AT HOME WITH AMY

~In Need of A Favor~

2011-11-15T15:16:00.004-05:00

Sorry no pictures to post today. I am however in need of a favor. I have a friend that has a nineteen year old son that is mentally handicapped. He has the mentality of a four year old. He is completely fascinated with Christmas and all its glow. Cody's favorite thing about Christmas decor is the trees. Now here is where my favor comes in. I am putting together a little picture book for him that he can carry around and look at whenever he wants. I know some might say he could just look at pictures on the Internet or something like that. I say what child doesn't like to carry their favorite book around and look at its pages whenever they want.

This book will contain snap shots of various Christmas Trees from wherever I can find them. I will personalize the book for Cody as well. I am asking all my blogging friends if they would send me snapshots of their favorite trees. These pictures can be current if you've already decorated or they can be from the past. They can even be pictures of trees that you may have taken on one of your outings.

I'm hoping to get this book mailed to Cody sometime around the first of December. If you think you might have a photo to send I would like to have it mailed to me before November 30th. Please include your name on it if you want me to let Cody know whose tree it is. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me do this.

Pictures can be sent to: Amy Cosma
P.O. Box 167
Lisbon, Ohio 44432

Blessings to all,
AMY

~Am I Dreaming??~

2011-10-04T10:12:00.005-04:00

I have been drooling over Prairie Style Curtains ever since I can remember. I wanted to find just the right deal on them before making my purchase. You know they can be a bit pricey if you have ever looked for them yourself.

I belong to several private buying and selling groups on Facebook and I made a post the other day that I was looking for Prairie Curtains. It wasn't even 24 hours before a lovely lady posted that she had 4 pairs of them for sale. I just knew I was not reading her post right. Was it really possible that I might get my curtains after all! I knew I wanted a neutral solid color. I love the plaid curtains but I thought solid would look better with the furniture I have for now. Renate said her curtains were brown. Now how fabulous was this!

These curtains can cost up to $65.00 plus per pair. I have seen them in several catalogs and on line as well for this price. She was a sweetie and sold them to me (are you ready for this) $30.00 a pair plus shipping! I got two pairs for the cost of one! I was ecstatic. They have never been used and they were still in their original package. It just doesn't get any better than this as far as I am concerned.

Now I don't have my curtains up yet because I need to clean my windows and get these babies ironed so I borrowed this picture of my curtains from another site to show you what they look like. These are exactly what I got from Renate. Aren't they just beautiful??

Hopefully I will get them up this weekend and I can post a picture along with pictures of my fall decorating. I haven't had much time to do anything as of late but I'm always working on it here and there when I have time.

Until next time,

Blessings ~AMY~

~Looking for Inspiration~

2011-09-09T08:43:00.012-04:00

Hello friends! Geesh its been a while since I've posted anything. I guess everyday life has a way of taking control of things for us without our consent. We have been a very busy household as of late. We are constantly on the move. It seems like there is no quiet time for us these days.

I'm sitting here now looking out my window wondering how fall has crept up on us so quickly. We have had rain on and off for the last 4 days and I notice some changes starting to take place with the trees. Fall is my favorite time of year but I'm just not ready for it to be here just yet.

Well moving right along to the point of my post. I've been looking at a bunch of interior window shutters I have stacked in my garage racking my brain to come up with a use for them. I've come up with the idea of shelves, box type stands and maybe a small table. I need ideas that won't take too much carpentry skills to put together. I am not very crafty nor do I work well with tools. I'm willing to try though as long as it isn't too complicated. I suppose the shutters really don't even need made into anything. I'll even take ideas on how to display them to add character to a particular setting. I have various shutters to work with as well. Some are taller than others and some are wide and some are skinny.

I borrowed these pictures from the Internet of some of the things I find interesting but they really aren't grabbing me they way I want them too. There has to be other uses that some of you ladies have created. Maybe I'm wishing for too much here but I know there are some talented bloggers out there and someone will have a perfect idea for me.

This looks like maybe it would be the easiest to make. You could take a regular shelf and nail it on the top of your shutter. I bet you could even add pegs to the bottom of it as well.

This is probably my most favorite piece. I would have to make it smaller because I don't have a shutter as large as the top of this one. Still it would make a nice side table.

I don't totally love this idea. It just looks too much like shutters to me.

This is nice and doesn't look like it would be too complicated to put together either. I bet if I had wide enough shutters I could make a garbage can out of it too with a removable top instead of the open door.

Hopefully one of you ladies can give me some guidance and suggestions. I look forward to anything you have to offer. If you do have pictures, please email them to me. I would love to see what you have created.

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend. Hopefully the sun is shining where you are and the rain is holding off.

Warm hugs and blessings to all,

AMY

Sale Going On

2011-06-28T09:41:00.003-04:00

Ladies I was asked by my friend Janice at http://blackcreekprimitives.blogspot.com/ if I would post on her blog sale she has going on right now. She is selling off some of her extra crafting items. A few things have sold but there is still plenty left to choose from. Hopefully she will be adding more things today.

If you have time, stop by and visit her. She is a great crafter and her things are quality made. She even has some material for sale if you like making your own things. Below are a few of the items Janice still has listed and at very reasonable prices!

Have a glorious day friends,

Warm hugs and well wishes,

AMY

Run Don't Walk!!!

2011-06-27T15:47:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon friends. I'm hoping this post works. My friend Anne from http://seasonsofthepast.blogspot.com/ is having an awesome giveaway. All you have to do is click on this link to take you there. She has posted the rules for all to see.

Annie has a fabulous blog and she has a website that is just as wonderful. http://www.humbleheartsandhomes.com/ Be sure to stop by and visit Anne when you have the time. I promise you will not be disappointed.

Here are the prizes that you might win if she picks your name. I know I want my name in that basket for sure.

I hope everyone is having lovely weather. Until next time!

Hugs and blessings,

AMY

Taking Time Off

2011-06-22T10:57:00.003-04:00

Good Wednesday to all my blogging friends. I have had so many issues with blogger that I am finally getting fed up with it all. I cannot comment on most posts and half the stuff on my blog isn't showing up anymore so it has beat me down.

I am taking a break from my own blogging and please anyone that I follow, know that I have tried faithfully to comment on your blogs but sometimes it just won't let me. I have tried everything and nothing seems to work. I can't even get to some of the emails to send messages that I am trying. I have no clue what is going on anymore.

I hope this post finds everyone well and I pray for a beautiful and glorious summer for everyone. If things ever get back to normal, I will try blogging again.

Hugs and blessings,

~AMY~

Porch Decorating Inspiration Needed

2011-05-26T10:30:00.012-04:00

(wishful thinking)
Not My Porch

Good Thursday friends and followers. I've been wanting to freshen up my front porch for some time now. I couldn't think of a better time to do it than now. With Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day upon us, I thought a Patriotic Theme would carry over for several months and I would only have to make a few minimal changes over that period of time.

I tried to pick some Internet pictures that might work with some things I already have. My mother in law gave me an old wagon that could be used for a display similar to this one. Of course I would have to paint it. It is a bright yellow wagon.

I have a larger galvanized tub that would handle a display like this one. Anyone know of a good place to pick up flags at a cheap price?

I know I have some bunting but I don't think we have our regular flag anymore. Maybe it would work just as well hanging at the end of the porch. What do you think?

This would make a beautiful door hanger. I know I should have an old wreath somewhere that I could take apart and add blue and red flowers too. Any ideas for making the firecracker for the middle?

I believe I am on the right track with my ideas but I can always use a little help from fellow decorators. I have a few other pieces here and there that I could incorporate as well I suppose. If memory serves me, I have a flag throw, some flag pillows and maybe a mat or two. Possibly a rug or two in red or blue? I welcome all ideas.

Well I'm off to dig out some decorations. Maybe I will get in some shopping this evening if you guys come up with some good ideas for me!

Hugs and blessings,

~AMY~

Helping A Friend Out

2011-05-20T11:00:00.006-04:00

Good Friday afternoon Ladies. I'm trying to help a friend out here today with this post. My friend Janice is having a sale on her blog to clear our some of her handmade goods. Right now she is selling a lot of 12 handmade dolls for $100.00 plus shipping. Here are 4 of the dolls that will be included in the lot of 12.

They are truly well made. I have a few of her creations and I am satisfied with everything I have purchased. Here is the link to her blog. http://blackcreekprimitives.blogspot.com/ She will try to post her other for sale things as she has time. She is a very busy business woman so keeping posts updated might be hard for her. Add her to your blog favorites and you will know when she adds new things.

I hope if you have some time you will stop over to her blog and check out what she lists. I know you will not be disappointed. Have a joyous day!

Blessings,

AMY

Prom 2011

2011-05-06T23:01:00.005-04:00

Good Friday evening everyone. I was too excited about this post to wait until tomorrow morning to share. My baby girl attended her first prom this evening. Her daddy and I couldn't have been more proud of the way she looked.

This picture is of Allison and her big brother Aaron. (By the way, Aaron graduates from college next week. Thank you Lord.)
You can click on the pictures if you would like to view them on a full screen. I think they look better that way. They show more detail.

Here Allison is posing with my mother. I think mom looks fabulous for 84 years old. That's my oldest brother in the back ground. Sorry I cut your head off Gary.

Allison's date CJ was on the prom court therefore he is wearing a sash with his tux. He may not have won the title of King but we thought he should have.

This is the monster truck Allison had to crawl up into wearing her 4 inch heels with that huge full dress. Thanks for the step ladder CJ. You are one smart young man.

Here we are outside posing with friends. CJ, Allison, Calen and Tyler. These are four very wonderful kids to say the least.

My baby girl and CJ right before they left for the prom.

Just beautiful!
Allison loved the back of her hair and her dress so of course we had to get a picture.

Thanks for letting me share a proud mommy moment with you all. I'm just sitting here now waiting for the kids to return home. The afterprom is tomorrow at an indoor water park. I think that sounds like a lot of fun.

Have a blessed weekend,
~AMY~

~Thanks to Anne~

2011-04-22T12:58:00.005-04:00

Good Friday Afternoon Friends. I bet you all think I got lost somewhere. You know sometimes I wish I could. I have been so busy running around to my daughters softball practices/games, school events and getting ready for her prom that I haven't had much time for myself. I'm not complaining because I love doing things for my family but I have just been running every which way lately.

Well let's get right to what this post is about shall we. I have desperately been wanting to make over my kitchen for almost a year now. It just isn't in the budget at this time. Well I cannot take the way my kitchen looks anymore so I have decided on a rather inexpensive make over to get me thru to the big one.

You see I want to change out my counter tops, install hardwood flooring, change out my sink and appliances and move my island. This all takes money of which I don't have. I have thought about it for some time now and decided to just tackle what I hate most about my kitchen. I believe I can get away with some new paint, curtains and accessories.

We won't have time to start anything until after softball season and the prom but I have decided that when we do get started, I am just going to paint the walls, add chair rail and make new curtains. These changes will also work with my big makeover should it ever happen.

I have been looking for black stripe ticking material for my curtains. I posted something about this on facebook earlier this week asking if anyone knew of a discount material site to purchase it from. I think maybe I got two suggestions. Well luckily this morning, I was reading some of my favorite blogs and low and behold Anne from http://seasonsofthepast.blogspot.com/ just posted her bedroom makeover and she listed where she bought the black stripe ticking she purchased for the curtains she made. I immediately clicked on the link and ordered me some for my curtains. Anne says the material isn't real thick but that will be perfectly fine. I don't need to block the outside with them because we live in the woods. Not much of a chance anyone will be looking in my windows out there. The kitchen is on the backside of the house so the sun doesn't shine too bright there either during the day. I am so grateful for Anne's blog post today. She made my day. Here is a little sample of what it looks like.

I promise to keep you updated as we progress with the kitchen make over and I'm sure I will be asking for lots of advice along the way. Thank you to those that continue to follow my blog even though I haven't been very faithful in my posting lately. I really appreciate and love each and everyone of you!

In closing, I want to wish you all a Happy Easter. May you get to spend some good quality time with your families. Remember Easter is not about the candy and Easter Bunny! It is that of honoring and recognizing Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead, and His glorious promises of eternal life for all who believe in Him.

~Happy Easter To All~
AMY

Giveaway You Won't Want To Miss

2011-03-24T09:29:00.005-04:00

Here is a giveaway that you won't want to miss. Head on over to http://cedarcreekprimssellingblog.blogspot.com/ before April 8th to sign up for a chance to win these fabulous Springtime/Easter Goodies.

I hope everyone is having a great week!

Hugs,

AMY

New 5th Wheel

2011-02-23T11:03:00.006-05:00

Who says you can't pick out your new camper in the dead of winter! Certainly not my husband! We have been wanting to make a few upgrades to the 5th wheel we currently had but I however didn't think winter was the most appropriate time to do it. Hubby had other thoughts! He found this 5th wheel on the dealer's website that we bought our last one from and he knew immediately this one was it and we had to have it. It is slightly larger than the one we had. The upgrades are a master bedroom slide, hookup for a washer and dryer (if you can imagine that) and table and chairs in the kitchen area. Oh and lets not forget the state of the art air mattress with its own pump in the couch bed! Woo Woo!

Here she is....

The kitchen area is the most important part of the camper to me. I must have room to cook and do dishes. Counter top area is a woman's best friend when camping in my opinion. Just look at these beautiful cherry cabinets that I will be able to fill up with all kinds of good camping food! The counter tops are just beautiful. Bull nose finish and its all one piece.

In the far corner of the kitchen, there is even a hidden trash compartment cut out of the counter that you can hide your garbage can in and empty it from the outside of the camper. The fridge has so much storage room. Another important part of the camper to me.

Here's an overview of the living/dining area. I just love the table and chairs. The cushions always fell down on the booth seats in our other trailer and I hated that. Of course we lost a bed for someone by making this change but I am fine with that. The colors are sage and tan. For some reason these pictures make the tan look very light. It is a bit darker than it appears.

Next we have my chaise lounge. I can see myself taking a nice nap on this bugger while hubby is out on a fishing trip or something less than exciting!

This view is looking up towards the nose of the camper to the master bedroom. Notice the nice flat screen. It came with the camper. My daughter thought that was the best part.

Look up, you get just a tiny glimpse of the ceiling fan. Yes I said ceiling fan. I have never seen a camper with a ceiling fan. I just thought that was a hoot!

Here is the master bed with the slide out. The mirrored closet is huge. This is also where your washer and dryer would go. Now trust me I won't be buying a set either. I have no problem running to the laundry facility to do our laundry. I meet so many nice people while doing laundry at the campgrounds. I'm not about to give that experience up.

We even have our own dresser in the bedroom. The counter tops are just beautiful. Very elegant looking.

Last but not least the bathroom. Full stand up shower and a porcelain toilet. No plastic throne in this camper. I feel like royalty!

Well I hope you enjoyed the tour. We will be heading to Tennessee and Myrtle Beach this summer for our yearly vacation. This year it will just be hubby and I and our teenage daughter. Our son is too busy with work to go. Pray for me! We will be taking another young teenage girl along with us. My daughter talked us into bringing a friend this year. I have a feeling this could get very interesting. Let's not forget that this friend is also a vegetarian. Wow cooking for a non meat eater for 2 1/2 weeks. Good thing she will eat seafood. That should help somewhat!

Take care and I hope everyone has a pleasant week ahead.

Hugs,
AMY

~Fruit and Vegetable Ideas Needed~

2011-02-21T10:56:00.008-05:00

Good Monday morning friends. I am on a mission and I'm hoping there is someone out there that can help me find what I am looking for. For months now possibly even longer, I have envisioned my oak cupboard in my kitchen

filled with jars of canned goods. I have several jars of dried apples, oranges, lemons and limes currently in my cupboard but I would like to have some jars of other fruits and vegetables to go along with the ones I have already done. There has to be some way to recreate this look without wasting more food.

Friends I ask if any of you know of anyone that could make fruits and vegetables from either material or wax that would hold up over time in jars and look like real food to please comment and let me know where to look? I so want to see my cupboard filled with canned goods. I just know this would look so prim and wonderful.

I am open for any and all suggestions. Just leave a comment at the end of this post. I thank you in advance for any ideas you may have.

