The Farmer's Attic

Old Farmhouse Gathering 50 Club

2012-01-28T20:09:00.001-05:00

Looking for a great deal? The Old Farmhouse Gathering team is hosting an OFG 50 Club. Select items are listed at 50% the original price!!! Click on the banner above and check out some of the deals. Make sure you stop at the participants shops and click on the 50 Club section for other great deals!

Hurry!!!! Sales ends February 5th!

Heritage Red Velvet Cake

2012-01-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

I've started an account with Pinterest a few weeks ago and I love it! What a wonderful, inventive website but I have to be careful or this can take up a lot of my time!!! Check it out for yourself. You can follow me by clicking on the button below.

As you all know from my previous post, I love collecting fabrics, but I also love, love, love collecting and trying out new recipes. I found this Heritage Red Velvet Cake recipe and just had to try it out today. Awesome!!!! You can find the recipe by clicking here.

Now, if you stopped over to visit Sprinkle Bakes to see the recipe of the Heritage Red Velvet Cake, you've seen how beautiful that cake looks. Perfect for your Valentine don't you think?

I followed the recipe dividing the batter between three cake pans, baked, cooled, cut into heart shapes, made the cream cheese frosting (delish), frosted, dusted with the cake crumbs and this is how my cake looks:

It takes as good as it looks!!!

A Little Organizing

2012-01-21T14:09:00.001-05:00

It seems that every year I determine this is the year to get organized and every year it seems that I fall short :(

I've been doing a lot of ~~researching~~ drooling over sewing room photos on the internet and I need to say I became motivated to sort through, refold, and organize my stash of fabrics. Quite amazing how much I have accumulated over the years. Here are just a few photos of how far I've gotten.

This is not even all that I have left to do. My problem is not really the large pieces, it's the scrap pieces I have. Any suggestions on organizing them?

Share the Love Celebration

2012-01-17T09:38:00.000-05:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team on Etsy is having a Share the Love Celebration running now through January 30th. Click on the banner above and plan to spend some time shopping. All these items are new to the shops and haven't been seen on Etsy before. Get them while they are available. The slideshow below is just a small sampling of what you will find available for sale.

January White Sale

2012-01-06T08:54:00.000-05:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team on Etsy is having a January White Sale. Sale runs through Monday, January 9th. To visit the participating shops just click on the banner above. Lots of great items on sale at great discounts!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-12-31T13:54:00.000-05:00

On The Menu

2011-12-21T14:35:00.001-05:00

Each year for the past 32 years, I have had Christmas Eve dinner at my house. I love, love, love it!!! I enjoy planning the menu, shopping for the ingredients and spending the week preparing, cooking and baking! It's a lot of work but worth every minute of it.

Here's what's on the menu this year:

Shrimp Cocktail
Crab Cakes
Mozzarella Sticks
Pizza Bites
Ranch and Pecan Cheese Ball
Pesto and Cheddar Cheese Ball
Onion and Mustard Cheese Ball
Ham Tortilla Pinwheels
Sausage Wonton Stars
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Crackers
Melba Toast
Relish Tray
Meatballs
Garlic Bread
Garden Salad
Baked Mostaccioli
Oreo Cake

This isn't even close to what I used to serve. I've had to pair things down over the years since our family is scattered a little bit and we don't have as many at our table anymore. I used to also have on the menu two different soups, chicken, fish and dozens upon dozens of cookies!

If you would like to try one of my recipes, leave me a comment with your email address and I will send that to you!

From our house to yours - Merry Christmas!!! May the Lord bless you and your family this year and always!!!

~John & Lucy

The Three Little Pigs

2011-12-14T15:06:00.000-05:00

You may not have heard the story of The Three Little Pigs quite like this! (FYI: The cigarette in the video is an electronic cigarette!)

Holiday Open House

2011-12-05T05:47:00.000-05:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team is having their 1st Annual Holiday Open House on Etsy. The open house will run from today, December 5th through Friday, December 9th.

Many of the shops are having some pretty great deals to help you with your holiday shopping so plan to stay awhile! To visit the Old Farmhouse Gathering team shops just click on the banner above.

From the Hearts and Hands of the OFG Giveaway

2011-12-02T16:18:00.000-05:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team is having their last giveaway of the year! All you need to do is leave a comment the OFG blog post in order to be entered in the giveaway. Just click on the banner above! One winner will be chosen on Tuesday, December 13th. We would love it if you would you put the giveaway on your sidebar and invite your family, friends and followers to enter for a chance to win.

Please take a few minutes to visit the shops of those who have generously donated items for the giveaway:

Barb of Barb's Heartstrokes
Jacquie of Hand of Bela Peck
Kris of Maple Street Shoppe
Mary of Sugar Bush Primitives
Robyn of Motherlode Toad Factory
Vicky of Paintspots and Splinters
Natalie of Tins and Treasures
Pamela of Maplea's Rag Cloth Dolls & Animals
Marilyn of Harvest Moon Prims
Cindy of Always Primitive

You can also shop with other OFG members by clicking here.

The Government Can!

2011-11-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T00:00:00.008-05:00

John and I would like to say Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. We are very thankful and humbled by the wonderful people we have met over the past couple of years here on our blog, our website and on Etsy.

As most of you know, we are proud members of the Etsy team, Old Farmhouse Gathering. By way of saying thank you, the OFG is having a team thanksgiving sale. Below is a list of participating shops that are offering discounts beginning today and running through Tuesday, November 29th! Please stop by and visit. Make sure you use the coupon code OFGthanksyou2011 when making your purchase!

Again, thank you to everyone who has supported us all year.

Giveaway Winners Announced!

2011-11-13T19:24:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who entered the giveaway kicking off the Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show!!! Two winners were chosen using Random.org.

The first winner is Carol of Firecrackerkid Primitives. You can visit Carol's blog by clicking here.

Our second winner is Brenda of Pumpkin Hollow Primitives. You can visit Brenda's blog by clicking here.

Congratulations to these two wonderful ladies!!!

The Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show is now closed. Please visit The Farmer's Attic where you will find much more than was listed here this weekend. Thank you to all who have visited, followed and/or purchased from me. You are all a blessing. Thank you!!!

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Christmas

2011-11-13T14:10:00.001-05:00

Here are a few more winter items for sale this weekend at a 10% discount.

Elegant Santa Bath Towels

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care...This beautiful quilted Crazy Patch Christmas Stocking is hand embellished with lots of buttons and stitching. Fully lined measuring 13" (not including tab for hanging). Loads of room to fill with all your Christmas goodies.

Quilted Crazy Patch Christmas Stocking

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Winter 2

2011-11-13T08:06:00.003-05:00

This is the last day for our Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show. Thank you to all who have stopped by, become new followers, purchased and signed up for the giveaway!

A special thank you to Kim of Old Road Primitives for hosting the craft show! You can visit her blog as well as all the other participants listed on the right side bar.

For today's offerings, we will continue the theme of Winter.

Quilted Snowman Wallhanging

Snowmen are set against a blue/gray background. They are wearing black top hats and red and green scarves. Middle border is red, green and white checkerboard. Fabrics for the snowmen and middle border are made from cotton. Inside and outside borders and backing are black chintz. Snowman Wallhanging measures approx. 27" x 34 1/2".

Quilt has been hand quilted. Ready for hanging.

(Machine wash gentle cycle. Either lay flat to dry or dry on low setting in dryer.)

Snowman Bath Towels

~~$25.99~~ Sale $23.39 (+ $4.95 shipping)

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Winter

2011-11-12T18:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show

online!

For this weekend only, November 11-13, all prices reflect a 10% discount. Take advantage of this weekend to get your holiday shopping finished without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Keep your eyes open! We will be adding items throughout the weekend!!!

Winter SNOWman Display

Wonderful winter display measures approximately 17" w x 13" tall!!! Would look amazing on your fireplace mantle not only for Christmas but all winter long.

Letters and snowman are made from Warm and Natural batting, stuffed with polyfil and rags and has been painted and primmed using a coffee stain with vanilla and cinnamon. The muslin crow sits perched on top of the letter "S" and has been painted and primmed as well. Snowman wears a black felt top hat, "coal" eyes, rusty nail for his nose and a painted mouth. His buttons are rusty pins and rusty bells. He is also sporting a black homespun scarf around his neck. The "Let it Snow" sign is made from primmed parchment.

Lots of dried and preserved florals along with natural branches are used to give the snowman and the letters a great finish. (Pattern by Kentucky Primitives.)

Primitive Grungy Snowman and Mouse

This big guy stands approximately 15" tall. He is heavily coffee stained and wonderfully primmed. Made from Warm & Natural batting and firmly stuffed, stained and highly scented. He is decked out in his finest felt top hat and homespun scarf with a rusty bell. He is also sporting three rusty bells down his fat little belly.

If you look closely, you will see that he's been out in the snow for quite some time because there's a mouse that's made a comfy little nest on the snowman's shoulder! The mouse is made from stained muslin and his eyes are black glass beads. Hanging from his twig arm is a stocking made from an old quilt and is filled with dried naturals and a chenille candy cane.

