAT?”
Verrry sloooowly 🙂
I am SO proud to be an American today! Yes, it’s all about pride, it makes my heart swell!
I was worried when I didn’t see you post for awhile…all those pages written and illustrated and the bulb planting, you have been a busy girl, I love your energy! Loved seeing Iris curled up on your couch, I am a big dog lover. Hope she gets along with the kitties! Curious Jack is probably having a ball!
I hope you have a marvelous week…I am going to be doing a little baking and freezing for Thanksgiving. Can you believe how close it is?! BTW, those German pancakes look delicious!
Have a Happy Day!
XO,
Jane From Chicago
Heh Susan, not to change the subject of this post, but don’t forget you are going to post a blog about your pantry? 🙂 (thanks!)
I will . . . pretty soon. xo
And Jaime’s wedding WITH the singing including Joe…lol!! What did everyone wear? What was served for dinner, you know, all the scintillating details!!! Come on Jaime..let Susan tell us….enquiring minds want to know…it’s just us girlfriends here!!!
Oh, I should do that!!
Went to vote before work this morning. And, susan, you are absolutely correct – no matter what side we prefer, we are all voting FOR our country. Even with our problems, we have the BEST country! It was so fun athe end of the voting process in our voting booths, you weren’t done until we saw the Stars & Stripes waving!
Love your dream team!!
That new book is on my mind, I am waiting for its release!!
I have been following you for a long time. Far longer than
before blogging became a means of communication!
I have long been a customer of your artwork in all forms,
and today – well – it just needed to be said outloud to you
on your cozy blog that speaks to every part of my soul.
Thank you my sweetest friend for all you give to us
in the form of positiviity and softly precious ways of
going about our life living.
xo, Patti in La Porte
I’m so happy to hear from you, thank you so much Patti!
Thanks for your great post Susan. I will be watching BBC news keeping up with your election results. I too think it’s a privilege to vote – you can’t moan about the state of the country or the world if you don’t do your bit and vote.
How many pages are you aiming for? 🙂
At this point I think its going to be somewhere around 250. Just a guess, will know better at about 150 pages!
Wow! That’s going to be a real gift! Thanks so much for all your hard work.
That’s good and bad news! Good because the more the better, but bad because it will take longer! 🙂 Thanks for your answer.
We’re patient! We can wait for 250 pages!
Cuteness deserves a little space . . . 🙂
Plus all that cuteness takes time! Half the fun is the waiting! The thrill of anticipation! :>)
I am so very proud to live in this One Nation Under God!! I voted today too. Our sticker has “I” (then the state of Ohio in red like a heart) “Voting”. Isn’t that great? So you planted bulbs UNDER your rose bushes….I have some yet to plant (bought 36 tulips and 36 daffodils). That is a very good idea, never thought of it. Did you put them like right under the bush? ouch! I think I might plant some under my knock out roses. Also very proud of you for have a compost pile, a great way to give back to mother earth that gives us so much! xoxo
We have a large tumbling hedge of roses, so we put the bulbs just forward a bit, under them . . . by the time the roses bloom, the bulbs will be over. Love your sticker!
dear Susan…
I wrote you an email Mary, to the address on this comment, but something tells me you are not getting it?
We vote by mail in Oregon, but that has its own rewards too. We sit at the kitchen table to do our ballots (no secrets here), discuss the initiatives, and the candidates. Love your post, excited about your new book, and very excited because our shelter kitty, who hid in a cubby in the gas fireplace for three entire weeks, has been out the past week getting to know the family. She is a love. Live is good.;)
Of course, I meant, life is good.
i voted! WE voted and had to wait in line(4 people ahead of us, maybe). We got the last space in the parking lot.People were just coming & going. Longest line to vote we ever had in our little township fire hall. Love getting my oval “I voted!” sticker too.
Yay you Susan!
Susan, you made me get a tear or two in my eyes from this blog! 🙂 I was deeply moved. I didnt grow up with anyone telling me that they were proud of me and I never thought it was okay to feel pride for ourselves until I had my daughter. I changed that legacy in our family and every chance I have gotten, I tell her how proud we are of her AND how proud she should be of herself for all of her many accomplishments and hard work and for using the gifts that she has specially been given. She now IS proud of herself…in a humble sort of way, of course…lol….and I am proud of myself these days too. There are so many things to be proud of ….and it isnt the wrong kind of pride! I think it is wonderful that YOU are proud of yourself …..and I love how you savor your accomplishments and enjoy what you have created…..and it shows in your generousity of spirit and your heart that shares so much with so many!! You even share Joe with the girlfriends! lol. What adorable pictures of him on the ladder and working outside with his special hat! He looks like a painting ,and he is too cute and handsome!!! I can see why you are proud to have him as a husband. I laughed that the neighbor’s doggie visits you in your home! It reminds me of the times I hear….with deep embarrassment…that one of my kitties has been over at a neighbors and they have let him inside and fed him! Yikes! I always used to think that he barely stepped foot off of our front porch…….. Two more things…I LOVE your kitchen all decorated for Autumn….so cosy for an early morning cup of coffee! …..AND…..I am so proud to hear when other ppl vote! I love being patriotic and having a voice. I love it when so many others are like-minded. This is such a special day….thank you for a wonderful message!
And for your wonderful comment! Can I say I’m proud of you? I am. xoxo
Hubby and I went to our polling place, a church right up the hill from us, at 7:15 this morning to vote. We stood in line outside the little country church for several minutes chatting with fellow voters and waiting our turn to exercise our most precious right. What a diverse group of Americans we were–a young Mom with a baby in her arms and a toddler in tow, several people voting before they headed off to work, senior citizens, farmers, factory workers, a young woman heading off to college class, and a young man who just returned home a couple months ago after serving our country in Afghanistan. Pride–oh my, yes, we were all bound together this cold, bright election day with pride and hope for our country. No matter what our individual political positions, we are all still part of something greater. God bless America!
