Lee Prairie Designs

We, along with grandchildren, had hoped for white Christmas--but not 12" of "white"! Anyway, it is beautiful and it is IOWA. Being snowbound for day or so has afforded time to reflect on past Christmas's with children, grandchildren, parents and grandparents. While reminiscing I recalled a letter from my mother to Santa written 92 Christmas's ago. I found the letter and wanted to share with you.    Click on each picture to enlarge. Virginia Lee    Our 6 grandchildren decorating Christmas cookies at our house- a tradition of fun!  All Hearts go home for Christmas God Bless you and your families  xoxox, Carolyn   

Thank you, my blogging pals,  for your friendship and kind words.  When I started blogging I had no idea how many treasured friends I would have the privilege of adding to my life.  I am grateful for each one of you!    I haven't been posting because.......   I was a vendor last weekend at the Central Presbyterian Church in conjuction with the Holly and Ivy tour of homes. Carol, pictured on the left is dear friend of 56 years and was a great helper!     Below are a few more Christmas treasures  I made to sell.     Sunday we woke up to this beautiful view!    Our dear friend "Donna" from Omaha water colored  this adorable Mr. and Mrs. Snow couple for us. Note the monogrammed letters of "G" on his scarf and  the "C" on her jacket--how clever you are "Donna"!     Hope you are all having a wonderful week! ...

  Thanksgiving Day brings to mind the blessings in our lives that usually go unnoticed; a home that surrounds us with comfort and protection; delicious food, for pleasure in both eating and sharing; clothes and quilts to snuggle up in, books and good entertainment to expand our minds; and freedom to worship. Most of all we are thankful for our family and friends, those treasured people who make our lives extra special. You are a part of that cherished group. On Thanksgiving, and every day.  I do appreciate you!   Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.   Hugs, Carolyn       

   Zelda, is wishing you a "Happy Fall Day" and weekend! BOO AND SCARE!!!!   Miss. Abbie is selecting fabric for my next progect-- what do you think of her selection? Decorating with a few fun hollween projects.    Stitched some pin cushions with left over blocks from Cheryl's 1880 Sampler Sew Along. Visit her inspiring blog...you will love it!    Maple leaf blocks are one of my favorites especially -- made up in a table topper.   Made these ymmy and "Easy" Apple Dumplings   Here is the recipe....there were--- NO leftovers!   I'm going for a walk to enjoy the finial burst of color--winter is around  the corner!   Hug's Carolyn   

From our garden ....   " Chester"   " Jim Bob" Both will be taking a long winters nap-in storage!    This is my favorite time of the year, our fall Clemantis is in full bloom- it's putting on quite a show right now. I would like to think it's aware of our impending move and is gifting us with this splended display one last time. Our Anemone, also known as windflowers, is showing off too!   This is a start of our new home. For now we will watch with antisapation and excitment as we wait till February to move in. This is a picture of my sewing room corner.   I won't be posting for awhile---as we will be organizing and setting up in the apartment. Be back in a week or two! Hugs, Carolyn

       I have a happy heart!    Because the...... is over! And this is what was left! Moving on----this is my new sewing spot in the apartment and ready for creating new projects!    This is our kitchen...small but very efficient!        This is what we have moved so far......      Two chairs and a table.     The moving company will bring the other things on the 14th!   Then in Febuary our new home.    For now, we will have a restful day with family and hope you all are having the same!!   Hugs, Carolyn     

  Haven't faced the three "WHAT'S" for 28 years!!!!!!   "What" to keep? "What" to sell? "What" to give away? Everything is marked and today we will organize and spread out with more large tables!        Friday and Saturday are the sale days, hope everything goes! Hugs, Carolyn 

5309 Harwood Drive Hurray, we've sold our home! Fortunately, on the market 16 days- sold to first couple who viewed it.  Then came home inspector, pest inspector, etc! etc! Oh, how things have changed during the past 28 years!!!  September 20th, a young family of 4 will be moving in. Click on each picture to enlarge view. Now, comes packing and the move to an apartment for 6 months. Boxes for packing Home Sweet Home ( temporary) Home Sweet Home ( future) in February. " The Vineyard Cottage" Wonder if (door) trim can be removed with 18 years growth of six grandchildren recorded, with name, date and height- usually measured on Christmas eve. How fortunate and blessed we have been, enjoying 28 years of family memories and much, much. More! While all this has been going on, I was asked to be on a boutique committee  with the  "Holly and Ivy"  tour of historical homes decorated for Christmas, December 6t...