THE EVENING STITCHER

NEW BLOG WITH A "THE" ...

2011-04-06T10:09:00.002-05:00

After having so many issues with my template and posting and then things dissappearing I have opened a new blog..same name...just with the word "The" in front of it..So if you could all be so kind to change my new blog to your blog list, I would appreciate it! Thank you!!

The Evening Stitcher

http://theeveningstitcher.blogspot.com/

I REALLY GOOFED UP

2011-04-05T22:00:00.003-05:00

Well...I really did it this time. I tried to use the templates that BLogger has to offer and I totally wiped out my blog. I can't get my "design" button back, I can't get my other pictures back. It's such a mess. I have been working on it all evening. I'm thinking of closing this blog and starting another one so I can use the kind of backgrounds I want...I don't know why things have to be so difficult! Oh well...tomorrow is another day!!

2011-04-04T19:26:00.004-05:00

I finally finished my anniversary rug..yippee!! I edged it with 100% wool yarn in a black brown, pressed it and it's ready to hang. I'm always anxious to move on to the next project, even though I hook rather slowly. I hooked the entire rug in a 9 cut. And I must say...I really really love the reversible charcoal wool. The different shades of the brown/black make your rug look so antique. This was such a fun rug to hook..easy!

TRYING TO POST...AGAIN

2011-03-19T20:41:00.008-05:00

The other evening, I tried and tried to post on my blog..but the text kept disappearing..then it would show up in the strangest places...oh well..going to try again! This is a rug that I started a little over a month ago. I designed it myself, with the year 1972..the year I was married. It is a tombstone shape, hooked with colors that are not in my usual color palette..but I have become more and more attracted to different shades of blue and ....gulp.....turquoise! I am using a number 9 cut. As you can see..I have two completely different colors for 1972. I couldn't decide it I liked the black or the grey. I'm kind of leaning toward the grey..I think it compliments the turquoise urn..but I'll probably wait until I have completed the background.

MANTLE IDEAS

2011-03-06T04:53:00.010-06:00

Well..nothing new to report here. After having bronchitis and not working for a week, I had to catch up on all kinds of things around the house this past week..but I still feel like I have been hit by a semi! This weekend I have had nothing but wedding and baby showers..so still, I am unable to really get anything done. I am in such a mood to paint, rearrange, and redecorate. I need to lighten things up. I went to Hobby Lobby yesterday morning and bought a few things to change the look of my mantle. Not a big fan of HL, plus they are a little pricey, unless they have a 50% sale..and I really hate the fact that everything they sell....and I MEAN EVERYTHING is made in China. But...I needed a quick fix. Now..after buying some black wrought iron wall sconces..my back wall needs a paint job. Right now it is a dark blue (my husband's choice three years ago) and I have fought with that color ever since...nothing really stands out on it..all you see is the dark blue..My other walls are a taupey-beige..so I think I am going for two shades of a darker taupe and then I will paint my mantle either the same or the color of my other walls..whatever I decide..it's only paint! Here are a couple of mantle and wall ideas that I think may work. These are NOT pictures of my living room..these were taken from a search engine of "Mantle decorating" from Yahoo. Lots and lots of ideas!

These may be a little too white and bright...but they are beautiful!

MY OLD RUGS

2011-02-23T03:12:00.006-06:00

I have been home sick with bronchitis for the past three days...can you tell...two posts within 24 hours! Feeling like I have a 90 year old set of lungs...I am still able to get on the computer..amazing..LOL! These are some of my older rugs that I had taken pictures of but were to lazy to post and now at 4 AM..unable to sleep..here goes:

The eagle rug was one of the first rugs I had ever made...I think it was my second one to be exact. I had it in hiding, because the kitties used to love to use it as a clawing rug. I had to make several repairs..now it hangs on the wall.

This small grouping, hangs in my sewing room. The two little cat rugs I adapted from antique rugs I had seen in a book, THe long narrow flower baskets rug is a design from Kindred Spirits. The small pumpkin rug was hooked and purchased from Sherry Kristoff last fall.

I'm in the process of hooking a rug, my own design, using some really different colors than I am used to. I am hoping to have it hooked soon...having some background difficulties. My creative juices just don't seem to flow like they used too!

MY DAUGHTER ON YOU TUBE...

2011-02-22T07:05:00.004-06:00

It was just brought to my attention, that an interview my daughter, Renee, did at the Cleveland Clinic was on YouTube. She was filmed last winter during one of her post transplant visits. Renee had a pancreas transplant on July 10, 2008...here is her story..

The are so many other stories to be shared on their website:

my.clevelandclinic.org/transplant

What a wonderful gift and blessing "The Gift of Life" program has to offer.

TEDDY BEARS AND A RUG

2011-02-13T07:39:00.009-06:00

Good Sunday morning! I have had such a nice weekend. Yesterday, I went to Kris Miller's "Thrums and Chums" monthly hook-in. I hadn't been since last summer and it was so nice to see all the area hookers again. It's such an inspiration to see what others are doing. Kris had invited a wonderful lady, who happens to have a graduate degree in story telling. She told us two sweet tales of her growing up..one especially pulled at my heart strings, since it was about her grandma and how she was such an important part of her life growing up. Such a charming lady! Next month I am going to bring my camera and take pictures of rugs-in-progress.

Since nothing really new or exciting around here, I thought I would post some pictures of my teddy bears. This first group of three, are my only surviving antique bears. I had quite a few years ago, but ended up selling them. These three I have hung onto. They sit quietly in my sewing room.

These next two little fella's, are the only two bears I've ever made. They are a lot of work..I can honestly see why bear artists demand such a high price for their creations! Plus, the cost of mohair is so expensive. They are not made the best...I don't think they could withstand the activities of my grand kids!
*****

The next photo is a Pat Murphy Bear..I purchased it from her in Ann Arbor in 1999. He is just a small bear on wheels..but he is so beautiful. She had only made two of them..because, she too, at that time, stated they were too much work. Her other bears are phenomenal!

Last but not least..is my rug "Hearts & Flowers". The hooking is finished, I just have to get my rear in gear to do the edging. It turned out pretty good, but I ran out of the chestnut colored brown wool..so I had to use other wool similar in color, but I guess that just adds to the "character" of the rug...at least that's what I told myself while silently complaining to myself! Have a great Sunday!!

MAGGIE B. RUG

2011-02-05T08:23:00.003-06:00

Well...I keep saying I'm a slow hooker..but this one was ridiculous. I started this Maggie B. rug last winter, finished it in May..but of course never finished the binding until right before Christmas. Then...stupid me...put the rug on the floor..I figured if the old, antique rugs can hold up to everyday wear and tear..then this rug made out of good wool will be able to hold up too..right??? Wrong! I put the rug in my entryway...not thinking that people would be trudging in & out, with wet, snowy shoes and the worse...that stupid calcium/salt stuff my husband puts on the porch. I'm sure you're getting the picture...white, crumbly, water & salt deposits all over my beautiful chestnut wool!! The death of a wonderful rug.....

Well...I took a hot wet wash cloth and literally but gently scrubbed the heck out of it, then took my lint roller and rolled it every which way possible, and then re-pressed it with a hot iron on a fluffy towel. After working on it for about an hour and letting it dry overnight, I made the very intelligent not to put it back on the floor. So I hung it on my bedroom wall...much to my husband's chagrin...he's not really thrilled with the primitive look...whatever...and here it is. It doesn't look too bad for all the tortuous treatment it had been through..no more rugs on the floor!

A REAL WHITE WEDNESDAY.

2011-02-02T12:08:00.007-06:00

With so many blogs going to a "white" theme, and today being "White Wednesday"...I thought I would show you our "White Wednesday". IT was truly a blizzard last night with snow falling about 2 inches an hour, and winds up to 40 miles per hour. Plus we had quite a bit of thunder...weird! We ended up with 10 - 12 inches and snow drifts measuring 24 inches. It may be the norm for some people...but it was probably the most we have had in years. I am a bit sick of it...but at least I was off today. My husband snowblowing our neighbor's driveway early this morning. I am cleaning out a couple of closets and then I am going to sit down and hook. Still hooking on the hearts and flowers rug..but I am almost done! Take care and keep warm!

TOO MUCH DANCING...

2011-01-23T08:07:00.002-06:00

Oh my goodness....went to a wedding last night..and of course, I wasn't going to dance..told my husband...I won't dance...don't ask me...and of course...I danced and danced. Now today I am so sore even the hair follicles on my head hurt! It was so much fun..didn't get home until 1:30 am...which is sooo late for us..we're getting old, you know!

I am now hooking the background on my "Hearts and Flowers" rug. I'll take a picture of it later. I am hoping to have it done by the end of the week.

PROGRESS ON RUG

2011-01-17T17:44:00.002-06:00

Well..here is the progress on my "Hearts and Flowers" rug. Sorry again for the poor quality of my picture taking....still working on learning the workings of my new camera. I am using a #9 cut with only 3 colors so far. I really like the simplicity and peacefulness of the design I think I will be hanging it in my bedroom when completed. My room is kind of bland..just beige, brown and white..so a little splash of blue will serve it well.

PRETTY LITTLE RED BIRD...

2011-01-15T13:15:00.004-06:00

A pretty little cardinal perched on our birdfeeder outside the kitchen window..not moving a bit..even with me standing on the other side trying to focus. He was too busy eating. We get so many pretty little birds on the feeder, but my favorite are the little chickadees. Below is another picture, but I have to apologize for my poor photo quality. This is a new camera and I am still learning how to use it.

I have been hooking away on my "Hearts and Flowers" rug and can't believe how much I have done! Now for most of you hookers, you would have probably had the rug half way finished by now...but for me...it's quite an accomplishment..I am a slow hooker!!

GETTING MY GROOVE BACK...

2011-01-14T06:22:00.006-06:00

OK...I admit it...I have been in a funk...just can't seem to get interested in anything since the holidays. I guess it must be post-holiday blues??? I don't know...maybe it's the fact that I go to work in the dark, come home in the dark, eat, sleep, and lay??? Whatever it is...I am deeming myself OUT OF IT...TODAY!! I have the day off......I am hoping the sun will be out and maybe I will be inspired to do something.

Last night, while digging through my stuff to either hook or stitch...something to get me going...I came upon a rug pattern sent to me by my friend, Lori Rippey, Homespun Prims by Lori, last winter. I love this pattern and I love the colors she had chosen for her rug. So I hope you don't mind, Lori...but I am going to use similar colors..(hey I have to have something to get me going). I traced it out on unbleached primitive linen from Dorr Wool and picked out some of the wool. So today...I am restarting my engine, getting my groove back...

