Essences Of The Past

Junk Salvation

2012-02-12T19:24:00.002-08:00

On Saturday Feb. 4th I adventured to Hillsboro, Oregon to check out Junk Salvation Vintage Market. It would not disappoint. There was plenty of great treasures to be had. I saw many of my wonderful blogging friends. I think it is hard to describe the friendship that develops through this blog world, all I can say it is pretty awesome. The photo above and the two photos below are from Sue's space. Joe and Sue bring some of the best things to these shows. I only wish I could afford everything I want. I might have to build a bigger house. Oh! Oh!

Roost Reimagined, these two ladies have some great finds. I first met them at Farm Chicks, not realizing that they are from Oregon. Go to their site to see where they will be next.

Ormolulu's space, Deb knows how to find some of the best treasures and put them together.

This sums up Deb "Heart" that woman puts her whole heart into this business.
Susan from Birdsong. She does not have a blog, however she is involved in The Vintage Gathering sales, go and check out their site for upcoming sales.

This lady Lorene Edwards Forkner has a must have garden book "Handmade Garden Projects," she has great ideas to decorate our gardens.
Antie Joy's space is never without flowers. I love how she always adds this touch to her space.
I don't think one could have too much of this, there are so many uses for these platters and trays. What would you do with them?
That Joy, she sure knows how to find the "Bling" don't you think so?
Lisa of A Thing For Roses. Love her sweet spirit. Go to her site to see where she will be next.
Michelle of My Shabby Passion. That girl has so much energy. I could only strive to have half a much as that girl does. What an inspiration!

Isabella's space, oh so lovely.
Diane of Molly Mo's. They will be having a show coming up in March, you'll want to check out their web site for more details.
Junquesoiree they had lots of paper scrapping products and finished art projects to purchase.

It was so fun to run into Heather Bullard a very talented photographer and Serena from Farmchicks. They really looked like they were having a great time.
Today's Country Farm and Frills was there with some great items. They are also at Monticello Antiques. They used have a store in Sumner, Washington, but are now going to do just shows and some antique mall spaces from what I understood.

This travel trailer was so fun to enter, as you will see below how it was all decorated in Valentine colors. Enjoy!

I think this setting says Romance all over the place. Don't you?
Faded Charm's space. Love all these galvanized pieces.

This space caught my eye. Forget Me Not Dreams, they are from Lake Oswego, Oregon.
I went home with one of these burlap banners for a valentines day decoration. You will want to check out Junk Salvation web site for their next show. They bring together some of the best Junk a girl could want. Next show in the Pacific Northwest is in June in Puyallup, Washington.

Farm Girls Come Together To Celebrate

2012-01-27T16:51:00.000-08:00

"Where Women Cook" that was my gift to my Farm Girl Friends along with the hand made french rolling pin. When we gather we always share a meal. We like to share recipes as well, so my thinking was; what a great way for all of us to have the same cookbook. Have you seen this book? It is awesome. You might want to check it out.
Our meal was a vegetable quiche, with a vegetable salad to compliment it. I have so much fun bringing out all the different special dishes I have to entertain with. How about you?
The little snow globes were part of my gift to my Farm Girl friends. A perfect table favor.
Cherry almond scones were made by Farm Girl Erin. These were very yummy.
Apple Streusel muffins provided from Farm Girl Robin. Yummy! They were very moist.
We finished off our meal with these little tarts that Farm Girl Erin brought, along with some hot tea.
After our meal we shared our journal pages from our last gathering. I always love to see how each of us put our pages together. Oh how fun it has been to look back on our last three years of gathering through our journal pages. We also had chosen to exchange Christmas gifts, the joy we receive from each other is a memory in the making.
Farm Girl Erin gave us an assortment of treasures as you can see here.
Farm Girl Katy had just returned from a cruise to the Caribbean, so she wanted to share a little something from her journey, along with a biodegradable bucket. That will be fun to see how it degrades over time.
Farm Girl Robin made us these old quilt stars and tea dyed pipe cleaner candy canes, along with some yummy apple streusel muffins found on the Folk blog.
I saw an idea in a magazine to make heart shape bird seed feeders, so I decided that would be a great thing for us Farm Girls to do this time of the year.
A mixture of birdseed with dissolved gelatin; molds this mixture together.
We filled our cookie cutter molds. First filling them half full. then adding our jute string loop, then adding more birdseed mixture to fill the mold completely.
Part of our gathering we share our stories. We talk about what kinds of things do we want to do this next year. Do you have special activities planned?
Erin and Robin.
Robin and Katy filling their molds.
You can see here that you can not only use cookie cutters, jello molds work really well.
The finished product. They unmolded beautifully. What are you doing to feed the birds?

The Lewis River Was Roaring

2012-01-24T09:31:00.000-08:00

The Lewis River was roaring. It was very pristine looking to my excitement. All the snow and rain we had these last couple weeks, I was totally expecting chocolate water, well no it was a beautiful clear with a hint of green. The air was very cool and crisp, creating for an invigorating walk in the park. My friend Erin and I have planned to make many of these such walks in our future. Not only do we get to enjoy the scenery but get to share our thoughts and aspirations.
My friend Erin joined me for this walk in the park. We are both nature girls, loving to be out doors. Do you share that common bond with some one?
Take me to the river and I am one Happy Woman! How about you?
The Lewis River was overflowing it's banks.
There was some standing water, but not near as much as I thought there might be.
Natures art. "Peace" symbol on this rock makes me smile. How about you?
Exploring the usena also known as old mans beard. Working for a natural path for seven years, allowed me to learn about so many herbs and plant life that is right in our own woods, that are used for medicinal purposes. Usnea is used in respiratory issues, as well as women's health.
Erin checking out the stretch that usnea has, it was so fun to share this information with her.
Check out that limb. Beautiful!
The ferns growing on the tree limbs. Magical!
I will continue to take paths this year that lead me out doors. Where will your path take you?

Farm Girls Gathered in The Fall

2012-01-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

Farm Girls will be gathering soon, and I need to post on our fall gathering. Katy was our host, thank you for sharing all your culinary talents with us. Katy loves to try new recipes on us. We had a frittata, and assortments of muffins and breads with yummy jam to adorn our tasty morsels. On our agenda was a field trip to The Portland Nursery for apple tasting and of course to bring some apples home so we could make some fun things with the them, some of us will make applesauce, jams or pies. Do you have any special treats you like to make with apples.
Spiced Pumpkin Sippers. A perfect choice of drink for a fall morning.
Katy serving up her frittata, yummy!
Part of our gathering we share treasures. We share our apron stories and journal pages from our previous gathering.
Have you seen this magazine? I came upon it at Barnes and Noble, a perfect resource for us Farm Girls. Wouldn't you think?
Erin made us all aprons, I love mine.
Robin liking her new apron.
Katy was excited about hers, it had horses on it. She has horses on her farm.
As you can see these Farm Girls know how to have fun. Erin, Florence and Katy.
The Farm Girls were then off to The Portland Nursery to do some serious apple tasting.
There were many apples to try. My favorites are galas, jonagolds a mixture of jonathons and golden delicious and honey crisps. Do you have any favorites?
Erin, Katy and Robin tasting and judging all these apples. I don't remember how many there were but as you saw in the previous photo there were a lot.

They had many bins of apples of which you could buy them by the pound. This is Katy checking them out.
Not only did they have apples to sample, but there were vendors there selling apple related items, yes these farm girls did indulge and brought home some of the merchandise.
We Farm Girls had to taste the hard apple cider, since I was the designated driver my tasting was limited, I am a light weight drinker. In any case what I did taste was yummy.
Katy and Erin checking out some of the magazines available at The Portland Nursery.
These Farm Girls do know how to have fun exploring. We are The Mary Jane Farm Girls. Do you have a group women that you have adventures with?

A Perfect Way To Start The New Year!

2012-01-02T08:05:00.000-08:00

It was a perfect way to start the New Years, with a walk at Lewisville Park. The air was cool and crisp. Roger insisted that I wear my new hiking boots. Weighing in at 4# of weight on my feet, ugh. He is my personal trainer and sometimes he can be brutal. It is what I need, however I don't admit it to him. I just tell him he is so brutal. He counters back to me that he is letting me set the pace. Yeah right? Do you have someone that pushes you beyond your limits? I do know that I am always glad when he has just done that in the end. The feeling of accomplishment is a spirtual high!
A very swollen view of the river. We have seen this river at so many different stages.
This is the upper trail at the park, giving us some endurance training with all the up and down hills.
Reflections ahead!
Taking some time for reflecting. Are you taking time for feeding your spirit? Finding the balance.

I Will Be Doing This!

2012-01-01T10:56:00.000-08:00

I will be doing a lot of this, walking that is. I have some goals set for myself to accomplish. I did several walking events last year and will continue to do that again this year, pushing myself to excel beyond last years limits. What are your goals this year? I started slow with very low miles, working up to a half marathon, yes 13.1 miles. More to come on those experiences. In the mean time I am off to walk at our local park. We have an awesome park in our area that gives you some endurance training with some beautiful sites along the way. Our Lewis River runs through this park making for a pristine beautiful experience. Fills my spirit! What fills your spirit?