Hugs,
AMY

Past and Present Giveaway Wins

2011-02-13T20:09:00.003-05:00

Good Monday Morning Everyone! The snow is melting, the wind is blowing and the temperature is rising! It looks like it might be a good week here in North Eastern Ohio. At least I hope its going to be.

I finally got a chance to post about all the goodies I have received recently in giveaways. Let me start with my floor cloth. Now there is a story to go along with this one. I won this from Anne at http://www.seasonsofthepast.blogspot.com/. I actually won this back in November or December. On Anne's first attempt to get it to me, the mail let us down. Anne messaged me that she sent it out and I waited and waited never thinking I wasn't going to get it. After about a month, she contacted me to let me know that she had the floor cloth returned to her by the post office and it was crushed and marked. She decided she had to create me a new one because of the unfixable things that had occurred to the first one in shipping. Low and behold I got my winnings in January and here it is. Definitely worth waiting for don't you think? I had Anne choose a print that she enjoyed stenciling. For right now I just have it in front of my crock stand. I would like it to go in my kitchen but I don't want to use it in there until we re-do the kitchen, I don't think it would look good with greens and reds. One day it will be in its proper home. Thank you so much Anne for not giving up on getting this to me. I absolutely love it and I so appreciate it.

Here's a close up of the floor cloth so you can see its detail and color.
Next I won this adorable Valentine Creation and Candle from Amy at http://bumblebeelanecottage.blogspot.com/. It is actually the 1st Valentine decoration that I have ever had. I have it displayed on a shelf in my living room. I took the delicious Vanilla Caramel candle to work to make my office smell a bit better. I work in a garage and sometimes the smells are less than desirable in there! Thanks so much Amy for picking me to win.

Last but certainly not least, I won this fabulous vacuum cover designed by Sandy at http://oldecountrycupboard.blogspot.com/. She is just beautiful. Almost life like. What a way to make an ugly vacuum look pretty don't you think.

I feel so blessed to win such fabulous things. There are so many talented ladies out there that are so giving of their time and talents. I pray that God blesses each of the ladies I have mentioned above with a little extra special something this week.

In closing, I want to wish everyone a Happy Valentines Day!

Hugs,

AMY

Swappin In The New Year

2011-02-06T17:21:00.002-05:00

Hello Fellow Bloggers! I know I have been away for a while but only with my postings. I've been trying to keep up with all of my followers blogs but I just haven't had time to do much with mine. I am going to try and make it a point to start posting more. Everyone has been so faithful with reading what I have to say that I don't want to make you think you made a mistake signing on to follow me and then I fall off the boards.

My first post this year is on the most recent swap I participated in. Tammy over at http://aprimitiveplace.blogspot.com hosted this swap and we were to send a doll and at least two more thing to our swap partners. I was blessed to have Judy from http://prim2pink.blogspot.com/ as my partner. Be sure and check out her blog if you aren't already one of her followers. She is an amazing woman who loves her family to death. You won't be disappointed in what she has to say.

Judy sent me some fabulous hand made goodies. Look at all these wonderful things!!!

I know Judy had a hard time parting with this candle holder she painted. There is an adorable little lamb in the center of it. I find the little ladybug doll to be absolutely precious. My daughter tried to claim her but I put my foot down.

Judy even included a little shamrock for St. Paddy's Day and some Valentine Kleenex. Wasn't that sweet of her!

I am totally loving this crow spring make do. I love crows and this was immediately placed on my mantle.

I think you can see the details of the candle holder a little better in this picture. Click on the picture to enlarge it to see its full detail.

Thank you Judy for being so gracious with your giving and for sharing your talents with me. I am truly blessed each time I participate in a swap. I have made friends with some wonderful and talented ladies.

I'm hoping to do another post this week on a couple of giveaways I have won. I have been so lucky lately with all my wins. It is a fabulous way to get my home decorated.

Blessings to everyone,
~AMY~

More Random Livingroom Pictures

2010-12-06T21:20:00.010-05:00

Well if you can stand more pictures, I would like to share with you some extra shots of my living room. I wish I knew how to put these pictures in order but for some reason my computer is way to complicated for me to understand. No clue why this post is underlined either. I hope you enjoy the pictures.

This is a whale tail hanger I purchased recently with a Santa I won in a giveaway.

I just love this display on top of my spoon carved dresser.

I bought this little Snowman at one of my favorite prim shops. The railroad lantern was given to me by a friend for my birthday last year.

Okay, the underlining is coming and going. What's up with that?
This is a shot of my ugly green cabinet with a couple of snowmen displayed in it .

This stands holds my lovely television.

Don't you just adore these stockings. I received them from a textile swap.

Again my ugly green cupboard. I love the basket I have on top. It has to be one of my most treasured pieces.

This was a quick throw together basket my mother in law made for me. She is so creative and I love everything she puts together for me.

Random candle holder from a swap from the past.

This is my crock cupboard. It is also one of my favorite pieces.

This planter is from my daddy's funeral two years ago. I have managed to keep it alive and I am so thankful for that.

I love this old pop crate. I really had no idea how to decorate it though.

Another snowman display I put together. It it hanging from a wreath hanger. I love the wooden box it is in.

I'm hoping to get my kitchen pictures taken and posted later this week. We have been so busy around our house. It seems like there isn't much time left to do anything extra these days. I'm sure you all know how that is.

I've so much enjoyed sharing my Christmas pictures with everyone. I love all the comments that are left for me as well. Each one is very special to my heart. I have been blessed by so many blogging friends and its nice to be able to share my home with you.

Have a blessed week,
AMY

~Getting There~

2010-12-05T17:29:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone. I am almost done with my Christmas Decorating and I thought I would share a few pictures with you. I will have more later on this week. I hope you don't mind if I slipped in a couple pictures of my daughter as well. Allison attended her High School Snowball Dance this Saturday with a very special friend of hers. She is a Freshman and Chad is a Junior. Chad's mom used to babysit Allison when she was in 1st grade. Chad would make sure she got on and off the bus safely. He was very protective of her. This is Allison being silly before we left to take her to Chads house .

Here she is at Chads house. They looked so nice together. Oh to be that young again. Right now it just makes me feel old.

Well here is my wonderful German Twig Tree. I absolutely love it. My fruit looks so good on it as well. Again my family thinks it a bit odd but I just can't stop looking at it.

This is one of my favorite displays. So simple but pretty,

Comfy place to sit and relax.

I tried to keep the fireplace simple this year but I just didn't know what to leave off.

Well that's it for now friends. I have been down with a cold all weekend and I really haven't felt good. Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to get more living room pictures posted as well as the kitchen and family room.

Have a blessed week. Until next time....

Hugs,
AMY

~Give Thanks~

2010-11-24T09:41:00.005-05:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL....And may we each take the time to count our blessings and give thanks for what the Lord has so abundantly blessed us with.

~I have so many things in my life to be thankful for. I have been blessed beyond my wildest dreams. The Lord has been so good to me and my family.~

Here are the words to a wonderful chorus we sing at church. It has so much meaning of what we are to be Thankful for. I'm sorry but I don't know who wrote this chorus.

GIVE THANKS WITH A GRATEFUL HEART

GIVE THANKS TO THE HOLY ONE

GIVE THANKS FOR HE HAS GIVEN JESUS CHRIST, HIS SON

AND NOW LET THE WEAK SAY I AM STRONG

LET THE POOR SAY I AM RICH

BECAUSE OF WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE FOR US

GIVE THANKS...

I want to close this with a BIG Thanks to all my friends and followers of my blog. I appreciate each and every one of you and I love reading your comments you leave for me. I hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and you get to spend some special quality time with your families.

Warm Hugs and Blessings,
AMY

Sugar and Cinnamon Pantry Cakes

2010-11-22T11:05:00.002-05:00

Sorry no pictures yet but I have a quick question. I made pantry cakes out of white sugar, spices and water. They don't look too bad but they are very sugary looking. I am going to let the dry for one more day to be sure they are solid. Here's my question. Is there a way to make them not look so grainy? Should I dip them in wax, rub them with something or spray a clear coat on them maybe? They just don't have the look I was after I guess.

Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated. If they ever look the way I want them to, I will post some pictures of them in my displays. If they continue to look the way they do, they will probably go in the trash and no I won't be taking pictures of that!

Thanks in advance friends. Have a fantastic fall like day.
Warm Fuzzy Hugs,
~AMY~

I GOT MY TREES!!!!!!!

2010-11-11T08:25:00.003-05:00

** Beware.....Poor Picture Quality but I tried.**

Well my trees finally arrived and I couldn't be happier with them. I was afraid they wouldn't look like I had envisioned them to look like. The picture on the website just wasn't clear or big enough for me to see so I could be sure. For the price, I took a chance. Finally my chance paid off for me. Her is one of my trees fresh out of the box and set up. Some of the branches need adjusted but I just got so excited and I wanted to share it with you now.

Here is a close up of the branches. They are the most perfect dull color of green and the brown sprigs that jute out from the branches just make the tree. I must confess that my family was not as thrilled with my trees as I was. My husband said they look like "Charlie Brown" Christmas Trees. My son just shook his head at it. He is not big on words when it comes to my love of the primitive look. Now my daughter is very vocal. She asked what I was thinking when I bought these trees. She said all her friends will look at these trees and think we are poor. Oh how funny is that. I loved their reactions! They were pretty much exactly what I had expected!

I've been drying apples and oranges all week too. Some will adorn my trees and some I made just to put into jars for decoration. They look so good even though this picture does not do them justice.

This picture got out of order somehow. These are my cinnamon icicles I won/bought from Melissa at Farm Field Primitives and Goods. I absolutely love them and they smell just so heavenly. They too go on my new trees.

Just another shot of my dried fruit. I only had to throw away one batch I made. I was in a hurry and thought I would cook dinner at the same time I was drying these. I turned the stove up to accommodate my casserole and told myself I would watch the fruit very carefully. Well I didn't do as good as I had hoped and I baked my fruit and then it burnt. I should know better but I was hoping it would work. I promise I have learned my lesson. One thing at a time goes much more smoothly.

I want to thank all my followers and especially my new followers for taking the time to read my blog. I have met so many wonderful people along the way. I have learned that a few of my fellow bloggers shop at the same places I do and they don't live all that far from me. One day I would like to meet some of them in person. Wouldn't that just be a blast!

Until next time....
Blessings,
AMY

~My WONDERFUL Weekend~

2010-11-08T08:51:00.003-05:00

This weekend I was fortunate to find two new wonderful places to shop for some fabulous prims for my home. They are both located in Augusta, Ohio. Both businesses are housed at Manfull Orchards Farm Market. The first shop I entered was Farm Girl Finds. I borrowed these pictures from the owner since my camera is still not working properly. There were so many amazingly beautiful things in her shop that I would have loved to have bought. My 14 year old daughter went with me and all I can say is "What was I thinking!" She complained from the minute we stepped thru the door that I didn't need anymore prims in our home. She is a modern girl and does not understand my passion for prims. I bought her some sugar cookies so that kept her quite for a little while.

This tree was beautiful. I would have liked to have bought every ornament on it.

You had to be there to see the real beauty of all these wonderful things.

Everything was displayed just perfectly. There was so much to look at. This Santa Picture was great. I may have to go back and see if it is still there. He just looked like he was keeping an eye on the shop.

Now on to what I bought. Sorry about the quality of these pictures. They once again were taken with my cell phone. Everything looks dull and muted but you will get the gist of how fabulous everything is.

I definitely need to get my camera fixed. These pictures are almost depressing they look so washed out. Trust me everything is much better in person.

Maybe I will just leave everything displayed on this table like it is now. I kind of like it all grouped together. Just kidding!

These ticking pillows are just so prim and perfect. I hope to have them in my bedroom when I get to redoing it. I have the perfect little bench to display them on.

I definitely want to go back and buy a couple more of these adorable trees. I purchased this from Manfulls. It was only $14. I thought that was a great price. Wouldn't they look perfect in a bathroom just to add a small festive touch.

I have wanted a small prim clock for on top of my living room mantle for a long time. How do you think this will look? Not quite sure yet where I want my spool candle holders but I'm sure I will find a spot for them somewhere.

These bigger spool candle holders and cubby will be going in my kitchen. The candles will go in some sort of Christmas arrangement on the table and I'm sure the tall cubby will be hung on the wall somewhere.

I'm planning on putting this little cupboard in my master bath to hold or should I say hide all our toiletries. I think it will look prim perfect in there. Again not sure where this candle holder will go but I know I will find the perfect spot for it.

I hope you enjoyed looking at my great finds. If you are ever in the area of August, be sure and stop at both of these shops. I know you won't be disappointed.

Blessings to all my friends new and old. I hope everyone has a productive week filled with fun.

I have a Christmas Open House to attend this coming weekend and another one the following weekend. I can't wait to find some more goodies that I just have to have. I will be sure and post if I find anything good. Which I'm sure I will.

Take care everyone!

Hugs, AMY

German Twig Tree Question??

2010-10-27T10:34:00.004-04:00

Ladies I am looking to change up my choice of Christmas Trees this year. I want my trees to have more of a primitive appearance. I decided to go with the German Twig or German Vienna Twig Tree. I have searched the Internet for days looking for the best price and so far I am leaning towards http://www.christmascentral.com/. Here is a tree from their site.
It looks like what I am looking for but it says in the description it has green and brown branches. I thought German Twig Trees had all brown branches. Does anyone out there use this kind of tree at Christmas? Do you know of a better site to purchase these trees from maybe? The 5 foot tree is $59.99 and the 6 foot tree is $84.99. I am wanting one of each size. This was the most reasonably priced site I found for these trees. My vision is to adorn my trees with the brown cord lights, popcorn and berry garland (which is another item I am searching for at a discount price) and dried fruits (again another needed item).

Let me know what you think about this tree and if you have any suggestions for where I might look further. I believe the shipping was free on this site but I will look that over better if I order from there.

Have a fabulous day everyone and I am praying that all my blogging friends are safe after all the storms that have been hitting everywhere.

Blessings,
AMY

*** I FORGOT TO ADD THAT I WILL BE HANGING MY CINNAMON ICICLES THAT I BOTH WON AND PURCHASED FROM MELISSA AT FARM FIELD PRIMITIVE GOODS ON MY TREE AS WELL. THEY ARE FABULOUS!!

So Very Blessed

2010-10-25T09:29:00.003-04:00

I cannot count the many times I have been blessed by winning giveaways from so many special blogging friends. As luck would have it, I have won a few more times. This gives me such pleasure that I could just burst. It is so nice receiving special things in the mail and the best part is they are free. I can adorn my home with things I so dearly love and I don't have to justify the expense. Does it get any better than that!!

Well a few weeks back I won a giveaway from Linda at http://parkersparadise.blogspot.com/. My prize was to be some past issues of Country Sampler Magazine. Linda asked me if I was a subscriber to the magazine and since I was, she adjusted my winnings. That was the most thoughtful gesture ever. Linda I need to apologize for this picture though. My camera is not working so I chopped one of the pictures from your blog to show my cinnamon corn bowl fillers. You really need to see them in person to take in all the detail of them. I also received a cookbook. Sorry no picture of it. I have an addiction to cookbooks and this one was fabulous. I love down home recipes and this cookbook fit the bill. Thank you Linda for hosting this giveaway and for drawing my name.

On to my next win. Melissa from http://farmfieldprimitives.blogspot.com/, hosted this next giveaway and she had two prizes to win. I was the lucky recipient of this fabulous prize.

Again I had to borrow this picture from Melissa's site. I hope no one minds me doing this. I have never owned a prim Santa and this little guy is just so precious. I'm anxious to add him to my Christmas decor this year. The second gift I received were these cinnamon icicles to hang on my tree. I was so impressed with them that I had to order three more sets from Melissa from her selling blog http://www.farmfieldprimitivegoods.blogspot.com/.

I want to thank both of these ladies for being so generous with their talents and their giving. Please stop and visit both of their blogs and sign on to be followers if you aren't already. They both have such wonderful things to write about and I know you will be glad you did.

Blessings to all,

AMY

~Fall Swap Goodies Have Arrived~

2010-10-05T08:16:00.010-04:00

Good Tuesday morning friends. Isn't this time of year just beautiful. I love the smell of fall, the vibrant colors it brings with it and most of all the crisp mornings. Now I'm not big on the rain, cold and windy afternoons and the shorter days. I guess we can't have everything we want so I should just accept what I cannot change.

