A Special Guest Blogger!!

With everything being so busy around here with coming home from CHA, teaching, demo-ing, getting ready for a Florida trip to do some Fiskars Certified Demonstrators Training, enjoying my mother on her vacation here with me, and getting ready to run out the door tomorrow morning with Sudie to CKC in Charlotte...I haven't had time to Blog like I should. Sorry guys.

I've asked a very special person to me and has been a big influence on my creativity through the years. I'd like to introduce you to Mikki, my mother.

Mom is one of the most creative people I know. She can quilt, crochet, knit, embroidery, decorate cakes, cook...or can she cook, sew, upholstery, paint on and on. So I've asked Mom to write about her trip to Charleston from Monday and Tuesday. This was her first trip to Charleston and the first time she was able to put her foot in the Atlantic Ocean. The photos of her are great. Sit back and enjoy my Mom!

Charleston Wonderland

My granddaughter, Tabitha, gave me the most wonderful birthday present; two days in Charleston, SC.

The first day we toured the historical district via horse drawn carriage with frequent stops along the route. Our guide was well informed of the district’s history and answered questions for us with enthusiasm along the way. The pre- and post civil homes were more beautiful than words can describe. Each had its own characteristic and personality. Although, some needed a little TLC they brought tears to my eyes due to their opulence and beauty.

We also strolled along the tree lined walkways of the waterfront park with the beautiful fountains, which were filled with children taking a respite from the heat.

The afternoon was spent on the Isle of Palms, where we had access to a beautiful beach house in a gated community with a private beach. I played in the ocean, collected shells as if I was a young girl. We sat in rocking chairs on the porch, enjoying the breeze, along with the sites and sounds of the ocean. This was a delightful and relaxing time.

The second day we toured the Magnolia Plantation which was a special treat for me as I am an early American enthusiast. Albeit, there were many places and things to see, the Plantation Home was my favorite. The beautiful old historic building was so alive with the past, my imagination ran ramped. As a quilter, the old quilts were of special interest to me. Too bad we could not take photos, however I did find a booklet in the gift shop that had pictures. I would love to have the patterns!!

Although, this is some the things we enjoyed together, I must mention the low country food which was incredibly delicious. One of my favorites was the “Shrimp and Grits” served at the Hominy Grill, a little out of the way diner loaded with atmosphere and character. The crab cakes from the Mustard Seed diner were also delicious; however the “Hummingbird Cake” is truly a culinary delight. All you hummingbird lovers out there don’t panic; it is not made with hummingbirds. The serving portion was so huge it took three days to eat it all.

Thanks Tabby, for an incredible awesome 70th birthday present.I love you Tabitha.....Grandma

Thanks Mom for being a big help and welcome to the world of Blogging! I'll post again of my adventures this weekend on Sunday or Monday along with our August Debby's Dare!!!

Gratitude List:

1. Respect, hope, unwavering love

2. Computers (I love mine :}

3. Memories to scrap

4. Mom and Tabby

5. The Father's love toward us the the response He evokes in each of us toward that love.