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Simple + Southern Sunday No. 525

December 1, 2024~ Autumn, Christmas, Everyday Living, Family, Simple + Southern Sunday, Thanksgiving

“Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.”
‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭12‬:‭24‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Tennessee’s Little River, just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, was remarkably peaceful and beautiful last week. We didn’t make the trip but our sweet grands were treated to a few days of camping by Dad and Mom. They returned home just in time to spend a wonderful Thanksgiving with family! Even in a difficult and troubled world there is so much to be grateful for, even though circumstances can make gratefulness hard to find as it can be smothered beneath heartaches!

Over the past few days our coral bark maple changed from typical gold to an autumn orange as fall was still getting in its final ‘end of the round’ punches. The little tree has been a garden standout this year!

On another note, our largest ginkgo is also making a final pose for the year, but has not quite been as showy as in the past…

…but I found this one downtown which never disappoints (not that our small one disappointed). The end of November seems very late for such color and even a bit of lingering green!

A sure sign of the season is when the time arrives for me to make a couple of trips out and about to gather the green. This load was a mix of pine and cedar. I normally use artificial garland on the mantle, but this year I did use fresh cedar. I will probably be second guessing that decision in the days to come when the cedar is dry and brittle and must be changed out!

Even without the weather predictions from local meteorologists, when the blackbirds show up in large flocks, it is a certain sign that change is coming. And sure enough, our first freeze occurred Friday night, and cold days and nights are going to be around for a while!

Pam and I have not had the opportunity to make many short trips or even day trips this fall as we have in the past. But, we are happy that Appalachian Media and crew can get away once in a while and share their adventures with us! This brings back memories, Clingmans Dome, in the  heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a spot Pam and I visited together during our early years of marriage. It is an uphill hike of a half mile to get to this point from the parking area. 
 

The Cherokee name for the mountain is Kuwohi, meaning “mulberry place”. This is the highest point in Tennessee and the second highest point east of the Mississppi River. It was a fairly clear day when our kids made this hike, but you can still see why the name Smoky Mountains is fitting! The Appalachian Trail crosses the mountain here as well as the Tennessee, North Carolina state line!

Abrams Falls, accessed from Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains National Park, is a popular hike covering just over 5 miles. In peak season, this trail can see 1000 or more hikers each day! We were able to witness how the falls looked last week without making the trek, although I would’ve enjoyed the hike!

A look back one year ago as PJ and I had a memorable evening in Nashville celebrating Christmas and enjoying a tribute to John Denver. The Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a beautiful venue and was especially so, decorated for Christmas!

I’m careful not to elevate creation above the Creator; however, I do enjoy lessons, thoughts, and ideas that come to me at times when I look about the natural world that God created and placed us in. This may seem like a strange one but here it is…Goldenrod is mainly noticed when in full bloom, majestic and golden, dominating the countryside. Those would be considered the “glory days”. As I passed this goldenrod I remembered how yellow it was some weeks back. As I looked across this field while on a walk, I realized it probably goes unnoticed to most everyone, now that it is older and grey. Maybe it has undergone changes, but it still offers much to the landscape, protecting the land from the coming harsh winter, providing shelter and a shield for the tender young plants that lie beneath…having the knowledge that spring will come again! 
 

It is likely quite winter-like where many of you live (not all of course). This was Friday in our garden. We always have volunteer zinnias come forth each spring from seed from the previous year’s garden. But we’ve not had zinnias germinate, grow, and bloom in November from the current year’s seeds! And the chaste tree is still blooming. I decided to show these because we had a prediction of 24 degrees for both last night and Friday night. 
 

I was shocked to find several zinnias blooming and a number of new plants with buds. The mandevilla has provided Christmas color…who would’ve ever thought? But then…

…about 20 hours later! After a morning that the weather folks say they recorded 22 F (-5.5 C) at our location, everything was looking a bit sad!

For somewhere around 35-40 years or so (we don’t remember for certain) I have put together a Williamsburg fan and decorated above my shop door for Christmas. I’ve not missed a year since the beginning. Last year, for the first time, ‘possums discovered the apples and began to climb up at night and help themselves to a few apples. We set traps and replaced apples throughout December, but I finally gave up on adding apples and repairing lights and greenery where the intruder’s climbing damaged everything!

The finished product, as far as the fan goes, has always looked exactly the same, with some variation in wreaths and door posts greenery. I have decided to retire from making the fan. Pam is sad about it and I too feel like something is missing, but there comes a time for all things. The work, expense, critters, and not being able to find the particular wax coating that I always used on the magnolia leaves and fruit are all contributing factors!

