Thoughts for Friday

Here we are staring another Summer Friday in the face.  This Summer Friday, however, marks the 3rd anniversary of my sister Nikki's passing.

Pictured: Nikki and my son, Alec.

Nikki was only 38 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.  She was just a couple weeks shy of her 46th birthday when she passed away.

As with the past couple years, this year we will light a candle to remember and celebrate her short life.

I have a few things I'd like to get to this weekend as well, starting with finishing my back porch project.

We've made a lot of progress and I should be able to post the complete reveal next week.

I've also picked up a couple items free on the sidewalk lately.  This umbrella stand I have needed for a couple years and was too cheap to buy new.  I figured I'd find one at a garage sale or something.  I never expected to pick up one free though!

I sanded the rust spots and painted it red and it now holds my clothes line. It's a lot heavier and sturdier than the one I was using.  I can now use that one to hold my table umbrella.

On a whim, Jeff picked this bird cage up free on the sidewalk.  It works perfectly to keep Audrey from eating my house plants.  Seriously, what is with that?  She's adorable but I'm getting a little tired seeing my plants destroyed and her looking all innocent about it....I mean, at least fess up to it, Audrey!

The online store is now stocked with Peppermint Menthol and Honey Safflower Goats' Milk soap.

Honey Safflower is a favorite among many of my clients and the Peppermint Menthol is a rising star, so get a few bars while they last!

And finally, I want to leave you with a link that Nikki would have loved.  I have no doubt, if she were still alive, she would have contributed several photos to this feed.