BirchBerry Farms

My Christmas Wish

2011-12-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

It was merely by chance...a glance from a dear friends face that caught my attention. I went to Vollyball, like I do every Monday night. It was playoffs for Championships...a flury of fun to say the least---we won and after the game we all sat and giggled about certain things that had happened during the game. I looked over at my friend whom I have known for over 12 years and she is an awesome person as well as a player. Kind of heart and willing to help anyone in need ALWAYS. She didn't look as happy as we all were. I asked her if she was ok---never did I even for one second prepare myself for what she had to say. You see, she and her husband had been struggling financially for a while. We didn't even know it. To no fault of their own---it was a number of circumstances beyond their control that caused this to happen to them. She began to cry---now---knowing her as I do---I have never seen her like this in all those years----she told me that she didn't know what she was going to do about Christmas---her children are 6 and 8yrs old---and they still believe in Santa---it broke my heart to hear her telling me this----Well----I gave her a big OLE HUG and told her that she could just take that off of her plate---and that it was going to be taken care of---I felt her shoulders drop as I was hugging her as a great wave of relief came across her. I put out the word---to everyone in all of my circles---and I am happy to report that the out pouring of help was amazing to me---and humbled me to believe myself---to believe that there is truly indeed a Santa out there and that by the Grace of God he crossed my path with her sad eyes----we are getting them their gifts this next week and going to try to swing enough to buy her some groceries---much needed groceries I am told. So my Christmas wish---and my biggest wish to date is that you all take the time to open your heart and your eyes to see and hear and feel someones pain that is around you---to know where there is hurt and to be there to help as best as you can---the circle always completes itself---it absolutely does----and in this time of great celebration of the birth of Jesus---let us all remember---let us all remember that we have all been in the depths of despair from one time or another---and the simplest of things to us---can mean the World to someone in need. Bless you all this Holiday Season and Enjoy!

HUGE SALE on My Yummy WARM Mittens!

2011-11-14T07:07:00.000-08:00

I think I may have fallen off of the crafters wagon with this one! Seems I can't stop making these mittens and I have a bit of an overstock! So I am offering these at a Buy One Get One FREE through my BirchBerry Farms Etsy Shoppe! These are recycled upcycled and repurposed wool with matching polar fleece linings and are super warm and luxurious----a GREAT Christmas gift and you can keep one pair for yourself!!! Hurry in for best selection as the sale is only running for a short time! I also have been working hard on some new dolls and Winter/Christmas items in both Etsy Shops---so do check that out! Happy Holidays to you all and enjoy this beautiful Fall we have been having! Always, Renee :-)

Just Listed on WSOAPP Market Street

2011-10-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone---yes---why yes my pretties---it has been a LONG time since you have seen the likes of me around these parts! Busy Summer for me and I am just getting done with my job at the Garden & Landscape Center----I loved every minute of being there---It is an awesome thing when you work with people who enjoy doing what they do and it shows---besides---who could ever be cranky around beautiful waterfalls, plants and impeccable landscaping----NO ONE!! LOL Here are a couple of sets that I listed on the WSOAPP site---just finishing up with Halloween for the season---put alot of focus on the shop here in town and also a bit more on Etsy as well----things are going fabulously! Happy Fall everyone--- I am glad I am back! Look for me to be listing more items soon---I have a TON of Vinitage items that are going on my Birchberry Vintage Etsy site and some Shabby items that will be listed on my WhiteBirch Boutique Etsy site very soon----I also have some great deals on my soap in Birchberry Farms on Etsy---5 for $20 and 3 for $12 on the 6oz size of allllll the scents! The new Fall scents are to die for!!!

So Proud of My Buttercup!

