For some reason, I thought there was a single profound quote about little things. Dang, was I wrong! There are oodles of them. I’m not going to barrage you with them, though. Today, after whining and whinging about how hard my life has been lately, I’m going to share some of the little things that have made me smile, laugh, or guffaw!
Nigel…
Nigel and I have been together for over 50 years. We have definitely had our ups and downs, but he makes me laugh, chortle, giggle, and smile all the time. There are times we laugh until we cry because there’s that fine line, ya know? The man also drives me completely bonkers at times, but he is also the one person upon whom I rely. He is my rock.
Home things…
This one is a little hard because I don’t particularly like my house. It’s a rather boring block of a building with little character. If we could have done it, I would have told the builder not to put any woodwork in it at all. Nigel and I are pretty daggone good with wood, nail guns, power saws, and imagination. But, I can dream about and anticipate the things we’re going to do when he can supervise. I don’t like to use the power saws, but I can use that nail gun! I want to change out all the flooring in the house, except for the carpet we had installed a year or so ago. I love that stressful anxiety surrounding picking out the right colors and types and all that jazz. I want to add some different kind of moulding to the living room, but I haven’t made up my mind yet. I also am getting different countertops for the kitchen and a brighter color floor. Since we have one window that kinda looks into the kitchen, it’s very dark. Nigel says we should paint the cabinets (we’ve done two sets now), but these cabinets are gorgeous. It would be a sin to paint the beautiful oak. I think a really light granite, quartz, or whatever countertop (do y’all call them something different) and backsplash will make a lot of difference. Something that reflects the light rather than absorbs it, right? The same with the flooring. I want to tear out almost all of the *cough, cough* luxury (hahaha) vinyl tile in the house and replace it with laminate. Yeah, yeah, I know! LVT or LVP (luxury vinyl plank) is the going thing now, but I like laminate flooring. We had it in our last house, and it was gorgeous. Then, I have got to figure out the shoe situation in my closet. I think I have it figured out. I already have the same size Billy at the other end. So, I’m going to take everything out of there just to see if that’s a feasible option.
Museum…
Friday night, I went to a lecture about a new exhibition of seven works of art by the Pissarro family. The panel consisted of our Associate Curator of European Art, a curatorial assistant (I think for European Art), and another young woman who did a fellowship or internship at the museum and wrote a technical catalog about the Pissarro families. The cool thing is we actually own seven works of art by two generations of this family. The AC asked very good questions, and these two young women (I forgot to mention the curatorial assistant was a young woman) responded quickly, knowledgeably, and impressively. I love to learn, and I’m here to tell you…I learned a lot Friday night. Yesterday, Tuesday, we had a walk through of the exhibition by the curatorial assistant. I’m guessing she’s been eating, breathing, and dreaming this for a year or so because there were no pauses, no goof ups, nothing. She was professional, funny, and just so daggone charming! And, the art…le sigh! It’s just spectacular. This link will take you to the “main” painting of the exhibition. If you want to see all of the paintings, click on the three lines at the top right of the Newfields site. Then, click on Collections. Then, click on Artworks. You’ll get a Search option. Just type in Pissarro, and it will show you all the works plus a few more done by artists in the same vein. The ones on display are in color. The prints are not on display. I also got to meet up with my besties and chat for just a minute or two. I’m telling you…I honestly did not expect to find three really good friends (and several other friend type friends) when I became a docent. But, here we are!
Outside…
I think y’all know I live in a small neighborhood of condominiums, right? Anyway, the thing that makes us a little different is each condo is a stand alone house. The only real “landscape” that belongs to us is the three feet out around the house. Now, I know how far out three feet is, but let’s just say I can’t measure very well! No one else in the neighborhood abides by that rule, either. Anyway, most of my perennials came back up. I do have a few bare spots in places on the south side of the house. That’s the side the bunnies prefer. I seem to have created a color scheme on that side because all the flowers are blues! So, I’ve been planting a few more perennials that bunnies don’t like lupines. I also planted some dianthus (which they do love), but I sprinkle them with pepper. That seems to keep them away. I’ve got almost all the pots filled now. I just have a few more to plant.