Pam has the Sunshine Cottage looking very festive and I knew she also had her table set for tomorrow’s Monday Morning Blooms, so I dropped in for a visit. The cottage tree triggered something inside me and I realized two things. It has turned cold, and I’ve not had hot chocolate this season. Pam could do nothing about the cold but she blessed me with my first cup of hot chocolate, all thanks to this little reminder! 

Wishing you a wonderful first week of December!

“And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭30‬-‭31‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Linking with:
 Pieced Pastimes,  Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
 Imparting Grace,Life and Linda

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  1. jeanie says

    December 1, 2024 at 6:56 AM

    I can see why with all the work you would say farewell to the fan, but boy — I also see why it is a sad time. That is incredibly beautiful and I know it takes a tremendous amount of work to do. I suspect the critters might have been the last straw! You have more color now than we do — in fact, we’re gently blanketed in white. Our up-north house has 25 inches of snow. Fortunately, we just have a few. Enough to be pretty, not enough to be a pain! Happy December — it’s time for cocoa!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:20 PM

      Thank you Jeanie. We’ve been seeing a lot of photos of snow up your way and other parts of the country as well. It’s finally turned cold here, at least cold for us. We agree, it’s cocoa time; had another cup this afternoon. Have a great week and stay warm!
      Butch and Pam

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  2. Rita C at Panoply says

    December 1, 2024 at 7:14 AM

    Butch, with your story on the goldenrod, I honestly felt like you were continuing with an analogy of those of us growing older and grey, yet still offering protection to the tender young. it’s true!
    We also had our first hard frost on Friday, a bit of snow on the ground today.
    Enjoy the season, no matter how scaled back the decor and activity. Happy December!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:24 PM

      Thank you Rita. I definitely had those thoughts as I passed the fading goldenrod. It’s supposed to be unseasonably cold here this week but no snow for us. I’m trying to scale back but seems like I keep thinking we need to do “one more thing”, so where does it end? Have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  3. Mrs. White says

    December 1, 2024 at 7:30 AM

    The color of the leaves looks stunningly beautiful! I love that waterfall. I have been to Cades Cove, but did not realize how much it has to offer. We were only there for a short time. Tennessee is a beautiful state. I hope you enjoyed the hot chocolate!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:28 PM

      Thank you Mrs White. We enjoyed more hot chocolate today. A lot of those leaves disappeared overnight as we had temps in the low 20’s. We are about an hour and a half from Tennessee. TN dose have so much to offer. Have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  4. Rachel Hill says

    December 1, 2024 at 7:49 AM

    Your Williamsburg fan is always beautiful. However, when something begins to feel like a chore instead of fun, it’s probably time to quit. 😊 More than likely the critters will be back for their nightly meal. Can’t wait to see the rest of your Christmas decorations. I’m wrapping mine up after starting the last week of October!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:32 PM

      Thanks Rachel. It seems like we are slower about getting the decorations completed this year yet we started earlier. Putting that fan together every year became a tradition quickly and was fun. The maintenance last season did become a chore. We wish you a blessed week!
      Butch and Pam

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  5. Jenna says

    December 1, 2024 at 8:25 AM

    Beautiful photos of Fall color Butch, the coral bark maple, wow! I always love your fresh greenery creations, and I know you will miss the beautiful Williamsburg fan over your door, but not worth it if the critters continue to mess it up! Hot chocolate sure sounds good on this very cold morning and I’m looking forward to seeing the Sunshine Cottage decorated for Christmas tomorrow! Happy December!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:37 PM

      Thank you Jenna. I do miss seeing that fan over the door and just today was trying to come up with some other ideas. It’s really time to complete everything, find a stopping place, and enjoy the season. The cold nights have wiped out the maple and ginkgo leaves. Have a pleasant December week!
      Butch and Pam

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  6. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns says

    December 1, 2024 at 8:25 AM

    It brings me joy to read your post on Sunday, your observations of nature, the world and the scripture warms my heart.
    In this season of joy and wonder I hope that letting go of your Williamsburg fan and the stress of the critters leaves you room to enjoy so many more little things, like a cup of homemade cocoa from the woman you love.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:42 PM

      Well thank you Elizabeth. Good advice from you about enjoying the season and the little things. That sweet woman I love made us hot chocolate again this afternoon. We wish you a wonderful first week of December!
      Butch and Pam

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  7. Carole @ From My Carolina Home says

    December 1, 2024 at 8:55 AM

    The fan is indeed fabulous! Lovely fall leaves and photos of our natural world.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:43 PM

      Thank you Carole. I’m kinda missing that fan, looks a bit bare out there. We hope you have a great week!
      Butch and Pam