2011-05-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

Just a little driveby wave---you all know how I like to show off my latest creations---well this particular one I made over 20 years ago and she continues to fascinate me----I am so very proud of her and her accomplishments---as I am with each and every one of my kids of course---however, with her being the youngest---it is her turn to shine---so I am throwing her in the spotlight here. She has been picked up by a major talent agency in St. Paul/New York and has started to do some pretty cool modeling work----Joe and I love to watch her and actually look like two hill billies standing on the outter parimeters looking in at all of it and marveling----I have been intrigued with her sense of 'not getting wrapped up' in the hype that sometimes follows this line of profession---she is totally grounded about this and is as kind and sweet as the day is long----I love you Ali Girl!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY to all of you and my wishes sent out are for a lovely breakfast in bed and some flowers and chocolates and that the sun is shining allllllll day long!!!

Big Time Bummer!

2011-04-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Just to let those of you who don't know---I lost my Dad this past week from complications around having knee surgery. He died on Palm Sunday in the hospital and will be missed dearly----I was very close to him and I am at Peace with his passing---it is just gonna be hard to get used to him being gone as I talked to him regularly. My life will be forever altered by this. I wanted to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to all of you who wrote me with well wishes----it is a great comfort to feel that loved and I am grateful to have such wonderful people in my circle of life----charmed beyond belief I say----

This is a photo of my immediate familly with Grandma smack dab in between---I am so proud of each and every one of my children---they handled the passing of their Grandfather with Grace and great respect.

Cement Eggs--Very Tres Chic

2011-04-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

Well I did it---I went and made some cement eggs for the Shop (Round Barn Potting Company) here in town----and honestly---I thought I was in Heaven! With the help from my sweet husband---we put together these large eggs and some small ones too----it was a true test of our relationship during this process as both of us had our own SEPERATE ideas of how this was all gonna work---me, of course, on the crafty fly by the seat of my pants side---and him, Mr. Cement worker, smooth cool and very calculated----I went to the $ store and got the plastic eggs, filled them up with a special mixture and viola---the hardest part was waiting for them to dry thoroughly before taking them out of the molds----patience TRULY is a virtue on this project my little chicadees! These guys weigh around 7 lbs. and are smoothed slightly flat on the bottom for easy sittin' ---as you can see by one of the pictures it is inside of a regular size door wreath to give you an idea of its size. 'Feather Your Nest' is a reflection of Hope~Peace~Faith and the thoughts of feathering your nest with all of those attributes.

We are getting ready for a HUGE Junk Market Show at the shop this coming weekend---I am all a flutter about it as I have made some really fun and simple lower priced French Inspired Goodies for the show---Lori has done a fabulous job setting up the new vinettes and it really does have a Euro feel to it and is absolutely a treasure trove of fabulous items---pop in there and see some of the new photos---she is always updating so it is really fun to check in there and see whats shakin bacon----ENJOY!

Ohhhh-La-Laaaaaaa Created from Burlap BUNNY!

2011-04-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

Well Happy Spring-O-Rama to all of you this fine Tuesday! I just listed this Burlap Bunny---and I have to tell ya she was an adventure to make! In keeping with the way that burlap works it was a bit of a nightmare to get her small pieces turned and stuffed without taking a trip or two to the funny farm---but we got 'er DONE and she is in my BirchBerry Farms Etsy! She was made from a vintage coffee bean sack and has PURPLE writing down her side---only on one side---I did that on purpose that way----kind of artsy fartsy look----she was stuffed with raw wool and is weighted onm the bottom---cool aqua blue glass eyes and button jointed arms----WAY Farmhouse Shabby Chic!----I am bringing 3 up to the shop today----my last of the Easter items----so if you are interested in her and she happens to get snagged off of Etsy to email me and I will see what is left at the Round Barn Potting Co. I also am kicking around making her into a pattern---I think I may be biting off more than I can chew as there is so much detail and directions and instructions---still working on that one in my teeny little brain---I will let cha's know if that materializes---Have a Happy Day and go outside to play if it is nice in your neck of the woods---it is here today and I am in LOVE that our birds are BACK! Don't freeeeget to feed them---long trip home---probably starving--poor things!

