Friday, July 31, 2009

...black tot...


Hello. We made our second attempt in one week to walk the park without incident and it's going to take some time. Between the nipper, the enlarged heart boy and the white tot we tend to go in three directions. This will improve with more discipline and patience but boy, is Max missed. I am under the gun with those Roman Shades but will have them finished by tonight I predict. They are, as I already told you, for a nursery and not the kind that grows trees and shrubs. It is for a little tot's room and he/she will arrive momentarily. I am not usually a fan of air conditioning but it has been necessary these past few days here in Chester County, PA. At dinner the other night, eating outside in the thick air, JB erroneously picked up a bottle of Rum instead of Vodka and after several sips declared the Vodka to be unsatisfactory. We solved that crime and immediately got her back on track which reminds me... this day in 1970 was the last day of the officially sanctioned rum ration in the Royal Navy, officially titled Black Tot Day. Did my blog title make you think that Brad and Angelina made another trip? Other important news. Lindsay Lohan bleached her hair blonde. Huh? What? Who cares? Not me but mentioning Rum and Vodka made me think of her. Back to the workroom for me now. Have a great day. Eat, drink and be merry. Today's photo is for the birds.
"Among the expected glories of the Constitution, next to the abolition of Slavery was that of Rum." George Clymer

Thursday, July 30, 2009

...man in the moon...

Hello. Last evening we ate outside even tho' the rain was falling lightly in Chester County, PA. Hero that I am, I turned the outdoor umbrella a few degrees as one of the guests was getting dripped on. That slight turn caused everyone else, except for me, to get wet. Ooops. We viewed the moon which was a little larger than a crescent as GD passed the Brie Cheese. Years ago people believed that the moon was made of Swiss Cheese and their argument seemed like a low fat and sound one. Here is the argument. The Moon, like Swiss Cheese, has apparent holes in it, is sometimes yellow and can appear to be shiny at times. On this day in 1971 David Scott and James Irwin on the Apollo Lunar module called 'Falcon', landed on the moon with the first Lunar Rover. Very similar to the Range Rover, the men ordered it in Santorini Metallic Black with Ivory seats and Jet carpeting. Once on the moon it was quickly determined not to be made of Swiss Cheese. The Apollo then left the moon, returned to earth and the two men made immediate appointments at their Dentist's office. "Fly Me To The Moon" please. Anyway, back to my stellar evening...after a few rigorous games of Ping Pong and Pool it was time to end the night. I came home and found another few chair suggestions in the French Country vein with rush seats and then hit the hay. A sweet website client is playing a game regarding those dastardly Songbird Needlepoint Pillows and has decided to claim that she never received them. UPS was kind enough to forward the information proving that her claim is full of holes and I will persevere because no one likes a sneak. I am happy to donate to causes that I believe in, like the Mazzoni Center, Habitat for Humanity, and the National Martini Foundation, ( no website available, yet,) but I don't play the sneak game. As Jackie Gleason of the 'Honeymooners' would say, 'To the moon with you Alice!" But no Range Rover included. The binder just called and a few of the area rugs are ready and will be delivered on Tuesday. That will make many feet on Valley Forge Mountain happy indeed. Have a great day, try to remain free of unfortunates and fly.
"A liar should have a good memory." Quintilian

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

...end of days...


Hello. The Roman Shades are in process which should make an expecting Mom very happy as they will provide privacy and absorb some of the sounds that are emitted from a newborn. The beginning of another life. Last night we went to the theatre to watch 'End Days', a play that studies extremes in Religion, science and emotional states of mind and was quite compelling at times. At other times, not so much. The Born again Mom was awaiting the Rapture while Goth daughter and her Elvis impersonator friend craved Reuben Sandwiches. I am not rushing the End Of Days but this I can tell you. I will hopefully not be left behind but if I am there will be damp clothes in the dryer that I can attend to. Interestingly there are a few days in History that somewhat marked the end of days in other ways. On this day in 1921, Adolf Hitler became leader of the National Socialist German Workers Party. We all know what that brought on. On this day in 1965 the first 4,000 paratroopers arrived in Vietnam. On this day in 1976 in New York City, the 'Son of Sam' killed one person and seriously wounded another in the first of a series of attacks. Can I get any more upbeat? I guess my point is, even sitting through an 'interesting' play and wondering if it was going to be the end of my days...it is so very important to keep positive and try to enjoy the days that we have. July 2009 is almost ended and, as far as I can tell, the Summer is flying. Roman Shades and Breakfast Room Tables aside, let's enjoy our days as best as we can. We never know when our 'end of days' will arrive. Today's 'rendering' is a Relaxed Bottom Roman Shade. Keep the puns to yourself.

"I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end." Gilda Radner

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

...decisions, decisions...


