Author: inkspeare

Farmhouse Project: The Front Steps

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The long list continues to be tackled one item at a time as time and money allows, and with the help of the Lord. This project has been waiting for a while, mostly because we were not sure of what to do with the steps, and what would be the best economical way to fix them. If you know anything about construction or masonry, you will know that this type of work is very expensive, and we did not want to spend a lot on these steps that were functional but needed some help. My husband came up with a good solution, as well as under budget.

When we first bought the old farmhouse, the steps were broken as well as the entire porch, so we decided to patch things up as best as possible and paint them. For the purpose of this post, I will share the steps/porch from the beginning so the reader can appreciate the development so far. Most important is that we are happy with the results, and I think that my husband did a great job at it. I did not work directly on this particular last project, only appreciated the process and took pictures.

Here is a photo of the early days, as it was when we bought the derelict farmhouse.

The porch and steps of the old farmhouse, as it was when we bought it. The cement was broken, well, everything was. (Photo by M.A.D.)

In order to move things along the way, we fixed the porch and steps as best we could and painted them. Here is a picture of what we did in the meantime.

We knew that we needed a more permanent solution, eventually. Here is where we are today, and the process my husband followed to level the steps and build new steps.

First, he measured and built the steps using cement, and tiles that we had bought from a builder but did not use in the house remodel. (Photo by M.A.D.)

This is what the steps look like once the cement has cured. The steps are thick and heavy.

He measured, leveled, and filled the old steps in order to place the new ones.

The final result. Eventually, we will have to fix the porch floor by adding slate, but that is another project in its own time.

In the meantime, I was admiring a gigantic but beautiful slug that I saw by the side entrance. The next project will be fixing that area a bit better.

I hope that you enjoyed this project and became inspired with a little DIY.

Love and light.

We Are a People …

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We are a People…

We are a people of strength,

because we are a people of faith.

We are a people of courage,

our faith rests in the Lord.

*

We are a people of kindness,

our love comes from above.

We are a people of joy.

In God we trust alone.

*

In good times, in bad times,

we are a people of soul.

For when darkness clouds our day,

It is He who restores our soul.

A Colorful Car Show

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This is mostly a fun post, and one that lovers of classic cars might enjoy. Chatham’s August Car Cruise-In took place this past Saturday; an event that our community enjoys very much. Car enthusiasts and lovers come from many areas to enjoy this show. It takes place monthly during the summer. Main street is closed at some points, and people can enjoy an afternoon and early evening looking at these beauties as well as enjoy some delicious food from vendors. My husband, being a mechanic, was in heaven, and I as well; as a child I opted to play with cars over dolls. I took tons of photos; however, I will share a few of my favorites, but because I could not download them from my phone for some reason, I will be posting a picture from a picture, hence why these might not be as clear. I hope that you, fellow car lovers, enjoy these. Cars as the eye can see …

Engine Roar

It was very hard to pick a favorite among all these gorgeous cars, but one stood out.

My favorite of all.

And if I had to choose a favorite engine as well, it is this one.

My favorite engine.

Hope that you enjoyed this post and photos.

A Few “New” Books in My Library

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I always keep an eye for new additions to my library, especially, if I am at an antique shop or a similar place where books are not a merchandise priority. I found a few old books at a Habitat for Humanity Re-store. It is a place that mesmerizes me because it is never the same, and there is not telling what you might find. If you are into giving materials a second chance, especially construction and home materials, you might like this place. The proceeds help in the construction of affordable homes for people via volunteers.

I am at the point where I don’t add too many books, just one here and there that will get my attention and cannot be resisted by many reasons: price, subject matter, or just appeal. At the Habitat for Humanity Re-store, I found three books that I could not let go even when I said that I am trying to make a dent on what’s on my shelves already. Besides, at fifty cents each I could not resist.

A Writer’s Reference by Diana Hacker/Nancy Sommers. Instructor edition, 7th edition.

Herbert presents, A Writer’s Reference 7th edition by Diana Hacker/Nancy Sommers (Photo by M.A.D.)

This one, I purchased for practical reasons. It is an instructor edition. It is divided by subject tabs: composing and revising, sentence style, word choice, and much more. It seems to be a free copy for instructors. As a writer, I will benefit from its content.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Herbert presents, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. 1937

The second book I found is a 1937 copy published by Random House, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. It is a first printing by this publisher. This book was banned at some point, still banned today in some school districts due to many reasons such as misrepresentation of ethnic groups, language … It is in very good condition with yellowing of the pages, might be missing a dust jacket, but otherwise intact. How could I resist?

Better Than Gold, edited by Clinton T. Howell, third printing 1972

Better Than Gold, edited by Clinton T. Howell, third edition 1972. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Better Than Gold, edited by Clinton T. Howell, third edition 1972. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Better Than Gold, edited by Clinton T. Howell, third edition 1972. (Photo by M.A.D.)

