Gathering Goodies

Holy Week Suggestions from NCRegister

2011-03-17T21:46:00.000-05:00

I found this on the National Catholic Register and thought it worth passing along on my blog...you can find the article here:

Making the Most of Holy Week

The liturgies of the Church throughout Holy Week are the preeminent way to take advantage of the opportunity the Church gives us

Perhaps Lent 2007 went well for us, a profound time of confronting weaknesses out of love for the Lord. Or maybe it went rather poorly, and in fact was kind of forgotten in all the busyness of life. Either way, there is still time to take advantage of the opportunity the Church gives us to grow closer to Christ.

The liturgies of the Church throughout Holy Week are the preeminent way to do so. They can provide the “meat” of Holy Week’s spiritual experience. Here are some ways to enhance what we’ll be hearing.

Palm Sunday

“Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, or ‘Passion Sunday,’ which unites the royal splendor of Christ with the proclamation of his passion,” says the Vatican’s Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy (No. 138). “Palms and olive branches are kept in the home as a witness to faith in Jesus Christ, the messianic King, and in his paschal victory.”

• Palm basket. One nice custom is to weave those palms into a basket — on Easter Sunday it will hold painted eggs for your table’s centerpiece.

Holy Thursday

Lent ends officially with the beginning of the Easter Triduum at the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday.

• Passover-style meal. Some like to have a special dinner that night to ease the transition to the fast and abstinence of Good Friday, a sort of modified Passover dinner: lamb, rice pilaf, a raw vegetable plate, matzo bread and haroset salad (9 tart apples, peeled and chopped, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts. 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 3 tablespoons honey, 1/3 cup sweet red wine. Mix well, serves six). Appropriate psalms for the occasion: Psalm 113, 114, 118.

Two things are important to note: This should be considered a way of introducing one’s family to the customs of Jesus’ time in a very general way, not as a Seder meal per se, since the Seder meal is an important and sacred Jewish ritual that we should not make light of. Second, in the Catholic Church, such a meal should not interfere with our availability for Holy Thursday Mass, which is far more important.

• Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament — available until midnight in many churches — is the best way to end Holy Thursday. “Because of a long historical process, whose origins are not entirely clear,” says the Directory of Popular Piety (No. 141), “the place of repose has traditionally been referred to as ‘a holy sepulcher.’ The faithful go there to venerate Jesus who was placed in a tomb following the crucifixion and in which he remained for some 40 hours.”

Good Friday

The Easter fast that many begin after Holy Thursday Mass is obligatory on Good Friday.

• Regulations for Fast and Abstinence: “Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of both fast and abstinence from meat. Fast binds all over the age of 21 and under the age of 59. On days of fast, one full meal is allowed. Two other meals sufficient to maintain strength may be taken according to each one’s needs, but together they should not equal another full meal. Eating in between meals is not permitted, but liquids, including milk and juices, are allowed. When health or ability to work would be seriously affected, the law does not oblige.”

• Church services. Mass isn’t offered on Good Friday; but a Communion service and veneration of the cross is. When possible, Catholics take a break from work between the hours of noon and 3 p.m., the time Christ spent on the cross. This is also prime time to participate in the Stations of the Cross.

• Divine Mercy Novena. Today, the special Divine Mercy novena leading up to Mercy Sunday begins. To find out how to participate, go to EWTN.com and from the menu under “Faith” choose “Devotions” then “Novenas.”

Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday is an empty time of waiting. No Mass is offered, not even a Communion service like Good Friday’s. It isn’t an official fasting day, but many Catholics eat modestly this day as we wait to celebrate the Resurrection.

• The Office of Readings offers an ancient homily called “The Lord Descends Into Hell” this day. Here is an excerpt:

“Something strange is happening — there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear.

“He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: ‘My Lord be with you all.’ Christ answered him: ‘And with your spirit.’ He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: ‘Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’”

The entire reading can be found at: catholicculture.org/docs/doc_view.cfm?recnum=6872

It’s a lovely way to prepare for Easter … the greatest feast of the Church, which we’ll write about next week.

Passion for The Passion

Hot Cross Buns

The making and eating of hot cross buns on this day of mourning is a very old tradition, dating from before 1225. The superstitions surrounding the practice aren’t helpful (like the one that causes some people to save one hot cross bun on their mantelpiece for a year’s worth of good baking), but there are some very nice legends and stories to share on this day:

Robin Redbreast
Legend has it that the robin tried to remove the bloody thorns from Christ’s head at the crucifixion. Christ’s blood fell on the bird and he has worn a red breast as a badge of honor since.

The Dogwood
An old legend has that at the time of the Crucifixion, the dogwood was comparable in size to the oak tree. Because of its firmness and strength it was selected for the cross. The crucified Jesus in his gentle pity for the sorrow and suffering of all said to it, “Because of your sorrow and pity for my sufferings, never again will the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used as a cross. Henceforth it will be slender, bent and twisted, and its blossoms will be in the form of a cross, two long and two short petals. In the center of the outer edge of each petal there will be nail prints, brown with rust and stained with red, and in the center of the flower will be a crown of thorns, and all who see this will remember.”

Freebies, Coupons and Tips

2011-02-09T08:08:00.003-06:00

Thought I would pass along a few sites and facebook pages that offer coupons and freebies. Plus some tip sites that have lots of goodies .

So here is a list of some sites you might like:

TIPNUT

...I love this site..so many free goodies..recipes, crafts, tutorials..you name it!

Mommy Savers

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

MommySavers

Coupons and Freebies Blog

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

CouponsandFreebiesMom

Freebies 4 Mom Blog

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

Freebies4Mom

Dollar Store Crafts

Above is Blog link below is facebook link

DollarStoreCrafts

And last I couldn't leave you with out a freebie of my own...here is a Valentine postcard to use with your crafts

Right click for larger image and save to your desktop to print

Here are some little cat dolls I added to my

Etsy Store...

Whoops this set of 4 Little Sister Cats Sold..but I will try and add a new set this afternoon, plus I will try and do some more little flora brooches or scrapbook addons...had some request for these.

Thoughts

Today here is a simple prayer I leave with you...simple and true...one I need to repeat often myself

" Jesus, so humble of heart, make our hearts like unto thine."

Valentine Goodies...Freebies..Thoughts!

2011-02-05T10:43:00.001-06:00

First here is a link to tipnuts Valentines Page..it is full of great items to make from various site...really neat items.

I am also posting some freebies...first is this set of Valentine Tags for you to print for personal use or to label you crafts...please do not resell graphics on any of my freebies..I still retain the copyright..

Right Click to go to larger image and say to your desktop:

Now here is a set of Valentine Hang Tags

Last one vintage valentine...This is only one image

Thoughts

Valentine's Day is about love..so here is a verse to share..simple words to live by:

"A new commandment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another."

John 13.34

Fresh and New Quilts, Patterns and Thoughts!

2011-02-03T23:29:00.001-06:00

I spent the early and I do mean early part of this morning searching lap quilts on Etsy.

I have a weakness for beautiful quilts with lots of pretty colors against a white background..they seem so clean and fresh.
Well I found some real goodies this morning and I want to share them with you..plus I ordered a pattern..hoping to try my hand at making one of these..never mind that I have never ever made a quilt. I though I would make the top and have a local lady quilt it for me.

The great thing about this pattern is what Sue, the lady who designed it, said and I took her for her word "EASY"...it has to be for me to try it.

The name of the shop on Etsy is Sweet Jane and her quilts and patterns are just wonderful!

Her shop is named after her cute little daughter Jane featured on her banner who is from China and her son is from Taiwan!

Moda has chosen to carry 9 of her patterns at all their stores... and that is no surprise as her quilts are

"fresh" and "new" as described by her customers.....I couldn't have said it better!

Now here are some of her quilts below..the first one is the pattern I ordered..isn't it lovely..makes you smile.

San Francisco Window Boxes Lap or Baby Quilt Pattern....Quick and Easy LAYER Cake or Fat Quarters Listing # 67361667 $9

Here are some more that I love from her shop......be sure to visit her shop and see all the lovely quilts and patterns. It's hard to decide which I like best.

I hope you enjoy visiting her shop as much as I did...I can't wait to get my pattern. Plus Sue is a really nice person. So hop on over and visit this quilt shop!

Make Your Own Valentine Gifts

Handmade pincushions from various found objects make great Valentine gifts.

These are easy to make out of what ever catches your fancy. As you can see in the photo below I used various items...vintage sherbet dishes, little glass slipper, a creamer and a wee teacup.

First draw a circle on the wrong side of fabric of your choice ...you will have to judge about what size your fabric circle should be each will be different.

Cut out the circle and slip stitch all around the outside edge like making a yoyo.

Place polyfill in the center of the fabric on the wrong side and draw thread to form a ball..tie knot in thread.

Next place the fabric ball into the object and hot glue it around the edge

Add embellishments such as lace, ribbon, beads whatever.

These are fun and simple to make...use your imagination. I bet you have items sitting around your house that would make a cute pincushion.

LITTLE SACHETS

Sew and stuff a simple heart after adding a hanger decorate it with various embellishments...bows, lace, trims paper graphics and you have a nice little gift...you can fill it with lavender for a sweet sachet

Make oblong sachets from scrap fabic, add a ribbon hanger and fill with lavender..these make nice drawer sachets

Simple yoyos make great gifts....Just add felt leafs and a pin or magnet.

Hope this gives you some ideas of the simple little gifts you can make. It's nice to get a special handmade gift and you won't have to spend much money.

Now last but not least....

THOUGHTS

Things are really hard for a lot of people now..families are trying to make ends meet and some have lost their jobs. My heart goes out to those of you who this has happened to..maybe it's not in your immediate family, but I am sure you know someone who has lost their job. I am adding a prayer below that I got from EWTN for finding employment. If you need other prayers or inspiration..this is a wonderful site.

If this has happened to you or your family members...remember don't give up..put your trust in the Lord.. He is always there...you just have to trust him. That's what faith is...trusting in God to lead you..

Now here is the prayer and may God Bless You!

A Prayer For Employment

EWTN

God, our Father, I turn to you seeking your divine help and guidance as I look for suitable employment.

I need your wisdom to guide my footsteps along the right path, and to lead me to find the proper things to say and do in this quest. I wish to use the gifts and talents you have given me, but I need the opportunity to do so with gainful employment.

Do not abandon me, dear Father, in this search, but rather grant me this favor I seek so that I may return to you with praise and thanksgiving for your gracious assistance.

Grant this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Bless, 0 Lord of the centuries and the millennia, the daily work by which men and women provide bread for themselves and their loved ones. We also offer to your fatherly hands the toil and sacrifices associated with work, in union with your Son Jesus Christ, who redeemed human work from the yoke of sin and restored it to its original dignity. - Pope John Paul II

Giveaway Winner...Freebie...and Thoughts

2011-02-01T16:35:00.004-06:00

First I have a winner..Joy M. Congratulations and Thank You! to all who entered...As a little gift I am posting some Valentine Tags for

you to use for your personal items and things you created..just please don't sell the graphics. Simply right click on the tag image and it will take you to a larger image which you can save to your computer to print. It won't be long before Valentines Day will be here..it is a great holiday..I remember how excited I used to be as a child when we had a party at school..we used to make cute little Valentine Envelopes or Boxes...that we decorated for our exchange of Valentines. Now that was quite a long time ago since I am 65, but I have great memories of that time. Here is the tag sheet below..it should be printed letter size 8.5x11"...hint..I usually save my printables as .tiff images they are much clearer for printing than jpeg..hope that helps.

Now for my thoughts...as you can see by my sidebar..I have dedicated this site to The Holy Infant Jesus and St. Joseph for their protection and guidance..I have dedicated all my sites to their care...some places won't allow postings of extras..but I have still dedicated them.

I am Catholic..a convert of 40 years or more..I was not raised Catholic so I missed out on a lot of the traditions..those of you who are cradle Catholics are blessed. But I have decided to post some images, prayers and other postings to honor God the Father, Jesus our Savior, The Holy Spirit, The Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and other Saints and Angels. Like I said before I am 65 and let's face it ..my journey here is nearing the end..Although the Good Lord willing I would be grateful for another 20 or 30 years..I will leave that in his hands..