Greetings. How many decisions to you think that the average human adult has to make on any given day? Right now you are probably deciding whether or not it is worth your time to estimate. If you have reached a general number, how many of those decisions do you think are good and valid ones? There are several ways in which we make decisions: intuition, calculation and coherence. Basically, and I decided to really edit this, we make decisions by either an emotion-based intuitive manner, by a practical pro and con manner and/or by fitting together explanation, deduction, facilitation and association. I personally mix all of these depending on the circumstances and do my best to make a sound decision. Yesterday I delivered a window treatment and since the weather was beautiful I took the boys, who spent some time gazing into a man made fish pond. They loved it. We then hung out with ex-neighbors who have since moved to Atlanta and had a great time. I followed up on the breakfast table and chairs plan and decided that, rather than waiting on a back ordered sample, I would see what I could do to expedite the wood finish sample and found another source for that piece. Many small decisions, nothing too profound, but daily life requires a lot of decision making and thought. On this day in 1965 U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson announced his order to increase the number of United States troops in South Vietnam from 75,000 to 125,000. My ordering a wood finish sample was not life or death, but I do want the client to be happy with her new furniture. Once my visitors left and I finished the laundry and walked the boys one last time it was about 10:30. I thought that a little Martini would be a good night cap and then thought better of it and decided to skip having one. We all make many, many decisions every day and whether we work better by emotion, calculation, coherence or a combination of all it may work to our advantage to ask for guidance from up there too. It couldn't hurt. Have a great day. Oh, a solicitor with a pamphlet is approaching my front door. I need to run upstairs to the top level with a bucket of ice water and greet him from an open window! Wait. Should I or shouldn't I? I can't decide. Oh, what the hell...
Today's photo are those Rush seat chairs. Available in both side and arm styles it makes sense to do both. All decisions should be so easy!
"Decide that you want it more than you are afraid of it." Bill Cosby

Saturday, July 25, 2009

...his name was Rico...


Hello. I am blogging to apologize for yesterday's blog. Several people have emailed me telling me that they cannot get 'Copacabana' out of their heads and for that I truly apologize. Some songs have a strong yet simple contagious melody containing more hooks than a brothel in Alabama and it happens. I did a little Google search resulting from inquiries concerning Rico, who wore that infamous diamond and here is what I have learned. He remained at the Copa for many years, tending bar and continuing his workouts. The song made the Copacabana Bar even more popular and his tips grew. Many came simply to touch his 'diamond' which pissed Lola off to no end. Saving the bar cash he then segued his renown into a jewelery store in Brooklyn calling it 'Rico's Rocks' which was a mild success. Not realizing how competitive and cut throat that industry was he closed and is now operating a car wash on Long Island. Hopefully this short post will assist you in getting that song out of your heads. Have a great day. By the way, on this day in 1970 Karen and Richard Carpenter had their first smash hit as "(They Long to Be) Close to You" reached #1 and remained at the top of Billboard's Hot 100 for weeks. Do you remember how that recording went? A song with a simple but contagious melody containing more hooks than a tackle shop in Maine. hehehehe...

Friday, July 24, 2009

...her name is Lola...


Greetings. It is overcast and grey here in Chester County, PA today. The boys are rambunctious and I don't blame them. We are heading toward the end of July and this Summer is flying. Speaking of flying, Buzz Aldrin yesterday, in the Chicago Tribune stated that his favorite singers are Karen Carpenter and Frank Sinatra. The man has good taste in vocalists.This week Aldrin is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing while at the same time promoting his new book "Magnificent Desolation." The second man ever to walk on the moon says he is on a mission to get the younger generation interested in space exploration. That's why he recorded a space-themed rap song with Snoop Dogg. I think it's good when a pop figure reaches out to teach, but that depends of course on what they are planning on teaching. Kudos to him for recording a 'rap' with Snoop but I probably won't rush to download it, personally. I found yet more tables and chairs for a client yesterday and think, quite possibly, that if I went into the woods with a small knife I could whittle a table and eight chairs in less time but, you know. Last evening I met with JD who moved into their refurbished and beautiful home a few days ago. Ready to give birth in seven days while also running a household and caring for her adorable one year old daughter while moving is a feat unto itself. Yet she remained upbeat, clever and smiling through our entire visit. Vaseline on the teeth everyone. Retain that showgirl smile. We chose fabric for Roman Shades and the window treatments will really pull the rooms together. On this day in 1956 at New York City's Copacabana Club, ( supposedly the hottest spot north of Havana) Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis performed their last comedy show together. They began performing together on July 25, 1946. This venue was the inspiration for Barry Manilow's hit 'Copacabana'. Please pass the cheese. I still want to know if Lola was a 'real' girl but whatever. The song went Top 5 and Mr. Manilow laughed all the way to the electronically wired cash transfer. Have a great day, sit there so refined and teach the children well. In honor of Barry today's photo is 'Brooklyn Storage Trunks', perfect for feather boa's, vinyl albums and other contraband that is best kept out of sight.
"If you obey all the rules you miss all the fun." Katherine Hepburn

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

...cuts like a knife...