A Noteworthy Reflection!

2011-03-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

Big WINK! There is a saying----You Reap What You Sow----

A Shabby Cottage Low Boy I Just Had to Show Off!

2011-03-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

I just got done with two pieces of furniture for the Round Barn Potting Co. I was simply delighted to have the chance to work on my passion---which is turning old into new again---I did a small hutch in cream that came in two parts and this sweet and heavy low-boy----which was a MESS when I first got it and needed alot of work to get it fixed up---in fact, I almost didn't want to tackle it----but it beckoned me to make it purdy once again---it has a white sanded shabby finish with slate gray heavy sanded drawer fronts---the top 3 drawers are a lighter shade of gray to which I decoupaged French Script and torn love letters to the face fronts and sealed it---I had purchased some new brushed metal drabby silver handle pulls---which were a bit on the 'spendy' side---upon getting them home---after several trips to different places to find the best ones---I discovered that they totally threw the look of the cabinet off----so I got my handy dandy can of white spray paint out and painted the original ones that were on there to begin with----ahhhhhhh I LOVE when that happens----time well spent! The piece looks so much better in person and has a real Seaside Cottage look to it---and I am happy to report that I am very pleased with its overall appearance and soft subtle tone----Enjoy!

Happy Valentines Day My Sweet Tarts! Here's My Newest Girlie!

2011-02-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

Boy it seems like forever since I have posted---thought I would introduce you to my newest creation----Her name is Katherine and I have been working on her for quite some time now---3 weeks to be exact! She is my first Fine Art Doll of the year as it has been a bit since I have ventured down that road---I am listing her on Ebay tonite. Her head is paperclay and she is wearing a dress that I made out of a vintage pillowcase. I crackled her and stained and sealed her as well---her arms are wired and she is what I would call Simple Country Cottage as she is a little shabby as well. Don't mind the awful picture I took of her---I will be taking better ones for her listing---I JUST finished her and could HARDLY wait to share her with you all. Have a fabulously FUN Loving Valentines Day!!! PS. I also listed new items on wsoapp.org and Birchberry Farms on Etsy as well as White Birch Boutique on Etsy!!!

MITTENS are ALL on SALE in Etsy!!

2011-01-14T08:02:00.000-08:00

Mitten Mitten---who's got the mittens---well I DO ya Silly! I bet you are wondering why so many---welllll this winter started here rather early this year and it is so bitterly cold out that I just had to make more---I typically don't make them so late in the season, but I just couldn't resist! There are many to choose from and at a great clearance price and they are all listed in Etsy---and there is a surprise listing in there as well! ENJOY! Have a great weekend peeps---I am a free woman---hubbens went Ice Fishing with the fellas and I am going to play all weekend long! ttfn

Reflections of My Christmas!

2010-12-28T16:33:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas---HATE the hustle and bustle to get to the day---but muttle thru as best as possible without going to jail from hurting perfect strangers...LOL I found myself trying to 'find' Christmas in my heart for some reason this year---I felt as though I was missing it--that warm fuzzy feeling---usually it is there all on its own--but this year---this year was different---I watched all my favorite Holiday Shows---Charlie Brown and Rudolph and the Grinch---I did all of my usual baking---met up with friends and peeps for holiday cheer before hand and yet nothin'---until this one day---this one day that I went out shopping and left the house with a mission to get it all buttoned up and finished. Lists of scribbled notes of this and that on paper that had been crossed off of and re-assesed just to be crossed off again---food purchase lists mixed in with electronics mixed in with housewares and toiletries---unorganized would be putting it mildly! Here's what happened:

I went into the first store---outside was this young and very sweet tall and gangly African American boy---ringing the bells for the Salvation Army---singing Christmas songs with the biggest smile and the voice of an angel--I stopped and listened for a moment and said to him---Bless you for Ringing the Bell sweet child---and he hugged me and said Merry Christmas! Blessing number 1