But I decided to dedicate more of my postings to God's Glory and I still will have goodies to share with you....crafts, recipes and freebies..because we all need positive things to occupy our spare time and there are so many wonderful little things our there.

I don't care what faith you practice....Catholic, Christian, Jewish ....this is not just a Catholic blog only..I welcome all Christians and those of other faiths to share in this blog..even if you don't have a faith..you are still welcome here. Faith is a gift of God..pray for it.

Now here is a little image of the Sweet Infant Jesus and St.Joseph...I love this image. Think how God choose St. Joseph to be the guardian of his Son and the Blessed Virgin Mary. St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Catholic Church, families, fathers, the unborn, firefighters, for a happy death, and workers as he was a carpenter. He was believed to have died before Jesus entered his public life..thus he is the patron of a happy death because he died with the presence of Jesus and Mary..may we all be blessed like him.

His concern with the protection of Jesus and Mary made him a great protector of families and a wonderful example for fathers.

I have often thought that in God's infinite wisdom St. Joseph was taken before Jesus entered his passion because he could not protect him from his death and passion. St. Joseph of all the people who have entered heaven must have been greeted with "Well done my good and faithful servant"

Today we can invoke his petitions on our behalf before his beloved foster son Jesus who greatly loved St. Joseph his earthly father with our special needs and petitions. I recently told my son not to forget to petition Good St. Joseph for work..as many people have had slow downs or have completely lost their employment due to the economy of today..I have great faith that he will provide. Below is an ancient prayer found in 50th year of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..sometimes called the Unfailing Prayer to St. Joseph..I also posted a link here to more information on St. Joseph whose feast day is March 19th. this site Catholic On Line has lots more information if you are interested:..this is a great site. Now below is the prayer::

O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God,

I place in thee all my interests and desires.

O St. Joseph, assist me by thy powerful intercession and obtain for me all spiritual blessings through

thy foster Son, Jesus Christ Our Lord,

so that, having engaged here below thy heavenly power, I may offer thee my thanksgiving and homage.

O St. Joseph,

I never weary contemplating thee and Jesus asleep in thine arms.

I dare not approach while He reposes near thy heart.

Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me,

and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.

St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for me.

Well, I didn't mean to write a book..but I am happy for Joy M. and I love sharing my faith..May God Bless each of you and keep you and your family in his special care..til next time.

Last Chance for Teaprarty Giveaway..plus new goodies!

2011-01-31T12:52:00.000-06:00

My Teaparty Giveaway ends tonite at midnite CST so be sure and enter...it is the post right below this one..all rules are posted there.

I felt like sewing this morning so I created this tiny tote for a doll..such as Ginny, American Girl, Bleuette, Blythe. It is made of coton pink and green prints..inside is lined with green hearts..handle is of rickrack and front is accented with tiny yoyo and button trim..I also included
3 paperdolls, 2 paperdoll sheets and a group of 4 tiny notecards. You can find this in my etsy store. Gathering Goodies The little tote is appprox. 2.25x2.5" not including handles..so it is just the right size for your doll.

I also created two spring fleur pins for your tees, jackets, purse ect...they are pictured below and listed in my Etsy Store also.

And I am also relisting some vintage style travel luggage sticker sheets...these have been very popular...they are printed on 8.5x11' quality glossy sticker paper which is commercial wt. You simply cut out and peel off back to accent your various projects. Below are a couple of samples that are listed in my Etsy store

Well I got to get to work...orders need filling and my kitchen is covered with all my sewing notions and fabric everywhere. Plus I am making chicken and noodles for tonite.. Please don't forget to enter my contest before it ends tonite.. And please join me on my facebook page by clicking on the button in the side column. Thanks and have a good day!

Dolly Teaparty Giveaway ends Jan.31st.

2011-01-24T09:38:00.001-06:00

Ok..finally got some goodies gathered for a Jan. 31st. Teaparty Giveaway

First will be this set of 3 Little Dolly Dingles Doll ready for a teaparty....made of muslin with flora print backs..appros. size 5.5"

Next is this set of teacup pins...10 in all great party favors...approx. size 1 to 2" tall

Set of 8 Teacup Tags...approx. size 3.5x3.5" with matching ribbon ties..not all ivory as shown

A laminated sheet of Dolly Dingle Paperdolls approx. size 9x6.5"

3 Little Dolly Threadkeepers great for keeping lace, yarn etc...approx. 4.5" tall these are laminated

And last a $10 Gift Certificate to my Etsy Store Gathering Goodies

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment and become a follower of my blog..if you are already a follower..simply leave a comment.

If you don't have a blog..be sure and leave an email address.

And last here is a freebie I promise to add...This is an 8.5x11" letter size design...simply click on the image to enlarge it then right click to save to your computer.

You may print as many as you like for personal use only..please do not sell graphics in any form..you may use the tags you print to accent your handmade items..please give credit to GatheringGoodies for tags..Thanks so much!

Have a great day and be sure to check back often!

Prayer Request US "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion 5th Marines

2011-01-23T15:43:00.001-06:00

I am posting this as a prayer request from my daughterinlaw on facebook..she is passing this on as a request from her friend

"At the request of a Facebook Friend- we are asking everyone to say a prayer for the US "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion 5th Marines & their families.. They are fighting it out in Afganistan and have lost 9 Marines in 4 days.. Please re-post this.. It would be nice to see it on everyone's page!! even if it's only for an hour, come on guys... SHOW YOUR SUPPORT. God bless our troops and their families!

This is true...here is the link on snopes and there is more information about these troops..please read and then pray everyday for them
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/prayer/darkhorse.asp

So please pray for these brave souls and their familes...and for those who have already given their all..

God Bless our Troops and hold them in the palm of your hand

Combined My Etsy Shops into one GatheringGoodies

2011-01-23T11:14:00.000-06:00

After having two shops on Etsy I decided to delete my PaperDollGatherings Shop and only have one GatheringGoodies.
By moving my items to GatheringGoodies..it saves me so much time..when I had two shops I had to sign in and out to work on my shops or answers questions conv. to me. So I am hoping this will save time and money....I love Etsy....although I don't see as much as thur my Ebay Shop..it is a lot more fun. I am having a sale at both Etsy and Ebay..5% off until Jan 31st.

I am also working on a facebook fan page GatheringGoodies...I have to admit..I don't know alot about facebook fan pages..they are very confusing and I don't know if anyone has even seen my page. I would appreciate you visiting my facebook page...leave a comment..I will be updating it and making new listings available. I would love to have you become a follower.

Besides working on my stores and filling orders...that's about all I have accomplished these past few months...I guess I have cabin fever because when it's cold I don't like to get out..although I do love Fall and Winter...the cold weather keeps me inside alot.

Have turned to making Valentine and Easter items...following the holidays. I do love those old graphics from these two holidays...especially the children...they are so cute.

I have also pulled out some crochet yarn and a book teaching you how to create crocheted items...I used to dabble in crochet, but I had forgot everything but chaining..so I had to refresh my memory..I have to have something to do while watching tv..I love making my little mini dolls and stuffing and stitching them while I watch TV . It is very relaxing.

Well, I am off to buy a new monitor..my went out last nite..I thought it was my computer..thank goodness it was only my monitor..less expensive...but I will be back after I get it set up and will bring you some new goodies...freebie...a new giveaway..Thanks for visiting..be sure to check back later today .

Fall Leaves and New Gatherings

2010-11-19T07:12:00.000-06:00

I took a walk around the pasture last week..really I did it several days in a row..I am trying to get my exercise. I figured if I walked the back pasture and the side pasture that would be a pretty good walk...I tried to make at least 3 rounds sometimes more.

I took some photos to share with you....first is my comfy shoes..not much on looks but they are really nice for walking. They are airwalk..the same folks that make those clogs like rubber shoes from Payless...not very expensive but easy on the feet which at my age is one of my biggest complaints. I usually buy my tennis shoes in the boys or mens department...they seem to feet my feet better.

Here are some photos of the back pasture...I look forward to this time of the year..it is my favorite. We have had very little rain and I was worried it would not be a pretty fall, but we did get some beautiful colors..I think it is going to peak this week.

This photo below is all the leafs I collected from the various trees...some of the trees are older than our house most likely 150 to 175 years old..we have lots of very old massive oaks, 3 walnuts, 1 pecan in the back yard and various other trees including a really massive sweet gum tree which my husband doesn't like because of all the gum balls it drops. But this tree is one of my favorites...it is so old that a chain is embedded in it..seems it grew around this..photo is below.

Now I cannot leave out the oaks..they remind me of gracious ladies...they are massive and stand at the front of our drive way..I think the original drive went between these trees.

I made some screen savers off some of these photos so that I can enjoy them through out the year. I really love our home..it's old about 120 years old and it is not fancy but it is comfy...kind of like your grandmothers home. The Photo below is a side view of our home. My husband is going to retire hopefully next year..he is well pass 65...we are praying to get to stay here during our remaining years. But who knows what our future will be with all that is going on in our country today..I feel very blessed to have this old farmhouse as our home..it has been here many years and hopefully it will be here many more. I love old houses and vintage items...that is why I love this old home....it used to stand on 120 acres but we only have 5 now...the old barn above was part of the original tract..it belongs to a neighbor...I wish the cows had been up by the house when I took the photos..they are our closest neighbors.

Hope I haven't bored you...but I love fall and wanted to share some of the colors with your.

Just listed some new cloth dollies in my new shop PaperDoll Gathering on Etsy...I really enjoy making these..two of the newer ones are made from vintage paperdolls.

Click Here To Buy

Click Here To View Sale

Click Here to View For Sale

Hope to be back soon...I am having an early Thanksgiving dinner for some of my kids and grandkids Sat. So I need to get busy...my turkey needs to be thawed and ready for the oven tonite. I usually cook my turnkey during the previous nite and that way he is ready by noon. We are having dressing..not homemade..I haven't made dressing in several years. But this dressing that is frozen is southern cornbread dressing and it is good. We are going to have a simple meal..sweet potatoes with marshmallow topping, homemade green beans, dressing, cranberry sauce, giblet gravy, Veg dip with fresh veggies, a cheese ball, black and green olives, pumpkin pie, cake and lots of turkey.
Hope you all have a great Thanksgiving...we have lots of blessings of which to be thankful...I am thankful for family and extended family and friends. And for this country and for the millions of people who share the same values and beliefs that this country was built on...as shown by this last election..I still have hope that we can get this country back on the right path...I have faith in God and my fellow Americans that we can turn the tide and that America once more will be

"The land of the free and the home of the brave"

God bless each and everyone and God Bless America!

New Etsy Shop Paper Doll Gatherings just opened

2010-11-06T09:14:00.001-05:00

Just open a new Etsy Shop..... Paper Doll Gatherings I still have my other etsy shop

Gathering Goodies What I decided to do is to put all my doll items such as doll pin sets, doll favors, handmade dolls, doll stickers, doll transfers etc into the Paper Doll Gathering Shop...and on my Gathering Goodies Shop...I have listed my retro and vintage items such as tags, iron-ons, sticker sheets etc.

That makes it easier to find items plus it gives me more sections...Etsy is becoming a good place for me...I've have been on Ebay for years... Gathering Goodies and speaking of my ebay store..I now have a 5% off sale going on for the next 7 days.....so please check out my items to save you on postage..my ebay store offers free postage with the purchase of $20 or more...but you must first wait for adjusted invoice before paying so that all items may be paid thur paypal with one payment.

Before I go here are a couple Christmas Designs from vintage post cards that you might like to use in your upcoming Christmas Decorating...a Stocking and a tag..they are for personal use only..Thanks and enjoy this lovely fall weather...until I post again..God Bless each and eveyone!