Hello. I ordered everything that I needed to yesterday and also got those scale plans finished and emailed them to a client who is somewhat far away. It is hard for many people to visualize items in a certain square footage area, so my computer program does it easily, (with a little 'cutting' and pasting') and then it is off into the ether world for approval. In this situation, I have to fit in a breakfast room table that can seat eight in a long, narrow space between a bar and bay window. I think that I did it and the only thing that I don't have incorporated into the planning system are those adorable little Wii characters. It would be a hoot to do that. Then those who are visually challenged can see themselves in their own little virtual room doing their thing. Not in a bedroom of course! We had T-Bone steaks last night and LaLa had a bit of trouble cutting them even with a sharp serrated knife. Some people have no problem with this type of utensil but we got the job done. Interestingly, on this day in 1994 O. J. Simpson pleaded "Absolutely 100% Not Guilty" of murder. I was one of the few who did not follow this train wreck of pop culture from the onset. Maybe it is because, aside from the Lexus and Mercedes, I don't think that white makes for a good vehicle color choice. I understand that the color white deflects the sun in warmer climates but geez. Use that air conditioner. Besides, if I want to watch a car chase I will rent ' Fast and Furious'. Some may know what I mean. Anyway, have a great day...keep the sharp utensils out of children's and oddballs hands and have fun. Today's photo is 'Nantucket Weathered Wood Chair'.
"I didn't beat her. I just pushed her out of bed." O. J. Simpson

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

...in perpetuity(fame whore)...


Hello. Is everyone feeling like a star this morning? I hope so. I hope that everyone has at least one living creature that let's them know they are of value. No matter how misanthropic one can get, I truly believe that we need validation on this earth. Maybe not always from humans, but a connection nevertheless. The plan was to go tubing yesterday with friends and the boys but plans change. We had local fun anyway. I found a reclaimed wood table for a client and then JF came over for dinner. She phoned her M and then her D and, as she had placed the phone on 'speaker', the undeniable glee in each of her parent's voices made it crystal clear that they loved receiving a call from her. Maybe we could all take a hint from JF and 'reach out and touch someone'. Hmmm. I should contact Verizon and see if they need a catch phrase. Huh? Been there, did what? Whatever. Some folks, as we know, live for the spotlight. Self involved, maybe. Narcissistic? Possibly. Pop culture just had a run of young Hollywood starlets exiting taxicabs and limousines with the obvious intention of being photographed. Some had 'forgotten' their Hanes. This attention starved behavior is not a new thing tho'. As far back as on this day in 356 BC, ( The Rolling Stones were on the charts with 'Sticky Fingers') Herostratus, a young man, set fire to the Temple of Artemis in what is now western Turkey in his desire for fame. The temple was constructed of marble and considered the most beautiful of some thirty shrines. The temple was also one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a little under 500 feet long, supported by columns sixty feet high.
Herostratus never tried to hide from his act of arson because he wanted to be immortalised in history. Ephesean authorities not only executed him but also condemned him to a legacy of obscurity by forbidding the mention of his name under the penalty of death. Yikes. I hope they don't read my blog! He did however, wear underwear while setting fire to the marble edifice. I'm not sure if it was Hanes because his privates were somewhat singed.
In this somewhat self involved, 'all about me' era, let's not lose the importance of having contact with others. I mean, contact in a good way. No slapping or pinching. Have a good day, demand respect and importantly, show others the same. Unless of course they are total as*holes. Then I suggest ignoring them so that their actions don't also live in perpetuity.
"Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful." John Wooden

Monday, July 20, 2009

...diamonds, stones...