Then I proceeded into the next store---I was at the checkout lane standing in line and I saw this old couple walk by holding hands---and when I say old I mean they were in their 80's---with this look of complete and udder love and happiness for each other and very smartly dressed---I noticed them stop to look at something---here it was this young boy---about 6 or 7 years old---whistling Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer---with a look of enchantment and joy on their faces ----he and his two other siblings and his mother came into the very line that I was in---and he continued to whislte away---I reached my hand out to touch the top of his head and smiled at him---he was so sweet. Blessing number 2

Then the last store I went into---I was wandering around for what seemed like HOURS looking for where in the heck one would put the Wax Paper if one were a stock person who even knew what wax paper was---I kept passing this woman pushing this cart full of stuff---she was a bit overweight and had the most happy and sweet rosey cheeks and pretty smile and was struggling to even walk----she says to me---you look like you are lost---to which I replied---I think I may be---I just wanna find Wax Paper and get the heck out of here---she says---and mind you ---she is not an employee at this store---I can take you there--so she does and it is quite a ways away from our original destination--and I say to her---awwww thank you---I think I need to take you with me the next time I go shopping!! She says to me with MUCH delight---that would be just fine---as I have no one---I hugged her and wished her a Merry Christmas---Blessing number 3

We go to Mass on Christmas Eve---and the Church is packed FULL---there are parents coming in with their children all dressed up---I had the best time before mass started--looking at all the children in their fineries--as I totally remember those days when my kids were young---so dang CUTE. As luck would have it---the Childrens choir was singing---during Mass---Silent Night---tears came strolling down my face as I sat and reflected on the things that I previously mentioned---and at that VERY moment I finally got the warm and fuzzy feeling that I had waited and wondered about---and that my dear friends---that was my Blessing number 4----

I would like to say at this time---Blessing number 5 for me will be..... that each and every one that reads this will think about the small incoincidental blessings that come our way daily---that you will stop and really take note to the great STUFF that is going on around us constantly---stop and think about the simple blessings we all have in our lives---they are there--trust me they are---we just don't always take the time to see them---take the time people---and know that if you do.... your heart will always be warm and fuzzy mode! Here's to a Happy 2011 New Year to all of You and Yours!

Look at This Gorgeous WINDOW!!!

2010-12-16T06:57:00.000-08:00

This was made by a customer of mine who purchased my 'JOY' window sconce pattern ---Her name is Cathy---is this not gorgeous or WHAT!!! I love that she sent this to me as it truly made my DAY! I love the tone of the window and the color of the wood around it---the warmth and style is incredible---it is always so nice to see when things are done up in someones own style---she added some really cool snowflakes to it as well---FABULOUS Fa-La-La-LA LAAAAAAA Cathy!!!

A Couple of Freebies for You this Holiday from Birchberry Farms!

2010-12-11T07:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to you and yours---here are a couple of Ideas I have for making your moola go a little further---my gift to you and Birchberry Farms Original work and concepts---

We make our gifts every year here at this house and have been doing it my whole life---these are easy and ECONOMICAL to make and are very lovely to give as gifts---My sisters and I love giving and receiving homemade handmade gifts---they are truly from the heart! ENJOY!!!! Oh---they are in the next two posts so scrollllllll on down!

My Little Snowman Globe!

2010-12-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

Awwww this one is so cute---I made these for the shop and they went like MAD---easy and very cheap to make--Let's get started!

