MERCY!!! I can’t believe it’s been over a month since we were together.  I’ve realized having a blog should really be a full-time job.  I’ve had lots to talk about and lots of photos to share but finding the time…there’s the challenge.  I do have some things to share and you can look forward to future blogs as we have a trip to NYC in eight days and the big wedding is just sixteen days away.  The next two weeks are packed.  Thus, I’m trying to play catch up.

 

 

We honored our friend Linda’s retirement with drinks and nibbles.  She’s way too young to retire but it was a great reason to get together.

 

Believe it or not…we finally started the farm-house project…a month ago.  These photos are from the Saturday we moved out of the house.  Our friend Patsy has pestered me from day one in regards to my lack of support for “The Whistle Stop”.  So, Patsy here you are.  We had the best WS has to offer.  Of course, Brandt had breakfast, I had a the burger and fries and one of our helpers had Country Fried Steak.  It gives new meaning to “hanging with the locals” and when the right cook is there it’s some good southern fare.  With the new interstate going through Byhalia we are beginning to see other choices. I’ll keep you posted if I find them to be more blog worthy that WS.

 

The house that Brandt aka Jimmy grew up in was certainly due for a facelift.

But early in the remodel process we realized the termites had caused more damage than expected.  We’ve ordered the plans for the new house and hope to begin construction mid-July.

 

The chimney was built in the 1800’s.  We plan to use bricks from it for a fire pit and some outdoor tables.  When all is said and done the house number, bathtub and whirly vent will find places in the landscape, as well.

Of course, all our valuable things came to the loft.  As Brandt was cleaning out the house he made a throw away pile, a give away pile and a keep pile.  His mom won the Shelby County Talent Contest in 1991 and her trophy was in the keep pile.  Knowing I didn’t want a trophy sitting around…it’s now a lamp in the corner of our living space at the loft…complete with the eighth note finial.  Stay tuned for construction progress reports.

  

Tupelo has yet another restaurant with food that is just downright good.  SOUTH…if momma don’t want to cook!!!

I did a tablescape for the annual Theatre Memphis fund-raising gala.  There was no theme but it was theatre and I live with a Broadway veteran so I honored him along with choreographers Gower Champion and Michael Bennett. I didn’t get to attend the event but from all reports it was lovely and a good time was had by all.

  

Instead of going to the TM Gala I went to Vegas for a board meeting.  We had time for dinner and a show at The Mandalay Bay.  We tried Rick Moonen’s Rx Boiler Room and One. I’m glad we did it but I don’t have to go back.  Over the top ambience in Steampunk style…complete with costumed servers.  Creative but extremely limited menu. Everything we ordered was tasty.  It was just one of those places that’s gone one step too far.  Again, I would recommend it but just for fun…especially if you’re going to see Michael Jackson ONE…a great Cirque show.

Look who is no longer a farm kitty.  Diva came to the loft.  We inherited Diva when Brandt’s mom passed away.  She was always second fiddle to Toby and has always been an indoor/outdoor cat.  Since there is no indoor at the farm anymore we didn’t feel like it was fair to leave her outside until the construction is over.  This is her on my knee being the Diva she is.  I’m not sure she will be happy going back to the farm.  She’s even begun to explore the outdoors around the loft…and seems very happy.

We stayed home for Memorial Day and did Eggs, Country Ham, Grits, Biscuits and Red-eyed gravy for breakfast and ribs for dinner.  Pretty good dining for a Staycation.

We have a new addition to the Edwards family.

Olivia Emerson was born to Jennifer and Brandt (my Brandt’s namesake) Edwards on May 28, 2014.  As you can see she is precious and is being adored by all the family.

 

These are just teasers.  I’ve been telling you about The Antler in Tupelo and the upcoming wedding.  It’s up and running and we are looking forward to having a FABULOUS wedding reception there.  The ambience is spectacular and soon you’ll get to see what it looks like when dressed in wedding finery.

Okay, you are sufficiently caught up.  I hope summer is finding your house lovely and that you are finding opportunities for a good time to be had by all.