happy momma's day...

So happy to finally share this post with you all!

I received more submissions than I anticipated over the past week

(special thank you to my momma who has 

TONS of family photographs at her fingertips 

and contributed many memories).

I worked on this post late last night...and into the early morning.

...working on it through tears as I studied the photos and read the stories.  

So many lovely ladies who created beautiful lives for their families.

It has been my pleasure to put this post together, 

and I thank you for taking the time to share.

Enjoy this mother's day...

-S

A FIVE generation photo 

submitted by Amy Ormes

The baby is my daughter, Jamie. She is being held by her Great Great Grandma Myrtle. 

Standing is Jamie's Nana Connie; her mother, Amy (me); and her Great Grandma Christine. 

This picture was taken in March 1989.

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Florence and her children...Annie and Kenny

submitted by Melissa Martin 

This photo made when we all met out at her house where she was raised.  I took Steph out for a visit Mrs. Askew.  Annie and Steph were the cutest little bald headed girls we had ever seen.  We lost touch over the years, but recently reconnected on FB and able to see these two beautiful daughters that have grown up....along with the boys.  

Florence lost her sweet mother a little over a year ago.  I know she misses her dearly....She and her hubby have just made a move back to their family farm out in the edge of Kentucky.  I think that is an awesome testament to how strong those good memories of growin' up on the family farm can be.

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Kathy and her son, Davis.

submitted by Melissa Martin 

Cute little blonde haired boy that has grown up!  We all had sweet babies about the same time, but Davis was about 2-3 years old when Steph was born.  In looking through pics, saw those cute little pics too of newborn Steph with Davis holding her, he was so sweet and gentle with her.  Just saw a recent pic of Davis, his wife and Kathy in front of Davis' home.  I know Kathy is so proud of him and hope she gets a grandbaby soon cause there 'ain't' nothing like it.  

Kathy also lost her momma a few years back....I know she misses her so much.  I would always love to hear Miss Martha say 'Kathy' in her sweet, southern draw.
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Polly and Ashleigh

submitted by Melissa Martin 

I just recently saw a grown up version of this same photo.  Polly and Ashleigh look so much alike.  Ash has been so strong for Polly to lean on during her recent battle with cancer.  

Think the world of both of them.  She is a busy bee worker just like her mama too. :)
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Kathy and Michael 
submitted by Michael Maiocco Jr.

Thanks for being my mom.
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Wanda Schrecker

submitted by Melissa Martin

It's funny in looking back at these photos how mom enjoyed funny things, she loved crazy clothes, fun events (Crazy day photos from her job, the snazzy cowboy outfit).  It was rare to see her relaxing (like the pose on the couch) as I didn't know her to slow down much.  Mom loved fun.
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Aunt Christine over at Grandma Myrtle's house (Marion, KY) 

submitted by Melissa Martin

Aunt Chris loved her reading and you can see a book on her lap.  She kicked back, was relaxed, so kind and mellow....I remember a time with her at our mall...a young mother was fussing (and struggling) with her young children while standing in the middle of the mall....Aunt Christine approached her very calmly and asked if she could help her with anything.  I just thought that was so kind of her, so the young mother stopped and regrouped, Christine just smiled and talked with her a moment...and then we walked on.  I just see that moment this many years later...what a kind, simple thing to do.  

We need more Aunt Christine moments.

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Eunice Simpson and Kathy 

submitted by Kathy Maiocco

The smell of Jerkens lotion on the breeze takes me back in time when I can hear your laugh & feel your arms around me. I miss you and feel your love around me every day.

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submitted by Melissa Martin 

I guess we've always done group photos...

this first one I made at the house (I think 1977, Michelle was a baby).  

That's Wilma C, Mom, Grandma, Jan and baby M. having a coffee.  

This was the kitchen I grew up in and seeing it brings back a lot of memories.  

Love Jan's beret.

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submitted by Melissa Martin

Grandma Myrtle and the crew ...

2nd group shot had to be about 1988-1989 looking at Steph and Josh.  

A classic group shot with older teenagers looking bored stiff.  

I loved shooting black and white film.

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submitted by Melissa Martin

I'm including today this pic of Aunt Janice...as you can see in the pic...lots of stuff in jeep.  This was a collection of items that we took down to Alabama after the tornado that hit the area 2 years ago.  The family gave loads of things that were needed as they didn't have power for a week.  Our last stop before heading out was Jan's.  Of course she had everything from Camel cigs to Jack Daniels...books, cards, gift cards, etc...but that's just Aunt Janice and it doesn't take a tornado to have her giving....she is always giving.  I'm very blessed to have such wonderful Aunts....especially when they wear Wizard of Oz red shoes!!! 

The 2nd photo of Jan shows her after Rachel's wedding at the Smith Trahern.  She is at home in history (as you can see her sitting in the rocker on the porch of the historic home).  She loves traveling through the hills of Kentucky and visiting the old farm.

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submitted by Doris Davie

I remember the smell of that ol' smokehouse 

and all the good food that came from it.  

I miss you Mom & Mammy (dad's mom).  

