Primitive Country Cabin

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T16:19:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:35:00.001-05:00

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas is almost here!

2011-12-17T18:26:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted but I've been super busy with life and of course getting ready for Christmas...my favorite time of the year! Here are a few simple decorations for our home.

Miss Pearl was really getting into decorating the tree this year...too cute. She's not so sure about the guy in the big red suit though. She wanted nothing to do with him at the mall...hehe

Finished tree....hard to get a clear shot of it at night.

Some of the snowmen I made a few years back.

We have no snow and not much in the forecast so we may end up having a green Christmas. I want snow for Christmas!!!!

This next photo was taken a while back when we had our first snowfall but it's all gone now :(

Hope you're all ready for Christmas....I still have more shopping and baking to do but I'm almost ready!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T08:18:00.001-05:00

Wishing all my American friends and family a wonderful Happy Thanksgiving!

God Bless

Huge Christmas Craft Sale!

2011-11-17T18:53:00.001-05:00

After years of selling crafts online, I finally made the decision to stop making crafts for sale. I will only be making items that I want to keep for myself. Being a full time Grandma and having limited space in my home as well as poor online sales, it just made sense to stop. I will be clearing out all my items that are already made and a ton of craft supplies that I won't be needing anymore.The decision was a hard one but it's the best one for me now . I will have more room in my home and won't feel stressed out to keep things posted on Ebay, Etsy, and my website.

Soooo with that said, I will be having a huge sale on Ebay. Most items at less than it cost for the materials....but they must go. I'll be adding items whenever time permits until everything is gone. I've already added quite a few today and will list more after Miss Pearl is sleeping tonight. I have a ton of hand stitched pillows to go through and so much more.

You can visit my Ebay store here if you'd like to take a peek.

Also if anyone is into making their own Christmas cards or does any kind of paper crafting or scrapbooking, I have and will continue to stock wonderful vintage Christmas card image CDs on Ebay. I spent years collecting old scrapbooks and boxes of cards and scanning all the images to create the CDs and I've had only the best comments from them.

God Bless :)

More items for Christmas Craft Show

2011-11-11T16:46:00.001-05:00

Item #8 Noel Cross Stitch Ornament

Stitched on adia cloth using Valdani Floss is Noel. I’ve added a red and white grosgrain ribbon hanger that reads Season’s Greetings. Backed with red corduroy. Approximately 5 x 3.5 inches.

$20.00 + $7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item #9 Stitchery Pillow

Hand stitched pillow on soft beige flannel and used fabric markers for his scarf and shading. The side borders are made from a cute snowman print and the back is flannel too. Approximately 11 x 10 inches.

$12.00 + $ 8.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 10 Gingerbread Rag Doll

She is made from new fabric rag strips of tan, beige, and gold homespun. I've hand painted the icing around her head and painted her eyes black. She measures 11 inches tall when laying flat and 6 inches tall when sitting. She would look wonderful propped on a pillow or tucked in a prim cupboard.

$14.00 + $7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 11 Snowman Heart Ornament

Stitched on wool felt is this cute snowman scene with feather tree and snowman appliqué. The words Let it Snow are on it and I’ve added a blue silk ribbon for a hanger. Approximately 6 x 4 inches not including the hanger.

$ 10.00 + $5.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 12 Snowman Ornament

This little guy has been made from stained muslin. I've hand stitched his face, added glass bead eyes, and hand stitched the word Brrr to his belly in red cotton string. He has a rusty snowflake attached to his belly. He has a hand dyed Berry Wine and Green ribbon for a scarf tied around his neck. I've added a red cotton string tie but if you prefer to use him as a cupboard tuck or bowl filler, you could easily cut it off.

He is approximately 5 inches tall.

These look absolutely beautiful on a prim Christmas tree! They also look great hanging on a peg, tucked in a cupboard or just sitting on a shelf!

$6.00 + $5.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 13 Frosty Snowman Ornament

This is one of my Rag Snowmen that have been so popular over the years. They're one of my best sellers!

This little guy has been made from stained muslin. I've hand stitched his face and I've hand stitched the word Frosty to his belly in blue floss. He has a hand dyed blue ribbon scarf tied around his neck. I've added a red cotton string tie but if you prefer to use him as a cupboard tuck or bowl filler, you could easily cut it off.

He is approximately 5 inches tall.

No patterns were used in it's creation making each one a true one of a kind item.

These look absolutely beautiful on a prim Christmas tree! They also look great hanging on a peg, tucked in a cupboard or just sitting on a shelf!

This would also be a nice touch tied to a present or gift bag for that special loved one.

$6.00 + $5.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Hope you're all enjoying our Online Christmas Craft Show!

An Old Fashioned Online Christmas Craft Show

2011-11-11T09:23:00.001-05:00

Welcome to ORP’s Christmas Online Craft Show. I’m so glad to be a part of it!

If you would like to purchase any of my hand made items – just send an email to connie@countrycabin.ca Items will be sold on a first come first serve basis. Thanks for visiting and supporting crafters that offer hand made items. Please take a few moments to visit each one as I’m sure there will be some amazing items for sale.
Miss Pearl, my Grandbaby who lives with me has been sick with a nasty cold this past week so I haven’t been able to get ~~much~~ hardly anything done. Ever try crafting or taking photos of items with a 2 year old and a rambunctious 6 month old puppy around? LOL - It’s been challenging to say the least! I hope to have more listed as the weekend continues and she feels better so please check back every day for new items.

Item #1 - Christmas Raggedy

Hand made Christmas Raggedy with hand painted/stitched face. The bottom of her dress has cute snowmen on it . Click to enlarge. Approximately 18 inches.

$25.00 + $8.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 2 - Snowman Cupboard Tuck

Hand painted on stained canvas - small pillow tuck with snowman and tree. Stitched snowflakes with white floss and backed with tan cotton fabric. Approximately 6 X 6 inches.

$8.00 + $7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 3 - Snowman & Crow Cupboard Tuck

Hand painted and stitched on stained muslin – a snowman with feather tree and crow . Backed with tan flannel. Approximately 7 X 8 inches.

$9.00 +$7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 4 - Saltbox Snowman Cupboard Tuck

Miss Pearl is holding a hand painted and stitched on stained muslin cupboard tuck/pillow – A Saltbox house, Snowman and Feather Tree. I’ve added a red and white ticking hanger that is attached with rusty safety pins. Approximately 7 x 4.5 inches not including the hanger.

$10.00 + $7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 5 - Rocking Horse Candle Mat

Hand stitched on stained muslin – a Christmas Rocking horse. Approximately 7.5 in diameter.

$10.00 + $3.00 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 6 - Reindeer Cross Stitch Ornament

Stitched on stained adia cloth using Valdani Floss is a Christmas Reindeer. I’ve added a red and white ticking hanger with rusty jingle bells and safety pins. Backed with red corduroy. Approximately 3 x 3 inches.

$13.00 + $3.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

Item # 7 – Christmas Cross Stitch Pillow

Christmas cross stitch on adia cloth with flannel toile side border and hand dyed wool bottom border. It’s rag stuffed for that old look and feel and is backed with the dark red fabric shown in the photo. Approximately 12 x 5 inches.

$35.00 + $7.50 shipping

order by emailing connie@countrycabin.ca Please include Item #

I'll be adding more items throughout the weekend so check back often!

Old Fashioned Online Christmas Craft Show Coming Soon!

2011-11-07T14:58:00.000-05:00

Hi, Ladies!

Please "Save the Date" for the weekendof November 11th, 12th & 13thfor ORP's

"Old Fashioned Online Christmas Craft Show"!Please join us for this very Unique & Special Event!

Meet some very talented artists!

You will have the opportunity to purchase

some unique, handmade, one-of-a-kind items!

The "Best" part of all is you don't even have to leave your home!

Shop online from home!

Below you will find a list of all of our

"Christmas Craft Show" Participants...

The Barn Hollow
Happy Valley Primitives

Cat Nap Inn Primitives

Buttermilk Creek Farm

Designs by Guka
Old Road Primitives
Sweet Bear Creek Whims
Grandma Kringle's Country Crafts
The Farmer's Attic
Santa & the Mrs.
Olde Crow Mercantile
Huckleberry Lady

Cynzplace

Primitive Country Cabin
Yorkies Primitives
Olde Annie Primitives
Mel's Designs from the Cabin
Country Cents
Colleen's Craft Shed
Paula's Primitives

Ellie's Country Accents
The Cottage Works
Beyond the Attic Door
All Cooped Up
Sew Many Raggedies
CounterCrafts Primitive Treasures
Nellie's Nest
Shell's Vintage Charm
Hickory Ridge Primitives

Looking forward to seeing you then!!!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:42:00.000-04:00

Our Little Hobo :)

Fall Decorations

2011-10-27T13:26:00.001-04:00

I guess I should share a bit of my indoor Fall decorations before I take it all down next week...LOL
As soon as Halloween is over, it's time to start the long process of decorating for Christmas. I'm glad our Thanksgiving is in October so I don't have to rush around as much. Here are just a few of my Fall displays.