Below is Lori's beautiful rug that she hooked last year. It was inspired from an antique rug that is also pictured in "SEASONS AT SEVEN GATES FARM".

The antique "Hearts and Flowers" rug pictured on page 218. Even though the book was first published over 15 years ago..it is still such an inspiration!

LAST LOOK....

2011-01-02T17:32:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, I spend the entire day "undecorating"..I don't know which is more work...putting up or taking down. One thing I know for sure...it sure is sad having to haul out the tree. We get so excited finding the perfect tree at the tree farm, I squeal like a little kid the whole time my husband puts it in the tree stand..trying to get it straight from all angles. Then, before you know it...it time to take it down. Every year I try to reorganize all my Christmas stuff..labeling the bins, putting them in the order that I think will take them out next year (HA HA!) and it seems no matter what I get rid of..I always seem to have more at the end of the season.

My poor laptop crashed a few weeks ago and I lost all of my pictures...plus, I can't seem to get rid of this template from Blogger. Everytime I try to load up a new background..the whole blog gets messed up. If anyone has any suggestions, I would appreciate it! I would really like a different background....

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-12-30T18:40:00.003-06:00

It's hard to believe, but another year has come and gone. We are having a small gathering at our house tomorrow evening. Just a few couples to help ring in the New Year. I don't know how I am going to get everything done..cleaning, preparing food, laundry..and trying my best to fit in a facial at a local spa! Yep..gotta end the year with some pampering!!

I'm really getting anxious to get all the Christmas decorations down and trying to get back into our normal routine. I haven't picked up a needle, rug hook, or any other form of needlework since Thanksgiving...and I had so many plans! Oh well...thankfully, with all the football games this weekend, I am hoping to be able to do some serious hooking!

Here's hoping everyone has a bright and blessed New Year!

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE HOUSE

2010-12-08T13:12:00.017-06:00

Well..I think I am done decorating...at least for today! Here are some pictures from around my house. Keep in mind, I am not a very good photographer and of course, the lighting isn't always the best but I hope you enjoy!

A close up of my mantle. My friend Patty, Dogpatch Primitives, came over today and we had the best time making these little sheep. I still have to paint the eyes on them, but I couldn't wait to show them.
My living room...

A cherished Santa I purchased a long time ago. Made by Christine Crocker of Deerfield Farmhouse.
....
My little collection of cutting boards.

My old white rocking horse and my most favorite Santa made by Patty.
Hope you enjoyed a little tour of my home. It's not very big...or very old....but it has been a wonderful home to me and my family for the past 22 years. Have a nice evening!!

FINALLY FINISHED!!

2010-12-06T18:59:00.003-06:00

I finally feel like I accomplished something!! YIPPEE!! My first rug of the season! It seems like it took me sooo long to finish..I am not a fast hooker anyway, but I just don't seem to have the time in the evening to do anything anymore, plus..I get started on something else. I think I have a problem...it's called "Overwhelmed-ness"! I love this little snowman pattern by Maria Barton of Star Rug company..he was so easy to hook. I love Maria's designs..they are just so darn sweet! I know a lot of hookers have hooked this rug this season....he is adorable...Mr. Hempenstall. I am giving this as a gift to a dear friend. Now..it's onward to my Antique Santa and Reindeer by Maria. Hopefully, I'll get it done before Christmas..

BABY...IT'S COLD OUTSIDE!

2010-12-01T22:11:00.004-06:00

My gosh..it's so cold here in Michigan. We had a few snow flurries this morning and it was so pretty...but it didn't stick around for long. I have been hooking, stitching and decorating this past week. I finished my Mr. Hempenstal rug by Maria Barton from the Star Rug company...well...almost. I have to finish the edging. I really love the design and it was so easy to hook. Next, I am hooking her Antique Reproduction Santa and Reindeer. I bought it last year at Sauder, but haven't got around to hooking it yet.

I have done some decorating around the house, and hope to post some pictures by the weekend. I am not a good picture taker, but I will do my best. I bought some new pieces for my living room (a small side table and a blanket chest..got rid of my glass tables...what was I thinking???)....I still have to the the kitchen, but I don't think I am going to put a lot of Christmas in there..it's too much work taking it all down. I guess I'm getting lazy in my old age! I bought the stockings this morning at a nearby antique mall. I thought they were so cute..."Dad and Mom".

MY BOYS AND THE TURKEY TROT

2010-11-25T19:26:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving day! I know I am over stuffed and pooped! It's fun to have everyone over, but it sure is a lot of work getting everything done so we can all sit down together and eat! Every year I say "Next year, I'm going to a restaurant"...I know I won't after all, it wouldn't be Thanksgiving if I couldn't be with my family.

Anyway.. three of my four sons ran in the Ann Arbor Turkey Trot this morning. It is a 5K run and they did really well. Pictured is Nathan, Shane, and Jeff. Shane is a marathon runner, Nate is a 1/2 marathoner, and this was Jeff's first race. I would love to be able to run in just one race..but I'm too old and way too out of shape. I would probably be one of the people laying on the side of the road gasping for air after the 1st 20 feet! Oh well...in my next life! Have a great night everyone!

Brady's Birthday

2010-11-21T19:07:00.009-06:00

Today we celebrated Brady's 3rd birthday. That's him in front of the cake, along with his mom, his older sister Karsyn, and then his little little brother Parker with my daughter, Renee. It was at a place called "Jungle Java" and personally...I hope to NEVER go there again it was packed wall to wall with people. I soon as we walked in my son said, "Mom..we are having the cake now and we are getting the heck out of here..it's terrible!" I think it was the fastest birthday party in history...thank God! I don't think my brain could have taken two hours of it!! Here's some more pics...just have to show the grandchildren every once in a while!
This is Sebastian and Gabriel..sitting waiting anxiously for cake and ice cream..thankfully they didn't have to wait too long!

This is little Miss Olivia...as you can see by her face..she is really enjoying herself!

Last, but not least...is my youngest son, Jeff, holding the youngest of the 9 grandbabies..Charlotte. She is so sweet..always smiling and always looking to grab whatever she can with those lightening fast hands! I was unable to get a picture of my little grandson Jacob...he was too busy playing and his little sister, Isabel was home recovering from a fever. It's never dull when these cousins get together!

SOME MUCH NEEDED REDECORATING..

2010-11-15T07:37:00.012-06:00

I have had the pleasure of having a 4 day weekend this past weekend, with virtually no plans...so I have been sewing, hooking, and lastly rearranging and cleaning. I'm never in the mood to do it after work so I thought I would take advantage of my small and far between bursts of energy!

First, is my entryway. It is a difficult area to decorate due to the long wall, but I have to make the most of it:

This poor little high back dry sink I have had for about 15 years. I tried and tried to sell....even give it away, but there were no takers. I figured out it was a bit to shiney...so I left it on my back porch a couple years, let it peel and crack. Then brought it in yesterday...sanded it and added a thin coat of Tudor Brown Briwax. I took off the porcelain knobs and some other trim. I can't decide it I want to slap a coat of paint on it or leave it be.

This is one little corner in living room...another difficult area to decorate because my furniture is in the center of the room, so no matter what...there is always a chair or couch back to it. This pie safe, I purchased at Malabar this fall rather inexpensively. It was golden pine color with really shiny copper tin panels. I brought it home and sanded it, and then applied my favorite Briwax all over, including the punched copper. I think it looks pretty good.

I found a permanent home for my Annie doll and I found a way to darken her white eyeballs...again...did I mention Tudor Brown Briwax?
This was the "before"...again....one word...Briwax...

MAKING DOLLS...

2010-11-14T12:54:00.004-06:00

I was so fortunate, after not being able to attend the Simple Goods Show, that I was able to purchase one of Jackie Schmidt's dolls from her picture trail this past week. I just love Jackie's dolls! They are so simplistic in appearance, yet their little faces say a thousand words. I love this little angel tree topper. I think she will look wonderful on my twig tree this Christmas. The larger one on the left, is Annie. I had purchased a pattern from Jackie about two months ago and finally had enough time yesterday morning to actually make her. Now Annie's face doesn't look near as good as the pattern...it looks like she has no mouth (she does....it's just dark), and her eyes look as though she has seen a ghost (I had to redo them three times)..but her dress turned out splendid..I added some little antique shoe buttons at the top. I stuffed her with cotton batting. I have Annie holding a little cross stitch sampler that I stitched about 25 years ago it says:

"LET'S ALWAYS TAKE THE TIME TO SAY A PRAYER FOR EACH OTHER"

So...this was my second attempt at making a doll from a pattern and it was quite enjoyable! I am hoping I can improve on the the facial features of my next one,so she doesn't look so scary,but for now, Annie will sit with pride next to my small but growing collection of black rag dolls!

SHOPPING IN SEVILLE AND MEDINA OHIO

2010-11-10T21:00:00.013-06:00

Last Friday, my husband and I were heading down to the Simple Goods Show so we decided to make our way through Medina and Seville Ohio first. Here are a couple of pictures of things I picked up along the way:

First..I would like to share a couple of photos of the beautiful sampler I purchased at Seville Antiques in Seville Ohio. I love this primitive, antique shop! They have the best antiques. Every dealer has a little room set up, displaying their wares in the most beautiful, primitive way...it makes you feel like you are in an early New England Saltbox home...

It's dated 1939 with the initials W.T.B. at the top. I love the poem about friendship.

We also stopped at Three Brothers Antique Annex just south of downtown Medina. They have such a large selection of primitives!! I spotted this set of pantry boxes and of course just had to have them! They were my splurge for the trip...

Well...we never did make it to the Simple Goods show...that Friday afternoon we had to return home due to a family emergency. But all seems to be a little better now...so we are shooting for next year. I know we missed a great show and really missed seeing a lot of good friends....but when it comes to family...you have to follow your heart. Take care and have a good week.....

BUSY, BUSY WEEKEND

2010-10-31T18:47:00.007-05:00

Well...I had hoped to post some pictures of my grandchildren all dressed up for Halloween..I had a party for all of them yesterday...there are nine of them now...but my camera died on me, my husband took pictures with his 35mm and had them put on a CD....but of course, when I tried to load them on my computer, it froze..so I virtually have NO pictures of the kids at this point and they all looked to cute! I do have two pictures before the party.