I want to share with you the Fall Swap Goodies I recently received from my new friend Vicki at http://thehogscaldholler.blogspot.com/. Vicki is a very talented crafter. I was thrilled when I received my package from her last week. Sorry once again for the poor picture quality. I am still taking them with my cell phone. I don't' know what is up with our darn camera. I want to get a new one but I really can't justify the purchase at this time.

First up is my little birdhouse. I'm not sure if Vicki made it or not. I love it either way.

This basket was what held all my goodies that Vicki sent. I have some apples somewhere that I want to add to it with maybe a nice homespun bow attached to it. Now if I just knew where I put the darn things. Don't you just love the little heart pin keep on the spool. What a sweet idea. Also included was this little cat made from wool. The leaf with the acorn on it is a pin. It is going right on my coat after I get this post done. What a perfect little gift it was.

This next little pumpkin has to be my favorite. There is just something so sweet about it. I had to get a close up of it so you could see the detail.

Here is my pumpkin with the rest of my mantle grouping.

I just love this rusty looking grasshopper. I have the perfect rock outside to perch it on but I think I will wait for spring to set it out. As for the birds nest, I believe I have a sweet little bird in my stash of goodies that will look just perfect in it.

This berry wreath is so nice. I thought it added something to this picture so I am probably keeping it where it is.

Thank you Vicki for everything you sent. I loved it all. I really appreciate the time you took making these things for me. I will treasure them and think of you every time I look at them.

I hope everyone has a beautiful fall like day.

Hugs and Blessings to all.
~AMY~

Football Homecoming!

2010-09-27T09:49:00.005-04:00

With tears in my eyes, I watched my beautiful teenage daughter attend her first High School Dance. She was absolutely beautiful. I sure don't remember doing things up like this for my first Football Homecoming. Boy how the times have changed.

These are a bit out of order. Sorry I can't control my blog.

This is Allison with Alexis and her date Tom. Tom is the son of one of my best friends that I went to school with. Funny when your kids grow up to be freinds with the kids of your old classmates.

This is at dinner. Allison decided to attend without a date however she did go with a fabulous group of friends.

Allison and Alexis at the dance. Aren't they both just so beautiful! Just noticed Alexis's tie. I don't think it was part of her original outfit!

Here is half of the friends that went. Not sure where the picture of the other half got off too.

Sorry this picture is sideways. Allison is the cheerleader and she is standing next to her best friend Calen. Calen was crowned Freshman Attendant during half time of the football game.

I don't like having my picture taken but I was so proud to be standing next to my baby girl!

Thanks for taking the time to look at these pictures. A little bragging time for momma never hurt anybody!

Hugs to all,

AMY

Bittersweet Question

2010-09-24T13:52:00.005-04:00

I suppose I should have asked this question before I made my purchase but I always do things backwards. Does anyone that buys Bittersweet know if this purchase was a good deal or not? Did I buy quality Bittersweet and did I get it at a good price?
Here's the Ebay link where I purchased it from. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=170541866812&Category=38232&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26its%3DI%26otn%3D2. It is described very well and the seller has a good rating. I have never purchased Bittersweet before and now I'm worried that I didn't buy the right thing.

I would appreciate any comments or input anyone has.

Thanks in advance.

Blessings ~AMY~

~Wood Anyone~

2010-09-21T09:23:00.004-04:00

Can anyone guess what my plans are for this weekend???????

My hubby finally found the time to get my boards cut so I can try out all my new stencils from http://www.folkartfromtheharbor.com/. BeCca has the best stencils around. She even does custom stencils if you can't find what you are looking for from her everyday stock. Be sure to check out her site and see if she has any stencils that might excite you.

I'm thinking once I get my signs and game boards done, I might just try my hand at selling some of them and better yet, I think it would be the perfect thing to offer up for a giveaway. It is definitely time for me to give back to the blogging friends I have been blessed by numerous times over.

Stay tuned for my progress....

Fall Blessings,
AMY

Caramel Apples Anyone!

2010-09-20T08:54:00.009-04:00

Well I finally got my caramel apples all finished up and bagged. I need to do something with my tags yet but that can be done at anytime. I didn't come up with this idea originally myself. Several blogging friends are one step ahead of me. Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch was the first one I know of that did these and next was Donna at One Simple Country Girl (she has step by step instructions on her blog) and then Gina at Cat Nap Inn Primitives.

These were two of my favorite apples.

You might notice that these next apples could have used another coat of paint. They would have received one only I added my nuts before I noticed they were lacking paint and by then it was too late to add more. Hey, I never said I was a perfectionist.

This is my favorite picture.

See how even the most notable caramel apple eater could be fooled.

These apples are so realistic looking that I had to give my family and friends notice that they they were fake! All you need for this project is faux apples, crafters paint, Modge Podge Glue, sticks, cat litter and bags and ribbon to wrap them in. It seems to be that most crafters used Corn Cob Cat Litter for the nuts on their apples but I was unable to find any of this anywhere around where I lived. I knew I needed to use something that would not be mouse friendly when I packed them away so I came up with a nut idea of my own. We have tons of acorns in our yard so I popped the nuts out of the caps and crushed the caps up to use for my nuts. They took on more of a walnut appearance on my apples.

First you need to attach your sticks to the center of your apples. I used a sharp knife to make a hole in the top of my apples and I took sticks from the yard that I cut to the size I wanted and inserted them in the hole. Next you will mix your glue with enough paint to get the color you want for your apple. You know I bet you could use red paint if you wanted a candy apple look too. Never thought about that until just now. Once you have your glue and paint the color you want, just spoon it over the apple letting it run all the way down to the bottom of the apple. When you have enough paint on to resemble caramel, sprinkle on your make shift nuts. Let these dry overnight for best results. When dry you can bag them up and add ribbon and tags for a more realistic look.

I really love how they turned out. I made some look like caramel and some had a chocolate look to them. I used both green and red apples for mine.

I believe I prefer the green ones over the red ones. I think they just had a more realistic look to me.

This is a chocolate apple.

This is a caramel apple.
Set them out and your guests will be amazed that they aren't real. I enjoyed making these. Its great to think outside the box and be creative.

I hope everyone is having some nice fall like weather. I am actually enjoying the cooler evenings here in Ohio.

Blessings, ~AMY~

Latest Project

2010-09-13T09:23:00.007-04:00

You will remember in my last post, I promised to tell you about our latest kitchen project. Well here it is. My hubby installed an over the stove microwave for me. My old one sat on the counter taking up a huge amount of space. When I received my new appliance covers, I needed the counter space to display them. Thus the microwave had to be put somewhere else. This was the perfect solution to my problem. I would say it took my husband maybe two hours to install this. He had to remove the stove hood first in order to get it into place. We did not change out the overhead cupboards to make it flush at the bottom either. I don't mind that the microwave hangs a little lower than the cupboards beside it. It is the perfect height for everyone to reach it. I just love it where it is.

Please forgive the poor quality of the picture. My digital camera is not working so my daughter took this picture with her cell phone and sent it to me. We had no idea what the picture would look like because she dropped here phone while on vacation and the screen broke. She took this picture without being able to see it first. I see a glare from the back wall appearing in the microwave front. I think you can still see the concept of what we did. Can't wait to see what project we can come up with next. I'm thinking something along the lines of granite, mustard paint and wood?? Honey are you reading this???

I hope everyone is enjoying this week. Here in Ohio we have been having some beautiful weather. The temperature is averaging the mid to low 70's and it is just beautiful out. I wish it could stay like this all year round. In closing, I want to wish everyone a delightful week ahead. I'm trying to get inspired and start decorating for fall. One thing I did get accomplished is I made some faux caramel apples for decoration. Seems like everyone has been doing this as well. I will post later when I get them all dried and wrapped.

Until next time.....

Hugs and Blessings,

~AMY~

Now Where Did They Go! What is this?

2010-09-10T08:33:00.004-04:00

Good morning everyone. I hope your day got off to a better start than mine. I got up this morning and wanted to make myself some toast for breakfast. Well gee, now where did my toaster go? Hmmmm..... Next I needed to feed Bella my 4 legged furry baby girl but I had to open the dog food can first. The can opener seems to be missing as well! Maybe it is ran off with my toaster. Oh here they are. They were hiding behind the most wonderful covers I just purchased from Teresa's ETSY shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop/TeresasPrimTreasures. I am so in love with these pieces. I wish I had taken better pictures to show you but from past posts, I think you all know my photography skills are anything but good. I still think you can see the beauty in each piece. The prices were fantastic and shipping was actually very cheap. These pieces are what I have been so desperately wanting for a very long time. I need to tweak my decorating accessories but I wanted to get the pictures posted now.

Toaster Cover..... Finished in a wonderful mustard color and distressed to perfection.

Can Opener Cover..... Barn Red is the color I believe and it has a fabulous aged finish.
I totally understand why everyone loves appliance covers. I think I may have to check into ordering other covers to put over many other things in my kitchen I would like to disguise!

Okay, next lets move on to the "What Is This".

Holy Bananas Batman!

Momma got a new front load washer and dryer! Oh Yeh!!! Delivered just yesterday! They aren't hooked up yet but I am so anxious to use them. I know what you might think..."Has she lost her mind. Laundry is not fun." Well I hated our old washer and dryer because my clothes always looked dingy and the dryer took forever to get the clothes dried. Imagine how much time and energy I was wasting on waiting for my laundry to get done. Now I should have it finished in half the time it used to take. Plus I can do bigger loads in these buggers. My hubby is building a platform for these to sit on so I don't have to bend down so far. The pedestals that they sold with them were so over priced and he knew he could fabricate something just as nice for them.

I have to say that I am so truly blessed with a wonderful husband. Without his love for me and my happiness, I would not have gotten any of these treasurers. He is so good to me. He is always trying to make me happy and looks for ways to make my daily chores a little easier on me. I hope I show him enough every day just how much I love and appreciate him. Thanks babe I love you!

Please stop back this weekend so I can show you our latest kitchen project. It isn't anything big but I sure do love it.

Blessings and hugs to all.
~AMY~

My Latest Purchase

2010-09-02T09:03:00.004-04:00

I couldn't wait to share with you my latest purchase. Mind you I haven't received my goodies yet but I snagged the pictures from the Ebay seller because I was so excited and I couldn't wait. I found this Ebay seller from one of my favorite blogs. A Primitive Pond at http://primpyourpad3.blogspot.com/.

I've attached the link so if you want to take a look at the selling site, you can go directly there from here. You will not be disappointed that you took the time to view her wares. Talk about being helpful! She wins the prize for this. I am new to Ebay and she made my shopping experience very pleasant. The shop name is Primitive Candle Cupboard. You can go directly there by clicking on this link.
http://shop.ebay.com/primitivecandlecupboard/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=&_trksid=p4340

Thanks for stopping by everyone. When I get my goodies, I will post on where I have displayed them.

Have a wonderful day.

Blessings, AMY

~Look What The Mailman Brought Me~

2010-08-10T21:06:00.005-04:00

Good Tuesday evening everyone. I wanted to share with you some wonderful things that were waiting for me when we returned from our vacation. I was the lucky winner of a birthday giveaway. I won this primtastic bonnet from Jenn at Bittersweet Prims. I kind of won this by default because Jenn had to pick two winners. I'm perfectly fine winning this way. Hey I will take a homemade prim creation any time I can get one! Look at this perfectly prim goody. This is the first bonnet I have ever had. Now I know why so many ladies are fascinated with them. For now it is hanging on the side of a ladder that sits on the hearth of our fireplace. Eventually I will have it hanging from a peg shelf.

Next I participated in another fabulous swap hosted by none other than Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch. This swap was a textile swap. My partner was Tammy from A Primitive Place. I absolutely love everything Tammy sent. She is very passionate about prims and she is also a wonderful crafter. Isn't that swatch of fabric the best. How does something that simple give a girl such pleasure!

These stockings will just be perfect hanging at the fireplace this Christmas. I just think they are so darn precious. I may have to ask Tammy to make me a couple more of them.

This pillow sits on my couch. I love it.

Last but not least, Tammy was very generous with hand towels, fingertip towels and napkins. At least I think they are napkins. I'm really contemplating framing them.
I really want to than Jenn and Tammy for being so generous with their giving. One day soon I will be having a giveaway so I can possibly give back to someone something just as special as they have so graciously given to me.

That's all for now. I think I hear my bed pillow calling me. I hope everyone had a fabulous Tuesday and I hope the week ahead brings you many happy moments and tons of blessings.

Hugs,
AMY

ps. Tammy I'm hoping your swap package makes it to you tomorrow.

Sun, Sand and Seafood

2010-08-08T09:55:00.003-04:00

Sorry but I'm in a bit of a rush here this morning. We just got back this morning at 1:00 am. from a fantastic two week Camping Trip in Myrtle Beach. There is nothing like a glowing suntan from the sun, warm or rather hot sand between your toes and an overabundance of seafood in your tummy! I have so much to post about but right now I hear the camper calling my name saying "Unload me, Unload me." Okay, so maybe that is my hubby I'm hearing. I will try to make it back this evening to let everyone know what has been going on with me.

I have so many friends I need to check on and so many emails to respond too. Two weeks away from the computer is too long!

Later my friend,
Hugs and Blessings,
AMY

~Just Taking The Girls For A Walk~

2010-07-07T14:27:00.003-04:00

Now trust me this is one walk I was not going on. My husband found these two beauties in his garage the other day when he opened the door. Thank heavens he is not afraid of these darling little creatures. I on the other hand want no part of them. Bob is not a killer so he decided that he should release his friends into the back part of our woods. How much do you wanna bet they come back for another visit!

When I first saw him walking thru the yard, I thought he had two chains in his hands. I figured it out rather quickly that they weren't chains when they started coiling up towards him. Chills just shot up my back when I realized what they were. I want to thank my sweety for letting me grab my phone and take a picture of him and his bravery.

I will try to make my next post a little less creepy!

Hugs, AMY

Fabulous Giveaway

2010-06-24T10:36:00.002-04:00

Hey ladies don't miss out on your chance to win these fabulous creations by my friend Janice over at http://amylynnscreations.blogspot.com/. You have until July 27th to sign up.

Enjoy your day.

Blessings,

AMY

New Winnings

2010-06-18T08:43:00.003-04:00

Good Friday morning to everyone everywhere! It is a gorgeous morning in Ohio. I love the sunshine and all it brings. This morning I want to share with you another giveaway I won from Janice at http://blackcreekprimitives.blogspot.com/. I'm sorry but I had to borrow Janice's picture from her blog because my camera battery is dead at the moment and I can't locate the charger. If you haven't had a chance to stop over and visit Janice yet, please make sure you do. She is a great crafter and you just never know what she might have listed for sale. Her prices are pretty reasonable as well. You won't be disappointed you stopped I promise.

I am definitely a crow person and this gift package just fits me perfectly. I placed the crow makedo on my fireplace mantel. The little fabric bags are hanging on knobs in my kitchen. The towel is also hanging in my kitchen above my sink on my old towel hook. I placed the crow picks in with my geranium baskets for a perfect prim touch. The pincushion and bobbins are sitting on one of my end tables for now but they will eventually find their way into my bedroom on my nightstand. Janice also included a little extra gift for me. A little Raggedy Ann doll. She is sitting on a shelf on my television stand.

Janice I cannot thank you enough for your generosity. I love each and every piece you sent. Blessings to you my friend.

I hope everyone has a fantastic day.

Hugs, ~AMY~

DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE

2010-06-10T11:07:00.002-04:00

Hey ladies, stop over at Katy's blog for a chance to win a wonderful Rachel Ray bakeware set. You won't be sorry you did.

http://countryblossom.blogspot.com/2010/06/rachael-ray-bakeware-giveaway.html
Ends 6/17

Blessings,
AMY

No Pictures...Need Advice

2010-05-26T15:33:00.003-04:00

My friend Andy and I were talking this afternoon about making our homes look as "Prim" as we can. Neither of us seem to be able to achieve this look. I'm asking any and all prim decorators out there for their input on what makes a home look prim. Feel free to email me pictures at rcosma@voyager.net if you wouldn't mind sharing your faves with me. I know I follow many many blogs that decorate using the primitive style and I drool over them each and every time I see their homes. Share your thoughts with me. I'm looking for secrets to this type of decorating.