Hello. I'm sure you have heard the saying 'Some days are diamonds, some days are stones." Personally I think that days have a combination of both. And no offense to diamonds but, if I were building a stone house the latter would be much more sensible. A ring on the other 'hand'... Friday we went to the Epicurean and caught up and had fun. My Saturday was a great day. The shop was fun and HB paid me a visit and looks mahvelous. Job stress must agree with her. The I went to the area rug client and they had dogs!!! so I felt at home immediately. The couple are kind, tasteful and no-nonsense; the type of persons that make decisions together, respectful of each other and in tune with the value of time. Henry Ford knew the value of time and on this day in 1903, his Ford Motor Company shipped its first car. Joan Rivers had just turned 16 and was one of the first to buy one. That was a diamond day for Ford and many others. Saturday night was another pool party and the weather was perfect. Sunday after blessedly avoiding house cleaning we opted for another outdoor party with fireworks and child safe pop thingies that smell like the caps that I used to play with in days gone by. Another 'time'ly introduction to our growing country happened on this day in 1921 as Air Mail service began between New York City and San Francisco. Well, someone had to speed up the giving and receiving of those party invitations! Diamonds. Love don't come for free. On this day in 1933 two-hundred Jewish merchants were arrested in Nuremberg and paraded through the streets. Ironically, on this day in 1944 a bastard named Adolf Hitler survived an assassination attempt led by German Army Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg. If you refer to a German-English dictionary, 'Stauffenberg' loosely translates to 'you missed you stupid f*ck'. Back to diamonds. On this day in 1976 Hank Aaron hit his 755th home run, the final home run of his career. I am supposed to go tubing today with the 'boys' but may have to postpone unless I can get P to get a few more cough pills down his throat. It doesn't seem right to leave him behind and we don't hurt the feelings of those we love. Those Max feelings come flooding back. On this day in 1977, Johnstown was hit by a flash flood that killed eighty people and caused $350 million in damages. Mother Nature can be a real b*tch, y'all! I now have to write up work orders for area rugs and runners so I wish everyone a day of diamonds and stones. The good kind. Of both. 'French Blue Demilune Table' shown today. Prepare yourselves for the Solar Eclipse tomorrow. Sunglasses optional?
"Colleges are places where pebbles are polished and diamonds are dimmed." Robert Green Ingersoll
Solar Eclipse: New Moon Cancer Anna Swora ~ Astrological Counselor Solar Eclipses are super New Moons, signaling the end of one major cycle and the beginning of the next. An eclipse is a forerunner to change. When it falls on a personal point in the chart it can activate spiritual or soulful processes and move us from one era of experience to another for evolutionary growth. The New Moon signals preparation for a new cycle and from there an increase of energy flows as we become more receptive to new ideas and initiating new projects. This lunation is very positive in nature and from the New Moon to the Full Moon, the Moon is "increasing" in light. If it aspects a planet in your astrological chart, you'll experience a sense of rejuvenation and renewed spirit relating to the nature of the planet. The various issues of the house where the New Moon falls absorb your attention….there are new beginnings and exciting new possibilities. A Solar Eclipse is about being refueled, planting new seeds, reaching outward and striving toward new experiences.
More specifically, New Moons initiate activities, but this one is a total solar eclipse which suggests that some old beliefs need to be jettisoned before new ones can emerge. What to let go of? ~ Anxiety and fear of the unknown and how we feel this in our bodies ~ Allowing for the “surprises of life” to energize and create new opportunities rather than wanting to control that which we cannot ~ Being with uncomfortable feelings and not numbing them with various addictions…..as we nurture ourselves, we nurture others.

Friday, July 17, 2009

...sticks nix hick pix...


Hi. Beauty day was a success. I'd post photos but all of that glamour may pose a threat to your laptops. I received more Wilton samples yesterday and then searched hi and lo for a wallpaper to match early 1950's blue/green bathroom tile. I accomplished this feat and figure it was an easier day than the groomer had. LaLa's birthday was yesterday so last evening we hung out and had dinner and a great time. It was supposed to rain but held off thankfully so that we got to stay outside. On this day in 1942 some Pennsylvanians were not so lucky as 3' of rain fell, killing 15. It must have looked odd as 3' of water came crashing down. Huh? LM leaves today for her nieces wedding. White lace and promises! It seems like Only Yesterday she was a 19 year old girl. Oh, wait. It was only yesterday! Pictured today is a tufted cocktail ottoman with caster legs. I am having one made in a huge 4' square for NLO but will skip the casters. We don't want it to be used as a vehicle, taking out family members and guests. "Watch out Aunt Hermoine! Here we come!" The sun is shining and the house is relatively quiet. I love summer mornings. I love spring, autumn and winter mornings also so why make that statement? Huh? Anyway, on this day in 1935, Variety Magazine ran the headline STICKS NIX HICK PIX which became one of the most famous headlines ever to appear in an American publication. The article spoke of the reaction of rural audiences to movies about rural life. "Sticks Nix Hick Pix" meant that people in rural areas (sticks") reject ("nix") motion pictures ("pix") about rural life ("hicks"). The conventional wisdom of the movie industry was that themes of upper-class life would not be popular in the countryside; according to the article, this assumption was incorrect. Stevie Nicks was unavailable for comment. Huh? Have a beauty on the inside kind of day and if it makes you glamorous on the outside, that's fine too. Not that it matters all that much. But don't tell the 'boys' I said that!
"I like a woman with a head on her shoulders. I hate necks." Steve Martin

Thursday, July 16, 2009

...homey don't play...