The third selection is unusual, and what attracted me to it was its cover and title – Better Than Gold, edited by Clinton T. Howell, third edition 1972. It is bound in leather with a golden ribbon, and gilded lettering; overall, just gorgeous. Its pages and overall presentation are just divine. It contains a collection of poems and writings on various topics such as advice, age, death, faith, friendship, happiness, and much more. It is an inspirational book. Its pages were made to look aged and can only get better with the passing of time. The typography and design of the pages, including images of old English woodcuts, is breathtaking for sure. I am truly going to enjoy reading this one and turning its pages. Perfect read for the coming autumn.

When I collect a book, I don’t focus so much on monetary or future resale value from a collector’s point of view. Instead, its subject or title has to ring a bell, and be visually attractive as well. In the case of A Writer’s Reference, it was purely practical for me because writing is what I do, and that is one reference area that keeps growing and expanding in my library. The rest is purely a passion and a delight.

Critters and Veggies

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The garden just started to give its loveliness; we had a late start, but this autumn seems promising. Lettuce is all done by now, and so are the potatoes, and the blueberries. Carrots are on the way. We are awaiting the ripening of the grapes, but the deer have been busy around the vine. (Photo by M.A.D.)
The hummingbirds have been very busy this year. Since moving here, this is the year when I have seen more of them feeding. That is just wonderful. (Photo by M.A.D.)
The tail end of a black snake on the porch. One thing I have learned since I moved here is to look before I step outside. On one occasion, as I was stepping outside by the side entrance, I almost got rammed by a leaping deer running from barking dogs I heard at a distance. His companion followed. It missed me by a few inches. The scared couple flew through the air. I thank God that I did not step out a second before. (Photo by M.A.D.)
And here is the black beauty going about her day. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Mama Turkey and her darlings made another visit. They have grown fast, and now they are less likely to follow her in a straight line. They are adorable. (Photo by M.A.D.)
And of course, my lovely crows, for whom I named this place “Black Crow Cottage.” I have observed different families raising the babies this year (at least three families, that I could tell apart by the size of the babies). They have been nesting nearby in the back woods. At times, the families are near to each other teaching the babies how to forage for food. In this picture you can see Mama Crow to the left; she is larger. (Photo by M.A.D.)

Hope you enjoy the images.

Love and Light.

At that Age

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photo by Maria Antonia Diaz

I find myself at “that age,” when I finally feel that a bridge has been crossed, and the perspective from the other side of the bridge is very different from the side left behind. I can surely say that life takes a different meaning from that point of view. The things I wanted then are very different from the things I want now. One of “those things” that I have learned is to stop trying to “fix” people. What I thought in my younger years that people needed to hear, was not necessarily what needed to be said. Advice should not be given unless it is requested. Pretending to know what people need in their lives, how they should live or fix their problems, even when it is meant with a good heart, is wrong, especially when the advice isn’t requested. When we are young, we want to change the world and we might take that feeling and desire and translate it to offering wisdom from our “fresh” point of view, especially when the person is happy and satisfied with how a life is being lived. Why assume another person’s life is broken? Because it is not suitable to our standards? Why assume that our way is the only way, and the other person needs anything from us to be fulfilled, not left behind? Why “fix” their existence?

With age comes maturity. Many steps have been taken and the soles of one’s shoes are worn enough. I’ve stopped giving advice that is not solicited. I’ve stopped thinking that I have the right answer. I’ve learned that there is no need to prove a point, unless someone asks for my opinion. I’ve learned to love and shut up, to enjoy my way while accepting other people’s right to live their way without harming others, even when I don’t share their opinion of how they handle situations. There is a modern say, “You do you.” In a way, I understand it. It is not to say that I don’t care about what goes on, consequences, moral issues, the illnesses of a society … all of that is real, and needs to be addressed, first, in our life and circle, then by supporting the agencies that fight against the injustices and crimes committed in society, however, that is another subject, and very different from the topic of this article.

Crossing the bridge gave me a sense of peace and understanding of having been once at the other side. With peace comes understanding, with understanding, acceptance, with acceptance comes the realization that what I thought was good for me is not necessarily good for another in their own journey. Although many suggestions and opinions come from a place of love and genuine concern; however, it is not a “one fits all” reality. I might be hot-tempered at times, maybe somewhat opinionated, still dreaming of a better world, but no longer do I give or take unsolicited advice. The bridge has been crossed.

“Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye but do not notice the log that is in your own eye.”

Matthew 7:3 ESV

What I Am Reading Now – Endless Universe

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Herbert presents Endless Universe by Paul J. Steinhardt and Neil Turok (Photo by M.A.D.)