Thanksgiving Freebies

2010-10-31T15:34:00.002-05:00

Here are some Thanksgiving vintage style clipart from old postcards..just right clip and save to your computer to use for making projects: I am always looking for ways to save money and these images can be used to create great decorations for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Right click on the image below...that will take you to a larger image that you can save and print out place cards for your Thanksgiving Dinner..there are 8 to a sheet..they are sized to print on 8.5x11" cardstock. I use the 110lb kind that you can find at any walmart. Simply print, cutout, write your guest name below "Happy Thanksgiving" and place in the center of each dinner plate....All images are copyright by me and are not to be used in any way for profit they are personal use only.

Or go to Crate and Barrel and buy a set for $8.95, if you don't like making your own items...they are cute but printing your own will save you some money.

To create these cute Thanksgiving Placecards and Napkin rings to the link below at

Vintage Image Crafts.com

to find images and instructions for these two items...this site also has tons of very cute and free printables.

Well that's about it for now...I'll be back with more items...be sure and chech out my Etsy Store...I have listed some Wee Samta Ornies

A Halloween Trio

This set is a real bargain on sale...buy it and save it for next year.

Here is another Santa..he is larger and handpainted.

Handmade Santa

Lots more listed including sticker sheets for Christmas and some retro kitchen sticker sheets, santa tags, iron-on transfer sheets..so drop by and take a peek.

Thanks and happy crafting.

What's Wrong With This Picture?

2010-10-31T06:28:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to add to my previous post about upcoming elections. Just heard on the news this morning that the Justice Dept is sending election observers to AZ. to make sure illegals are allowed to vote...but refuses to act on voter intimidation of black panthers in the last election...what is wrong in America!

Is this the way our country should be going...that is why this election is so important and your vote is so important...we are on the wrong track and need to get our country back to it's basic values.

I am reminded that AZ was in the report to the UN that this adm. filed on human rights....what have we come to...and what will our country look like in 5 to 10 years if people don't wake up and vote.

Looks like what Washington warned us about in his farewell address has come upon us.

Halloween, Voting, Fall, New Widget, Blessings

2010-10-30T19:19:00.000-05:00

Hello...now it is Halloween..some are trick or treating tonite and some tomorrow nite...but it is a great holiday for kids...look on the bright side...not the dark. I have fond memories of my childhood on trick or treating..We did not have store bought costumes..we made our own...but we did not feel shorted in any way what so ever..it was fun. We went all over our neighborhoods..without our parents...times were different way back then..it was a safer time for children then...not like today or even when my kids were young.

We got tons of candy and it was so exciting we always looked forward to it...it was not in anyway connected with devil worship or the darkside..it was a time for dressing up, laughing, going house to house with your friends...the cool nite air right at sundown..we couldn't wait to head out and after all our rounds we had a hugh bag of goodies to go thur and enjoy..it is such a sad reflection to compare back then with today...how things have changed.

But I hope your little ones enjoy this halloween as a happy time..some will go to harvest parties at churches that created a gathering for little ones...some will go thur their own neighborhood with parents in tow...but however you celebrate this fall holiday..enjoy it. I love this time of the year,,.last week some of my kids and grandkids visited and they created jol for my porch..we decorated the porch with lights, fall leaves and some little signs..I enjoy the lights at nite..tonite I will light the pumpkins, but we won't have any little visitors..although I bought some candy today...we live in the country on a highway and most parents take their children thur neighborhoods in town..I don't blame them...it can be very dangerous backing in and out of driveways with all the little Ghost and Goblins eager to collect candy. So be careful and make sure your little ones enjoy the nite and are safe. Remember you are making memories for their tomorrows and this day shall not come this way again.

If you will look to your right I have a new widget...it is a sad but true counter of the number of babies aborted since you started viewing my site..I found it on a friend's site from Africa...I felt I should have one on my site..we have to defend the most helpless among us...one day we will be asked what we did for the least of our brothers...this is the least we can do. If you would like one for your blog or site..click the link at the bottom and it will take you to a site that has the code.

And one more reminder...don't forget to vote..it is one of the most important and precious rights we have in the United States of America today....many, many people have gave their all...their very life for your right to vote...be accountable and honor their great sacrifice...by voting..and vote for what you know is right..we are at a critical time in our country...too many things have changed and not for the better..our way of life as Americans is at risk..our freedom, our beliefs, our traditions, our liberties are being eroded everyday..it is time to stand up and take our country back...VOTE.

REMEMBER::
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

Edmund Burke (1729 - 1797)

We are at a critical point in our history...you will be part of making history...now is the time for all to be accountable for the future of our country....for your children's future.

Before you go vote..read George Washingtons Farewell Address

This wise man led our country at it's very creation..he had wise words which apply to us today...read his farewell advise concerning the maintenance of the division of powers created by our Constitution..which is important for the perseverance of our Freedom and Liberties....the importance of payment of national debt...the very danger it imposes on us as a nation and the perils it creates as a threat to our very freedoms and survival as a free nation. And last but not least his advise on the paramount importance of religion and morality as the most efficacious means to maintain our country...

"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men & citizens. The mere Politican, equally with the pious man ought to respect & to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private & public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the Oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure--reason & experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

'Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of Free Government. Who that is a sincere friend to it, can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric"
George Washington United States 19th September 1796

Well from Halloween to Washington...got kind of windy tonite..but I firmly believe every word and I can not sit silently by without expressing what I believe. Our children's and grandchildren's future is at stake.

So enjoy the holiday, enjoy your kids, enjoy the fall and vote!

Halloween and Fall Here ...War Eagle Craft Fair...and Christmas is coming

2010-10-14T06:16:00.000-05:00

Halloween and fall are here..even though it is very dry down here..it's nice to see the leaves. If we could get just a little rain..that might make the fall leaves more colorful..everythng is so dry.

I must admit..I have not put one Halloween or Fall decoration up..except some window clings..I have got to do that next week because some of my grandkids are coming and I love this time of year..I have been busy and lazy too!

I have been making and selling decorations in my stores but not made any for myself...what's that saying.."the shoemaker's kids have no shoes"

But here is a little recipe to make some ornies if you have one of those little Halloween trees..I used to sell these and they turned out so cute and smelled so good. I don't have photos of the bats, cats and ghosts that I also made, but here are some little JOLs.

First here is a basic recipe for dough ornies...you can find lots more on line:

½ cup salt
1 cup flour
½ cup water

In a small pan heat salt and water to melt salt...this will keep your dough from being grainy.
Then mix flour, salt and water mixture in bowl and knead til dough is soft and workable.
On a sheet of wax paper roll dough out to about 1/8 to 1/4" thickness...cut dough with a round
cookie cutter or biscuit cutter in the size you wish your ornies to be. Poke a hole in the ornie for hanger.
Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean up and bake ornies for about an hour
in 200 degree oven...check often to see when they are dry.
After they are cooled..paint with orange acrylic paint...now here is the fun part...with ivory, black and gold acrylic paints start making their little faces..I love doing this..just use your imagination.
After they are completely dry...dip them twice in melted parafin wax with a scented oil added to it for a wonderful aroma..only dip them twice letting the dry between dippings.
You can find several ways to melt your parafin wax on the web...but be very careful and never leave it unattended...I used several drops of scent oil to give it a great scent.
I also fashioned a piece of wire about 6" long into a "V" shape to hang my ornies on for dipping.

Now I know Halloween is not here yet and I don't want to rush fall because I love this time of the year, but in my shops on Ebay and Etsy..I have to look ahead just a little and I am now offering Christmas items..I started by creating some vintage inspired Christmas Tags...I only have a few now...hope to get some listed this week or next..here are some of the new Tags..these are approx. 5" tall and are printed on brown Kraft cardstock with plain white twine hangers:

If you are interested in any of these ornies..you can drop by my Etsy Shop or just send me an email and I can send you the information on how to purchase these..they are $3.50 for a set of 5 and they are packaged in a clear cello bag and mailed in a rigid photo mailer....I will be happy to combine shipping for you to save money..I also offer free shipping on orders of $20 or more via first class mail or priority when wt. requires...free shipping only applies to my blog orders.

Ok..hope to post again shortly with some more goodies..I am going to War Eagle Craft fair this weekend with my two sisters..so I won't be around from Fri. til late Sunday nite....I am really excited...besides the craft fair at War Eagle mill which is one of the largest in the nation..we are staying in Eureak Springs..a wonderful little historic town nestled in the Ozark mountains with tons of shops and lots of old victorian houses. I love to ride the trolley and visit the shops ...it is called the ltttle Switzerland of the Ozarks because it is built in the mountains..St. Elizabeths Catholic Church is a beautiful church sitting right below the famous Crescent Hotel..you enter via the bell tower.. I have attended Mass on previous occassions and it is a beautiful church. Hope to bring back some photos.

Til then..you all have a wonderful day and may God Bless each and everyone of you and your families.

Welcome Fall

2010-09-30T06:12:00.002-05:00

Hello...been gone for the summer, but now that Fall is here hope to get on here more.

I have been busy working on my stores at Etsy and Ebay...here are some of my new tags.

Here are some of my new Halloween

Grain Sack Pillows, Transfers, Doll Tags and YoYo Pin Giveaway

2010-04-28T07:02:00.001-05:00

Since Grain Sack Pillows are so popular and vintage grain sacks are so expensive..plus the pillows created from them..I decided to create some of my own...since I don't have deep pockets and I wanted some of these pretty pillows.

First I created some mini pillows as shown below...I made some that said

"sachet" and filled these with poly fill and lavender buds for a nice little

sachet.

Then I created some mini pillow sets with words...this set is "Flour, Sugar, Coffee" and the set below that was "Faith, Hope, Love" both of these sets

came out approx. 5x6" perfect size for boxes, bowls, baskets ect.

Next I created a design for a larger accent size pillow..These came out approx. 8x10" The 'DISH TOWEL" Pillow is listed in my Ebay Store for

for $8 postage is free.

Then I created some iron on heat transfers so that you can create your own pillows...I have two different sets..the first is a mini set that you can make pillows approx. 6x5"..."Sugar, Flour, Coffee" and the second set makes pillows approx. 8x10" "SALT, FLOUR, SUGAR". These are currently on sale in my Ebay Store "Gathering Goodies"

I am hoping to add additional transfers.."Bon Appetit" and some with plain stripes no wording..I would be happy to hear suggestions for new pillows...any suggestions for new wording would be appreciated.

I also added some new tags...some dolly dingle tags..and some new vintage stye paper doll tags...the last set is laminated.

My daughter Mandy...is having a giveaway on her blog "fweetmom" for a very cute Yoyo Pin...this would make a great accent to your summer shirts or a cute addition to any tote or purse. Be sure to visit her blog..simply sign up to follow and when she gets 25 new follwers she will announce the winner..I know it is hard to get started in blogging and attracting new followers..so please visit her blog..she has some really cute items and as a mother of three sweet girls..she is always coming up with new ideas. Here is a link to her blog

"fweetmom"

I thank you for viewing and I am always interested in your suggestions and comments......be sure to check back soon as I hope to be offering some new freebies and a new giveaway. My 10% off sale will be going on in my Ebay Store until May 9th..so take advantage of the savings...Thanks!

A Modge Podge of Goodies Plus Freebie Spring Tag

2010-04-07T10:10:00.006-05:00

I have a few things to share with you today..kind of a modge podge of items..but they are really neat

First is this tutorial I found yesterday from a really neat blog

Amazing Mae

It is a very nice tutorial on making an eyeglass case and it is so cute. Just click on the link above to go to the tutorial She also has an Etsy shop where she sells the cutes little Soldered Glass Charm Pendants plus PDF pattern downloads that she creates. Her shop on Etsy is called

May & Mae

so be sure to visit both sites.

Another tutorial, sorry no photos is from

J.Caroline Creative!

This is a great tutorial for making your own pillowcases and it is a very simple, easy to use tutorial..very well written with photos...this is a great little jewel to keep for future reference..you can create so many nice pillowcases with this tutorial..especially with all the wonderful fabrics that are out there today...This site also sells ribbons by the roll that are so beautiful.

This is a great idea from

Whipup.net

A tutorial on how to make a mason jar pincushion sewing kit..this site has tons of great ideas.

I just listed some new tags..in my Etsy Store some are digital downloads and some are precut printed.