Creating Christmas at The Muma's

2011-12-31T07:30:00.000-08:00

Creating Christmas at The Muma's was slow to start. I don't know what was going on for me. My grandson's were coming for an overnight, so this grandma had to get with it. The tree went up and lights were added. I am the decorator at our house, so I cherish each ornament and all the memories they conquer up. Do you have special ornaments with a memory? I know I do.
The snow man globe in the back ground is from a walking event of which I got second place.
Remember this is why we celebrate Christmas!

A new grouping this year. The light actually won't be hanging this low, I am waiting for Roger to hang it up higher, but I liked the glow, so I chose to capture the moment. The bark basket was made by my friend Erin, the carved Eagle was bought in a park along the Kootenai River in Idaho, on one of our journeys to Montana.
A menagerie of snowman. A visit in November to Anthropologie, I saw these snow globes, being a creative person, I thought I can do that. The rest is history. I don't seem to make just one of anything. The production started, first for ourselves, then for gifts and then to sale at my shop, I can tell you there were a lot of recipients of these whimsical creations.
A little closer view. Below you will see some of the other snow globes I made. You will be able to tell I had so much fun.

Now how can you not smile at this snowman face?
I have a great variety of aprons, so I change them up with each season, I do gravitate to favorites. I wonder do you have a favorite apron? Perhaps a special memory?

Christmas In The Gorge 2011

2011-12-30T08:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day in The Gorge. Roger and I journeyed up the Columbia River Gorge Christmas Day. We almost got a white Christmas, as we came through Cascade Locks, there were wet snow flakes coming down with a skiff of snow on the sides of the road. I could tell you about many trips to Hood River on Christmas that were quiet treacherous, but we always made it. It was all about being home for Christmas. Do you have any wonderful stories about your journey home during the winter holidays? We brought Christmas dinner for mom and dad. I also brought two Christmas aprons for mom and I to wear. In days past I remember mom wearing aprons, so I wanted to get a picture of her in an apron. I think she was kind of smitten with this one. I turned around to see her hands in the pockets, kinda of fluffing her apron, it is a precious memory I will always have.
Going through the Columbia River Gorge, kind of ethereal. Don't you think?
Mom and I in our Christmas aprons.
Dad, me and mom. Our dinner was perfect. Roger smoked a small turkey perfect for our travel. Mom did the potatoes and brussel sprouts to her perfection, I made the dressing to her instruction, along with the giblet gravy. I asked mom what would she like apple pie or apple crisp, she requested crisp. All the apple pie filling I canned earlier this fall, has made the perfect ingredient to work with. The apple pie filling has been a hit with everyone that has received a jar. It can't get any easier than plop it in the dish and bake. I love the stories I have been getting as to how each person used their lovingly made gift.

Christmas Eve at The Bakers 2011

2011-12-29T09:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve at the Baker's. Every year we do a rotation with our girl's in-laws, this year was Christmas Eve with The Muma's. Jeremy and Jennifer offered to host this eve at their house. I love the garland on the fence, don't you? The house was beautifully decorated. The spirit of Christmas was in the air, you can only imagine what six anxious grandchildren were feeling with anticipation.
The Baker Christmas tree, Jennifer is a Interior Designer, her tree definitely show cases that talent.
Myself with Baby Brayden Baker, the newest boy to the Baker family.
One of the things I try to instill with my girls, is the gift of the handmade means so much, it does not take much to make something, even a special hand written letter, is a treasure to behold. Julie holding one of the snow globes I made this year. Her husband Raymond by her side.
Jeremy showing the Chipolte, Rosemary Roasted Nuts that I made for all the adult men in our family. A gift card completed this gift, a perfect solution to giving a gift they all like.
I am thinking that my granddaughter Jessica is liking the scarf that I made her. Jeremy with baby Brayden looking on.
The grandchildren all exchange names with each other, so through technology, Titus and Talea could watch their cousins open their presents from them. We are all hoping to be together next year for Christmas.
Although Heather and Jason was not here with us, through the technology of skpye we got to have her with us through computer world.
Jennifer modeling the pink cuddle scarf I made her. I am thinking my grandson Ashton was liking it. Ahhh!
The best gift of all, is the gift of hand made. Chants gave papa Roger and I these envelopes, carefully thinking the decorating on the outside of the envelopes. He stated to me I had the cookies on mine, because I like to cook. Oh so sweet.
A key chain bobble from my grandson Chants, I will hang this from my rear view mirror, thinking of Chants every time I look at it with a smile. Thank you Chants!
A gourmet food gift box from Heather and Jason, how fun will that be to cook up those turquoise noodles?
Julie showing off her gift card, always a safe bet. I made her the scarf, I am thinking she is going to get some good use out of it, when winter finally comes.
My grandson Chants here showing off his new rock tumbler. He always brings me rocks, so he can really shine them up for me now.
We gathered around the table for a nice Christmas eve dinner. Thanks Jeremy for cooking the turkey and ham dinner. I hope your Christmas eve was a memorable one.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2011-12-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all my family and friends, may your holidays be filled with magic and lots of love and memories.

Christmas in Seattle

2011-12-20T09:33:00.000-08:00

Roger and I at the hotel before leaving to go to a Christmas party. The party would be well attended, mostly people I did not know, but still fun. The event was a party for all the Liquid Concrete people, whom Roger works with, along with a fund raiser for the heartbeat for warriors organization.
The setting for the party was at the 909 Coffee and Wine bar in Burien, Washington. KC aka Liquid Concrete made arrangements for a shuttle to bring us to the party and back to our hotel. The Christmas lights and garland, the music set the mood for this celebration.
The restaurant was closed for this private party. It was billed as a Liquid Concrete Christmas party/ benefit for the heartbeat warriors organization. I had not heard of them before this, it is on our list of providing donations to from now on. Have you heard of them? Check them out.
My choice for dinner was Sambuca prawns, oh my, I had to ask for a spoon to get every morsel of this entree. I paired it with a moscato d'Asti wine from perrone, Italy. Um!
The music was awesome. KC on sax, along with his brother Steve Sullivan on piano, formerly playing with such greats as, Seals and Crofts, Dionne Warwick, Marilyn McCoo and The Pointer Sisters to list just a few. JV Collier on bass, also a long list of great musical artists he has played with. On vocal was Sunny Wilkinson, one incredible voice. Stuart Nyren on drums, whom we have heard at previous parties. I would say KC knows how to bring a great group of musicians together. Smooth Jazz was the music of the evening.
My desert for the night was Affogato, (espresso, gelato and whip cream) a perfect ending for the night.
Roger and Larry Davis, Larry is in charge of the road repair department of Liquid Concrete. That moss looking stuff that you see on some of our major highways and bridges, yep that is Liquid Concrete.
KC, the man in charge of putting on this event. Although this is blurry, I still wanted to post it. KC has a heart of gold and knows how to put on a party, bringing together some wonderful people. Thank you KC was putting on one incredible party.
After the party it was time for "Sweet Dreams." We both slept in until 10:00 am, which is unheard of for us these days.
In order for Sunday morning was this Maple Spiced Coffee. It was smooth with just the right amount of sweetness. Do you have any special holiday getaways? I think I wouldn't mind doing a getaway just before Christmas every year, even just for one night.

Baker Boys Slumber Over

2011-12-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

The older Baker Boys came on Friday night to slumber over. Papa and the boys would have a sleep over in the Hunt trailer. Roger had a special movie and pirate booty popcorn for them. He made the Hunt trailer nice and cozy. I fully was expecting them to end up in the house before the night was over. Ashton made a comment earlier," it is scary out here, the wolves are howling" (actually the neighbor's dog) and wow that is a huge tree, as he shined the flashlight at a very Tall fir tree. We live in the country, so at night it can be very dark in our neck of the woods. Well they made it through the night, coming into the house hungry for breakfast. After breakfast I had a craft project planned. Then out the door they went to hike the trails and of course to swing on the swing. My most favorite swing of all. There have been so many memories made on this swing. Check out the expression on Jordan's face. It says it all. Don't you think? Thank you Papa Roger for building this swing for us.

Papa Roger, Kevin and Ashton. I learned that Ashton is really into making the swing rock and roll, the more rocking the better.
A Charlie Brown movie was in order before breakfast. This proved to be a great choice.
Chocolate chip pancakes were in order for this morning.
After breakfast I had a craft project for the boys, thinking of what to do, that would be different. I told the boys we were going to make a present for the birds. Using peanut butter as the glue, we stuffed the pine cones with the peanut butter and then pressed the seeds into the crevices. I told the boys they could take them home and perhaps mommy and daddy could hang them in the trees for the birds. You will see what lucky critter got the first bite later in this post. HeeHee!
Jordan rolling is pine cone into the birdseed.
Pressing the seed into the pine cones, what fun!
Kevin, Jordan and Ashton there was something about feeling that birdseed, and of course Jordan who is 3 had to taste the seed. Yikes!
I hung mine just right outside my patio door so we could enjoy watching the feast.
The feast of the pine cone bird feeder by this squirrel got his way at the Baker Boy's home. When the boys got home with their pine cone bird feeders, they had to hang them right away. Well I think this squirrel smelled them a mile away. Well momma Baker took pity on this little guy and laid it on the ledge of their front porch. What are you doing for the birds this winter?