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  8. Alice Genzlinger says

    December 1, 2024 at 10:09 AM

    AMEN Elizabeth. I look forward to something each day that will bring me joy and Sunday with Everyday Living is guaranteed to do just that. Nature is Gods way of showing us life’s changes. Oh how pretty the first blooms of Spring and how pretty the trees as they turn Golden. Butch I’m sad that the Williamsburg fan will not hang over your workshop this year. It’s so beautiful and I personally know how much work and expense it is to create. I only did it only once even so it was worth it. A thing of beauty that brought me joy. Happy December folks🎄

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:49 PM

      Thanks so much Alice. I always dipped the magnolia, apples, and pineapple for that fan in the old fashioned Johnson’s clear floor wax. My local places stopped carrying it, telling us it was discontinued. I looked online and some places had it for outrageous prices. There’s other things I can use of course but I had my routine. Happy December to you and have a great first week!
      Butch and Pam

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  9. Heritage Hall says

    December 1, 2024 at 10:36 AM

    Oh your cedar …. Such heartiness and luster…. you nurture well …. especially our spirits with your musings upon nature and your comments on the goldenrod
    Schermerhorn can rival many a European opera house. It takes pride of place in
    Nashville. A time ago we gave up the fresh Williamsburg fan over the front door and opted for quite realistic artificial trimmings….from a short distance no one
    is the wiser. However, I held out for a real Pineapple to assuage my guilt. Another Sabbath filled with your beautiful photos, thoughtful comments and
    Scripture, Butch …. a prelude to Pam’s giftedness tomorrow. Blessings ~

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 8:58 PM

      Thank you Mary. At first, many years back, I wanted everything on the fan to be real. I did finally give in to using artificial greenery behind the fruit and leaving the greenery in place on the form year after year, which was a help. I considered artificial fruit so as to disappoint the nightly fruit bandits but I just couldn’t go that far in abandoning fresh and real…so we understand your need for a real pineapple. Have a blessed first week of December!
      Butch and Pam

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  10. LeslieAnne Tarabella says

    December 1, 2024 at 10:39 AM

    “not to elevate the creation above the creator.” – a very insightful and good thought! Thank you for that. Also, I made a Williamsburg fan one year . . ONE year. It was very hard and I kept thinking I would get nailed on the noggin with an apple when the door slammed. I think the addition of a hungry possum is hilarious – although irritating to you!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:05 PM

      Thanks Leslie Anne. We have had a few times where apples did fall when I closed the door too hard. And it’s a mystery why so many years passed without possum interference. We’ve always had hungry possums around. We wish you a joy filled week!
      Butch and Pam

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  11. Kris @ Junk Chic Cottage says

    December 1, 2024 at 10:41 AM

    The fan was always beautiful which the critters were so happy you took all the time to make.
    The fall colors for you are beautiful. Glad your Thanksgiving was wonderful. Have a beautiful new week as we slide on down to Christmas. Hugs. Kris

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:09 PM

      Thank you Kris. The fall colors are slipping away and as you say it is time to slide toward Christmas. Seems December came on in a flurry. Yes, the critters are always appreciative of an easy fresh meal. Have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  12. Clara says

    December 1, 2024 at 10:59 AM

    The Smokies are always beautiful in the fall it seems. We were able to make a trip at the end of October. Your fan was gorgeous. It was labor intensive and animals attacking it can make it frustrating. The Sunshine Cottage tree preview looks festive. Our outside plants are history now with a hard freeze but the deer are finishing them off. We have a fawn that visits our flower beds all alone and I just don’t have the heart to run it off as we haven’t seen it’s mom. We hope she’s in the background somewhere but we’re not running off the little one even if we have to replant a few items. Happy December! Clara❤️

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:13 PM

      Thank you Clara. That mama deer is probably around somewhere close. I plant a long strip of winter rye and clover along a fence line about 100 yards behind the sunshine cottage and that seems to keep the deer out there instead of in the garden. I counted 9 out there this afternoon. Have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  13. Roxanne Bernard says

    December 1, 2024 at 11:46 AM

    Happy December 1st, Butch and Pam! I agree with Alice about the goldenrod analogy. “They” say older people become invisible…but we Baby Boomers need to change that! I’m not going down without a fight. Your Williamsburg fans were stunning, but I can appreciate wanting to spend your energy on other things. Who knows…next year you might feel differently. Enjoyed seeing all the shots of TN by Appalachian Media. My sister and I were driving home at sunset on Friday and could see the Blue Ridge way in the distance. They were outlined absolutely black against the pink sky. Magnificent!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:28 PM