Beautifully said Shannon!
I am leaving to vote as soon as I finish posting this! Thank you for the beautiful, patriotic blog!! So wonderful!
I just want to share something I read on Facebook this morning, I think you’ll like it: “When complaining about how long the line at the voting booth is, never forget that plenty of brave souls died to give you that right.”
Love from Mary S. in Fresno, CA
Perfect Mary, so true.
love your post. i voted last week [in oregon we vote by mail but it isn’t as much fun as going to the local school or fire station to vote.]. i pray that the people [hurricane victims] in the hard hit places will vote. hard to think of voting or an election when you have no home. my 62nd birthday has rushed by me without a pause for me to catch my breath. where does the time hurry off to? and i think i need a vacation from birthdays. it will have to be a free vacation but i hope to curl up with a good book [ wish it was your new book] and ‘veg’ this afternoon. the rain is coming and the house is in some what of order. i am putting a roast in the the crock pot with a yam and new potatoes covered with au juis. so dinner is ready. laundry is almost caught up and except for a few dishes in the sink….i am free! by the by, i am a co-author of a book and feel sorta proud.it actually sold a few copies and i am in the process of cleaning up a book i wrote myself. oh, i could do that this afternoon. oh drat! do i ‘run away’ or do the book? wish i had not bragged! this time pride led to a downfall. may your day be bountiful in love. b
That’s the thing, the running away is oh so tempting at all times, especially when the leaves blow by the window outside, a person just wants to go get in them!
Thanks so much for such a thankful , patriotic pst today ..I will hum “America” all day. So proud of a grandson just back from a year in Afganistan who is calling all his buddies and telling them to get out and vote
How lucky we are!
Pat in Ohio
Love to your grandson and a big Thank you, Pat!
We voted at 8:30 this morning in our little community of 800 souls on the plains of Kansas. Ninety people had voted by that hour — a good sign for a big turnout. I am so profoundly thankful that I was born in this wonderful country and that we still have the freedom to vote. Many have said here that we are “lucky” in America. I respectfully must disagree — luck has nothing to do with our freedoms here. Our rights and freedoms were bought by the blood of committed patriots who have gone before us. (Although I know what you are conveying by using the term “luck”. 😉 ) May God continue to shed His Grace on us! I am wearing my “I Voted” sticker at home today (even though the kitties and puppy are the only other ones here with me). What a privilege to wear that little sticker!
What a treat to have a good neighbor like Iris! She is a sweetheart and you are greatly blessed, Susan, to enjoy her friendship.
winnie*
>^..^<
Susan I just returned from the polls here in Cambria, and it just took about fifteen minutes to vote. When I think of the people who have to stand in line all day, and its cold, and maybe they took off work, or their feet are sore, or maybe they are hungry; thirsty. Then is when a surge of pride for my fellow voters just about lays me flat. Go Americans! xxx
julie
Go Americans! Yay us! Thank you Julie!
Another delightful column. My one thought on every election, “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain.” It took me 15 minutes to walk from my house to the polling place, greet and visit with friends and neighbors working the polls, vote, and walk home. I, too, wear my little oval sticker until it falls off my coat. I’m proud to be an American, whatever political party is in office.
I love Indiana people. I just do!
And every one of your fans in Indiana likes to think that if we were fortunate enough to be your neighbor, we would be the best of friends. You are so very special to all of us, including those who live elsewhere. If we had music here, it would be “You’re the Top” by a fellow Hoosier, Cole Porter, from my home town of Peru.
🙂 Pat … ♥
This is amazing…it brought tears to my eyes. I just want to give you a big hug; this is such an amazing day for our country; our ability to vote is something that so many do not have. It is not a right we all share—we are privileged to have this right. It was something that was fought for and is a testament to our country’s strength and vigor.
So much hardship for so many today; my prayers go out to all those who are suffering without power, without fuel for their generators, without homes to keep warm in as the weather turns colder. I am proud of our country’s ability to stand strong, come together, and help one another. Although this election is so divided, it is my firm belief that in our hearts, we all want the same things…. health, family, happiness, love.
Thank you for being MY inspiration as well….
xo
Joann
Thank you Joann, so wonderfully said! xoxo
Thank you so much for the post today….reminding us all of the pride we feel when we cast our ballots. As I walked in the office where I work, I asked everyone I met if they had voted yet and if not…don’t forget to do it by the end of the day. I’m glad to say, most of the folks had already cast their votes either by mail or in line at the voting stations before they came to work. I’m so thankful we have a country where we can have a voice in deciding who and how we should lead our country into the future. America….what a great place to live!!! -r-
Something tells me this is going to be a very big voting year!
Your posts are the best. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the feeling of pleasure over a job well done. That’s one of the blessings of work. I love to work. I love the freedom to vote. I love the wee smalls.
Husband and I went to the polls together today – fun to see other neighbors there too!! Huge turn out! Got our “I voted” stickers and he went to work while I went to the Farmer’s Market! Bought a jar of raw almond butter (plus late crop peaches and other goodies)! Looking forward to fresh celery and Honey crisp apple with almond butter for lunch! Then will have the other half of my apple with almond butter before I go to body sculpt class @ the Y this afternoon! Thankful for every little thing today and every day!
Can’t wait to see the finished book, Susan! Your are making great progress! Love that you are “flashing” us tempting little glimpses! Have a wonderful week! 😉
I love the sound of all those delicious things you are eating!