Greetings. Today is beauty day for the boys. That should be historic enough for my blog but I'll see what I can come up with. Yesterday I received wool samples from both Masland carpets and from Stark to get those area rugs selected and constructed. I know that it would be easier and less pricey to point one out from a Pottery barn catalog and add my consultation fee, but homey don't play that. I like originality and unique and have never enjoyed feeding the masses. One homey did play a game on this day in 1973 as a former White House aide informed the US Senate that Richard Nixon had secretly recorded potentially incriminating conversations. Oops. Richard Nixon also enjoyed playing leapfrog in the pool with other men, not that there's anything wrong with that. I believe his wife Pat started a dry out clinic. Maybe that was Betty Ford and Pat just dried out. It all becomes a blur with all of these political and pop culture scandals. I have taken friends to clinics but have not played leap frog, not that you asked. I send a shout out to WLK for great things to 'come'. After the gym we power walked again and had the place virtually to ourselves. I say virtually, because in this day and age we never know when we are being filmed for the Internet so I try my best to keep good posture and not pick my nose. Imagine having that on YouTube with the background song being 'Walking After Midnight'. Yikes. That's a 'cute' title. I got more orders via the website for needlepoint pillows. This time it is more of those 'Seaside Themed Needlepoint Pillows'. Get stitching Chiu! It is humid in Chester County, PA today and I see that my neighbor Alice Kravits is low on her 'Final Net' as her hair is not as large as usual. Good luck Alice! The ozone layer here in Kimberton has been slowly diminishing these past few years. Alice moved in a few years ago but I an not making a correlation. Homey don't play that game. Have a great day, keep those secret videos under wraps and be nice. 'L' is for, well it is a new fabric choice for my bordered area rugs if you choose to have one made. I'd better run. Ms. Kravitz is wandering the area with a small instrument in her hand. And I need to pick my nose.
"Anybody who watches three games of football in a row should be declared brain dead." Erma Bombeck

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

...malaise...


Hello. We walked early to avoid terrorizing the neighborhood, so "you're welcome" to all unaffected, and who may have been. One is a real handful but well loved but that pretty much defines myself and many, many people in my world. I have had a handful of people talk to me lately about feeling 'lost' or 'without direction'. These folks are successful, employed, have great friends and family and I ask myself "What's going on?" Malaise is defined as "a feeling of general discomfort or uneasiness" so I find the word appropriate. I think that a Wednesday's Child is full of woe but cannot imagine that everyone born on a Wednesday is screwed emotionally from the first slap on... Maybe it's the sluggish economy in certain areas, maybe it is an age thing or maybe those damned Russians put something in our water!!! Kidding. That crazy thought process ended years ago. Or at least here in the Northeast. On this day in 1979 President Jimmy Carter gave his famous "malaise" speech, where he characterized the greatest threat to the country as "this crisis in the growing doubt about the meaning of our own lives and in the loss of a unity of purpose for our nation." Hmmm. I personally think that prejudice still runs rampant in our country and always has, so not to worry on that account! Ding dong. I UPS'ed out more of those Needlepoint Songbird Pillows and am somewhat glad that the promotion is over. No offense to birds, pillows and needle pointers everywhere but I bought my first home in less time. I await the area rug coordinate samples which, ironically, are of a needlepoint nature. This should be fun. We had dinner at "101" last evening and a drastic change had occurred. Once very upscale, they must now be adjusting to the climate change or whatever, but it is much more casual in nature and in price. Our server was awesome and the food was good and we got to eat outside and enjoyed the beautiful Chester County, PA weather. The boys have a surprise coming tomorrow, thanks to their dear friend EA. They will spend the afternoon at a day spa receiving the 'works'. Teeth, nails, grooming, baths and a deep tissue massage. Kidding about the last part. I think. If they come home with even more attitude I will know. Have a great day with no malaise and if things get 'iffy', sport a pair of Flip Flops with your Armani suit. You may look God awful, but the malaise may just leave your soul.
Monday's child is fair of face,
Tuesday's child is full of grace,
Wednesday's child is full of woe.
Thursday's child has far to go,
Friday's child is loving and giving,
Saturday's child works hard for a living,
But the child who is born on the Sabbath Day
Is bonny and blithe and good and gay. hmmmmm.... so 3-8% of people are born on Sundays?

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

...secrets...