      Thank you Roxanne. We were sitting here using our imagination on how wonderful a sunset behind the Blue Ridge would be. It occurred to me tonight that last year I could no longer find the old Johnson’s clear floor wax that I used on all the live elements of that Williamsburg fan and I ordered a substitute. I just told Pam that I recall not liking it or thinking it worked well. Maybe the Johnson’s kept the possums away all those years? Maybe I shouldn’t give up the fan without a fight. Have a blessed week!
      Butch and Pam

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  14. KARLA Lea HALE says

    December 1, 2024 at 5:52 PM

    Dear Butch (and Pam, hello!),
    I enjoyed this, as always. Not only do you share such beautiful creation pictures, but also, wisdom, Butch. I’ve never known you to put creation above the Creator. The Smoky Mountains are so majestic. The dome is somewhere I haven’t visited in years. I’m ready to visit the Smokies again. I miss it.
    It’s crazy to me how long my flowers lasted here! Up until Friday, mine still had blooms, too! The maple you have is gorgeous and how neat to see the Gingko so huge and wonderful in town (and at your place).
    I’m sorry about the Williamsburg Fan situation. Yet, I understand the reasons! You have many memories and pictures you can still share, too!
    I had a hike in the woods yesterday and thought of you all–and prayed, like I do each day so you got two yesterday! Would you please tell Pam that I thank you both for your GENEROUS gift and card. That was unexpected and unnecessary–so thank you so much. I’m sorry I haven’t thanked you before today!
    This morning at church we celebrated Advent beginning a series called, “Arrival”. Hope has a name–JESUS. In the midst of heartaches, pain, and trials, I will always have hope. When it’s God’s will, I can’t force anything. If it’s God’s will, I can’t stop it. One day the trumpet will sound. Because of living and blessed hope, HE is coming again! In this season of celebrating, I’m so thankful.
    Butch and Pam, thank you for all you do to share light and goodness with the world!
    Pam, I can only imagine how divine the cottage is shaping up to be! Yummy hot chocolate is a great idea.
    Love, Karla and Finley

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:40 PM

      Thank you Karla and thanks always for your prayers. Glad you got in a hike. I was able to get out a bit yesterday as well, it was a cold morning. We started an Advent book at home today that we’ve not previously read, called Come Let Us Adore Him. We think it will be great. Our flowers are gone now after two nights in the low 20’s and predicted unseasonably cold all this week. The maple and ginkgo leaves are dropping quickly now. What a difference a day makes. We pray you have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  15. Myrna says

    December 1, 2024 at 6:19 PM

    Such a wonderful message and photos every Sunday. I grew up not far from Williamsburg and love the fan and garland. Williamsburg and William and Mary college is so beautiful at Christmas. I put cloves out to deter some critters, and minced garlic from the dollar store for others.
    I am so allergic to fresh pine and cedar. I would bring home the clippings to make it smell good, and wonder why I was sick every Christmas. Slow learner !
    Pam, how is your father ?

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:46 PM

      Thank you Myrna and thanks for asking about Pam’s dad. He is better and stronger now, caregivers are with him 24/7 but he has definitely improved. I may try cloves and garlic for critter deterrent. I thought about moth balls too. We would love to visit Williamsburg this time of year, only been there in the summer. Have a great week!
      Butch and Pam

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  16. Sarah Anderson says

    December 1, 2024 at 7:32 PM

    Butch, what a beautiful tradition. I know you and Pam will miss having this beauty this year, but your reasons ring true for me. I deal with critters too! It takes talent to create such a gorgeous display. I’m glad you have the memories of making these and enjoying them each season. Your photos today are stunning! As always, thank you!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 9:54 PM

      Thank you Sarah. We all have our traditions I suppose, even when we don’t even realize it until we don’t (or can’t) do them anymore. But it’s all about making memories. The critters can be frustrating but I “try” to remember they are just out there trying to survive. We hope you have a great first week of December!
      Butch and Pam

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  17. Vicky says

    December 1, 2024 at 8:37 PM

    For everything there is a season. I fell off a step stool and broke my femur in September. My husband is worried about me using it but I am only 5’1″ and I reminded him that I have climbed stools for nearly 75 years without accidents. I know you have experienced worse. I hope you have a blessed Christmas .