Christmas Magic at Monticello

2011-12-13T20:52:00.000-08:00

Inspiration is bountiful at Monticello Antiques. Go and check out the Magic of Christmas, you are sure to find that special treasure. Each year that I have gone to this sale, I have never been disappointed. The sale goes until January 1st. For more information check out Monticello's blog. Above is Sue's space aka Bella Shabby.
Bella's, clean and crisp.

I have an old wood sled, we have actually used it sledding when the snow was bountiful enough to slide down a hill on. When was the last time you went sledding?
I don't know the name of this vendor, but loved the mix of aqua and cream, how about you?
Annie, Fannie and Abigail, love their talent. Don't you? Such inspiration.
I loved this space Colby Cottage, I was in such ahh as I walked and took in all the beauty here. Enjoy!

I think this might be My Shabby Roses, forgive me if I am wrong.

A lot of vintage to choose from. What's a girl to do

Check out these moose antlers. Wow! This is also from Bella's space.
Deer antlers or even the whole head are very popular these days. These are a beauty, however I am one lucky girl to have my own great hunter, whom brings home my very own antlers.
Antie Joy's space, she always has some great treasure to share with us.

Love bringing in the elements of the outdoors. The smell of the pinecones, the clean crispness of the fir boughs, all say Christmas.
Madison Park, check out those Christmas socks!
There are many vendors at this mall, so much to choose from, you won't be disappointed. May you experience the magic of Christmas, I did! Go check out Monticello Antique Mall.

2nd Saturdaz and Beyond

2011-12-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

The timing was perfect, Roger needed to go to Seattle on business, I had the day off, so I came up with the idea that I would go along with Roger and perhaps we could stay overnight, thus enabling me to go to 2nd Saturdayz, knowing that Willow Nest was going to be a quest vendor was the topping on the cake.
This is the setting for 2nd Saturdayz monthly sale. It would not disappoint. Enjoy the journey with me.
I have always liked this way to wrap my gifts, my girls could tell you, that I always say the best gift, is the gift from the heart. Those made my loving hands are the BEST! Don't you agree?
I wish I would have purchased one of these grain sacks, how many times have you done that to yourself. Darn!
Vintage ball ornaments nestled in a bed of greens in a vintage wagon.
This is from Deb's space Garden Party, I received a special gift from Deb, I think for the first guests to come to the sale. Thank you Deb.
Whimsical Whites had everything vintage, clean and crisp. This photo says Christmas all over the place, don't you think? Here are a few photos from their space.

Although this photo is a little muted, I still wanted to post it, not very often do you see a Santa in a pink suit.
A special treat for me was to get to see Linda and Ludmil from Willow Nest, they came to the Pacific NW to visit, formerly from our area. Linda brings a feeling of ahhhh to her presence, always creating such magic. I remember when I first discovered them at their store in Buxton, Oregon. The rest is history! Here are some photo shots from their space. They brought some French Country with them. Wouldn't you agree?

These cotton gowns, oh so pretty and romantic.
Cinnabarblue had some great handmade treasures here.
These reindeer so remind me of some childhood memories at my grandmas when I was child. Do you have some special memories from Christmas pasts? This puts a smile on my face. Ormolulu had some great treasures here.
Lots of tin ware!!!! I just can't resist. I got a really cool Santa chocolate mold from Ormolulu.
A special treat was to run into this special lady, Kimberly Taylor. Check out her blog, she has a wonderful little farm, keeping all those home making skills alive. Thank you for sharing your ideas and talents!
This photo says Lodge look. Don't you think?
This just says Ole world here. St. Lucia, I think!
Behind these books was a linen apron, I did covet it, but it was a little over my budget. Darn!
Linda, one of the vendors in this event. Below are some photos from her space.
Folk. Have you seen this magazine yet? The photos are really awesome. Check out their web site.
This was a really cool scale.
I love these hand knitted sweaters, I have one that was made by a college roommate, that I bring out every winter. Warm!!!!!
Check out these pretty trees and glittered village houses!

Our journey home took us through Sumner, I was giddy with excitement to get to go to Today Country Store, it was all decked out for Christmas, they currently have a space at Monticello Antique Mall in Portland, Oregon.
Don't you just love these glittered houses? I sure do!
Roger checking out some of the goods at Todays Country Store.

The town of Sumner had a reenactment of Norman Rockwell scenes in many of the stores, this one was at Todays Country Store, it was my favorite.
I came home with some great treasures, a really cool wooden bowl from John Bob cool junk, some tin measuring cups and a special gift of a glittered honeycomb from Linda of Willow Nest.
In the mean time I am on a mission to find a sweater to recycle for these, how fun is that?

Family Gathers Around The Table

2011-12-02T21:57:00.000-08:00

The table was set, ready for my family to arrive, we would be minus my youngest daughter Heather and her family. Even though she is far away, she and her family were with us in spirit. We could only wish that they could live closer, but as most families go through this separation from some of their family members missing from special occasions, we do make up for it when we are all together. In our family it is called MUMA time. We did skype with her that evening. Thanks for the technology to do just that.
I had decided rather than go around the table saying what we are thankful for, I would have everyone write their thoughts on a paper leaf, originally thinking it would be part of the table decorations, I changed my mind, deciding to pass the leafs out at the end of meal, mixing them up, having each one read aloud the one they were given, proved to work perfect, as each person anxiously waited for theirs to be read.
Roger writing his Thankful note. This is a random list of what each person wrote:
Everything, life, family
Thankful for my family, siblings, work, support and friendship from family members
My family
My boys, my wife, my business
I am thankful for my mom and dad and God (Ashton's)
I am thankful for my four boys and very helpful husband
All family together (Bishops in spirit and in our hearts) makes me so thankful and happy
I am thankful for my mom
I am thankful for my family, my job, and my friends and Betty
I am thankful for mom
I am thankful for my family, my siblings, my health, my home and my Love!
Julie and Brayden having some snuggle time before dinner.
Kevin and Ashton playing a game before dinner.
The turkey was perfectly prepared by Roger, he has gotten it in down well.
Our table was perfect size for all of us, six adults and six children. I love to look at these photos from year to year to see who was here that year for the Thanksgiving dinner. Do you do that too?

With little ones at the table, there is always the finger stuffing olives, and of course Papa Roger had to help Jordan out!
After dinner I got to have some snuggle time with this newest addition to our family, Brayden, he has got to be the happiest baby in the world.
My home made apple pie for desert, made from my home canned apple pie filling. Yummy!
Cookies for the kids, and coffee made the old fashion way for the adults. I am kind of smitten with making coffee this way. How about you? Have you tried this method?
A perfect way to end the day with friends Mark and Erin stopping by to visit, sharing a glass of wine and a piece of pie. Hoping your Thanksgiving day was filled with lots of joy!

Thanksgiving Wishes to All my Friends and Family

2011-11-24T07:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my family and friends, enjoy your day and remember what you are most thankful for. Through this blog world I am so thankful for all the friends I have gotten to know and share so many aspects of my life. I have a feeling this turkey is a happy turkey, as I heard he was probably having a pardon from BH Joe. He is a beauty!

Farm Girls Summer Adventures

2011-11-20T08:31:00.000-08:00

Farm Girls adventures to a Farmers Market was on our summer adventure list. This day we would go to The Beaverton Farmers Market, what fun! Of course we could only dream our vegetable gardens could be so bountiful, perhaps someday. We had a full day ahead of us, after the farmers market, we were off to Heirloom Roses and Fergusons Fragrant Gardens in St Paul, Oregon. We certainly love our exploring, I love sharing places with these girls to places, perhaps they have not been to. Do you like to go on adventures to explore the unknown? Farm Girl Katy with her Chard and Kale.
Farm Girls Erin and Robin checking out the bountiful selections of produce. Wow!
Robin finding some beets, um? I wonder what she will do with these?
Although a dark shadow photo, I still decided to post it, I am pretty smitten with this chard and Kale!
After checking out all that food, it was time to feed our bodies, picnic style. Katy would prove to have made the best choice in food here. HeHe! ( Inside joke)
Our next stop would be Heirloom Roses in St Paul, Oregon, Katy and Robin had never been there before. Heirloom Roses has some of the sturdiness stock of roses you could ever imagine.
Farm Girl Robin, making her list of her favorite roses.
Farm Girl Erin checking out all these beautiful starts of roses.
The very essence of the roses here at Heirloom Roses is incredible. Robin, Katy and myself.
Our next stop was Ferguson Fragrant Gardens in St Paul, Oregon, here Katy is checking out all these beautiful roses.
I am pretty excited about my new Eden rose. I am dreaming about a lot of bouquets to come!
My car was loaded with all our vegetables in the cooler and of course our roses. Homeward bound we go!
Once back at my home we had some Lavender Lemonade with ginger cookies. I made these Farm Girl wine glasses, using a candlestick holder from the dollar store, gluing it with epoxy 6000 to a pint canning jar. Um? Farm Girl or Redneck? I would like to think Farm Girl!
A toast to our gathering. Erin, Katy and Robin.
Part of our fun with getting together is to share recipes, Katy made us some homemade granola, yummy!
Robin decorated these little cans and filled them with nourishment for our body.
Handmade treasures from Erin.
My fellow Farm Girls went to check out the progress of my garden. It is so reassuring to compare stories on the status of what our gardens are doing. At this point I was hopeful.
The end of our day was an adventure through the woods of a newly made trail made by Roger and my grandson Chants. Thanks Roger and Chants!