You will enjoy this fellow throughout the winter season! (Pattern designed by Becky Erickson - TRP. Thanks Becky!!!)

Snowman Top Hat Lamp

Oh you'll LOVE this one! The upside down Frosty Snowman Hat is perfect for your winter season display.

The hat is lovingly handmade by me and is filled with all sorts of goodies. Included are an electric candle lamp which has a convenient on/off switch, four grungy snowmen faces and a primitive grungy star. Filled to the "brim" with berries, natural twigs, leaves and flowers.

The upside down hat is made with all cotton and is painted and stained black using my primitive grungy mix. It stands approximately 18" tall. (Pattern design by Becky Erickson - thanks Becky!)

Don't forget! You can sign-up for our giveaway by clicking here! Winner will be chosen tomorrow evening!

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Fall & Thanksgiving 2

2011-11-12T12:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show

online!

For this weekend only, November 11-13, all prices reflect a 10% discount. Take advantage of this weekend to get your holiday shopping finished without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Keep your eyes open! We will be adding items throughout the weekend with some surprises along the way!!!

Peaceful pilgrim lady kneeling to give thanks to her God for the harvest. She will add serenity and beauty to your home and will be a constant reminder of what we need to do each and every day!

Prayer of Thanksgiving - Small 9" Pilgrim Lady

Doll is approx. 9" tall and is made from muslin that has been dyed with a primitive mixture of coffee and cinnamon. Her "dress" is painted using black acrylic paint. Her hair is 100% sheep's wool that has been needle felted, not glued. She is holding preserved Sweet Annie which smells "heavenly"!

(Pattern designed by Sharon Mitchell.)

Prayer of Thanksgiving - Large 13" Pilgrim Lady

Doll is approx. 13" tall and is made from muslin that has been dyed with a primitive mixture of coffee and cinnamon. Her "dress" is painted using black acrylic paint. Her hair is 100% sheep's wool that has been needle felted, not glued. She is holding preserved Sweet Annie which smells "heavenly"!

(Pattern designed by Sharon Mitchell.)

Harvest Angel

Harvest Angel has words to live by: Be Thankful for Thy Simple Bounty! She can hang from your peg rack, as an autumn tree topper or anywhere you need her to remind you to be thankful for even the simplest things in life.

Angel's dress is made from homespun with Wings and apron stitched on osnaburg. Crow is made from black wool felt. In her hands is a burlap bag filled with twigs. Doll, apron and wings have been coffee stained for that primitive look we all love! Measures 18".

Don't forget to sign up for our giveaway. Just click on the photo above and leave a comment.

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Fall & Thanksgiving Sale

2011-11-12T06:00:00.004-05:00

For this weekend only, November 11-13, all prices reflect a 10% discount. Take advantage of this weekend to get your holiday shopping finished without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Primitive Crow Pie

The title says it all!!! Pie is made from muslin that has been coffee dyed and grungied up with lots of cinnamon. Also scented with oil of Cinnamon and Nutmeg. Crows are made of muslin that has been been painted black and rolled in cinnamon. Pie sits in a tin pie plate. Included is a tag that reads "Crow Pie". Spanish moss has been added to the top of the pie. Measures approx. 6" high x 15" across. (Thank you to Becky of TRP for this wonderful pattern!)

Fall Bath Towels

Harvest Blessing, Autumn Leaves, Crackling Fire, Family Time - words that bring warmth and comfort to your soul!

These are luxurious! What a way to start your day - wrapped up in a big and soft bath towel. These towels can be used all through the fall season. You'll love the hominess that adorn these fabulous towels. They measure an extra large 32 x 64. Set of 2.

Don't forget to sign up for our giveaway. Just click on the photo above and leave a comment.

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Americana 2

2011-11-11T16:35:00.003-05:00

For this weekend only, November 11-13, all prices reflect a 10% discount. Take advantage of this weekend to get your holiday shopping finished without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Keep your eyes open! We will be adding items throughout the weekend.

In honor of our Veterans, we are offering FREE SHIPPING on these purchases today, November 11th only.

"AmericA Home of the free...because of the brave" Pillow

Machine embroidered pillow which reads: AmericA Home of the free...because of the brave

How true is that statement? When we think about the country in which we live, this little pillow will remind us of exactly how our freedom was achieved - it was and is because of the brave men and women who give up and gave their lives in order that we can enjoy what we have in this country. Let us not take it for granted.

Machine embroidered muslin pillow measures 10" x 13". Verse is "framed" in with beautiful, full gathered muslin. Perfect for your Americana, Country, Colonial and Primitive decor.

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show - Americana

2011-11-11T05:04:00.005-05:00

For this weekend only, November 11-13, all prices reflect a 10% discount. Take advantage of this weekend to get your holiday shopping finished without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Keep your eyes open! We will be adding items throughout the weekend.

In honor of our Veterans, we are offering FREE SHIPPING on these purchases today only, November 11th.

Americana Eagle

Americana Eagle has an approximate 44" wing span!!! Draped in Betsy Ross style flag and waving the banner "In God We Trust". Wonderful for your Patriotic, Americana and Primitive decor. Eagle is made from muslin that has been stained, painted and primmed. Eyes are glass beads. Firmly stuffed with polyfil. Flag is stained and painted muslin. Banner is stained muslin and has "In God We Trust" transferred on front. Attached to the corners of the banner are rusty pins and bells.

Signed and dated making it one of a kind!

(Pattern designed by Ginger and Co.)

Americana Drum

Americana Drum is reminiscent of Civil War era. Drum is made using muslin that has been stained and painted and has been firmly stuffed with polyfil. Painted markings in blue and prim stain. Each blue section has an antiqued white painted star in center. Gold cord wraps around drum highlighting each section of the drum and is affixed with antiqued metal brads.

The top of the drum features wooden drum sticks painted blue and gold, an antiqued parchment Declaration of The Congress dated July 4, 1776, antiqued mounted aged parchment print of George Washington and a grungy flickering tea light. Spanish moss and sweet scented Sweet Annie complete the ensemble.

Piece measures 13 1/2" high x 16" at its widest point.

(Pattern designed by Ginger and Co.)

Don't forget to sign-up for our giveaway! Just click on the photo above and leave your comment!

Giveaway!!! NOW CLOSED - Thank you to all who entered!

2011-11-09T10:08:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I have had a giveaway! So, to get in the Spirit of the Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show, I thought I would have a giveaway as well. I will choose two winners the evening of November 13th. Each winner will receive a beautiful 2012 Primitive Calendar.

All you need to do is be a follower of my blog (new followers welcome) and leave a comment on this post. I will choose the winners using Random.org. (If you do not have a blog, please leave your email address in order that I can contact you. If no response within 72 hours, I will choose another winner. Open to U.S. residents only.)

Don't forget to mark your calendars!!! Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show begins in two days! There may be other surprises this weekend. Stop by often!

Will Be Here Before You Know It!

2011-11-08T04:44:00.000-05:00

This Friday begins our Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show!!! I know there will be lots and lots of great items for sale and some amazing giveaways! There's a list of all the vendors who are participating in the right side bar. Stop by and visit their blogs. Very creative and talented people. Mark your calendar!!! Starting Friday, November 11th and running through Sunday, November 13th.

Keep your eye on The Farmer's Attic blog. I hear they are having a giveaway as well!!! :)

I Was Featured!

2011-11-06T14:01:00.001-05:00

Was a little surprised to see that my Apple Crisp recipe was featured on Sew Many Ways!!! To visit Sew Many Ways, just click on the button above.

For the Apple Crisp recipe, click here.

Just look at these faces!!!

2011-11-01T06:54:00.000-04:00

Do you think they are having a great time wearing their costumes and trick or treating at Grandma & Grandpa's house?

A Room with a View

2011-10-30T08:12:00.000-04:00

Our first snowfall of the season! Isn't it beautiful? This is what I see when I look out my dining room doors. The sky is beautiful blue against the white trees and ground.

Another Treasury Giveaway from the OFG

2011-10-29T18:17:00.000-04:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team has been busy. We want two lucky winners to receive some amazing ornaments to grace their trees this Christmas! Click on the treasury title and enter to win!

Trim Your Tree with the OFG!!!

2011-10-29T06:51:00.000-04:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team is having an Etsy Treasury Giveaway!!! Click on the photo above and enter to win. (No comments on this post are eligible to win. Comments must be made on the treasury itself.)

Grab Your Tissues - Again!

2011-10-21T16:18:00.000-04:00

A Unique & Special Event

2011-10-18T07:22:00.001-04:00

Save the date! November 11-13 ORP is hosting an Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show. This unique event is sure to be one you don't want to miss. So many talented artists are lined up waiting to help you with your holiday gift giving. Below is a list of artisans who are participating in this event. This will be a blog event so you want to make sure you follow each and every one. Items are sure to change quickly and you don't want to miss a single thing.

