I've been tagged!

My friend, Kim has tagged me to list five addictions. Only five? I have way more than that, but I'll play by the rules. Here goes:

1. collecting stuff... whether it be antiques, books, ephemera, charm bracelets, tin flat-backed cookie cutters, or pottery, I'm always on the lookout for more.

2. cross-stitching, especially samplers. My other blog is confirmation of that!

3. reality TV. My favorites are The Bachelor, The Amazing Race, and Big Brother. My husband doesn't get it either, Kim.

4. potatoes...mashed, fried, scalloped, and baked. I've never met a potato that I didn't like.

5. lastly, but not least of all, I have to say dogs. No surprise here. I could never imagine not sharing my life with at least one, or two, or three.

I'm now going to tag these five people: Rowyn, Kelcey, Sue, Cindy, and Becky

Fast Food

One of our regular visitors is enjoying feasting on this seed mitten. It looks like another is patiently waiting for their turn. My sister gave us some great gifts for feeding the birds. I've been saving these until the leaves all fell off the Arizona Ash tree, so I could actually see them as they dined. So far, only the finches have been able to partake, but I have no doubt that I'll see a dove swinging from it eventually.

A very special gift

As you all know, I love charm bracelets. I love the tinkling sound they make. I love the process of collecting the charms, and I love the stories they tell. They are little works of art that you wear. This Christmas saw one more added to my collection. My dear, dear friend Patti gave me a vintage bracelet that had belonged to her late mother. I was very fond of Nessie, and it goes without saying that I am extremely touched by this gift. Patti believes that the bracelet dates back to WWII. Two of the charms are a Jeep and a tank that says U.S.A. It also has several movable charms like a carousel with horses that go round, a grand piano, teapot, and mailbox that all open. My two favorites are a push mower with blades that turn and a wringer washer that spins. There is even a miniature spark plug, which is very appropriate since Patti's family made their home in the Detroit area. Thank you, Patti. I'll treasure it always.