The table is set with candy and all kinds of goodies for the kids.

I have some pictures of some of the little treasures I have been finding here and there. I'll tell you..it's getting harder and harder to find anything worth buying around here in Michigan. I think all the primitive antiques have left the state.. They must have heard that the chances for adoption were much better in Ohio or Indiana!

I found these two cutting boards a few days ago at a local antique shop..not really old or very prim, but the price was right and they blend in pretty well with my other cutting boards.

I was so excited to find this stocking made by Stein's Country Collection. I have a few pieces from Stein's, but I had not seen this stocking before. Also, this white, chalkware Belsnickle is made and signed by Nyla Murphy dated 1992. I'm not familiar with her work, but he is gorgeous. Both of these pieces were at another antique mall not far from my home.

On the needlework frontier....I have finished stitching a cute little Christmas sampler by Shelley Auen..so sweet, I can't wait to frame it. I am in the process of hooking Mr. Hempenstall, by Maria Barton of Star Rug Company. I just have to do the back ground and finish the edging. I'll post pictures this weekend. I am leaving Friday to go down to Ohio for the Simple Goods show. I am so excited! I haven't' been in a couple of years and hope to meet up with a few friends, plus pick up a few more "treasures"...have a great week!

MOVING ON......

2010-10-17T06:29:00.008-05:00

Thank you for all of your kind and supportive comments regarding the passing of my grandma. She will be missed for sure and we will always treasure precious memories...but as her preacher, so nicely but firmly, stated at her funeral service....we can not dwell or live in the past...keep the memories alive....but move on....Once again...thank you for all of your comments..it is truly and deeply appreciated.

Although I aready have two stitching projects in the works..I know...bad...very bad...I purchased two new one..not to mention the new 2010 Christmas Ornament Just Cross Stitch Magazine (there's only about a dozen that I would love to have completed by this Christmas...LOL!) The first one in done in only one color..DMC 3865 stitched on a beautiful navy blue Lugana (my new favorite fabric!) I am going to start this one this week. It's designer is Poppy Kreations.."Silent Night, Holy Night".

The second design is by Brightneedle "Libby Q". I saw the sampler at my local cross stitch shop and fell in love with the colors...they are so subtle. I think it would make a nice gift! I'm going to use a 28 ct Lugana You know me..I can't get much smaller count than 28...I envy all you gals that can stitch with 32 and 36 count..it's called..."Linen envy"! Have a great week and happy stitching!

(Sorry..something happened with my blog background..tried to get it back..but something is wrong with the server??)

A LOVE STORY....

2010-10-11T20:48:00.007-05:00

This is not an ordinary love story....this is a story of an endless, never tiring love between a daughter and her mother. My grandmother, who turned 99 on September 20th, has lived with my mom for the past 8 years. During these eight years, we have watched Grandma go from a very independent woman..still driving until the age of 93..to a woman who had to learn to depend on my mother for even the simplest of things. Although my grandmother's mind was as "sharp as a tack", her poor little body was growing weary. My mom, who at the age of 78, has been her best friend, her caregiver, her constant companion. Grandma always worried about Mom...Mom always worried about Grandma. For the past three years, I witnessed the most loving and giving care a daughter could possibly give to her elderly and frail mother.

This morning, my mom had to make the most difficult decision of her life. My grandma, had been on life support for the past few days. In our hearts, we knew she would never come home, but my mom always had hope...today, mom was ready to let her go. Grandma went so peacefully, with mom, myself & my husband, my two brothers, and her great grandchildren surrounding her bed...all saying prayers and quietly telling her how much they love her and will miss her. My mom was the bravest of all....she never left her bedside, holding her hand, telling her everything would be alright.

My youngest son said it was the end of an era..but I thought later that it was a continuation of an era...she left a lifetime of love and wonderful memories. I hope I will be able to show the same love and patience to my family as my mom did over the past few years to her mom and my grandma to her....it was truly a story of love....

My grandma...We love you and will miss you so much.

A BITTERSWEET MORNING

2010-09-25T07:26:00.006-05:00

Good morning..I am so glad that it is Saturday. This was one of the longest weeks in history..at least to me! Lots of activity going around our homestead, not to mention I "earned" my first speeding ticket on Monday afternoon. I was so nervous I couldn't even get my license out of my wallet!

Anyway..I had been wanting to rearrange my mantle and wall for the fall. I had a mirror hanging for about 2 years and had grown tired of it. I bought a large and medium grapevine wreath (Hobby Lobby has them 1/2 off this week), wired the smaller one inside the larger and then added some beautiful bittersweet vines from my sweet friend Terri, of "Eat Crow Primitives". She gave me a few bunches of it last week at Malabar, but it wasn't quite ready yet. I left it on my backporch till it turned it's wonderful color and stuck it inside the wreath. I also added a little sewing bird box, made by Tina from "Early America the 1815 Shoppe, just for interest. The little covered clock in the middle of the mantle (show in the larger picture) was a gift from my second son Shane and his wife Jennifer on the day they were married. I love that little clock! Plus, they had it engraved. It will always be a treasure.

I am off to sit with my 99 year old grandma this morning, so my mom can get some shopping done and just get out of the house. Granny became ill right before her birthday on Monday and had to be hospitalized, but was released a few days later. She really is to the point where she cannot be left alone anymore..so between my brothers and myself, we are going to help out as much as possible. I hope you all have a wonderful day...it is finally a nice, cool autumn morning here in Michigan! Take care....

MY MALABAR TREASURES

2010-09-20T18:36:00.007-05:00

My new kitchen scrub top table.

I purchased this table from nice young couple in the barn at Malabar. I think their name was "Simple Goods Primitives". Anyway..I am crazy for scrub top tables and have been looking for one for my kitchen and came across this one. Even my husband liked it. I had a little bistro table before..this one is much more practical. The top of the table is over 100 years old, but the table legs are newly made. It has a nice clean edge to it.

This is my beautiful Stacy Nash sewing pocket. I was so thrilled to meet Stacy and even more thrilled to buy one of her finished samplers. This was a birthday gift from my husband to me (of course I picked it out!)It was my big splurge! Well, besides the table..I really did have a good day!

SO MUCH FUN IN MALABAR!!

2010-09-19T16:15:00.010-05:00

Whew..I am still on Malabar high! What a great time we had..it was an awesome show! Carolyn and Julie Thorton did an amazing job in making sure the vendors were happy with their setups. Any questions or concerns, they were right on top of it! I know they have to be exhausted today! Thank you Carolyn and Julie for all of your hard work! Of course, I had so much fun buying as well as selling! My Malabar neighbor, Terri, Eat Crow Primitives, and I hit is off really well as we did last year..I think even our husband's had a blast! She is simple the best neighbor to have! Terri was really helpful in helping me price some of my items, because for me, it's just a guessing game and I always need help in that department! I was able to shop quite a bit yesterday and found some really good buys. I met and talked with Stacy Nash and bought one of her finished pieces with which I am just thrilled. It was a birthday gift to myself! My friend Melissa, drove down from Cleveland to the show and we were able to shop together for quite a little while and visit. She bought a couple of really nice items and of course wool from Alice Frazier's booth.

It was so nice to see friends from BLESTB and AAPG...Karin, Kaye, Julie, Sherry, and Lauren! It's always nice to see all of them..seems we only get to meet at antique shows or rug hooking shows! Anyway...here are some pictures from the show of the booths that were around me. I'll post more pictures tomorrow of some of the items I bought...did I ever mention that I am a table finatic?? Terri's booth...stocked with all kinds of wonderful scented wax ornaments, stitcheries, painted goods, and beautiful live plants and topiaries. I love all of her early cupboards!Beautiful original cross stitch designs by Lee of Falling Star Primitives.

I didn't get the name of this vendor, but I really loved her booth! Just look at the entrance to her space! How original! She had really nice offerings and was just about sold out at the end of the show.

BUSY AS A BEE...

2010-09-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

Getting ready for the "In The Spirit of Friends Show" at Malabar Farms this Saturday!
It was so much fun last year, getting to see old friends and making new friends. I really enjoy being able to participate in this show. I love seeing all of the artists and antique dealers with their wares...and of course, not to mention shopping. This year there are even more vendors than last year so it should be even more fun!

I have been making some items for the show, but of course, my main focus is on selling primitive, early goods. I hope to see you down there..it is a wonderful, wonderful show! Just look for Union Star Primitives. I'll be there with my cracked, walnut stained hands..and of course my wonderful hubby!!

MY STASH AND I

2010-08-29T19:02:00.005-05:00

My primitive browns and faded, antique blacks.

My blues...my favorite!

I've been busy!!! Getting ready for the "IN THE SPIRIT OF FRIENDS SHOW" in September....just 3 short weeks away..YIKES!! I have been stitching, painting, creating for the past 2 months. I had ordered some beautiful reproduction fabrics online..but then checked in my own little cabinet and forgot the reproduction fabrics I already had in my stash...well.....maybe I didn't forget...maybe I just wanted to buy more..whatever the excuse..or addiction..I spent the afternoon washing and softening the entire pile. Then I had to sit back and just look at it and sigh..silly, huh? I know I am not alone...and I know I will probably NEVER use all the fabric I have, but for now..I am having fun with it!

SAUDER...A RUG HOOKER'S DREAM!

2010-08-21T22:20:00.028-05:00

My friend, Melissa and I went to the wonderful, words-cannot-express, rug hooking exhibit at Sauder Village this past week. I have been every year for the past six years and this was, by far, the biggest and the best! I took lots of pictures and would have taken more...but my battery died the very first day. I posted what I did take so sit back, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy. I apologize for not getting the hooker's names or the designers, but I am sure most of you will know who they are. The first few pictures are the amazing and unbelievable work of Mary Shepard Burton and Leonard Feenam. The Noah's Ark was just beautiful..what a true labor of love! Click on the photos for a larger view. Enjoy!

I was mesmerized by this simple green cape. It was in the exhibit by Mary Shepard Burton as well. My picture just does not do it justice. The green beading around the botton of the cape was outstanding.

This is one of the most outstanding hooked rugs I have ever seen. It was hooked by Donna Hrkman. It was hooked to resemble the old "brown and off white" tin type photos. Her colors and shading were amazing. It was so detailed..it looked like a photo!
A complete wall was dedicated showing different ways to finish rugs. This was had braiding and all typed of needlework intertwined with hooking. Beautiful colors!