I seem to shop with no plans for the things I buy. I just see something I like and I get it. I find I have too many little things because I either like the price or it just catches my eye at that moment. I need to stop doing this but sometimes I can't help myself.

Now I might add that Colonial style decorating also appeals to me. Do these two styles mix in a cohesive manner? Anyone decorating this way want to share some advice on how I might marry these two styles?

Thanks for listening to me this afternoon. I sure hope someone has some good advice that can get me on the right track.

Anxiously awaiting a response,
Hugs
AMY

Dreaming Big!

2010-05-24T08:17:00.006-04:00

Good Monday morning to everyone! The sun is shining just beautifully here in Ohio this morning and the Weatherman says we are to have a beautiful week ahead of us. Praise the Lord. I've been so waiting for warm sunny days! I've been in a funk lately and I think this is exactly what I need to get me moving!

Today I want to share with you two beautiful cupboards that I would just love to have. They are from Ashley's Primitives. Ashley has given me permission to use her website pictures so I can share them with you. Like they say, if you are gonna dream, you might as well DREAM BIG! Aren't these two pieces just amazing!!

This first one would look absolutely beautiful in my bedroom. I wonder if my husband would feel the same way? I just noticed that rug. Love it! I think Ashley sells these as well.

Now I'm thinking this beauty would look perfect in either my kitchen or possibly my master bath. I'm not really big into the punched tin look on cabinets but I find I'm loving it on this piece.

Both of these pieces along with tons of other fabulous hand made items are available for viewing on Ashley's website. If you have never been to here website make sure you do so soon. The address is http://www.ashleysprimitives.com/. I purchased a fantastic stove board cover from her and I just love it. The workmanship is very good and the prices are even better. I promise you won't be disappointed that stopped to take a look around.

I'm not trying to make excuses here but my days have been pretty busy as of late so I'm not sure how much posting I will get to do this summer. My daughter is playing softball three and sometimes 4 nights a week. In between her games, we try to catch my sons games. He is head umpire for Little League and he also plays softball on a over 21 men's teams 2 nights a week. We go straight from softball to cheerleading and volleyball. Thank goodness hubby and I only had two children. I don't know how we would do it if we would have had more. I come from a family of 10 children and I have to wonder just exactly what mom and dad were thinking!!! I know, things were different then.

I hope everyone has a beautiful week!

Hugs and Blessings,

AMY

~Happy Mother's Day.... Early~

2010-05-07T10:15:00.011-04:00

I knew I wouldn't have time to post this weekend so I'm sending out my wishes a little early. I want to wish everyone a Very Special and Happy Mother's Day . I will be spending the day with my mom. We will be going to church together and then she is coming to my house for a delicious dinner complete with fresh home made strawberry pie.

I wanted to share this story with you that was sent to me in an email. I'm sorry but I do not know who the author is or I would give them proper credit for it. I hope you all enjoy reading this.

Mean Moms

Someday when my children are old enough to understand the logic that motivates a parent,I will tell them, as my Mean Mom told me......

I loved you enough to ask where you were going, with whom, and what time you would be home.

I loved you enough to be silent and let you discover that your new best friend was a creep.

I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours while you cleaned your room, a job that should have taken 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to let you see anger, disappointment, and tears in my eyes. Children must learn that their parents aren't perfect..

I loved you enough to let you assume the responsibility for your actions even when the penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart....

But most of all, I loved you enough to say NO when I knew you would hate me for it.

Those were the most difficult battles of all.. I'm glad I won them, because in the end you won, too. And someday when your children are old enough to understand the logic that motivates parents, you will tell them.

Was your Mom mean?

I know mine was. We had the meanest mother in the whole world!While other kids ate candy for breakfast,we had to have cereal, eggs, and toast. When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch,we had to eat sandwiches. And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was different from what other kids had, too.

Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all times. You'd think we were convicts in a prison. She had to know who our friends were and what we were doing with them.She insisted that if we said we would be gone for an hour, we would be gone for an hour or less.

We were ashamed to admit it, but she had the nerve to break the Child Labor Laws by making us work. We had to wash the dishes, make the beds, learn to cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry, empty the trash and all sorts of cruel jobs.I think she would lie awake at night thinking of more things for us to do.

She always insisted on us telling the truth,the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. By the time we were teenagers, she could read our minds and had eyes in the back of her head.Then, life was really tough!Mother wouldn't let our friends just honk the horn when they drove up. They had to come up to the door so she could meet them.

While everyone else could date when they were 12 or 13, we had to wait until we were 16. Because of our mother we missed out on lots of things other kids experienced. None of us have ever been caught shoplifting, vandalizing other's property or ever arrested for any crime. It was all her fault.

Now that we have left home, we are all educated, honest adults.We are doing our best to be mean parents just like Mom was.I think that is what's wrong with the world today. It just doesn't have enough mean moms!

Happy Mother's Day to Mean Moms Everywhere!!

AMY

My New Additions

2010-05-03T20:54:00.004-04:00

I am so excited about this post. I finally got my cupboard for my canned goods. This is something I have been wanting for a long time now but I could never find one exactly like I wanted for the space I wanted to use it in. Well on Saturday I hit the jackpot. The reason for my shopping trip in the first place was to pick up my cupboard I had in layaway since before Christmas. Low and behold this cupboard was sitting in the corner of the shop calling out my name. So what do you think of it? I just love it and it fits perfectly in my kitchen with the rest of my pieces.

Now here is the cupboard I have had stored away for me. It isn't decorated like I want yet but it is getting there. I also wanted to have both doors open but I kind of misjudged how wide it was. I stole this television from my son (of which he wasn't too happy) because our television we had been using was just too big for the piece. Then I had the issue of where to put the Dish Box. I had to add another stand where my chair used to be just for that purpose. Not real happy about that but it will work for now. So here it is. I just love it.

Here is my over the door candle holder. Actually I had to bend it to fit over the door. It was just a straight handle until I bent it. I had been looking high and low for one that was made for a door but was having no luck. A little imagination and it works perfectly.

I still have a little bit of my mad money left so I'm thinking about getting another cupboard. Keep this under your hat girls because my hubby will kill me if I get another one. We are pretty much out of room at the homestead.

Thanks for sharing your time with me on this post. I am so proud of my new pieces that I couldn't wait to show them off to all of you. Enjoy your week and I hope the sun is shining wherever you live.

Hugs & Blessings,
AMY

Well Here They Are!

2010-04-26T18:45:00.007-04:00

Okay, here they are. These are the signs I worked on last weekend and this weekend past. Again I am having a little bit of trouble selecting colors for my signs but as time goes on, the choices I am making are getting a little better.

I made these signs just for fun. I get such pleasure out of stenciling. It is actually very therapeutic to be perfectly honest with you. Plus it keeps me out of the fridge on the weekends! That is a huge plus.

Again sorry for the picture quality. That's another thing I need to work on.

I'm not to big on this blue color of this Gameboard but at least it makes the words and squares show up pretty good on the dark background.

These signs fit my taste perfectly. I love sheep and coffee. I think they represent both pretty good.

Another favorite of mine are crows. I liked this one so much I had to do two of them at one time. Its funny how the different colors can make them look so different. The Dry Goods sign is just simple enough to suite my taste as well. Its is actually navy blue and not so much the royal blue it looks here in this picture.

The Tic Tac Toe Gameboard is one of my favorites. Again, I love the darker colors so much better on the boards. The 2nd game board is my very least favorite. I think the colors look like throw up. I can say that, I made it!

The Farm Fresh Milk is another one I really like. I stenciled it on a cutting board I traded for a while back. Olde Homestead makes for a nice shelf sitter. It is the perfect size.

These next two signs are pretty basic but I think I like them a lot. You can't really see the worn spots I sanded on them but you can when looking at them in real life. It ages them just right. You can click on the pictures to enlarge them and it does help to see the distressing.

I'm not sure I like the white background in the Red Star Flour board. I might have to try it again in a darker color. Come Gather At Our Table is one of my favorite sayings for a kitchen.

Well that's all I have for now. I hope to get more finished this weekend. In case anyone is interested in where I buy my stencils from, I highly recommend www.folkartfromtheharbor.com and www.homesteadstencilco.com. They both offer
quality stencils at a very affordable price.

Blessings to everyone reading this.
Hugs,
AMY

SIGNS EVERYWHERE!!

2010-04-26T12:57:00.003-04:00

Hey ladies. Anyone interested in looking at the signs I made this weekend and last? Hopefully I will get pictures of them taken tonight after work and then I can get them posted. I think for the most part they turned out pretty nice. I still see lots of room for improvement but for now I think they will work just fine. I am not a perfectionist and I don't quite have the color combinations down yet but I think with each sign I do, I see improvement.

Stay tuned......

Hugs,
AMY

My Summer Swap Goodies Have Arrived!

2010-04-18T15:37:00.002-04:00

I'm telling you girls, things could not get any better for me these days. The last Swap that Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch hosted was a Summer themed Swap. I was paired up with Andy from http://andysprimhome.blogspot.com. Andy is just the sweetest person you could ever want to meet. Andy so wanted to give me something I wanted for my home. She asked me what some of my favorite things were and how I liked to decorate. One of the things that I told her I am passionate about are Sheep. Just take a look at what she sent me would you!

Momma sheep and her three little babies. Aren't these just the sweetest and most primitive sheep you have ever seen! I tell ya I love them to death. Andy thank you so much for having them made for me. I feel so lucky to have them in my home. I will treasure them and think of you always when I look at them.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. It was horribly cold here in Ohio. I thought we had moved into spring!! Guess Mother Nature had other things on her mind this weekend beside warm sunny days.

Blessings to all. Until next time.

Hugs,
~AMY~

What A Wonderful Time We Had!

2010-04-14T20:58:00.003-04:00

Thursday April 1st at 5:30 am, we were on our way to Florida for a much needed vacation. We were headed to Holiday Florida to stay with my mother in law and father in law. They live 6 months in PA and 6 months in FL. We arrived at their summer home around 11:00 pm that evening. This is where they live. It was a really nice place. We had plenty of space and the community they live in is full of wonderful and friendly people. I can't tell you how much we enjoyed our time away. We had a fabulous week of weather. The temperatures pretty much stayed in the high 70's to mid 80's. That is my kind of temperatures.

On our first trip out, this is what we saw. Not my idea of a pet but it was pretty cool to be that close to an alligator. Yes I was the one that took the picture too! I wasn't a bit afraid!!

Next we took a trip out on this boat. It was a tour boat and we headed out to an island to collect seashells. Allison my daughter came back on board with three bags full of shells. Thank goodness we didn't get charged for them. We would have never been able to afford them.

This is Alison and I picking up the shells. Man was it windy on this island.

Here is a fabulous home that we passed on our way around the waters. What I wouldn't give to have a summer home like that to enjoy. Isn't it just beautiful?

On Monday, we went to Disney World. Our park of choice was Magic Kingdom. We were told the park had 42,000 visitors that day. No wonder it took us 2 hours of waiting in each line to ride the rides. I'm telling you what. If you don't have a good pair of legs on you, you may want to rethink Disney. We had intended to go to Epcot the second day but instead we went back to my in laws. Neither me nor my husband could walk the next day from all the standing we had to do. The walking wasn't so bad but the standing really took its tool on us. I guess we should have made this trip when we were younger!!

Don't we make for a sour bunch of tourists! I'm not quite sure what you call that pose Allison was doing. I'm thinking maybe she was saying "Yeh, I'm cool but I don't know about these other two beside me."

We saw two fabulous parades during our time there. The first one was in the daytime. They had every Disney Character imaginable on the floats. Can you guess who these two fellows are?

This float carried most of the dancers for Disney. The ones that weren't on the float did a wonderful job dancing thru the streets. Such great entertainers.

Here we have the Princesses Palace at night. It turned pink then purple then blue. What a thrilling picture.

And saving the best for last. Mickey Mouse. Minny was on the other side. This was the second parade we saw at night. Everything was in lights and it was the most beautiful parade I have ever seen.

We had a really nice time on vacation. The time got away from us so fast though. We headed home on Saturday morning the 10th at 7:30 am and we didn't get home until Sunday Morning around 1:30 am. We ran into a couple of traffic jams on the way home and we were stuck in one spot after a 4 car crash. We definitely had the Lords protection around us as we drove.

I hope you enjoyed the pictures from our vacation as much as we enjoyed the vacation. Next we are off to Myrtle Beach for two weeks in July. I'm totally looking forward to that trip!!

Enjoy the rest of the week friends.
AMY

I Play To Win and I Have Been Blessed

2010-04-13T20:52:00.003-04:00

I have been so blessed lately. I have won several giveaways recently and I wanted to share with you my two latest wins. I will start off saying I am sorry to my fellow bloggers for my poor picture taking skills. My goodies are so much nicer than the pictures show.

Now on to win #1.... I won this fabulous handmade doll by Trena at http://timewornprimitives.blogspot.com. She stitched the bag that is around her shoulder as well. Sorry Trena that my picture doesn't show it clearly. Trena even signed her leg. How cool is that? I'm not keeping her on this chair but for now it is where she is resting.

Here is a picture of the rest of the things that were in the box that I wasn't expecting. Aren't these signs just so perfect. Trena also included some handmade carrots and some candles. I just so appreciate Trena for her talents.

My next win was from Donna at http://onesimplecountrygirl.blogspot.com. Somehow these pictures got out of order. These two bunnies go in an arrangement I am putting out on my front porch for spring but they haven't made it there yet. I know they will look so sweet.

This picture shows my whole win and yes that Afghan was part of my win!!! Look at the beautiful colors she choose. The picture kind of miss represents the color of my couch. The Afghan matches it perfectly. I just love it!

See how nice it looks draped over the couch. You will have to refer to the picture above to see the true colors of the Afghan because they are distorted in this picture. Our family room gets cold and this will be the perfect cover for those chilly times.

I want to thank Trena and Donna for being so kind and generous. These are two very talented ladies and I feel so blessed to have their creations in my home. When you can spare some time, you will definitely want to stop over and check out their blogs. I'm I know you will enjoy their posts as much as I do.

I'm hoping to post some vacation pictures next and then I want to share with you my Summer Swap gifts I received from a very special lady named Andy. Please be patient with me. I haven't recovered from vacation mode yet and I'm a little slow.

Blessings to all.
AMY

We Made It Home!

2010-04-12T13:08:00.000-04:00

Good Monday afternoon to all my friends, new and old. We finally made it back from vacation early Sunday morning. What a glorious time we had in Florida. I'm kind of short on time this afternoon but I wanted to let everyone know we got home safely and I also wanted to let you know about a few posts I have in store for you.

I won two more fabulous giveaways that I want to show everyone and I will have some vacation pictures to share. Please try to hang in there for these posts. Time is just not on my side today. I was still dressing from my suitcase this morning and trust me it has been a typical Monday x3 here at work today. Hopefully tonight I will get my pictures loaded and ready for everyone to see.

Wishing you all a beautiful day. I'll be back soon.

Hugs,
AMY

Florida Here We Come

2010-04-01T04:11:00.000-04:00

I just wanted all my friends to know that I will be gone for the next 11 days. Hubby and I have been blessed with time off work so we are heading to Florida to visit his parents for Easter. Please remember us in your prayers that we be blessed with safe traveling mercies and that the weather is just perfect. We have had our share of snow and we are in need of some nice warm and relaxing sunshine.

We will be staying at Disney for a couple of days while in Florida and hopefully I will have some time to scope out some prim shops providing there are any. I am so excited I can hardly wait to get there.

I'm sure I will have wonderful things to post about when I return so please remember to check back later in the month. In closing, I want to say "Thank You" to Trena for the wonderful doll and extra goodies I won from her giveaway last week. I will post more on that and show you all my wonderful things I received when I get back.

Happy Easter to All and may you have a wonderful day with your friends and family.

Remember....... Christ is Alive!

Oh Happy Day!!

2010-03-24T21:25:00.000-04:00

I am delighted to show you some things I won from a recent giveaway. I participated in Teresa's giveaway over at Willow Bend Prims and looky looky what I won! It was almost like TJ knew me personally and picked the exact things I would like.