The best part of having a show like this, you don't have to try to find a parking space, fight the crowded stores, or pick through what's leftover on the shelves. You can shop right from the comfort of your own home. Also, there are some participants who are having giveaways as well.

For all the followers, new and old, The Farmer's Attic will be having a giveaway that weekend to be announced on November 13th, 9 pm EST. There may be a few surprises along the way that weekend as well. Make sure you let your family, friends, followers of your blog, facebook friends, and twitter followers know about this fantastic Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show.

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

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!!!

Will Someone Please Pinch Me?

2011-10-14T10:27:00.002-04:00

I feel like I'm dreaming. I've been featured again this week. This time on the blog By Your Hands!!! Take a minute to visit Bette and Deena. They are a great team and their blog has some great features, tutorials, recipes and just about anything you need to organize or repurpose. Don't forget to become a follower. You really don't want to miss a single post!

Thank you Bette and Deena for featuring me this week. Words cannot express how grateful I am!

Speechless and Thankful!

2011-10-12T20:57:00.000-04:00

I was approached last week by the folks of Be@Home. They asked if they could feature my blog on their Best of the Web which is a weekly feature. My first instinct was, "who me?", then "is this for real?", then "it won't hurt to respond to their email!". So that's what I did! I responded to the email, not really sure if this was on the up-and-up and then I'd gotten a return response asking me for a couple of sentences telling a little about my blog along with a photo. I'd just gotten home and there was another email with a link back to their blog telling me I had indeed been featured!

You really need to check out their blog. It is truly a great place to go for ideas, inspiration and links to some really amazing sites.

Thank you to the folks of Be@Home for your feature. I am truly thankful!

Apple Crisp

2011-10-06T19:13:00.000-04:00

If I am given a choice of desserts and apples are one of the choices, I will choose apples every time. This has to be one of the best Apple Crisp recipes I have ever made and I've made it quite a few times. Tastes wonderful either cold with whipped cream or warm with Vanilla Ice Cream.

Ingredients:

4 large apples

2 tsp fresh lemon juice

3/4 cup packed brown sugar, divided

2 TBS Minute Tapioca

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 TBS butter, melted

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Peel, core and cut apples into 1/8" slices.

In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice, 1/4 cup brown sugar, tapioca, cinnamon and nutmeg. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to let juices begin to flow.

Spoon apple mixture into an ungreased 9" square baking dish, cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

While apples are baking, in a small bowl, combine flour with remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar. Mix completely. Add melted butter, work in thoroughly with fingers.

After pie has baked for 30 minutes, remove from oven. Sprinkle topping over apples and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes or until apples bubble and topping turns golden.

Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show

2011-10-02T09:56:00.000-04:00

I love a handmade Christmas!!! Don't you?

Mark you calendars. November 11-13, 2011, plan to join us for an Old Fashioned Christmas Craft Show. This will be an online show with many unique, wonderful and completely handmade items perfect for your Christmas gift giving or holiday decor.

If you would like to participate in the craft show, the more the merrier!!! You can just click on the button on the right side bar or email Kim at Old Road Primitives no later than October 15th.

On October 16th, I will be posting a list of all the participants so that you can visit each blog early and follow them so that you don't miss a single post. All sales will be made directly from each blog through PayPal. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can get one free by clicking here.

Weekend at Grandma & Grandpa's House

2011-09-25T14:48:00.001-04:00

Had a wonderful, beautiful weekend. Friday night the grandkids came over for a two-night visit while Mom & Dad had a much needed weekend away. This was the itinerary:

Friday night: Pizza at the local restaurant. Highlight: Being told by other patrons that when they saw us coming with kids they groaned. Then they told us they were so impressed with our grandchildren they just had to tell us they enjoyed their meal tremendously. (Could it be these children have been taught how to behave in a public setting, to be respectful of others around them, to enjoy the company of the ones they are with instead of wanting to move around and to speak in a proper tone instead of screaming to be heard?)

Saturday:

Taking them to the new Super WalMart. Highlight: Actually being able to walk around the store without chasing children AND walking through the toy department without having to buy them one toy. (Could it be that these children have been taught that it's okay to look and dream without having to have every want fulfilled immediately?)

Off to Nana's house for a quick visit. PopPop was working :( Highlight: They love their great-grandparents. (Could it be that these children are being taught the value of family and it's okay to just pop in for a few minutes just to say hi?)

Aunt Sue's for lunch. Four adults, four children and loads of fun. Highlight: Kids played well together while the adults had time to sit and chat. (Could it be that the children are being taught that there are times when the grown-ups would like to visit too?)

Back to Grandma & Grandpa's for dinner and a movie. Highlight: Sitting in the dark, eating popcorn and having the movie in surround sound a little louder than it should be making it feel like we were in a real movie theater. (Could it be that the children are being taught that you can have fun right there in your own living room?)

Sunday: Enjoying a big country breakfast together, having your granddaughter sing a song that you could pretend to cry at the beginning and then laugh with joy at the end, raking leaves outside with Grandpa and running through the house and screaming because Grandpa was playing the monster part. Highlight: Seeing the children's faces because they didn't want to go home even though they were happy to see Mom & Dad. (Could it be that the children have been allowed to bond with their grandparents and their grandparents aren't too busy to spend time with their grandchildren?)

Overall I would say the weekend was PRICELESS!!!

Spaghetti Squash

2011-09-22T09:29:00.000-04:00

There is an abundance of Spaghetti Squash at this time of year. Up until last year, I was intimidated by this (and most) squash. I stopped by an Amish farm stand and spoke with a wonderful mother and daughter about this produce. They explained to me how easy it was to cook and prepare. This was one of their favorite meals served with either a marinara or meat sauce.

I thought that if you are like me, you may have passed this up at your local farm stand or grocery store because you don't know how to prepare it either. So I decided to take pictures of how I made this squash. It really is easy!!!

First, you want to choose one that is blemish free. There is quite a bit of "spaghetti" inside so choose according to your family size. (The first time I made this, I had a fairly large squash and we were eating it for a few days.)

With a large, sharp knife, cut the squash in half lengthwise. As you can see, there are quite a few seeds inside. (Not sure if you can roast these like pumpkin seeds but I would think that they would be comparable.)

Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a large spoon. Make sure you leave the flesh of the squash intact.

Place squash, cut side down, in roasting pan. (I used a 9x13 glass baking pan.) You can add a little bit of water if you would like, but I found that this wasn't critical.

Cover tightly with foil. Bake in 350 degree oven for approximately 1 hour.

Squash is cooked when fork tender.

Allow to cool enough to handle. Place in large bowl and with fork begin scraping out the "spaghetti". Keep scraping until all strands are removed and you are left with an empty shell.

As you can see, you do wind up with quite a bit of spaghetti. This squash is somewhat bland but yet there is a hint of sweetness to it. You can serve this with a tomato based sauce if you'd like. Or, try some warmed olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper and Parmesan cheese. Makes a great main dish or side dish.

Enjoy!

Until Next Year :(

2011-09-12T13:27:00.001-04:00

Remember I was telling you about our ONE blueberry bush! Well, here's the last of this year's harvest - over 6 gallons of big, beautiful blueberries!!!

Most have gone into the freezer for muffins, cakes, ice cream, etc. so, if you have any good blueberry recipes, feel free to pass them on!!!

Beef Stew

2011-09-01T17:22:00.000-04:00

As the weather begins to cool, I start looking forward to those "comfort" foods we all enjoy. One of my favorites is beef stew that has slowed cooked in the crock pot. After an hour or so, the house begins to smell wonderful and I can't wait until the stew is finished and we can sit at the table with a bowl of hot stew and warm bread out of the oven.

Not being one who doesn't share, I thought that you might like to try this for yourself:

Beef Stew:

3 carrots, sliced
3 ribs celery, sliced
2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2" pieces
1 1/2 cups chopped onions
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 1/2 TBS Worcestershire sauce
3/4 tsp dried thyme leaves
3/4 tsp dried basil leaves
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 lbs lean beef stew meat, cut into 1" pieces
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (14 1/2 oz) reduced-sodium beef broth
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold water

Layer ingredients in slow cooker in the following order: carrots, celery, potatoes, onions, garlic, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, basil, pepper, beef, tomatoes with juice and broth. Cover and cook on LOW 8 to 9 hours.

Remove beef and vegetables to large serving bowl; cover and keep warm. Remove and discard bay leaf. Turn slow cooker to HIGH; cover. Mix flour and water in small bowl until smooth. Add 1/2 cup cooking liquid; mix well. Stir flour mixture into slow cooker. Cover and cook 15 minutes or until thickened. Pour sauce over beef and vegetables. Serve with your favorite crusty bread.

Enjoy!

White Bread

2011-08-27T20:39:00.000-04:00

I've tried many different white bread recipes over the years and this one has to be the BEST one yet!!!

Below is the recipe for the bread that Walter Sands made faithfully once a week for years. Walter was the father of Frank E. Sands, King Arthur Flour's current chairman of the board. Because of his arthritic hands, he used a bread bucket with a crank, which kneaded hundred of loaves of this fragrant bread with all its happy associations.