Here are some of the new designs..I created several for Vendor Tags..I have a booth at a really neat flea market and I use these to label my items..(hint on the digital downloads you can add your name and vendor number..if you have a paint program.)

Here are some of the precut printed tags

Here is my new design in digital labels which are sent via email for you to save and print on your own computer..you can print these on cardstock or adhesive backed paper to make them stickable.

This is a new spring design..hope to add more later this week.

I also have some various Babushka design items in my Etsy store ..such as a sachet doll, Pillow, Tags, & Pins

Plus I created some new Lavender Sacks and posted the trio in my ebay store

Gathering Goodies

And last I have made a little Sewing Tag for you to print to accent some of your creative products.

Simply click on tag to go to larger image and save to your desktop to print tags ...design is not to be sold in any form..it is intended for making tags for your personal use or to tag items you make.

Hope you have a great day..Thanks for viewing and please leave a comment..I enjoy reading your post.

Giveaways, New Shops and Blessings

2010-04-05T07:12:00.004-05:00

Good Morning got lots of Goodies to share...first my daughter Jenny who is a graphics designer..opened a new shop on Etsy where she is featurng digital paper pack downloads for all your scrapbooking needs such as the pack below

which is named

-- Summer Sweetness Digital Paper Pack --

Fresh, light, and full of summer, this paperpack was inspired by beautiful pink and red watermelon tones with an elegant black solid to complement. The papers are are lightly textured in canvas and have subtle distressing effects.

They are 12"x12" 300 dpi JPG files deliverd with in 24 hours.

So please hop over and take a look at these very trendy designs.

Taylor Nicole Designs

I am so proud of Jenny as well as all my other kids..you may remember Mandy one of my other daughters has a shop where she sells handmade goodies

"fweets mom"

I am really blessed with my children and grandchildren...I have 6 grown children with 15 grandkids...I am very proud of all of them.

Very seldom do we all get together at the same time...but they are all great people..my three sons are so good about helping us..we have two electrians and an aircondition manager..so you can guess we don't have to worry about anything being fixed.

I also have another daughter who is an RN who has been a real lifesaver for us...especially helping with my husband's medical needs.

Not to forget the other sons and daughters who came into our family by marriage..we have been blessed.

I also wanted to share a photo of Ariel one of our grandaughters who was baptised Easter Sunday..I am so happy for her and her parents Jason and Bridget...it was a very beautiful service with a delicious meal afterwards in their fellowship hall...they just finished their new church. It is such a beautiful setting I wished I had photos of their new church..my son Jason helped build it and Bridget is helping organize thier dedication ceremony

Here is the only photo I got..but she is so pretty...sorry Ariel I did not get your beautiful little Easter hat..

Isn't she beautiful..I don't know how all my children and grandchildren are so beautiful..it certainly did not come from me..

I also wanted to share a great giveaway with you..

the Creative place

Be sure to go over and enter..you get your choice of two different wonderful

gifts...it ends..Tues. morning April 6th. Great Giveaway!

Hop over to this blog to visit her new shop and enter a great giveaway!

Clover Cottage

She is opening a new blog shop and having a giveaway ending

Wednesday 14th April all you have to do is leave a comment on her blog or become a follower of her new shop.

Shabby Polka Dots

She describes it as

"A little shop of my makes, finds, and lots of other pretty things. Do come in, and have a browse!"

And she is so right..so many cute and pretty items..I wish her the best.

One last thing before I go...here is another photo

"From My Kitchen Window"

Easter sunrise..notice the cross in the sky left my planes...so timely.

I'll be back later and bring you some new goodies....

Thank you Lord for this beautiful sunrise and all the other blessings you send us....Thank you!

Happy Easter, Babushka Doll Tags and Pins NEW

2010-04-04T06:45:00.003-05:00

Good morning..and Happy Easter to everyone. It is going to be a beautiful day here..hope it is very nice where you are.

I have created some new items..they are on ebay and etsy.

First are some new pins...Little Babushka Doll Pins ...They come 10 to package and make great favors for teaparties or doll clubs.

Next is a set of 8 Tags..they are also listed in both shops or

you can email me to purchase either of these here.

I really like doing thses in the bright sprng colors..

Happy Easter..Have a wonderful day.

Easter Triduum Holy Week

2010-04-02T12:55:00.001-05:00

I have decided to post about the Easter Triduum or by linking to some site that are far more informative than myself...in fact after being a convert for many, many years..I am just learning some of the facts and traditions of my faith..which I must admit does not speak highly of myself..but I have found it very inspiring and has really helped me greatly during the season of lent which is now approaching the end.

I hope these will be a source of inspiration and faith to you also...after this post I will not post again until after the celebration of Easter. I have decided not to post about my interest in crafting until then.

Easter Triduum

From Catholic Culture.org

The Easter Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper, is continued through Good Friday with the celebration of the Passion of the Lord and Holy Saturday, reaches its summit in the Easter Vigil, and concludes with Vespers of Easter Sunday.

This time is called "the triduum of the crucified, buried and risen"; it is also called the "Easter Triduum" because during it is celebrated the Paschal Mystery, that is, the passing of the Lord from this world to his Father. The Church by the celebration of this mystery, through liturgical signs and sacramentals, is united to Christ her Spouse in intimate communion. — Paschales Solemnitatis

Holy Thursday

Every year, the Church celebrates the great mysteries of the redemption of mankind in the "most sacred triduum of the crucifixion, burial and resurrection". The Sacred Triduum extends from the Mass of the Lord's Supper to Vespers on Easter Sunday and is celebrated "in intimate communion with Christ her Spouse". — Directory on Popular Piety

Good Friday

"It is accomplished; and bowing His head He gave up His spirit."

In the evening my church is having the Stations of the Cross...you can also read them on line by clicking link below...thanks to Catholic Culture.org...a wonderful site full of so much information.

Stations of the Cross

Also it is on Good Friday preferably at 3:00 in the afternoon that

The Divine Mercy Novena

we begin...leading up to Devine Mercy Sunday which is

the Sunday after Easter Sunday.

A novena is 9 days of prayers

EWTN

best explains it here:

"Background of the Divine Mercy Devotion"

"From the diary of a young Polish nun, a special devotion began spreading throughout the world in the 1930s. The message is nothing new, but is a reminder of what the Church has always taught through scripture and tradition:that God is merciful and forgiving and that we, too, must show mercy and forgiveness. But in the Divine Mercy devotion, the message takes on a powerful new focus, calling people to a deeper understanding that God’s love is unlimited and available to everyone — especially thegreatest sinners.

The message and devotion to Jesus as The Divine Mercy is based on the writings of
Saint Faustina Kowalska, an uneducated Polish nun who, in obedience to her spiritual director, wrote a diary of about 600 pages recording the revelations she received about God’s mercy. Even before her death in 1938, the devotion to The Divine Mercy had begun to spread."

Catholic Culture.org also has information about

The Devine Mercy Sunday

Saint Faustina.com

Has this coloring picture..to download for your children to color.

Holy Saturday

Once again from Catholic Culture.org...I cannot say enough about this site.

"On Holy Saturday the Church waits at the Lord's tomb, meditating on His suffering and death. The altar is left bare, and the sacrifice of the Mass is not celebrated.

Only after the solemn vigil during the night, held in anticipation of the resurrection, does the Easter celebration begin, with a spirit of joy that overflows into the following period of fifty days. "

I wish everyone has a Blessed Easter.

I will be posting after Easter about more crafts...thank you for visiting these post about Easter.

May God Bless You and Your Family.

New Sachet Dolls

2010-04-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

Just listed some new Sachet Dolls in my Ebay store

Gathering Goodies

Here is the first set...contains 4 Dolls

Second set contains 5 dolls

Plus I am designing some Lavender Babushka Sachet Dolls

I am still working on my designs but I do have one listed on

my Etsy Store Gathering Goodies. This is a little larger approx. 6" tall

The back is pink and green polka dot fabric

I will be adding a set of Babushka Doll Tags this evening.

Thanks so much..I am running a little behind on posting for Holy Week...I will try and get that posted tonite.

Have a good day..Thanks!

Doll Sachets and Large Lot Auction plus 15% off SALE

2010-03-31T00:43:00.006-05:00

Just a quick note to show some Doll Sachets I have listed on Ebay and Etsy.

One more note...I have a 15% off sale going in my Ebay Store til the 9th. April...plus if you purchase $20 or more you get free shipping..but you must wait for combined invoice before paying...this is very important..Thanks

First here are two Dolly Dingle Lavender Sachet Dolls Sets that I have listed in my Ebay Store...Gathering Goodies

Whoops booth are sold..but I will try and list another set on ebay tonite...the one on Etsy is still there

Then in my Etsy Shop Gatherig Goodies..I have listed another set

I also have listed an auction on ebay here for a large lot of

Easter Goodies.

Just a little update...I have to restock my booth tomorrow, but will be back to post another Holy Week post for Wed.

I hope you are having a good week...and please don't forget to pray for our country...prayer makes a difference.

Tuesday Of Holy Week...A Gift

2010-03-30T08:12:00.001-05:00

As I was wondering what I could post today in regard to Holy Week..I looked out my kitchen window as the sun was just starting to rise...at first the sky was empty but a soft glow of pink filled the sky..the sun was not yet to be seen. Then suddenly the sun appeared and I thought what a beautiful picture this would be..so I got my camera...went to the porch and took several photos..what I noticed when I was taking the photos was a cross that appeared from the sun...

I don't have to worry about what to post..the Good Lord supplied my needs with this beautiful sunrise..what more could I add.

Thank you Lord for letting the sun rise on this new day...

thank you for letting us have this new day...

thank you for taking our place on the cross.

May we all pause and remember what Easter is all about.

Here is the photo...I will post some Easter Craft links later today...I don't want to take away from the beautiful gift that was sent my way this morning.

Thanks!

Holy Week

2010-03-29T08:40:00.002-05:00

We adore Thee, O Christ, and we praise Thee.

Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

I am posting today and this week about Holy Week...I hope to highlight some things that will inspire you and some post for mothers of young children to help them share their faith with their children. I will also include links for all ages..even oldies like myself to help us appreciate the importance of this week for all Christians.

Instead of focusing on everyday crafting this week..I plan to focus on the events of this week as related to Our Lord's Passion and Resurrection at Easter.

I will post some links for activities for children and all ages...personally..I find that sometimes the simple ways of children may also be the best way for us to follow Our Lord.

But before I get to the links...

Here are today's Mass Readings...You can find them here:

EWTN

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7

Psalm: Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14

Gospel: John 12:1-11

Psalms 27: 13 - 14

13 I believe that I shall see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living!

14 Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the LORD! ------------------------------------------------------------------------

Psalms 27: 13 - 14

First link relates to our blessed palms from Mass Palm Sunday: This link my daughter sent to me..it is a good link to make palm frond crosses...I was happy to get this because I have been wanting to learn to do this.

Here is the link to her site SILVERKEYS.WRITES

In this photo notice the embroidery of the symbols Chi Rho which stands for the first two letters in the Greek spelling of the word “Christ.” Very talented lady and I thank her very much for this tutorial:

Now here are some links for Catholic Mothers for Stations of the Cross design for children..this one you can view on line or download as a pdf file..I did that and it is a very simple way of the cross..made for children but I think adults will find this very interesting also: It is from Loyola Press and it may be found here LOYOLA PRESS

And for adults I found this site Fisheaters.com with a very inspiring Way of the Cross with the

"Stabat Mater -- a hymn known since at least 1388 A.D. Now my computer has my Dish Network radio hooked up on it so that I can listen to Old Time radio shows in the house..therefore I cannot hear this beautiful hymn..but I am going to burn it on a CD to play in my car.

I am ashamed to say... I am a convert for many years and this was the first time I heard this hymn sung at Stations of the Cross..that is one reason I am doing these post about Holy Week especially for mothers...I wish I had these links while I was raising my children as being a convert..I did not have the background of being raised in a Catholic home with all the wonderful traditions.

Here is another link I found very nice from OUR SUNDAY VISTOR it is The Eggs-traordinary Easter Egg by Ann Ball...it tells about how the Easter Egg became a symbol for early Christians...I think you will enjoy this very much and mothers might take time to relate these stories to their children while they create Easter Eggs with their children.