This is one of my favorite rug designs from an antique rug adapted by Barb Carroll. I simply love the "simplicity" of the design and colors in the rug.

I love how these hookers made these rug/figures!! They are precious..especially the ones sitting.

Another rug hooked by the phenomenal Donna Hrkman. This rug almost brought tears to my eyes. The look of sadness and grief on the old soldier's face, made me wonder whose folded American Flag he is clutching so tightly to his soul. If rugs could talk...what a story they would tell...My favorite Santa rug. And antique rug adapted by Maria Barton. I have this rug, but haven't started it yet..bought it last year at Sauder...determined to get it done by this Christmas!

I have a few more pics to post, but I'm tired and going to bed! I will be back this week to show off the wool Melissa and I purchased plus a few other goodies too! Thanks for visiting my blog!

MY OLD BLISSFIELD CUPBOARD

2010-08-01T19:37:00.007-05:00

You know how you buy something and swear you will never get rid of it? Well...this old hanging cupboard is one of those things. I bought it in Blissfield MI about 10 years ago. I have had it in the living room, the dining area and in the kitchen. I took it down about 2 years ago when I was going thru my "HGTV" phase..(trying to make my house look like every house shown on national TV). But after seeing on the basement floor of my laundry room I couldn't take it anymore. It was either sell it or put it back up..so I hung it back up in my kitchen. The items will probably change from month to month, but for now..I'm quite happy with it the way it is! The sampler on the door was made by Sherry Kristoff, From Sherry's Heart and I love it! One of my favorite samplers! Below, is before I loaded it up..pretty rustic. And then the last picture is with the doors closed. It looks kind of "olive green" in that picture, but it is a really nice old brown.

STITCHIN' AND STITCHIN'

2010-07-28T20:45:00.003-05:00

I don't know what has gotten into me, but I just can't seem to get enough time to stitch. Ever since I went to Lori's home and seen all of her beautiful samplers..I just want to make them all! The above small sampler on my header is a Stacy Nash design. I stitched it on 14 count, hand-dyed linen using my favorite DMC blues. I painted the frame in "Calypso Blue" by Americana Paints and then grunged it up a bit using Brewax in Tudor Brown. The big mistake I made, however, and I vow NEVER to do it again...was to use a peel and stick board to adhere my fabric too. WHAT WAS I THINKING??? I have never done that before..I always use the lacing technique for all of my projects..I guess I was in a hurry.

I am now cross stitching a long sampler "Zilpha C. Moss" designed by Linda Gillon. I purchased the pattern at "The Country Sampler" in Spring Green WI a few weeks ago on our vacation. They had the finished product hanging on their wall and I fell in love with it. I am stitching it on 28 ct. Platinum Lugana. I didn't think I would be able to stitch on this fabric..because my eyes can't focus that well...but actually it is more like an even weave...so skipping every other hole isn't so bad! Of course...I don't know how long this one will take me. I know after I go to Sauder in a few weeks, I'll be back to rug hooking. Maybe if I don't go into work, don't sleep at night, and spend every moment stitching...I can get it done by the fall! I am such a slow stitcher.

OH HOW I LOVE...MEDINA

2010-07-25T18:16:00.012-05:00

Yesterday morning, after working all week, my husband decided that we were not going to stay in the house on a Saturday..especially when they had been calling for severe weather on and off all day. We figured we couldn't work in the yard, which we are both sick of anyway..so he asked if I would like to go to Medina Ohio for the day...WHAT????? Are you kidding???? We hadn't been on one of our little day trips in a long time (not counting our trip to the UP of course!). So off we went..it is about a 2 1/2 hour drive from my house.

Our first stop, was Liberty Station Antiques located off of Rt. 18, near the Root Candle shop...which is huge..not the antique shop, but the candle shop. I bought a couple of little goodies there, including the garden bench pictured below ($6!)then I bought a really cute little wall box for only $5. After that, we went to 3 Brother's Antique Mall..there are two shops next to each other and they have gorgeous primitives.

Then...the best of the best...Seville Antiques...located also on Rt. 3 about 15 miles out of Medina. This shop has the best primitives I think I have ever seen! Another one out of my price range..but I always manage to find a little something. This time I found an early breadboard and purchased Judy Condon's latest book. The lady that own the shop is so sweet. If you go to: http://www.picturetrail.com/theprimitivestitcher, the beautiful picturetrail of Linda Babb's, you can see this antique shop..she took tons of pictures when she was there on vacation. A feast for the eyes!

Lastly...we went to the Medina Antique Mall, right off of I-71. This mall is super huge and has a mix of all periods and styles of antiques. I bought a couple of pieces of linen for stitching, but my biggest find, were my glass jars. The man who has the booth sells mostly antique, primitive jars, glasses, and advertising memorabilia. He gave me a nice price on both of them. Then my husband bought the little rocking chair, for the grandkids. We now have three of them in the living room, but this one is by far, my favorite.

The darker bread board, standing up against the backsplash, is the one I purchased in Seville. The two wider jars on the end, I have had for many years, and now the two taller ones compliment them.

The little rocker in my living room, looking quite comfy with "Lydia" and my Sampler pincushion...both hand made by Lori Rippey of Homespun Prims by Lori.

WOODEN BOWLS

2010-07-22T20:36:00.007-05:00

Tina's display of her primitive, antique wooden bowls on her dining room table.

My collection of antique wooden bowls...wish I had the antique table Tina had in her dining room!

After visiting Tina's beautiful saltbox in Wisconsin..I couldn't wait to get home. She has such a lovely way of displaying her primitives...ways I never would have even thought of! I had all kinds of decorating ideas running through my head!! One of the displays Tina had, was her old wooden bowls. She had them placed in an old, primitive wooden box, just very simply sitting on her dining room table..BEAUTIFUL!

So...when I got home, the first thing I did was run to the basement, dust off my wooden bowls....clean the cobwebs off of my primitive, antique dough box (that has been sitting in the cellar for over a year)and put them all on my table! I love it..of course the husband just kind of rolls his eyes but he always goes along with the flow!

OLDE FABRIC COVERED BOOKS

2010-07-17T20:00:00.010-05:00

I just had to post something about my two, early fabric covered books. They are in the most wonderful blue, early fabrics. I have had them for several years. They were the only two I have come across in my antiqueing ventures over the years....both purchased at different places and at different times.

The larger book on the right, was purchased at an antique show in Ann Arbor several years ago. It was a bit pricey, but when I opened the front cover..I was blown away! Inside was a crudely written name "Bobbie Shane". Now..first of all..I didn't think Bobbie (my name) was that common of a name but the last name "Shane", just happens to be my second oldest son! I knew it was meant for me! I know that the signature is not as old as the book...but I still thought it was a strange coincidence...

The small book I found at a little mall by my house about 10 years ago. There is a really cute poem on the front page:

And when looking thru this book, I found a couple of old newspaper articles that someone thought was important enough to save..something about taking care of your body and your babies. Then I found the paper cutout of this beautiful Victorian Lady.

Thank you to all for reading my blog..I really appreciate hearing from you!

MORE TREASURES TO BE SHARED...

2010-07-16T21:37:00.011-05:00

I love this little chair!! I found it in Florence WI last week. Although the pictures really do not show it...it is a beautiful dark blue..such a sweet chair!

These are two bread boards I found at the Goodwill shop in Iron Mountain..in addition I found some really nice small wooden picture frames. The tin wall sconces I found at an antique mall here in Michigan two weeks ago. I had seen them over two months ago and didn't buy them..when I went back..they were still there. I don't have any idea where I am going to put them..but I'm sure I'll find a place!

Lastly...this is a Stacy Nash design I am working on. It is from her new design "Peacock Sewing Roll". I am stitching it on hand-dyed 14 count linen. I am using my favorite blues from DMC, 924 & 926. I am making it into a small sampler to hang next to my blue cupboard.

TINA'S CUPBOARD

2010-07-13T19:34:00.002-05:00

Tina is one of the most talented, creative, and energetic woman I think I have ever met! This cupboard was handmade by her...I just love it!!! She told us that she made this cupboard, hooked a rug and painted a room, all within a few days!! Whew! Of course her husband was out of town at the time...but my goodness!! I couldn't build a cupboard if my husband was out of town for a year..much less do anything else! I showed the pictures to my husband and asked if he could help me build one (yeah, right), and he just rolled his eyes. Then I told him it would be great for his(notice I said "his") DVD's. So he's like, "hmm..maybe". We'll see...I would sure love to have one..if not for his DVD's..then for my wool??

TRIP TO LORI'S & WISONSIN!!

2010-07-12T12:05:00.016-05:00

What a wonderful week! My husband & I took a little vacation and went everywhere from Shipshawana IN, St. Joseph's MI, Spring Green, WI and then up to the Upper Pennisula of Michigan. We had a family reunion on Saturday in Iron Mountain, but I was also able to visit and go traveling with my friend, Lori Rippey. We stayed at a wonderful hotel in Iron River not far from Lori's and was able to visit with her and her husband on Thursday afternoon. I just love Lori's house!!! It is so inspiring...her quilts, her rugs, her dolls, not to mention the way she has everything to tastefully arranged. It is a feast for the eyes! Most of you have been on her picturetrail..but the pictures really do not do it justice..it is wonderful!! On Friday, Lori and I drove to Appleton WI to the home of Tina from Early America 1815 and met up with some other ladies for a day of shopping and fun.

Tina's home is so beautiful. Warm and inviting. We traveled in two cars, there were 6 of us in the first car and then 2 other ladies followed. I don't think we ever stopped chatting..sometimes there were at least 3 different conversations going at once!! I have posted lots of pictures below..so I hope everyone enjoys!!

This is a beautiful pinkeep that Lori gave me..I just love the way it looks in my wooden bowls.

This a my collection of birds and pinkeeps. The blue cloth bird in the foreground, was handstitched by Tina. I just love it and the blue is perfect. She gave us each a little gift for coming to her home on Friday. Believe me..just seeing her home in person was gift enough!! The brown fabric sewing box, with the little bird on top was also made by Tina. I purchased it from her picturetrail a couple of months ago..then, the pinkeep on top on the hog scraper was made by Lori..it was a gift from her last fall on a visit to her home. I think I should just move up there!! So beautiful!

This was one of my finds in Florence WI, at a little corner antique shop. It is a very early, cobbler's bench. I love the color and pantina of the wood and it fits quite nicely on my fireplace.