More from The Barn House Vintage Market II

2011-11-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

I had so many favorites from the Barn House Vintage Market, that I just had to add these to my posts. They are random, I want to thank all the vendors who allowed me to take these photos, feeding my creative spirit. I hope you will enjoy this journey I was able to experience.

My two younger daughters Heather and Jennifer posing for me.

This group Celilo and Friends added to the ambiance of this event in the country. You will want to save the date for next year July 28, 2012.

More from The Barn House Vintage Market

2011-11-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

I don't think I can enough of daises, um maybe that is why I had them as one of my wedding flowers, I also have a lot of them in my gardens. I hope you will enjoy this stroll through the Barn House Vintage Market 2011. Joe and Jermone bring some of the best vendors to this sale, creating a ahhh experience.
More summer reminders in those sunflowers, how fun to see that journal paper holder, it conjures up some memories from my past in Oregon.
Debi from Ormolulu has really scored with this vintage plane, as you can see, she is one happy girl.
Don't you think this was a perfect setting for this market?
Lisa Souers with my daughters, Jennifer and Heather. My girls were ah hing over her beautiful creations, perhaps wishing that they would go home with some.
Kristin from Faded Prairie, you can tell by her smile, that she has a sweet spirit about her. I wished she lived closer.
More from Kristin's space.
Katherine who has provided us with yummy salads each year, also takes care of our sweet tooth. Yummy cupcakes!
Carrot Jam, who would of thought? It was very good, I got a jar, now I want to make some for my family. Did any of you get to try it?
Sparrow aka Natalie brings that special touch to this sale. She finds some of the greatest primitives, below you will see some of her special finds below. Enjoy!
One of Natalie's chickens in a coop she had for sale. Just adding to the special touches to this market.
Can a girl have too many watering cans? I don't think any gardener can have too many.

Natalie has such a gift for anything primitive, she is a gifted decorator. I am blessed to know her.

I can't seem to get enough of these turquoise jars, so many uses.

I love the linens, how about you?
Those blue hydrangeas set next to the gray. Wow!
My daughter Jennifer, myself, and Heather. Yes at the time of this photo we were expecting two new grand babies. Jennifer on the left, blessed us with a little boy on September 19th. Heather is due the 29th of December, giving us nine grandchildren in all.
Myself, my clients Yolanda and Woody. It was so fun getting to see them here.
More Seabold Vintage Market. Don't you just love the clean bold colors that Liz displays in her space? Mark your calenders for next years Barn House Vintage Market Place. Go to their blog to get the exact date. I have a couple more posts to do on this event, one of the Vintage Trailer Setting and the Gardens at Barn House.

Down Memory Lane at Barn House Vintage Market

2011-11-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

Barn House Vintage Market, held on Saturday July 30th this year was an event no one wants to miss. The vendors bring their very best, with displays are over the top, enticing us all to want to take it all home. I feel so blessed to get to take photos of some of the best vignettes, I kind of go nuts, therefore taking over 300 photos for one event makes it hard to scale it down to a reasonable amount to post. Enjoy going through memory lane. I will post one more part to get in some of my personal favorites.
You can see by the line here that this event is well attended.

Enamel ware, I don't think I can get enough of it. I do use most of the enamel ware that I have collected over the years. How about you?
Turquoise bottles with the clear bottles with buttons, all my favorite collectible.
These Queen Ann Lace are striking in this garbage can with those blue flowers, don't you think so?

Jermone from Barn House having a conversation with some of the customers.

I love this photo, it just brings memories from my past to the forefront. Having been involved in the farm life, all my life, it is just a deep seed lifestyle I will always have a heart for. I have a photo of my Grandfather in hop fields in the Willamette Valley.
Deb from Retreat Designs, she has such great talent, that we are all lucky to experience from her space. She can re purpose so many things.

I just love the clean crisp look that Liz from Seabold presents in her space.
As you can see the weather was perfect for this Vintage Market. Wouldn't you say so?

Auntie Joy brings such "JOY" and laughter to all of the sales she is involved in, I know I always enjoy my time when I see her. She is the one responsible for getting me started in this blog world. "You can do it" um look where I have come.
Joy comes up with some of the coolest vintage, primitive items, always something for me.
Oh the sweet peas, Joy has this flower down well. Part two to follow on this Barn House Vintage Market, stay tuned!

Fall is here, but Summer is Remembered.

2011-11-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

July was a very busy month for me, with that in my memory I have lot to catch up on here in blog land. First up was my visit to Vintage Gathering on July 29th in the evening. This sale never disappoints, the vendors are awesome, bringing their best treasures for us to discover. I always find something that I cannot pass up like aprons, one of my many weakness. I have thought many times I should hang all of my aprons out on my clothes line, what a great photo that could be. Um maybe this spring I will have to do just that. I will let you enjoy some glimpse's of some of the wares that were for sale below.

Uncovered Ruby, check out their site. They are having a Sugar and Spice Holiday Sale this Friday from 5 - 8pm and Saturday 10:30am to 4:00pm.
Love this crystal hanging hankies, provided by Second Childhood Girlfriends.

I purchased that fishing creel, my plan is to put it in our Hunt trailer aka as Farm Girl trailer.

This so reminds me of our earlier camping days with our girls.
This area so inviting.
Kathy, the hostess for this sale, has a beautiful yard, perfect hosting this Vintage Gathering.
I look at these photos and see all these flowers, oh how I long for summer again. More summer ramblings to come.

I Will Return!

2011-09-04T19:27:00.000-07:00

I will soon return, lots of things have been going on. I have wanted to post on The Barn House Market, as soon as it was over we were off to take our daughter back to Montana, upon returning, that following weekend, which was our 40th anniversary, my younger biological brother past away. I being the oldest I had a lot to do to help take care of his final arrangements, as he was never married and never had children. I then had to put my grief on hold as my parents were celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. Working with the flowers gave me the peace I needed, I was also in charge of taking pictures of the whole event. The event brought close to 150 people. My mom and dad Allen are both 89, so that was such a blessing, that so many of their dear friends were still with us and could come. For me creating is my form of healing, so as grasp at putting it all together I will soon be back with you all. Thank you for your patience. On another note as I write I think of the Lost Lake area north of Mt. Hood is in danger of fire, please pray that it will be saved. I go to that area many times for healing and I am totally blessed to have experienced the healing powers of that mountain and lake.

Vintage Gathering and Barn House Are the Place to Be!

2011-07-29T09:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend is going to be treasure hunt for sure. Vintage Gathering is hosting a flea market starting this evening Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 billed as a candlelight sale, complete with music and a camp fire with s'mores to be made. They will be open again on Saturday for more shopping along with the Barn House Vintage Market and Music Fest. These sales compliment each other and are only a few miles apart, so get your shopping shoes on and check them both out. You won't be disappointed, trust me. The photo above is from Michelle of My Shabby Passions, she is one hard working girl I will tell you.

More Shabby passion shots. I actually bought this fence post sign.
Kathy Foley hosts this great flea market sale, she also makes these stenciled signs, she has come up with some great sayings, also great prices too!
My self, Natalie and I don't remember this sweet lady's name. Part of going to these great sales, is being able to see like minded friends, what a treasure I have found in many of them. For this I am thankful!
Uncovered Ruby, don't this make you want to just curl up and take a nap? I wish I Pacific NW would allow us to have an outdoor setting like this once in awhile. How about you?
Another Uncovered Ruby display. Those girls sure have a gift to put it together.

The pyrex people, oh how I marvel as I look at these peoples items, they conjure of memories from the past, I still have a few pieces from wedding gifts I got 40 years ago. Does that mean I am getting older too?
I heart these peonies, only wish I could grow them. Help!!!
Mary Jo from Faded Roses, she is such a talented sewer,love her creations, here she is wrapping up a vintage gown I bought. She has been featured in Apronology for an apron she created, you go girl!!!!

Natalie will be at The Barn House sale this weekend, the Queen of the rustic, I love her style, I want her style, (oh no that means I need to get rid of a lot of stuff) help! Cheryl will be at Vintage Gathering this evening and Saturday, be sure and check out her space. I do apologize I can not remember this young lady's name, it totally is lost from my mind. I will say she was so sweet.
Cheryl has some very creative ways to use her vintage finds to share with us all.
You will find lots of linens, primitive objects and lots of vintage at this sale, you won't want to miss it. Enjoy your treasure hunting.

Farm Girls Go Junking

2011-07-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

Mary Jane Farm Girls know how to go Junking big time. Our route took us north to Junk Salvation, but there were a few stops along the way. A stop at Folk Art Gathering was in order with a light lunch at the quaint cafe attached to the same building. Then we were off to The Fairie Herb Garden in Tumwater, Washington, it is one of my favorite places to visit season to season. Next stop Shipwreck Beads, what a candy store for any creative beader. I had to contain my urges. Yikes!
We stopped at Folk Art Gathering in Centrailia, oh so much Americana.
One of our stops along the way was Shipwreck Beads in Olympia to check out all their beads, Robin wanted to learn how to make the light catchers that I have made for years so here I am giving her quick lesson at our motel.
Robin showing off her first light catcher, here with Erin.
Check this flower out, made from twigs and wire, this is what greeted us as we entered Junk Salvation.
This is Cheryl also known as Voondi, I loved her booth, she will be at Vintage Gathering this weekend, go check out her treasures and creativity.

