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Friday, May 21, 2010

Shhhh... It's A Surprise!



I'm whispering because today is a very special day. It's the surprise first birthday of Aliénore, a little doll created by Patricia of Papillon Bleu UK. I introduced you to them earlier this week...



So in honor of that celebration, two of my bunnies have decided to take off from work...



And set a table to surprise their friend across the pond...



They began by bringing out their best tea set...



And adding what was left of the Confederate Jasmine to an egg cup they are using as a vase...



And of course adding their favorite sweets, carrots!



Just as they finished tidying up and setting the table, a few friends came by to send their regards...



The first being Stella from The Cross Stitch House, who is preparing to return to England soon and hopes to some day meet Aliénore in person...



Then there was a swan...



And a bunny...



And a cat...



Or two...



Or three...



And then there were some cool cats...



A jazz band, straight from New Orleans*...



Who played some tunes...



Songs that Patricia knew when she was a singer...



In her other life in France...



Songs that she now sings to Aliénore in their cottage in the English countryside...



Including, of course, "The Birthday Song"...



And on that note, I want to wish Dear Aliénore a very Happy First Birthday, and I encourage you to do the same!



You can join her party by going HERE.


Now, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Pink Saturday! I'm joining my dear friend Beverly and all of her friends to celebrate all that is pink. I hope you'll join me there by clicking right HERE.


Thanks for visiting, and I look forward to visiting you, too! :-)

Warmly,

Mrs. Magpie (Sheila)

*The jazz band was a gift selected by my godson, Stephen, when he was a very small boy and paid for out of his own allowance. They have been waiting to make their screen debut for over 12 years! ;-)

110 comments:

Allie and Pattie said...

Oh, I wish my little grand-daughter were here to see this! I think I'll send it to her
xoxo pattie

Carol at Serendipity said...

Sheila,

I love your stories. Just a wonderful birthday party. The band is perfect.

Carol

Southern Lady said...

Oh, what a precious gathering for Alienore's party ... and an exquisite collection of bunnies, kitties, and figurines to make it a most elegant party, too ... complete with a New Orleans jazz band! I know Alienore is going to be all smiles when she sees the lovely party her friends have created for her birthday.

And speaking of birthdays, the beautiful party you hosted for Claudie was the epitome of what southern hospitality and grace is all about, and should be featured in a magazine. Paula Deen and Martha Stewart should take some lessons from you, Shelia!

Gwendolen Elaine said...

Adorable!And the trumpet(?) solo started just as I was scrolling to the jazz band!!!*grin*...Too cute!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Another fabulous party Sheila!!
I love it, you sure have the touch my friend! I can't believe you would have a pink party for me, your the best!!!
Hugs to you and Happy weekend,
Oh, and that tea set may be the cutest I have ever laid my eyes on!
Hugs,
Cindy

Tammy@Simple Southern Happiness said...

What a delightful story, I was tapping my foot to the music, the ban really knows how to keep us on our feet. I have so enjoyed my visit on your blog. You are quite the witty one. I got such a chuckle when I read your answer to the question "When you open your eyes underwater, do you ever worry that you'll drown?" in your profile. Too funny...

Happy Birthday Alienore! I will pop over on the link provide in just a few minutes.

Thank you for the visit, I hope you will allow me to visit again.

Mollye said...

Oh Sheila I can just see Mr. Magpie shaking his head in complete disbelief and saying "that's my gal". I just love feeling a part of your fam. XXMollye

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

You tell the best stories with pictures in all of bloggland! I just hang on every word and picture!
Are you alienore's fairy godmother? You should be!
I always leave wih a big smile when I visit you!
Yvonne

Anonymous said...

I love this! I'm sitting here with a big grin on my face :D

You are always SO creative - I always look forward to seeing what you've cooked up for us.

Hugs!

Lisa

BECKY said...

Hi lovely friend! What a fun little party! Ill check the rest out later! Love the post on the blog party! We sure had a great time! You are definitely a charming hostess, Miss Sheila!!

I saw somewhere that you had a fall. I did that about 2-3 months ago at Renningers in Mt. Dora. My left knee still hasn't completely recovered! Praying for you my friend! We just don't heal as quickly as we used to, huh?

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!
I am really excited about getting up there sometime soon!! I'll be in touch!