2 cups (16 ounces) warm water
2 tablespoons (7/8 ounce) sugar or honey (1 1/2 ounces)
1 scant tablespoon or packet active dry yeast
1/2 cup (2 ounces) dry milk powder or granules (1 1/4 ounces), optional
2 tablespoons (1 ounce) butter, softened, or vegetable oil (7/8 ounce)
6 cups (25 1/2 ounces) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
2 teaspoons salt

Pour the warm water into a mixing bowl. Add and let dissolve the sugar or honey and then the yeast. When the yeast is bubbling, add the dry milk, butter and 3 cups of flour and the salt. Mix together and then stir in a further 2 1/2 cups of flour. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup on the surface you intend to use for kneading.

Knead the dough for 3 to 4 minutes, until it begins to behave as if it belonged together. Let it rest while you clean and grease the bowl. Continue kneading a further 3 to 4 minutes, until the dough feels smooth and springy.

Let the dough rise until doubled (1 to 2 hours). Knock it down, knead out any stray bubbles, cut it in half and form two loaves. Place them in two lightly greased 4 1/2 x 8 1/2-inch bread pans. Let rise until almost doubled (45 minutes to 1 hour).

Preheat the oven for 15 minutes to 350°F. Bake the loaves 35 to 40 minutes, or until nicely browned. Remove bread from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Yield: 2 loaves.

This recipe reprinted from The Baking Sheet Newsletter, Vol. III, No. 6, July-August 1992 issue.

Fears Realized

2011-08-20T14:40:00.000-04:00

Had the best time this morning at the Quilted Crow Fabric and Quilt Shop!!! Peg was such a great encouragement to me today and she did it with a wonderful sense of humor. It was such a joy to laugh and joke around. Life is so serious sometimes and our trip to Peg's shop gave us a chance to leave our troubles outside.

Stop by and check out Peg's online store. Just click on the button above and check it out. Better yet, if you are ever in the Harpursville, NY area pop in and visit with Peg personally. Her shop is set inside a beautiful cabin and is filled to the brim with all sorts of primitive fabrics, kits, threads, wools, notions, etc. She has some gorgeous samples all around her shop which are a beautiful inspiration to all level of quilters.

Peg also has a beautiful blog!!! Stop on over and start following her today. She is one seriously talented lady and you don't want to miss a single post. (Peg let us in on a little secret! Shhhhhh don't tell anyone but she has a pattern that is going to be published in the Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine. That's all she would tell me. Couldn't even get a hint about what the pattern would look like!) Click here and visit Peg's blog today.

Speaking of Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine...if you are serious about your love of all things primitive, you want to subscribe to this awesome magazine. (I missed the debut issue. If anyone has one to sell, please let me know.) The content is amazing. Patterns are included for all projects. This is one serious magazine!!! Their customer service is top of the line. I subscribed to this magazine and in days my copy was in my mailbox!!!

Okay, speaking of fears realized! I have seen so many wool projects the past few years and have been totally intimidated by this medium. Don't ask me why, I'm not usually that shy to try my hand at something new. There are so many varieties. I think it's that I don't understand the lingo. When I went into the Quilted Crow Fabric and Quilt Shop today, I went with the intention that I was going to finally put aside my fears and tackle one of the beautiful wool projects in the Primitive Quilts and Projects magazine.

Well, when I entered the shop, I went directly to the wool corner that Peg has set up in her shop. I picked up some beautiful orange wool, turned it over in my hands and put it back on the shelf. I then picked up a gorgeous green wool, turned it over in my hands and put it back on the shelf. I closed my magazine, stepped back and told my friend Sue (my traveling partner, sister in Christ and one of my best friends) I couldn't do it. I was confused, intimidated and actually fearful to start. There I said it - I was afraid.

After spending some time discussing my fears with Peg and her explanation of the various types of wool she has in her shop, I broke down and bought some. I told Peg that I would blog about the process but wasn't promising anything!

Okay, so now that I've let you know even more about myself, I'm asking that you check on my progress every so often to see how I'm doing with my wool project (or if I've even gotten the nerve to get started!).

Turkey Trot Treasury Giveaway - Sign Up Today!

2011-08-14T06:39:00.001-04:00

Do you want to have a chance to win the entire collection of the Fall/Thanksgiving treasury you see above? If you do, you will need to click here to visit the treasury and sign up by commenting on the treasury!!! (You will need an Etsy account in order to enter. Registration is completely free!)

One lucky winner will be chosen at random on September 1st!!! All 16 items will be awarded the winner with the prize valued at over $250!

Watch out for the Turkey Trot!

2011-08-11T04:48:00.001-04:00

Here's a sneak peek at one of the 16 items included in The Old Farmhouse Gathering Turkey Trot giveaway. The giveaway is valued at approximately $250 and begins August 14th. Mark your calendars!!!

Needed a laugh today!

2011-08-02T07:42:00.000-04:00

How about you?

Barn Renovation - Days 2-8

2011-07-23T14:43:00.000-04:00

Well, the south side of the barn is finished!!! Took longer than my husband hoped for but in this blazing heat I'm not sure what more to have expected. I personally wouldn't have done anything but sit still. John, however, is one who will work outside in the 100 degree temps, sun blazing on him, 20 feet or so up on a ladder. I tried to convince him to let it go until it was a little cooler but well, you know how it is with men sometimes!!!

Here's a picture of one of the horizontal support beams that the boards are nailed to. As you can see it is a rough cut from the tree. Look closely and you can see the bark!

So glad this side is finished. It is certainly the hardest of the four sides. Next we will work on the North side, the second hardest side. What will make this side easier is that there is a loft on this side of the barn. Hopefully not as much up and down ladders!!!

Keep It Simple

2011-07-17T17:31:00.000-04:00

We Call Him The Bunny Whisperer

2011-07-12T00:00:00.002-04:00

We call my husband the Bunny Whisperer. He just has a way with them! This picture was taken from inside the house looking out onto our deck.

We've raised lots of bunnies over the past few years. We've even nursed wild ones back to health (that my husband accidentally hit with his tractor). He has even been in the middle of working outside and had wild rabbits run around him playing. They have no fear of him. That's why we call him The Bunny Whisperer. (I wonder if we can get a contract for a TV reality show!)

Barn Renovation - Day 1

2011-07-10T00:00:00.001-04:00

The weather yesterday was absolutely perfect to start our barn project. Temps were comfortable, no humidity and a beautiful breeze!!! With just my husband working on the barn (and me doing some grunt work), we accomplished about an 8 foot section on the south side. This is actually the more difficult side to do so it's good to have started there. Once this side is done, the rest should be a breeze. We know that this side will be the location of the attached greenhouse. The way my husband is designing the greenhouse, he will even be able to put a deck above. Looks a little high to me but from the inside of the barn and if the plans work out the way we think they will, the entrance to the deck will be from a 4th level within the barn.

Here's some pics from the work accomplished:

Just beginning to tear off an 8 foot section.

Working steadily!!!

View from inside the barn.

New wood waiting to go on!

John is very good about cleaning up as he goes along with all the projects he works on!

Makes it easier at day's end!

Section removed and ready to go!

Measuring the first board!

Marking the cutting line. (I spy a little yellow chick!)

Now let me stop here for a minute to update you on the pencil!!! This pencil has been in our family for more than 20 years. Most men would use a typical construction pencil or at the very least a #2. Working on our former house in New Jersey and having two small children, pencils were not always easy to come by so you made do with whatever you could get your hands on. This pencil became my husband's favorite marking pencil. Not only does he use it to mark what needs cutting, he also likes to tease the dog with it. She has even gone so far as to steal the pencil on various occasions. Here she is trying to retrieve what she believes belongs to her:

Maggie and "her" pencil!

Almost finished!!!

Now in case you are thinking that I did nothing but take pictures all day, I need to tell you that I was the one who carried the old wood away, took out all the rusty nails and stacked the wood in piles. I also made sure that John had lots and lots of cold water. Oh, and I helped put the nails in using the nail gun!!! I actually put the first new nail in:

Not the best nail placement but hey it was my first time (not to mention it scared me when it shot in there)!

Hope I haven't bored you to tears but we are excited!

Barn Renovation

2011-07-09T07:14:00.001-04:00

Our barn is probably close to 100 years old and is in need of some TLC. Last year we had a new roof put on our barn and this year my husband is going to tear the exterior wood down and put up new board and batten siding. We both tend to agree that we'd like to convert the barn into living space and we sort of have an idea how we'd like to do that, but as with any huge renovation (and we've done plenty), there are so many variables to take into consideration. We've gone 'round and 'round about finishing with windows, doors, plumbing, decks and even an attached greenhouse/sunroom but some best laid plans are worked out as you go along.

Here are some before pictures I took early this morning:

South Side

West Side

(I spy a ~~red~~ orange tractor!
My husband informed me the tractor isn't red but orange.
Goes to show what I know!!!)

