You Are Beautiful

From 4:30 in the morning until 8:30, One Woman went nonstop. Computer, 2 loads of wash, went over all the floors with soft broom, vacuum and swifter, cleaned leaves off terrace, and then breakfast.

She knew if a trip away from home did not happen soon she would be outside working in the leaves and picking up branches.

A call was placed and a friend who does not drive said she would enjoy a ride into the country.

A special place about 20 minutes from the woods is an old school house. The school house has been turned into part museum and part consignment shops. The cafeteria has been turned into a restaurant. Friday is catfish day. The deserts are excellent - butter milk pie and coconut cream pie with mile high meringue.

So it turned out to be a delightful afternoon. My friend laughed when a quick trip up an unfamiliar driveway came about. An unusual and beautiful flower that was not familiar was spotted. One Woman is never bashful about inquiring about a plant :)

The image on this post is a tree that was in front of the old school house. Comments on the fall colors keep being made - but when you return to your home place and see all this beauty that catches your eye and your breath - it is difficult not to keep talking about it.

Simple Pleasures

Last night as the sun was going down a friend called and said " something in the sky looks like a cross can you capture it with your camera"? Forgot about it until a minute ago when I was taking a picture of my simple apple cake. When I downloaded my pictures - there it was.

The cross in the sky and an awesome sunset ended the day yesterday.

A busy day filled with errands, thought I lost my credit card and found it on the floor board of my truck. Thankful heart !!

Calling for frost tonight - so 6 green tomatoes picked and put in the window. 7 green peppers to be chopped and go in freezer. A bowl full of the best turnip greens I have ever tasted were picked. This may be because I grew them. Half a dozen of small turnips were an addition to the greens for my simple evening meal plus a few small almost November roses.

A last minute thought - I have not baked in a week and I there has to be something homemade in the cottage. A simple apple cake that called for applesauce and I used some of the apples I had on hand - topped with cream cheese frosting - Pretty good....

Young school boy that helps me at times came after school. We put up the hose, shut vents under the house and raked leaves. I went to pay him and he would not take the money - said it was the last 2 hours of his community service for the boy scouts. I told him I did not feel right about not paying him. He looked me in the eye and said "there is no charge". So next week will have him return and finish on the leaves and this time I will pay him.

After The Rain

The stack of books by my old leather chair is growing !!

Rain - most of the day - but I felt like doing nothing. Not my normal routine. I blame it on the rain, tooth surgery and time change that is rapidly approaching.

I am trying to prepare myself for the time change. At this time I am up very early - like 4:30 to 5:00 AM and go to bed and read and pray and meditate at about 7:30 to 8:00. I need to start making some changes so I am not getting up and retiring earlier.

Once I settle into cooler weather and being inside - I love it. A time to rest, read and just be.

I have felt very restless today - does the time change affect anyone else besides this One Woman?

Each Has A Story

Blessed rain arrived in the night. Daylight has not arrived and cannot view how many more leaves fell during the night.

These images were viewed yesterday evening. The thought came to mind "they each have a story".

Our lives each have stories - many stories....

One Woman on her present journey is sharing one of her stories. Some stories from the past that arise unexpectedly in her mind "she wonder's who is that woman"?

If one advances confidently in the direction of one's dreams, and endeavors to live a life which one has imagined, one will meet with a success unexpected in common hours............ Henry David Thoreau

Early Morning

This is part of the view as I sweep off the front porch. A beautiful, still - early morning.

Another day unfolding and the thought never leaves this One Woman's mind of how thankful she is that fate allowed her to return home.

All is well in the country.

Healing

A busy week with my youngest granddaughter's visiting. Then the little one that punctured her eardrum "playing with a Q Tip - had outpatient surgery to repair her eardrum. A short time of a lot of pain and not being able to hold anything on her stomach (think it was the morphine used for pain) yesterday seemed almost back to normal at play time. Now little ear - heal completely.