Here is a rather large list found at CATHOLIC MOMS.COM for you to expore with your children:

Easter Coloring

Jelly Bean Prayer

Ideas for Decorating Easter Cookies

A New Type of Easter Egg Hunt

Dippity Do - Fun With Easter Eggs

Healthy Easter Basket Ideas

Great Ideas for Easter Meals

Easter Traditions: Seven Ways to Add Meaning to Your Family Celebration

Jeweled Easter Egg Wreath Craft

Quick Easter Decorating Tips for Your Fireplace

Easter Traditions On A Budget

Ten Tips for Frugal and Healthy Easter Baskets

Easy Easter Crafts for Kids

Get Some Help Finding Good Easter Craft Ideas

Take the Expense Out of Your Easter Celebration

Easter Scrapbooking Ideas for your Family

Adding Meaning To Your Family's Easter Celebration

Eggs-Travagant Easter Eggs Without All the Hassle

Easter Eggs: Tiny Works of Heart

I hope those of you who are not Catholic will enjoy some of these links also..I am posting these links from a Catholic point of view..but all Christians celebrate Our Lords Passion and Resurrection and I hope to share my faith with all Christians and non christians during this wonderful week ending in Easter Sunday.

Now before I go...here are two sheets for you to download and use for your Easter Crafts..simply right click for larger image and save to your computer to use in creating Easter Crafts: These are sized 8.5x11" for printing and if you wish to print iron-on transfers, please remember to mirror your graphics before printing .

Thank you so much for visiting and I hope you enjoy this special week...be sure to follow each day as i hope to present more ideas to help us focus on the journey of Our Lord thur his Passion this Holy Week ending in the most wonderful gift ever bestowed on the world ..Our Salvation thur...Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Please pray for our country...in view of the recent events...we are not on the right path...if we do not defend the most helpless among us...what does that say about us as a nation.

Our nation needs prayer now more than anyother time in our history.

Spring brings Bunny Sale, New Doll Tags & Grass To Mow

2010-03-27T10:28:00.002-05:00

Just posted a large lot of handmade vintage style bunnies on Ebay.

I took my inventory of unsold bunnies and posted them in a group..for one bid or buy it now.

Here is the link if you are interested in bidding or using the buy it now..it is only a 3 day auction..I have got to clear out a lot of my items to make way for new ones.

UPDATE...SORRY THIS ITEM IS SOLD

Ebay Bunny Lot

Also I have created some new tags from my Dolly Dingle images..they are listed in both Ebay and Etsy...they are $4 for a 5 pc. set.

Now back to cleaning out my craft room.....trying to make things a little neater.

The outside is calling..we have a lawn that needs mowing and I think I will try and get some of that done before we get rain....I have front and back lawns...side pasture, back pasture and little park out front..so that should keep me busy. I don't really mind I love being outside..it is a little cool, but that isn't too bad.

Be back later..have a great day..do something you enjoy.

Bunting Banners..Just listed

2010-03-25T10:38:00.002-05:00

Good morning..just listed some bunting banner flags...this is something new to my store..they were lots of fun creating.

First is a Dolly Dingle Bunting..accented with blue floras and polka dots. This banner is approx. 4 ft. in length and a drop of approx. 5" of little flags..each little banner flag is backed with matching fabric..dolls also. It is accented with rick rick and has rick rack loops at end for hanging.

I thought this would be a great accent for a girl's room, party or even a little accent for the doll lover. You can hang these over a window or on a wall or even accent a hutch or cabinet with these little banners.

I hope to creat a few more of these little dolly banners.

My other bunting is a pastel spring bunting which adds a bright touch to your home where ever you choose to hang it.

I am really ready for spring..not summer..but spring..so this inspired me to create some of these buntings..our English blogger friends have had these for quite some time and I am an admirer of their blogs and the lovely things they create.

The spring pastel bunting above is approx. 50" long and the drop on the little flags is approx. 6".

Both are listed on Etsy Shop Gathering Goodies.

I also wanted to remind you about the little dolly dingle sachet dolls..I had a very nice lady place an order for her daughter's first communion party..she plan to use them as favors. I would not recommend these for smaller children because of the bows and roses attached to these little lavender sachet...they are in my ebay store and also my blog store in the upper left hand corner of my blog.

Backs are of various fabrics as shown in photo below..if you would like to place a special order just email me they are $3.50 each on my blog.

This will include a special cello bag for each doll as shown in the photos below.

Here is a sample of the dolls in bags and some of the fabric backings below that photo.

I also have some polka dots for those who would rather have something different from the flora.

So be sure and EMAIL if you have any questions...Thanks and have a great day...looks like we might have some showers.

New Lavender Sachets...Make Your Own

2010-03-21T09:23:00.000-05:00

I just posted these 3 little lavender sachets on Ebay..but if you wish to make your own..you can buy the iron-on transfers #SC99 in my blog store on the

IRONON TRANSFER page and make your own....I used three of the designs to create these little sachets.

Here is a photo of the transfer I used SC99.

Be back later today with some goodies I gathered off the net.

Have a great day!

More Lavender Sachet Dolls

2010-03-16T23:15:00.003-05:00

I have added a page to my blog store
Lavender Sachet Dolls

They are $3.50 each....if you purchase $20 or more you get free postage.

I will be happy to combine postage on orders under $20...just click on the link in the upper lefthand sidebar under my Blog Store.

Here are the new dollies..there are 19 in this bunch.

Be sure to check these out..Thanks so much!

Mother's Day Freebie Sheet

2010-03-16T07:27:00.001-05:00

This is a quick post...a Mother's Day Freebie..I just wanted to add this to my free graphics. Hope you can use it..simply right click to go to larger image and save to your computer..as always you are free to use this for your creative items, but please don't sell graphics.

Wil be back later..have a great day..enjoy this day. It is a unique gift that will only be here once.

Freebie Pink Tags and Handmade Goodies in my blog shop New

2010-03-14T05:32:00.001-05:00

Just a quick post to give you a little freebie goodie. Thought you might like

a sheet of tags for your creations. You may print as many as you like, but please don't sell the design sheets.

Simply click on the image and wait for the larger image to come up..then save it to your desktop to print on your own computer. Hope you enjoy these tags.

They should print out letter size 8.5x11"....tags should be approx. 4x2.5" depending on your printer.

Be sure and check out my Blog Shop..I just added a new page

HANDMADE GOODIES

Here you will find some things I create and offer to my blog vistors..just click on the link above or shop from my links in the upper left hand corner.

I hope you will find something you like and these are offered at a reduced price or free postage..so that you can get a bargain...I will be adding more as the days go by.

Speaking of bargains..I will be creating a page with lots of gatherings...I have a ton of Halloween goodies and Christmas Goodies that I am going to offer at a great savings in the near future. My craft room is running out of storage so be sure and check back for my offerings in the near future.

Don't forget to set your clocks ahead 1 hour...I am glad my computer does it for me.

Thanks and have a good Sunday..I hope it is a very nice day for you all.

I will be back later with some new goodies.

Be thankful...this morning I am thankful that we all have a guardian angel to watch over us and our families..Thank you Lord for that special gift to us..that we so often forget....myself included.

Have a great day!

Lavender Sachet Dollies

2010-03-13T12:22:00.009-06:00

As I said in the previous post I am creating some new things for my booth.

I am also suppose to be gathering all my tax information..that is partly done..still have more to do..I hate doing that.

But between gathering my tax information and creating pin cushions etc for my booth..I have also created some new Lavender Doll Sachets...I have made these little Dolly Dingle Dolls before, but this time I had the idea of making them into sachets..some as hangers for your closet and some just cute litte drawer sachets.

They are accented with ribbons, buttons and wee roses...the backs are various shabby fabrics. They smell so sweet with the fresh scent of lavender..they are approx. 5" tall.

I just wanted to post some photos..before listing the in my Ebay and Etsy Shops...they will be $4 not including postage, but you can buy them from my blog for 3.50 each PP. So if you would like one, please EMAIL me and let me know which one so that I can take it out of my stores.

Little Hanging Dolly Sachets

Sweet Little Drawer Doly Sachets

Oh..I almost forgot..don't forget that I have some items for sale on this blog..You will find the links in the upper left hand corner under BLOG STORE.

IronOn Transfers are featured on this page...I sell a lot of those on Ebay and Etsy..so I created a page for them here. You choose the design and I print them and send them via snail mail..they are easy to do with a houshold iron.

On this page you can also order these designs as Eprints....like the tags they are sent via email for you to print. Eprints are $1.50 and Transfers are $2.25...cheaper than my Ebay Store.

DOLL PINS are featured on this page..I create them for Doll Collectors or Doll Lovers..they use them as Doll Favors or gifts.

I also do custom doll pinsfor your own photo...you will find phtos and all the information on my page.

I have a page of Eprints and Printed TAGS..on this page you will find Tags

You can either choose Eprints which are sent via email for you to save and print yourself or Printed Tags that I can print on 110lb. cardstock and send thur snail mail

Last is my EASTER GIFTS these are some bunnies, chicks etc....that would be great accents for baskets, boxes etc...Here is the real bargain..they are postage free so you save buying here instead of my Ebay or Etsy Shops

We Have Two Winners...Aprons, Pillows and Scottie Dog

2010-03-05T06:07:00.002-06:00

Good Morning..this is going to be a very short post..I am sorry I am a day late in posting the winners of my Giveaway.

The winner of the Bunnies and Chicks is Jennydunn2001.

The winner of the eprints is Chatty Kathy~Palmetto Prims

I am very happy for you both. I have sent a email to Jenny, but I need Chatty Kathy to contact me with her email address.

Thank you all for your great comments and for joining my Giveaway.

My husband picked the two names last nite.

I will be doing some new post on a great craft for kids...YoYos..while I was in TN visiting my daugher Mandy and my grandaughers..KK, Emma Grace and Hanna..we had a lot of fun making yoyos.

Mandy turned them into pins which she has put in her Etsy Shop

"fweetmom"

Be sure to check out her new pillows and ribbon holder..plus she also added some new aprons...they are so spring like..they are so cute.

I am very proud of Mandy and her work..I don't know how she has time to do all she does..besides hosting her own blog "fweetmoms" and her Etsy Shop..she works with the PTA, Girl Scouts, teaches a class at her church and finds time to be a room mother....not to forget a great Mom.

As soon as I get the photos of the girls from Mandy....I will do a post on YoYos...with some links to some really cute items you can make with these.

Below is a photo of a pillow my sister Mary Beth made of an old thyme Scottie Dog...I love Scottie Dog Crafts and hope to have a post shortly on that. I love this pillow..my sister creates so many pretty things..she just took up stitching and has taught herself so many new stitches....this pillow looks like a season stitcher made it..not a newbie. I am very proud of her and the things she makes.

Also stayed tune for a post on pin cushions..I love looking at these and there are some great ones out there in internet land.

Ok..will be back later with some new goodies...don't forget this is a great day that the Lord has gave us...use it wisely..enjoy it...enjoy others around you...be grateful...this is a gift and it is unique...be thankful for all our blessings!

Today Merry of Puddingstone Farms...Easter Freebie!

2010-02-26T07:36:00.002-06:00

Good Morning..I want to introduce you to a new friend I found on the net

her name is Merry...I love that name. They say you follow your name and that rings true with Merry.

On her Etsy Store Puddingstone Farms profile she states:

"I follow Jesus Christ, love people and enjoy sewing, in that order. I am married to the most wonderful man in the world and we have 3 adult children, each with families of their own, and 6 grandchildren. We strive to live a simple life, working with our hands and serving God. We enjoy all of the wonderful nature settings our state has to offer"

As I searched her website Puddingston Farms.com and her Blog by the same name..I found that this quote does rings true about Merry.

On her blog she has photos of baby blankets and prayer shawls that her church group makes for new babies in their church, preemies and still borns at the local hospital. The prayer shawls are people who are ill. Afterwards they pray over their handworks to bless the recipients. What a wonderful act of faith.