Please ignore the lack of baseboards on the walls. I haven't gotten around to putting them up yet. It's been way too long too! I really need to get on that!

Miss Pearl just loves playing with this Fall village. She's always re-arranging things...hehe

I purchased this old butter box while on vacation with my parents in September. The cream can was bought on ebay a few years ago. As soon as puppy is trained, the pee pads are coming out of that box and I'll probably put some of my Primitive books and magazines in it. The vine pumpkin is a new addition this year as well.

These displays hold a few of my own handmade items as well as some that I've purchased online.

Cutest Little Pumpkin in the Patch

2011-10-17T12:05:00.000-04:00

Miss Pearl deciding on which pumpkin to bring home!

Boy, I've been gone a while....been super busy this fall and have much to share. Now I just need to sit down and sort through the gazillion photos I've taken. We had a gorgeous 2-3 weeks of beautiful sunshine and summer-like temps so we did a lot of outside stuff - Now we're into the cold rainy part of Fall and almost all the leaves are laying on the ground. This is the part of Fall I'm not fussy about - too wet and damp and nothing really pretty to look at....so I start thinking about how pretty the snow will make everything look

( don't throw things at me) LOL... I'm one of those people who loves snow - not the cold - just the beauty of snow.

Last weekend we took Miss Pearl, Shelby, and her friend Erin to "The Pumpkin Patch" which is really called Leisure Farms, but the Pumpkin Patch sounds cuter.

We saw turkeys.

The pet pig.

The girls just loved this bale maze. I thought Miss Pearl would be scared but once she was inside she loved it! It was like a big ole fort to play in.

There was a nice playground for the kids to enjoy.

And of course, mountains and mountains of pumpkins.

And what Fall Farm would be complete without a corn maze to get lost in?

Happy Fall!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-10-10T14:58:00.000-04:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sorry for not posting much lately. I promise to be back soon with a ton of new Fall photos!

Christmas Ornaments Listed

2011-09-09T09:14:00.002-04:00

I've added a bunch of my Christmas ornaments to Ebay. Here's a few of them but I have many more listed and a bunch I hope to list today. You can view them all here

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Back to School

2011-09-07T15:56:00.002-04:00

Shelby started her final year of High School yesterday and so far no complaints about her classes or teachers...in fact I think she's going to love her senior year. This year will be a busy one with filling out college applications and graduation stuff to get ready for. Her spare is right after her lunch which gives her over 2 hours of free time each day... sure wish I had that...hehe.

The house is quiet now as it's just Miss Pearl, myself and Koko. I already miss my road trip buddy (Shelby)! I guess I'll have to save the road trips for Saturdays and Sundays.

I was planning on getting some much needed housework done and start my Fall decorating but I've been hit with a nasty sore throat and cold. I don't mind letting the cleaning wait, but I'm so anxious to get my Fall stuff out.

It's funny....when I was younger and before I had children I was a clean freak - the whole house got a going over every single Friday - it would take me ALL day. Now that I'm older, having a spic and span house has become less important. I'm more interested in spending every minute I can with the kids and grand-kids as I've learned over the years that time is way more precious than a sparkling home.

Fresh local corn and more photos

2011-08-31T18:34:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we went for another road trip to our small Amish community and I was so happy to see that some of them are now selling produce from the end of their driveways and homes.

We stopped at one homestead that had a "Sweet Corn" sign at the road and drove down the long winding driveway to see a beautiful large barn and house that can't be seen from the road at all. I was greeted at the door by this young Amish woman and when I asked if she had corn available she said "Yes, but I'll have to go to the garden to pick it". I almost jumped for joy - I've never had corn that fresh before!
As she headed to the garden, I went to the car to get Miss Pearl and Shelby as they had both spotted the horses in the field and wanted to take a closer look. It just happened to be right beside the garden where the woman was snapping the corn off the stalks. I was almost drooling with every snap I heard - couldn't wait to get home to taste it....and Boy. Was. It. GOOD!

Shel and Miss Pearl getting ready to peel corn and of course Koko had to inspect! LOL

Miss Pearl choosing which cob she wanted for herself.

Here are a few more photos to enjoy of the beautiful countryside around us in Northern Ontario.

A little update

2011-08-26T19:44:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that we didn't get a Tornado - it was just a bad thunderstorm. Thankfully, we didn't lose our power. I hope everyone along the east coast gets to safety and that Hurricane Irene isn't as bad as they predict it will be.

The other day Shelby, Miss Pearl and I went on a little road trip to drive through our small Amish community not far from us and I took these photos. I was surprised at how quickly their community is growing. A few years ago there were only a few Amish families. Now they are everywhere out there and I'm so loving it! Shelby calls me an Amish Stalker....LOL. I'm just so intrigued with their lifestyle! I hope they will someday start a great Farmer's Market up here like the one in St. Jacobs Ontario. I was always under the impression they were Mennonites but there was a write up in our local paper that says they are Amish.

I plan on going back this week and taking some more photos of the farmland and barns so I'll share those photos when I do. Until then....stay safe!

New Penny Rug Items

2011-08-24T15:48:00.000-04:00

I figure I better post this now as there's a tornado watch in effect for our area and with even the smallest thunderstorm or winds we loose our power. We have been out of power anywhere from 1 hour to 3 days before....I sure hope we miss it this time!

I've just listed a couple of new items on Ebay. The first is a Primitive Pumpkin Penny Rug which you can see by clicking here

And the second is a Halloween Penny Rug Pocket that is a Penny Lane Primitives design. I made a Pumpkin Man to slide inside that was my own original design. You can see it here.

New Fall Penny Rug

2011-08-17T19:18:00.001-04:00

I've completed my first penny rug and it was so much fun! I think I'm addicted to making them now :) I made up my own pattern and used hand dyed wool. It's perfect for Fall or Thanksgiving. Just listed it on Ebay here.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2011-08-17T09:30:00.001-04:00

Still hot enough in the daytime and the wonderful cooler nights that come with Fall. No bugs bothering you at night by the bonfire, fresh produce popping up everywhere, and the anticipation of the upcoming Fall Fairs!

I took these photos yesterday of Miss Pearl and some sunflowers.

Although it doesn't look like Fall yet, I know it won't be long before the beauty of the season is upon us. Can you tell Fall is my favorite time of the year? If I had it my way, it would be Fall all the time!

Primitive Halloween Banner with Spider

2011-08-10T21:54:00.001-04:00

Just a quick post to let you all know I've just listed the first of my Halloween banners on Ebay. You can see it here

This was a first attempt at making a spider and I'm so happy with the results!

The temps have finally cooled off and it's actually cool enough for a sweater up here....I LOVE IT! Come on FALL!

New addition to the family

2011-08-10T09:43:00.000-04:00

Last weekend we got a new puppy. He was a birthday present from my parents. Our last dog Chanel had to be put down from old age a couple of years ago. She was 14, blind, toothless, and could barely walk anymore. IT WAS HARD...and I didn't think I'd want another dog again, but this little guy is growing on me. I mostly agreed to having another dog because my youngest Shelby is a real animal lover, like myself, and I knew Miss Pearl would enjoy it too. Every kid needs a dog to grow up with :)

He's a Shih tzu, yorkie, toy poodle mix and he's so cute! Hard to get him to sit still for a photo shoot though...hehe

His name is ~~Coco~~ Koko - we named him when we thought he was a girl. The name stuck so we just changed the spelling of it.

He's pretty small and I don't think he'll get too much bigger. He can fit inside Shelby's shoe!

Between him and Miss Pearl who's only 2....I've been a busy Grandma!

New Offering on Ebay

2011-08-08T19:56:00.001-04:00

Just a quick post to let you know that I've just added a new Primitive Halloween Pumpkin Hanger to my Ebay store. You can see it here.

Have a great night!

Giveaway - We have a Winner!

2011-08-04T20:03:00.001-04:00

First of all, I would like to welcome all new followers. I look forward to visiting all your blogs and getting to know you all. I love reading all comments so please feel free to comment as much as you like :)

Now...I got Miss Pearl to draw t he lucky winner...

and her name is...

Lynn of Life on the Wienee Ranch. Congrats Lynn, I'll be emailing you shortly for your address!

Last day to sign up for Giveaway!