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

Glass jar with lid (I have used pickle, spaghetti sauce,molasses,fruit & picante jars!)

plaster of paris

mica flakes or fake snow

snowman ornie (got mine at Target for $3 and its wood and has the cutest wire arms)

jute

faux pine

chalkboard paint (optional) for tag

cute cardstock & tagboard

chalk

wire

enamel cream colored paint (ceramcoat 'E')

glitter and glue

Hot glue gun

I took the plaster of paris and mixed it in a clear plastic bag---I cut the corner of the bag and squirted it into the bottom of my clean empty jar----about a cup of Pof P. Let it sit for a day--if you are inpatient--I put mine in the oven at 170* then shut the oven off and let it really just sit in there while I prepared the following. The ornie I got from Target I took the hanger out of and the hokey scarf from its neck--I painted him with glue and rolled him in mica flakes and set him to dry. I took a piece of tag board and cut a cute tag out and painted it with chalkboard paint and backed the tag with cute paper after the paint dried. I punched a hole thru it and strung about 24" of jute thru the hole and set my chalkboard tag aside for now. I took my jar out of the oven and made SURE the Plaster had dried, then I took my glue gun and dropped a GOB of glue onto the middle of the dried plaster in the jar---I also added a titch to the bottom of the snowman and I carefully set him on to the glue--I hurried and threw a handful of mice into the jar before the hot glue dried so it would stick to the mound and cover that up---I kind of swirled it a bit while keeping a FIRM finger on the snowmans head so he wouldn't move. I painted my inside and outside of the lid with cream colored acrylic enamel and let that dry well then I painted it with glue and glittered the lid top so cutely! I then wrote 'JOY' with chalk onto my little tag and then I wired a piece of wire around the chalk and twisted it then around the top of the jar below the 'lid screw line'. I then wrapped my jute around the top of the jar and added the little pine sprig and tied my jute into a bow. I then made on my printer a little slip of paper that reads---Let it Snow Let it Snow Let it Snow and I decopauged that to the jar on the bottom edge and I glittered that as well ---carefully avoiding getting that glue and glitter onto the glass part---just the slip of paper needs that! I twisted the cover onto the top and smiled cuz it is so dang CUTE and easy!!!!

My 'Believe' Crenolin Hanger!

2010-12-11T07:03:00.000-08:00

WHAT U NEED (MATERIALS)

crenalin or stiff fabric enough for your triangle size

instant coffee

sewing machine & thread

red tinsel wrap (preferrably with wire thru it)

red ink pad (staz on is the best ink ever!)

letter stamps & snowflake stamps

rhinestones---fake will do JUST fine

This is made from Crenolin or very stiff fabric that was used in earlier times for stiffening under dresses and bustier's. I cut triangles out of it that were approx. 8" from bottom point to top edge---I coffee stained them all and put them in the oven at 170* until dry---I got some red cheap tinsel that you use to wrap up gifts with at this time of year and I stitched the triangles ( finger folded the crenolin first) over that tinsel then with a zig zag stitch making sure I left plenty of tinsel on each side to hang the piece on a window or cupboard or tree---I also tied knots on the ends of the tinsel after I cut it so it wouldn't come apart--after I got my 7 triangles sewn onto the tinsel, I clipped the loose threads, and I stamped my letters one by one on each triangle and I also did snowflakes---in RED--the stamps I got at Archivers for $10--they come in a clear package and are made of foam--they have all sorts of them in different styles and fonts. I then glued little rhinestones in each of the centers of the snowflakes using gem glue and viola! I also did these up in the word JOYEUX in black with silver tinsel and black snowflakes and clear rhinestones---way way cute!

It's the 5 Golden Rings Promo on WSOAPP!

2010-12-08T05:24:00.000-08:00

The peeps at WSOAPP have been hard working and hiding things within the shoppes---they have hidden 5 Golden Rings (one per day) and the first one to email in and tell where the numbered ring is for that day wins a prize! I have to tell you that the shoppes are looking great and are stocked and ready to roll---so make sure you go on a treasure hunt for them there rings!!! Don't you just LOVE surprises!!

Go into WSOAPP.orgs group and click on the 5-Rings promo tab to get in the FUN!

Market Street Listings on WSOAPP Dec. 7th!!