Love you BUNCHES!!
Becky

the wild raspberry said...

the cool cats...you are always making me smile.

hope you have a wonderful weekend.

thanks for your prayers.

hugs~~
chasity

Emily said...

Jasmine! Do you have that growing in your yard?? How divine!

Darlene said...

How sweet. I am wishing her the best birthday ever!!!

Anonymous said...

Morning, Most Wonderful One! Oh, what a sweet post and Happy Birthday to your sweet friend, Alienore! What a glorious hostess you are. Look at those little bunnies helping you out with the cute little tea set! And there's Stella. I enjoyed having Stella at my house. Now you've had her quite a long time and I'll bet she's not wanting to go back to England! Now the jazz band! How cute - I think I can hear them playing 'When the Saints Go Marching On'! :)
Okay, now you alert me when the birthday cake comes out! I'll be there! :)
Love you, you most creative fun little think YOU!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia;)

Chatty Crone said...

Happy Birthday Patricia.

What a nice table set up for your friend. The perfect party. I love all your little friends who you have invited.

Love, sandie

Shellbelle said...

Oh, the party is fab, but the band is swinging. Such cuteness abounds around here today and it's always nice to see Miss Stella behaving herself!

(I didn't get your email, don't know why. Call me when you get the chance.)

Unknown said...

Shielia,
What a cute post for such a lovely event. You should seriously think of writing children's books. I just love your writing and beautiful images.

Happy weekend.

Karen

♥ Kathy said...

That was so sweet Sheila!! I loooove the band :) *big hugs*

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Hi Sheila! What a fun party! The Aristocats are there in spirit! I see that I missed a post...must go back to catch up about the guest of honor! Love your guests...each one so unique! And your tea set is just precious! I hope you are having a wonderful week!...hugs...Debbie

Ivory Spring said...

Sheila,

This is MOST darling! Are those bunnies Lefton? I used to have them, and used them as yard art in my first house. :)

That band is the PERFECT touch to the birthday party. I would have never thought to use a band from New Orleans... that's just clever of you!

claudie said...

Stephen has been waiting all this time to have his presents revealed?? OMG... he is a keeper Mrs. Magpie. What an awesome nephew.
You certainly need to put an add in to become the "NEW" party planner. Yes indeed. Another fabulous birthday celebration, but this time with all my favourite animals.
Ahhhhhh LOVED IT and YOU.
Love Claudie
xoxoxo
P.S. Randy is sitting under the tree, smoking a pipe and reading a book. It's a good day : )

nannykim said...

Love that jazz band! What a neat party!

Sam Hoffer / My Carolina Kitchen said...

Sheila, this would be fabulous in an illustrated children's book. You should seriously think about doing a book. Do we need to say pretty please?
Sam

nannykim said...

I did a little post for Alienor here: http://nannykim-nannykim.blogspot.com/2010/05/alienores-birthday.html

The Old Parsonage said...

Oh what a great little story to share your party!

Thanks for popping by!
Leann

D.O.S.A. said...

Bri will be delighted with your story and photos. When I gather some strength, I will show her.

Hope you are feeling good!

Brenda Pruitt said...

So many exciting things go on over at your house!
Brenda

Susan (Between Naps On The Porch.net) said...

Darling teaset...that lucky Alienore! Such a delightful B'day party!

Claudia said...

I must have missed your post about the birthday girl - I will have to go back and read it. What a wonderful party you throw, Sheila!

xo
Claudida

Janean said...

looks like they had a wonderful tea party!!!!

Betty said...

What a sweet little party!! How fun that your jazz band finally made a debut here. what a sweet gift from your godson!

Rettabug said...

Your creative mind astounds me, Shelia! I don't know how you come up with some of your stories but I certainly enjoy them. :-)
I also enjoyed seeing that darling tea set as well as all your pretty Herend pieces. Exquisite!

Tricia said...

What a beautiful story - and such a cute little dollie. We are heading from Scotland to England on this very day - I am so excited. It is my first journey abroad and we have been in Scotland for a wk. I hate to say good-bye, but can't wait to get to England. Thanks for sharing!

Blessings,
Tricia

Jacalyn @ rmebathproducts.com said...

Oh Happy Happy Birthday to your friend! The party looks fabulous!