I have been trying to make a dent on the backlog of books on my bookshelf. It is time for me to read Endless Universe by Paul J. Steinhardt and Neil Turok. I have meant to read this book for quite some time. I am sure that by now, there have been new developments on the Cyclic Theory, but I am going to read it. The book was written by two cosmologists, and it is about the discussion of a new theory of the origin of the universe. New theory back then, when the book was written, that is.

So, why is a Christian reading this book? Short answer: It is not going to make me less of a Christian by reading it (not contagious like chicken pox). Long answer: Although I believe that God created Heavens and Earth, this topic has always fascinated me, so from time to time I read something related to it. I don’t need proof of anything, my faith rests in the Lord. If anything, reading has strengthened my faith throughout the years. So far, this one seems interesting enough to capture my attention.

By the end of the year, I hope to have make a significant dent on the pile of books. I find that having this pile prevents me from enjoying other books that are new releases, unless it is something that I must read now. It is like a cloud that hangs over my head, so I am making the effort to reduce it a bit more. I know that there is always going to be somewhat of a small pile waiting for me, because who can resist a good book when you see one? I prefer to hold a book on my hand when I read. I tried to get used to electronic format and ended up hating it. Simply, it is not for me; Herbert would understand.

Farmhouse Project Update

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Finally, the stump of the old tree that was taken down is being honored. I felt so sad when I had to get rid of the very old tree. It was a liability and dangerously close to the house; besides, it was showing signs of disease. But the tree refused to go down; it came to life again. I thought of a way in which to make us both happy.

I trimmed its new branches. My husband built a replica of the farmhouse, and we placed it atop the trunk. He decided to paint the window trim blue as well. Our window trim is white, but we thought it would look better that way. The inside painted in yellow suggests that the lights are on. We added a few woodland critters, a welcome sign, a mailbox, and sitting arrangement on the porch. I recycled those miniatures from the faerie garden. I think he did a great job and I love it. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Side view. All materials, with the exception of the gray paint and clear coat, are recycled. We want to build or paint a faerie door on the trunk. (Photo by M.A.D.)
We added a color changing spotlight. I took this picture from indoors through the window glass at night (too many night crawlers around). The rosebush gives a nice touch to it. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Same view during the day. (Photo by M.A.D.)

This is a project that we had scheduled for some time this year. The original plan was to add faerie lights and a Clematis plant or a type of vine to the trunk; however, we thought that a spotlight would be better, and the tree branches that grew again took the place of the Clematis plant. Hope you enjoy reading about this project.

UPDATE

My husband finished the faerie door. All materials used are recycled. I think he did an awesome job. Love it!

Faerie door using recycled materials. Photo by M.A.D.

The Life that We Dream

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“I’m standing here in summer sun, where rabbits hide, and small quail run… I listen to the prairie’s song in every breeze that comes along.” – Betty Lou Hebert, “Prairie Gentian.”

In our youth, we imagine life turning out a certain way; we are full of dreams and less experienced. We set out to conquer the world. As we mature, experiences, good and bad, have placed some weight on us, influenced our desires and dreams, and our footsteps hold firmly to the ground. Steps become steadier and more careful, less rushed, and bit more planned. Some of us find ourselves living the life we dreamed, while some of us might not, and others might be half-way there. For many of us, the life that we dreamed once might not be the life that we want to live now. Whatever the case might be, dreams remain. The adage, “When you stop dreaming you stop living,” might have a bit of truth.

From small dreams to larger dreams, it all seems to propel us forward in life, whether we want a fancy life or a simpler life. There are setbacks, new dreams, and things don’t always turn out the way we dreamed or planned for, but this doesn’t diminish the preciousness of life, and each day presents a new opportunity to dream again; each day, an opportunity to do a bit better than we did yesterday. After all, and on the way to a dream, we become our own judges, that is, in relation to our dreams in life.

What does a 90-year-old person dreams of? Maybe what we all seem to take for granted – to enjoy another day. What does a person with a terminal illness dreams of? Maybe for one more day amongst friends and loved ones. A person contemplating suicide? Perhaps for a better day, each day. In the end, no matter what one’s dreams were about or how these turned out, we seem to ask for one more day. In perspective, that is all we have, one day at a time.

Photo by M.A.D.

Around the Garden

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The beauty that a garden gives in a few pictures.

Isn’t he gorgeous? (Photo by M.A.D.)
This year mushrooms grew everywhere, especially in the faerie garden. These are huge. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Size comparison. Unfortunately, these mushrooms decompose very fast, and they smell like a rotten corpse. Bees, flies, and ants are attracted to it. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Two decomposing stinky mushrooms. They will melt and disappear. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Pretty colorful ones too. (Photo by M.A.D.)
Mama Turkey and her adorable babies stopped by. Could not get a clear picture as they moved fast. (Photo by M.A.D.)
The blessing of early Mums. (Photo by M.A.D.)

All little things that make me stop and smile. Hope you enjoyed the pictures.

Love and Light.