2010-12-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

Howdy peeps---it is Market Street TIME at WSOAPP and the Listings are up for the 7th of December Launch---head on over with a cup of coffee and take a gander and what everyones got cooking for this Holiday! I will be listing several more items tomorrow morning---just don't have the energy tonite----pooped out! I also will be sending out my December Newsletter tomorrow with special deals for the month---so if you would like to be included in that and you are not already a recipient of my newsletter ---please do gimme a shout and I will see to it that you get on the list!!! These are my Belsnickel Santa's (don't even know if I am spelling that correctly) and a Rolly Polly Felted Wool Santa that will be listed tomorrow---Enjoy the rest of the evening!! Oh!1 and I just got 15 new pairs of my signature repurposed wool 'Love You Winter' Mitties which will be on Etsy tomorrow then up to the Round Barn Potting Co. as well!

It's All About The Merry-ment!!!

2010-11-29T08:33:00.000-08:00

It is always all about the Merry-ment....Thanksgiving just whizzed on by---without a single piece of pie left to be had anywhere's in this house, sooooo I am sitting here reflecting on the Holiday with a very lonely cup of java in hand---and here's what I came up with---days of prep work---nooo months it seems---baked and baked and had lists of grocery 'runs' for this and that (all good stuff mind you) and of course we had to go several times the DAY before Thanksgiving just to feel what crazy truly is----and then the DAY--the DAY that we cook a very large Turkey in our oven--we overshoot the baster right over the top of the large bird and spray the back of the oven with drippings that run to the bottom and start a small fire---no biggie---except that everyone is now standing IN the kitchen--and are totally unaware of the impending danger---I would like to say that I usually enjoy vistitors in the kitchen while I am cooking---even though my kitchen is very small, it seems to be the place everyone NEEDS to be--I think it's because all the good stuff is stored there----OR could it be that they just really want to be around me---yup--true---it's gotta be me---as the only time I didn't have someone asking me some silly question that makes me get knocked off task and have to THINK--OR holding out an empty glass like I am supposed to remember what was once in there and replace that liquid with a new batch of WHATEVER---the ONLY time I had no one talking to me ('cept the voices in my head) was when I went to the bathroom---soooooo as I was looking at the bottle of homemade pure vanilla that I steeped using fine brandy and madagascar vanilla beans and thinking--hmmmm--I wonder if anyone would notice me taking shots of that here and there----didn't happen--but thought it---I then did the Hokey Pokey and turned myself around---only after trying the several different wine selections my son brought---let's not even go down the road of menapause and that falling on the happy occassion---AND the fact that our 11 year old German Shepard chose to have a leaky bladder that particular week---yaaaa--let's not even GO THERE!! One added note---I was very Thankful of all of my Blessings and the day actually was WONDERUL---and that my dear ones is truly what the day is supposed to be!

Here is a picture of some of my new items that I have listed in WSOAPP. org and Birchberry Farms Etsy---and the window picture is an old window from my childhood home that I placed a large glass snowflake and glass icicles on it as well---that is mine here at my house---just wanted to show it off----tres chic! ENJOY!

Homemade Paperclay Recipe!!

2010-11-18T16:44:00.000-08:00

After going to Michaels to get my paperclay and giving them an arm and a leg to purchase it---well I decided to make my own---and yup---it really works and has a great consistancy---this one here is a keeper---so jot it down!

Homemade Paperclay

Stuff you'll need:

Paper scraps (any kind, newspaper, construction paper, etc)

Flour

Water

Blender

Plastic bag or plastic container for storage

Start with about 2 cups of paper, torn into strips. Add 4 cups of

water

and blend until it is mushy. Remove the paper from the blender and

squeeze out all the water you can. I poured mine into a strainer and

just picked up handfuls at a time, then put them into a large mixing

bowl

after I squeezed out the water. Mix 1/2 c water and 1/2 c flour in

mixing bowl. Add the paper pulp after water is squeezed out. Knead

until it

has the consistency of soft dough. You may need to add more flour as

you go. Now you can use it as you would paper clay. I've noticed it

dries slower than paperclay, so after I finish my piece, I dry it in

oven at 150 Some people use a hair dryer,until the surface is dry,

then let it air dry for 1 or 2

days, but this could vary. After it is dry, you can sand and paint

it.