You're keeping it a secret? Nah. Just not sharing all of the information, that's all. In polite society it is almost a requirement. For example, when asked "do you think I need Botox?" my fast reply would be, "Of course not, you look beautiful/handsome." Or, "I decorated my home all by myself, can you tell?" Well, you get the idea. I have never been the kind to intentionally hurt another, so, unless someone comes at me with both barrels, I remain polite and yes, somewhat 'secretive.' This weekend was a full one with the sidewalk sale, dinner parties, a family reunion of which I was the only non-family member, and Diva's *cough* 30th birthday again this year. You should have heard how the partiers turned the children's classic 'Amelia Bedelia' into a torrid X-rated steamer. B and G turned out a great dinner party and outdoor pool party and then J and J did the same on Sunday. Perfect weather, perfect weekend. Even the part where I did some carpet shampooing. "Do these jeans make my butt look fat?" Uhm, "Blue denim and black are always slimming colors." Monday I visited a client and chose a mod green, brown and hot pink contemporary floral for a simple window treatment that won't be so simple when I have finished with it. Boom, boom, POW! Later in the afternoon I took the boys to the park and they frolicked in the creek. Dancing and hopping they were in their glory until their little mud covered bodies all got tearless baths. How handsome! We, (humans only) then did the 5 mi power walk in excellent time. Not that I overindulged this weekend, but I like to burn and keep that old metabolism kicking. I emailed many large round table ideas (one is today's photo) to a client who spends the summer at the beach and am now getting more area rug combinations together for this coming Saturday for someone else. It will be about 6 rugs in total in a common area so blending color, style, texture and scale will be a challenge. I love to be challenged! I hate when something is too easy. *clears throat* "Yes, those jeans do make your butt look fat", in other words. On this day in 2003, the U.S. Government admitted to the existence of "Area 51". The intense secrecy surrounding the base, the very existence of which the U.S. government barely acknowledged, had led it to become the frequent subject of conspiracy theories and a central component to UFO folklore. The following day they admitted to Heinz 57. Lala is up from Orlando so we have been trying to spend time together but the days just seem to fly. Maybe I am showing my age. (This is where you reply, "You don't look a day older than 60!" .smirk. I don't even feel the 5 mi power walks anymore and think it is time to kick it up to 10. Tick tock. The first album that I ever bought was by Carly Simon, entitled "No Secrets'. It had "The Carter Family", "No Secrets" and of course, "You're So Vain". I remember the album cover well as she appeared bra less, subtly addressing the album title. I still listen to that classic album to this day, but not on vinyl. 8 track. Kidding. Have a great day, keep your guard up while remaining class acts if some one's butt does look big, try to keep it your secret.
"Celebrity and secrets don't go together. The bastards will get you in the end." George Michael
...'the end' hahaha hehehe hohohoh

Friday, July 10, 2009

...burn baby burn...


Greetings.I spent a good chunk of time yesterday designing a Cocktail Ottoman for a client. It sounds easy but it can be very time consuming not that I'm complaining. I finally found a fire retardant fabric in the correct pattern and texture along with finding one of my vendors who was willing to make it a custom size, height and leg for me. We don't want any hemp to burn that ottoman now do we! I meant candles. Last night we had a great time at dinner, eating, laughing and swinging on a tire. My friend's three children are 6,6 and 7 and love being around me. I cherish that and it gives the Mom and Dad a little break, to boot. You can pick your friends! We had planned on building a bonfire but the evening flew. We will rethink that for Sunday. On this day in 1212 the most severe of several fires in London burned most of the city to the ground. Then on this day in 1913, temperatures in Death Valley, CA hit 134 °F (~56.7 °C), which is the highest temperature recorded in the United States. And then...on this day in 1980 Alexandra Palace was burned down for a second time. This happened just after the beer festival and during the jazz festival and originated under the organ. Must have been a hot tune! My neighbor and I discussed finally getting the tubes out soon and hitting the creek. It is already July 10th, for Heaven Sake and we need to take advantage of the heat. Have a great day and keep cool. Unless you are in a cold climate right now. In that case, burn baby, burn! (you of course know where this link leads). Todays photo is of a 'Lyre Table'.

"Deal with the Devil if the Devil has a constituency - and don't complain about the heat." C.J.Cherryh

Thursday, July 9, 2009

...trainwreck...