Yesterday was the appointment in the big city for my dreaded tooth extraction. Only one tooth pulled in the past and it was a whiz. Now this was different. The tooth crumbled and broke off - so - what seemed like forever - tooth was out. A little sore this morning. I didn't plan on gum being cut and stitches. Might add that through my healthy younger years I never heard of Sjogrens - something that seems to have attached itself to One Woman - which seems to not be to good for her mouthful of teeth.

Wherever you are - enjoy the day!!

A beautiful and sunny day is expected and all is well in the woods.

Friday Morning Thoughts

I must remember to practice mindfulness, to breath slowly, laugh, let go of expectations, hug, sing, listen with my heart, to be open to unexpected miracles, to pray and to be Thankful For Another Year that is unfolding.

So if we love someone, we should train in being able to listen. By listening with calm and understanding, we can ease the suffering of another person
Thich Nhat Hanh

Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.
the Dalai Lama

Some thoughts from One Woman on another beautiful fall day.

Grandma Had Visitors

The Gift

Last week I lost an earring. One Woman is not in the market for any more jewelery.
The only items she wants at this time are - flowers, garden tools and books :)

I looked and looked for this earring and decided it was gone for good.

This morning as I was clearing woods path - guess what - there it was on my path.

The amazing thing is I have walked this path many times before this morning, have used the blower many times and never saw my earring before. A wonder the blower did not blow it into the woods..........

I am smiling and wanted to post this and need to eat breakfast.

Have a good day.

See ---- Miracles never cease.

My Country Road

My First Granddaughter

A birthday card received from my first granddaughter.

Inside these are the words she wrote.

"It's been quite a journey - 5 children, 6 grandchildren, countless beautiful homes and memories.
I am blessed to have you as my grandmother and I am so happy you've found peace in your new home and happiness among the woods and animals. I can't wait to see all you've done.

Spoil yourself and have a fabulous birthday".

Love, Jessica

Now what do you think this did to her grandmother's heart? Especially when over the last few days she has prayed many times "Who am I - who am I really - what else am I to do in this lifetime"?

"Foolish, One Woman - yes, for a short time you seemed to forget who you are and what you have done. Now that you have been reminded by this "dear one" - be assured new paths will open and but now is the time to go slowly. You are no longer who you were. You may not relate to the chronological number but your continued path through your 70's will be a little different - much of what you have done in the past is no longer possible - but in many ways it will be more enjoyable and much more peaceful".

Thank you my dear dear granddaughter. I love you....

So a new day begins. A day of sunshine, errands and a continued to/do list for the cottage and the garden. A time to walk the path in the woods, sit on the deck, and some time just to be!

May all my dear children, grandchildren and online friends have a special day!!!

A Day In October

Bliss is another word for happiness. This is what it means to this ancient one an early morning. In her oldest clothes, camera around the neck, blower going full speed as she continue to keep the woods path clear, and cell phone in her pocket.

A delightful morning. It is cool, breezy, and the sun is shining brightly. Just finished using the blower on the path through the woods. Could not resist hanging clothes on the line. Love seeing them blow in the breeze.

Last of basil in the freezer - and some placed in water to root. Also some sprigs of sage put in soil to see if this is successful. Read somewhere you could do this. Also sprigs can be put in the soil outside and they take root. If not successful it sure has a wonderful scent in my kitchen area. Expecting frost in the next few days so needed to get this out of the way.

It is time to stop and have a cup of tea.

Her eyes land on this scene. "Callie no " Hope the little frog got away? Did not look like Callie was eating anything - so really could not tell.

Thankful that one daughter arrived safely in New York. She is attending something special for granddaughter Sarah who attends Manhattan School of Music. Another daughter will be returning in hours from Sweden. (busy family)

Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring

back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country.

~Anais Nin~

Wherever you are on this planet - best wishes are sent to you from One Woman who lives at the edge of the woods ...

Egyptian Onions

I do not remember where I read about this magazine "The Heirloom Gardener". I do know I enjoy reading gardening magazines (also cook books) and this one looked different.
An interesting story about the young couple who own this nursery.