This is a goose feather tree that I found rummaging in the basement of the same little shop. I couldn't believe it! The base is split and somebody painted it an awful metallic gold, but the red is showing through in spots. I don't know how old it is, but from the looks of it, it has been around quite a while. The feathers are really faded in some areas. I have lots more pictures..but not enough time to post everything this evening. That little shop was quite a treasure trove!

HAPPY 4TH!

2010-07-03T17:34:00.004-05:00

I feel like an idiot! I posted a whole darn paragraph under the picture...but it didn't show up..I'm so sorry! I must have hit the wrong button. Anyway...the beautiful flag was made from my AAPG friend, Joanne, who is always so thoughtful and sending RAK's throughout the year to all the members. Thank you Joanne...I love it and it does look lovely with my daisies! I am so excited..usually on the 4th, we usually have cookout over here, but this year, my son, Nathan, and his wife invited us over for a cookout...YIPPEE!! The only thing I have to make is an artichoke-cheese dip.

I hope everyone has safe and enjoyable 4th! The weather in Michigan promises to be a HOT one with lots of sun. Take care!!

WEEDING, PLANTING, AND ACHING BONES

2010-05-16T20:28:00.003-05:00

Geez....two days ago it sounded so great to get out in the yard and start planting and rearranging some perrenials. While treating myself to a trip to the nursery on Friday afternoon...I couldn't seem to fill my shopping cart up fast enough with perrenials, annuals, herbs, and even...gulp...a couple of vegetable plants. In my overactive imagination I had visions of beautiful gardens....herb gardens, vegetable gardens, butterfly gardens..and on and on. When I unloaded some of my earthly treasures on the backporch..I took a good look around my yard and holy smokes.....I couldn't believe how much work I had to do before I could even think of planting...was I CRAZY?? I wanted to load everything back in the car and ask for a refund! But...as things settled, and my heart stopped racing...my husband reminded me that this is what we wait for all winter long. Well..maybe he does..because afteer 6 hours of bending, lifting, stooping, and yanking..my whole body is aching! we were only able to get about 1/3 of the yard done this afternoon..so I guess there is always tomorrow...Better get a really big bottle of Motrin!

I had to take a picture of this sweet little pansy that must have reseeded itself last fall. It is the prettiest little flower and growing in between the bricks right off of my back porch step. I think I'll leave it there for a while..it seems to have found a happy home!

2010-05-14T20:12:00.002-05:00

This week, I started my little grand daughter, Olivia's, birth sampler. Now don't laugh...Olivia is going to be three years old, so to say I am a little behind is an understatement! But Olivia has a little sister, Isabel, who was born last July...haven't started that sampler and then we had a another baby girl, Charlotte, who was born last month...haven't started that one either...so I figured I had better get on the ball. There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in a day..I try to get in about an hour of stitching or rug hooking every evening..but I am so tired after work, I usually fall asleep in my stitching chair around 8 pm. Boy am I getting old!

I am using motif's from the new booklet by Blackbird Designs, "Honeysuckle Manor". I love the colors in the sampler and I thought it would be a nice one for the girls. As you can see...I have the dreaded "hoop" marks on my fabric, but I have to use a hoop..can't help it! I am also using 14 count aida....which is so much easier on my eyes..and I find I can stitch a heck of a lot faster. I only wish I had purchased all of the hand-dyed floss that was listed. I used mostly DMC floss with the color conversion...but I did purchase 3 Gentle Arts skeins and the colors are so soft and the variations in the thread is just beautiful. Well...I'd better get back to the sampler...I've got lots of stitchin' to do!

A TOWNSEND...IT'S A BEAUTIFUL THING!

2010-05-10T18:06:00.005-05:00

I know, I know it's been like forever since I last posted...almost three weeks to be exact! I have had a rough couple of weeks...busy at work, busy at home, yard work, inside work, then to top it off, I experienced a horrible case of "viral gastroenteritis" last week..in other words...I ate something that was contaminated by someone not washing their hands properly or at all or the food, itself, was contaminated. Either way...it cost me a trip to the emergency room last Tuesday morning and then three days of misery! Yuck...I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy! All this while my new Townsend sat in my hooking room....UNTOUCHED! I finally was able to use it this past weekend and what a joy it was! I think my hooking even looks better...my strips are even, no fraying, and it cuts like butter!! I purchased it from Ault's Rug Hooking Store while they were up here at the hook-in in Saline. Larry gave me a trade in allowance for my Fraser so the decision was easy..especially since all my hooking friends think this machine is the best invention since sliced bread!

A FUN FILLED WEEKEND AHEAD!

2010-04-21T11:38:00.009-05:00

I have been so anxiously waiting for this weekend in April!! First of all...I am going to a dinner on Friday evening, celebrating 25 years of service with the hospital..now this isn't a dinner just for me...it is a celebration for over 200 people that have been employed with this hospital system for 25 years and over. Can you imagine...25 years or more?? It has really flown by, and for the most part..I have really enjoyed my time at this hospital. I have made really good friends, have had patients that have made a lasting and meaningful impression upon my life, and I hope, I have touched some of their lives as well. This has been my one and only place of employment since graduating from nursing school back in the 80's. Anyway...it promises to be a wonderful evening..good food and good company!

Now...the second part of this wonderful weekend...is the Ann Arbor/Saline Hook-In on Saturday at the Washtenaw Country Fairground. This is an annual event and I can't wait!!! There are so many vendors Kris Miller, Larry and Gloria Ault and several others..can't wait!! You know..you can never have enough wool..or hooking patterns! I am actually thinking of biting the bullet and purchasing a Townsend...I have been saving my pennies! But just can't seem to make a decision...

then...the third and final chapter to my weekend...is going to the first antique show in Allegan Michigan of the season. This is an event that even my husband enjoys! Two of my friends from work are going with us....it will be their first time. It is acres and acres of antiques---primitives, vintage, etc, etc...all kinds of goodies! The prices are very reasonable and the dealers are friendly and always willing to make a deal! I am only hoping the weather will cooperate...it's supposed to be a little chilly..

Posted below is a little rug that I finished up this weekend for our "Little Quilt Retreat". It is a design from Kindred Spirits that I purchased in 2003 when I first started hooking.

LITTLE QUILT WEEKEND RETREAT

2010-04-18T14:09:00.004-05:00

This weekend was our "Little Quilt Weekend Retreat" for the ebay group, AAPG (An American Primitive Gathering). I am not a quilter...tried it...didn't like it..but my good friend Lori, from Homespun Prims by Lori, makes the most amazing quilts among other handmades, including the wonderful pincushion also seen in the picture. So....I took my little quilts, made by her, and framed them. I think they are deserving to be treated as works of art...which they are! Pictures do not do them justice, but at least by framing them, they are front and center and they really dress up my living room wall. They were easy to frame, but I want to change the background from the stark white, acid free paper, to a soft tan. Lori's blog and picturetrail are listed on the sidebar to see even more of her amazing hand-mades & her beautiful home.

The game board was purchased from a wonderful folk artist from Maine who happened to be one of the vendors at the Malabar Farm show last September. And of course..as you can see...I don't have one particular style of decor that I cater too...I have a mix of everything. Notice the ironstone pitcher with the flowers?? That pitcher has traveled to more places and tabletops in my home than a container of Orange Glo!

Anyway...I hope everyone is have a nice Sunday...it's still a bit chilly here in Michigan..but at least we don't have snow!

NEW BABY IN THE FAMILY

2010-04-07T19:09:00.003-05:00

This morniing we were so blessed with the arrival of another grandchild, Charlotte Ann! Our son Shane and his wife Jennifer have two beautiful little boys, but were so hoping for a girl...and this morning...she arrived!

I finished my Maggie B. rug...finally! I don't think I will ever hook a rug that big again..it turned out really nice and I can't wait to hang it...but first I have to paint my kitchen...when will I ever get the time to do that?? When I have a day or two off from work...I sure don't feel like painting!! Anyway...I am now hooking a small rug..one I purchased from Kindred Spirits designs about 7 years ago..it's a cute little rug..6 1/2 x 24. I needed something small. Next rug will be my Mr. Hempenstall, from Maria Barton of Star Rug company..it is adorable! I already have my wool picked out and will be bringing it to the Saline hook in on April 24th.

OFF TO PENNSYLVANIA....

2010-03-25T05:15:00.004-05:00

Today is our 38th Wedding Anniversary and we are heading off to Ligonier PA! We don't know exactly what's down there....but I have heard from reliable sources that it is a really nice place to visit! I made our reservations last evening and we are hoping there will be a lot of sight seeing, shopping, and eating involved. We had planned on leaving this morning, but my husband had a prior commitment he totally forgot about...so....we'll be leaving in the early morning hours..he thinks about 4:30 am....I don't think so...maybe 6....we'll see!

I am hoping to go a couple hours west and visit Grant Street Woolworks in Chambersburg..might be might only chance for wool!!! My friend Kathy, a.k.a...Woolfind....works there and the pictures she has posted on her blog of the shop looks absolutely wonderful!! I am hoping to go to the Coverlet Museum that Mary, another AAPG friend, recommended. I know there is lots and lots to see..can you tell I'm excited??

LOVIN' SATURDAYS!!

2010-03-20T06:31:00.003-05:00

Whew...what a week!!! I hate, hate, hate to wish my life away....but it seems like more and more, I'm wishing for Friday evenings to be here, so I can have MY Saturday!! Now it's not like I have such big plans for this day..but it is the day I can regroup...do errands...clean, rearrange...enjoy the day with my husband. The weather was beautiful and "beyond" springlike here in Michigan. Yesterday, I babysat for three of my grandchildren and we went on such a long walk. My daughter pushed the stroller with Parker, the 11 month old...Brady..who's 2, pushed his little lawn mower, and then Karsyn who's 4 1/2, was just totally amazed with the pinecone's that had fallen off the trees. I think we walked for over a mile just enjoying the beauty of the day.

Today, I have laundry to do and some cleaning. My ebay group, AAPG, has it's monthly retreat. This month it's creating or working on a project with flowers, baskets...etc...anything "spring". So I already have something in mind. I hope everyone has a wonderful Saturday and do the things you truly love to do!

HERB ANGEL & A BARE NAKED LADY....