2011-08-03T10:05:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow I'll be drawing the name for my giveaway. Don't forget you MUST leave a comment to let me know you'd like to win! Comment on original post only. You can find it here

Primitive Halloween Candy Bin

2011-08-01T10:27:00.001-04:00

Just listed this Primitive Candy Bin that I hand painted for Halloween in my Etsy shop. You can see more photos and info on it here

Firecracker Kid Primitives Giveaway

2011-08-01T09:45:00.003-04:00

Carol is having a wonderful giveaway on her blog. She's giving away one of these beauties. Pop over and sign up for your chance to win by clicking here.

Giveaway and Halloween Milk Stool listed on Ebay!

2011-07-28T20:22:00.001-04:00

I've just listed a Primitive Halloween Milk Stool that I've hand painted on Ebay. You can check it out here to see more photos if you'd like.

Now...on to the giveaway!

One lucky winner will receive this Prairie Stump Doll that I've made AND this pin keep that I've stitched using a free pattern from Betty of primitivebetty's. She's got some amazing patterns and she's so generous to offer a lot of them for free! Thanks Betty, I love your designs!

Click on image for a better look.

All you have to do to enter is be a follower of my blog....new followers are always welcome *smile*, and make a comment on this post only.

I'll let Miss Pearl pick the lucky winner a week from today....Aug 4th.

Miss Hailie Pearl turns 2

2011-07-20T20:35:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was Miss Pearl's 2nd birthday! She calls it her "Be Happy Day"....too cute! We had a BBQ with family and friends and she had a blast!

Here are a few photos of Grandma's big Girl!

Hailie with her Mom (my oldest) Santana. Hailie and I made the hat ourselves as I couldn't find any birthday hats anywhere! I tried 5 different stores and they were all sold out so we improvised...hehe

Getting ready to blow out the candles...she practiced a lot on my Birthday a couple of weeks ago and she's a pro at it now!

Of course she got spoiled rotten and I'll have to add on another room soon for all her toys....but that's what being a Grandparent is all about....right????

I'd talk about how hot it is up here right now but I'm afraid my keyboard is melting as I type this....stay cool friends!

Primitive Halloween Labels are up for Instant Download this year!

2011-07-18T12:26:00.000-04:00

How's everyone surviving this heat wave? We've had a few days in the 90's and I find that's way too hot for me! So I've been inside a lot working on Fall and Christmas stuff.

This year I've decided to make my Primitive Halloween Labels available as instant downloads. These were great sellers last year when I printed them out and mailed them to customers. But this year I thought, why not make it easier for people by offering them as instant downloads. This way you can print out as many as you like to use on old bottles, jars, etc...

I've only got a few up now but I hope to get more listed today and tomorrow.

http://www.wyldcountry.com/Labels.html

Stay cool friends!

Merry Christmas in July for Me - Giveaway Goodies from Connie!

2011-07-11T19:24:00.001-04:00

I won Connie's (Cabin Fever Primitives) giveaway on June 29th and received my package today! I never expected it would arrive so quickly with 2 holidays in there! I have to tell you it was really like Christmas in July for not only me, but for Shelby and Hailie as well. They love opening up mail that I get and when we saw how beautifully wrapped everything was they of course wanted to help :)

Connie really outdid herself and spoiled us rotten (there were 3 lucky winners). I have to admit, I entered because of the gorgeous prim tote she had made but I never imagined I would get all the amazing prim goodies she included with it. Even the tissue paper was prim perfection! I can't find tissue paper like that up here so I carefully folded it all and put it away...LOL

Just look at all the loot!

Love the way everything was so carefully and beautifully wrapped Connie! Thanks for taking the extra time to do that!

So many prim goodies to enjoy!

This gorgeous handmade tote with a recipe for Hillbilly Cinnamon Rolls on the inside pocket...can't wait to try them! This tote will be used a lot!

A 1776 Prim Flag that is already hung in my kitchen. Gorgeous bunch of Americana Fabric (which is extremely hard to find here). A crow mug which I'm using as I type this post! A handmade photo album, a prim hanging board with music sheet and stained cheese cloth hanger which was wrapped in homespun, a Christmas cookie cutter set, some wax tarts, a wax crow and 3 wonderful cookbooks! How did you know I like Amish and Christmas recipes Connie? LOL

There was an amazing smelling air freshener called Country Fried Apple Fritter that smells so darn good! And last but not least some wonderful handmade goat milk soap!

I can't thank you enough for your friendship and all the wonderful goodies Connie!

Isn't it funny how through blog-land you can make such a connection with some people? I know I sure have made some wonderful friends since I've started blogging and I hope that continues for many years to come. Who knows, maybe I'll even get the chance to meet a few of you someday!

Hope you all have a great week!

Santa's Village Trip

2011-07-08T19:33:00.003-04:00

This week was a busy one. Tuesday was a beautiful day so we decided to head to Bracebridge to take Hailie to Santa's Village. The last time we were there Shelby was pretty young and I think she enjoyed going back too. This is where Santa relaxes in the summer months :)

She wasn't too fussy about meeting Santa so she was holding pretty tight to Grandpa.

Miss Pearl got to meet Dora but she was a bit shy!

Hailie flying her first plane.

Hailie and Shelby on carousel.

We got to feed Donner and Blizten and the gang.

We even took a ride on Santa's Summer Sleigh!

Wednesday was my birthday and the day was filled with family, friends, and a wonderful night by a bonfire. I was too busy having fun to take any photos though.

Have a great weekend!

Mom, Dad, Miss Pearl, and a Good Ole Country Store

2011-07-02T19:30:00.000-04:00

Here is a photo I took last night of Mom and Dad with Miss Pearl standing on the front of their country store between the 2 flags we have. I just love how it turned out! (click to enlarge)....such a blessing to have Hailie so close to her Great Grandparents...we're all truly blessed!

My hubby is American (from Texas) so it's nice to have both flags to display. Many people have driven by honking their horns so they must appreciate both as we do.

Here's another picture that was from a few nights ago with Hailie playing a bean bag toss game with both Mom and Dad. She's got the right idea...instead of standing back to toss them, she just walks up and drops it in the hole she wants! Too cute!

Happy Saturday!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T15:09:00.000-04:00

Just a quick post today to wish all my fellow Canadians a very Happy Canada Day! We'll probably be BBQ'n and watching fireworks tonight. It's a hot sunny day with no clouds in sight - a perfect day to celebrate!

I wanted to leave you with this photo of Miss Pearl. She does NOT like anyone doing anything to her hair so I was happy when she let me put in these pig tails. She's growing up quick!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Wellington County Museum - 1920's Kitchen

2011-06-28T21:34:00.001-04:00

I found this exhibit so interesting....so many items that I collect now and a few I remember my Mom having in our kitchen when I was a young child. I hope you enjoy the photos :)

Love this child's set with the red chairs!

I was on the lookout for a large yellow ware bowl like this at the antique stores when we were down there but I never found one that big. I'm still on the prowl for one...LOL

I'd also like to have one of these. It would go so nice with my enamelware collection! So would the wood cook-stove in the back...but I'd settle for the table. I don't have room for a cook-stove :(

Well that's it for tonight. Miss Pearl tuckered me out today. Have a good one!

Wellington County Museum - Pioneer Log Cabin Exhibit

2011-06-26T13:25:00.000-04:00

Here are some photos of the Pioneer Exhibit that is an ongoing Exhibition at the Wellington Museum. The photos do not do it justice - the murals were amazing! As always, just click on the photos to get a better look.

Showing some of the farm tools that were used daily.

Bringing the berries home.

These murals must have taken so long to complete - they're so detailed!

Notice the young girl making hand dipped candles.

Everyone pitching in and doing work - maple syrup time!

Love the hutch with dough bowl and crocks!

How many things can you pick out that are collected by us now? I found at least 10!

Love love love the blue trunk and coverlet!

Hope you all enjoy your Sunday! The weather is hot and sunny here and baby just woke up so I think we'll go out and play a while.

Wellington County Museum

2011-06-25T18:14:00.000-04:00

Last March we took a weekend road trip and visited the beautiful town of St. Jacobs and while traveling around the back roads we came across this huge old Museum and we just had to go check it out!

The museum is a National Historic site and listed as the oldest House of Industry in Canada. They have some permanent displays as well as new and different exhibits. The museum was built in 1877 and provided shelter for the poor, the aged, and the homeless for almost a century. I could just feel the history oozing out of every nook and cranny in that place. It was kinda eerie!

Here are a few photos that I took....I took a lot so I'll do more posts on it as I sort through the photos on my computer.

It stands on the top of a hill overlooking The Grand River between Fergus and Elora.

There is a barn and other out buildings to the left.

This is a hand painted mural that depicts what it would have been like when it was welcoming people into it's doors.

There are a lot of posters on the walls with interesting information about the House. (click to enlarge)

We were lucky to be there when they had the exhibits "A Century of Kitchenware" and "Keeping Clean"- a look at laundry over the years. Here's a sneak peek at some of the wonderful items on display.