Merry also does lectures and workshops on needlework..you can EMAIL her for more information.

I purchased this lovely tea cozy below and 3 of her patterns of which half of the proceeds from the sales goes to help homeless families, seniors, and disabled in Michigan get back on their feet. Isn't it pretty..look at all the pretty stitches..I must confess when I saw it I thought this would make a perfect tote since it is already lined..don't know if I will try it..can't wait til it arrives.

Merry's Website Puddingstonefarms is so pretty I love the graphics she has on her border..they are so bright and pretty. Besides the products and handmades she sells, there are a lot of other great things.

Don't overlook her recipes..I have already tried the ribs and they were great..next I am going to do the Zucchini Bread..if you have never ate it...try it..I love it.

Another link is "The Sheperd's Voice" here you will find Merry's Inspirational Thoughts and Scriptures...I enjoyed this very much.

Now for some of her goodies..below is a photo collage of some of the items available on her website and Etsy Store..Those stripe tea towels will be may next purchase ..they are really pretty. She offers Aunt Martha Transfers, Pin Cushions, Tea Cozies, Wall Quilts, Vintage Goodies, Patterns, Books, Sewing Notions and lots more...one thing I really love is her purses..they are really pretty.

Here are a few photos from her blog about her farm and family life..also many recipes here..I enjoyed this blog very much..Merry is a very nice and sincere person who enjoys life and lives her faith. I am glad she shared her photos and thoughts with us.

Sweet Little Herb Garden

Mother Deer and twin babies on her farm

Collection of her creamers...so pretty

Well..I hope you will enjoy these very nice sites as much as I have.

I'm off to shop for some tea towels and maybe a few other goodies that

I have been wanting.

Before I go..let me remind you to leave a comment here for a chance to win my Easter Giveaway.

I also want to welcome some of the followers here who have came from my old blog and also the newcomers..glad to have you...you are most welcome.

I will be having company this weekend..my daughter from TN is coming with my three grandaughters..KK, Emma Grace & Hanna..can't wait to see them..I will be returning to Cordova with them Sunday for a short visit leaving my husband and Murdock to hold down the old homestead.

I have listed some new appliques in my Ebay and Etsy stores..they are felt Bunnies and Chicks...they are something new..you can either iron them on or just stitch them then emblish as you please. Below are a couple of the new designs..I have several more listed. They are $3 a set PP.

Oh..almost forgot to leave you all a freebie..just click on the image and save larger image to your computer to print for yourself..it is sized 8.5x11"

Ok...now I am off to shop..thank you for your comments...stay warm and be thankful!

Today I am thankful for family...

God Bless each and everyone and keep them safe.

And God Bless you and your family too!

Great Blog, Website and Tutorial ..Charm Pack Tote

2010-02-23T12:59:00.001-06:00

I subscribe to a newsletter which features some great tutorials and when I

went to their site I found this pretty tutorial for a Charm Pack Tote by

Buttonberry.

You can download this tutorial and make one for yourself or a friend.

Unfortunately..I don't have the right file to do this..so I need to update my computer, but I am sure it will work for you.

Be sure to visit this wonderul blog Buttonberry

There you will find so many beautiful items with such brillant colors..I love the way Emma and Lisa combine their colors and fabrics.

In this post they show lots of goodies that they created for a show ...I especially love the pin cushions and this pillow among other things.

They also have a store Buttonberry where you will find patterns, fabrics, notions etc.

Be sure to check out this new goodie I have gathered...I am sure you will find it very interesting.

Now for a little news...I have created a sale in my Ebay store

Gathering Goodies

15% off til March 12th.

plus if you buy $20 or more you will get

free shipping..but you must wait for invoice before paying. Also I do offer combined shipping for purchases...again you will have to wait for an invoice before paying.

Don't forget my Giveaway..it will be March 4th..to enter just post a comment under this post..you may win some little Easter Bunnies and Chicks for your Easter decorating....or perhaps some graphics to make Easter projects.

Ok..will be back shortly with some more goodies I have gathered on the net..hope you all have a great day..be thankful.
I have mention this before..but I will repeat it...the gift of sight.
Think of what a blessing this is that God has gave you sight...you can see all his creations...sometimes we all take this for granted..but don't...it is a truly wonderful gift from Our Lord.

Easter Giveaways March 4th. Bunnies & Chicks & Eprints

2010-02-21T07:23:00.000-06:00

I am having two Giveaways for Easter and Spring ending Mar 4th.

The first is for the Bunnies and Chicks in the photos below...the second is for the Eprints as shown in the last photo.

The Bunnies and Chicks Giveaway..will be for those who live in the US mainland only. This is due to the cost of postage to send outside the Us.

So I thought for the second Giveaway..I would offer 4 Easter
Eprints which are 8.5x11" jpeg sheets sent thur emails as attachments..that way it won't cost any postage and this Giveaway will be for everyone with an email address. This Giveaway is for everyone.

So here are the rules...leave a comment with your contact information and the country you reside in...like USA mainland or England, France etc...

If you are a US resident residing outside the mainland..be sure and leave that information as you will only be able to win the Eprints.

Remember if you don't have a blog..be sure and leave an email address so that I can contact you.

Also if you do you a blog and mention my Giveaway on your blog..you get an additional entry so be sure and relate that to me in your comment.

Ok..here is the first Giveaway for US Mainland Residents Only!

Now here is the Giveaway for Everyone including those outside US Mainland

4 Sheets of Easter Eprints via email

I hope this is not too complicated. Thanks so much..have a great day.

Easter Pillows and Easter Freebie Graphics

2010-02-20T10:55:00.001-06:00

Good morning...I have been busy sewing..tried my hand at some new pillows for Easter.....they are listed in my ebay store "Gathering Goodies"

Plus I will be doing a 10% off sale on Ebay later today.

Here are the new pillows:

Ok..here here is your freebie Easter Graphics..simply click on the

image to go to larger image and save to your computer to print at your leisure. You may not sell graphics but use them to created pillows, totes, ect. Don't forget to mirror your image before printing when making iron-on transfesrs.. Thanks for viewing..if you have any suggestions for other freebie graphics..leave a comment and I will see if I can create something you need.

Have a good day..today I am thankful for grandchildren..they are a blessing from the Lord..and sometimes they really amaze me.

Goodies For Sale

2010-02-16T06:56:00.006-06:00

Good morning..just a quick post.

I have added a new link to my blog..Under my logo a link entitled

"EASTER GOODIES FOR SALE"

Click on this link and it will take you to my new sale page.

Here I have listed some items that I offer in my store

and some new items, but these are being offered

to my Blog readers at a discount.

In appreciate to my customers and my blog readers I have listed

some goodies at a savings..most are Postage Paid via First Class Mail.

I will be adding new items ..so keep an eye on the links at the top of

my Page.

Check out the items I have listed this morning..some Bunnies, Chicks

and a special cat...all at discount prices.

Here is an example of your savings:

This set sells for $6.50 plus $2.50 Postage

in my store....Purchase here

for $6.50 Postage Paid..save $2.50

So please check out the other items I have listed and save.

Thank you for your time...I will try and add some new items this afternoon.

Have a great day and be thankful.

Today...I am thankful for my health...although I have the ususal aches and pains that come with my age...consider the alternative..

Thank you Lord for my health and all the other blessings that I take for granted.

A Special Gift

2010-02-15T05:39:00.002-06:00

"This is the day the Lord has made:

let us rejoice in it and be glad."

Psalms 118:24

It is 5:04 AM...I am usually up before now, but this morning I slept a little later. I just wanted to make a short post..this day is the start of the work week for many and a holiday for others.."Presidents Day" in the US.

I just wanted to remind everyone including myself..

this day is a gift from the Lord....I hope your day and everything you do is blessed.

I am going to try and remember all day..that it is a special gift not to be taken for granted. I may not succeed...but I am going to try at least to recall that as I go thur my day today.

As for my day today..I am going to try to make a few of the things I have been posting about and some that I just found..some pin cushions. Plus some much need housecleaning and organizing my crafts.

My sister inspired me to try the pin cushions..she is going to make a few..hope to post them here when she is done.

Here is a photo posted from a week ago..but it was so pretty I just had to repost it.

I have found some good links and will post them later today.

Ok..we are all on our way to do this and that...I wish you a good day

and my God bless you today in all you do.
Take care and enjoy this special Gift!

Thank you Lord for giving us this day!

Button, Button...Whose got Button Crafts & More

2010-02-13T22:53:00.007-06:00

Buttons, Buttons...Lots of Button Crafts.

So I thought you might like to try your hand at some of these goodies

I gathered off the net.

I love buttons..all kinds..vintage, new, yellow, blue, pink...

you name it..I just have a thing about buttons.

Before I start..let me share my new button jar which just arrived from my friend Pat...I love it..Thank you Pat you out did yourself.

Hop over to her blog SUMMERSDARLINGS

She sells there and on Ebay, but you can get a discount on

her blog....she just posted some Bath Jars..yummy.

Pat is so easy to work with and her work is excellent.

She also has a sneak peep at her Bunnies..I love them!

And one more Goodie I gathered along the way while searching for button crafts..It is a breath of spring in the middle of winter.

"Mary Poppins"

Look at her creations...I love this site and she has a selling blog

"Vintage Daisy"

And don't forget to enter her Giveaway before Feb. 14th.

"Vintage Valentine Giveaway"

Now for some button goodies..I found on the net.

Hope you enjoy these cute items.

"My Cottage Bliss" shows how to created this beautiful

"White Button Wreath"

Very nice site with lots of eye candy!

The Prairie Girl has great tutorial for this Button Heart.

Be sure to see other post a very nice site.

Martha Stewart has several cute button projects on this link.

Button clock using a tin lid and buttons

Also these nice napkins with button trims

Country Living has some really neat napkins rings

Bandanna Napkin Ring

Scroll thur this page til you see these napkins

Simple to make..their tutorial says to sew a buttonhole, but

you could just sew your napkin rings together and add

the button as a trim..that would be a bit faster.

Ok...here are some Button Magnets I just created.

Believe me these are very easy..just use your imagination, your extra

buttons, magnets and your hot glue gun..and your have

some sweet little magnets for your frig.
.

Now here are the pins I created...I will be listing them on
Ebay shortly for $5 each..you can buy them here before I list
them for $4 each. Just email me sometime today.
They are presented on vintage style button cards

Postage is $2.00 via first class mail.

If you want more than one..
I will combine shipping to save you
on postage

Now here is a freebie for you..Vintage Easter Bunny..simply right click
to go to larger image and save to your computer to print. This is an
8.5x11" sheet.
As always you are free to use these on your crafts and projects..but please do
not sell the images.

Ok..you would not believe the trouble I have had getting this post finished.

First..as you may know..I live in the country and only have dial-up and my
top speed is 28.8. Believe me that is slooooooooooow...
and it takes a hugh amount of time searcing the net and waiting, waiting, and still waiting for pages to come up.

Besides that..what I thought would be an easy as pie post about buttons..turned out to be a not so fruitful endeavor. For some
reason I had a lot of trouble finding good button crafts.
Although the ones I found ..I really like and the new
sites I came upon are a real treat.

I am a early riser..and I mean early like 3 in the morning..I started this post at 3 AM Sat. morning and it is now 10:27 PM Sat. nite.
Now I did have an errand or two to run in between..
but most of the time I have been working on this post.

Oh, to have DSL that would be a dream..nevertheless..
I do love gathering goodies to share and I'm sure my
next post will be easier.
Hope you enjoy these button goodies

Remember to be Thankful..
I am thankful for the blessings of being born in America...
I have faith in God and the American people and their belief in
freedom, liberty, their heritage and the constitution.

All which were paid for at a great price with the blood of many
young Americans so that we could enjoy the freedom that this
country was founded upon.

Let not their sacrifice be in vain...honor their memory by
making sure that America stays free and true to the principals and values
which were our cornerstones.
"America, America, God Shed His Grace on Thee"

Weather Folklore, Common Sense & Bears

2010-02-12T11:31:00.010-06:00

Everyone is talking about the weather...we have all kinds of new weather technology at our fingertips today. We can get weather on our ipods, phones, computers, tvs..it's everywhere..maps, forecast, fronts..