Happy PS,
Jacalyn

Lindsay-ann said...

Hi Sheila
You really prepared a lovely party for Alienore. Don't you just love her name? Everything looked so cute and perfect. Stella doesn't miss a treat!
Hope you are having a good weekend.
Lindsay
x

Sandi@ Rose Chintz Cottage said...

'Morning Sheila,
Your post is so entertaining, my dear! Love the bunnies! Happy birthday to Alienore! Thanks for sharing and Happy Pinks.

Blessings,
Sandi

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

SHELIA DEAREST!
Oh thank you for your kind words on my post this morning! I am so blessed to received such kindness. AND YOUR BUNNIES ARE SOOOOOOO CUTE! I was aware that Papillon Bleu was having this contest and I was going to enter given that I draw, but the school work week just doesn't allow for time. You always have the most lovely, copious and rich blog post and it is such a pleasure to know you.

Enjoy this fabulous weekend! Anita

Marina Capano said...

I love your story, so fun and so cute!

xoxo

The Summer Kitchen Girls said...

Well, we are partial to jazz bands here - so bring that New Orleans swinging music on more often Mrs. M! OH....and we want to come to your house and play....! You just have too much fun Shelia!

dana said...

What a delightful party, but yours always are!! Is that little Stella back home, yet? She's been in the USA a long time....what an amazing trip she's had!

I enjoyed your comment just now on my post. I also hope to meet you one day in person!

Hope you have a wonderful Pink Sat!! L, Dana

Jojo said...

That is the sweetest tea set and some exquisite bunnies but nothing beats the jazz band, a gift of love.

Sarah said...

Sheila, this is too cute for words. You tell the sweetest stories, and it's such a treat to see you little treasures mixed in along the way. I'll try to get something together to help Aliénore celebrate her first birthday.
Have a great day! ~ Sarah

JoAnn ( Scene Through My Eyes) said...

What a charming party. You have the cutest things!!!

Suzie Button said...

What a lovely party and EVERYONE showed up! Beautiful! Happy Pink Saturday! Suzie

Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble Christmas said...

OMG!!! This was just the cutest darn post!! I LOVE your sweet little tea set and love all the guests at the tea!!

Charming!!

Debbie

Char said...

That is over the top perfect. How sweet and cute is that. Char

My name is Riet said...

What a beautiful pink Saturday post.Wonderful.
HAPPY PINK SATURDAY

Pam said...

I love your wonderful stories and the accompanying photos. You are so cleaver. The band and music are perfect.

Happy Pink Saturday.

Anonymous said...

That was fun! And the PS made it really neat! Loved the story! THanks for stopping by the other day and today. I was late late late (kinda fits into a story, doesn't it?) for Pink Saturday - actually only stopping by a very few places cuz I didn't realize I wouldn't have the time. Anyway, thanks and Happy Pink Saturday! Jenn

nannykim said...

Ps. oh, I saw you won a cookbook, congrats!

Terry said...

Howdy Sheila
Blessings to you and yours !
What a fabulous party .
I needed this more than I can say. Thank you for sharing this fantastic birthday party.
My Mom is responding well to her cancer treatments but has also been really ill and has begun the hair loss part which is sad to see,but she is alive :)
So we are glad for life and looking into scarves,wigs,etc...
May God bless you and all yours with many more birthday celebrations.
Your the greatest Magpie !!!!!!
Until next time
Happy Trails

CC said...

Hi dear,sweet Sheila..
I love,love,loved your post..ummmmm, did I mention I loved your post???? I so enjoyed the dear bunny party and the jazz band, well..they were just wonderful. I'm so proud that Stella was able to attend the party, it looks like great fun was had by all.
p.s. I loved the tea set and egg cup. Happy Pinks and have a great weekend.

Stephanie Suzanne Designs said...

Happy PiNk, Sheila...

What a marvelous party! No detail was spared..I'll go check out the link to the party so I can see more.

Have a wonderful PiNk filled day and the week to come.

Hugs,
Stephanie ♥

Patricia @ ButterYum said...

Happy Pink Saturday to you too! Thanks for stopping by - yes the teacup and saucer is Old Country Roses. My mother's favorite!

Congratulations on your recent blog giveaway win!

:)
ButterYum

Susie Jefferson said...