This plate has one of my most favorite scriptures verses on it from Joshua 2:15. In case you can't read it, it says "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." My family is trying our best to do just that. The star holder came with the plate.

This crock is my next favorite thing. I almost bought myself one the last time I was at one of my prim stores but I put it back. Can you say "amazing." The candle will go on a shelf on my cupboard in my living room. The pantry cake will make its home along the other two I have on my stove board in the kitchen. I think I have the perfect candle for the berry wreath too.

The black peg rack will go perfectly in my kitchen to ensure that I will be able to locate my keys more easily in the morning before I have to head out to work. I'm always loosing them but now I won't have any more excuse for not being able to find them. The prim little bag will be holding my cell phone. Maybe I will be able to answer my phone calls in a more timely manner since I should be able to find it easily. The spool will be placed along with two other ones I have collected over time. I adore the crow pick. I have the perfect planter to place it in too.

I hope you like my goodies as much as I do. I want to thank TJ again for being so generous and sweet in her giveaway.

Blessings friends,
~AMY~

A Few Of My Favorite Pieces

2010-03-17T08:32:00.000-04:00

Good morning everyone. As I was looking around my home, I realized I have several pieces with one common denominator. They are all mustard colored. Besides black, mustard is my favorite color for furniture. Now you will have to excuse the poor quality of the pictures. I took them with my phone. These pictures kind of make my pieces look sick and green but I think we all know what color mustard is so just squint a little when looking at them.

Okay, I guess I will have to do this backwards because I can't move this one stubborn picture to where I want it to go. So in reverse....

This piece which you can see is not mustard in color has been in storage since December and it is just waiting for me to bring it to my home when the shop opens back up next month. All of the goodies on the shelf are not mine although I wish I had a few of them. I'm hoping the shelf is wide enough to set a small television on. If so, this piece will be going in my living room.

These next 4 pieces are from Country Wicks in Lisbon, Ohio. All of the furniture in this store is made by a local crafter. You should see the finish he puts on his pieces. Very talented I must say. He has even refurbished a few pieces for the shop and you would think they were newly built pieces until you realize you have seen the outdated piece somewhere before.

This birdhouse was bought for me for my birthday one year by my daughter. She is so good to me. I'm sure daddy had to pay for it though. He is good to me too!

This is my crock/ jug rack. As you can see I only have two pieces on it but when I find more, the glass pieces on the bottom will go and be replaced.

This cupboard was one of the first pieces I bought. I just love it.

Next is my most favorite piece I have purchased so far. It fits perfectly in my kitchen. One day I am going to redo the kitchen and get rid of all the red, green and the apples. It will be mustard, black and burgundy and I will have hardwood floors and granite counter tops. I plan to decorate with roosters. I so wish it was in our budget to do it now but I suppose it won't kill me to wait a little longer.

These next two pieces came from the Cricket Box in Columbiana, Ohio. The owners of this shop build all their furniture that they sell. They will build to your specifications and will paint the pieces any color you want. I could go crazy in that store. Such quality and craftsmanship. The prices are wonderful as well. I have my eye on several other pieces in their shop but they too will have to wait just like my kitchen redo.

Don't you love how this table resembles a door. I think it is very cool. I removed some of my accessories so you could see the panels a little better.

Thanks for stopping by today and looking at some of my favorites. It is supposed to get up into the 60's today and I am so hoping it does. Spring can't get her soon enough to suite me!!!

Hugs to everyone,
~AMY~

Another Great Giveaway

2010-03-15T14:11:00.000-04:00

Sorry Ladies but this is the only way I know how to link a giveaway from another blog to my blog. I have to make a post about it. Trena at Time Worn Primitives http://timewornprimitives.blogspot.com/ is hosting a wonderful anniversary giveaway and she is offering up a handmade Prairie Doll. This doll is absolutely adorable. I assure you this is one giveaway you don't want to miss. Head on over there now and sign up. This is what you will win if she chooses your name.

Enjoy your day everyone! Think Spring!

Hugs,
~AMY~

My First Ebay Purchase

2010-03-10T12:57:00.000-05:00

I have adored wool hooked rugs for some time now. I was looking on Ebay the other day and low and behold I found one I really liked and it was very affordable. Here it is...

So what do you think of it? I really don't know where I'm going to put it yet but I just fell in love with it so I had to have it. I would like to get a couple more rugs just because. I know there are a few bloggers out there that have this same rug. Sheep seem to speak to me so that is why I picked this one. Sandy at For The Love Of Prims has a crow hooked rug that I love just as much. Now if I could only get my hands on one of those I would be set. Okay Okay, she is checking into it for me. Wish me luck.

I hope everyone is having Spring Like Weather like we are having here in Ohio. I am so looking forward to full days of sunshine and 80 degree temps. Until next time!

Prim Blessings,
AMY

Check Out This Giveaway

2010-03-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

Make sure you take the time to stop over and visit Anne from Seasons of The Past to enter her deliciously prim giveaway. Anne will be choosing a winner on March 12th in Honor of her mothers 80th Birthday. Here is just one example of what you will be winning. note...You will not win all these pillows, just one. There are several other great things that go with this giveaway but you have to go to her blog to find out what else she is offering.

This picture was copied from her last post. Anne I hope you don't mind I copied it to my blog.

Good luck ladies and gents!

AMY

Fire! Fire! Fire!

2010-03-04T08:41:00.000-05:00

We were awakened around midnight to the sound of my husbands fire pager going off. They had a structure fire in full swing. He raced to the fire station to find out a house 2 doors away from the fire station was ablaze. I don't know if anyone was hurt yet since I have only had minimal communication with him since he left but I do know there was a hair salon on the bottom floor and at least 3 apartments above it. Here are a few pictures that hubby sent to me this morning on my cell phone. I thank God that he and his fellow firemen did not get hurt and I am praying that no one else was injured as well. These pictures show the house still standing but when I drove close to it this morning on my way to work at 8:00 there was nothing left of it except for a pile of burnt wood. The firemen were still on the scene controlling the hot spots. I did manage to get a wave from my hubby so I know he is alright.

Sorry but I couldn't get these pictures in order. Maybe I can post one later that shows the house completely down. It is such a shame that this had to happen. Hopefully they will find what caused this fire and the displaced families can get their lives back in order.

Have a blessed day everyone.

~AMY~

Don't Miss Your Chance

2010-02-18T09:22:00.001-05:00

Make sure you stop over at Willow Bend Prims to enter to win this mystery giveaway!

~The Best Trash Ever~

2010-02-16T21:26:00.000-05:00

I'm telling you the trash at my house just keeps getting better and better. Maybe I should clarify that statement a little better so no one thinks I've lost my marbles. The last swap that Char at The Pickled Pepper Patch hosted was a GW Trashy Swap. You were to shop at your local GW or Thrift Shops and find treasures that could be re-purposed into primitive items for your partner. I was blessed with a very talented and precious gal this time. My partner was Alice from Old Primitive Home. She really came up with some wonderful transformations. Have you waited long enough to see what I got? Well here goes......

This pincushion is just so cool. I forgot to ask Alice what she used for the base but I'm thinking it might have been a vase. You can't quite see the pattern on the material but it is roosters. I will be putting this in my kitchen on a shelf when I get it refinished. Roosters will be what I am decorating it in.

Now how clever was this idea? I just love these little jars. I have the most perfect shelf in my bathroom that will just look perfect with these sitting on it. The tart in the bag is nut bread scented. How delicious will that smell when I melt it!!

Alice must be a mind reader. I have so been wanting a penny mat of my own. I was excited when Char did a tutorial on making one but I never got around to it. Now having one of my own, I can wait a little longer until I decide to finally make one for myself. Such fine stitches she has in this mat. I just love everything about it. It will definitely be going in my living room. Not sure what to set on it but I'm thinking maybe a candle in the center.

Finally the most ingenious idea of all. I just love this stitchery/calendar. Such a wonderfully prim idea for a calendar. She stitched this herself and let me tell you it is next to perfect. Go ahead and enlarge the picture and see what I'm talking about. Now from what I gather, I almost had to fight her small son to keep this treasure. He wanted it for himself. I am so happy I beat him out and Alice sent it to me.

I hope anyone that has ever thought about joining in one of Chars swaps does so. I have received some pretty awesome things and I've met some wonderful friends along the way. I feel so blessed every time I look at the things I have received. Join in the fun ladies. I have a feeling Char will be coming up with another swap any day now!

Hugs and blessings to all,
AMY

Snow, Snow, Snow and Some Makeovers

2010-02-07T21:35:00.000-05:00

Boy did it get ugly in Lisbon, Ohio this weekend. When I left work on Friday around 5:00, the snow had just started falling. By morning this is what we had in our yard. This first picture is coming up our drive.

This is the front yard.

Another view coming up to the porch.

Here is what the deck looks like.

This is looking out the patio door to the deck.

And the deck again. I'm not so sure we will ever get all the snow off the deck anytime soon.

You can see our Schnoodle trying to decide where she might head to go to the bathroom without getting lost in the snow.

Do you think we will ever get the camper dug out?

I am definitely not a snow lover so I am not happy with all this fluffy white stuff. It took my husband almost 8 hours to clear out our drive and dig out the front walk. I'm so glad he didn't ask me for help! My daughter measured the snow in the front yard and we had 23 inches. WOW!!!

Since I was all warm and cozy inside, I found a few GW goodies that needed a good make over. I have been looking for a wooden breadbox forever and finally I found one. It isn't exactly like I wanted but it will do for now. It has a little girl and some ducks on the front so I am looking for any ideas anyone has to put on the front of my box to try and cover them up.

BEFORE...AFTER......

As I have said in the past, I love anything with drawers or cubbies. I'm not quite sure what I want to do with this little cubbie so for now it is just hanging in my kitchen. Any ideas what to add to it or should I just leave it empty?

BEFORE......
AFTER.....

Well ladies and gents that's all I have for now. I hope to have more to post about this week but sometimes life gets in the way of my blogging. I hate when that happens. I hear we are to get another 4-6 inches of snow on Tuesday night into Wednesday. Keep your fingers crossed that we don't. My daughters school has already canceled for tomorrow due to the inability of in town kids that walk being able to use the sidewalks. I'm sure some of the secondary roads are still a little messy too.

I hope everyone is staying warm and safe.

Blessings to all,
AMY

Finally Inspired

2010-01-10T19:30:00.000-05:00

This post was inspired by Char at The Pickled Pepper Patch. She is hosting a swap that must contain repurposed things from the Goodwill or Thrift Store. I of course will be participating in this swap but I can't show you yet what I will be trading with my yet to be named partner. What I can share with you is a couple of remakes that I did for myself.

This first one is my favorite. I just painted and primmed up this box and added a candle label that I purchased a while back from The Yankee Peddler. I painted it black first and then did a lite brushing of gold. Sanded it in a few spots and stained it all over with Dark Walnut Minwax Stain. For now it is sitting on the cupboard in my living room.

Next is this little 6 drawer box. I just adore anything with drawers. Again I base painted it in black and then painted over it with a rust color. Sanded it in a few spots to make it look worn and then I stained it.

Next we have a 2 tiered tray. I'm not so sure I like the finish on this one. Again a black base with a maroon color on the top and then finished off with stain. I may have to rethink this one. I don't have any particular place in mind that I want to put this so I guess I have plenty of time to decide if I want to keep the color it is or change it up.

I hope you enjoyed the before and after pics of my makeovers. I so love doing this. It is really fun to take something plain and add color to it and see what you end up with.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and I also hope the snow hasn't been too bad for anyone. We have about 9 inches total at our house but the township and street departments have kept most of the roadways pretty clean so far this winter.

Stay warm my friends and enjoy the week ahead.

Fuzzy Hugs,
~AMY~

An End To Another Year

2009-12-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

I know this isn't the Eve of our New Year but since I had a few minutes, I thought I would take the time to do a final post for 2009. What a year it has been. So much to look back and reflect on. Some good and some bad. Some not worth mentioning.

On the down side of 2009, I over spent my budget this year, gained weight that I hadn't planned on, never got my garage cleaned out and my hubby had his hours dropped at work for several months so we no longer have much in our savings. On a positive note, hubby is back to work full time, I added a few prim pieces to my home that have really brought me joy in my decorating, I found a new hobby of stenciling signs that just gives me so much pleasure and most importantly my mother's health has kind of leveled off for the good.

As I am writing, so many more good things about 2009 are coming to my mind that so out way the bad. I am able to freely serve God and worship as I want, I am healthy, I have a wonderful husband and two super fantastic children. All my brothers and sisters live close to me, my in laws are the greatest, my children have never had to go to bed hungry nor go without medical care. Man am I blessed!!! 2009 has been a Great Year!

A final wish to all my blogging friends whether you are new or old.... May 2010 be the most prosperous and joyous year you have ever had. I wish that all your dreams come true and happiness is abundant.

Blessing my friends,

~AMY~

All Gone!!

2009-12-18T08:21:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do a post showing all the signs I had made but before I got pictures of them, I sold them all. I'm not complaining, I just don't have any pictures. I believe I had over 30 signs too. My hubby decided to stop by one of our local stores and ask the owner if he would be interested in selling my signs for me. Of course he would be making a profit from them as well. Anyway, the owner said he would take them all and he paid my husband right then and there. He didn't barter my prices, he just paid what I was asking.

Oh how my heart sang. I never thought I would sell all my signs. I believe I only kept one or two signs for myself, gave two to my mother and one to our pastor. I even sold all my Christmas signs that I had intended to keep for me. Guess I can always make more.

Last night my sister told me about a new "General Store" that is coming to our town. They are looking for crafters to make things to add a home made touch to their store. Well guess what I am going to do next. Yep! I'm going to see if they want some of my signs. I think I will wait until after the new year to start making them again. I am getting an order together for some new stencils. If you have never been to http://www.folkartfromtheharbor.com/, you definitely must stop by and see what BeCca has on her site. I highly recommend her stencils to anyone that wants to start sign making. She has tons to choose from, the prices are great and she ships really fast. You won't be sorry you stopped by. I promise.

Well I suppose that's all I have for now. Call me bad but I haven't taken any Christmas pictures of our home as of yet. I doubt that I will have much time before Christmas to do so either. I've been busy baking and present wrapping and all that other good stuff that goes along with the Holiday. I hope everyone is on their way to being done with all their shopping and preparations and are starting to relax and enjoy themselves. If not, get on the stick!!

Enjoy your weekend my friend!
Hugs,
AMY

My Busy Weekend

2009-12-07T08:28:00.000-05:00

Good Monday Morning friends. I hope you all had a nice enjoyable and relaxing weekend. Well I finally got most of my Christmas decorating done. There was a point that I didn't even think I was going to decorate. I'm glad the mood finally hit me. I must admit that the theme of this years decorating was "less is more". I bet I only used 1/3 of my decorations. I think as I get older I like the simpler look. Yes I'm sure that is it. I wouldn't want anyone to think I was just being lazy. Okay, maybe I was. Still things look nice.

Now on to the point of my post. Recently I found myself a new hobby. I love stenciling. These are a couple of Christmas signs I have made for myself. I have probably done about 20 different ones so far. I have regular everyday signs, game boards and blocks just to name a few. I might try my hand at selling them after Christmas. What do you think? I have done multiple sets of these little signs. My mother in law bought some to incorporate into her wreaths she was making.

I really like this sign. I love the red and black together. I think the hardest part of sign making is choosing the right colors. I love dark colors better than light but you can't put dark on dark or it just doesn't show up. I have several signs that I had to redo because of my color choice selections.

Next I want to share a few things with you that I made on Saturday. Now remember I am not the most talented crafter so my creations are pretty simple in nature. Still I think they turned out pretty nice. Remember my post a while back about the bed springs a friend of mine gave to me. Well here are a couple of ideas I came up with.

This first one is a tree nodder. I found this tree amongst my decorations and the little trunk fit perfectly into the spring opening. Just a few bulbs and a couple of red candy canes and tada! A mini Tree Nodder is born. I made 3 of these trees.

This next one is adorned with a little ornie that was in another box. I tried to hide the spring just a bit for a different look.

I have several more nodders to make but I have to wait until I receive my order from my friend Lex at NorthWind Star Primitives. She has been working on crafting several things for me to adorn my springs with. Hopefully I will have them this week.