But what did our relatives have in the past to predict their weather....not much in technology..back then they didn't have phones. So what did they

depend on to be able to do their everyday tasks.

Common sense...does that sound strange today. Seems like it might be a lost way of thinking considering all the things going on today.

They would gather their information from nature and experience..they did not have radar to warn them about tornadoes, hurricanes and floods. But they did have certain knowledge taken from mother nature to warn them about events about to occur.

I have gather a few of these sayings that seem to work. I also have a couple of my own that I acquired from watching how

animals behave...I'll pass those on later.

Here are few..I am sure you have heard some of these from your grandparents..

"When chairs squeak, Its about rain they speak"
Has to do with the humidity in the air.

"When the wind is out of the east,
'Tis neither good for man nor beast".
Has to do with storms and lows pressure systems

"If birds fly low, Expect rain and a blow"
Has to do with the air pressure and it's effect on birds flying

"A wind from the south has rain in it's mouth"
Winds from the south carry moisture from the Gulf inland

"When cows gather in a huddle, tomorrow we shall have a puddle"
Animals can sense the change in weather

"When the dew is on the grass, rain will never come to pass"
Has to do with humidity...I noticed this to be very true

"Cold is the nite, when stars shine bright"
Clear skies let the heat escape..while clouds hold it in

"If February brings drifts of snow,
Summer will bring good crops to hoe"
Well, I am going to check this one out this summer

"Red sky in the morning, sailor's take warning.
Red sky at night, Sailors delight"
This comes from the bible and it does prove true

"Ring around the moon, Rain is coming soon"
Has to do with the moisture in the air..true

This one I got from an old newspaper article about

a terrible tornado that hit in Arkansas. They quoted a person saying

"they knew there was going to be a bad storm because the concrete

was sweating and that everyone should know that means a storm".

I noticed that my patio and front porch on our house which is quite old

does sweat when we are about to get a really bad storm. And believe

me, we have had a few.

Now for my two cents..I have noticed that the squirrels around here don't come out early like the birds...they seem to appear around 8 or 9 in the morning and then again in the late afternoon..guess they sleep the day away in their nest.

But when you see squirrels running around in the middle of the day or at least not at their normal eating time..you can bet

there is going to be a big change in the weather..a storm in the summer or snow in the winter. I always watch for this sign when they forecast bad weather..so far it has always proven true.

For my second weather tip..I live in the country and have noticed this to be true. In the spring right before summer and in fall right before winter..I noticed that you see lots of turtles on the roads..they are on the move. About two weeks after you see this..in either season..the weather settles in to stay either hot for summer..or cold for winter.

I think that God in all his wisdom created animals with a natural barometer so that they know when the weather is going to change.

That way they can gather food and find shelter before the change.

Ok..you can take these to heart or as they say "with a grain of salt"..an old southern saying, but for the most part they all ring true.

Animals like the bear know when to head to the caves for their winter naps and what's that little saying about the groundhog. I think we might be a little better off, if we applied some common sense to things going on today....Just a thought.

Speaking of bears..thought I would share this little bear that I created

for my grandson's birthday..Valentine's Day. It is a bear I created from the tutorial I used to create the bunnies. I couldn't add buttons since he might swallow them so I had to stitch the features.

It was fun..I don't know if he will like it as much as his Pooh Bear. They have to keep a couple of those around so when one is in the washer the other is in his arms.

One more bear fact...here is a little bear my sister found at the flea market..she got it for 50 cents..what a find. Stayed tuned to see how she plans to dress it..I will post the pics when she is finished. Can't wait to

see it.

Be sure and check back today..I am going to post some freebie

Easter Graphics for you to use in your creative endeavors..

Remember be thankful...today I am thankful for family..all my

children and their spouses, my grandchildren, my husband and my

mother, my two sisters and my brother-in-law.

Thank you Lord.

Better late than never...Ta Da Heart Winner!

2010-02-11T09:20:00.004-06:00

Yes, better late than never..I have the winner of my Heart Giveaway..my
husband drew one this morning....and the winner is...

Donna of CounterCrafts...Congradulations Donna..couldn't gone to a nicer person...I am so happy for her..she was one of my first friends when I
started my blog. I will contact you later today..

I was suppose to draw for this on the 10th..but I forgot..I guess it goes with my age..sorry about that. It may be a few days before I get to the post office.

My husband mailed for me yesterday on his way to work..but he told me today that he didn't think I could get the car out of the driveway..so I guess I'll have to wait..he isn't sure he can get his truck out today because he doesn't have all the snow on the back for weight..a pickup is dangerous on snow and ice unless you have a lot of weight in the back..so we'll have to wait and see.

Our weatherman said some dangerours words today....
"a slight dusting"
that's what he said before we got the previous 10" of snow which is still on the ground.

Check back later today for some weather folklore that I will be posting..some old sayings that for the most part have proven to be good advise. Plus I"ll have to pass on a couple of my little goodies that I learned over the years from mother nature.

Now for the little footnote or should I say rabbitfoot notes. You remember the cute little "Naughty Little Bunnies" tutorial that I posted from "NiniMakes" See the cute little bunnies below:

Well, Mandy my youngest daughter was asking about them for Hanna her youngest. I told her there was a tutorial for them and that I was wanting to try it. So I just said.."oh, I'll do one for all the girls..KK, Emma Grace and

Hanna"....like I am such a pro.

So yesterday..I dove into making some of those cute little bunnies..I had some cream felt on hand and tons of scraps. I must admit the instructions are easy as pie to follow..that is..if you are a desciplined crafter.

Well that leaves me out..because I always start on something...maybe a craft..maybe a recipe..then at some point I get off track and start adding my own ideas or ingredents.

It seems I just can't stay with the program and follow instructions. In cooking I always think I need to add a little of this and a little of that..like with chili....what should be a pot of chili for two people winds up being a hugh pot of chili for 15. I just seem to wander away from the plan.

So the bunnies are not a pot of chili..but somehow mine turned out to be quite different from Nini's. I enjoyed doing them, especially adding the trims.

When I sent the photos to Mandy, she was very kind and said she like them..but I think being a young more uptodate person she was attracted to the design by Nini. It is kind of in the mode of Etsy..you know... there are alot of young talented girls on Etsy that have that new look.

Mandy sells on Etsy too and she has that look to her work..an eye for the younger generation and what they like. I am proiud of her work... she makes baby blankets, pillows, aprons etc...here is her shop.

Fweetmom

But no matter what I make they are always very happy and appreciate my work. Now I may try to make some more..but don't know how many that I 'll complete..I am always eyeing new items to try and very bad about not finishing what I start.

Here are the little bunnies that hopefully will be on their way via

the USPS to a home in Tennessee to three sweet girls. I am sure they will

decide who gets what bunny.

Now another footnote to a footnote..stay in touch..I have been gathering goodies and will be posting something I hope you will enjoy..I haven't got everything together yet.

I am blessed with good friends who shower me with good ideas..in fact..I had 3 emails when I woke this morning very early....from two friends and my oldest daughter Jenny...also very talented...in fact I am blessed with 3 daughters who are very gifted in different ways...they don't get it from me.

The two friends gave me a great idea for a post..and my daughter who was asking about the weather..gave me the idea for the folklore weather sayings.

I will be back with these post shortly..for now I will leave you with a little weather saying..just a tidbit . This is suppose to be true and relates to

highs and lows bringing storms.

"When the wind is out of the east,

'Tis neither good for man nor beast"

So long for now..stay warm and remember the little blessings we take for granted that our Lord send us each day.

Today I am thankful for the gift of sight..so that I can see ..my family and all the wonders of this world.

Make Me An Offer!

2010-02-10T14:25:00.001-06:00

Not me but Summersdarlings..she just listed this beautiful gallon
jar on her selling blog It's A Wonderful Life

Here are some photos..I love her work. Be sure and visit her blog
before this jar is marked sold.

If you have an idea for a jar..she will be happy to do custom work..she has

thousands of vintage images. These would make wonderful wedding gifts.

Maybe fill them with bathsalts....or a cookie jar, button jar, keepsake jar..there are a million things that you could put in one of these jars.

And Pat is so easy to work with..she aims to please and her work is

the very best.

Good Things Come In Threes...Look at these!

2010-02-10T10:06:00.001-06:00

They say good things come in threes...

so I have found three great blogs with

neat tutorials. I am certain you will enjoy these.

First The Creative Place

What a neat blog..I found this Valentine Ornament tutorial...it such a neat idea for an all year round goodie or a special gift.

Check out her recipes..they sound so yummy

Also she has an really nice etsy shop The Creative Place So be sure to check these sites out..I know you wll really enjoy it..I hope to make a heart for a keepsake. Very nice lady!

Little Birdie Secrets this blog lives up to its logo

"A nest of creative tips, tricks and tutorials"

It is created by three friends and offers tons of goodies.

I found this Simple Felt Heart Garland

tutorial and it is so cute...It seems easy to create. I am sorry to

say I could not find their shops..but they do have a link to buy the kits on

their blog. These girls are young and creative.... I think you will really find lots of good things on this blog.

Here is a really good read Lola Nova .. I enjoyed her style and found her tutorial for a lovely Summer Wallet that I absolutely love..I got to try my

hand at this one.

She also has an etsy store

Lola Nova

Be sure to read about her girls..she has a little flock of chickens..I love hens..besides being good pets..they give you their eggs

which are so much better than store bought.

Here is one last thing for you..look at this beautiful sunrise

that the Lord sent today and the pretty icicles from the roof.

God gives us lots of blessing everyday..we just need to be

aware of them..Thank you Lord!

A Very Special Artist

2010-02-09T21:19:00.001-06:00

Finally..I am so happy to bring you a great artist..her name is

Pat and believe me she is as lovely as her creations..Very kind and

gracious...it has been a pleasure to present her on my blog

I don't know where to begin..so let me show you my special

Button Jar that she created..I can't wait to see it when it arrives..she

does special orders.

Be sure and click on the photos to see the larger images..these

thumbnails don't begin to show the beauty of this jar. Her photos are another of her talents. I just love the little dolls she accents her items with and notice my tag that is a keepsake by itself.

I used to visit her shop and always

loved the jars she created...something about them is so vintage.

So when I found her shop again..I knew I had to have one.

It will be a very special item in my sewing room. Thank you for

creating this order for me. I am sure she would be most happy

to do additional orders..don't be shy...you too can have a keepsake

like this. It would make a special gift.

Her shop on Ebay is SUMMERSDARLINGSJUSTBETWEENUSGRILS

Her shop on Etsy is THEVELVETRABBIT

Her blog is SUMMERSDARLING

Presently she has some very beautiful items listed on Ebay..here are a
few links that you need to visit to see her work and perhaps grab
something that you can't live without.

PINCUSHION*RIBBON ROSES*LAVENDER*SCISSOR HOLDER
This is beautiful..such intricate work

PINCUSHION*LITTLEST BEAR*RIBBON ROSES*SHAB CHIC

Great Gift for a Bear Collector

PINCUSHION*BRIDE & GROOM VINTAGE CELLUOID DOLLS*ROSES

A wonderful wedding gift..so unique

Be sure to view her feedback to see other unique items that she
has already sold to give you some idea of the things she creates.

Also you will really enjoy her blog..you would not believe all the beautiful items that she has created in the past that are sold.
Pat makes fabric blocks, pin cushions, sachets, pillows, valentine ornaments,
christmas stockings, beautiful wreaths..so many one of a kind
items....I could go on and on.

Thank you so much Pat for letting me feature you on my blog..it has
been an honor and a pleasure.

I am sure many of you already know of this lady and her work..but I hope some of you who have not yet found her will enjoy her art as much as I have.

One last word..this lady is as lovely and gracious as the items she creates.
She is so nice and down to earth..a real gracious person.

Thanks Pat..I will be back for more.

Gathered Goodies..great links!