Hi Sheila - You're right, it was me introduced you! Patricia will be THRILLED you've mentioned her. Isn't she (and her blog) wonderful.

A lovely post (as always). Thanks so much for visiting, and a very Happy Pink Saturday!

Neinah Avelin said...

I love your blog, photos, and story..
Now I'm a fan and a follower...

Neinah

❀~Myrna~❀ said...

Such a wonderful celebration for Alienore !I love it all ,Your parties are always wonderful ,creative &fun !
Blessings,
~Myrna

Monica said...

So sweet, Sheila! You're a great story teller!!
Hugs,
Monicax.

Anonymous said...

Hi Shiela, love your jazz! The little musicians are sooo cute. What pretty bunnies, et al. Your confederate jasmine looks a lot like our star jasmine. Smells divine, doesn't it?! HPS~

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Hi Sheila, Thanks for coming to my blog. I am enjoying seeing your VERY CREATIVE blog.... Cute birthday part for sure---and I enjoyed seeing the blogger get-together also.

Have a great weekend and come back to my anytime.
Hugs,
Betsy

Katy Noelle said...

I've just spent a very, very pleasant half hour visiting with you on a lovely, quiet afternoon with a tall glass of iced tea taking a rest because I got ripped to shreds (tickled to death, is more like it) by 9 hysterically and adorably vicious puppies! Don't you just love run on sentences?! I know that I do!

Well, I enjoyed my visit so very well that I am just toddling off to add you to my list of blogs that I follow. First, however, I wanted to share with you all of the eloquent words that came to mind both from your posts and your comment regarding your families history! Cool!!! and WOW!!! I think that you understand what is truly magic and that you are a kindred spirit. I still, however, have no idea where St. Augustine is....

Love, katy Noelle

Martha@A Sense of Humor is Essential said...

These are amazing porcelain treasures for Pink Saturday. Thank you for sharing these delights and also your nice comment on my blog.

Katy Noelle said...

Do you know the blog "Sarah Jane, Down the Lane"? I think that you might enjoy it.

the teacher's pets said...

while reading this post I felt I was reading a page of a Beatrix Potter book! So playful and imaginative! Love the cat figurines, of course, since I adore animals; and I love the Jazz players!
Thanks for always leaving comments on my blog!

Anonymous said...

Hi Sheila, Your post and stories are also so entertaining and sweet! And a delight to read. xo Lynn

LV said...

One thing for sure, you really know how to throw a party. You did a super job putting all this together in a lovely pink showing. Thanks and also, I appreciate you visiting me.

cotedetexas said...

Awww!!! Soooooo cute! I want to join the bunnies in all .the fun.

Loved your kitchen comment. My favorite kitchen is Pam pierce. Donnas is a close second
Joni

Self Sagacity said...

cute story and set-up for this post. I thirst for good warm story like this once in while and to have received one today. Have a wonderful Saturday.

Kelee Katillac said...

Hi Sheila!

Awesome post and I love the jazz band!


What a neat and charming vignette!

love, kelee

Brenda ~ The Heminger Farmhouse said...

Hello :) I love this post!! So cute and adorable :)

Happy Pink Saturday! Warmest, Brenda

NicNacManiac said...

Such a talented story teller you are....that coupled with your wonderful styling techniques....WOW..this was a great post...loved the music and the debut of the band...fabulous!!
Happy Pink SAturday xOxO Nerina

Beansieleigh said...

What a CUTE post!! Love the tea set!.. and love the Cool Cats Jazz Band too! Happy Pink Saturday, and hope you're enjoying the gorgeous weekend! ~tina

bunny, The Paris House said...

Hello there sweet Sheila,
What an adorable post. I just think that is one lucky little doll to have you honor her 1st birthday with such a charming party. The Bunnies are so cute and I love the Jasmine, I think I can smell it all the way up here in NJ.
Hope all is well and I am so glad you like the cake pedestal.
Have a wonderful evening
xoxo
Bunny

bunny, The Paris House said...

Hello there sweet Sheila,
What an adorable post. I just think that is one lucky little doll to have you honor her 1st birthday with such a charming party. The Bunnies are so cute and I love the Jasmine, I think I can smell it all the way up here in NJ.
Hope all is well and I am so glad you like the cake pedestal.
Have a wonderful evening
xoxo
Bunny

Charo said...