Well that's all I got for today. Hopefully I will get some pictures of my home posted later this week. Take care everyone and remember to smile. It makes people think you are up to something.

Warm Hugs,
AMY

Amazing!!

2009-11-30T10:32:00.000-05:00

I just had to share this story from our Pastor's Daughter Avery. Avery is a very special little 12 year old. She is very secure in her walk with the Lord more so than a lot of older Christians I know. Avery prays in faith believing that God will answer her prayers if it is his will to do so.

Here is where the "Amazing" part of this post begins..... Avery has been praying faithfully to the Lord for a new laptop computer. She knows it is something that her parents can't afford to purchase for her but she knows that God is well able to provide it should he decides she is to have it. She was very specific in what she was praying for because she knows the Lord wants us to pray to him that way. We aren't to beat around the bush. We are to go to him with exactly what we are needing or wanting.

Avery, her mom and her grandmother (who by the way is dead set against religion) decided to brave Black Friday and head out at 5:30 in the morning. One place they stopped was Best Buy. Avery immediately went to the computer section and was looking over everything they had so she would be sure to have the specifics of what she wanted next time she talked to God about her desire for a computer. After a few minutes, she turned to see her mother in tears. There was an older gentlemen talking to her mom and grandmother. Avery went over to see what was going on. The man told them that the Lord had just laid it upon his heart to buy Avery a laptop that very moment. He was very specific as to which computer he was to purchase as well. Carrie the mom just could not believe what she was hearing. Of course the grandmother thought there was some kind of agenda that this man had on his mind. Carrie knew better. She knew that this man was there not only for Avery but for her mother to be a witness to just how God works in our lives. Oh how I would have loved to have been there to see this all take place.

Avery left Best Buy that morning with a brand new Mac Laptop, a case for it, two extra upgrades and a three year extended warranty on the computer. How amazing is this!! It just gave me goosebumps when I heard Avery give this testimony. How could anyone ever doubt this to be anything other than the work of God! It can't be explained any other way.

I hope you enjoyed reading this story as much as I love repeating it. Enjoy your week and remember to pray! You just never know what God may have waiting for you!

Blessings,
AMY

Give Thanks

2009-11-25T11:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends that read and follow my blog. I personally have so much to be thankful for although sometimes I don't always realize it. I am blessed in more ways than I could ever count. I thank God for my family, my home, my life and my job.

I want to share with you this chorus by Henry Smith. We sing it at church. Read each word and let it sink into your heart. Remember to Give Thanks to Jesus Christ!

Give thanks with a grateful heart.
Give thanks unto the Holy One.
Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.

And now let the weak say "I am strong."
Let the poor say "I am rich."
Because of what the Lord has done for us....
GIVE THANKS

Blessings to everyone,

AMY

To my daddy. I'll miss you at our table this year.

UPDATE!! One Pair Of Hands

2009-11-24T12:41:00.000-05:00

******Sorry this wasn't working for you that wanted to view it. I guess I'm not as computer smart as I thought. If you have the time, just go on to http://www.youtube/ and type in One Pair Of Hands. Click on the first video that looks like a moon shining off the water. It will take you to the video I am trying to show you.
Sorry that this has been so much trouble.

This is simply beautiful. If you have a few minutes to spare and really want to have your spirit lifted you should definitely view this.

http://www.youtube.com/v/xz92NwWehPK&color1

Blessings,
Amy

Can You Stand More Goodies??

2009-11-16T15:14:00.000-05:00

Guess what I got in the mail on Saturday!! Lookie Lookie...What do we have here. I participated in another great Swap hosted by Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch. The theme of this swap was Christmas. I got lucky and had Char for my swap partner again. Look at all these goodies she made for me. Sorry but I am not the worlds best photographer so please keep in mind that these prim goodies look way better in person than the pictures show. Char is so talented. If she does another swap in the future be sure and join it. You will have no regrets. There are some very talented ladies that participate.

This is an over all picture of everything I received. We had rules as to what we were to include in our swap.

Here's what the swap consisted of.....

1st 3 homemade ornies. Didn't she do a wonderful job on these. I have the perfect peg rack to hang them from.

2nd a textile item. She sent me this wonderful piece that she stitched Christmas 1802 in the corner and she stained it all old for me.

1st and 2nd are grouped together.

3rd a wooden item. This sign is just fabulous. It looks like it was made a long time ago. Sorry but you have to tilt your head sideways for this one. I thought I flipped it but apparently I didn't.

4th a lighted item. She hand dipped these lights and scented them as well. The smell was so delicious when I took them out of the box, it made me drool. They will adorn my grapevine tree this year. Char also added some homemade tarts. They smelled good enough to eat. My house will definitely smell good for the holidays.

5th was an item of the designers choice. She made this candle holder with candles. I just love it.

Well there you have it. A Perfect Christmas Swap. Thank you again and again Char for being such a good swap partner. I look forward to participating in the next one.

Warm hugs to everyone.
AMY

I'm A Winner!!

2009-11-15T19:17:00.000-05:00

Look what I won! Who doesn't love cookbooks....especially ones from Goose Berry Patch!!

Now you might be wondering how I won this gem. Well it came to me by way of Carey at American Girl Primitives-N Such. I also won the fantastic plaid dish towel that you can see under my cookbook. Thanks so much Carey for picking me as your lucky winner. I have read the cookbook from cover to cover and marked several recipes that I thought I might try. Thanks for the little note at the end of the book as well. I will always treasure this.

I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Warm Hugs and Blessings to all,
AMY

ps..Check back tomorrow for some pictures of the fabulous Swap Gifts I received from Char at The Pickeled Pepper Patch. We were partners for her Christmas Swap. I promise you won't want to miss seeing what I got.

Christmas With a Capital "C"

2009-11-13T12:31:00.000-05:00

I received this in an email from a friend this morning. I really think it is worth passing on. There is a very good message behind it. Take a minute to view it. You won't be disappointed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAckfn8yiAQ

Hugs,
AMY

Any Suggestions

2009-11-03T10:51:00.000-05:00

I'm really thinking my living room needs a rug. I was thinking a rectangular braided jute rug would probably be just perfect. It would need to be at least an 8 x 11 size or bigger. I have searched the Internet and can't seem to find what I am looking for. I have seen many home pictures with these rugs so I know they are out there. I just don't know where. Here is a picture of one similar to what I am talking about. It is from JC Pennys. It isn't exactly the color I want but it would do if I can't find anything else.

I'm looking for something with some blues, greens, blacks and golds in it. This rug at Pennys is around $250.00. Does anyone know if this is a good price should I decide to get it?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Enjoy your week friend.

Prim Hugs,

AMY

How Cool Is This??

2009-10-22T10:46:00.000-04:00

Now my hubby may not be too crafty with wood but he sure knows metal. He fabricated this stove in two days. Isn't this the cutest little stove you have ever seen? Bob will be leaving at the end of this month on his first hunting trip of the year with his uncle and a buddy and they will be roughing it in a tent this time around. To make sure they are warm enough Bob thought he would make them a stove for their tent. It is only about 24 inches high by 22 inches long by 12 inches wide. Boy does it throw off the heat. I think it is adorable. I honestly wouldn't mind having one to use as a decoration in a room in my house. My family thinks I've lost my marbles but I think its just too cute. There is a long black pipe that extends up from the top but I didn't get a picture of it all put together.

I'm sure my hubby would be interested in what some of you gals think of his stove. I'll pass your comments on to him.

Well I gotta run. Blessings to all my friends, old and new.

Hugs,

AMY

A Few New Prim Things

2009-10-21T09:56:00.000-04:00

Recently I purchased a new piece for my kitchen. It seems like most prim homes have one of these so I thought I might as well have one too. Here is my lovely new black stove board. I purchased it from Ashley at Ashleys Primitives.

Wow is my stove dirty. I guess I better clean before taking anymore pictures in the kitchen.

Here is the link to Ashley's website. http://www.ashleysprimitives.comPlease stop over and visit her shop. You will not be disappointed with what you see. She has several other pieces I would like to purchase but they will have to wait until another time. Ashley was great to do business with and she ships quickly. The shipping on this item was very reasonable for its size. I hope you stop over and check it out.

Next I would like to show you a rack I purchased a while back from my favorite hometown shop "Country Wicks". (Chris the owner is working on her website daily and I'll let you know when it is up and running) I think this rack is really supposed to be used as a towel rack but I just added a few things that I had around the house and I think I like the display I created. The cupboard under the rack was purchased from Chris as well for my birthday last year. Sorry the picture looks so blurry.

My last picture is something my daughter Allison painted for me. She knows how much I love crows and since she loves to paint she thought I might find a place to put this. What do you think? I just love it. She used an oil paint for the crow and I think it really made it stand out off the canvas.

Well its off to do some cleaning. I hope everyone has a lovely week.

Blessings,

AMY

Brrrrrr!!!! Ahhhhh!! Much Better

2009-10-15T19:30:00.000-04:00

It sure got cold in our neck of the woods here in Northeastern Ohio. I came home from work today and asked my hubby to build me a nice roaring fire.

I don't think he did too bad. The living room is nice and warm but as for the rest of the house, it is cold. I think maybe I should have him build another fire downstairs in the family room as well???I am so not ready for winter to be here!!

Use your imagination for a minute. Can you feel the heat radiating from the fire?

Tonight I decided to be lazy and do nothing. Probably not one of my most ingenious ideas but definitely a good idea. I have so many things that need done but just don't feel like doing them. Do you ever feel that way? I have the desire but just not the gumption. I hope I shake this mood soon or nothing will get done. Any helpful hints out there to get my butt in gear??? ANYONE????

Well I better run. I hear the dinner dishes calling my name! Sometimes I think my name is the only one in the house that they know!

Blessings,
AMY

Fall Baking

2009-09-20T21:10:00.000-04:00

Our hometown had their annual Johnny Appleseed Festival over the weekend and the apple theme put me in the mood for baking with apples. Sorry but somehow these pictures got a bit out of order but I think you be able to see all the deliciousness none the less.
These first two pictures are Apple Dumplings made with Mountain Dew. Yes I said Mountain Dew. I got the recipe from Ree at http://thepioneerwoman.com/. If you have never been to her blog and you love cooking, make sure you stop. She is so talented that she even has a cookbook coming out soon. I know I will be one of the firsts in line to order this one. I so love cookbooks and she makes cooking sound so fun and easy.

These were so easy to make and served with ice cream they were delicious.

Next I made a Moist Carmel Apple Cake from an old reliable recipe from http://www.allrecipies.com/. I make this at least once a year and everyone just loves it. It is so moist and the caramel sauce makes everything so gooey and yummy. Definitely try this sometime if you have a fall picnic or gathering to attend. Your friends and family will thank you for it.

Well that's all I have time for today. I'm a bit impressed with myself. I've been complaining that I haven't had time to post much lately and here I am posting two days in a row. I wonder if it is possible to go three in a row????

Have a blessed day ladies.

Hugs,

AMY

A Few Fall Touches

2009-09-20T21:08:00.000-04:00

Good Day Prim Friends. Where does the time go? I had planned on posting this a week ago but time just got away from me. I was finally able to dig out a few of my fall decorations and I wanted to share a couple of pictures with you all. Hopefully this week I will be able to post a few more and possibly some outdoor pictures as well. I hope you like what I've done so far.

This first grouping shows a precious little pumpkin that my niece (who by the way is 3 months older than me) bought for me for my Halloween birthday a couple of years back. I just think he looks so adorable sitting there with his legs crossed. Kind of looks like he is up to something. He is holding a little crow under his arm. You can't really see it too good in this picture though.

This next picture shows a little fall picture frame I put together and a framed felt picture of a pumpkin that I picked up at one of my favorite Prim Shops here in town where I live. Hopefully one day soon I can post a website for this shop. I know Chris has been busy trying to get one set up for some time now.

(I just noticed the lonely black shoe in the picture. I suppose if you squint real hard, you could kind of think it adds a little prim touch to the fall theme.)

This next shot is a little grouping I put together with some coffee stained rag balls that I made. I love the color of the leaves surrounding them. This sits on a table in front of my love seat.

This last display is on my coffee table. I just love the beautiful colors in the flowers in this basket. I could leave fall colors out all year round I love them so much.

Well this is all I have for now. With my daughter having Volleyball games 3 nights a week, decorating for fall has just been pushed to the back burner. My intentions are good but my time is limited.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week.

Blessings,
AMY

It's Springtime At My House

2009-09-02T13:02:00.000-04:00

I think maybe I might have fooled you on this one a little. I bet some of you thought I had lost my mind. Well let me explain the content of this post just a little bit better.

For the past several months, a fellow employee and I try and walk everyday during our lunch break. While walking, we have so many different conversations about so many different topics. Well one day on one of our walks Chuck and I were talking about doing some fall cleaning around the outside of our homes. Somehow old bed springs came up. Chuck mentioned to me that he had an old mattress out back behind his garage and had been meaning to get rid of it forever and just never did. I stopped dead in my tracks unable to speak. By my reaction I'm sure he knew the wheels were spinning in my head. He told me I probably wouldn't want it because the coils would be all rusted. "Hold on there heart!!!!" I said to myself. "This could be the big one." My pulse was racing and my head was spinning and it was all I could do to get the words out "I WILL TAKE IT!" I think I might have even scared Chuck at one point. Once I composed myself, I told him I would gladly take it off his hands. I'm thinking to myself, "Does he really even know what kind of treasure he has been keeping hidden behind his shed for so long?" Well low and behold the next day, he brought the springs into work for me. He even took them all apart for me so I wouldn't get cut trying to pry them apart from the frame. What a nice guy he is.

A while back I purchased this spring/star creation from one of my favorite prim shops and I always thought it was just so cleaver that they used a bed spring for the base. At the time I thought if I could only get my hands on some springs surely I could make something similar with them. Like a dream come true, I now can. I have so many ideas in mind as to what to do with them. As most of you know, I don't sew so I will have to purchase most of the things I plan to use with them. Still I will try and come up with a few original creations of my own.

If anyone has any decorated springs they have displayed, I would love to see them. Just shoot me an email with your picture. I can always use a little extra inspiration.

Just as soon as a get a couple of these little buggers finished, I will be sure and post them for everyone to see.

I hope everyone is having a great week and are enjoying the weather as much as I am. It has been very cool at night and in the morning but very sunny and beautiful throughout the day. Don't you just love this time of year?

Blessings Everyone,
AMY

Fall Harvest Swap Goodies!!

2009-08-31T06:51:00.001-04:00

Good morning everyone. What beautiful fall like weather we are having here in Ohio. Yesterday we had to wear coats when outside. I think the warmest it got was about 68 degrees. I really love fall but I wasn't prepared for it to be so cold just yet.

Well on now to the purpose of my post. Like a lot of ladies in blogland, I participated in another Swap hosted by Char over at The Pickled Pepper Patch. The theme for this swap was Fall Harvest. Char likes us to try and create something homemade for our partner to make the swap special but you can also purchase things as well if you want to add to your package. My partner for this swap was Ann Frank from http://www.aholeinthebasketprimitives.blogspot.com/. Let me tell you, Ann is a very talented crafter. You should definitely stop by her blog and take a look. She is a basket weaver as well and she does awesome work.

This first picture is some darling little pumpkin candles. For right now they are just in a dish on top of a bucket I had on my coffee table. Eventually I am going to incorporate them into a fall themed decoration I am making for my kitchen table. Aren't they just precious!

Now I just love this little doll. She has little pumpkins strung across the front of her with a little bit of Sweet Annie tucked behind. This made my box smell so good when I opened it.

Next is this awesome cross stitched crow and pumpkin. Don't you just love crows! The frame is just perfect for this piece. It is distressed in all the right places.

Ann also included a pumpkin scented candle in a tin but for some reason I didn't take a picture of it. She wanted to paint the tin but her husband didn't think it was a good idea to mix paint with a burning candle. Probably a good idea. Ann if you are reading this, again I thank you for being so kind in your giving. I will think of you every time I look at these special pieces.

On a final note, I would to ask that you say a prayer for my mom. Friday she was admitted to the hospital with Pneumonia. Mom is 82 and has so many other health issues that this has just taken a toll on her. We serve a mighty God and I know he is well able to take care of her so I am not too worried.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week and let me know how the weather is in your neck of the woods.