Love that mattress and pillow ticking, so many uses for them.
I covet this top, however it was not for sale, darn!!!!
The next few photos are from The Country Store booth, they also have a shop in Sumner, Washington.

Robin checking out some enamel wear, we all seem to have a weakness for this type of items.
One of our visits was to The Country Store in Sumner, just can't too much of this junking.

Florence and Erin.
Farm Girl Robin and Farm Girl Erin.
This vintage trailer was on display outside of the Junk Salvation sale site. Decisions to be made, we have a 16 ft travel trailer, that is now registered to my name, with Roger's blessing for me to decorate how ever I want. I would normally lean towards the aqua, but I keep thinking I should be practical and go more cabin like, since it will be used for hunting too. Oh the decisions to make.

I just love these crystals, don't you? Well this Farm Girl will be going junking this weekend between Barn House and Vintage Gathering, what's a girl to do, but do some serious junking. You won't want to miss out. Check out their blogs.

Farm Chicks 2011 Part 3

2011-06-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

This is my final post of Farm Chicks as you can see I take way too many photos to get them into just one post. I sometimes feel like I am a child in a candy store. Wow! I will hardly ever pass up and opportunity to take photos of our Red White and Blue. How about you?
There is always something there for the guys as you can see here.
EAT SWEETS what a treat. Every year The Seven Sisters seem to sell out all their sweets that they have prepared fresh for us all. Thank you!
Here are the Seven Sisters responsible for making those yummy treats for us all. They all seem like they are really having fun.
This space Euro-Linens had so many linens and gowns, one of which came home with me.
Pillow ticking is one of my favorites, check out those cute rosettes.
Another photo from Ormolulu's space. I was thinking those feed sacks could make a great center to a quilt.
Love this bird house, how about you? This too was from Ormolulu's space.
These letters were available at Retreat Vintage, Deb has some of the greatest treasures, love her creativity of recycled items. She will be at the Barn House Flea Market July 30th and also has a sale in the fall on Camano Island in Washington.
I wished I had purchased these croquet balls. Darn, one of those after thoughts.
Lisa Souers love her jewelry and her creative ways to display, oh how I wish I had that grain silo, what a great play house for the little ones or whatever I might think of.
Heather Bullard had her building plans for her chicken coop available on her site. Check it out.
Check out these chicken feeders, Celeste from Chaps had this space.
This was a really cool space with all kinds of little finds to create with. Fun Junk is the name here, piles of old stuff, says it all.
I think this Isabella's space, hoping I am correct.

Rene Groom a fellow farm girl from the east side of state of Washington, what a nice surprise to see her there.
What a great welcoming spirit when go to Chaps in Spokane, Washington, the food was perfect, the atmosphere wonderful.
Love to have the chance to go to Chaps when in Spokane, you should check it out when you go next time, you won't be disappointed.
A visit to Chaps for dinner and the topping on the cake was this drink a signature Barn House drink. Yummy!!!!
One of the treasures I got, oh how I wish I were at the beach. Some day soon. I hope you enjoyed the journey as I saw it at Farm Chicks 2011. I will be ready to go again next year. How about you?

Farm Chicks 2011 Part 2

2011-06-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

Quilts, my weakness, however I do have a great collection. This space has tables of such great selection of vintage items, nothing priced so you have to ask, which is not my most favorite thing to do. Oh well I just have to get used to it.
More linens, I purchased a great aqua polka dot vintage apron from here for only $3.00, awesome.
A Thing For Roses, Lisa's space, every time I went by she was so busy, yahoo!!! You go girl!!!
Crinolines are still well sought after.
Chicks that's what we are, enjoying the journey!
These jars drew me in, of course I bought one, the lady says they were milk man samples from the Midwest. Oh so cool, so many uses for it.
These letters are so popular these days, as well as the windmills. This space was The Vintage Barn, says it all.
I saw this blooming foxglove and could not resist taking this photo, as mine had not yet bloomed, they are now currently in all their glory in my cottage gardens. This booth has a antique shop in Couer d' Alene, Idaho. Foxglove Antiques, how appropriately named.
There were all sorts of chandeliers in every shape, using all kinds of different recycled mediums. Don't you just love them?
This was from John Bob Cool Junk, such talented treasures they have.
More crystal chandeliers, Love, love them!
Oh how we want to do more of this, lemonade, fresh daisies, just relaxing and enjoying the view!
I love this cupola, I could have so much fun with this. This is from Ormolulu's space.
Don't you just love these vintage seed packets, I could have one of each.
Some great vintage aprons.
Seabold Vintage, Love their look so clean and crisp! How about you? They will be at Barn House Flea Market July 30th.
Another view from Seabold Vintage. Stay tuned for part Three!

Farm Chicks 2011 Part 1

2011-06-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

"Believe" that is what Serena from FARM CHICKS did and we are all glad that she believed. June 4th and 5th in Spokane, Washington was the setting for this incredible sale. Roger and I went on this adventure together, combining a business trip for him and fun for me. Well he did have fun to as our son-in-law Jason was playing in an adult soccer tournament in Spokane that weekend. I love going to this sale, not only to see all the wonderful vendors, but all the treasures that could be found in one spot.
One of the lines to get in, I went on Friday a pre-bought my tickets so I could get right in on Saturday morning. The weather was absolutely perfect!
"HOWDY" one big family event. These vendors are so awesome!
"FUN" says it all. Plan ahead to spend the whole day and perhaps the second day.
Farm Chicks memories to take home.
Farm Chicks memento to remember the weekend.
An abundance of linen pillows, every where I went.
Linens I want them all! How about you?
Seabold love their clean crisp look, don't you? They will be at BARN HOUSE FLEA MARKET! Woops not Seabold I have another photo from their booth. Next part stay tuned.
Garden Party, Debi whom I met at Funky Junk Sisters show a couple of years ago, such a gentle sweet talented lady.
Love this use of this farm water tub, lights and all. Great idea Funky Junk Jennifer. These ladies were so kind and fun!
Check this old car out, what a great conversational piece, a lot of photos were taken with people in this setting. Another Funky Junk Jennifer space.
Lots and lots of pillows, every style you can imagine.
Auntie Joy's space, such a a "joy" to see her. She will be at the BARN HOUSE FLEA MARKET IN JULY MARK YOUR CALENDERS. July 30th. Vintage Gathering will be another great flea market to hit on this day. Don't Forget you'll be disappointed if you do.
This space was "Blue Canoe" from California,no website.
I loved this metal sign, as I have several family members who are formal marines.
Linda, Tiffany and Robin having some fun. Love these creative girls, such inspirations they bring to us.
Love these flags our good ol' Red, White and Blue. Stay tune to part 2 Farm Chicks 2011

The Pleasure of Tea for The Farm Girls

2011-05-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

The Pleasure of Tea was our theme for this gathering of our Farm Girls, Erin was the host, meal was tomato basil soup, blueberry scones, turkey wraps, blue cheese vinaigrette dressing on a bed of lettuce and yummy deserts completed this tea. Just getting together was enough for these girls, we always have so much to share, that we just can't quick talking. Do you have a group or friend like that?
Erin, Katy and Robin having some tea and sharing our stories and just catching up, as you might remember Erin was away out of town for our last gathering, it was so nice to have her back.
Robin sharing this cast iron flat pan that belonged to her Grandma, what a treasure. We all love our cast iron. How about you?
Katy shared this recipe with us from the current Martha Steward magazine, she took it one step further and graced us with some to take home. Yummy!!!! Thanks Katy!
Here I am sharing my excitement of my photo publication featuring my blog, what a blessing it has been. I thank all who were responsible for this to happen.
Farm girl project this gathering was put together by Robin and I, I am the gather for sure, and love to share my ideas. One thing for sure about these girls they are all so creative in their talents and so giving to share.
The table was set with all the supplies needed to do this crafting project.
Robin, Katy and Erin choosing their designs to create their bottle cap magnets with.
I love this photo of Erin and I, when we get together to create we are certainly in our element. Ahhh!
I think that Katy was smitten over this peppermint pattie that I made homemade from Giada's recipe. It is so fun to share these with my friends.
An impromptu craft project, Erin showed us how to make these cute little bird nest as seen in Country Living. Thanks Erin for sharing.
Erin preparing the shredded paper with watered glue to be molded over saran wrapped bowl to form the nest.
Erin and Robin getting our bowls ready for nest building.
Some finished bird nests, how fun was that?
We are so all looking forward to a real spring. How about you?

Easter Blessings!

2011-04-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

While hiking last weekend up the Columbia River Gorge at Eagle Creek Falls, I came across this setting and decided it was most worthy of this holiday celebration, remembering that Christ died on the cross, giving us new beginnings. Enjoy this time with your families and those you hold close.