I'll share more in another post.

Old Wooden Doors

2011-06-23T14:32:00.000-04:00

I love old wooden doors. It doesn't matter what kind of a building they're on or if they are interior or exterior...I love them all! Here are a few of my favorite photos that I've taken over the years of these beauties.

The first two I took on our recent trip to Ottawa. They're on the Parliament Buildings.

The next 4 were taken on our wonderful short trip to Charleston SC in 2007. They are on some of the historic buildings and homes we passed while taking a horse drawn carriage ride. I love you Charleston and I can't wait to visit you again!

And this last one is on a beautiful old stone building in St. Jacobs. They make the most amazing wizard brooms - just like the ones in Harry Potter!

Hope you're all having a great Thursday!

New Finds and help needed for display!

2011-06-21T19:40:00.000-04:00

We have a new Antique store in the small town where I live....in fact it's been there since Feb! I've never noticed it as it's tucked away in a small corner of the one strip mall (if you can call it that) that I drive by almost every time I go to town. That just goes to show how observant I am :)

There are 4 dealers in there and the stuff they have is all antique/primitive and very $$$! I only found a few items that I would be willing to pay that much for and the next time I go, I'll try to take a few photos.

I did purchase this wooden Coca Cola box that I love. He was asking $20 but he gave it to me for $15. Believe it or not that's not a bad price around here. I know you can probably get them a lot cheaper elsewhere but I never seem to get a chance to go to the great Antique places that Southern Ontario has.

My problem is this...I'm not sure how to display it or what to put in it. I was thinking some old bottles with cheese cloth wrapped around the lids but it's quite high at 13 inches and I don't have any bottles that big. It also has a board in the middle to separate it in half. Any suggestions or ideas are very welcome :)

I also found this old watering can at a recent farm/barn sale. It's a bit dented on one side but still a great find!

That's about all that's ~~new~~ old around here for now. Have a great night!

Company from BC and Hockey Night in Canada...Redneck Style

2011-06-20T10:34:00.000-04:00

This past week my beautiful Niece Monique and her Husband Dylan came from British Columbia for a visit. Monique's family and Dylan's family all live in Ontario so they got to see everyone when they came down. Now we just need to convince them to move back here - they love the west coast though so it may not happen for a while. Monique is pregnant with their first child and she is going to be a GREAT Mom!.

Monique, Dylan, and her Dad (my brother) Vic.

Miss Pearl took to her like a bee to honey! This was the first time they'd met and Hailie would not let her out of her sight!

We went fishing, swimming, and enjoyed the Waterfront park in North Bay. The weather was perfect!

On Wednesday night we enjoyed the Hockey Game - redneck style! We decided to bring my brother's big screen TV outside to watch the game and have a bonfire. Some friends came over too so it's a good thing we had it outside - none of our living rooms were big enough to hold everyone.

As a side note, I was and still am very ashamed at how terrible some of the people in Vancouver rioted after the game. Shame on you! Canadians are more sportsmanlike than that! The sad thing is, they probably would have done the same thing if Vancouver had won the cup. There are always a few bad apples in a crowd that size that seem to get the others going. The VPD have made several arrests thanks to digital photos that everyone took with their cell phones, ipods, etc. I think they should be made to pay for the damage they did as well - but they'll probably get a slap on the wrist and probation!

I am very proud of the volunteers that went out the next day to start the clean up and help shop owners get back to some kind of normalcy. Now, that's the Canadian way - helping each other!

Monique and Dylan live in Vancouver and I think they were thankful they were in Ontario when that happened.

Congrats to Boston for playing a great series and winning the cup!

Photo Restorations

2011-06-11T18:12:00.000-04:00

Quite a few years ago I took an interest in digitally restoring old photos. The first one I ever attempted was this one of my Dad when he was working at a service station in his younger years. This was mostly a colorization more than a restoration but I thought I would share it anyway. I colorized him and left the background in the original black and white. Click to enlarge. Such a handsome man!

This next one was one I did for a client. This was her late husband and she wanted the photo restored and colorized. She was very happy with the results.

Another one where the photo had been folded and kept in a wallet. Restored and colored.

And this one was a colorization of a client and her 2 sisters.

If you would like to have one of your photos restored or colorized just email me. Prices start at $150.00. Everything is handled through email and the finished photo will be emailed to you so you can print out as many copies as you like.

Makes a wonderful gift for family & friends!

Cooler and Quiet around here

2011-06-10T12:11:00.001-04:00

The hot summer temps we experienced last week are gone and now it's actually pretty cool again - which I don't mind cause I'm not a fan of hot humid weather.

We went to dinner at my oldest daughters place last night and I got to visit with baby Evie. She's growing so fast and starting to crawl already! Of course I forgot my camera :(

Here's a photo of where the new large barrel ended up for the summer. I think in the winter I'm going to cut down a small tree to put inside and decorate it by my back entrance for Christmas but for now it's going to stay put in the garden - it's a heavy sucker!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

A day at the Beach!

2011-06-05T22:17:00.001-04:00

Today was a day for relaxing and family time. We decided to head to our favorite beach just a couple of miles down the road from us. It's at a resort that is run by friends and has a gorgeous sandy beach. First we had lunch and then some play time. My brother took us out for a ride on his boat later which was a perfect ending to a great day. We headed home around 4 PM and then I told my parents I would work the store for them so they could go out and enjoy part of the day too - they went out fishing on their boat that's docked at the same resort. They work too hard so it was nice to see them relax a bit too! They only caught a few Perch and a tiny Pickerel that they threw back but I'm sure they enjoyed their time alone.

I REALLY needed an afternoon like this - I miss living by the water more than I can put into words - and ~~if I ever~~ when I win the lottery, the first thing I'm going to do is buy a house on the lake!

This is Grandpa with Miss Pearl in the tower overlooking the lake.

Shelby made a new friend right away and we soon found out that that dog would never get tired of playing fetch in the water. He literally did it for hours and was still wanting to play.

Grandpa and Miss Pearl watching a duck.

Miss Pearl with her Aunt Shelby making a sand castle. Shelby's so good with her and I'm very thankful for that - she's very patient with her and loves to play which is good cause this Grandma has a hard time keeping up!

Time to cool off - the water was actually pretty nice considering we've had some chilly nights.

Some play time on the swings.

Time to pack up and go home.

I wish I had taken some photos of the boat trip but my eyes were on Miss Pearl the whole time. She doesn't sit still long - maybe next time.

Pool time fun, wicked storms, and no more gazebo

2011-06-02T09:02:00.000-04:00

We had the hottest day of the year so far on Tuesday - it was 30C and gorgeous! Hailie spent the day in the pool and when Aunt Shelby came home she joined in for some more fun. They ran through the hose and played in the pool - I need a bigger pool if Shel's gonna continue joining Miss Pearl *smile*

Then the storms came through late Tuesday night - I've never seen a lightening show like that in my life. The wind was blowing the rain sideways and the treetops were trying to kiss the ground. We lost our power for about 3 hours - some were out all day yesterday so we were lucky! Our internet was down all day yesterday so I wasn't able to get online - it's funny how you miss your internet when it's down- even if I only have a few minutes each day to use it.

Then I woke to this on Wednesday morning...

It's hard to see in this photo but the roof is ripped to shreds.

The siding came off the peak of my parent's store...

and landed on my car. Only one tiny scratch on the back door....whew!

It's still pretty windy here but at least the sun is shining, and we are very thankful that we don't get the terrible tornadoes that the south gets. We only get one or two every few years and they're usually pretty small. There was talk of one touching down somewhere the other night but I haven't read anything official about it yet.

Track and Field

2011-05-31T21:30:00.000-04:00

My daughter Shelby decided to get involved with Track and Field at her school this year at the urging of her gym teacher. She went in for Shot Put, Javelin, and Discus. She won a 3rd and 4th ribbon for Shot Put and placed 5th in Javelin which made her advance to the semi finals. She didn't place in the semi finals but she had a lot of fun and got to go for an overnight trip with her team.

Here she is throwing Shot Put

Her and Hailie at one of the meets at her school.

Her school still has final meets coming up, I hope they do well. GO BEARS!

Miss Pearl, a turtle, and a new barrel

2011-05-29T21:20:00.000-04:00

Can you believe someone was throwing this out??? I couldn't! My brother was working at a house for the past week and the house next door had this old whiskey barrel and some tires at the roadside for free so he brought it home for me! I LOVE IT! He took a hammer and fixed the slots(?) that were out of shape. I'm not sure where it will go yet but I'm thinking it would look great in our garden beside or under my old water hand pump.

My Mom went shopping and bought Miss Pearl some new summer clothes. Here she is looking pretty in her new dress.