More outside…
As a neighborhood, part of our HOA fees goes to mowing. Well, it’s been raining here quite a bit, and they had to get the neighborhood mowed last week when the grass was wet. Our backyard is a little funky so they always struggle with a good cut. I called my daughter and asked her to ask her son (my grandson) how much he would charge me to mow my yard. They all came over (minus the oldest granddaughter), and father and son mowed and trimmed. It was so nice to have a beautifully mowed yard that I hadn’t done! I just smile whenever I look at W because I remember him as this pudgy cheeked little baby. Now, he towers over me and is lean with a swimmer’s build. He’s got state cuts (I’m not totally sure what that means) in a couple of events. Anyway, the boy is lean and eats everything in sight. My daughter texted me later and said he’d mow twice a week for lemonade! Now that made me really smile! I told her maybe once a week as the mowers will still do it on Wednesdays.
Even more outside…
I got the back porch set up, the Boston ferns hanging, and several pots of flowers strewn about. Nigel even came out and sat outside a couple of days. It’s beginning to feel good outside again. He hasn’t been outside during the summer with me since 2024. So, that created a huge smile!
Nurses and hospital staff…
I hope I didn’t give you the idea that our stay at the hospital was awful. It truly wasn’t. I think nurses, the techs, and all the staff are just amazing. They deal with some of the crappiest (literally and figuratively) things and do it with a smile (sometimes forced, I would imagine). I could never be a nurse because…ewwww! But, I recognize and value them for their loyalty and commitment to their craft. It truly is a vocation. I bought Nigel some candy bars in the cafe, and he gave them to a couple of the nurses. I don’t think they get that kinda thing very often at this hospital. It’s the “hospital” portion of the OrthoIndy group so I would imagine most people who stay there overnight are not in the best of moods.
Our doctor…
Y’all, I have to tell you…this surgeon is just the bee’s knees for me. I think I mentioned in a Nigel update before, but he doesn’t usually operate on Mondays. He came in just for Nigel…just for my guy! I hugged his neck twice that day, I think. I don’t think he’s used to that kind of reaction, either. The first time, he acted surprised. Now, I think he’d be hurt if I didn’t do it! I’m baking him cookies…oatmeal raisin…for Nigel’s appointment with him in about five weeks. I know what y’all are thinking, too! I can bake…it’s cooking I don’t like to do! That was one huge smile for me to know my Nigel is going to be walking again. He may have a limp, but he’ll be mobile again.
Kids…
When I say I have the best kids in the world, I’m not joking. They truly have stepped up and helped whenever I’ve needed it and even when I haven’t. They will come at the drop of a hat. And, don’t even get me started on my bonus kids. They are pretty daggone terrific, too. Of course, my grandkids are the mostest of anything! They all make me smile (and cry…but we won’t go there).
Clothes…
I got a bunch of packages over the last few days, and almost every single one of them made me smile! I can’t wait to show them to you in the coming weeks. As I said in my post the other day, I stress shopped. But, I also didn’t spend any money I didn’t have. I have lots to donate…things that no longer feel like me. I also tried on some old, old skirts I just couldn’t part with. I didn’t look at the size; I just tried them on. I was thrilled when they fit. Then, I looked at the size and was even more thrilled. You probably won’t ever see them (but you might). It was just nice to know I’m back in the body I’d had for so long.
You…
You make me smile by commenting, emailing, or just subscribing. I started this blog because I wanted to learn something new. I never, in a million years, would have thought I’d be a part of a community that includes you.
The outfit…
I’m wearing a simply stunning signature print by April Cornell. This is the Valley of Flowers Sleeveless Dress. It is currently on sale for less than half price! I bought it during April’s birthday month…can you guess when that is…April, of course! It’s just a gorgeous dress in every way. It moves beautifully. The neckline is embroidered with lovely flowers, and it has pockets! But, check out that hemline! It’s crocheted lace! Just remember, I’m only 5’1″ so you’ll know where it would hit you should you buy it. It will be on heavy rotation this summer.
The Lewk!
No shoes because I just didn’t feel like putting any on! I have always been a barefoot kinda girl, but I don’t do it as often since my foot surgeries. The silver earrings are from J Jill. I have absolutely no idea where I got the necklace and bracelet. Notice they’re not even blue…I think they’re blue adjacent which is good enough for me!
Wrap it up, Marsha!
I hope this was a much more cheerful post today. Well, I know it was because the last one should have been read in an Eeyore voice! I truly do have so many little things that make me smile, but I didn’t want to overload you with that. I have had a lucky life. So, can we talk? What are some of the little things that make you smile? Do you have any hints for ways to lighten up my kitchen? What are your favorite types of moulding for living rooms? Please leave me a comment or two, and we can talk. I promise to respond as quickly as I can.