I ordered the magazine and it arrived about 10 days ago. I like it, and I was immediately drawn to an article about - old fashioned winter onions. When I lived in the old farm house over 30 years ago I was given some multiplying onions. Planted them and I had onions all year for years. When I sold the farm house and embarked on a different lifestyle I left the onions behind. The new owners were not interested in my wonderful onions. This article reminded me of my special onions.

I will add that most of my gardening treasures at past homes were soon covered with lawn :(

There were three suppliers listed in the publication, and all were out of the onion that I once raised. (at least I have tracked it down)

They did have an onion they called "Egyptian Walking Onion". This onion really sounds unusual.

An article in the magazine about this onion.

The bulbils are at the top of the onions and are useful in cooking. The onion itself is not very big and you use it like a shallot. The onion bares year around and multiplies rapidly. You can use the green part like a scallion. This is a long article but if anyone is interested you can look them up online.

I ordered my onions from Nichols Garden Nursery - 1190 Old Salem Rd NE - Albany, Oregon 97321. The onion sets arrived in less then a week. The order was for 10 bulbs and there must have been 15 in the small bag. They have been planted and watered. Can't wait to see what they are like :) If they make it - I will have onions for everyone :) Hope they grow with our unusual dry weather.

The Heirloom Gardener

2278 Baker Creek Road

Mansfield, Mo 65704

Blessed Rain

A trip to the big city yesterday. I did not want to go but there were some things I needed to attend to. While there I could go to the bakery and replenish the supply of my favorite bread.

Since I plan on making fewer trips into town - I bought 2 loaves and will freeze most of it. I can take several slices out at a time for toast, french toast and just warmed in olive oil to go with dinner.

I did not make this trip with peace. I just did not want to leave my woods. Most of the trip - I tried to be aware of my breath, and repeated the many scriptures and positive affirmations that were memorized in another life. Finally my peace was restored. With a thankful heart these times are few and far between. When I am home I can walk and garden and I am at peace.

I will write at another time in depth of other lifetimes I have led. Viewing the small city cottage that was built 4 years ago and seeing the really big home that once held my family, the American dream of a young couple who started with nothing and attained from the worlds standard the prize. One Woman's journey has taught her much. it was a emotional time. Did not realize it would be so extreme. As I drove past the homes my mind was flooded with memories.

A difficult night and I know what to do. I will be mindful, it is part of the past. I am no longer that person. All that matters is this moment.

A wonderful rain fell part of the day. When I returned and pulled down the long gravel drive I could see such a difference in what I viewed. The leaves are turning and the colors are magnificent. The leaves on the ground even look lovely to me. No thought of raking. They will protect my new garden throughout the winter and the wind will blow most of them away.

Rain for most of today. I will welcome staying inside and going at a slower pace.

May we all be ........ peaceful, happy, content, fulfilled, and at ease.

My Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread in the oven. Will be done in time to enjoy with my breakfast. When I started writing I did not have a file for recipes so do not know if I have posted this family favorite before. This recipe enjoyed for almost 50 years.

The main difference is over the last 5 years I add cranberries. I have been watching and they were finally in the store last Friday.

Every time I bake I miss sharing my baking with my son.

Pumpkin Bread

3 1/2 cups sifted flour
3 cups sugar
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cloves
1/4 tsp ginger
4 eggs
1/2 cup water
1 cup Wesson oil
2 cups canned pumpkin ------- times in the past I had fresh pumpkin
1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup cranberries (optional)
Mix eggs, sugar, pumpkin - then alternate flour, seasonings, oil and water - add nuts, raisins, cranberries.

I use 3 small loaf pans or 2 larger ones. Well greased and I put parchment paper in bottom of pans. 350 degrees for l hour.

IMAGE - 1 hour later - bread is done and cooling :)

A October Morning

Nothing taste quite like turnip greens that you plant, pick and cook - yourself.

More Basil for the freezer. I can smell the spaghetti sauce simmering.

This herb is in a mixed pot. At the moment I do not remember what it is. Pot also contained purple sage, rosemary and dill. Pot was a end of season sale purchase. There is a slight breeze and image came out kind of blurry. Does anyone know what it is. I thought I was told tarragon. Do not think that is what it is. I IDENTIFIED THE MYSTERY HERB - IT IS THYME

I remember when this car was new. When they replaced it - they put it in the woods.