2010-02-09T09:52:00.001-06:00

First is a blog called Bugs and Fishes by Lupin
She lives in England and is having a great giveaway..handmade brooches.
A little owl and a heart...she also has a tutorial for making both.
Plus she has shops on Etsy, DaWanda and Folksy. All these links are
on her blog.

Here is a great link..Moda Bake Shop a division of Moda Fabrics which
has great tutorials..some of the items are Apparel..Food..Accessories..Seasonal..and much more. They have lots
of great items you can make..

Valentine Pennie Pockets from Moda Bake Shop

Scraps in Progress: No-sew Valentine Garland

Here is another great link

J.Caroline Creative!

This is a online store..there logo is "your source for all things creative"

and they do have lots of items...Plus great tutuorials listed under "How tos"

so many great things you can make.

Try this little Valentine Heart & Pendant

Here is a set of Pin Cushions I created from a Vintage

Quilt..I will be listing them on my Ebay store

Gathering Goodies

Now before I go...let me tease you with my next post...I am going to feature a lady you may already know..I am not telling her name now.

But she is very creative and I order a wonderful Goodie from her..just got the photos of the creation and will post them and all the information about this very nice lady..this afternoon..so check back..I am so excited about this and my new goodie..can't wait to get it.

Be back this afternoon..

stay warm and enjoy this day..it is a gift from the Lord!

More Snow!

2010-02-08T19:40:00.002-06:00

Told you I would be back..Murdock and I went out and took some photos..he is so little he had to walk where my boots make a footprint.

It's still snowing and we had 9" about 2 hours ago..so much for a light dusting that the weather man said we would have. I love it.

These two photos are of the pasture next to us..as I was taking these I could hear the branches breaking...it sounded like a gun..some of the large pines lost limbs.

This is Mr. Murdock my little dog...someone dumped him along with a cute little dashound girl..Maddie Murdock was attacked by coyettes and almost died defending Maddie..soon after Maddie and my little Yorkie both disappeared on a Sunday..I think that either someone picked them up or the coyettes got them. Murdock never wandered off after being attacked. Now he goes everywhere I go...if I go to the bedroom he is right there. When I am on the computer he sleeps on the back of the sofa behind me so when he wants he can watch what is going on outside. He is a good little dog.

We have coyettes and they really are scary..they come at night and make a terrible sound...some of the people who have cattle put mini donkeys in with the cows...they kill coyettes and this protects the newborn calfs. Those little donkeys are so cute they are spotted like pinto horses..I would love to have one.

Speaking of cows..the pasture beside us is leased to a neighbor who has cattle...most of the times it is mothers and babies...when it is cloudy and i am working on the computer with the lights on..I will sometimes look out the window to see a mother cow watching me...they are very curious.

Now for a couple more snow phtoos..this is a very old oak most likely over 120 years..older than my house..my electrical wires run thur her mighty limbs.

We are having our son replace our outside elec. box and he told me to have the ele.company come out and trim the limbs that were over and touching our lines..it took the men two days to trim the limb and cut it up...in the summer these hugh limbs have ferns growing along their tops that look like boston ferms..I love old trees..and this one is a graceful lady.

Now for the final two...the first is of the back pasture...along a the fence row and the other is our pond in the same pasture.

Oh..yes I must not leave out the old pine tree and the twin bradford pears in the side pasture.

Well I hope I haven't bored you..but this was just a gift from God that was too beautiful to not pass along. I think he is telling us...that he is still in charge...and that even though some are puffed up by their own foolish pride and think that they can control the climate...they must think again..after all mankind, the earth and all are his creations...and I am amazed at the beauty that he sends us. Thank you Lord.

Snow ...Again! Beautiful

2010-02-08T08:21:00.002-06:00

It's snowing again..I can't believe it..we rarely get snow and this is a treat..
I was up at 3 to take some photos...after dawn I took a few more.
The 3a.m. photos:

After dawn photos:

I am really loving this..it is so beautiful...notice the little trikes in the snow above ...those are for our grandkids..I only have a couple now that are small enough to ride these..Hanna, Kai and Kardyn...well Abbi and Abby may still be on trikes..the older ones now ride bikes.. Ashley..I am sure she thinks she is too old to be included..20 but still a kid to me..Ben, Jaden, KK, Ariel, Emma Grace, Stacey, Ashlyn and Austin...the dare devil on wheels..he has been riding a bike since 3.. so I have a couple of bikes in the garage. And I don't want to forget Kristen...who is our little Saint in Heaven.

They really have a great time when they ride

up and down the drive. I love those great times...I have 15 grandkids...15 blessings. Six grown kids...Six blessings plus..3 daughter in laws and 1 son in law...I count them as my kids..none of them are kids anymore but all of them make me blessed.

Well I am warning you ahead of time..I may have to put on my new blue snowboots and head out to take some more photo today..I can't resist the beauty of the snow.

Stay warm and God Bless you all!

Pinkeeps and A Great Blog from England

2010-02-07T02:30:00.001-06:00

I have some really nice finds that I want to share with you. I spent most of the day searching for goodies and I found quite a few.

In this post I would like to introduce you to a great blog
"Nini Makes" by Joan.
She lives in England, although she is a native Californian..her blog is so interesting giving you peek inside life

on the other side of the Atlantic. Be sure and read her posts..she has some very pretty photos of the countryside plus little birds and animals that visit her garden in the winter and fall. Her blog is about family, friends, her creations and home...you will really enjoy it..I did.

One of the first tutorials from her blog that caught my eye was this cute little needle case. It is so sweet, after reading it I had to try my hand at making one..mine is a little different but I had a lot of fun making it. I'll post some photos at the end of this post.

Just click on the photo below to go to this tutorial.

I loved the colors and simplicity of this little needle book..plus the cute little buttons she used to accent it. It is a project for beginners so be sure and give it a try..I promise you will enjoy it.

Another was these cute little bunnies:

Camille and Issy..Just in time for Easter...I have not tried these yet..but hope to try my hand tomorrow afternoon..They are so cute.

And last but not least is this Cheater"s Patchwork

This is really a neat idea..I am really wanting to try this..although I am not the best at cutting..I will have to practice..I do better with precut squares..but this tutorial opens the door to a lot of goodies your could make. There are many more but these were a few that I wanted to post.

This lady is full of great ideas and I know you will be inspired to create after viewing her blog. I have really enjoyed it and she is a very nice lady. I just had to include this last photo of the countryside around her home which she posted..so be sure and visit her blog..you will not only be inspired but will really enjoy your visit.

Thank you Joan for offering these creative projects and being so nice to share them with us

Now here is my little needle book..as you can see I am new at stitching so I have a lot to learn.

Nevertheless, I did enjoy it and love my little needle case..keeps my needles in check..I am bad about loosing them in the carpet and that is a real hazard...most of the time my husband finds them.

Well, it's almost 3AM and I am thinking of making a pot of coffee..the older I get the less I sleep. But I think I may take a short nap, then make some coffee..I love coffee in the morning.

I'll be back tomorrow with some new finds...my computer is very slow..I only connect at 28.8...I live in the country and our phone lines are not new..plus we have lots of trees which I love and wireless is not an option. So for now..I will have to make do with the internet connection I have. Believe me, besides tending my Ebay and Etsy shops..searching for goodies takes a lot of time.

But I am really enjoying this blog.

Stay warm and God Bless You and Your Family.

Freebie Spring Design

2010-02-05T08:58:00.001-06:00

I have been busy making some spring iron-on transfers for my shops..so I decided to create one for my blog.
This is free..simply click on the photo for full size image and then
save it to your computer to use with your own printer. A reminder..if you wish to print this as an iron-on heat transfer be sure to mirror it before printing.

I hope you enjoy using this design. If you would like to post a link to your creations..I would love to see what you create..just leave a post below.

Don't forget about my giveaway..Feb. 12th..this little heart hanger..you can quaiify by simply becoming a follower of this blog. Be sure and leave an email contact if you don't have your own blog. Thanks!

Chicks, Bags & Bunnies

2010-02-04T11:08:00.001-06:00

Ok...it's getting time to design for spring..everyone seems to be tired of winter...I love fall and winter best.

Here are a few things for spring that I created and listed in my stores on Ebay and Etsy

This morning I created these little yellow chick designs..I thought they could be used to embellish pillows, sweats, baby items, totes etc.

These are some new iron-on transfers that I made for Easter and Spring..I hope to add a few more later this week.

Here are some bunnies made from vintage graphics and transfered to muslin..then stitched up for decorations

Here are some chicks:

A couple of bags

Ok..got to go fill some orders but I hope to be back with some links.

Have a good morning and enjoy this day.

Dolls and A Ditty Bag

2010-02-02T18:26:00.001-06:00

Let me introduce you to my other sister Maxine Griffin...this is a sweet little doll she created from a pattern offered by Cat and The Fiddle..I believe she is called "Moonbeam" ...isn't she cute. I have not seen it in person both sisters live in a little town north of me..so they email their photos.

Maxine is going to open an Etsy store very soon and I let you know when it is up and running...My other sister Mary Beth said she ought to make doll clothes as she is a very accomplished seamstress.

Oh..the little Raggedy..I just love this doll..is from an local artist Miranda's Moon she has a shop in Quitman, Arkansas..a very talented painter. I don't know if she used a pattern..Mary Beth bought it on a flea market trip.

Here is a little bag I created for my Etsy Shop...I guess you could call it a ditty bag..or just a litte keepsake bag.

I created it this afternoon..my younger sister gave the idea..she is doing a spring stitchery and turning it into a wall hanger..I can't wait to see it. I'll get her to send some photos.

I am lucky to have sisters...we have a great time together when we go poking around flea markets and every once in a while we get to take a trip to a little town in north Arkansas...Eureka Springs..for those outside the state it is a really neat place to visit..old store fronts...lots of shops..the town is built on the side of the ozark mountains. They called it little Switzerland..there are so many neat places..like the Crescent Hotel..supposed to be really haunted....Christ of the Ozarks...The Passion Play...Lots of Old Bed and Breakfast Homes...Flea Markets...Antique Stores...A Railroad Dinner Train..I know I left something out..but we have so much fun riding the tolley and just walking around. Oh, yes..the only church in the world that you enter thur the bell tower....St Elizabeth's Catholic Church...It is really beautiful..I have been to Mass there and it is so pretty.

Well better get off here...will be posting some blogs I found that are really neat...I know you will enjoy them..I have been kind of busy lately and have not got to do as much searching for blogs like I would like....also will work on some Easter Graphics that you can download and use for your projects..I can't believe how fast time flys....Take care ..be back soon!

God Bless you and your famlies and God Bless the USA!

Aprons, Birdseed, Baby Blankets & Still Snow

2010-02-01T11:14:00.005-06:00

We still have snow on the ground..I won't venture out today...will go to the post office tomorrow...maybe the roads will be clear by then.

I need to buy some birdseed..always buy it in the summer when they don't need it, but forget to buy it in the winter.

I want you to meet my daughter Mandy...she is my youngest and a twin. She has 3 daughters...KK, Emma Grace and Hanna...they don't live by us..they live in TN. I really miss them..they lived in Beebe when we first moved here. I have 15 grandkids and 6 grown children and I am very blessed to have each and everyone of them.

Mandy has an Etsy Shop "Fweetmom"

She makes lots of goodies...I am featuring a baby blanket and her Mother Daughter Aprons...you can go to her shop by clicking on the name abovehttp://www.etsy.com/shop/fweetmom

Mandy makes custom order aprons for Mothers and Daughters...she can also make just the mothers or the daughters.

This is a photo of a set of her aprons...Adult/ Child Combo set is only $12.50 plus $4.95 shipping. She does custom orders.

This sweet jungle print baby blanket is only $4 and is approx.

28x41" What a cute gift. So click on the links above and check out her store..I am very proud of her even if she is my daughter.

Hi..KK, Emma Grace and Hanna..they are at home today due to ice.

I'll be back this afternoon with another post...I have a really cute site that also has a shop on etsy..so many talented people on that site.

Now before I go..look at this beautiful sunrise the Good Lord sent us this morning..I am thankful to God for all his blessings...family, friends and our country. Too many blessings to list...Thank You Lord.