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 1, 2024 at 10:10 PM

      Thanks Vicky. Truly there is a season for all things and you have been experiencing one with that fall. Hope you are recovering well. By God’s grace I have recovered from a few things through the years and as long as God allows I just keep getting back up on the stool so to speak…as long as I can. Pam definitely cautions me often about things. Have a wonderful week!
      Butch and Pam

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  18. Tea With Jennifer says

    December 2, 2024 at 6:00 PM

    Loved this post Pam & Butch! I particularly enjoyed the Waterfall scene as I just love waterfalls, I don’t know what it is exactly about them but I just think they’re so majestical! 😊

    We’ve entered Summer here on the east coast of Australia so the hot, humid weather is in full swing with the Cicadas at a deafening pitch around us, Agapanthus (aka the Lily of the Nile) in full bloom everywhere including our front yard, as well as our Bougainvillea (deepest pink) & Hibiscus (red & white).
    I hope you both have a great week.
    Blessings, Jennifer

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 2, 2024 at 8:41 PM

      Thank you Jennifer. It’s finally very cold here
      (for us anyway), so we are jealous of your summer weather and flowers. We aren’t jealous of those Cicadas however, hopefully that’s 13 summers away for us. I (Butch) read your post on Life and Death Drama and enjoyed it so much. We could definitely find joy in seeing all there is to see in and around your yard. Have a blessed week. Happy summer!
      Butch and Pam

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      • Tea With Jennifer says

        December 3, 2024 at 6:09 PM

        The Cicadas are here at this time every year, just as loud & deafening, although it’s the sound of our Summer so I really can’t complain. 😊

        We find their Shells attached to our trees & the bricks of our house. Which the grandchildren loved collecting when they were little.

        I had to look up why we have them emerge every year & you only every 13/14 years.

        I just learnt a new fact;
        Apparently, “Australia is home to more than 700 species of cicada, and is known as the “cicada capital of the world”

        So thats’ why we have them emerge every year at this time (prime conditions), as the different species emerge! Fascinating.

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      • Pam @ Everyday Living says

        December 3, 2024 at 8:33 PM

        Wow. We did not know that or that Australia had no native cat species until you said that. We have annual cicadas but in small numbers compared to the noisy periodical cicadas that occur every 13 years, or every 17 in some places. The annual versions usually show up in our mid summer and we commonly call them July flies here in our region. They aren’t so noisy and it’s usually late evening or night. You live in such an interesting and unique place. Have a good day!
        Butch and Pam

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  19. Nancy says

    December 3, 2024 at 5:18 AM

    Hello Folks!
    I so enjoy your pictures and commentary. I can’t imagine a week going by without reading your Sunday Posts, Butch. I may be late in getting over here but I always get here.
    The cold has come to your neck of the woods. Our Pennsylvania Lake House is buried in 28 inches of snow. Our summer home is just south of Erie, Pennsylvania and they have close to 46 inches of snow. They are in a State of Emergency because the Lake effect snow will not stop.
    Those darn critters were the instigators! But there comes a time. And it’s okay.
    Merry December!

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 3, 2024 at 8:24 PM

      Hello to you Nancy and thanks for your kind words. We’ve been seeing the news about snow especially the PA lake effect, seeing a lot of photos. The mountains of TN a NC got some snow yesterday, a few hours from us. Nothing like the snow further north. I’m still thinking about a plan to outwit the critters. Have a wonderful week
      Butch and Pam

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  20. Leslie Hayes says

    December 4, 2024 at 9:00 AM

    A lovely post, I enjoyed every word and picture. it is a shame about your Williamsburg door. It’s beautiful. God bless and Merry Christmas.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 4, 2024 at 10:25 AM

      Thanks so much, Leslie! God bless and Merry Christmas!

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  21. Cheryl says

    December 4, 2024 at 1:43 PM

    Aw, it made me feel sad, too, to know that you will no longer be making the fan. I completely understand the need, though. Kevin and I are 60 and 58, but we have slowed down and no longer feel the pressure to do certain things that we used to do for so long. There is a time and season for everything. Through it all, God remains faithful.

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    • Pam @ Everyday Living says

      December 4, 2024 at 7:25 PM

      We have to allow ourselves some grace and not feel guilty when we can no longer do what we once did! Yes, there is a time and a season for all things.
      Pam

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A big southern welcome, y’all!  We are Butch & Pam and we are so glad you landed here at Everyday Living. If you stay around here long enough, you’ll learn that we are into a lot of different hobbies. You may find Pam putting together a tablescape, our travels, pullin’ weeds in the garden, and a variety of other things…just sharing our everyday living with you.  We both love reading and trying our hand at photography, but best of all…and our favorite – We are “Da”and“PJ” to 4 precious grandchildren! Butch (sometimes referred to as Renaissance Man, or RM) does our Sunday posts. Thank you for stopping by!

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Happy Tuesday, I invite you to join me for Tea on Happy Tuesday, I invite you to join me for Tea on Tuesdays! A 🍓strawberry🍓 themed tea was set under the arbor where the Lady Banks roses have climbed up and over. The roses bloomed in early spring and they were gorgeous, but now they provide a green canopy of shade, perfect for afternoon tea! A delicious strawberry and vanilla green tea is served along with strawberry trifles in vintage ice cream sundae glasses. Precious memories are always shared with my tables! 