2010-03-14T18:07:00.009-05:00

I love this rug!!! It is hooked by Kris Miller of Spruce Ridge Studios. The design is from Lori Brechlin, Notforgotten Farm, & adapted for hooking by Kris. I love the colors Kris has used...it is so soft. Kris has such a way with making colors just blend so beautifully! It is a nice mix of pale buttery yellows, browns, greens, and lavenders. It is definitely on my "to-do" list! For even more "eye candy" go to Kris' to see the rugs she has posted. She is on a mission to post a rug per day for the entire month of March! If that doesn't get your hooking fingers itching...nothing will!!

http://spruceridgestudios.blogspot.com

One of the gals from Thrums and Chums, Elaine, makes these gorgeous rug hooks. Elaine is a traditional rug hooker, using narrow cuts...and I mean narrow! Her finished rugs looks like oil paintings...they are just beautiful! Anyway...this rug hook is made from an antique manicure tool, sterling silver, from the "Art Noveau" era. Pssst....it is a naked lady...if you look close enough! The pic is kind of blurry..sorry! Beautiful, Elaine...just beautiful! Oh...and BTW....I am almost finished with my Maggie B. rug. As soon as I can..I will post pictures of it!

SLOWLY MAKING PROGRESS

2010-03-02T06:46:00.005-06:00

Well..I thought I would be done with my Maggie B. rug, by now..but as usual...life gets in the way..If I could only win the Lotto, I could quit my day job and hook till my heart's content! I have 1/2 of the background done (more than is shown in the picture below). I started using an antique black wool in the background, but it didn't make the colors of the leaves, the flowers, and bird "pop", so I "unhooked" background, and rehooked with a deeper black brown wool and am much happier with the result. I have realized, that I enjoy working with a thicker, bulkier wool and also using a #9 width.
My Magdalena rug is still in the works, but my Maggie rug is the one that will hang in the eating area of my kitchen. I am planning to repaint my kitchen and cupboards (YUCK!)and would like to coordinate the colors used in this rug. So, it's really important I get this project done first....plus, if it is finished by the middle of April, I would like to put it in the exhibit for the Saline Hook In in April here in Michigan...but we'll see....the rate I'm going, it might be next April before I'm done!

The darker shade of wool worms, are the ones that I settled with for my background..the paler, more greyish/black worms are the ones I was not quite as fond of as the hooking progressed. This is the largest rug I have ever attemped to hook, so I'm sure, finishing this piece will be loads of fun!!

THE MAGDALENA RUG..WELL, PARTIALLY

2010-02-21T18:05:00.007-06:00

AHH..the art of changing a rug pattern to suit your own tastes! If you can make it out, the black outlines were the original designs by Barb Carroll...but, she let the gates open wide when she told us to change the design of the rug to make it "our own"! I had so many red lines (that's the changes), that I couldn't decifer what line to hook on...I wasn't too big on what I considered upside down animals, in true Magdalena form, so I had them all going the same direction..well, almost! And how about them colors???

MARIA'S RUG
This is Maria's rug...as you can see...Maria made some changes to her rug also. I love her BIG animals! She was using a 9 cut and I couldn't believe how much hooking she had accomplished! She always has such nice colors and her hooking is beautiful!

MAGDALENA YOUR WAY...A WORKSHOP WITH BARB CARROLL AT AULT'S

2010-02-19T16:34:00.002-06:00

This is the entrance to Ault's...I love the Rug Hooking sign..it sets the tone as soon as you walk into the shop..of course all of the gorgeous wool you see in the baskets below...sets a tone too...you want to have it all!!! But then, the cross stitched phrase below.."Never Enough Thyme" kind of brings you back down to earth..Gloria and Larry Ault are such wonderful & graceful hosts! Their shop is just beautiful...so warm, so comfortable. There was so much attention given to every detail! They checked on us (and there were 16 hookers in all), to see if we needed anything. The fridge was stocked with water & soda, the coffee pot served endless cups of coffee. Gloria served bagels, scones, pastries in the morning as we arrived on both mornings. Then for lunch we had wonderful sandwiches from a local sandwich shop.

There were hookers from Minnesota, Missouri, Michigan, and Ohio. The weather wasn't the best....but nothing can stop a dedicated hooker!! Please enjoy the pictures...I know this post is long, but....I just didn't want to leave anything out! I will post pics of my rug later this week...Enjoy!

2010-02-19T16:16:00.004-06:00

The workshop focused on the hooking style of Magdalena Briner and how to hook in the Magdalena tradition, but hooking her designs your way. Barb focused on the simplistic folk art of this early and most well known rug hooker. However...choosing the design was the easy part...choosing the colors...well, that was the tricky part. This sample was hooked by Barb's assistant Lisa in Pennsylvania. This is Barb's sample. Barb hooks in the more primitive, looser fashion. She called it "developing your own rhythm"...well, I don't think I have a rhythm..I just keep pulling up the wool..some loops are shorter and some at taller...

This is Jenny...Magdalena was her great, great aunt. Jenny brought a beautiful book with pictures of rugs hooked by Magdalena and rugs hooked by her, using the designs of Magdalena. It was very special having her at this workshop..thanks Jenny!

2010-02-19T15:59:00.002-06:00

Barb Carroll helping with color selection for the "Magadalena Your Way" workshop. Poor Barb..we had her running from table to table and room to room!
One lovely cupboard after another, just stocked with beautiful, buttery soft wool. It was so hard to make a decision!
Barb brought a huge selection of wools for us to choose from. Every color you cold imagine, in every amount, every size. But she took us each individually to the wool tables, and there were many, to choose the most interesting and "cool" colors, as Barb would say!Loved this apothocary cabinet in the shop....

This is the group of gals I shared a hooking room with at Aults. There were two rooms with ample space to be comfortable and hook till your heart's content. Such a pleasurable atmosphere! These gals, some were from Michigan and some from Ohio, were a riot!! Besides, lots of hooking...we did lots of laughing!

2010-02-19T15:48:00.001-06:00

Ok...this didn't have anything to do with hooking...but I fell madly in love with this asparagus fern Gloria has in her shop.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

2010-02-14T12:05:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's day...it's cold here in Michigan, but at least we haven't gotten anymore snow. I don't have anything new to report this week. Wasn't able to get much hooking done. It has been crazy at work and by the time I get home...I'm exhausted, to say the least! I did go to the monthly hook-in, Thrums and Chums yesterday in Brighton, which is Kris Miller's group and needless to say..it was very entertaining! There are some really, really funny and witty hookers in the group. Kept me laughing till I had tears in my eyes...and I did manage to get a bit of hooking done.

I am going to Ault's this week for the workshop with Barb Carroll. I am so excited! I have never been to a "retreat or a workshop" in all of my hooking history...so it will be wonderful..plus...I am going to make the trip by myself....I have never gone anywhere without my hubby or kids, so it should be interesting! Of course, I'll have to leave a light on in the hotel...I scare really easily!! Have a great week everyone and I will take pictures of the workshop and post next weekend..

"EMMA"...Such a delight!

2010-02-04T11:31:00.003-06:00

For the past two Sunday evenings, there has actually been something deliciously delightful on TV. On the Public Broadcast Station, Masterpiece Theatre, has been presenting the works of Jane Austen. This Sunday is the final chapter of "Emma". It has been nothing but wonderful!! I have DVR'd the episodes and this Sunday...of course being SuperBowl Sunday..I will have to wait and watch the final episode on Monday...oh joy, oh joy!! I have seen "Emma" twice with different actresses, one being Gweneth Paltrow....which was pretty good..but the two hour movie cannot compare with the works of PBS. Love, love, love Jane Austen..but of course..who doesn't?

FOUND A NEW NEEDLEWORK SHOP

2010-01-31T13:55:00.005-06:00

Yesterday morning, I ventured to Fenton Michigan to a needlework shop, "Stitch'N Things". It is about an hour drive from my house, but boy oh boy...do they have the stuff!! Everything from fancy scissors, silk threads, charts, and a wide choice of linens.

I have had such an ordeal stitching on linen, that it really takes the joy out of stitching....my eyes just arent that good to see every other little hole! And I refuse to wear one of those magnifying thingies around my neck..cross stitching shouldn't be that difficult! So....I was able to find hand dyed 18 ct and 14 ct linen...it is beautiful! I can't wait to start stitching on it. I told the owner that I had never used silk thread to stitch and she handed me a hank of silk thread and told me to start stitching with it...she claimed after 4 stitches I would be hooked!! It was awfully nice of her, since this hank of silk was priced $7! Just what I need....another way to spend even more money on beautiful thread!

And now for an update on my Maggie B. rug...I am still hooking almost nightly on it. I ripped out some of the old green wool and rehooked with the new wool I had purchased last week. It is a big rug....but I sure didn't make my deadline to have it finished by the end of this month...oh well....I'm shooting for March at the rate I'm going!! I'll post pictures this week, after I've made a little more progress..have a great week everyone!

PROGRESS AND NEW WOOL

2010-01-24T11:22:00.017-06:00

Just a small amount of progress on my rug this week. I had such a busy week at work..never got home before 8:3pm on one single night. UGH!! I hate weeks like that...I am hoping this week will be better. I am a bit under the weather today..must have caught a bug yesterday...can't seem to get out of bed without feeling nauseated. I did start on the "blue" flower last evening.
I finally received my beautiful green hand-dyed wool that I purchased from ebayer: double-m_sheep_and_wool. She has really nice wool offerings and she usually has two or three pieces, in the same dye bath, but different textures. I can't wait to use it. I think it is a better choice for my leaves in the pattern. I hadn't been to the second hand store in a couple of months, but yesterday, I went on a whim looking for wool. I found two really, lovely Pendleton skirts and of course, both 100% wool. I love the soft green plaid and think it will look great in a nice spring patterned rug. Now...the lavender plaid...I'm not so sure. I could probably overdye it..but I think I'll felt it for now and see how it turns out. I bought each piece for 90 cents. Quite a beautiful find!

ONE THING YOU SHOULD NEVER DO........

2010-01-22T23:13:00.011-06:00

....and that's go to the beauty salon when you are tired, anxious, overworked, and buzzed on caffeine. I went last night to my wonderfully talented hairstylist and told her just to cut my hair...SHORT! I handed her a small picture of a hairstyle that I had been thinking about for a couple of months. She kept asking me..."Are you sure you want to go this short? The sides are really short. It will be cut to the top of your ears....are you sure, Bobbie???????" Yep...cut it....besides....it will grow back, right?? Cute haircut..but to be quite honest...my face is too fat to have short hair... I look like Chris Farley..only with dark hair! I knew it looked bad when I came home, and my husband took one look at me and then quickly ran...not walked...but RAN into the other room. He still hasn't said a word about my hair! I think he is afraid that if he looks at me too long, he'll break into uncontrollable hysteria! This is a picture of the style...and telling you that this gal, in the picture below...is not me...that's an understatement! Oh how I wish!