I love this next photo - it's like she's saying "oh no, the butterfly fell". She's actually just trying to keep the hair out of her face...it's been a very windy spring for us so far.

And this visitor showed up last week in the parking lot of my parent's store. We didn't get too close because he was snapping at a stick my brother put in front of his face - course, I'd be snapping if someone was trying to poke me with a stick too! There seem to be a lot more turtles around this year. Sadly, I've already seen 3 as roadkill on the highway by our place.

I'm still pluggin' away at simplifying or decluttering my house. Little by little it WILL get done. I never realized what a pack rat I am. NO MORE! I think a yard sale will be in order soon - maybe a few!

Crazy busy but we did take some time for a bit of fun at the Midway!

2011-05-25T20:57:00.000-04:00

I've been so busy lately it's nuts! I'm finally feeling well enough with some energy to start de-cluttering my house - and boy what a job this is going to be! I know I'll feel so much better when it's done though!

Saturday was gorgeous outside so we headed to the Midway that was in town. Miss Pearl looked a bit overwhelmed when she saw all the crowds and loud rides going but once we were in the "kiddie" area she was OK. This was her first time on rides and she really seemed to enjoy it.

Santana and Hailie holding on tight.

Shelby and Hailie.

Miss Evelynn slept through most of it and Santana won Hailie a stuffie! A good time was had by all and we slept good after all that fresh air!

I love wooden barrels! And now I have 2 more!

2011-05-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

I just love the look of old worn out wood whether it's on a barn, furniture, or just in an old house like baseboards and door trims, so I was extremely happy when my Mom came home last weekend from a garage sale with this beauty!

And then a few days later my neighbour who knows I love all things primitive and antique brought this one over for me.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do with them but for now they're sitting proudly in my gazebo.

Any ideas for their use???

May 24 Weekend - As we call it in Canada!

2011-05-20T21:46:00.000-04:00

Well this weekend (Victoria Day) officially kicks off the start of the summer and the start of fishing season here in Northern Ontario, and tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and hot! I've got my gazebo up and started decorating it and my brother's boat is in the lake and he's like a kid on Christmas morning...can't wait to haul in some pickerel! Dad's boat will be going in soon!

Here's a pic of our gazebo. We got it up just in time cause those nasty ~~little~~ HUGE bugs are out in full force now. Can't win....black flies all day long and mosquitoes all night! I'm very thankful for the gazebo!

A shot of it in the evening with the lights on. I have my new Jupiter lantern that I bought from Lehman's that I'll be hanging in it too! It's so nice and cozy and best of all....pretty much BUG free!

Tomorrow I'll be taking all kids (my two Daughters and two Granddaughters) to the midway that's in town for the weekend. Should be interesting to see if Miss Pearl likes the rides or not - Miss Evelynn is too small yet, but I'm sure she'll enjoy riding in the stroller and soaking up some Vitamin D!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Black Bear Season

2011-05-19T11:55:00.000-04:00

Here in Northern Ontario it's Black Bear season. I've only ever come across one while driving down the road - there was a Mama and 2 cubs crossing in front of me.

I thought I would post a few tips of what to do if you come across one while hiking, biking, walking the baby in the stroller, etc... Please remember these are only tips that I've taken from several sources and the best course of action is to always avoid them.

Stop and remain calm, assess the situation and try to understand what message the bear is conveying before you decide what to do.
Never approach a bear.
Don't run - unless reaching a safe place is guaranteed. Bears can out run you and can reach speeds of 50 km/h.
Bears are excellent climbers and strong swimmers - remember this before you decide to climb a tree or jump in the lake to get away.
If you're near a building or car, get inside.
Make yourself as large as you can by reaching your arms over your head and yelling loudly. If it thinks you are bigger than it, chances are it won't approach. ( Many people that live in my area have suggested this one.)
Carry a loud whistle or air horn with you when walking or jogging.

Some tips for Bear proofing your Backyard:

Keep garbage indoors or in a closed shed and don't put it out to the curb until the day of pickup.
Keep pet food indoors.
Bird feeders should be at least 8 - 12 feet above the ground.
Pick fruit from trees as soon as it's ripe.

As soon as the weather gets a bit nicer and my back stops hurting so much I plan on starting a walking routine with Miss Pearl and you can be sure that I'll have a whistle, (probably and air horn too), and my cell phone with me. The road we walk on has dense brush and forest on both sides with only a few homes scattered here and there.

New Giveaway at Thru Nana's Window

2011-05-18T21:34:00.001-04:00

My friend Angela is having a mystery giveaway - her first one- on her blog when she reaches 100 followers. Hope you'll all pop over and check out her blog and sign up! Can't wait to see what she's making!
Here's the link http://thrunanaswindow.blogspot.com/

Miss Pearl has her first bike and it's so Cool!

2011-05-18T18:16:00.000-04:00

We got Hailie her first bike the other day. Her legs are a bit short to reach the pedals but it won't be long. I love the fact that it has steering for adults at the back. She loves being pushed on it and it gives her the idea of how to turn and what to do. She has a helmet but wasn't wearing it for the photo. My brother was pushing her in this photo - she just loves him and calls him Big Guy.

My Dad and Miss Pearl

2011-05-17T21:50:00.000-04:00

Here's a photo I took the other day of my Dad and Miss Pearl (his Great Granddaughter) sitting on the front steps of my parent's Country Store. I just LOVE it!

Canadian Flag Cake

2011-05-17T12:24:00.000-04:00

I found this recipe while going through my piles and piles of magazines that I'm trying to organize. That's another post in itself that I'll be sharing soon!

With strawberry season and Canada Day around the corner, I thought it would be a good idea to post it now. I haven't tried it yet but with Jello, Cool Whip, and fresh strawberries, how can you go wrong? Sounds delicious!

1. Line bottom of 13 x 9 in. baking pan with sliced Sara Lee Pound Cake - you can use any pound cake or make your own from scratch.

2. Dissolve 2 pkgs Strawberry Jello mix in 2 cups boiling water. Add 3 cups ice cubes and stir until slightly thickened (about 3-5 mins) Remove any unmelted ice cubes. Still in 2 cups sliced strawberries. Spread over cake slices. Chill 10 minutes.

3. Spread Cool Whip topping on top of jelly mixture. Chill for 2 hours. Garnish with additional strawberries arranged to resemble the Canadian Flag.

TIP: Trace a maple leaf on the cake using a toothpick. Place a strawberry tip in each point and fill in the rest of the shape.

Miss Pearl & The Squirrel

2011-05-16T12:37:00.000-04:00

We have a returning visitor and this year Miss Pearl and I are making friends with her. She's not afraid of either of us but will let Miss Pearl get a lot closer to her than I can. I think I'm too big and scary lookin'! It's now part of our daily routine to go out and feed the "quirl" 3 times a day.

Our trip to the Nation's Capitol & some good news!

2011-05-13T18:09:00.001-04:00

Our trip went well and the Doctor said she could fix my eye…YAY! No more double vision! Unfortunately, it won’t clear up the scarring or floaters I still have from the aneurysm, but hey, after 22 years I’m kinda used to it. At least my eye will be realigned and the double vision will be gone! She explained the whole procedure to me and I cringed at the last part….IF YOU’RE SQEEMISH ABOUT EYES LIKE I AM, YOU MIGHT WANT TO SKIP READING THIS NEXT PART AND MOVE ON TO THE PHOTOS OF OUR TRIP! Just scroll down really fast...LOL
– she has to leave one stitch coming out of my eye so the next day she can make sure we’re both happy with the results. If not she has to pull and tweak on that stitch a bit to rearrange the muscle. My whole body would tense up completely every time I thought about this part over the past few days. I’m now just able to type it and think about it without cringing and tensing up. Like the doctor said to me when I was squirming in the chair when she explained this to me…..”After everything you’ve been through, you think THIS is bad???” And she’s right! I’ve been through so much worse in my lifetime! She said it will only feel like pulling out an eyebrow hair and only lasts 1 –2 seconds. So I guess I’m gonna pull up my big girl pants and have it done! It will be sometime in the next 6 months. I’ll have to be in Ottawa anywhere from 2-4 days and won’t be able to do any lifting or anything strenuous for 2 weeks. Unfortunately that means I won’t be able to lift Miss Pearl so I’ll need some help in that area. My wonderful family will help me out…aren’t families great? I know mine sure is and I know how lucky I am to have their love and support. The doctor also said that it’s possible that I will have to have it done 2 or 3 times in my life as it’s not the eye causing the problem, it’s my brain. Apparently it’s very common in people that have had any kind of head trauma…interesting! All this time I thought it was because my eye was moving to the area where it could see through the scarring. They sure can do amazing things to a person compared to 50 years ago!

Some photos I took of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. Click to enlarge...the detail in the construction of these buildings is amazing!