So beautiful party, all is so cute!

Happy Pink Saturday!
Hugs
Charo

Anonymous said...

Okay... that was weird! But cute! Love the jazz singers!

Tara said...

This was the cutest post ever! Love the little teas set, perfect for a bunny tea party. Happy Pink Saturday!

xinex said...

You are the best story teller, Sheila. Do you write children's books? If not, you should. This is so cute. Happy birthday to Alienore...Christine

Dogmom Diva said...

Sheila, I love the party and the jazzband is the best, thank you for showing them to us!

Have a wonderful PS and rest of the week!

Barb

JEANNE said...

Hi Sheila, boy I am up late huh? As usual, Saturday is always a busy day for me or I am out of town. Bill is watching a late TV show so I am trying to visit for a few more minutes. The garden club sale was great. A long day and it rained. However, we made about $800. plus. A good day.

Your party is another success. The New Orleans band is wonderful. There was a successful debut I hope. Smile. The tea set and party cats were so cute. The bunnies too of course. I am beginning to know that you LOVE little things. I am sure Stella was happy to attend the party too. Another darling story and pics Sheila. I do love your imagination very much. I love you too.
I must say goodnight for now.
Love and hugs, Jeanne xoxo

Anonymous said...

HI Sheila

I absolutley adore your little bunny tea set. Wherever did you get it from?

Great blog - Al x

Papillon Bleu said...

I was wondering if Stella could actually spend a bit of time with us....

It is so great to be able to interact with people like you!

I love the bunnies!
You are soooooooo funny!

XoXo

Sherry from Alabama said...

What a cute post! I love all your pretties. Thank you for visiting me on Pink Saturday this week.

Sherry @ A Happy Valentine

Tammy@Simple Southern Happiness said...

Hello there. I was looking for your follow button, I do see it. Maybe I need new glasses.

Hope you had a good Pink Saturday. I know I did...Cant wait till the party next Saturday.

Rettabug said...

Shelia, I just read on Jane's blog that you had fallen & are pretty sore. I'm so sorry to hear that! Take some Tylenol & REST!! Hope nothing is broken.

gentle hugs,
Rett

Beverly said...

Happy Pink Saturday, Sheila.

What a wonderful surprise party. Everyone contributed to a wonderful celebration, and the jazz band was the perfect accompaniment.

I've been holding you close in my heart.

{Bellamere Cottage} said...

Oh my Sweet Sheila....you sure know how to put on a party!....as always.

Loved all of your guests...particularly the jazz band...how special to have a special gift from your little godson...it's so special when they actually spend their own money, isn't it?

Loved the party....and YOU...


xoxoxoxo
Spencer

CailinMarie said...

what a fun story! and darling guests at this party! very charming!
CailinMarie

Shirl said...

Hello Sheila, I'm still making my Pink Saturday visits. Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a sweet comment. Love your pink post this week. I love jasmine, mine is just starting to bloom. I have to really baby it and bring it inside during the WV winters. What a darling story and teaset!
Blessings, Shirl
Shirls Rose Cottage

Mari said...

HELLO,
OMG EVERYTHING IS JUST BEAUTIFUL, I LOVE YOUR SWEET BUNNY TEA SET AND HOE PERCIOUS IS THOSE BUNNIES!!! :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Sheilaness! Oh, I think I can still hear music! Wait! Yes, I can...it's jazz! That little band is still playing! I've just got to get over to this tea party! :)
Hope you've had a great weekend.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

How wonderful! It is like falling into a fairy tale when I come visit here!

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

How wonderful! It is like falling into a fairy tale when I come visit here!

susan said...

Your bunnies deserved the day off for such a special occasion. Isn't confederate jasmine the most fragrant thing in the world? And oh my, is that Herend I see??? I read your comment at Brenda's --I AM one of those people who can't figure out how to follow--I would like to because it shows up on my rol and I don't miss posts :) Is it hidden, is there a password, a secret door or handshake? :)

susan said...

I'm back-that is the cutest video. Love the Pretty Woman music!!! She is very talented!

Vicki said...