Thank you!
Thank you so very much for reading today’s post. I hope you enjoyed it. I also very much appreciate those of you who comment, email and/or subscribe. It’s what keeps me going! If you’d like to follow me on Instagram, you can find me here.
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Where you can find me:
Linking up with Nancy’s Fashion Style, Fine-Whatever, Is This Mutton, Shelbee on the Edge, Chez Mireile, Suzy Turner, and Away from the Blue as well as Deb’s World . I also link up with I do deClaire, Mummabstylish, Style Splash and Elegantly Dressed and Stylish as well as the Senior Salon Pit Stop and Slices of Life. Please check out these wonderful ladies and their blogs! I also am a co-host for Ageless Style on the third Thursday of the month and Songful Style on the last Monday of the month as well as the Global Writing Challenge on the second Thursday. I now co-host Fashion Files with Amy at Coffee and Cocktails at the Casa every Tuesday. I co-host Traffic Jam Weekend every Thursday with Melynda, Lisa, Cat, and Rena. I also host 10 on the 10th on the 10th of the month! I do hope you’ll check out all of these blogs and link parties!
The neckline is so beautiful. I am glad that you have lots of things to keep you happy.
Thank you, Rosie! I thought of you as I was deadheading my rose bushes! I love the neckline because I also embroider so I can appreciate the beauty (even though it’s machine embroidery).
Marsha you look a picture of Summer in your pretty dress. I am so pleased that Nigel is progressing so well and your family have been such a help to you . It must be wonderful to have them close by.
Enjoy your garden , glad your plants survived your Winter.
Thank you so much, Jill! I do love a floral…my dad would be laughing his head off about this dress. He would definitely call it a tablecloth! I am so lucky all of my family live close and are helping me. Well, some of them didn’t make it, but it’s always a fun game to see which ones did!
That is one of the prettiest dresses I’ve seen on you and it suits you so well. it was lovely to hear of all the good things in your life and so pleased that there is going to be better times for Mike. Enjoy the garden and how lovely to have your family over to help with it.
Being a docent must be so enriching – you chose to do the right thing! Have a lovely rest of the week X
Thanks so much, Penny! I will take that as a very high compliment, indeed! I am lucky to have my kids and families so close. I absolutely love being a docent. It is just the thing to get the teacher itch taken care of as well as learning something constantly!
That is such a pretty outfit. I’ve bought a few things for myself this month too and ended up keeping my whole Stitch Fix box that came in yesterday. I could never ever imagine being a nurse either. I am not good with anything medical/body related. Yuck! But I am so thankful for those that can and do. A few of my nieces are studying nursing– funny because the 2 that love it really were such germphobes as kids. One wouldn’t even walk on the sand because she hated the feel of being dirty. But my understanding is they are both fabulous at their jobs and have done countless rotations already.
Thanks, Joanne! I’ve never tried a subscription box. I know myself too well. I would miss the deadline and end up with stuff I really didn’t want but hadn’t sent back on time! Oh, I used to pass out when I visited people in the hospital. It’s even got a name, but I can’t recall it right now. Yes, I took care of three babies, and that’s enough of the body stuff for me! That’s funny they were germaphobes!
It’s so nice to look at all the things that bring us joy, no matter how big or small. I especially like the small ones because they help me realize how blessed I am. I think just knowing Nigel will walk again is so BIG!!! Your lives are going to change in such a big way. What a blessing!
xo,
Kellyann
Thank you, Kellyann! I will admit I’ve been struggling and just got tired of being so down. So, I decided to count my blessings instead!
My pal and I went for a drive today, very early in the morning when it was still cooler, took a little walk, sat by water, listened to the birds … and it was so nice to see people smile and wave. I love those moments more than being in a crowd.
I’m so glad things are finally looking up for Mike and you!
Cat, that sounds like the absolute best way to start a day…the only thing better would be to add some chocolate or a pastry! I am hoping beyond hope that he continues to improve. Thanks, my friend!
It’s so nice to hear what’s going on in your world. I’m so glad you shared and things are looking up.
OXOX
Jodie
Thanks, Jodie! I just was tired of being down so I decide to be up!
A beautiful dress Marsha.
So pleased life is looking up
Isn’t it wonderful when your big kids and grandkids step up to help.
Enjoy your garden and the sunshine
Thank you so much, Linda! I was surprised it wasn’t too long. I really didn’t want to lose that lace bottom. I have definitely been enjoying the garden and sunshine. I do have the best kids, too!