Blessings,
AMY

~Absolutely Perfect~

2009-08-10T13:59:00.000-04:00

What a fantastic vacation we just got back from. Everything was just perfect. The food, the weather, the entertainment, the socializing. We were truly blessed! We left home Sunday the 26th at 11:00pm. At 4:00 Monday morning we pulled over for a nap. By 7:00 we were back on the road. We arrived at Myrtle Beach around 1:00 to set up camp. The weather was absolutely beautiful. We headed out to the beach first thing to check out the water. It was heavenly. The water temperature was just perfect. We sat around the camper most of the night because my dear husband drove about 800 miles getting us there so we thought he deserved a nice quite relaxing evening.

We pretty much just lounged around and went to the beach the first week. One evening it rained pretty hard so we went to the mall and did some school shopping for Allison. I knew she would be starting school soon after we got back and I wouldn't have much time to take her anywhere before then so it worked out perfectly. We went to several seafood restaurants that week as well. We had so much planned but it seemed like we were always running out of time.

Week two went just as fast but we did have a couple of guests with us then. My mother in law and father in law came down to be with us. We had a grand time. We golfed, shopped, ate, swam, strolled the boardwalks, walked the beach and ate some more!!

The weather could not have been more cooperative these two weeks. The average daily temperature was about 93 degrees. There was always a breeze blowing off the beach so it felt pretty good. Don't get me wrong, we definitely felt the sweat rolling but it wasn't unbearable.

Some nights we stayed at the campground and grilled and other nights we went out for seafood. There is nothing like a huge plate of crab legs to make your mouth water. I think Allison ate so many of them that she never wants another one. Well that is until next year anyway.

The campground has over 800 campsites and 300 condo spaces available to rent. It is such a huge place. It feels more like a city instead of a campground. It is very clean and orderly as well. 11:00 pm is quiet time and believe me things get quiet. Everyone at this campground has so much respect for their neighbors. It makes the experience all the more fun. They offer so much to do on site that there so there is no way you could ever get bored. They have supervised activities for younger kids so they feel special and teen activities as well. This campground really caters to its visitors.

I have a lot of other things to post about in the coming weeks but for now, here are some random shots from vacation. You may think there are too many pictures here but believe me I have tons more that I won't bore you with. You will notice there are no pictures of my son on this vacation. He stayed home. I didn't think I would do good without him there but all in all, it was alright. I hope you enjoy the pics.

Hugs everyone,
AMY

Here for now But gone soon

2009-07-23T12:41:00.000-04:00

Wow I cannot believe I haven't posted since the 4th of July. Well really I can believe it. We have been so busy planning and packing for our vacation to Myrtle Beach. We are set to leave out on Saturday the 25th and we won't be returning until Sunday August 9th. My husband, daughter and I are all that are going on this trip. My son and mother are staying home. Mom is already having separation anxiety and we haven't even left yet. Mom lives next door to us and she depends on me for so much since dads passing. Trust me I am leaving her in good hands though with my Aunt Carolyn. Pray for her if she happens to come to your mind over the next couple of weeks. I know Aaron will have a good time on his own. I almost think he is kind of excited thinking he is going to be in charge of everything for two whole weeks. He is even paying the bills for us while we are away. No he isn't using his money to do that! I've left him plenty of checks.

We will be staying at Ocean Lakes Campground. It is a beautiful place. Our campsite is only 4 sites back from the Ocean. I hear the weather is to be a bit wet for the next couple of days but I can live with that I guess. There will be plenty of days for sunshine.

"Recipient of Multiple Awards.

We have so many activities planned out. Just a couple of examples will be a boat trip out to see the Dolphins and an afternoon trip to Charleston to take a horse drawn carriage ride thru a historical downtown district to view some beautiful homes. I am so excited to be off work for two whole weeks and best of all to be doing it with my family.

I'll be sure to post lots of pictures when we get back. God Bless Everyone and know that I am thinking of you all and missing you as well. Talk to you later!!

Hugs,

~AMY~

Happy 4th of July To All

2009-07-02T13:38:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it is July already. Where has this year gone. 2009 is officially half over. Now how depressing is that! Anyways, onto celebrating the 4th. Hubby and I decided to go camping for the weekend. We both have an extra day off work so a three day weekend in the woods sounded like the perfect getaway.

We have been busy all week stocking up the camper. I believe I have enough food to last us for weeks in case we get stuck and can't come home. You know you can never have enough goodies when you are camping in the woods.

Here are a few extra pictures of our camper. I don't put out all my decorations when we are just going for a weekend trip so I will have to share more at the end of the month when we head out to Myrtle Beach for two weeks. More on that later.

Hopefully if the weather cooperates, we will be swimming, walking on trails and sitting around the campfire a lot this weekend. Our son Aaron is not going with us because he has other plans. I am trying to be okay with his decision. After all he is 21 and not a baby anymore. Our 13 year old daughter Allison asked her friend Carmen to come along for the weekend. I know the girls will have a great time together. We will be pulling out tonight to set up and tomorrow bright and early the fun will begin. Tomorrow we will just be filling the day with camp activities and Saturday we will be having a picnic with my in-laws. Sunday we will be packing up and heading home. Monday it's back to work for both of us. Drats to that!!

I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Independence Day. Blessings to all my friends new and old. I hope you have made some fun plans and maybe you would like to share them with me.

Take care,

AMY

Labels from Yankee Lane Primitives

2009-06-18T22:32:00.001-04:00

I think by now just about all of us bloggers have purchased some sort of labels to add to all our prim goodies and I thought I would share a few of the items I added labels to. I am so fascinated with the way they look on everything. You can get them in any size to label just about anything you can think of.

Let me first apologize for my picture taking. I have come to realize I really stink at photography. I think maybe I should take focus lessons from someone that knows what they are doing. If you click on the picture to enlarge it, you can see it better. The labels will be easier to read as well. Now onto my goodies.

This reproduction treenware bowl is holding the bowl fillers I got from my last swap with Cindy. I know I just showed this picture but it was worth showing again.

Next we have a little bottle that I filled with the miscellaneous buttons I had scattered all over the place. I need to gather up more so you can see them in the bottle.

I found this little box at the GW a while back and it was blue with "Recipes" painted on the front. I think it looks so much better in black.

I want to paint out this knife holder in black but for now I just slapped a label on it and I think it greatly improved its appearance.

I have my toaster and can opener hiding in this little box. It is the top cover off of an old treadle sewing machine. You can't really see the label but you get the idea.

These canisters look much better with the labels on them. They were so plain before I added them. (Can you see the little piggy beside them? I think he is so cute.)

I think this cutting board is my favorite. I wish it were bigger so I could keep it on my stove top.

Finally I added labels to a few jars I found hiding in one of my cupboards. Can't seem to remember where they came from but I just love the way they turned out.

Even though my pictures are out of focus, I think you get the gist of how things look. If you haven't tried labeling anything yet, be sure to check out Susie's blog at http://www.yankeelaneprimitives.com/ or her Lemon Poppy Seed site at http://www.lemonpoppyseeds.com/shoppes/psyankeelaneprimitives/ or her eBay link at http://shop.ebay.com/merchant/yankeelaneprimitives. I know you won't be disappointed that you did.

Have an enjoyable Friday everyone. Get out and do something fun with your family this weekend and if you have anything exciting planned, please be sure and share it with me.

Hugs to all,
~AMY~

Another Wonderful Swap

2009-06-15T21:43:00.000-04:00

As I have asked before, "Am I Lucky Or What!!" I decided to participate in another swap that Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch sponsored and boy am I glad I did. The goodies I received were all homemade and wonderful. My partner in the Patriotic Porch Swap was Cindy at Cynthialeedesigns@wordpress.com. You might want to stop over at Cindy's blog and take a look at her last post. She is a very talented crafter and I'm sure you will fall in love with her creations.

Here is a picture of all the wonderful goodies Cindy handmade especially for me.

I hung the Liberty Hanger on my front door. I just love the flower arrangement she put in to make it extra Patriotic. My mom tried to con me into giving this to her but I said "No Way Momma."

I just adore these little bowl fillers. I might even have to say they are my favorite of all. At first I couldn't choose a favorite but I think these just may be it.
Cindy also made me this flag sign. I have it hanging on my front porch with my primitive tools. Sorry but you can't see the tools in the picture. I think the flag makes the display just perfect.
This next picture does not do this gift justice but she stitched up this wall hanging and accented it with rusty stars in the corners. I need to put it in a regular frame so it doesn't get lost in the over sized one I have it in now.

I would like to thank Cindy for all the time and thought she put into making these things for me. Everything is so perfectly stitched and neat. I will treasure these gifts for years to come.

Now ladies don't forget to enter the next swap providing Char sets another one up. You will not be sorry you did.

Blessings to all!

Outside Pretties

2009-06-07T16:41:00.000-04:00

Isn't summer one of the most beautiful seasons!! I just love everything when it is in full bloom. This weekend was very productive for my hubby and I. I got most of my garden weeding done and my husband managed to get the extra water we needed for the pool so we he finally getting it ready for summer. I know it should have already been done but between track and softball, we just never seemed to find the time. Things are finally starting to slow down so we figured we better get busy or it wasn't going to happen.

As I walked around outside, I thought I would snap a few pictures of my favorite flowers and arrangements. This is just a basket sitting on my front porch. Don't mind the fishing box and the boots. My son thinks this is where his things go.

Here is another potted arrangement. Can you believe there is only one flower blooming in the whole thing. I don't know if it got in there by accident or if one flower was all that was potted.

I love chairs whether inside my home or outside. I think this looks so sweet with the welcome sign and milk can sitting beside it.

This is just a shot of some of my Tiger Lilies. I am waiting for them to bloom. They are just on the verge of of bursting open so it won't be long.

This is my most favorite chair. My mother in law gave me an old rocker that was beyond repair. She knew I would come up with an idea for using it. My hubby cut a whole out in the seat and here you have it, a flowering rocker.

This rock is very interesting. It came from a quarry. The hole in the center was made by a drill. I got this from a friend at work. Very interesting don't you think. Again don't mind the garden hose in the back. I think I forgot to put that one away.

This is another favorite of mine. An old bucket with a grapevine handle. Geraniums are one of my favorite summer flowers.

Last but not least up in the air. No I don't have a blimp in my yard but it did fly over our house this afternoon when I was out there with my camera so I thought I would snap a picture of it. It looked like I could have reached up and touched it. They fly over our house all the time it seems.

Well I hope everyone enjoyed their day as much as we did. I hope this week we get some rain. We put in our garden a few weeks back and I am getting tired of having to water it. Please Lord send down the rain.

Blessings to all.
~AMY~

Just Desserts

2009-05-28T10:49:00.000-04:00

It has been a very busy week for me but I'll spare you the details. Tonight didn't let up either. Last night I found out our new pastor and his family wanted to stop over for a visit this evening after dinner. I thought I should whip up some adult and kid friendly desserts just to be hospitable. Long story short, last night after getting home from church around 8:30, here is what I decided we would have.

Who doesn't love cheesecake! Mom this one is for you. I made one for Memorial Day and mom evidently didn't get a big enough piece. She has been begging for another since Monday.

I thought the kids might like something a little different so I made some chocolate chip bar cookies and some brownies.

Here we have your basic cut up cantaloupe just in case someone wants something figure friendly. This cantaloupe was so fresh. It made the whole kitchen smell wonderful. I think everyone should be able to find something they like.

Looking forward to some good conversation and maybe a little devotion.

Have a great evening friends.

Am I Lucky Or What!!!!!

2009-05-23T18:08:00.000-04:00

Am I the luckiest person or what!!! I along with many other bloggers participated in a "Primitive Porch Swap" set up by Char from The Pickled Pepper Patch. I just happened to get lucky and I was paired up with Char for this swap. You just won't believe what fantastic things she sent to me. They are all homemade except for one thing but I'm pretty positive Char could have made it had she taken a notion to do it.

Are you ready?????

Can you say "WOW!!!!

This is an incredible flower holder. I'm not so sure I want to put it out on my porch. I took this picture at the fireplace before I knew where I wanted to put this baby. Now it is sitting on my kitchen table with these lovely Geraniums from Joann Fabric. Char also said it worked great for holding rolls of toilet paper. Is that lady a genius or what!!!

This is a small hanging plant holder that I probably will put out on my porch. I need to find the perfect spot for it.

Don't you just adore this fly screen???? I wanted to make one for myself but why bother now! I already have one.

Some of you might remember this next treasure from one of Char's recent tutorials. Yes it is her game board. It is already hanging on the porch. The sweet little garden pick is perched in one of my plants in my living room.

I can't say thank you enough to Char for these wonderful treasurers. This swap was so much fun. I even joined her next swap the "Patriotic Porch Swap". Sorry girls this one is already closed. If Char offers one of these swaps again, don't miss your chance to sign up. You won't regret it I promise.

Have a Sunshiny Day.
Hugs,
AMY

Our Four Legged Friends

2009-05-20T14:35:00.000-04:00

I thought it would be nice to post about some of our precious family friends. You know the four legged kind. We have 3 hairy friends at our house. Chipper is 11 years old. He is the most gentle Shepherd around. He has been faithful and loyal to our family for a very long time. When he was just a pup, he used to run behind Aaron in the yard and his front paws would hit Aaron in the back of the legs. Aaron would be bruised up and down his legs. He was not hurting Aaron he just had big heavy feet. Everyone is terrified of him when they come to the house. Little do they know he is just a big baby. One floppy ear and one pointed one. I thought we were going to loose him this past fall. He either had a stroke or he had a bad case of arthritis in his hips. The vet says that is common with Shepherds so they just gave him some medicine and it seemed to make him better. He is a lot more active and he doesn't drag his back side like he was. Could you imagine having to put shoes on this guy. His feet are huge.

Now Susie is a real firecracker. She is 7 years old. She had a litter of pups to Chipper and they were beautiful. It wasn't a planned pregnancy. We weren't in the position to keep any of the puppies so we sent them out to good homes. Susie obviously isn't as big as Chipper but she looks just as mean with both her ears pointing up. She is a big baby none the less. I think Chipper would like to hook up with her again but so far we have been able to keep them separated. I love her eyes.

The UPS guy delivers my packages to me at work. He said there is no way he is getting out of his vehicle when we aren't home with those dogs watching over the house. Of course I know all they would do is lick him to death. I guess it is good that a stranger would think he might be eaten if he trespassed.

Our real baby is Isabella. Bella for short. She is a Schnoodle. If there is anyone out there that wants a house pet that doesn't shed and is the perfect example of obedience, this is a great choice. We got her when she was about 6 weeks old. She will be three this summer. She knows every trick possible. I think she even says "Momma" when I come in the house from work. We got her the year my oldest went off to stay at college. I was looking for in house protection since my husband was working nights at the time. She definitely lets you know when someone is in the drive. Look at those beautiful eyes of hers. I swear she is human sometimes.

I would love to hear about your pets if you have any, especially dogs. I am definitely not what you would call an animal lover but I do love our babies.

Have a great rest of the week my friends,

Hugs,

AMY

~A Mother.... Me ... and My Mother~

2009-05-08T13:35:00.000-04:00

Have you ever really thought about what it takes to be a mother? Starting out as a new mother isn't that big of a deal. You have to kiss all boo boo's and make them feel better, chase away monsters from under bed, cook a good hot dog, and know how to play hide and seek. As time goes on you have to have to know how to listen without commenting and know that when things are not alright, you aren't supposed to ask "what's wrong." Man that is hard to do sometimes.

My firstborn Aaron was my "Little Man." We did everything together. He was my shopping buddy and I was his biggest fan. He was so darn smart too. There wasn't anything that kid couldn't figure out for himself. He was so polite and well mannered that adults would come up to me in the store and say what a well behaved little boy he was. That was music to my ears. (sorry the pictures are so blurry. i had to take pictures of pictures for this post)

My "Little Man" is now my "Big Man". He is 21 years old and will embark on his Senior Year of College this fall. My hubby and I had already been married for 2 years when I was 21. I can't even imagine him being married now. I was Aaron's Biggest Fan when he played sports. He always asked me after each game, "Mom how come you are the only mother I heard yelling when we were playing?" I guess his playing just excited me so and I couldn't control my emotions.