North Side

East Side

If you have any links to converted barns, please pass them along. We'd love to see what others have done and perhaps they would help with some ideas or suggestions.

Will keep you updated on our progress as we go along.

Strawberry Shortcake

2011-07-06T05:57:00.000-04:00

Just for fun, I submitted my Strawberry Shortcake recipe to Create & Decorate. Going through my emails this morning, I see that they chose the winner randomly among all the submissions. I figured I'd pop over real quick to check out the winner and see their strawberry recipe. What I didn't figure on or expect was that I won!!! I won a year's subscription to the Create & Decorate magazine!!! How exciting is that?!?

Here's my favorite strawberry recipe:

Strawberry Shortcake

Ingredients:

4 cups sliced fresh strawberries

1/4 cup sugar

Vegetable cooking spray

1/4 cup margarine, softened

1/3 cup sugar

1 large egg, separated

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup skim milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg white

2 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 cups thawed, reduced-calorie frozen whipped topping

Garnish: Strawberry fan

Combine strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar; cover and refrigerate 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Coat a 9-inch round cakepan with vegetable cooking spray; dust with flour, and set prepared pan aside.
Beat margarine at medium speed with an electric mixer until soft, gradually add 1/3 cup sugar, beating well. Add egg yolk, beating just until blended. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl; add dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add 2 tablespoons sugar, one at a time, beating until stiff peaks form. Stir about 1/2 cup beaten egg whites into batter; fold in remaining egg whites. Spoon batter into prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until a wood pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in pan on a wire rack 10 minutes. Remove cake from pan; let cool completely on a wire rack.
Slice shortcake in half horizontally. Place bottom half, cut side up, on a serving plate. Drain strawberries, reserving juice, and drizzle half of juice over bottom layer. Set aside 1 tablespoon whipped topping, spread 3/4 cup whipped topping over cake layer, and arrange half of strawberries over topping. Top with remaining cake layer, cut side down, and repeat procedure. Dollop with reserved 1 tablespoon whipped topping; garnish with strawberry fan.

I hope you try this recipe. I've been making this for years and it is always a hit!!!

Hydrangea

2011-07-05T00:00:00.004-04:00

Did you know that depending on your soil conditions, Hydrangea flowers will be either blue or pink? Apparently we have a higher acidic soil, therefore our blooms are blue.

I think I'll try to dry these this year but I need to wait until the blooms are a little older before I cut them in order for them to dry properly. I've seen dryed arrangements in photos and they look stunning!

A Day at the Zoo

2011-07-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

The most important thing in my life is my family!!! Especially now as a grandmother I realize that more and more. As I was raising my children there were so many responsibilities, or so it seemed, that were so important I had no time to enjoy my children as much as I should have. Now that I have grandchildren, I realize now that my children were my ultimate responsibility; not dishes, laundry, cleaning, friends that come and go or anything else that could have taken a back burner!!!

Grandpa and I took the grandkids to the zoo the other day. Just look at these precious faces!!!

How can anything take priority over the children? Such joy!

The older I get, the more the following speaks to me:

One Hundred Years from now (excerpt from "Within My Power" by Forest Witcraft)

One Hundred Years from now
It will not matter
what kind of car I drove,
What kind of house I lived in,
how much money was in my bank account
nor what my clothes looked like.
But the world may be a better place because
I was important in the life of a child.

Take time today to enjoy the gift of your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren!!! The dishes can wait. The job doesn't matter when you open your front door. Friends we think we'll have for a lifetime will probably no longer be around. The laundry and the dust never stops accumulating so what's another day?!? Time is short and each day is precious. You can never get back yesterday but you can make a memory that will last a lifetime. Take advantage of every moment God has given you in the gifts He has given you in your children.

These children, my grandchildren, are my heartbeat. In the words of my father-in-law, "they make my heart go pitter, patter"!

Watermelon Sorbetto Granita

2011-07-03T11:15:00.000-04:00

Watermelon in our area is coming into season and you can buy rather large seedless watermelon relatively cheap. My market had them BOGO (buy one get one) free!!! How can you pass up a buy like that? BUT, for two people that's a lot of watermelon, soooooo what does one do? Make sorbet of course :)

Watermelon Sorbet

6 cups watermelon, cut into small chunks
Zest of 1 lime
1 TBS lime juice
1/4 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup light corn syrup

In your food processor or blender, puree watermelon until smooth. (Although I do like small pieces of watermelon in mine so I don't process completely.)

In large saucepan, add 1 cup watermelon puree, lime zest, lime juice and sugar. Cook over low medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. Add pinch of salt, rest of watermelon puree and corn syrup. Whisk until blended.

Pour mixture into freezer safe 9x9 pan. (I used a round metal cake pan.) Carefully place in freezer. Wait 1 hour, remove mixture and with a fork begin to rake through the frozen sorbet. Return to freezer. Repeat every hour or so until mixture is nice and icy.

Perfect for a hot summer day!!! Enjoy!

FALLing For You!

2011-07-02T06:42:00.000-04:00

Click on the individual thumbnails below to see some really talented artists at the Old Farmhouse Gathering.

To see all the items listed for the Fall Fun at the Farmhouse, click here!

Fall Fun at the Farmhouse!!!

2011-06-30T18:58:00.000-04:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team on Etsy will start it's Fall Celebration tomorrow and run through July 23rd. There are some really talented people on this team and I am really proud to be a part of such a fine group of artisans.

Below is a sneak peak at what I have included in the celebration. Click on the photo below and start your fall shopping today!

I Was Invited...

2011-06-25T00:00:00.000-04:00

...to link my Vanilla Ice Cream recipe on Sweet as Sugar Cookies blog. There are so many wonderful Sweet Treats for Saturday, I don't know which one I want to make first. Click on the photo below if you want to make any one of the fabulous desserts that have been posted.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

2011-06-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

Sweet and Sour Chicken

2 cups instant brown rice
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons apricot preserves
2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons finely grated or minced ginger
1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
6 cups vegetables, broccoli, red and/or green bell peppers, snow peas
1 5-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained
Whisk vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch and apricot preserves in a small bowl. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 2 minutes. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink, about 2 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. Keep warm.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring, 20 to 30 seconds. Add broth and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Add vegetables, reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Stir in water chestnuts and the chicken. Whisk the reserved sauce and add to the pan. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is heated through, about 1 minute. Serve with favorite cooked rice.

Not Sure What These Are Called But They Sure Are Pretty!

2011-06-23T00:00:00.001-04:00

This is a photo of a hanging basket my mom has hanging in the front of her house. It is absolutely gorgeous!!! There's one problem though. We don't know what the name of these flowers are called and the best way to care for them. I wish that florists would make sure they include a tag and instructions with their plants. Makes it a whole lot easier.

Do you know what they are??? Click on the photos for a larger view.

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

2011-06-22T00:00:00.001-04:00

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

2 cups heavy cream

2 cups whole milk

3/4 cups sugar

2 tsp vanilla

Pinch salt

Whisk all ingredients together until sugar dissolves. Pour into the bowl of your ice cream maker. Freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. Transfer to freezer container. Allow to cure for at least one hour. Serve over warmed Blueberry Cobbler (see yesterday's post) or garnish with favorite toppings!!!

Blueberry Cobbler & Homemade Ice Cream or is that Homemade Ice Cream & Blueberry Cobbler?

2011-06-21T00:00:00.011-04:00

Berry Cobbler

3 cups flour
1/4 tsp salt
2 1/2 Tbsp baking powder
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
1 cups heavy cream
4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup brown sugar

Topping

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
4 Tbsp. butter at room temperature

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease a 9" ×13″ baking dish and set aside.

Toss the blueberries with the 1/2 cup of brown sugar and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Set aside.

Cut butter into approximately 1 tsp size pieces. Cut into flour mixture using either a pastry blender or two butter knives until crumbly.

Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then lightly toss them with the flour mixture until combined.

Add in the cream and mix until combined. Batter will be sticky.

Lightly press about 1 1/2 cups of the dough mixture into the bottom of 9" x 13" baking dish. Spread blueberry mixture over the dough. Drop by large spoonfuls the remaining dough on top of the berries.

Combine sugar, flour and cinnamon for the topping. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over dough. Bake 45 - 55 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Best served warm with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream (will post recipe tomorrow). Refrigerate leftover cobbler (that is if you have some left over!!!) My husband had a piece last night cold out of the fridge and liked the cobbler that way as well. Not me, warm with ice cream is the only way to go!!!

We Love A Good Party!

2011-06-20T00:00:00.004-04:00

June in our family is a party month! My son-in-law's birthday and my two grandchildren celebrate their birthdays in June. This year the grandkids had their family birthday party combined. My grandson turned 2 on the 15th and my granddaughter turns 6 on the 28th. With everyone so busy, it was easier on my daughter and son-in-law to combine their party. For now, at their ages, they are okay with it. They had fun handing each other their gifts and watching each other open them. (Truth be told, we adults enjoy it just as much I think.)