I'm hoping tomorrow I'll be able to style it a bit better than I did...after all, I went out and spent a fortune on body boosts, gels, something called the "Manipulator"...so wish me luck!

HOOKING & STITCHING AWAY

2010-01-14T16:19:00.027-06:00

Well, I have been hooking away on my Maggie B rug and it is going along very very smoothly...except...I didn't have the right color or "value" of green for three of the leaves, so that kind of threw me for a loop...no pun intended! You know...when you are hooking along and then you take a step back and notice that the colors aren't exactly right?? That's what happened the other evening. So, I was able to order some "grass green" wool from a seller in the PRGHW group on Ebay. I am hoping to get it this weekend. I always seem to have trouble when it comes to green..I don't know why. It's just a very difficult color for me to choose.

I started a new cross stitch pattern from LHN...."Colonial Needle Works". It's an older pattern, but one I have loved. I am stitching it on 32 ct linen, in a beautiful pale blue. I am using Gentle Art floss and my old wooden embroidery hoop. I have never stitched on anything smalled than 28ct...so this will be a challenge...my eyes just aren't what they used to be!

I was so happy to find the Spring edition of one of the best magazines "Sampler and Antique Needlework". I love this magazine and look forward to every issue. It is full of early samplers, charts, and history.

1ST GOAL OF THE YEAR....

2010-01-10T14:36:00.003-06:00

I am starting a new rug...a pattern by one of my favorite designers, Maggie Bonanomi. It's a rather large rug, measuring 20" by 40". I have never hooked one quite this big, but I thought it would be perfect for my kitchen wall. I only have one wall in my kitchen, the other ones have cupboards, and it's always a decorating dilema for me. In the picture above, are the wools chosen to use. Thankfully, I already had the colors in my ever growing wool stash. I am setting a goal to have this one done by the end of month...hmm...we'll see, but I am starting it this afternoon and am going to hook like a maniac!!

JEFF'S ARTICLE

2010-01-10T14:31:00.002-06:00

My youngest son, Jeff, participated in a symposium last spring pertaining to "Revolutionary Detroit". He is a full time history student at Wayne State University and in addition to his other classes, this was quite an undertaking. The project took the entire semester which involved graduate and undergrad students. Jeff's article was one of the articles selected to be published in this book "Revolutionary Detroit". We are so excited for him not to mention proud, but in addition...the local newspaper caught wind of his accomplishment and did a really nice story on him and the book. Way to go Jeff! We are all so proud..can you tell??

NEEDLEWORK PROJECTS FOR 2010

2010-01-03T14:03:00.003-06:00

These are a few of the needlework projects I am planning on making this year. One, of course, is a beautiful design, from Beehive Needleworks. I had planned on having this one done by this Christmas, but of course, time ran out! The other pattern is by Notforgotten Farms, Lori Brechlin. I have looked at this pattern online several times, but the cross stitch shop near my home actually had a copy so I finally bought it. I don't know why I procrastinate when shopping for cross stitch pattern....I know I am going to buy them sooner or later any way! I also purchased this "Book of Days" journal from R&R. It was on the sale table for $3, and although it is from 1999 (yikes!) I bought it anyway...it has some nice little motif patterns. Then last but not least, is one of my FAVORITE magazines....Sampler and Antique Needlework. So many good articles...well, those are on my "to-do" list...but first I have to make 5 more baby samplers!!

Rug in Progress...

2010-01-03T13:56:00.003-06:00

My daughter-in-law, Sara, purchased two beautiful hooked rug patterns from the Star Rug Company, Maria Barton, for my birthday. This rug "Tulip Fraktur" is a simple, but very beautiful rug pattern. I am using only three colors. My favorite blues, beige (or dirty snow), and army green. I have the perfect spot to hang it when I am finished. I am using a #8.5 cut which makes hooking projects go much faster!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T20:20:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful New Year's Eve night. We decided to stay in this evening and watch movies. I am happily hooking a new rug. It's not very often I get an evening of just quiet so I am doing what I love to do. Tomorrow, we'll have a house full of men glued to the TV set in the living room watching every bowl game possible.

I've got my sewing room all cleaned and organized. So...while they are watching the games, I can sit and hook & stitch all day and evening, with the door closed...of course! There is something to be said for football!

BACK TO REALITY...BACK TO WORK

2009-12-29T05:36:00.004-06:00

After a wonderful Christmas week, it's time to go back to reality and head on in to work this morning. Not that it's a bad thing..it's just that it is nice to play Donna Reed for a week. To be able to actually enjoy cleaning, cooking, without any time restraints has been quite a treat. Oh well....I think I do much better under pressure. Seems I do get more done when I work...my "to-do" lists are never ending and the little check marks by each task when completed, gives me a certain sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. I hope everyone had a nice Christmas.

The above hooked rug was a gift from my dear AAPG friend, Kelley Belfast. She not only hooked the rug, she is also the designer. "Merrie Wynter" says it all....here's hoping everyone has a Merrie Wynter!

COOKIE DAY AT GRANDMA'S...THE COOKS ARE ASSEMBLED

2009-12-23T05:17:00.002-06:00

This year, I really wanted to have a special day with the grandkids. I have been off of work this week, so I decided to have the three oldest come over on Monday mid-day to bake some sugar cookies. Karsyn, Jacob,and Sebastian were all up for the task! I bought them each their own little apron and Santa hat. While the cookies were baking and cooling...we had a picnic lunch on the living room floor while watching Mickey Mouse's Christmas on DVD. I made them grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken nuggets with chocolate milk. It was so much fun...next year..I'll have six of them together for the baking...it should be interesting!

2009-12-23T05:13:00.002-06:00

They are ready to start baking..I gave them each their own cookie tray..so they could decorate their own cookies...no sharing with licking little fingers and spoons...I was on strict orders from their parents!

2009-12-23T05:12:00.002-06:00

Sebastian, who is also 3, is having a blast! Anytime these three little ones get together, there's always some type of excitement...

2009-12-23T05:11:00.003-06:00

My second oldest grandchild, Jacob, who is three...is really getting into the decorating.

2009-12-23T05:10:00.002-06:00

Karsyn looks like she has had "enough"! I don't know if she was tired of decorating cookies...or just tired of having to put up with the "teasing" of her two younger cousins!

2009-12-12T15:55:00.002-06:00

Another busy week..but I did find time to sit and crochet a few of my favorite dish cloths to be given as gifts to two of my dear friends. I found these cute snowman hat baskets at Michael's this week and filled them with some lovely, linen Christmas kitchen drying cloths, some chocolates, a "to-do" magnet paper pad, and of course the red and white dish cloths. I think they make a nice hostess gift....even if they don't use them..they are kind of cute to look at just sitting on a kitchen counter. Have a great evening!

THE SIMPLE JOY OF CHRISTMAS

2009-12-06T21:56:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, my husband and I went to cut down our Christmas tree at a tree farm we discovered last year. It's about 40 miles south of our home, almost to the Michigan/Ohio border. The road traveled is a narrow two lane, country road that is lined with farmhouses, barns, & acres and acres of corn fields. I love the drive to this tree farm. I often think of how different it must be living out in this quiet atmosphere as compared with living in suburbia. My husband always says "No way would I live out here"..but I would move in a heartbeat!

Anyway...my husband has got to the sweetest,most patient man in the world! Going with me to pick out a tree is like taking a 6 year old girl to the American Girl Shop in Chicago! I have to admit...I am ridiculous...you would think I am picking out a tree for the White House! And the tree I usually pick out is one that is a little scrawny, a little too tall. and of course the trunk is ALWAYS crooked! This year, I opted for a shorter tree, but I love it!! It is a Canaan Fir and is sparse just in the right places. Decorating is done for this year. I'm planning on taking it easy and enjoying the prelude to Christmas. Sooooo..take care, my friends....and have a blessed week...enjoy this glorious Christmas Season!

AN OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

2009-11-13T22:31:00.004-06:00

Don't you just dream of having an olde fashioned Christmas, in these hectic days of time restraints, modern technology, and commercialism? I often think of Christmas long ago, where the simplest of gifts were so appreciated. An orange, a piece of candy, a simple homemade ragdoll. My mom used to tell me that when she was little, growing up in Alabama, Christmas was a very low-keyed celebration. No Christmas tree, no sparkling wrapped gifts. She and her cousins was so happy to receive an orange and some candy. Of course..could you imagine yourself as a child gettng so little or giving our children only one or two items?

It amazes me how much Christmas still warms my heart. No matter how old I get...it is still a magical season to me. The coziness of our home, being able to see family and friends. And now being able to see the excitement in my grandchildrens' eyes. Some people dread the Holiday Season and can't wait for it to be over...for me....I love every minute of it, dread the day after Christmas and then wait with anticipation for the months ahead knowing that Christmas will be back again!

OPEN HOUSE ON THE TDIPT

2009-10-30T12:25:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe, but the Christmas Season will soon be upon us! I love November and December. It's always so much fun getting ready for the big day and this year will be no exception. The TDIPT Mercantile is having their annual "It's Beginning To Look Alot Like Christmas" Open House starting this Sunday, November 1st. You can be sure that there will be lots of goodies offered from some of the most talented folk artists on the web!

A VISIT TO LORI'S

2009-10-12T16:47:00.002-05:00

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of going to the Upper Pennisula, here in Michigan. My husband has several cousins that live in the western UP, Iron Mountain, Escanaba, and one even in Wisconsin. My main event, however, was going to visit my dear friend, Lori Rippey, who just happens to live a stone's throw away from one of the cousins. I was so fortunate to be able to visit with her in her beautiful, primitively decorated home on Friday afternoon. What a pleasure! I told her that the Country Sampler Magazine, needed to come to her home and do an article on her!

She made me a beautiful little wall quilt...her home is filled with her handmade quilts, her hooked rugs, and of course her dolls, that she designs herself. She also made me a gorgeous pincushion, as seen in the picture above. I then picked up a couple of her handmade dolls. Lori has such a way with aging her fabric. But...darn...she wouldn't tell me her secret...LOL! I don't blame her one bit! Check out her picturetrail...the link is on my sidebar. Lori is always making, creating new items to sell. You will not be disappointed! Plus you can see some really nice pictures of her home.