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Happy Monday! We have had a lot of rain which shor Happy Monday! We have had a lot of rain which shortened our peony season! Peony Karl Rosenfield was absolutely stunning this year. Sarah Bernhardt was relocated last year and gave us some gorgeous blooms in spite of being moved. Several Spirea are in bloom as well as Clematis Jackmanii! What is blooming in your garden?

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Happy Wednesday! I set a table next to our woodlan Happy Wednesday! I set a table next to our woodlands in memory of my beautiful Mother who was a lovely example of a Proverbs 31 woman. Mother had the gift of hospitality and shared it with everyone. Karl Rosenfield peonies from my garden fill a treasured keepsake pitcher handed down from my grandmother! A beautiful floral April Cornell ‘Lillianna’ tablecloth and Famille Rose salad plates elevate the status of the old picnic table next to our woodlands. I have collected bejeweled enamel trinket boxes for many years and shared a few on the table for whimsy and fun. For memories of my Mother, click the link in my profile. 

“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30

#aprilcornell #aprilcornellbrandambassador  #peonies #mothersday #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #famillerose #alfrescotable #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday! I am behind in posting spring flow Happy Thursday! I am behind in posting spring flowers from my garden. Lady Banks Rose in bloom on the arbor 1-3 Snowball Viburnum with its showy blooms 4-5 Gorgeous Kwanzan Cherry blossoms 6-7 Old-fashioned Bridal Wreath Spirea 8-9 10 Lady Banks Rose 

Click link in bio to visit the blog post.

Wishing you a joy-filled day 🌼🤍🌺🤍

#mygarden #gardening #gardener #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #southernlivingmag #cottagegarden #gardeninglife #gardendesignmag #ladybanksrose #snowballviburnum #bridalwreathspirea #kwanzancherry #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
With glorious weather, the table next to our woodl With glorious weather, the table next to our woodlands was perfect for teatime! It is Tea on Tuesdays with blogging friends Mary and Kitty. The table is enhanced by views toward the mountain, woodlands, and the large Snowball Viburnum. The verdant rye grass appears as a green carpet that has been spread for Easter! Vintage Fitz and Floyd ‘Herb Garden’ teapots, sugar and creamer, and oval tray are suited for springtime with their embossed bows, vegetables, and words. A bouquet of Kwanzan Cherry blossoms add more spring color to the setting. 

I am serving a simple teatime with Earl Grey tea, savory egg salad filled phyllo cups, and sweet vanilla cupcakes with cream cheese icing, and macarons! A favorite cottage rose tablecloth and Essential napkins are by April Cornell.

We are most blessed to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, being the source of new life, yet new life that is eternal. The beauty of this spring will again give way to another autumn in a few months, but the significance of His empty tomb will never change! Wishing you a blessed Holy Week ✝️ Click the link in my bio to view the blog!

#eastertable #aprilcornellbrandambassador  #aprilcornell #fitzandfloyd #teatime #teatimemagazine #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #teaontuesdays #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #alfresco
Happy Thursday! I love setting a table next to our Happy Thursday! I love setting a table next to our woodlands and this is the first one of the season, an Easter/Spring table! I love all the sweet bunny decorations, but Easter is so much more. We celebrate Easter because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  His bodily resurrection enables all those who choose to follow Him to have assured victory over our greatest enemy…death!

 I look forward each year when some of my favorite blooms display their amazing beauty in our garden. Snowball viburnum in its full glory with large creamy white blooms. Climbing Lady Banks Rose is covered in hundreds of miniature yellow blooms cascading to the ground. An old-fashioned Bridal Wreath Spirea with its branches arching to the ground in a fountain-like growth habit is loaded with showy double white flowers in clusters of three to six that resemble a bride’s wreath. I still claim the Kwanzan Cherry tree even though it is now on our son’s property. Its ruffled pink double pink blossoms are some of my favorite blooms. All four of these blooms make up an arrangement with a few tulips from the grocery store. 

A fluffle of moss bunnies hopped up to the picnic table. A ‘Charming’ tablecloth with  Mary Lake-Thompson napkins and Williams Sonoma enchanting ‘Famille Rose’ bunny plates!

#eastertablescape #springtablescape #alfresco #springtime #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #aprilcornell #aprilcornellbrandambassador #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #williamssonoma
I often shared my sweet Daddy and his stories on m I often shared my sweet Daddy and his stories on my blog. My precious Daddy passed away peacefully on March 26th at the age of 94, surrounded by his beloved family! He was born during the depths of the Great Depression. That may have been part of the reason he was always content and loved the simple things. 