Supreme Court of Canada

Here are a few more random photos of Ottawa...typical overcrowded city but as you can see in the photos it was a warm spring day with clear blue skies which made it easier to swallow - not a fan of big cities at all!

The tulips are blooming everywhere in the city.

Hope you all have a warm sunny weekend!

Happy Mother's Day and I'll be back soon!

2011-05-07T22:13:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to take a moment to wish all Mother's, Grandma's and Great or Great Great Grandma's a wonderful and Happy Mother's Day.

My Mother is the Greatest of them all and I love Her with all my heart! I don't think I'd be the kind of person I am or I'm becoming without her unconditional love and understanding through all the years. She's taught me so much....most of all how to be forgiving and understanding when it seems like the hardest thing to do! I LOVE you MOM!

I'm off to Ottawa early Monday morning to see an ophthalmologist to see if she can fix the eye I'm still blind in from my brain aneurysm 22 years ago. I doubt she can do anything about the scar tissue that was caused from the bleed itself but now my eye has become "lazy" and has been causing problems by veering off to the side (where it can see best through the scarring) and it's causing some double vision and more headaches. I sure hope she can fix it!

I'll be back on Tuesday and hopefully all will go well :)

A Funny Deer Story and a few new changes

2011-05-05T12:26:00.000-04:00

I feed deer in my backyard during the winter months and usually don't during the rest of the year when they have a full supply of food. Well with the snowstorm we had in April I woke to find all kinds of tracks in my back yard. We had some leftover corn feed and my Dad decided to put it out for them. I like to go out and take photos of them as they come right up to my deck and they aren't too scared of me anymore. I can stand on the deck while they eat and I talk to them in a soft voice letting them know I won't hurt them. We usually get 3 does that come every night.

So one night, right after dark, I grabbed my trusty camera and went out on the deck. I didn't see any deer in the regular feeding spot so I took another step forward. Well I guess this buck was standing at the edge of the house and I couldn't see him but he saw me and snorted at me. It scared the bejeebies out of me and I turned towards the door rather quickly which in turn made the shovel I keep on the deck fall down. I thought the darn thing was coming on the deck after me and I bolted into the house. It's a good thing we live out in the country and it was dark because it must have been quite the sight. I actually didn't know what had snorted at me which scared me even more - it could have been a bear or the abominable snowman!

I went to tell my parents about it. (We all live in the same house with separate living quarters). My Dad told me it was probably a big buck - which makes sense and probably wouldn't have been so scary if I had known that! Here's a photo of one of the does I took a few nights later. They're so beautiful and I love having them so close.

Over the next little while I'll be making some changes to this blog so please bear with me while I get them done. It's gonna take a while because I'm not on the computer much but I think it will be worth it in the end. I'd like it to be more organized for me and for all of you that visit!

Happy May & some random photos

2011-05-02T12:43:00.001-04:00

First, just let me say that today is a great day in that Osama bin Laden is shark food! God Bless all the men and women who fought and continue to fight the terrorists of this world!

Wow, I can't believe how fast time goes! I've been meaning to post some of the latest photos I've taken but I never seem to get much computer time anymore. Taking care of a toddler literally is a full time job - actually it's more than that because she's on the go from 6-7 am until bedtime which is usually at 8 pm - sometimes later. Miss Pearl has never been a good sleeper - not even as a baby so by the time she's in bed sleeping, I'm just about ready for bed myself.

I have been reading my favorite blogs whenever I get a chance and commenting when I can. I just love all the friends I've made in blog-land and cherish each and every one of you that take time out of your busy schedules to read and comment on mine - Thank you so much!

Now that it has finally warmed up a bit we spend a lot of time outside - when it's not raining - which it's been doing a lot. We get one nice sunny day and then 3 or 4 of rain - but I guess that's what Spring is all about! Flowers are finally starting to bloom and the pussy willows are out. We cleaned up the yard a bit and have had a couple of bonfires on the nice evenings. For those of you who are new followers, I'm a bonfire junkie! There's nothing I like more than to sit by a roaring fire in my back yard while listening to thousands of croaking frogs and the occasional hooting owl.

Here are a few photos I've taken over the past couple of weeks.

Poor little birds scrambling for food during our hopefully last snowstorm on April 21st.

A turkey buzzard perched in a tree across the road. There were 3 of them that came for days to feast on a dead deer that was in the ditch. Those things are HUGE and amazing to watch in flight. They did a great job of cleaning up what was left of the deer - nature's clean up crew!

A shot of them flying away as I got too close for their liking.

Grand baby Evie sleeping through Easter dinner. She's getting so big!

Hailie Pearl at Easter - she's sitting in the rocking chair I had as a child. The chair is approximately 75 years old and I saw one just like it at an antique store for $95!

Miss Pearl collecting Easter eggs and presents on Easter morning.

My Mom and Hailie in the back yard enjoying the warmer weather.

My Dad and Hailie - I love this photo with my Dad sitting on the log beside our woodshed with my collection of old tools - looks so cool!

So that's what we've been up to! And of course praying for all the people in the south who were hit by those terrible storms and flooding.

Until next time...

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T14:37:00.000-04:00

Wishing everyone a Happy and Blessed Easter!

A very special day in our home today!

2011-04-23T14:14:00.000-04:00

Today is an amazing day in our home for 2 reasons! 17 years ago today my baby girl Shelby came into the world. Happy Birthday Shelby! We're having a family party today and next weekend she's having one with her friends. I hope to have a ton of photos to post soon!

Happy Birthday!

And 22 years ago today I had a brain aneurysm which the doctors said I wouldn't survive. They were wrong! God had different plans and I'm sure glad He did! You can read my story here if you'd like to.

Snow Day and more on the way!

2011-04-20T07:43:00.000-04:00

Well we got it! I was so hoping it would miss us but it found us! Supposed to get more all day and night too. School buses were all cancelled - kids are probably the only ones happy about this mess.

Winter Storm on it's way - I think someone forgot to tell the Weatherman that it's spring!

2011-04-19T12:05:00.000-04:00

Good thing I have a beautiful Grand baby and a lot of crafting to keep me busy! Still haven't started decorating for spring - it doesn't feel like spring yet!

Heidelberg and Beautiful Churches

2011-04-09T17:50:00.000-04:00

Here are a few more photos of the road trip we took a while back.

We drove to Heidelberg, which is just a few miles out in the country past St. Jacobs. The countryside is full of Mennonite farms and the little town is very quaint with old stone buildings filled with history.

This building was built in 1860 and was one a stage coach stop. It's now a restaurant, tavern and motel. The restaurant specializes in Pennsylvania Dutch and Canadian cuisine.

Here's another brick home that sits beside the local variety store. It's very typical of the homes in that area. I love the old porch on the front!

Here are a few photos of churches that I found beautiful. They're all over the towns and countryside in Southern Ontario.

Another Stitchery roll finished and listed on Ebay

2011-04-03T19:28:00.000-04:00

I've just finished and listed another Stitchery roll. I'm having so much fun with these! You can see it on Ebay here.

Hope everyone had a terrific weekend! It's finally warming up a bit here!

Wish we had shops like this up North!

2011-04-02T18:29:00.000-04:00

We found this shop while driving through St. Jacobs and I fell in love! This place was huge and had every kind of antique or collectible you could ask for! Deco art, dishes, signs, furniture and so much more. Sadly there weren't too many primitive booths. I swear that most of Canada has either skipped the whole primitive decor or it just hasn't caught on yet. The prim shops are hard to find and I even know a few that have closed up due to lack of sales.

I would love nothing better than to take a great big truck and head to Ohio and fill it up! Anyway, here are a few shots of the inside - I was too busy looking for treasures to take more photos. I always like to have Shelby with me when we go to places like this because she always points out the things I like that I sometimes overlook. She's got a great eye for cool and unique things as well.

Click on photos to enlarge!

This is the view walking through the front door. It's much bigger on the inside than it looks - there are about 4 or 5 rows like this!

I have a love for old washboards but I'm very thankful I don't have to use one!

Love these 2 photos and the old phone below.

Beautiful antique carriage and spinning wheel.

I wanted to buy everything in this booth but the prices were out of this world!

Hope your weekend is a good one!

Just listed on Ebay - Primitive Spring Stitchery/Sewing Roll

2011-03-27T20:11:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that I've finished a new Stitchery Roll and have it listed on Ebay here.
I used a primitivebetty's design in the cross stitch part. As with the roll I made for myself, it is completely hand stitched by me and would make a wonderful gift for yourself or the stitcher in your family.

Pictures of our trip to St. Jacobs

2011-03-25T17:38:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pics from our recent road trip. They can be enlarged by clicking on them.

I love the wheel marks on the driveway in this one. And of course the clothes hanging out on the line.