When I drive down my country road and see it sitting in the woods - for some reason it makes me smile.

Another beautiful sunny day. I planted some special multiplying onions. Will share about them at a later date. If they survive I will never have to buy onions again :)

Online Diary

The thought keeps entering my mind of stopping this online diary? When it was started I wondered what am I going to write about? Seems I have had no problem of continual thoughts and image opportunities coming forth. Soon to be 500 entries, and that is almost unbelievable to this One Woman.

That thought will surface and then I remember why I started writing online. I read my words - "for my pleasure, my children, and my grandchildren". That has not changed.

Just did not foresee that I would meet so many wonderful online friends. You read my rambling personal thoughts, quotes that speak to my heart, view images of my life. I continue to share some of my past, present and future. Dear online friends I have not met any of you in person but so many of you have become so very special to me. I thank you for your comments and encouragement over the last 2 1/2 years.

A special gift that I treasure - A copy of "Crone Wandering" from Cate http://www.kerrdelune.blogspot.com/. - was in my mailbox yesterday. This poem was posted in November of 2009.

I plan on placing it in a frame and putting it on my desk. The words speak to my heart, mind, soul and spirit in a very deep way.

Wish I could gather all of you together. We would sit in front of a fire and enjoy tea and something I have baked. As you came in the door I would hug you and there would be a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.

I guess I will continue sharing and learning how to use a camera. If anyone other then family cares to read about a lady who shares in part - what it is like to grow older and follow her heart - it makes me smile.

Guess, I really cannot stop.

Soon A Memory

The woods surrounding my cottage are cool and leaves beginning to color and fall.

My small terrace is warm and sunny all afternoon.

This is an image I took about 15 minutes ago . My favorite place to sit - when I sit :)

A helper arrived and took an image of One Woman in her favorite outdoor chair.

Thought

There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power.
They speak more eloquently then ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief, deep contrition, and unspeakable love.

~Washington Irving~

Now A Memory

One daughter arrived safely home from California. Another daughter spent the day with mom. A day spent enjoying the country side. Visit to a small town that seems to be turning into a ghost town. Most little stores are closing. A visit to a local vineyard where some local peach wine was purchased. A delightful lunch in her nearby small town and the day came to an end.

Heart Felt

Received a package from Thailand.

How do you describe a card that is what your imaginary garden would look like? This card does it so well. Inside my son has written some special quotes for his mother. From time to time I will share a quote. They are received with much love and appreciation as continued guidance and thoughts on my ongoing journey through this life.

A book I have been trying to find. Unavailable on Amazon - was received.

"Snow In The Summer" by Sayadaw U Jotika.

On the inside cover ----- I'm not just a monk;

I'm also a human being.

I"m not trying to be somebody.

I just try my best to understand

whatever is happening

in my life, in my mind,

in my heart.

No name and no fame;

when I die

nothing will remain.

So - mom is teary eyed and can feel the love coming to her from over the ocean.

Enjoy this weekend. My weather is delightful. Cool mornings and pleasing warmth in the afternoon. Need rain!!!!

Simple Fare

There are many times that One Woman is not in the mood to prepare a meal for one.

The mornings are wonderfully cool and much time is spent outdoors. Within a few hours the temperature elevates to the 70's.

Some frozen ground meat and veggies in the refrigerator makes a quick chili. This a little different to the simmered meat - she adds - chopped onions, celery, carrots, and a handful of my green peppers and tiny tomatoes are put in the pot. A little tomato sauce, water, pinto beans, chili powder and a pinch of garlic is soon simmering.

Cheese and crackers with this chili - sitting out in the sunshine on the deck is delightful.

A quick portion of a Waldorf salad made - chopped apples, grapes, celery, walnuts folded into some yogurt and sour cream.

Will not be concerned of what to eat for lunch or this evening as I welcome October.

A weekend of Happiness, Health, Safety and Peace is sent out over the miles to you!!