Hold a seat at Heaven's table for me!

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submitted by Mike Maiocco Sr.

My mother - Margaret Ann

One time when I was very young I had a terrible fever.

As my mom lightly brushed my forehead with a cool washcloth she said, 

"If I could be sick for you I would do it."

I will never forgot that generous offer only a mother would make.

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Eunice Barineau Simpson

Submitted by Buddy Simpson

Mom, it has been four long years since you left this world, but speaking
for me and also my five sisters there is not a day that we all don't think
about you and miss talking with you.  

Mom, you were the greatest mom in the world to us. 

Mom, your son and daughters 

Love and Miss you. 

Till we meet in

heaven.

*

Grandma.

submitted by Melissa Martin

I can hear her when I look at this photo.  I wished there was another trip to Foodtown or to driving her to get her hair done.  Grandma had always been grandma to all of us...but she moved to Clarksville shortly after mom died.  She was such good company for us after that sadness.  She was here for the birth of both my children (as she was for many of the new babies being born).  She called my Stephanie, "Daphne" even writing it on a card that one of those famous dollars were stuck in.   We loved stopping by Castle Heights or Davidson Dr. for a visit...wished I had one more of those stops.  

Our Myrtle the Turtle was extra special.  

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My sister (inlaw, but we don't use that with her), Faye.

submitted by Melissa Martin

I remember meeting her for the first time at the skating rink....Mike brought her and they picked me up while on a date.  She was so sweet to me and promised she would take me back skating....Faye, you owe me! 

These photos sum you up....the forever teacher-look filming (nice camcorder) Susannah's graduation...and Bec having a fun smear with you....looks like smearing runs in the family since Mike and you got some at the Monteagle party.  

Happy Mother's Day to you.  Love.

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My sister Angela

submitted by Melissa Martin

Well....what can I say, except for the following:

I love you and you can see by the pics, that other half (tall, dark Indian) that is missing from our daily lives, but not missing from our hearts.  There is not one without the other.  

Happy Mother's Day sissy...thanks for being there for me.  

Love you.

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Granny and Michael

submitted by Michael Maiocco Jr.

I miss you so much Granny. I can't wait to hear you voice again.

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Daddy and Uncle Carl with Mamaw Schrecker...looks like Mase.

submitted by Melissa Martin

Mamaw died when I was young, but I can still remember 

'tall' lemon meringue pies cooling on a small antique table by her front door.  

The smell was wonderful and the image everlasting. 

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Grandma Myrtle...

submitted by Melissa Martin

Well, what can I saw but my stand in momma after losing mine 

and so good to my babies.  

I needed that guidance at that time.  

She was loved by so many...and she would set us straight today!

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My mother-in-law, Dorothy

submitted by Melissa Martin

Also, another mother to me when mom died.  She was always so good to me (and us).  She loved like no other, was proper, smart and well-mannered.  She loved her grandchildren, Annalise, Nathan and Stephanie.  She would have been so proud of Owen and Alex too.  I can hear her now telling how Bailey's boys would be just like him and laughing and laughing....We miss her.  She loved Clarksville Academy from her days as one of the founders...having the library named after was such an honor for her and for all of us, we KNOW how much she loved TCA!!!  

Happy Mother's Day Mrs. Martin.

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submitted by Melissa Martin

Happy Mother's Day to you Stephanie.  

Sweetness is blessed to have you as his momma.  

I've included only one pic and that pretty much sums up your motherhood to me...

caring, teaching, giving up your time and loving....

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Anne, Mary, Lizzie, Susie. Grandmother Margeret taken December '70

submitted by Michael Maiocco

Grandmother Margeret Maiocco in front with her sisters 

December 1970 (Anne, Mary, Lizzie, Susie).
I can't wait to meet these beautiful women someday. 

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Aunt Fay C

submitted by Melissa Martin

Had to steal this beautiful pic off her FB page.  She is the absolute best chocolate cake baker ever and has some of the prettiest and most handsome grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  I remember when they lived here in C'ville.  She worked at the First Baptist Activities Building.  It was new and cool.  We got to go every day one summer with her to 'work'.  We played while she worked.  Great memories Fay C.

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submitted by Melody Coppage

a classic 1975ish picture! 

Wanda brought Grandma Myrtle to Chattanooga for a visit.

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submitted by Melissa Martin

This one is for our cousin, Patty...pic is of Patty holding her Evan.  

It's a total comfy baby photo, and I love those.   

We think of Evan always and know his momma does too.  

Love you Patty.  

Thinking of you this Mother's Day.

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submitted by a dog lover

Last photo I'm gonna post is one of momma Dolly with puppies.  

Mommyhood doesn't only exist for us.  

I like this pic because Dolly is 'smiling' and so proud of her babies.

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And for our mother, no picture needed cause you've seen a few, 
her cowboy outfit at work, 
her housecoat pose outside 
and the numerous other ones posted (who can forget the Judy Garland look)...
I've been so excited over this project this week.  
I dedicate it to you mom.  
We know you watch over us from the heavens above.  
Happy Mother's Day! 
Love to all mothers.
-Melissa
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okay, just one more!


happy, happy momma's day to you...
Mason's Granny.

thank you for showing me the value in having a 
meaningful conversation with a good cup of coffee.
a much better lesson than teaching me how to sew. :)
love YOU.
*


happy
momma's
day 
to many.

photo submissions needed...