“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” Proverbs 22:1

After high school graduation he signed to play professional baseball with the Cleveland Indians Organization. His baseball career was cut short when he was drafted in the army. He was seriously wounded in the Korean War and was awarded a Purple Heart and two bronze stars. Upon returning home, he married my beautiful Mother and they shared 54 wonderful years together before she passed away suddenly. 

My brother and I grew up in a Christian home, bathed in love, calm, security, and contentment, under the care of the two finest parents anyone could have. Daddy was known as Pawpaw to his three grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

My heart is broken, he was the best Daddy a girl could have. I know he is present with the Lord and I rejoice in that promise, knowing too, that my Mother is also in the eternal presence of our Heavenly Father. 

For more of my Daddy’s story, click the link in my bio.
Happy first day of Spring! One of my favorite bloo Happy first day of Spring! One of my favorite blooming trees of springtime is the Kwanzan Cherry! I love pairing them with my Snowball Viburnum blooms to make a lovely flower arrangement!

Wishing you a most beautiful day!

#cherryblossom #springtime #springinthesouth #kwanzancherry #mygarden #southerngarden #victoriamagazine #southernladymag #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Welcome to Sunshine Cottage and the March edition Welcome to Sunshine Cottage and the March edition of Tea on Tuesdays. My inspiration for teatime is the beautiful linens from @april.cornell With the celebration of their 50th anniversary, many Heritage Prints from the archives have returned. Eden is one of the beautiful patterns that has returned. It is a soft purple paradise where butterflies float, roses bloom, and soft sage leaves levitate. As an April Cornell Brand Ambassador, I was gifted these gorgeous linens! I have been a collector of @april.cornell linens for many years…the floral patterns resonate with my love of English Country. 

I am serving my favorite, Earl Gray tea, from an Eileen’s Reserve teapot. Teacups by Grace Teaware and vintage Rose Chintz salad plates by Johnson Brothers add more floral patterns to the mix. Japanese Magnolia blooms were cut from my garden and placed in a lilypad teapot!

Mary @ homeiswheretheboatis.net and I welcome Nancy @nance_endless_summer as our special guest! LINK in bio for the blog posts. Have a wonderful day!

#teaontuesdays #teatime #aprilcornell #southernladymagazine #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry_ #homeiswheretheboatis #victoriamagazine #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #englishcountrystyle #aprilcornellbrandambassador
Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️ A few photos from Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️ A few photos from our visit to ☘️ Ireland, The Emerald Isle and a tablescape in our Appalachian Foothills ☘️

“May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow.
 May the soft winds freshen your spirit.
 May the sunshine brighten your heart.
 May the burdens of the day rest lightly 
 upon you.
 And may God enfold you in His love.”

#everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #stpatricksday
It felt like spring today with a high in the upper It felt like spring today with a high in the upper 70’s. Do you ever forget what you have? I do, so I compiled a partial catalog of my teapots. I have included some here and more on my blog. Click the LINK in my profile to see more! 

#teapot #teapotcollector #teapots #teaontuesdays #teatime #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry_ #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Monday! With March bringing the promise of s Happy Monday! With March bringing the promise of spring and looking forward to our garden awakening, I planted a blooming bulb garden in my Sunshine Cottage! The butcher block countertop under a window, was a perfect place for a mini garden. Muscari, hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils danced in the sunlight and filled the cottage with an amazing fragrance! 

It is Monday Morning Blooms with friends Lidy @frenchgardenhouse Shannon @bellebleuinteriors and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net

LINK in bio to view blog posts

#southernladymag #victoriamagazine #bulbgarden  #springbulbs #indoorgardening #muscari #hyacinths #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam #thecottagejournal #portmeirion
Hello friends, I don’t know about you, but I am Hello friends, I don’t know about you, but I am ready for spring. Meteorological Spring begins this Saturday, March 1 and I am going with it. I have pulled spring flower arrangements from my blog archives. I hope you enjoy the flower therapy! You can see all of them by clicking on the  LINK in bio.