Hello. The term train wreck is being used more and more often and means more than an actual 'train wreck'. It is the name of an amplifier repair business and also attaches to many celebrities who's behavior and practices are less than stellar. No need to mention names. It would only disrupt my karma and add readers to my blog by namedropping. That would make me somewhat of a train wreck. The boys have been unusually rambunctious this week and I think I can relate their behavior to the full moon of the 7th. We are in the midst of a Full Buck Moon defined as such because in July the new antlers of buck deer push out of their foreheads in coatings of velvety fur.
Sometimes this moon is called the Full Thunder Moon, because thunderstorms are most frequent during this time. Another name for this month's Moon is the Full Hay Moon. I'm sure you can figure out why. I'd like to be able to accurately call it the Full Train Wreck Moon to coincide with today's entry but that would be wrong. What did happen on this day, in 1918, was the Great Train Wreck of 1918. Thus the name. In Nashville, Tennessee an inbound local train collided with an outbound express killing 101 and injuring 171 people, making it the deadliest rail accident in U.S. history. Meth and Vodka may have had something to do with this but I cannot be sure. Back to other train wrecks and I will go there. But only with initials. The scariest 'train wreck' in history was when BS (notice her initials) had a meltdown, shaved her head and beat a paps vehicle with an umbrella. I chose a screen printed Schumacher paisley wallpaper yesterday and am now on a hunt for a large round formal Dining Table and chairs for a very nice client. I have found five tables so far but may find a few more to make the selection process painful. I meant to say varied. Dinner last evening was great except for one unfortunate soul who needled and needed extra special attention and I finally told this person to F off. Not as classy as I would have liked to be, but the end result was what I had my eye on. Have a great day, take a train ride and think twice about shaving your head. especially with an umbrella in hand.
"I go out with friends, but I don't have time to get in trouble." Britney Spears

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

...calling occupants...


Hello. It is crisp and sunny in Chester County, PA. We are your friends ( please click on the highlighted words) for those of you who are reading this post. For those of you who telepathically gather the information, good for you! Please let me know if spell check works in that realm. On this day in 1947 reports were broadcast that a UFO had crash landed in Roswell, New Mexico. It is alleged that a "flying disc" crashed during a severe thunderstorm near the base at Corona. Not the base of a Corona Beer Bottle tho'. Corona, NM. The investigation and debris recovery was handled by the local Roswell Army Air Field. What do you think? I often wish that I had a flying saucer and some who know me feel that I would fit in nicely with martians. I like to think that there are more inhabitants of this vast universe than just us earthlings. What a waste of a vast universe if this turns out to be the case! Speaking of vast, the rude woman from the pool party never jumped into it, nor did I push her in even tho' I was tempted so the water level was not disturbed. I have had a few 'visits' in my lifetime and believe that there is something more than simply turning to dust when our time is up. I don't share the details with too many as they always seem to ask if I had been tested for drug use during those 'visits'. I keep it to myself and am sure that, with the number of hits I get on this blog alone, that I am not alone in this. Oh yeah, this blog is supposed to be about peddling home fashions so excuse me for a moment while I bore you with key words. Sofa, upholstery fabric, wall decor, Britney Spears undies, framed art. There. Done. Have a great day and if a flying saucer wants to take you for a spin, why not? Today's picture is a martian in a spacecraft needlepoint pillow. Oh wait. No it isn't. It is 'Cat in a Tin Tub Needlepoint Pillow'. My 'vision' must have been off.
"Everyone's quick to blame the alien." Aeschylus

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

...better late...


Hello. It is a clear, cool sunny morning here in Chester County, PA. The needlepoint songbird pillows are on their way to me and it is a 'better late than never' type of thing. I realize that it isn't like being on a waiting list for a body part but still... The weekend was both work and play and we had a great time, swimming, setting off illegal fireworks and that sort of thing. The contraband had been sitting around for quite a long time and luckily for us still had a lot of "oomph". Better late than never, right? Speaking of witch, on this day in 1456 a retrial verdict acquitted Joan of Arc of heresy 25 years after her death. Heresy as we all know, is the rejection of one or more religious beliefs. Check out Jennifer Warnes and Leonard Cohen singing 'Joan of Arc' some time. A brilliant piece, Jennifer plays the part of 'Joan' and Lennie portrays the 'fire' And no, Joan was not married to Noah. Another great piece, and a slice from history began on this day in 1928 when sliced bread was sold for the first time by the Chillicothe Baking Company in Missouri. It was described as “the greatest forward step in the baking industry since bread was wrapped". What were they going to say, 'it is the greatest invention since sliced bread?' I spent the better part of yesterday banding an area rug and am very happy with the results. I need to go fill the bird feeders. Those little buggers have been on a feeding frenzy lately and I hate to disappoint them. Have a great day, don't get burned at the stake and do something kind even if it is long overdue. Better late than never.
"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less." Marie Curie

Saturday, July 4, 2009

...state of independence...


Hello. I finished the drapery job in black and camel yesterday and then met friends for dinner. It was a beautiful evening here in Chester County so we ate outside. Friends came down from Forest Hills and were fun to hang with. New Yorkers have a certain way about them and I know that I am generalizing but so what. They are articulate, worldly, high energy, intelligent and intersting. Maybe that's why on this day in 1827, slavery was abolished in the state of New York. Another guest at the dinner was a slow talking pain in the ass and I wanted desperately to push her into the pool, but that would not have been nice. There is a pool party today and I wasn't sure if there would be time enough to refill it. I made myself independent of her by...leaving her company. Thank goodness for large back yards! Little man coughed a lot yesterday and I did my best to medicate him without overdoing it. He seems a little bit less congested today and I hope, for his sake, it lasts.

