Monday, July 6, 2009

HAPPY 6th of JULY

Have you ever wondered what are the telltale signs that a blogger has been out celebrating with a little too much enthusiasm?

Perhaps one of the signs is when their Fourth of July post doesn’t get posted until the 6th!
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I originally planned to share a few of my favorite summer paintings by bloggers who paint. (By Erin Houghton of The Painted Garden)

And a book by Diane C. Arkins
Diane was one of my writers when I edited Country Collectibles magazine. Her latest book perfectly captures the essence of this patriotic holiday in prose, poetry, decorating, party ideas, games and menus. The Glorious Fourth of July may be ordered by calling 800-843-1724.

But then I got sidetracked.
(By Erin Houghton of The Painted Garden)

Fast forward to July 3rd when my July 4th celebrations kicked off a day early with a bbq with all the trimmings (including a Good Humor truck) and fireworks at a friend's Country Club.
On the 4th, I was lucky enough to view the “official” Washington DC fireworks from the ballroom of the Sheraton National where I celebrated the wedding of Kristen and Rob.
The reception ballroom had a spectacular view of the Pentagon and The national Mall.

Kristen and I first met when she started coming to Jazzercise class with her mom. She was in high school at the time.

Although her mom and I are closer in age, the three of us have had a blast together choosing a wedding cake, giggling during the wedding rehearsal, and sorting out dozens of details to guarantee their special would be truly special.

The ceremony was at historic Fort Myer, which traces its origin as a military post to the Civil War. It overlooks Arlington National Cemetery.
The Old Post Chapel where the ceremony took place is located on land confiscated from Robert E. Lee's estate.

Nearly every American President and many other persons of influence from around the world have attended services at Fort Myer's Old Post Chapel.
Fast forward to July 6th: By noon today, I had completely recovered from the festivities and was out of bed and dressed when a UPS truck rolled down my driveway.

I was so relieved when he said there were stacks of boxes for me from Gibbs Smith on the truck that I could have kissed the driver.
After I autographed each copy, the entire household helped by lovingly wrapping the books, placing them in padded envelopes and driving them to the post office.

Yes you can get writers cramp from signing too many copies in an afternoon! So, I still have more to send out tomorrow.

CONGRATULATIONS to Gale of She Shoots Sheep Shots.
You are the lucky winner of a free copy of Waterside Cottages.

*** BLOG DU JOUR ***

Belgium chose today's blog. It's The Katillac Shack. His photo wasn't posted yet the last time he checked, but Kelee promised him it would be there real soon.

14 comments:

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

I am so thrilled that your books have arrived and one special one is on its way to me!

That wedding looks like it was just wonderful.
Penny

Drawn to The Sea said...

Pretty cake! And a truly beautiful bride, what a doll.

I think I see my book in that stack ;-)

Drawn to The Sea said...

Or, more correctly, my COPY of the book :-)

Unknown said...

The wedding looked so elegant and sounds like you had a great time. Very happy to hear your shipment arrived safe and sound.

Your poor wrist, take care not to overdo.

Congrats to the lucky winner of your book.

Tina

Susie Q said...

My book arrived today!! I didn't know there was another way to get it...with you signing it? Phooey! But heck. I am just so happy to get it! Have only had a brief chance to peek but I LOVE it already!!

Love,
Sue

NeereAnDear said...

Congratulations to the winner of your book.... such a lucky person she is...!!!

I am waiting with baited breath for my book to arrive...

How exciting!!

LOTS OF HUGS
JO

NeereAnDear said...

I got my book today!!! wooooo hooooo!!!!

I am going to do some major reading tonight...

Have fun on your trip...

ALSO... meant to tell you that Forty Meyer used to be one of my favorite haunts when I turned 18 ... ah but you have brought back some major memories for me

LOTS OF HUGS AGAIN
JO

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I am really enjoying your blog! I found it by visiting Penny today! Your book looks wonderful! Congrats on it!

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

PS I am a BIG fan of Erin! She is an amazing artist! Your blog is just great! I love all your photos!

Tutti Chic said...

Looks like such a lovely wedding barbara~beautiful bride & groom!
I am so thrilled that your long awaited book has arrived! I am firing off a check to you for my own autographed copy! I can't wait to get my hands on it! :) chris

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Congrats on your new book, Barbara! I know it was a long time coming & that has to be exciting. I can't wait to see a copy of it.

Daisy Cottage said...

Dear Barbara,

My day was made today when I went to the post office and YOUR BEAUTIFUL BOOK was there waiting for me! Oh my! It is absolutely gorgeous - seriously gorgeous! Every single page is eye candy delicious - I can't wait to read each story and caption and plan on staying up late tonight to do so. What a dream of a book! Real life cottages that inspire and take us away! Sigh. You and Dan are an amazing team and this book is going to be a treasured keepsake FOREVER. Thank you!

Waterside Cottages is a must-have for any cottage soul. Bravo! I am SO very thrilled for you.

Warmly,
Kim

Jobs said...

She looks so happy in her wedding dress. I wish you all the best in your new life as a couple. Congratulations!!!

Sweet Cottage Dreams said...

I cannot wait to get your new book!!! We were just in Carmel and admiring all of the cottages there! Do you think that I could be one up at a Borders?

Lovely wedding and that cake is gordeous, but not as gorgeous as the bride herself!!!!


xoxo
becky