The cake was a hit! That was a combined cake too. The bakery did a great job with Dora and Diego decorating the cake. It worked out perfect since my granddaughter likes Dora and my grandson likes Diego :)

Peonies

2011-06-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Peonies are truly one of my favorite flowers. The plants can grow very large and the blooms are just gorgeous. It seems that every year the flowers are more beautiful than they were the year before. It also seems that just as they begin to open we have a huge wind and rain storm which knocks that heavy blossoms down. (I tell myself that I will remember next year to stake the plant and every year it's the same thing - I forget!!!)

Single large open blossom.

Peonies growing among the Hostas.

Makes a striking arrangement!

Peonies are a great flower for cutting

and makes a beautiful centerpiece.

Peonies come in a variety of colors.

Try growing some in your flower garden.
Can be grown in most any state in the US!

To Market, To Market!!!

2011-06-12T05:42:00.002-04:00

See you tomorrow :)

Blueberry Ice Cream

2011-06-11T00:00:00.005-04:00

Blueberry Ice Cream

Ingredients:

1/4 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1 TBS lemon juice
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
2 cups half -n- half (you can use heavy cream for a richer ice cream)

Dissolve sugar in 1/4 cup water in medium saucepan over low heat. When sugar is dissolved, add blueberries, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until berries begin to burst.

Remove from heat. You can mash the berries if you want, but I don't.

Allow to cool to room temperature. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator.

Once berries have chilled completely, add half -n- half. Combine thoroughly. Pour into your favorite ice cream maker following the manufacturers directions.

If you like a soft ice cream, serve immediately. Or, allow to freeze for an hour or so to firm up a little.

Makes approximately 1 quart.

Enjoy

Getting Ready!

2011-06-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

The blue birdhouse mounted on our shed was given to us about 15 years ago by dear neighbors of ours; Jim & Delsie. They have since passed away but are always remembered for their love for people and nature. They were wonderful examples to us and we miss them dearly.

Every year we have to laugh at the Starlings who attempt to squeeze their fat little bodies in the tiny hole. Needless to say (and very thankful at that) they are unable to nest in that box.

A few years ago a Robin decided to build her nest ON TOP of the birdhouse. For two years, we had Eastern Bluebirds raise families in the house. They were fantastic parents, weren't shy around us at all and we were able to experience every one of their babies fledge.

(Public domain photo)

This year we have a family of Song Sparrows who decided to take up residence. They too are wonderful parents flitting back and forth feeding their little ones who are themselves about ready to leave the nest. These little sparrows aren't shy either. Just this morning as I was having coffee, sitting on my porch swing and working on a Ladies Bible Study I will be teaching in a couple of weeks, the male decided to sit on the deck with me as well (I could almost reach out and pet him).

The picture only shows two little ones peeking their heads out when in fact there are three. I've tried to get a picture of all three but they just won't let me.

Here's a couple of pictures with the parents feeding the babes:

I venture to say that the little ones are getting ready to leave the nest any day. They keep venturing out a little further each time I see them.

(Click on each photo to get a closer look.)

Grab Your Tissues

2011-06-09T00:00:00.006-04:00

No one knows the hardships of people. We pass so many people on the streets, in the stores, in our communities, in our workplace and even in our own families. We cannot ever know the depth of the hurts of others nor the challenges that people face whether it be physical or emotional. People all around the world have needs that we may never hear about.

Here's a young man in Korea who has lived a very tough life from the age of three. Take a few minutes to view the following video to hear a very small portion of his life story. I can't even begin to imagine what he has truly had to endure. WARNING: You want to grab your tissues. There wasn't a dry eye in the house and there won't be one in yours either.

Blueberries - Yummy!!!

2011-06-08T00:00:00.004-04:00

When we bought our house 21 years ago, there was only one Blueberry Bush already on the property. It was probably about 10 years old or older at the time. It was sickly and spindly, had so much woody stems and no growth. We might have gotten less than a couple of blueberries, if the birds didn't get to them first that is!

Over the years, I have pruned and pruned and pruned. Even though I would read that you need to have more than one bush in order for good pollination to occur, we just never did get around to planting any other bushes (until last year and it is still very small).

For the past two years, this bush has produced an abundance of blueberries; big, beautiful, tender, sweet blueberries. Last year, I actually froze 4 gallons of blueberries!!!

This year, the bush is so heavily laden with fruit, I'm pretty sure there will be even more than 4 gallons! Yay!!! If you click on the photo, you can see how large the fruit is already and they still have about a month before harvest.

I'm thinking muffins, pies, cheesecake and an amazing BLUEBERRY ICE CREAM!!!! I'll have to post that recipe soon!

In order to keep the birds from eating all the blueberries, we cover the bush with netting. We started to do that yesterday but for some reason couldn't find the netting. And it started to get pretty windy and that stuff can be a bugger to work with. So my husband has the stakes in the ground and all he needs to do is scout out the netting so we get that covered this week.

We did have supervisors while we were working outside yesterday afternoon!!! Take a look at who thinks they are in charge :)

This is Lucky Boy!!! He's probably about 10 years old now and loves to have a run around the Blueberry Bush after we have the netting around it. He's so funny! We inherited him from my nieces before they moved to Florida. He lives year round outside and loves it!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh, and he loves lovin'! Just start scratching his face and ears and you've made a friend for life. I think he was probably disappointed that the blueberries aren't protected yet. Patience Lucky, patience!

Why is it that some dogs do not like looking at the camera? Do you think they know that they are having their picture taken and are a little camera shy? This is Maggie! Maggie is 11 years old and is part Australian Shepherd. She is certainly the smartest dog I have ever been around. She actually taught herself to bring me my slippers! I never even thought about teaching any dog how to do that, but she felt that was something she needed to do.

Maggie LOVES to garden. I will be pruning dead limbs, pulling weeds, whatever - and she has her nose right in my hand pulling everything out of my hands and throwing it on the ground wherever she wants. (I don't have the heart to tell her that I actually have to clean up the yard twice when she HELPS!) We have even had her carry large tree limbs for us! She really is a hard worker and loves to please. Hey, everyone has to earn their keep around here.

If anyone has any favorite blueberry recipes, would love to have you pass them on. Maybe we can even get a Blueberry Cookbook together. Now, that sounds like a good idea!!!

Vote For Freedom

2011-06-07T00:00:00.002-04:00

Vote for Freedom!!! Head over to the Old Farmhouse Gathering blog and cast your vote for your favorite Flag Day Appreciation entry.

Americana Eagle wit... farmersattic $104.99	Flag Basket Round H... basketsbyrose $30.00	Americana Patriotic... firecrackerkid $12.50
I Pledge Allegiance... SugarMtnMercan... $18.95	Country Prairie Dol... catsdesigns $19.95	Primitive American ... happyvalleypri... $79.95
Grand Olde Flag barbsheartstro... $15.00	Freedom...Something... PaintspotsnSpl... $13.95	Americana Sheep Doo... YorkiesPrimiti... $39.99
Extreme Primitive A... cavecreekprimi... $16.95	STAR FLAG Handpaint... oldetimegather... $8.49	3 Primitive Baked P... VicSews $9.99
Primitive Grungy Am... swampwaterprim... $13.00	Primitive Needle Pu... thetalkingcrow $50.00	Primitive flag orni... ThatSallie $5.95
Primitive Cat God ... cedarcreekprim... $12.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Do You Have A Favorite?

2011-06-06T00:00:00.002-04:00

When I'd first gotten married (almost 32 years ago), my husband and I (mostly me) were asked what it was we'd like to collect for our home. Neither one of us had to spend too much time thinking about it - we already knew what we liked. So for the past 32 years we have been collecting pigs. If you stepped inside our home and spent any time with us, it would soon become evident that that is what we have all around our home. I've lost count now but at one point we had over 200 pigs in various forms - from cloth to ceramic to brass to resin and most any other form that's out there. We have mugs, creamers, banks, plates, salt and pepper shakers, napkin holders, butter dishes, serving trays and more. We have pigs in ballerina tutus, pigs in gondolas, sleeping pigs, pigs rolling on their backs and even a pig with a broken foot. Have you ever heard of the game Pig Mania? We have that too! We have white pigs, black pigs, brown pigs and of course pink pigs.

Most of the pigs we've collected over the years were gifts to us for various events; birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas. We have pigs that we've retired because they've become fragile over time. Even though my decorating style and colors have changed over the years, we have never lost our love for pigs. In fact, whenever we visit the local fairs in the summer, I tend to want to spend the most time with the pigs. I'm fascinated by their prickly hair, their thick skin, curly tail and their wet, curious snouts. In fact, we even owned a Pot Belly pig at one time. Boy, I could tell you stories about that time in our lives :) All I will say about that period in our lives is "Duh, what were we thinking?!?" We weren't even living in PA at the time. We were living in a city in Northern New Jersey (in fact we lived 11 miles outside of New York City)! We did own our home here in PA and would travel in our Ford Escort wagon with our two kids, dog and pig for long weekends! Made for a very interesting 2 1/2 hour ride.