#springflowers #springflowerarrangement #springtime #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #flowermagazine #aprilcornell #gardener #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Tuesday! Welcome to the Sunshine Cottage whe Happy Tuesday! Welcome to the Sunshine Cottage where it is warm and cozy on this cold February day. It is Tea on Tuesdays and I have set a tea table with the “Blue Roses” collection that was a collaboration between @victoriamagazine and @april.cornell The exclusive porcelain pattern and matching linens have been used many times and I still enjoy their blue and white beauty. Instead of fresh flowers, porcelain ones require no arranging. Sweet treats pair perfectly with a traditional English Breakfast tea. I am joining friends Sarah @sjpa48 and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net

#teaontuesdays #teatime #victoriamagazine #aprilcornell #southernladymag #teatimemagazine #thecottagejournal #teatimepoetry #porcelainflowers #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday and Valentine’s Eve! In celebrati Happy Thursday and Valentine’s Eve! In celebration of the day, I pulled images from my blog archives for inspiration❤️💗❤️

Wishing everyone a lovely Valentine’s Day ❤️

#valentinesday #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #traditionalstyle #grandmillenial #valentinestablescape #valentinedecor #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy first Monday of February! After so many cold Happy first Monday of February! After so many cold days, we are experiencing a tease of spring with a 73 degree day that is forecast. After the gray and cloudy days, I needed a dose of color and decided to set a colorful citrus themed brunch! Using a bird gold and pewter stand, I mixed a citrus medley of lemons, oranges, and limes with pink and white carnations as the centerpiece. The table is highlighted with blue and white dishware. Fresh squeezed orange juice, French-pressed coffee and sweet treats of lemon poppyseed muffins, lemon cake with lemon icing, and lemon pastries are perfect for a small brunch. A faux lemon topiary belonged to my beloved Mother and seemed a perfect addition to a citrus-themed table! You are invited to join me and my Monday Morning Blooms friends, Lidy @frenchgardenhouse Sarah @sjpa48 and Mary homeiswheretheboatsis.net by clicking the LINK in my bio!

#mondaymorningblooms🌻 #citrus #floraldesign #brunch #southernladymagazine #victoriamagazine #thecottagejournal #grandmillennial #traditionaldecor #lemons #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Welcome to Sunshine Cottage where I have been fluf Welcome to Sunshine Cottage where I have been fluffing for Valentine’s Day! For many years my Sweetheart and I have celebrated February 14th at home where it is quiet, no reservations are required, and we always have a table by the window! 

I love the traditional colors of red and pink! Frilly carnations fill a vintage Staffordshire, ‘Charlotte’ pitcher which rests on an antique Limoges plate with a velvet gold-crowned heart. The plate stack consists of a Royal Stafford ‘Asiatic pheasant’ dinner plate, American Atelier ‘Baroque’ luncheon/salad plate, Johnson Brothers, ‘Winchester’ salad plate, and a vintage pierced Bavarian rose plate! I am a huge fan of mixing colors, patterns, and textures for a collected look. 

I have joined 17 table stylists for a Valentine’s Day Blog Hop. Click the LINK in my bio to see all of the Valentine inspiration!

#southernladymag #valentineday #valentinestablescape #valentinesday #victoriamagazine #romanticdecor #traditionalstyle #replacementsltd #flowermagazine #thecottagejournal #pjssunshinecottage #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Tuesday! On this very cold winter’s day, I Happy Tuesday! On this very cold winter’s day, I am serving my favorite tea, Earl Grey, in the Sunshine Cottage where it is warm and cozy! The magic of dancing sunlight enhances the table that is dressed with a warm tartan plaid throw repurposed as a tablecloth! ‘Winter Fauna’ bird salad plates from Pottery Barn (many years ago and now discontinued) remind me of the birds I watch from my kitchen window during the winter season. The Grace Teaware set adds more blue and white to the Spode ‘Blue Room’ dinner plates. Sweet treats were placed on a stack of Bordallo Pinheiro plates! A darling Hummel ‘Icy Adventure’ depicts a scene of an outdoor frozen pond with a pair of sweet ice skaters, a rosy cheeked boy and girl who have fallen down on the ice. I am sharing Tea on Tuesdays with Shannon @bellebleuinteriors and Mary homeiswheretheboatis.net Link in my Bio will take you to my blog post! Stay warm and safe!

#teaontuesdays #teatime #teatimemagazine #teatimepoetry #victoriamagazine #southernladymag #pjssunshinecottage #tea #graceteaware #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
Happy Thursday! Mid January with cold weather and Happy Thursday! Mid January with cold weather and I am thinking about my spring and summer garden! I have ordered seeds that are to arrive tomorrow…zinnias, sunflowers, and giant marigolds! On today’s blog post (LINK IN BIO) I am sharing my photo journal from 2024’s garden! Grab a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and join me.

#mygarden #gardening #cottagegarden #gardendesignmag #gardengatemagazine #southernladymag #victoriamagazine #gardener #gardeninglife #everydaylivingwithbutchandpam
My precious family enjoying a rare snowfall in Ala My precious family enjoying a rare snowfall in Alabama!
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