Beautiful rich farm land ready for spring.

My daughter Shelby has a fascination with taking photos of creeping looking trees and she's got some great shots of them.

Winter lingers while Spring fights for her right to begin

2011-03-23T13:49:00.000-04:00

Looking outside my window and at the sunny forecast, you'd think with all that sunshine spring would be here. But winter has a hold on us and isn't ready to leave yet. Look at those temps! COLD!

Forecast

Today

-3°C

Thu

-4°C
-17°C

Fri

-5°C
-18°C

Sat

-2°C
-16°C

Sun

-1°C
-16°C

Mon

1°C
-12°C

Tue

3°C
-10°C

Tuesday Display Chain - Recently Acquired

2011-03-22T14:50:00.000-04:00

Well this is the first time I've joined Misi's Tuesday Display Chain. I check out all the weekly blogs and love it but this time I have something to share too, so I thought I would join in. On our recent road trip to St. Jacobs, we hit a few antique stores in search of some yellow ware bowls which are extremely hard to find in our area.
I was lucky and found 2 of them that I liked and were in good shape.

I found some antique rolling pins and a masher too! The masher is well used and has several cracks in the bottom attesting to that - I love it!

I don't go antique hunting very often and there were so many wonderful things I wished I could bring back with me, but lack of finances and lack of room in our car made it impossible. I did take a lot of photos which I'll share in another post soon!

Road Trip to St. Jacobs and a new Primitive Black Cat bread board

2011-03-21T12:17:00.000-04:00

We went on a little road trip for a few days to the beautiful village of St. Jacobs. It's located in south west Ontario and one of my favorite places to visit. The surrounding Mennonite farms are incredible and we always take a trip out on the back roads to take in all their beauty.

Of course, no trip to St. Jacobs would be complete without visiting their famous Farmer's Market. Considering the time of year and how cold and windy it was, the place was packed. A lot of vendors inside but sadly not too many Mennonite ones this time of year. I like going in late summer - early fall when they're all there selling fresh produce from their buggies. I think another trip in the Fall will be in order :)

Miss Pearl having a hard time deciding what to have at the Market.

Ahh, a huge homemade oatmeal raisin cookie was the choice!

I have a lot more photos to share and will do that soon but I also wanted to show you the Primitive Black Cat bread board I just finished this morning. I think it turned out pretty good if I do say so myself *smile* You can find it in my Ebay store here if you're interested.

New Stitchery Roll

2011-03-15T12:26:00.000-04:00

Well, Grand-baby is feeling better but now I've got it :( It's just a bad head cold and sore throat so I hope it passes soon. I did manage to get a stitchery roll completed though and I love how it turned out. It's my own pattern and design and I took photos along the way so I can post a tutorial on here when I have more time.

Every time I have to drive someone to an appointment and sit waiting, I always wish I had brought something to stitch with me. So this will come in nice and handy to keep everything I need with me. This was completely hand stitched - I LOVE to hand stitch. I usually do it at night when Miss Pearl is sleeping and I'm watching TV - I find it to be very relaxing - except when the floss gets tangled! Not so relaxing when that happens!

Still here....

2011-03-10T19:24:00.000-05:00

Just been dealing with a bad head cold that's been going through the house. Miss Pearl has it pretty bad and I have a milder version of it....at least so far. We've had some pretty long nights and days but I think she's on the mending side of it now :) Spring break starts next week so I'll have Shel home with me all week! I can't wait! She's such a big help with Grand baby and we have a lot of fun together :) I've been reading blogs whenever I get the chance even if I don't always comment. There are so many great blogs I follow so it's hard to comment on all of them...I'd be here all day!

I'm also working on a few new things that I hope to be able to share with you soon. Until then, I'll keep wipin' noses and cuddling on the couch with Grandbaby.

What have I got myself into???

2011-03-05T18:13:00.000-05:00

I bought this cross stitch pattern a few years ago and it's been sitting in my cupboard taunting me! So last night I decided to start on it. It's a beautiful Victorian village Christmas scene and it's going to take me forever!

This is what I've got done so far...

And this is what it's supposed to look like when I'm done. Notice I said "supposed"...I always mess up and loose a few stitches here and there. Does that happen to anyone else?

Sometimes I wonder where my mind is!

Stuck in a rut....a Christmas rut!

2011-03-04T13:33:00.000-05:00

OK, so I’ve really been trying to get inspired to do Spring type crafts. I have purchased many patterns over the years for primitive Spring crafts and stitcheries but I can’t seem to put my heart into them… I’m still stuck in Christmas mode. As many of you know I’m a Christmas fanatic! I love ALL things Christmas…any time of the year, and though I know it’s over, and I should be crafting and decorating my home for Spring…I just can’t seem to do it. Maybe it’s the cold weather – we’re due for another winter storm this weekend, or maybe it’s just the fact that I find it very peaceful to be stitching Christmas samplers or making Christmas dolls…I dunno. I plan on doing a few Craft shows this Christmas so I guess it’s OK to start stock piling now. I know come October I’ll be scrambling around trying to find everything and wondering if I have enough to do a few shows so I guess that’s a good enough reason to keep crafting Christmas…at least that’s what I keep telling myself!

Somehow I pinched a nerve in my back a few days ago so I’ve been trying to rest and sit still as much as possible. Hard to do when you have a 1 1/2 year old to take care of and your mind is bursting with crafting ideas….so sad when the mind is willing but the body isn’t! Getting older has it’s disadvantages but it’s better than the alternative! Many people never have the chance to grow old and I try to stay positive about it. I just don’t like it when my body pushes back and tells me to slow down.

I did manage to get our taxes done this past week so that’s one good thing off my list. And I got a few Spring goodies made but I can't show them all yet....some are for an Easter giveaway I'll be posting soon.

Here is one of items I made and it can be found on Ebay. It's a OOAK item cause I didn't use a pattern - just started stitching and this is what came out. I like those kind of items best because there will never be another one the same *smiles*.

Here is another primitive bread board I made up too. I just love the checkered fabric - would look great in any kitchen. It's on Ebay too.

Hope you all have a wonderful Friday!

Bread Board and Rolling Pin

2011-02-28T21:45:00.000-05:00

I've seen these all over the internet lately and thought I'd try my hand at making some. I decided to add some cross stitching to them because I love hand stitching and it's something relaxing to do at night while the house is quiet. I just listed them on Ebay in separate auctions. I've got a few other spring items in the works and hope to have them completed soon.

Other than that, not much is new here - still waiting on spring to arrive!

Winter/Christmas Sale on Ebay!

2011-02-24T09:46:00.000-05:00

I need more space in my craft room so I'm having a sale on Ebay. A lot of items have been reduced and many will be listed with a starting price of 0.99! Can't beat that for a deal! Come take a peek!

This is what it looks like out my windwo today....guess winter's not over yet!

This kid got an A+ for this paper Prayer and Pledge Allegiance

2011-02-23T20:46:00.000-05:00

I was blog hopping today and read this at Crow's Creek Primitives

BY A 15 yr. OLD SCHOOL KID

New Pledge of Allegiance (TOTALLY AWESOME)!

Since the Pledge of Allegiance and The Lord's Prayer are not allowed in most Public schools anymore

Because the word 'God' is mentioned..... A kid in Arizona wrote the attached NEW School prayer:

Now I sit me down in school

Where praying is against the rule

For this great nation under God

Finds mention of Him very odd.

If scripture now the class recites,

It violates the Bill of Rights.

And anytime my head I bow

Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green,

That's no offense; it's a freedom scene..

The law is specific, the law is precise.

Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall

Might offend someone with no faith at all..

In silence alone we must meditate,

God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,

And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks...

They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.

To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,

And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.

It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,

We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong..

We can get our condoms and birth controls,

Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles..

But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,

No word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess,

When chaos reigns the school's a mess.

So, Lord, this silent plea I make:

Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Amen

If you aren't ashamed to do this, Please pass this on..

Jesus said, 'If you are ashamed of me, I will be ashamed of you before my Father.'

How to entertain a Toddler!

2011-02-17T19:06:00.000-05:00

Bring out the keyboard! Miss Pearl had a blast with it last night. Every time she even hears music, she has to move or dance. Music is in her soul!

Easter Bunny Cupboard Tuck Pillow

2011-02-15T07:50:00.000-05:00

Easter bunny pillow that I made using a Terrye French design listed on Ebay last night. I just love her designs! Such a talented artist!

It's COLD here this morning! -21 C

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T17:08:00.000-05:00

My first Prairie Bonnet

2011-02-11T11:48:00.000-05:00

With a ton of help from my Mom who is an excellent seamstress, I finished my first Prairie Bonnet last night! They're harder to make than they look....LOL
I made it in a nice pastel pink to bring a touch of Spring to any home. I hope to have more finished soon. I just listed it on Ebay.