Okay, you know a little more about me. What about you? Is there a favorite collectible you have in your home?

Handmade Blog Party Sunday

2011-06-05T06:23:00.003-04:00

Click on the photo above and show off what you are making for yourself, for others or for sale!!!

Let the voting begin!

2011-06-04T06:41:00.001-04:00

Please take a minute and head over to The Old Farmhouse Gathering Team blog and cast your vote! The team has worked hard on their entries and would love for you to choose your favorite. The winner of the most votes will receive a wonderful prize AND there will be a winner chosen randomly from all those who leave a comment on June 12th.

Click on the photo above and cast your vote today!

Flag Day Appreciation Challenge

2011-06-03T00:00:00.002-04:00

The Old Farmhouse Gathering team is having a

Flag Day Appreciation Challenge!!!

Mark your calendars! Beginning tomorrow, June 4th through Saturday, June 11th, you will have an opportunity to vote on your favorite Flag Day item. Would love it if you would stop by on the 4th, take a look at all the entries and VOTE!

There are twelve Old Farmhouse Gathering team members that have entered the Flag Day Appreciation Challenge!!! You will have a tough time choosing who to vote for.

Here's an early look at what I'm entering in the Challenge:

Makes Me Think of ...

2011-06-02T00:00:00.004-04:00

Family, barbeques, baseball games, fireworks, Independence and Freedom! (For ordering info, please click the photo above.)

Happy Birthday!!!

2011-06-01T12:20:00.000-04:00

To our wonderful son-in-law Don!!! You are a blessing in our lives and we love you very much! Enjoy your day!

This Is How I Feel :)

2011-06-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

Every season has it's own uniqueness and beauty, but I must admit I do have my favorites and this is not one of them. I know it's not "officially" summer yet, but it sure does feel like it.

To make me feel better, I visited my local quilt shop and purchased some fall and winter fabrics. Didn't make me feel cooler but it sure made my day!

Soldier's Journal

2011-05-31T00:00:00.001-04:00

I love this piece!!! Reproduction Soldier's Journal is the perfect piece to include with your Early Settler, Colonial, Primitive decor.

(For ordering information, please click on the photo above.)

Take Time To Remember

2011-05-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

The Memorial Day weekend has increasingly become a "holiday" where we shop for some great sales, get ready for summer with barbeques, beaches, fireworks or just relax having three days off from our grueling work week.

The original intention for Memorial Day was first enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War. It was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Take some time today to remember our service men and women, past and present. So many have given there lives for our freedom and so many are faced with danger every day for our continued liberty. We praise them and pray for them!!!

Red & White Swap

2011-05-29T00:00:00.001-04:00

Red and white seems to be my new favorite colors!!! So - how could I not join in the fun Red & White fabric swap at Sew Many Ways!!! I have my 125 - 5" squares all cut and ready to go in the mail. Can't wait to see what fabrics I get in return. What to do, what to do? Any suggestions?

Stop and visit Karen's Sew Many Ways blog. She is quite a talented lady. Just click here.

Banana Blueberry Quick Bread

2011-05-28T00:00:00.011-04:00

This quick bread is so easy to make and oh so good :)

Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh blueberries or 3/4 cup frozen blueberries thawed
2 TBS + 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 cup mashed ripened bananas

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, dredge blueberries in 2 tablespoons flour. Gently stir blueberries together with oats, nuts, 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream shortening. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in mashed banana. Add blueberry mixture to creamed mixture, and stir just until moistened. Spoon batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center of the loaf. Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Remove from pan, and cool completely on a wire rack.

Yield: 1 loaf/12 servings

American Beauty

2011-05-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

A special thank you to Vintage Polka Dotcom for putting together this true American Beauty treasury!!!

BEN FRANKLIN Tie Ta... FunckyTieTac $9.00	Declaration of Inde... nonfictiontees $18.00	liberty bell cast b... ionesAttic $22.00
Born in the USA, Ca... StuffDepot $1.50	Statue of Liberty NYCZomp $15.00	Revolutionary War (... popsflags $110.00
The Declaration of ... workbox $9.00	George Washington- ... heartworksbylo... $40.00	Why Can't We Be... alliterationz $10.00
LIBERTY Patriotic H... LazyCaterpilla... $12.00	Love Americana Bird... mulberrylanefo... $19.95	Silver. Aluminum. W... karalmava $29.00
Little Miss FireCra... AudryAndUlric $14.00	Vintage Rustic Tin ... uglysanta $30.00	Red white and blue ... JLPerillo $22.00
Americana Drum farmersattic $69.99

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

New Arrival

2011-05-25T17:18:00.000-04:00

I just completed the Americana Drum I've been working on for a while. For more information, check it out at The Farmer's Attic. Just click on the photo above and take a look.

Chicken In A Nest

2011-05-24T18:45:00.000-04:00

No - Not chicken ON a nest!!!

Chicken In A Nest

Ingredients:

Dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 tsp Dijon country-style mustard
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 TBS finely chopped parsley

To make dressing: In small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Chill.

Salad:

8 oz skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 1/2 tsp each paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning

4 tortillas, crisped to form shells (see instructions below)

2 cups baby spinach leaves

2 cups baby Romaine lettuce leaves

2 cups finely sliced red cabbage

1 cup grape tomatoes

1/2 cup julienne sliced radishes

1/2 cup sliced green onions

To make salad: Preheat broiler. Combine seasonings and sprinkle half over one side of chicken breasts.

Broil 6 minutes. Turn chicken and sprinkle with remaining seasoning. Broil 6 to 8 minutes or until juice runs clear when pricked with skewer. Let cool to room temperature.

To make tortilla shells: Place each tortilla in a small oven-proof bowl. Place a smaller bowl inside to mold tortilla. Bake at 350 degrees F about 10 minutes or until crisp. Set aside to cool.

When tortilla shells are cool, it's time to assemble your salad. Place tortilla shell on serving plate.

Line tortilla shells with spinach and lettuce leaves. Top with red cabbage. Slice chicken and divide equally over cabbage.

Decorate with tomatoes, radishes and green onion. Serve dressing separately. ~ Makes 4 servings.

This is an excellent salad. The dressing is out of this world!!! When my girls were younger and living at home, I had to triple the dressing recipe.

Enjoy!

Chocolate Caramel Frappe

2011-05-23T12:38:00.000-04:00

I mentioned in yesterday's post that I have "perfected" my own version of a Chocolate Caramel Frappe. I thought that I'd share my recipe with you just in case anyone wanted to try their own. This recipe is made using the Mr. Coffee Frappe maker but I'm sure you can modify it for your blender.

In the blender, I add about 12 - 14 ice cubes and crush them slightly before adding ingredients or brewing the coffee. Over the ice, pour 1/4 cup milk (I use Fat Free), 2 TBS sugar (I use non-sugar sweetener) and 3 TBS Chocolate Syrup (I use sugar free).

In the coffee maker, I use three tablespoons Starbuck's Caramel Coffee and 1/2 cup water. Set your machine to "Frappe" and let it do it's thing! (If you are using a blender, I would use strong brewed coffee and add that to your blender mix and then give it a whirl.)

As you can see, it is now a nice semi-frozen consistency. Before pouring in your favorite mug, squirt about a tablespoon or more (to taste) in the bottom of your mug. Add your frappe. Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel and chocolate syrup. Pop in a straw (the larger ones like they have at the fast food restaurants are better than the smaller ones).

Enjoy!!!

This recipe makes two servings and if I have to "drink alone", I will prepare the second serving in my mug and freeze for another day. It can take quite some time to start thawing enough to drink it so you need to take it out about 1/2 hour before you indulge.

WARNING: These can be habit forming!

Do you think there's something strange about this?

2011-05-22T16:26:00.001-04:00

I'm pretty sure most of us have lots of different mugs in our cupboards. These are just a few that are used regularly in my house. What I'm wondering is - do you have a favorite mug that is used just for a favorite beverage? I do! And I'm beginning to think that this might be a strange habit. Let me show you what I'm talking about:

This mug here is my morning coffee mug. That's all I drink out of that mug at home in the morning. I own a few of these in case I have company in the morning for coffee. However, if I have company over for breakfast, I will serve coffee in a smaller coffee cup, which could be a plain white Corelle cup or a fancier floral cup and saucer. It depends on what I'm serving for breakfast or what dishes I'm using.

Do you see where I'm going with this yet? No? Let me continue!

This mug is the mug I usually give my husband to have when he's not working so that we can have coffee together. I only have a couple of these and I usually reserve them for him. I do not give him coffee usually in the first mug I pictured above because I'm partial to those myself and I think I might be selfish. Is this odd?

The mug shown below with the Rooster on it is reserved for tea. Tea for me or tea with friends. These mugs have never held anything in them but tea. I especially enjoy tea on a chillier evening. I very rarely drink tea during the day and I never drink tea in my coffee mug!!!