That dress looks gorgeous with your hair – I love the colour (hair). So fabulous!! And you look so happy!
Also love what you said about the kids! Lovely- show them too!
Thanks, Lydia, for the comment about my kids…they are the best! I really appreciate the compliments on the dress and hair. Life is becoming a bit lighter, that’s for sure!
So many lovely things to be happy about, Marsha! I’m so thrilled that Mike is doing well and you’ve been able to sit outside together. And how lovely that your grandkids are happy to help with the mowing!
The dress is stunning—I’d be wearing it all summer too!
Big hugs
Suzy xx
Thanks, Suzy! He really is doing well though he’s having a little more pain due to moving around more. My grands are just the best. They really are so helpful. I’m so glad you like the dress. It’s a new favorite!
Oh my gosh, Marsha, what a beautiful dress! I love this color and print and it looks so fabulous on you. I thought you were standing on tippy toes to make yourself taller. You know, without shoes and stuff! LOL That is so awesome that your grandson made state cuts for swimming! By the way, that just means he swam fast enough to qualify for the state meet. Each event has a qualifying time and if you go faster than that time, you’re in! The swimming world generally refers to those qualifying times as “cuts”. But that is so amazing for him. I wish him much luck!
Shelbee
Thanks, Shelbee! I was just kinda goofing around. I need to figure out different poses since I’m confined to the porch. The back porch is prettier, but I can never get the lighting just right. My grandson is so fast, but there are a couple of schools that have even faster swimmers. It’s pretty amazing to watch them. Will has gone to state a couple of times. I’ve been there to watch him, but I can’t remember the stroke or the event…it was a long one, I do know that!
So good to hear about all that is going on. Your marriage and family sound so amazing. I love this dress on you!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thank you, Kathrine! I have really been blessed to have this husband and these kids. They are pretty daggone wonderful.
Well, I pretty much love everything about this dress, and as always, your hair. (: I’m sure the dress would be long on me, too as I am 5’3″. Dresses are my favorite thing to wear.
Thank you so much, Gina! My hair is one of those things that has a mind of its own! If it’s behaving, I do photo shoots! I’m only 5’1″ so it wouldn’t be too long for you! I love wearing dresses, too!
The dress is gorgeous! I enjoyed reading your updates and the fact that Nigel could come outside for the first time in two years is amazing! That will be so good for him! I hope you will prompt him to keep doing that. I love that you are baking cookies. I can imagine the doc loved your hugs and that would be so rewarding for him.
Thank you, Amy! It was so good to have him outside. It is amazing how just being outside can make you feel so much better! Oh, yes, the man is going outside often from now on. I have to tell you this doctor is just the best ever. Yesterday (Monday), when Mike had his staples removed, his appointment was actually with the Nurse Practitioner. But, the doctor saw him and made it a point to come in and talk to us both. I would have given him another hug, but I wasn’t close enough! Yes, those cookies will be baked and delivered. I think I’ll bake extras for the staff, too.
State cuts= VERY GOOD! My kids are aiming for regional cuts (Claire just got her first one this season) and only a couple of kids on her team have state cuts. Way to go for your grandson! And yes, a nicely mowed yard makes all the difference. Love your dress!
Thanks, Laura! I think I had an inkling of an idea of what they were, but I don’t know if he always swims at the state meet. Swimming is very competitive in this area as I’m sure it is in yours.
Hi, Marsha. Your purple. Does it stay in, or with each washing it will fade? I’ve been wanting to do this, my color- pink. Maybe just a stripe or as highlights.. Standing on your tippy toes makes your ankles and feet flow attractive. It’s like wearing heals. I personally like wearing shoes with a bit of a heal for this reason. I have fat ankles 🙂 I’m going to browse your site. The Nigel story sounds interesting.
Thank you for subscribing to Life Captured.
Have a fulfilled week.
All the best.
Debra @ Life Captured
Thanks, Debra! Yes, it fades with each washing. I have to wash it in ice cold water and not use purple shampoo on it. It is a lot of maintenance so that’s why I don’t do it often. Thanks for the compliments on standing on my tippy toes! I was just goofing around, and I thought it was a cool photo! I’m glad you’ve liked the blog so far. I hope you will subscribe!
Hey Marsha. I have a typo that I should have proofread before submitting.
It was supposed to be-
Have a fun filled week!
Hahaha!! No problem…sometimes, it’s so easy to hit that enter button early, right?