My second little pride and joy was my baby girl, better known as "Sissy Girl." God blessed me with a beautiful curly red head baby girl. How lucky was I. Allison of course hated the red hair. For Christmas one year she asked Santa for a black wig. She loved to perform and sing for us. I thought she had star potential at an early age. I mean what mother doesn't think her little girl has talent!! Allison was such a momma's girl. She would tag after me and try to do everything I did. How easy things were then. (doesn't she look a bit like the lion from the Wizard of Oz?)

Now my "Sissy Girl" is a teenager and she thinks she knows it all. Everything that happens in her life is a major drama. I don't remember it being so hard when I was a teenager. Then ago that was a hundred years ago. Allison is a lot like her dad but we do have a few similarities. We both share a passion for clothes and we love to talk. To this day she still calls Aaron "Brother." I'm not sure she knows what his real name is.

I myself have been blessed with a very special mother. My mother is a God fearing Christian woman that has been there for me no matter what I have needed. Growing up the youngest of 10 children, I had to share her quite a bit with my siblings. Mom never made us kids feel like she loved one of us more than the other. (Although secretly I know I am her favorite. Right mom?) Finally at age 13, I had her all to myself. All my brothers and sisters were married off and had families of their own. Mom taught me how to cook and clean. She was the perfect example of how to be a good wife and mother. She taught me that God should be first in my life and I should raise my children in church the way she did her kids.

Mom and dad watched my kids while my husband and I worked. I think out of the 50+ grandchildren they have, mine are the closest to them. They took my kids everywhere they went. I think hanging around with mom and dad all day made them smarter in school as well. They were always around adults. When my dad died, my son fell apart. I didn't think he would ever stop crying that day. His best buddy was gone and there was nothing he could do about it.

Mom has struggled a big part of her life with health issues but she never let her pain show through to us kids. She has had multiple surgeries, hip and knee replacements, foot surgery, stomach surgery, etc. Never once do I remember hearing her complain about the pain she was going through. All she worried about was how her family was doing and was everyone alright. Her heart problems are our biggest concern with her today. She is now 82 and pretty much set in her ways so she has no desire to have anymore surgeries to fix her heart problems or any other problems she may have. God will see her through until her last breath is her motto.

Mom now lives alone in her own home on our property so she is never far from me. I see or talk to her everyday. She is more than a mother to me. She is my best friend. We go out to eat together, we attend church together and we also just sit around and talk to each other about everything. My mother knows more secrets about me than even my best friends in high school did. I adore her.

Now I'll share with you what my kids got me for Mothers Day. These are the most beautiful flowers ever. I have been so blessed by my children and words cannot express how much I love them. They are my heart and my soul.

In closing, I would like to say "Happy Mother's Day" to all my friends old and new. Have a wonderful day.

With Warm Hugs,
~AMY~

May 7, 2009 National Day of Prayer

2009-05-07T12:30:00.000-04:00

Today is National Day of Prayer. I don't want to offend anyone with this subject but since this is my blog and my thoughts and beliefs, I decided to share it with you. If you choose to read today's entry that is up to you. If you want to stop now that is fine as well. The choice is yours.

A friend forwarded this to me today and I thought it was print worthy.

A dog had followed his owner to school. His owner was a fourth grader at a public elementary school. However, when the bell rang, the dog sidled inside the building and made it all the way to the child's classroom before a teacher noticed and shooed him outside, closing the door behind him. The dog sat down, whimpered and stared at the closed doors. Then God appeared beside the dog, patted his head, and said,

'Don't feel bad fella'...they won't let ME in either'.

One woman was able to take prayer out of school but no Christian has been able to put it back in.

The bible says in Matthew 21:22 Red Letter Edition of the King James Version

"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." God himself made this promise to us.

The bible also tells us in 1 Thessalonians 1:17 We are to Pray without ceasing.

We as Christians better wake up and start doing what God expects of us. I would like to ask that anyone that is reading this stop and take a moment to say a prayer. It doesn't have to be a long one but just talk to God and tell him what you are in need of or just thank him for all that he has done for you and the many blessings he has poured out to you. I ask that you continue to pray everyday and not just today. Prayer changes things!!

With Love and Blessings,

~AMY~

Natures Beauty and then some

2009-05-03T20:15:00.000-04:00

I trust that everyone had a good weekend. Friday night after sitting in the pouring rain at my daughters track meet, I spent the evening with my mother who was having a rough time. She has a heart condition and her heart goes out of rhythm sending her pulse sky high. Around 2:00 am, it finally went back into proper rhythm on its own. Thank you Lord for not having to spend another night in the emergency room with her. Friends I would like to ask that you pray for my mom if she should happen to come to your mind through the week. She just hasn't been the same since my father died. We are approaching the one year anniversary of his death and mom still isn't quite to the point that she likes to stay by herself. Add that to all her health issues and it makes it very hard on her at times.

Now onto natures beauty. I have two of the most beautiful Rhododendron Bushes in my flower garden. Their blooms are just so magnificent. I decided their beauty was too wonderful to just leave outside that I decided to cut a few branches off and bring them inside. They just bring such a brightness to a room.

On a final note, I just wanted to show you a little something I have been working on for a couple of weeks. This is my for my friend Char over at The Pickled Pepper Patch. I was lucky enough to get her name for the "Swap" she created. The theme of this swap was "Porches." Sorry but I sealed the box before I took a picture of its contents. Not really! You'll have to wait until Char gets it to see what is inside.

I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend. Tomorrow our church is hosting its Mother/Daughter Banquet and a few of my sisters are going and taking our mother. This is always a good meal and wonderful fellowship.

Blessings my friends,
~AMY~

Blessed With A Beautiful Weekend

2009-04-26T22:18:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as much as I did. The Lord truly outdid himself this weekend with the wonderful weather he blessed Lisbon, Ohio with. I felt so alive and full of energy. Saturday I went planter shopping. The porch now features beautiful ferns and variegated pots. My garden rocker is sporting a beautiful Red Geranium.

I was even able to fit in a little Goodwill shopping and here is what I found. Pickings were slim but I'm happy with the two things I did get. Here is my new mold. I bet you can't guess what I will be making. I'll give you a hint.....Pantry Cakes. They will go under the fly screens I have yet to make. Maybe I will get energetic and do them both one day this week.

Next I found this wooden something or other. I think it looks like it might have been a drawer. The shelves really aren't deep enough to put anything on. It has two hooks on the back so someone must have had it hanging on a wall. Any ideas on what to do with it other than just hang it as is. Should I paint it or leave it plain? A little help here ladies.

Sunday was a good day. Just mom and I went to church. After church we went out for lunch. We had a really nice time. After we got home, hubby helped me pressure wash the deck and furniture and then I rearranged some things. I'll post pictures of that when I am all done. We took the swing out of the garage and got it all set up by the pool. I could sit there all day just swinging in the breeze. Finally night time had to come. We called it a day and just when we were ready to go inside and relax, hubby's fire scanner went off and away he went to a fire. I just came in and relaxed by myself. Living with a fireman, you get used to relaxing by yourself a lot. I'm not complaining here, just stating a fact.

I hope this week is as beautiful as this weekend was. I am so anxious for summer to get here and all its beauty. Wishing all my blogging friends a glorious week.

Hugs and Blessings,
AMY

Finally Some Good Goodwill Finds

2009-04-20T20:46:00.000-04:00

I'm always stopping by our local Goodwill to see if I might stumble upon some good finds. Up until last week I have never found anything that was worth buying to re-do. Finally I did get lucky my last stop. I bought maybe 7 different wooden pieces that I thought I might be able to transform or for a lack of a better word, "Primerize". I know that is not a word but I really think I like it. Say it a few times to yourself. I think you will like it as well. Anyways I am not the most confident painter but I decided to take a stab at it and see what I could do or rather re-do with these pieces. Here are 2 of the pieces I have finished so far. I think maybe I need to re-tweak them some more but for now I can live with them.

If you have any suggestions on how I can make these look better, I would really appreciate your input. Any painting advice would be greatly welcomed as well. I mainly put on a base color and then maybe a second color. I sand in my wear spots and then I either stain over the whole piece or apply a clear lacquer spray.

We are having some really wet weather this week so maybe I will find some more time to get a few more of my pieces done. Hopefully I will remember to take pictures of them and I will post them as I finish them.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week and don't forget to take time out of your busy day to tell someone just how much you love them.

Blessings Friends,
~AMY~

Singing His Praises

2009-04-17T11:06:00.000-04:00

I couldn't wait any longer to get the results of my re-scan so I called my doctors office with a desperate plea to find out if they had the results of my second scan back yet. They put me on hold and within seconds they were back on the line reading direct from the report to my ears.... "No detection of cancer or abnormalities". "Return to regular yearly scans." Praise the Lord. Do we serve an awesome God or what!!!!!

Thank you all for praying for me and I am definitely more calmer now.

With Heartfelt Love and Gratitude,
AMY

Feeling Down

2009-04-16T12:43:00.000-04:00

I wasn't going to post today because I just wasn't in the mood. Yesterday I had to have a re-scan mammogram done because of something that showed up on my original test last week. I know this is common for women to have to have a second scan but I am worried. My grandmother Olga had breast cancer. She was my mothers mom. Grandma Olga ended up having her breast removed. I'm trying real hard not to think about this but it is getting the best of me. I am a firm believer that God will take care of me and I know that he is more than able to take away any evidence that may have been on my original scan. Please say a prayer for me that my nerves will be calmed and I will have some good news to report in the near future.

Before I close, I wanted to share a few pics of my daughter at one of her track meets. She runs the 100m dash and the 400m dash. She is very fast but she needs to be even faster if she wants to win. She is working on it so maybe she will see a win soon. Allison is in the baby blue uniform (Lisbon) with the black under armour. She is in Junior High and she would probably kill me if she knew I posted these pictures of her. You know how teen girls can be.

Going to the starting line.

Staggered Start

Heading to the finish line.

Have a special day today friends,
Hugs,
AMY

What Should Have Been

2009-04-12T21:06:00.000-04:00

Good Monday Morning everyone. Today April 13th we should have been celebrating my mom and dad's 57th Anniversary but the Lord had other plans for my dad. You see my daddy went to be with the Lord on July 22, 2008. Mom and dad had a wonderful life together. Dad was a hard working self employed truck driver and mom was a stay at home mom. Together they raised 8 girls and 2 boys. Between me and my siblings, we gave our parents 24 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and 9 great great grandchildren.

Mom and dad were neighbors. I guess dad couldn't resist mom's beauty and mom couldn't resist dad's charm so eventually they got married. They had their ups and downs throughout their marriage but somehow they always managed to hang on to each other and work their differences out. They raised all of us kids in church and the majority of us are still serving the Lord today with our families. We never did without anything growing up. I wouldn't say we were spoiled children but we all knew how to work mom and dad to get what we wanted. Mom had more of the stern hand and with a few good tears we could have dad eating out of our hand.

Now that daddy is gone, we must all try to carry on and continue to make him proud of us. We all help in taking care of mom seeing to her daily needs. She is a very independent woman but she still likes having us close by.

Daddy I wish you and Momma a Happy Anniversary!

To all my blogging friends, if you still have both your parents living, be sure and give them each a great big hug and tell them how much you love them.

Have a blessed day,
~AMY~

Happy Easter Everyone

2009-04-09T15:15:00.000-04:00

We are having dinner at our house this Easter. It will be our first Easter Dinner without my daddy. Boy I miss him. Sunday morning we will be heading off to Church and then my mom will be coming to join us for dinner. No other family will be with us this year so it will be pretty simple and casual. We will have your average Easter Meal consisting of ham, vegetable casserole, calico beans, 7 layer salad, deviled eggs and let's not forget the most important part of our meal, dessert. That lineup will include cheesecake and pumpkin pie. Boy I'm getting hungry just thinking about it.

I thought I would share a couple of treats with you that I made last night. I got my inspiration for the Chocolate Birds Nests from Debbie at Ribbonwood Cottage. I just love her postings. I brought a few of these to work to share as well. No sense me eating them all. Don't they look yummy?

Chocolate Bird Nests

Butterscotch Bird Nests

My daughter is on Spring Break this coming week so hopefully I can take a day off work and spend it with her. Maybe we can do lunch or something fun together. Hubby can still go to work and my son can go to school. It will just be a girls day out. I think that sounds like fun. Maybe we can even take in some summer clothes shopping. Now this sounds like a perfect day off to me.

Well I better run. It's off to work on Good Friday.

Until Next Time....
~AMY~

Anxiously Awaiting Summer

2009-04-08T21:54:00.000-04:00

I just love Day lilies. My mother in law and I dug these up along the roadside at the front of our property three or so years ago. They have multiplied a great deal so I have transplanted small sections all throughout my flower beds.
I seem to have the most luck with hanging baskets of ferns on the front porch. We get full sun most of the day and these seem to hold up pretty good.

This is my flower bed on the left side of the house facing the front. Fresh mulch sure does have a way of making the flower beds look better doesn't it?

We re-stained the side deck a warm butterscotch color and I just love the way it turned out. The deck furniture also got a fresh coat of brown paint as well. It saved on having to buy new furniture if nothing else.

Just another view of the deck. See that 5th wheel in the background? I personally can't wait to get out in that baby and start doing some camping. More on that subject later.

Well that's all for now. I hope these bright and cheery summer pictures will help perk up any fellow bloggers that are tired of the cold and dreary days we have been having so far this Spring. I am so ready for summer and all the beautiful colors it brings with it.

Warm Smiles,
~AMY~

Newbie Here

2009-04-07T13:37:00.000-04:00

Good afternoon Fellow Bloggers.

This is my first post and I'm a bit scared. I have been following some of my favorite Blogs for some time now and today I decided to take the first step in creating a Blog of my own. I hope to have some interesting things to share in the near future. I love Prim Decorating and taking care of my family.

Until next time have a Glorious Day.

~Amy~

AT HOME WITH AMY

~In Need of A Favor~

~Am I Dreaming??~

~Looking for Inspiration~

Sale Going On

Run Don't Walk!!!

Taking Time Off

Porch Decorating Inspiration Needed

Helping A Friend Out

Prom 2011

~Thanks to Anne~

Giveaway You Won't Want To Miss

New 5th Wheel

~Fruit and Vegetable Ideas Needed~

Past and Present Giveaway Wins

Swappin In The New Year

More Random Livingroom Pictures

~Getting There~

~Give Thanks~

Sugar and Cinnamon Pantry Cakes

I GOT MY TREES!!!!!!!

~My WONDERFUL Weekend~

German Twig Tree Question??

So Very Blessed

~Fall Swap Goodies Have Arrived~

Football Homecoming!

Bittersweet Question

~Wood Anyone~

Caramel Apples Anyone!

Latest Project

Now Where Did They Go! What is this?

My Latest Purchase

~Look What The Mailman Brought Me~

Sun, Sand and Seafood

~Just Taking The Girls For A Walk~

Fabulous Giveaway

New Winnings

DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE

No Pictures...Need Advice

Dreaming Big!

~Happy Mother's Day.... Early~

My New Additions

Well Here They Are!

SIGNS EVERYWHERE!!

My Summer Swap Goodies Have Arrived!

What A Wonderful Time We Had!

*I Play To Win and I Have Been Blessed*

We Made It Home!

Florida Here We Come

Oh Happy Day!!

A Few Of My Favorite Pieces

Another Great Giveaway

My First Ebay Purchase

Check Out This Giveaway

Fire! Fire! Fire!

Don't Miss Your Chance

~The Best Trash Ever~

Snow, Snow, Snow and Some Makeovers

Finally Inspired

An End To Another Year

All Gone!!

My Busy Weekend

Amazing!!

Give Thanks

UPDATE!! One Pair Of Hands

Can You Stand More Goodies??

I'm A Winner!!

Christmas With a Capital "C"

Any Suggestions

How Cool Is This??

A Few New Prim Things

Brrrrrr!!!! Ahhhhh!! Much Better

Fall Baking

A Few Fall Touches

It's Springtime At My House

Fall Harvest Swap Goodies!!

~Absolutely Perfect~

Here for now But gone soon

Happy 4th of July To All

Labels from Yankee Lane Primitives

I Play To Win and I Have Been Blessed