I'm really starting to wonder if I'm a little strange.

Now for my last mug (which really isn't the only mug left that I have - I had my special mug that I drank coffee in at work, I have mugs that my grandchildren use for tea or hot chocolate, and I have special hot chocolate mugs that I use and there are others as well). Okay I digress thinking about the mugs that I own.

This mug is a favorite for my Frappe's!!! My daughter and son-in-law gave me a Mr. Coffee Frappe machine that is wonderful. I love Micky D's Caramel Frappes but after learning how many calories and how much fat is in one medium frappe, I had to quit. But since I received my own maker as a gift, I have tweaked my own Chocolate Caramel Frappe which I only serve in the clear glass mug.

What started me thinking about whether or not this behavior regarding my mugs is strange was yesterday. My daughter and grandchildren spent a few hours here and it was very warm. We decided that it would be a good day to enjoy a Chocolate Caramel Frappe. The first time I made one for my daughter she commented that she thought mine tasted better than the Caramel Frappe at Micky D's. Yesterday she said again that she thought they tasted better but she also said that the mug I used was the perfect mug for it and maybe that was why. (Is she displaying the same strange behavior that I am? No matter, they are still delish!!!)

I go back to my original question: Do you think there's something strange about this? Do you have favorite mugs that you use only for your favorite beverages OR am I the only one out there that does this?!?

(After I read this to my husband, he laughed and said "Oh, that's why you give me coffee in this mug and you use the other one". - After 32 years of marriage, we still don't know EVERYTHING about each other!!!)

Laundry Detergent

2011-05-20T10:44:00.000-04:00

I've been making my own laundry detergent for almost a year now. I have saved a fortune, our clothes are cleaner and there is no risk for allergic reactions because of perfumes, dyes or chemicals. These detergents will not suds the same as store bought detergents which is what we are used to seeing and think that it must clean better because it's sudsy. These detergents, I believe, actually clean as well if not better than store bought. I thought you might like to try some for yourself:

Powdered Laundry Detergent

1 cup grated Fels-Naptha Soap
1/2 cup of Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (not baking soda)
1/2 cup of 20 Mule Team Borax

Mix all ingredients together. Put in a decorative glass container. For a light load or lightly soiled load, all you need to use is 1 Tablespoon. For heavy loads or heavily soiled loads, use 2 Tablespoons.

If you would like to use other bar soaps, such as beauty bars or deodorant bars, you can substitute for Fels-Naptha.

Liquid Laundry Detergent

3 pints water
1/3 bar of grated Fels-Naptha Soap

1/2 cup of Arm & Hammer Washing Soda (not baking soda)

1/2 cup of 20 Mule Team Borax

1 quart hot water

2 gallon bucket

In a saucepan, add 3 pints of water and grated soap. On low heat, stir soap until dissolved. Stir in washing soda and borax. Stir until thickened. Remove from heat and add 1 quart of hot water. In 2 gallon bucket filled with hot water, add soap mixture and mix well. Allow mixture to sit and thicken for 24 hours. You can store this in empty gallon milk or water cartons, large glass jars or double the batch and store in larger spackle buckets.

I have found that the liquid does tend to separate and has even cooled to a "gel" consistency. All you need to do is shake the contents to mix before using. Use 1/2 cup per load of laundry.

Mission Accomplished

2011-05-19T05:10:00.000-04:00

You may remember that my daughter was recently involved in Mercy Ships in Sierra Leone, Africa. We picked her up on Saturday, spent a few days with family and she is now back safe and sound in her home in North Carolina. Thank you all for praying for her. I'm sorry that I have not been able to share much with you all, she had requested that I do not share anything on the blog. I would love to have you all come to my house so that I could show you the photo DVD she made. Since that's not feasible, click on the photo above to see how you can be a part of Mercy Ships.

Orphan

2011-05-10T12:40:00.000-04:00

This little woodchuck let me walk right up to it to take a picture. The mother was hit and killed on the highway by our house. I wonder what the survival rate is for an orphaned woodchuck? Does anyone know?

What fun!!!

2011-05-07T13:29:00.000-04:00

I participated in a Dishcloth Swap in order to encourage everyone to enjoy the joy of washing dishes. My swap partner is Linda from Grend Bend, Kansas. She is new to knitting but you would never know it!!! She did a great job on my dishcloth. And look at the goody she sent along with the dishcloth!!! I'm thinking about tea and toast with my Apricot Jam.

Thanks Linda!!!

Nurse's Day

2011-05-06T05:19:00.000-04:00

Happy Nurse's Day to my beautiful daughters!!! What a joy it was to see my girls together and a blessing to have one daughter pin the other. Both are RN's, both are making a difference in people's lives, both love the Lord and both are loved very much by their families!!!

Thank you to all the nurses who give all to help those in need. It is a selfless act of love to care for others. You all deserve to be honored!!!

There's Still Time...

2011-05-02T07:32:00.000-04:00

...to sign up for the Old Farmhouse Gathering's 4th Annual Sweet Summertime Hugs Giveaway!!! There will be one lucky winner drawn on May 28th!

A Sad Day

2011-04-29T20:25:00.001-04:00

Many of you may remember my post from April 7th. I shared a free pattern from Donna at Brynwood Needleworks. Donna had a little Corgi pup named Fezzik who went in for surgery yesterday. Today from complications following the surgery, little Fezzik died. He died in Donna's arms. Each Friday, Fezzik had a post where he shared his antics, discoveries, and even included a couple of videos of him swimming in their pool. Little Fezzik was only 45 weeks old and for a little guy he was a giant in the eyes of those who loved him. He will be greatly missed.

Please pray for Donna and Handsome as they mourn for their little Corgi. Their hearts are broken and need time to heal.

Stop by and visit Donna by clicking here. Take a minute to let her know that you are praying for them. I know that she will appreciate it very much.

Waterlogged

2011-04-28T05:30:00.000-04:00

wa·ter·logged

[waw-ter-lawgd, -logd, wot-er-]

–adjective

1. so filled or flooded with water as to be heavy or unmanageable, as a ship.

2. excessively saturated with or as if with water: waterlogged ground; waterlogged with fatigue.

That's how it is around here. Lots and lots of rain. You can't walk on the lawns. Ditches and roads being washed away. Fire alarms going off like crazy too! With all this rain, I'm hoping for some beautiful May flowers (that's if they don't drown first)!

Stay safe!!!

4th Annual Sweet Summertime Hugs Giveaway at The Old Farmhouse Gathering

2011-04-17T05:07:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I gave you a sneak peek at what I was including in the giveaway, today I give you something sweet ! The 4th Annual Sweet Summertime Hugs Giveaway that is!!!

Click on the Sweet Summertime Hugs Giveaway button to your right and sign up today. Good luck!!!

Something Sweet & A Sneak Peek

2011-04-16T17:21:00.000-04:00

Stop by tomorrow for Something Sweet.
For now, here's a Sneak Peek!!!

Click on the photo for ordering info!

Free Pattern

2011-04-07T19:38:00.001-04:00

Donna at Brynwood Needleworks is an inspiration to so many. Not only is her work beautiful but she is a beautiful person!!! Truth be told, her blog is the first blog I read every morning. I always look forward to her creations, her humor, her generosity to so many, and the antics of Fezzik on Fridays.

Donna has shared her pattern to make pillowcases. I've been wanting to make some for a very long time now but just never did get around to it, that is, until Donna inspired me to finally make some for myself. The fabrics I chose are from the Simple Nine Patch quilt I finished last weekend.

Stop by for a visit with Donna by clicking on the button below. Say hello and become a follower. I know you will be just as inspired as I am!!!

Donna is also having a Pre-Vacation Spring Sale. Everything is 20% off. Take advantage before she puts her shops on vacation mode!

Why Is Mercy Ships in Sierra Leone?

2011-03-31T16:36:00.000-04:00

It was an incredibly successful day of medical screening! Approximately 3,000 individuals waited calmly and patiently for many hours—some arriving the day before—with hope that today would be the day they would hear, “Yes, we can help you.”

If you would like to donate to this ministry, please click here. Any gift you send by April 30th will be DOUBLED, thanks to a $250,000 matching pledge, to help TWICE as many people!

Update on Ellianna

2011-03-31T05:46:00.000-04:00

Answered Prayer!!! The doctor took the breathing machine off of Ellianna and she is breathing on her own. Thank you for your prayers but please don't stop. Ellianna is not out of the woods yet.

A Precious Life

2011-03-30T06:21:00.000-04:00

This little one, Ellianna, was born premature and has had to have surgery. But there have been some complications. She is on life support and her parents, Hannah and Mark, have asked for prayer. It is serious.

Please pray for this precious little life and for the comfort of her parents. It is so hard to sometimes feel so helpless when parents watch their children struggle and suffer. The true Comfort comes from the One who holds each one of us, young and old, in the Palm of His Hand. May this family find the Peace and Comfort from our Great and Mighty God who loves each one!