OMG

2011-04-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

OMG I can hardly believe this, I feel so truly blessed, back in February I received an e-mail from Romantic Homes senior editor Justine Lopez asking me if I would be interested in submitting some photos from my blog depicting Spring, Easter, or Mothers Day. They would be published in the May issue. I took a deep breath and said to myself, OMG, I went through all the self doubt, were my photos worthy of a magazine? Well I finally said to myself go for it. I still could not believe it until I saw it for real. I must say that I have been privileged to experience some wonderful flea markets and antique shows, we have a great array of some very talented people in our area. The photos chosen, two of which were from the Barn House Flea Market last summer; one was from Little Cottage's booth, one of Bella's I believe and the final one chosen was from last springs Funky Junk Sisters show in Puyallup, Washington. I thank these wonderful vender's for sharing their talent with me.
Do you know how cool and exciting it is to see you name and photos in print? Wow! I was featured in the section of "sites we love" which show cases bloggers.
Yes I did go and buy up several copies for my family and of course myself. I can't thank every one enough for the many gifts they have shared with me, allowing the opportunity to take photos at their shows and events. Many hugs to all. Florence

Welcome Spring! Let the Spring Shows Begin!

2011-04-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome Spring! We are all so ready for spring, I think all around us. What a winter it has been. I ventured out to Auntie Joy's first sale of the season, what a treat.
Joy and I, I purchased this blue enamel pitcher and Joy gave me the daffodils. Joy and I go way back, I met Joy at The Oregon Garden Quilt show a few years ago, she gave me the confidence to start a blog, the rest is history, I am so ever grateful to her for all the blessings that have been giving me through this blog world. Thank you Joy!
Daffodils in all their glory in this flower stand.
Joy creates some of the greatest necklaces and bracelets, one of which I treated myself to.
How fun would it be to wear this to a girlie party!
These lockers sure evokes memories of days gone by, like High School, how about you?
Enamel ware I can not resist. Add some daffodils and they just pop!
Mr. Dave Joy's right hand man, what a special guy she has there. Joy will be at The Monticello Spring Garden Show, be sure and check her space out.
A visit to Monticello Antique Mall would not disappoint, as I write this they are preparing for their spring garden show, be sure and check it out.
Some one builds these great garden potting sheds for Monticello, you must check them out.
White with pink, certainly is my weakness. How about yours?
White ironstone never seems to go out of style. I have a great collection of pitchers.
I am so ready for some porch time, how about you?
A impromptu show from Barn House Boys would not disappoint, with Natalie adding her special touch to this show. This would be the start of our soon to be spring sales. What a great uplifting event. They held their show in this 1912 Venersborg School house, a perfect setting, don't you think?
Burlap, wood, linens and glass were all present at this great impromptu show.
Love, love these linen towels.
Oh to have a farm table, someday when I can remodel my family room and kitchen.
Linens and crocks some of my favorites.
I don't think many people can pass up these aqua canning jars, they have so many uses.
Love the stripes and the green jade dishes.
Be sure and check out The Garden Show at Monticello starting this Friday the 8th of April going through the May 30th. Enjoy!

Montana In The Winter

2011-03-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

I headed to the Montana mountains for my lone visit to Heather's. I went February 17th through the 22nd, flying this time, much faster! This is our one on one time, with out PaPa, (whom I must say felt slighted) I held strong and said it was my time. We had lots of plans, some crafting as you will see, a little shopping, a little chai at a Montana Coffee shop and just time hanging out.
Snow was still hanging out here. It did not keep us from going out and walking, the first night it was a bit treacherous in the dark and not knowing where the ice was, thus a slower walk for me. I would make up for it on Sunday walking in the day light doing a 15 min. mile at 3000ft elevation and 18 degrees, not bad for this 60 year old grandma, I would say.
One of my projects that I had brought along was to start another quilt, I had finished the hand sewing of the binding on my log cabin quilt, so I was off to a new one. I had purchased a layer cake which was 42 ten inch squares, my project called for 35, that said and with questions from Heather, I knew it was time for her to tackle her first quilt, making this a very proud momma.
Ok I can do this, part of good quilting is accurate cutting.
Heather begins her process of putting her squares together to look perfect for her quilt.
You can see by her expression, she is a little nervous, but she did an awesome job.
One row done, excellent seams, Perfecto!!!! Accurate---Wow!
Lots more confidence at the machine, she has it down good.
With a perfect patchwork square, I said, "now Heather this will be perfect for a baby quilt for Talea's dollies, she said "heck no I am keeping this!" I think she was proud of her accomplishment, I know I was for her.
Ok we are now on a mission, to find at least one fabric for a border and a backing, so thank goodness Kalispell has some Quilt Shops. I loved watching Heather choose her fabrics.
This quilt was made by sandwiching the fabrics together then pulled through and tied.
Heather's quilt finished. Yahoo! Way to go Heather!
I had made an apron for Talea, these pictures are priceless, as you look at the progression of the gift to her I had. Heather did a great job capturing each phase. Thank you Heather! Look closely at Talea's reactions.

Talea in her new apron with grandma! Does my HEART good.
I love this photo, Talea immediately said "mommy we make cookies?" A great photo of Heather too.
Is this just too precious, Talea licking the rest of the peanut butter out of the measuring cup?
Once Titus found out that I had made Talea an apron, well this grandma had to get to work making him one too!
Enough said I think they were happy with their aprons, don't you?
On Saturday morning we were off to Titus's basket ball game, if I knew how to up load a video I would I have a great one of him playing and making a basket, with grandma's loud shrill in the back ground, alright Titus.
One of our missions this visit was to try our skills at making peppermint patties, we followed Giada's recipe on the food network channel. So very easy and fun tooooo!
The peppermint pattie is formed similar to pie dough as you can see.
The dough is rolled into a log, preparing for the next step.
Heather forming the pattie into round balls then flattening them out to dry on the parchment.
The round patties air drying. Then they are dipped in dark chocolate.
Yummy, moderation is the word here. A special treat for me!!!! The BEST!
Lots of cuddle time and reading are done on this visit, here I am reading my quilt book to Talea, the second time around I sing it to her, then I say to her to sing it to grandma, so she sings "lalalala". I learn later from one of my clients that singing a song registers in a different part of the brain and stores that information there, who knows maybe she will be my third generation quilter?
Memories are continued to be made of my visits to Montanta in the Winter!

Farm Girls Celebrate

2011-03-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

Farm Girls gathered to celebrate our two year anniversary and Valentines Day at my home on February 12, we had decided to make Valentines cards and tags, with Katy and Robin teaches us what we were about to do. These glittered heart shaped came from K. Marie, one of my favorite paper artist, she also has a sister whom has a candy shop in Milwaukie, Oregon called Enchante, a wonderful place to visit and be treated.

I love bringing out these hearts for the Valentine season.
Plenty of red accented my house for this holiday celebration, I have so much fun changing the colors in my home, to fit the season, some times just adding an accent color.
As you can see I always have a great array of Aprons to choose from.
A great resource for inspiration "Romantic Homes."
Robin, myself and Katy, we got Roger to take a photo before he went off to get chicken poop for the garden, he would later say we girls could earn our badges if we shoveled the chicken poop on the garden, hee, hee!
I had to share my quilt that was almost done except for the binding, that would be completed when I would go to Montana for my winter visit.
Everything was ready for the girls to choose and work with to make their special Valentines. I told them I think half the fun for me is gathering the supplies for them to work with.
A perfect collection of ribbons to play with.
Lots to choose from with a few treats to nibble on.
Robin and Katy concentrating on their Valentine projects.
Lots to choose from, foil hearts, edge stampers for our little note cards.
The table was set with a Valentine theme for our luncheon.
This place setting was set for our Farm Girl Erin who was unable to attend as she has been out of town with her husband on a job, she has been dearly missed.
Toasting to our second year as a group of Farm Girl Women. The glasses I used were very special as they were purchase from Willows Nest when they were down in Buxton, Oregon, on the bottom of the glass is edge made in France.
Our lunch included tuna noodle casserole provided by Katy, a crasin medley salad from Robin and Parmesan crisp mini breads from Trader Joe's, finishing with a flavored Ice drink, what color, none other than red of course.
Our desert was a peppermint pattie cup cake sitting on top of an individual cup cake stand from FarmHouse Wares.
These sweet meringues were a nice light treat for us Farm Girls. This scalloped heart shaped dish came from my mother-in-law who has since past on, it is always brought out for this holiday with a smile and remembrance of what she meant to me. Love you mom Muma!
We had chosen to do a Valentine exchange, Robin made us spiced pumpkin granola, what a great treat, tasty yum.
Katy made us home made marshmallows, following two separate recipe, what a special treat.
A collection of Valentine Gifts from my Farm Girl Friends.
Our finished Valentine ready for giving. Hope your day was all that you wanted it to be.

Sister Hood "Love"

2011-03-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

"LOVE" Our sister hood group got together to celebrate Valentines Day on February 9th, a tradition for us for over 30 years, wow. We do have a lot of great memories.
Nancy on the left and Robin our host for this get together. Thank you Robin for hosting us at your beautiful home.
Sister Hood Group, Nancy, Judy, Robin, Lola and of course myself, whom was taking this photo.
The table was set with beautiful heart shaped plates and cups to match.
Our host Robin prepared this fresh raspberry tart, it was a delicious treat for us all. Love that pedestal plate, don't you?
Yummy! Complete with fresh whipping cream and a heart shaped dove chocolate.
Valentine plates covered in heart shape chocolates from Sees along with handmade cards made from Mary Engelbreit's daily calenders.
Beautiful, loving gifts received from my sisterhood group. All the memories I have, as I display over 30 years of sharing our talents and gifts from each other.