Store any left overs in a plastic bag or airtight container in the

refrigerator until you're ready to use it!

Unbelievable!!!!--- 'Believe' Christmas Hanger

2010-11-14T05:44:00.000-08:00

There have been times in my life when I have made things and thought they were just the bomb diggity---and sometimes I am right and sometimes of course not so right---this little hanger I designed last year---made them and brought them up to the shop here in town---I thought---hmmmmm--these are cool---Well---either I was ahead of myself or behind in the thinkin for what peeps were wanting in my area---cuz I didn't sell a one----soooooo this year----this year I decided to list them on Etsy---I had the listing up and it sat and it sat---for about 3 weeks----then for some 'trip' of faith I ended up on front page in a treasury---and whamoooo gazowee---I sold all of the ones I had here and I am on my second batch----at first I was totally amazed at how this all worked----almost 3 years have past that I have first started to list on Etsy---and regularly too----it was like my guardian angel was pokin my butt with a stick most of the time to get MOVIN---alright alright!!!! I got it!!!!! Don't get me wrong---I am diggin the fact that I am selling these like mad----funny part of it is---and my regulars all know this about me---(I think I have ADD) I am having trouble setting down my new creations that I am working on to make these---and correct me if I am wrong---am I not doing this as a form of income??? Yes---why yes I am---It cracks me up----well---back to making cones and wiring them---I have orders to fill and the day is just getting started-----OH and just for the record---I did design a new one for this year---and that will be listed this week on Etsy---it is rather cute if I do say so myself---OH BOY--here we go again!---I will however, be stopping for a time this afternoon to watch my beloved Vikings 'swirl' the tank once again this week---I just can't get enough of the pain and suffering of watching them muttle through this season---now THEY are really making me NUTS!!! Short Trip I know! PS. Please feel free to order one of these if you would like---I really do like making them---and don't want you to think otherwise! Later Sweet Tarts!

A FABULOUS Cranberry Bread Recipe!

2010-11-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

This is quite possibly one of the best breads I have ever made---it is fabulous! Just in time for the holidays it is sure to be one of those recipes people will want a copy of! AND I am pretty sure it is good for you as well---not alot of sugary stuff in it--- ENJOY!!!

Cranberry Pecan Oatbread

1 1/4 C. Flour

1/2 tsp. Baking powder

1/2 tsp. Baking soda

1/8 tsp kosher salt

1/8 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice

1/2 C oats

1/2 C honey

1/4 C vegetable oil

Juice and zest of 1 lime

1 egg

1/4 C milk (I tried this w buttermilk and YUM!)

1/2 tsp. Vanilla bean paste (regular vanilla extract works fine)

1 C fresh cranberries

1/2 C toasted pecans -chopped

1. Preheat oven to 350, grease an 8x4 pan

2. In large bowl stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice and oats.

3. In small bowl mix together honey, vegetable oil, juice and zest of lime, eggs, milk, and vanilla bean paste.

4. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just moistened. Stir in cranberries and pecans.

5. Bake 40-45 minutes until tester inserted in center comes out clean.

And the WINNER is!!!!!

2010-10-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

The Winner for the drawing for my witch is---drum roll please----Sue--from OodleKadoodle Primitives----thanks to my other entries and have a FABULOUS Halloween!!!!

Fa-La-La-La---LAAAAAA---Yep Winter Stuff!

2010-10-20T10:36:00.000-07:00

I just listed some of my new Winter things----in Etsy---and I sure don't mind tellin ya's that I am really pretty sure I missed a couple of months in here somewhere's---they just went and doggone whizzed by my head---almost the end of October you say???? Pishaaaaawwww----I am just now getting around to realizing that----dag nabbit----soooo what happens next? I suppose you are gonna tell me Thanksgiving---yup---I was affraid of that----Good Golly Miss Molly!