Free Valentine Graphics

2011-02-10T09:01:00.002-05:00

Here are a few of my mouse drawn graphics that you can use to decorate your blogs if you'd like to. Just right click to save. The first is one of my Freckle Kids and the bear is from my Dexter Bear collection.

Now I'm off to try my hand at making a primitive bonnet. Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday Santana!

2011-02-08T09:53:00.000-05:00

Today is my oldest daughter Santana's birthday! Where has the time gone? So many years have passed but it only feels like a couple!

Here's one of my favorite photos of her when she was young. Happy Birthday Sweetie! I hope your ~~day~~ life is filled with love and happiness. God Bless!

What a weekend!

2011-02-06T18:52:00.000-05:00

My oldest daughter has been in the hospital all weekend. I brought her to Emerge on Friday night. She had a C section when she had Evelyn about 6 weeks ago and developed an abscess right under her scar so they operated on her yesterday and she will be out tomorrow. It was the first time she had been operated on and put to sleep so she was pretty nervous about it. All went well and she's doing fine and up walking around now. I took a picture of baby Evie the other day with the hat I made her. Now her and big sister Hailie have matching hats. Too cute! Look at those pudgy cheeks!

And here's a picture of the 3 of them.

Keeping Room and Gathering Room Pantry Towels

2011-02-04T13:39:00.000-05:00

Well it's been a busy day here today but I managed to get 2 more Pantry cloths completed and listed on Ebay - hope you all have a great weekend!

New Pantry Towels

2011-02-03T14:48:00.000-05:00

Just listed 3 new Pantry Towels on Ebay

Hope everyone got through the storms OK :)

Need help finding a blog

2011-02-02T18:19:00.000-05:00

Help! A couple of days ago I visited a blog that had blue homespun for sale for $2.00 a yard. Does anyone know what blog it was???? I've searched and searched and can't find it again :(

Jester Hat and Tutorial

2011-02-01T19:14:00.000-05:00

I saw a cute photo of a child wearing a hat like this the other day and I wanted to make one for Miss Pearl so I did a search on google and found this great tutorial for one here. I changed it up a bit when making it and Miss Pearl just loves it. I had it completed in less than an hour - including some hand stitching that's required. I made one for baby Evelyn the other day too but she was sleeping and I didn't want to wake her just to take a picture. I'll try to get one soon.

I love x stitch pin keep

2011-01-31T15:55:00.000-05:00

Well it hasn't warmed up much here today so I've been busy playing with Miss Pearl. She's cutting her back molars and not too happy about it! I managed to finish this small cross stitch pin keep I started a while back. It's on Ebay here.

Staying warm and cozy

2011-01-31T09:13:00.001-05:00

It was -35C this morning. Good thing the sun is shining today - hopefully it will warm up a bit! Baby Evelyn is doing better and so is her Mom. They were over for a visit a few days ago and I finally got some new pics of her.

Thanks for all the prayers!

Grand Baby Evelynn

2011-01-25T10:30:00.000-05:00

Here is a new photo of my Grand Baby Evie - she's getting so big. She has a terrible cold now and is having a hard time breathing because of it - it's hard to drink from a breast or bottle when you can't breathe with your nose! My daughter has come down with it now too :(

We've taken Evelyn to the hospital a couple of days ago and of course there's nothing they can do because it's just a cold and has to do it's time. Santana, my daughter, is using a vaporizer and baby Tylenol for when her temperature rises. Poor little thing is only 1 month old!

Please keep her in your prayers! The power of prayer is amazing!

Are you tired of the saying "That's what she said!?"

2011-01-24T19:15:00.000-05:00

Me too! So last summer while sitting around the bonfire and listening to my hubby, brother, and male friends say it over and over again, I came up with an idea. A rebuttal for it via a saying on a woman's tank top. So of course I had to make one up on Cafe Press.

Click here to order yours directly from my store at Cafe Press.

New Camera

2011-01-23T14:01:00.000-05:00

A few months ago I bought this camera....still playing with it and trying to figure out the best settings to use in different situations. So far I'm pleased with the results I've been getting.

Here is a picture of Miss Pearl wearing one of my sweatshirts. She got it off my bed and carried it down the hallway while trying to put it on. It was too cute! Auntie Shelby helped her and I just had to take a few pics! I didn't notice the way she was holding her hands until after I'd uploaded them on my computer. She looks like she's praying.

Have a great Sunday and keep warm! It's BRRRRR here today -44C with the wind chill!

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-22T09:58:00.003-05:00

This is what I woke to yesterday morning and it was still snowing when I went to bed last night. There is nothing like waking up to a winter wonderland!

Hubby and I decided to take a ride on my brother's snowmobile on the trail across the road from us. It's part of the Ontario Snowmobile Trail System which means they are groomed trails and this particular one can take you as far as Toronto which is a 3 hour car ride from us. Hubby is from Texas and it’s the first time I’ve seen him on a snow machine – I think he enjoyed it even if I didn’t let him drive….LOL

I grew up on a snow machine but haven’t had one in 15 years or more so it’s nice to get out there again. I hope we can get one ourselves someday in the future.

As we took off into the fresh powdered forest it reminded me of the first Narnia movie when they walked out of the closet and into the snow. The scenery was incredible! Of course I brought my camera along for a quick photo shoot.

This morning it was -32C and it's not supposed to get much warmer than that so it'll be a day of cooking and crafting.

Primitive Pantry Towels

2011-01-20T07:57:00.000-05:00

Morning everyone :)
I was going to write this post last night but I was too wiped out. I've been so tired lately, that as soon as I get Miss Pearl to bed, I'm about ready for bed myself - the joys of having an under-active thyroid. Or maybe it's this cold weather and short days. I'm not complaining though, there could be a lot worse things to have or a lot worse areas to live in. I don't mind the cold and snow at all! I love having 4 very distinct seasons and I look forward to each one...just not too fussy about the -30C - -40C temps! LOL

Anyway, I finished these primitive pantry towels last night and listed them on Ebay. You can see them here http://shop.ebay.com/primcountrycupboard/m.html

Have a great day and stay warm! *smiles*

Empty Skating Rink

2011-01-16T20:51:00.001-05:00

Not a kid on the skating/hockey rink tonight. Can't say that I blame them! It's -23 C (-9 F) here. The old lake will be making ice tonight....ice fishing next weekend hopefully.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2011-01-15T17:43:00.000-05:00

Dad and Great Grand-baby Hailie (Miss Pearl)

Today is my Dad’s 78th birthday! He’s the most amazing, strongest, kindest man I know. Which goes well with my Mother who is exactly the same. You couldn’t meet 2 nicer people if you tried! I’m so very proud and lucky to be their daughter. Their family has always come first– they both like to see everyone happy and like to take care of everyone. I am truly blessed to have them as parents!

Dad started working at the age of 15 in 1948, and he and my Mom STILL work 7 days a week in the small country store they own. He has a garage and works on cars whenever a customer needs it. He has had return customers for years – some that travel very far just so he can work on their cars because they trust him and know he’ll do a great job.

Happy Birthday Dad!

Next Canadian Idol winner?

2011-01-13T18:59:00.000-05:00

Little Miss Pearl (Hailie's middle name and what I call her most times) is learning to ~~sing~~ jabber on the microphone with Aunt Shelby (Be Be as Miss Pearl calls her). My daughter Shelby has an amazing voice and hopefully Miss Pearl will get her Aunt's voice and her Mother's ear for music.

My new Jupiter Lantern

2011-01-12T19:13:00.002-05:00

I ordered a new Jupiter lantern from Lehman's - the first order I've ever placed with them. I was very happy with the customer service I got on the phone, the shipping charges and shipping time (2 weeks to Canada), and I'm very pleased with the lantern itself.

In an effort to reduce our hydro costs, I'm going to try using a lantern in my kitchen in the evenings when supper and the dishes are all done and since my computer desk is in the kitchen, I'm writing this post by lantern light.

It's really not that bad. Of course it wouldn't be ideal for the sewing and crafting I do at my kitchen table but it's fine for when I'm on the computer. It will be interesting to see if it helps - can't hurt trying right! Did you know that 1 in 5 Canadians can't afford rent AND hydro? I'm sure it's the same in the US and other parts of the world. I can't imagine having to choose between the two and I'm very thankful I don't have to.

Grand Baby Evelynn's 1st checkup

2011-01-11T19:04:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I took my Daughter and new Grand-baby Evelynn to the doctor for her first checkup...it's already been 3 weeks...time sure does fly by. Doctor said she's doing great and off the charts as far as weight and development go. She's over 11 lbs now! She's such a good baby, only waking to eat and then back to sleep again.

I hope to have more photos of her soon. Bad Grandma forgot her camera :(