Hello, Ms. Sheila,
And thank you for letting me be a part of your birthday celebration for your little friend. Of course, you know I adore those little bunnies. Have a happy weekend, dear friend! Sending lots of love your way~ Vicki

JLS Hall (Joysweb) said...

Another wonderfully creative post! And I just love all those kitties. Hope you have some lovely adventures in the week ahead. Be happy!

FLOWERSHOPGURL said...

Hi Sheila, That is the sweetest post, love it all, especially the band! You throw quite a party! Thank you for visiting and leaving your kind comment on my "A LITTLE BIT OF RED LOVE; I flipped my Lid"!I hope you have a chance to come by for a little visit and view my Pink Saturday; Sweet "PINK" Pillow and plates display!
Hugz,
Kim

JEANNE said...

Sheila, thank you so much for prayers for little Gabe. I am so worried for him. His condition is dire.

I hope you are mending from your fall. I try so hard to watch where I am walking. Falling is scary at my age. I am so sorry you had to suffer my dear friend.

Blessings and love,
Jeanne

Anne Fannie said...

Hi Sheila, your imagnation is unbelievable! I always enjoy visiting your blog!
Happy Belated Pink SAturday!
Ann

FLOWERSHOPGURL said...

So funny, had to stop back by and thank you for visiting and leaving your "Sweet" comments on my My "PINK" Pillow! I had never seen such a cute color burlap, who would ever guess they would have pink, such cuteness! I'll be watching for you in case your swoop and for the steal. That gave me quite a chuckle. Thanks for making my day!
Hugz,
Kim

SmilingSally said...

I'm so glad that the jazz band finally got their 15 minutes of fame! They're so whimsical!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

You know Miss Sheila, since your grandpa was born in Wisconsin you have roots here! I think you need to come visit and I'll be your tour guide!
Lot's of cool Frank Lloyd Wright here!
Hugs, Cindy

Darlene said...

Morning....just stopped by to say you are welcome to come for dinner ANY TIME!!! Also, if you are ever in Oklahoma you better!!!!!♥

Lorrie said...

Hi Sheila, I read this post the other day and then got interrupted before I could leave a comment. Your jazz band is just terrific. Never seen anything like them before, and they sure are special, just perfect for a birthday party. I savored each of your pictures because they make me feel like I've taken a little trip.

I didn't know that you took a fall? What happened? I sure hope that you're making a good recovery dear Sheila.

Wishing you a wonderful week down in Florida.

Anonymous said...

Sheila, We are heading to St Augustine in the morning, we would love to hear what we need to make sure we see!! If you see this tonite, please give me some ideas!! Thanks so much, Sue

Anonymous said...

Another birthday party that was filled with friends and fun! :-)

Alienore is one lucky girl. Love the bunny tea set and the jazz band is adorable. What a sweet, sweet gift Sheila.

I haven't been participating on PS for a while now. Time flies fast with it celebrating it's 2nd birthday :-)

Mizpah,
Li

Chari at Happy To Design said...

Hi Sheila...

Ohhh...how absolutely delightful!!! I loved being a part of your birthday surprise party for Alienore!!! I just adore your little bunnies and the bunny tea set...they just make my heart smile! What fun!!!

Well my friend, I just wanted to come by to say thank you for stopping in and taking a peek at my Faeries tablescape! I really enjoyed your sweet note...thank you, Sheila!!!

Have a wonderful week, Darlin'!
Chari @Happy To Design

JEANNE said...

Good morning Sheila, I didn't get back to everyone yesterday. Thank you so much for your sweet comment about Christina and my hot pants photo. I laughed too when I found it. Someone said I looked like Wonder Woman. Now, that really made me laugh. That outfit was two pieces and I remember I bought it because it was close to the 4th of July.

I hope all is well with you and your dh. I know that fall really threw you for a loop. Rest up and relax my dear friend.

Love you, xoxo
Jeanne

Sue@MyArtsDesire said...

Hello Sheila!
Here's some great insight into the depths of my middle-aged affliction with something...ADD? Menopause?!...but I actually visited you early on Saturday and got carried away clicking on this and clicking on that in your recent posts, and then got called away before leaving a comment! So good to see you back in the land of posting. Hopefully that means that your "housework" is all finished and all went well. Loved the story about your little band ensemble...purchased with his own allowance...oh, warm my heart! Someone loved his Sheila! xo Sue