Quilt Retreat in The Country

2011-03-01T11:51:00.000-08:00

I received a phone call from my friend Lola, asking me if I would like to attend a quilt retreat, I couldn't say yes fast enough. The group hosting this event were the Ladies of The Lake Quilt Guild, from Longview, Washington. First things first, I had to become a member, then I was on board. Our event was super bowl weekend, how perfect for me. The retreat was way out in the country towards Raymond, Washington at Falls Creek Retreat Center. The perfect setting to do nothing but sew to ones heart content. Lodging was great, food delicious, company superb, what more could a quilter ask for? I was about to embark on a weekend to remember.
My first square done, yahoo!!!!
Quilt squares done ready to be put together into strips, then those strips put together to form the center of the quilt.
With my blocks sewn together, I was ready to sew my strips on, almost there!
You can see here I had the most perfect work area to create in.
I accomplished my goal to finish this Log Cabin Quilt, now it was ready for the machine quilter.
My friend Lola and I pretty happy with our accomplishments this weekend, as you can see we had so much room to work with.
This was a view from upstairs, as you can see we had lots of room, perfect cutting tables, design walls and ironing stations.
Part of the retreat were some demonstrations done, Lola did a ten minute table runner, Debi here was showing us some tricks of the trade for appliqueing. I picked up some great tips, thank you Debi!
Cathy showing a new tool to turn ties inside out after sewing your strip, way to cool, I was at Jo Ann's the next day to buy one, that certainly will make ties so much easier. Yahoo!
One of our assignments was to bring 50 signature strips to share with our fellow quilters, to make a signature quilt from, for the memory of this event. How fun it was to meet some of these people.
This is one of the finished signature quilts that some one in the group finished, I think this was their quilt project for the quilt retreat.
This was a finished signature block with my name included, no this is not my square, another project for me to do one of these days. I love the heart center and of course the star, how about you?
Lola and Pam signing their signature strips for their contribution for everyone.
Everyone was given a piece of fabric to create a block with, here Pam and Cathy are hanging the quilt squares on the design board for all to see, later there would be a drawing for for groupings of 12, for some lucky people.
Our group shot here, there were 42 of us. All these women were so kind and sharing.
Having not brought enough for me to work on, I decided Sunday morning I would go for a hike, there is a falls on this property, with easy access to viewing it, so I was off and was not disappointed. It felt good to be out in nature, very refreshing.
Following the river bed, I knew I would find my way to Falls Creek.
While walking on the trail I came upon a surprise, an old hunters cabin, complete with a Monarch wood cook stove, old spring bed, side table with a wash basin, oh the memories that must have been made here!
This cabin was such a treat to go in and explore, left in tact from its last inhabitants.
Another hike took up a steep incline to a chapel, coming to a T in the road one way to the upper cross another to the lower cross, knowing full well I needed to go to the upper cross first, I made my accent; that was where the chapel was, heading back down the mountain I followed the signs to the lower cross, I have to say this was my favorite, nestled in the woods with wood benches to sit on and just reflect, was perfect for sharing my gratefulness for this past year.

Queen of Tarte Revisited

2011-02-17T21:22:00.000-08:00

I write this post after the fact, but thinking what a great reminder, for those looking for something to do this weekend. The Queen of Tarte will be open this weekend for her monthly sale. Check out her blog to get more information. Cindy always comes up with some great ideas that you won't want to miss.
Loved this area, as I am alchemist myself in the art of aromatherapy.
These linens are just too hard to pass up. Just simply divine.
This area had so much to see, that I had to walk around and around to make sure I didn't miss anything.
This farm table was so awesome, I love that it has rollers on it, perfect for moving wherever you might need it.
This cup holder was to die for, I have been eyeing these for awhile, some day maybe?
A basket full of cloth tape measure, boy was I tempted.
Cindy had said we could go up the long stairs to her studio, what a treat that was. Don't you just love these stairs?
This chandelier my oh my! As I entered the this area I was in such ahh, it is hard to describe. I just wanted to stay and sit awhile.
A huge room transformed into a multi use area.

Class room space are one of the options for this area. How fun would that be. I know Cindy has some fun exciting ideas of what to do up here.
Just a few of the treasures I brought home, you will see in a later post what I did with these hearts. The heart tags were from Kmarie, she certainly knows how to work with the glitter, I used them for my Valentine decorating for my Valentine gathering with the Farm Girls.
I love this jug I bought, perfect for flower arrangements. The heart shaped cookies were simply delicious too!
In the meantime, I will just dream about Tarte Land as I am in Montana visiting my daughter and her family, so I will be awaiting for fellow blogger posts on this weekend's event. Have Fun!

Cousin's Sleepover

2011-02-10T09:51:00.000-08:00

A post Christmas gathering of the cousins to celebrate the holidays on Jan 20th, was a weekend to remember. Our plan was to work with the gemstones and beads, clearing any dead energy in the house, I drummed the area, just like native Americans would clear the energy with sage, you can do the same thing with drumming. Reflecting back on the weekend, I know for myself my creativity was very bountiful, I contribute that to my energy was not stagnate anymore. Yahoo!

Donna, Kathy and I about to embark on our journey to Battle Ground. One might ask why all the group shots, it is our memories of where we have been.
Roger and our grandson Chants, would have their own sleepover, they went target shooting and then watched all night western movies in the "Hunt Trailer" while us women had the comforts of home. I did hear they were pretty cozy out there, with their new flat screen, heat and treats.
This sign says it all, spending time with family is so important, whether it is biological or not, we all need to do this. The girls wanted to check out a couple shops in Battle Ground, so we were off to Battle Grounds, Uncovered Ruby, the girls were not disappointed at all.
Some of my treasures I found at Uncovered Ruby in Battle Ground, Washington.
Kathy, Donna and I at" Battle Grounds" a coffee shop in old town Battle Ground, the setting an old church.
My first nonfat purchased chai in 10 months, oh so worth it!!!!!!

A perfect brisk cool afternoon to walk at Lewisville Park, just outside of Battle Ground, Washington.
Back at the house, I shared this wall hanging one of my clients gave me, some beautiful art work, do you see the cross? A light dinner, then these women were about ready to do some serious creating. I have a huge collection of gemstones and beads, Kathy and Donna brought some of their collection to share as well. We ended up staying up until 2:30 in morning, yes you read that right!!!! Very unusual for us three these days.
Kathy and Donna creating with the stones, Donna was making light catchers and some earrings and Kathy made earrings. Yes I finished off that bottle wine, I did share with Roger however, sending him at text message to the hunt trailer, he was right over to the back door to get his glass of wine, what was a girl to do, she certainly couldn't drink that all by herself, could she?
Kathy reading here the properties of the gemstones, I truly believe they have do healing work, God created them, so how can they not?
The finished product of my creative juices, creativity was definitely flowing. I sale some of these at my shop.

Farm Girls Frolic With The Snowmen

2011-01-17T21:35:00.000-08:00

Mary Jane Farm Girls got together at my home on Saturday, Jan 8th to frolic with the snowmen. We were missing one of our member's Erin, she was away, hoping to be with us for our next gathering in February. I have left some of my Christmas up through the month of January so I can share the magic with my friends and family. One would think I would be tired of it by now, not really. There is just something magical about all those twinkling lights, don't you think?
A must for us Farm Girls, when we can get it, we get a group shot, here we have myself, Robin and Katy.
Katy made this quilt, I am so proud of her. We love to share our projects that we have been working on. After sharing our journal pages and apron stories, it was time for lunch before we started our creating.
Snowman plates and mugs complete this theme for the Farm Girls luncheon.

Our lunch menu included black bean soup from Bob's Red Mill that Katy made, a spinach, walnut, cranberry salad, cherry sparkling cider to drink, pumpkin muffins from Robin.
Pumpkin muffins from Farm Girl Robin.
Desert was easy, a pumpkin souffle from Trader Joe's with some whip, a special treat.
These snowmen heads were ready for making snowmen bodies, creating our own little snowmen to adorn our winter decorations. I think half of the fun for me is the gathering the supplies to make our projects, oh so much fun. The next few photos show you what we had to work with.
Lots and lots of pearls, special hand made carrot nose's from Erin.

Robin and Katy having fun putting their snowmen together.
Our finished snowman jars, I think they turned out quite whimsical, don't you?
We do a gift exchange, trying to keep it simple and of course from the heart. I found these initial labels at pottery barn, a perfect accent to the bag. With us all thinking about our fall harvest, we definitely like to share our bountiful blessings, with jams, jellies, muffins, gift tags, a vanilla bean to make our own vanilla extract, a sugar hand scrub rounded out our treasures received. Thank you to you my Farm Girls, I feel so blessed.
I made all the girls, homemade elderberry jelly and a medley syrup to go over their Bob's organic pancake and waffle mix, yummy and healthy all at once.
Robin sharing her new pincushion I made these Farm Girls, the base is a galvanized jar lid, the fabric is wool, accented with wool flowers.
Katy and Robin sharing their new Christmas aprons.
Katy and I showing off our new Christmas aprons from Robin, Robin said she got these from Uncovered Ruby in Battle Ground, Washington.
Myself holding some gift tags from Farm Girl Robin, one of our next projects for our gathering in February.
Robin holding her new flour sack towel from Bob's Red Mill. Don't you just love the feel of a good dish towel? We are all looking forward to our next gathering in February, not only will it be for Valentines Day, but our two year anniversary of getting together, truly I am blessed. I hope you have some special friends to share your creativity with.