So Mother's Day is less than a week away, y'all...  

and I'm thinking about sharing a special post next Sunday, but I need your help - 

I want YOUR photographs!  

I want a photograph of your Momma (or Granny or Sissy or special lady in your life).  

You can be in the pic, too. 

If you want to write a little something to add as a caption - feel free, but it won't be required.  

DO include names of those pictured from left to right.  

*This is NOT a contest - just a simple way to celebrate the lovely ladies in our lives - past and present.

You can submit your photographs to: stephanie.maiocco@gmail.com.  

Please, only submit a photo that you have full rights to sharing.  

All photos will all be published on one, single blog post on Mother's Day...  

The deadline is 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11th!  

I cannot wait to see YOUR pictures...

and by the way, 

I have no idea who the ladies (or the doggie) are in the photo above.  

it's just an old photo I have from an antique store.

I thought it needed some love, so I brought it to my home and put it in a frame.

happy monday.

-S

old wooden chair+flowers project.

Several weeks ago, I posted a tiny snapshot of a little project we were working on...

We have an old, wooden chair that has been around this farmhouse for a long, long time.

The seating has fallen through, so it's not "functional."

But I still love it.

And refuse to throw it away.

I still display it in random places throughout the yard.

It's just a cute, old thing, so it stays.

Anyway, one day on my facebook newsfeed, I came across 

an old, rocking chair that had been upcycled as a way to hold flowers.

I immediately wanted to attempt this project with the old, wooden chair...

The husband helped, by cutting chicken wire 

and using zip-ties, he attached the basket type design to the chair.

We placed some burlap shreds directly on the chicken wire...

added potting soil...

planted some little flowers...

tossed in some moss...

and boom.

a super cute flower chair.

I love it.

Do you have any neat ways you display your flowers?

Please, share them...

-S

momma bird.

You know that sweet, little momma I told you about this past weekend...

who was protecting her babies during all of that rain...

here she is:

She stayed on those eggs throughout most of that crazy rain!

The husband (mine - not hers :) ) went out and draped a branch over the nest...

just to help her out some.

We both felt kinda bad for ruining her perfect nest location 

since we had "trimmed" the shrub thing.

Anyway, she welcomed the break, because she left for a little bit.

But then, of course, she was back.

Figured I'd share a photo of momma though.  

She needed to get credit for being such a trooper.

*

Also, lots of posts planned for this month...

some detail changes with Creek Junk...

and as I've prepared a few future posts,

there is more of an unintentional focus on nature, 

especially with photographs...? 

I guess Earth Day inspired me.

but y'all just hang tight.

good stuff will be shared.

happy may. :)

-S

pretty little things.

Last weekend, we did some yard work around the house...

The husband "trimmed" a hedge/shrub/whatever this thing is that grows like crazy 

in front of our deck...

After "trimming" a lot back, the husband said, "There's a nest on top."

Neither of us could see into it, but we figured it was probably empty...

This past week, when nugget and I were outside, I took a little twig and poked 

inside the nest.

tap. tap.

I hit eggshells. :)

So, I got my camera and blindly took a few pics ::

just holdin' the camera way up above my head and aiming in a general direction 

to hopefully get a good photograph.

I did a little jig after getting one I knew would be worth sharing.

{such pretty little things all neatly placed in the intricately built nest.}

It's rainin' here this mornin', so momma birdie is having to sit on them.

Momma's everywhere do so much for their babies. :)

Enjoy the rest of your Saturday...

-S

Easter.

I've had these pics saved in a draft...waiting for a good minute to sit down and write you.  So, here I am...on a "late" Friday night sharing Easter photos from a couple weeks ago.

I just want to say, I miss you.  I miss writing.  I miss sharing lots of stuff going on in my life, even if you don't read every, single word or study every, single picture.  I've missed blogging, and I certainly hope to begin writing more once I complete this Spring semester in graduate school.  Just a few more weeks...

Anyway, we had a fun Easter with our little family...so thankful for another family get-together at this old farmhouse...

LOVED these brown eggs!  I will definitely be buying more of these little beauties.

the Easter meal. :)

my sweet little Easter bunny gettin' eggs!  with his wild hair. :D

family at Easter. :)

my sweetness all dressed up before Easter service.  We literally threw his outfit together Easter morning...His hat was from his Grandma Kat, shirt and tie from a "black bag" (hand-me-downs), and pants from his baptism.  I thought it all went together nicely. :)

He reminds me so much of my Grandfather Ed and cousin Jake in this photograph...

I just love that face.

*

happy weekend.

-S

p.s. You'll notice you are no longer able to post a comment via blogger.  For whatever reason, our blog had started to receive a lot of spam.  So, I decided to temporarily deactivate the comment section for a little bit.  Sorry for any inconvenience. :)