OH! Speaking of Independence, and I almost forgot, (yeah, right.) On this day in 1776 the United States Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress. This document announced that the 13 American colonies, then at war with Great Britain, were now independent states, and thus no longer a part of the British Empire. Congress had voted on July 2nd, more than a year after the start of the American Revolutionary War, to declare Independence. The final draft was approved on July 4th, thus the parties and flags blowing all over the place! Have a great day, enjoy your freedoms and be thankful that you live in a State of Independence.

"The precondition to freedom is security". Rand Beers

Thursday, July 2, 2009

...common...


Greetings. I stepped on a shard of metal yesterday and that makes it all the more easy to walk a gaggle of dogs. I know that 'pack' is the proper term, but I didn't want to sound common. I found myself both reprimanding them and counting steps like I used to when I was more obsessive/compulsive than I am now. (Please wait while I count how many letters I have typed so far...) If you are anything like me, and I don't wish compulsive behavior on anyone, you will already know that this is the 182nd day in the year. That means that in this 'common' year, we have 182 to go until the champagne toast. I know that I am kidding no one if I want people to think that I am waiting 182 days to drink some champagne. My technological neighbor and brother-in-law helped me out last evening and I am grateful for them. Nothing common there except for their aptitude. The neighbor that I helped with the indoor moving sale returned the favor yesterday in the form of grooming. I never expected anything in return, as friends help friends unconditionally but I am happy for the gift. Thanks EA! The pool is clean and clear and awaiting hot bodies and battery operated fishes for the weekend. When I said 'hot bodies' I meant due to the temperature. Unless of course, Heidi Klum and her hubby stop by which is highly unlikely as they don't know me. Have a great day and do something uncommon. Perhaps at exactly 12:00 noon drink a glass of champagne. That is the exact midpoint of this year! Pictured are those 'Chateau Wall Clocks' in either Ketchup or Mustard.
"God must love the common man, he made so many of them." Abraham Lincoln

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

..solitairy...


Hello. Today is overcast in Chester County, PA so I may simply tune it out. I have had a couple of weeks where people talk about themselves and it is difficult for anyone else to get a word in edgewise. Have you ever experienced that phenomenon? I know that the full moon will arrive on the 7th of this month but glory be, shut up and listen for a few seconds, would ya! When I joined my new gym and this is now going on three years, another phenomenon was occurring. The music is loud (great), there are about 20 television sets lined across the front of the facility and no one talks. I found this strange as I had just come from a smaller gym when the guys there gossiped more than a bunch of old hens so the change was odd to me but refreshing. May I please finish before you interrupt me??? Oh, sorry. I have been trained to say that recently. Anyway, at my new gym everyone has headphones in their ears. Yes, you did hear me. Along with the loud music and wall of TV sets, people need another barrier to prevent communication, at least by my perspective and observations. Well, it doesn't take me long to get on board. I now walk around with an IPod, even when the thing is off, boldly displaying the headphones stuck into each ear. It is survival of the solitary. I do say hi to a handful of tried and trues, but otherwise...talk to the hand, or better yet, the staff. I am busy and committed. (Or should be...) On this day in 1979, the precursor to the IPodwas introduced by Sony calling it the Walkman. Perhaps you have one in that time capsule stored in your basement? Anyway, FedEx delivered my accessory order last week but got there before the shop opens so felt it necessary to double charge me. I enjoy paying twice, don't you? I wrote a polite letter explaining it and know that they will do the right thing. FedEx and UPS are both class acts. The needlepoint pillow order arrived...the one with the Gilded Songbirds. Well, delighted after having waited all of these weeks I opened the box and to my surprise viewed a bunch of bunny rabbit pillows! Awww, shucks. How cute! But, uhm, they aren't the correct f*ck*ng pillows people!!! The packing slip read correctly but someone must have been packing with an IPod on. I demand that they be placed in solitary confinement for one whole week. Not that they weren't anyway. The black and camel Living/Dining Room order is going without a hitch thus far and I am happy. Oh, shhhh, here comes my lovely neighbor and she can see me typing from outside my window! ( She's the one who had the wine glass in her hand the other morning at around 7am). I am not judging, believe me. But my system can only tolerate a good vodka and OJ at that hour, never a full bodied wine. I need to quickly shut the drapes and put on my IPod. Have a great day! Do your best to talk about yourself, think about yourself and not allow anyone or anything to distract you from being the most self centered person possible. (This suggestion may or may not be a good one.)
"If one is lucky, a solitary fantasy can totally transform one million realities." Maya Angelou