Celebrating The Holidays

2011-01-01T19:03:00.000-08:00

The Muma household was all decked out for the holidays, I love this time of the year, as soon as I walk in my home after being gone all day, the holiday lights go on, jammies next and then just ahhhh comes into play. I will leave everything up until the end of January, as I have several activities in January of which I love to share with my family and friends. Enjoy the view!
These lights went on the weekend before Thanksgiving to be ready for turning on Thanksgiving night.
A wind storm came in with 66 mile an hour winds, so I had to re-think my sidewalk area, as I lost a lantern holder, that held three lanterns due to the storm. Change is good, it gets the creativity flowing.

I have chosen to have a tall slim tree, love it, it is artificial and works really well for us. I add some fresh greens to bring out the Christmas smells.

As you can see I lean towards a more primitive theme in my decorating, that carries on to my table as well.
My holiday dishes came from Meir and Frank many years ago, this was my first time using plate chargers, I am thinking that I really like this look. How about you?
We always get a family shot at the table, it was so nice to be able to have all the kids at our same table, a small group for us this year. Heather and Jason came earlier in the month, to avoid the holiday travel snarls, that always seems to happen. We missed them dearly, you'll see later in this post, how we were able to see them on that day after all.

Here we are using my lap top with skpe, talking with Heather and her family while they are in Montana and we are here in Brush Prairie, Washington. The technology so amazes me.
Jordan and I sharing some olive time.
Each one of my girls received one of these from me, now we all have one.
Jennifer and Julie enjoying some down time, what were they talking about? Secrets? This is a really good photo of them together.
My son-in-law Jeremy enjoying some I- phone time, notice the log cabin quilt, it is one I made over 12 years ago, it is one of my favorites.
A little wine and some candle ambiance. Um!
I love receiving Christmas cards and most certainly send them out, that is close to 100 of them, it has been a tradition since I got married 39 years ago. Do you keep up that tradition?

A silver angel, a gift from a friend, she adorned my tree perfectly.
Love this heart with all it's sparkle.

Now is the time for some relaxing and enjoying some tea. Happy New Year Everyone!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

2010-12-25T08:20:00.000-08:00

Getting Ready for The Holidays

2010-12-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the holidays, had Roger and I out getting the garland on the fence, hanging the Christmas lights on the house. With the whole family getting together right after Thanksgiving, the lights and some decorations had to be up. Heather and Jason and the babies would be traveling over the three mountain passes to get to us for a week long visit. Heather's sisters would be getting their homes ready for Christmas as well, our sort of pre- Christmas with Heather. Our week was full of activities, of which I plan to share on my blog, but in my mind I have to do this is some order, so you are getting a little smitten of some of what has been going on around here.
Here I am getting the lighted garland on the picket fence, I love it when the snow falls on the day I am to hang the garland, it just sets the mood for the holidays, don't you think? This was the Sunday before Thanksgiving. I remember all those years in Hood River, Oregon, when we would always have some sort of snow on Thanksgiving day, setting the mood for Christmas to come.
Our holiday season started off with a great experience, my first 5K walk, and what better way to start your holiday, there were about 1200 people for this event, I just can't imagine one with many thousands of people, yikes!
Kristina here with me, is one of my co-workers, she has been a real source of inspiration to get me moving, she has some high expectations for me, I just keep saying, I will only be walking, she runs marathons, walking is my choice of exercise, I keep telling her.
This was our first 5K walk together, Yahoo!! Baby it was cold, thanks to walking and Roger's very warm down vest I kept very warm

After the Turkey Trot, Roger and I raced home, cleaned up, then went to the Senior Baker's for dinner. This was the year our girls do this holiday with their in-laws, we were invited to Jennifer's in-laws. Thank you Tim and Janet.
All of us women working in the kitchen getting the Thanks Giving dinner prepared. Janet, Apolina, Jennifer, Michelle and myself. This week went so fast, getting ready for Heather's family to come, it felt like a whirl wind of activities.
Heather's family getting to come right after Thanksgiving and just before Christmas, created a lot of family bonding time. There is more to post on our activities, I will just start here to begin with. What a great photo of ALL my Grandchildren. I was so pleased to get this photo.
Our sweet Talea, she was determined she was going to go for a ride on Papa's four wheeler, so the rule is any of the kids have to wear helmets, so if you look closer she has a helmet over her hat. Cute!
Jennifer having some girlie time with Talea, Jennifer has three boys and wants a girl really bad, so when she gets around her two nieces she spoils them to pieces.
These Trojan soldiers were a hit with my grandsons, you would of thought I found a gold mine. Honestly I did not really know what I had found at a garage sale this last summer. anyway this grandma made some brownie points with these boys.
My bribe to get the family photo and all the grandchildren together for a photo was fresh baked cookies. I think it worked.
The extended Muma family. This was a milestone to get everyone in one photo. Yahoo.

Adventures to Bob's Red Mill for The Farm Girls

2010-12-21T08:27:00.000-08:00

The Farm Girls were off to adventure to Bob's Red Mill in Portland, Oregon to explore and discover what they all had for us to take home and create with. We chose to have lunch there, which proved to be very filling, sticking to your ribs kind of filling, that is. Then we were off to The Pendleton Woolen Mill store to see what cool treasures we might find.
Katy, Erin, and Robin taking in all the products, what a great Candy store for healthy eating.
These Millstones were amazing, all I could think of was the history and all the grain it has ground.
It was fun to read the history of French Millstones. I think if you click on the photo you might be able to read it for yourself.
This view of the store is from the up stairs area, as I look this over, the feel of the store just reminds me of the OLD Nature's store that was off of the Macadam area in Portland, when I was going to college in 1969. I loved going to Natures back in the day. I guess you would call me a nature girl at heart.
Love this banner, "Flax" just a healthy grain for you.
Steel cut oats, boy am I hooked on this morning ritual. Yummy!!! We had a mid morning lunch at Bob's. We shared our journal pages and our treasures we had made. Then we were off to the Pendleton Woolen Mill.
Katy, myself, Robin, and Erin in front of the Pendleton Woolen Mill sign, a sweet worker there suggested that we do that, so here we are.
Katy has a plan here, she is getting scraps of wool strips for her mom-in-law, herself and niece so that they can each make their own rag rug. How fun is that?
Love these spools of colored thread, I find myself picking these up at garage sales and flea markets. I would guess I have weakness for textiles.

Montana in The Fall

2010-11-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

Our fall adventure to Montana was to adventure in to the wilderness, to hike in the Glacier Park area with Heather and her family. The weather was perfect for hiking, the scene was beautiful as you can see.
Roger and I in this beautiful country side of the Montana mountains.
I think Talea had the best seat on this hike, don't you?
As we start our hike, I am poised and ready with a walking stick with bells on it to ward off the BEARS, um would that really work? We have been told to make lots of noise when walking on the trails so you don't scare a bear. I think I would be so scared I would freeze in my steps.
Papa Roger and Titus working their way up the steep incline, you notice they both have walking sticks.
Titus learned you could holler and receive an echo from the mountain ridges, oh how much fun we all had listening to our voices echo back.
Heather and Talea, she is such a "ham"!
Great photo opportunity presented it self to us, as there was a couple picnicking down the way whom offered to get a group shot of us all.
Farmer's Markets are always a great adventure for me, perhaps it brings out the farm girl in me.
Whitefish Farmers Market is a must, the setting is a great back ground, with"Big Mountain" in the back ground along with the Burlington Northern Train station.
It has become a tradition with Heather and I to do some canning in the fall. I love how my girls love to carry on this tradition.
Roger and Jason could not wait to get their hands on these fresh sliced peaches. You can see by the look on their faces that they were pretty satiated. Huh?
Heather was pretty proud of her stocking up of home canned peaches for the winter.
A bonus surprise for me, was a call from a client wanting some Trauma Balm, that I make for sore muscles, she shared that she was headed to Whitefish, Montana to run in a half marathon, luck would have it, it was going to be the same time we were going to be in the area. So Two-Bear Marathon here we come.
I did not know that Lila was going to push her mom across the finishing line. You can see by the smile on her mom's face how proud she was. With much sadness and gratefulness, as I write this Lila's mom has since past away. Lila sharing with me that I was the only one that captured her pushing her mom across that finishing line, that she was so grateful to me for taking that photo. Lila thank you for sharing your mom with me.
Lila and I sharing the end to her half marathon race.
My son-in-law in the green is a goalie for an adult soccer team, we were fortunate enough to get to watch him play in a major tournament. Go Jason!
One of my most favorite Quilt shops is Back Door Quilt Shop in Whitefish, a must to go to when I am in the area.
Um our next little quilter, a grandma could only wish. Talea was fascinated with these spools of thread, of course touching was important.
The finishing touches to this quilt, sewing the binding down. Yahoo! As I write this post I have started a new quilt, a flannel log cabin in creams and plums.
Talea and Papa really bonded this trip, more so that grandma had to play second fiddle this visit. All I could say was " wait until I come over in the winter, by myself".
The incredible Montana sky. Enjoy!