New Friends

2009-10-12T16:01:00.002-05:00

I just love these little cloth dolls! Lori always puts her finishing touches in them to make them look so old...the little boy doll, I believe is my favorite! His sweet little face and clothes are so simple! Lori designed this doll after an early cloth doll that she has had for quite some time. The little girl doll, is so old and worn looking...she is very firmly stuffed with rags. I love how they look sitting on my early corner cupboard.

2009-10-12T15:59:00.002-05:00

These are my fabulous "little quilts" made by my friend Lori Rippey. She does such a fantastic job and everything is by hand! I love her work!

HOOKING IN THE FALL

2009-09-27T15:10:00.006-05:00

It's funny how my needlework hobbies seem to change like the seasons here in Michigan. In the spring and early summer, I love to do cross stitch. In the late summer, fall and winter months I love to rug hook and sew. I truly believe, that with the cooler temperatures, the "nester" seems to come out. This is a pattern I am working on. It is a little design I drew up and actually did a wool applique but then thought it would be a nice autumn rug.

I will be joining The TDIPT Mercantile October 15th and will list something new the 15th of every month. Please check out what this wonderfully, talented group of women have to offer on the 1st and the 15th.

SEWING RETREAT WEEKEND

2009-09-27T15:10:00.005-05:00

For this month's AAPG weekend sewing retreat, the theme was "birds". Any type of bird....hooked, needle punched, cross stitched, or sewn. I had been under the weather with a nasty cold since Friday evening, so the best I could come up with was some little fabric birds, with wool wings, sized just right for my little metal umbrella tree. These retreats are so much fun! They really inspire you to "do something" even if you are in a slump!

FUN AT MALABAR FARM

2009-09-20T10:01:00.003-05:00

This was my booth set up at the Spirit of Friends Show this weekend. What a wonderful show it was! It was a ton of work, but so worth it! I had so much fun meeting people, meeting up with friends, and making new friends. We worked like dogs..setting up, re setting up, redoing, undoing...anyone who has done a show, knows how much work is involved, but it was a blast!!! I made a great new friend, Terri, from Simply Eat Crow...she was my neighbor for the weekend and I couldn't have asked for any one nicer! We hit it off so well and she is also a TDIPT member! How fun was that?? I will post pictures of her booth later this afternoon and a link to her selling blog.

2009-09-20T09:59:00.002-05:00

These are some of my handmades offered. The early Ohio sun was so bright and beautiful, that there is a glare. But...we couldn't have asked for better weather..it was PERFECT!!

2009-09-20T09:54:00.001-05:00

Friends at Malabar...Lisa, Kaye, Julie, Lori, Sherry, Karin, & me

2009-09-20T09:46:00.003-05:00

What a blast...a group of us gals from BLESTB, PRHG, and AAPG, all wonderfully, talented groups on ebay got together at my booth, Union Star, on the "hill" at the In The Spirit of Friends Show at Malabar Farms yesterday. What a treat!! Everyone was so excited and full of energy! I think I was more excited to see my friends than I was to sell at the show! I only wished we all lived closer...I think I might need to move to Ohio...seriously!

A NEW BED

2009-09-13T10:32:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I went to an awesome antique sale in Plymouth MI. My friend, Pat, always has the best primitives. It's about the only place you can pick up prims at a decent price. Well, I purchased this bed from her for only $25 dollars. I think it is probably from the 30' or 40's, but it is that heavy metal, painted brown, and then has the sweetest bouquet of flowers painted on the headboard and footboard. The comforter shows up to be quite bright, but it really isn't. It is a nice contrast to the dark brown of the bed. This is my "guest room", something I never thought I would be able to have, especially with raising 5 children...just never seemed possible.

2009-09-13T10:30:00.002-05:00

Just a simple view of the footboard with the pretty painted flowers.

COOKING, CLEANING, CHOPPING, SHOPPING

2009-08-29T21:50:00.004-05:00

Yep...that about sums it up for the past 24 hours. My dear husband turns 60 tomorrow and I am having a party for him! Now mind you....he only wanted his kids and grandkids..at first...then he added a couple of friends...then he added a couple of more friends...then he added his sisters and brother, plus the spouses....then he added more friends...then Holy Toledo...I think I am up to about 50 to 60 people! I just started planning this "Main Event" on Thursday afternoon, not to mention that I had to work on Friday! Luckily, I was able to order him a cake, rent some tables and chairs and order some chicken...

Today I cleaned like there was no tomorrow, then I shopped like a mad woman. When I got home this evening I started cooking, chopping veggies, fruit, making some kind of dessert called "Puppy chow" and now I am totally wiped out. So wiped out that I forgot to buy him a birthday gift!!!!!!! I think I will tell him that the party is his gift (I don't know if he'll buy that one!) but I really did forget until about an hour ago..o well, I am making his favorites.

Here's the menu:

Smoked Sausage with sauerkraut
Meatballs with Swedish style gravy
Chicken (from Kroger...the best!)
Cheesy Potatoes
Red Skin Potatoes (from my daughter, Renee)
Corn on the cob (I forgot to shuck tonight..darn!)
Chow Mein Salad
Veggie Pizza
Taco Salad
Buttered Green Beans with almonds
Veggie Tray
Relish Tray
Dinner rolls
Pistachio Pudding (from my daughter in law Sara)
Puppy Chow
Cake...

Sounds like a lot...well, maybe--- maybe not, depends on who shows up! So if any of you are hungry stop on buy..what's a few more?

HERE'S THE GANG...AGAIN + 2

2009-08-26T02:11:00.003-05:00

A few months ago I posted a picture of all my grandchildren, attempting to sit on the couch to get their pictures taken...very, hard to do! Well, at Olivia's birthday party, we attempted the same feat but this time, we had two more babies to add to the mix...Parker and Isabel. I think all you can see of those two babies is their little bare feet! The "older" kids, ranging from 1 to 4 years old seem to be having a very difficult time in sitting and posing, we have to snap a picture when we can! Well...there are eight of them in this picture...but come spring their will be another one to add to the mix! Good grief...it was like Romper Room at my son's house...but so much fun..they are all our little blessings!

MY GRANDMA AND THE YOUNGEST

2009-08-26T02:10:00.005-05:00

This my grandma, Divie Angeline as she holds her youngest great-great granddaughter, Isabel Angeline. My grandmother is going to be 98 years old in September and she is doing great..moves a little slower, but her mind is as sharp as a tack!

2009-08-26T02:10:00.004-05:00

Olivia's birthday was a couple of days ago..this is her at her birthday party with her Birthday Girl Shirt on! She has beautiful red, curly hair and her eyes are crystal blue...and she knows how to pose for the camera!

OLIVIA'S BIG DAY

2009-08-22T14:46:00.002-05:00

This afternoon we celebrated my little grand daughter's birthday. She is two years old and just as sweet as can be!! Not much of a little princess...she is more of a little tomboy. Olivia would rather play in dirt and collect rocks than play with dolls or other girlie toys! This is a card that I made for her with couple of sweet pictures.

SAUDER VILLAGE RUG HOOKING EXHIBIT

2009-08-15T21:00:00.002-05:00

This past week, was Sauder Village's Rug Hooking Exhibit in Archbold Ohio. I can't tell you how wonderful it was! I went by myself and had the best time! The exhibits just get better every year. This year I actually remembered to bring my camera. I took quite a few pictures, but I only posted a few this evening. I went with the intention of not buying any more wool...HAH! That never happens..it's like saying a quilter will never buy any more fabric! Rebecca Erb was there and I bought a few pieces from her....she has the most amazing, buttery soft wool and her colors are gorgeous...no need to overdye..they are already perfect for hooking! Then I bought 4 fat quarters from a new vendor this year, "Among Friends". I beleive they are from Indiana and they had beautiful overdyed wool. You know how you have a color in your mind that you want to hook with and can never seem to find it or dye it right...well, I had been looking for a dark, teal-like blue to hook this adaptation of an antique rug..and found it at Among Friends. I bought three pieces...she called it "Blue Plate Special". I don't know if it was her combination, but it is THEEEEE most beautiful blue...cant' wait to hook with it!

LOVE THIS RUG!

2009-08-15T20:56:00.002-05:00

I don't remember who hooked this rug (sorry), but it was one of my favorites! I just love the gal's face in the rug with her "thrift store finds"...I think we can all relate! It won a ribbon I believe for "Outstanding". It was outstanding!

2009-08-15T20:49:00.001-05:00

Hooked rugs by...guess who? Maria Barton of the Star Rug Company. I missed Maria at the show by one day, but I really enjoyed looking at her rugs. They are always such fun!

2009-08-15T20:46:00.004-05:00

I just love this pattern by Maria Barton--Star Rug Company. I don't remember who hooked it, but they made it into a pillow with a shagged wool finish. Too sweet!!

Stay Lively

2009-08-15T20:39:00.003-05:00

This display had more of a contemporary theme. Beautiful colors!

HOT, HOT, HOT!

2009-08-09T17:26:00.002-05:00

How in the world can it be 70 degrees with cold, damp, rainy weather yesterday and then today.................be 98 degrees???? It is so blasted hot outside, that I am NOT going outside....nope, not to see the grandkids, not to the grocery store, not to a restaurant. I am sitting in the house, watching TV, hooking, and doing some laundry. I know I will regret it tomorrow when I am back at work, but for today it is what I have to do!

I am still hooking away on my rug. Just can't seem to get it done. We have had a busy weekend. Yesterday, we went up to Ubly Michigan (no not "Ugly Michigan!) which is about 70 miles north of Detroit. My husband's cousin & husband celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary....can you imagine? What a blessing! We had such a wonderful time. This lovely couple have raised 11 children and have a total of 58 grand and great grandchildren. Their immediate family consists of 78 people (I think...it may be more, I kind of lost count yesterday). Anyway...we didn't get home until 11:30 last evening.

And...as if I don't have enough to do....I am planning a 60th birthday party for my husband. It was one of those things, should I or shouldn't I?? My kids wanted me to rent a hall, have a DJ and all that. Make it a "surprise" party...well, I thought at one time that may have been a cool idea, but the more I thought about it...I decided it was just too much work. So, I have decided have a party in our yard, invite the family, his brother and sisters' families, a few friends, and a couple of his childhood buddies. I think there will probably be about 70 people and that is big enough...NO suprise either...he will be involved. My husband loves a party! Well, at least he loves having family and friends over.

Hope everyone has a nice day...stay cool!