So for your enjoyment I have added some snow falling to my little blog----and soon will be changing my music to Christmas Carols---NOT quite there YET!

FREE Give AWAY!!! Hurry Hurry Hurry!

2010-10-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Yeppers my LOVELIES---this witch is going to someone as a give away to say THANK YOU to all the great customers and visitors that I have aquired through my years of selling online and at the shops--I do appreciate you guys big time! For simply posting a comment on my blog you will get one entry. For linking me and adding my give away to your site(s) (Facebook, blogs, websites etc etc) you will get 2 entries for each, just let me know that you did that. Simply snatch the picture of the witch and let others know about my freebie with my link here and viola! Good Luck!

Just listed a TON of SHTUFF on Etsy!!!!

2010-10-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Yep---I sure did---I am doing a driveby wave howdy and to let cha's know that I just listed some stuff on Etsy in BirchBerry Farms and WhiteBirch Boutique---soap is on sale as well----have a great day y'all!

Soooo This is what Insanity Looks LIKE!

2010-10-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

For about 12 days straight---I have made my Family, my Friends, and MYSELF absolutely nuts---yup---this is what the LAST push of getting Fall stuff done looked like at my house---pieces and parts of this and that all over the place. In the picture you will notice that there are multiples of some things---I only set that up to take the pictures as there wasn't enough room to do all of the items in the pictures. The pumpkins with the curly stems---there are actuually 14 of them and are up at the shop here in town as of this weekend---the witches on pedestals--there were 6 of them---each different---the fat witches--there were 4 of them and the pumpkin heads as well 4 each---and all different---there are 4 of the green headed witches--way too cool----honest to goodness I thought my family was gonna run away from home---probably wouldn't have been a bad idea--LOL. I am going to be listing all day today and tomorrow to get the last of these items out the door---they will be on Etsy and on my WSOAPP site----I also am offering a SUPER deal on my soaps in Etsy----so do check in this week and see what's shakin!!! Later Peeps!!!!

Have Brush Will Travel!

2010-08-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

Helllloooooo my dears---yup---it's me---well at least I think its me---I am bangin into myself coming and going---teehee----Heres some work I just completed at a Restaurant called Jimmys Pizza in Becker MN. A friend of mine aquisitioned me to do the paintings on her walls---I had a BLAST doing it---and it was a great diversion to the stupid stuff I have swirling around me constantly---yes---I said stupid---stupid stupid STUPID stuff! Summer is slowly dwindlin down and honestly the weather has been really good here in my parts---a little more TOASTY than normal---perfect for me as I am kind of a 'Outta the Pan into the FIRE' sort of gal---not on purpose tho!!! LOL

The large clock actually WORKS---I cut a hole in their wall and placed the mechanism in there---AND the dang deal is 5ft in diameter---very cool! The designs were done free hand with many many layers of paint were done to get the right effects---that's me doing the 'high finance' part---not good with a calculator at ALL---

Grand Opening Celebration!!!!

2010-08-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well looky here---WSOAPP has a new site and we are brimming with excitement to show it off to you! Our Grand Opening Celebration!!!! The artists have their shops all stocked up and ready to roll---go on in and do check that out---it is surely going to make you smile!!!!
Simply click on the link below!

WSOAPP MARKET NEW STREET

Primitive Folk Art Goth Witch on Ebay later this Evening!!!!

2010-05-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Ohhhhh BOY am I ever thrilled to present to you my newest creation----'Countess Taryn VonAshburg' in all her loviness---she will be on Ebay this Evening---Hope you all like her---she is my most favorite witch I have ever made---full of character and detail!!! Got to go for now---I am getting hollered at for not doing what I should be doing when I should be doing it---HA--go figure!!!

I am Just Skip-Taggelin' Along!!!

2010-05-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

I am proud to announce our son Ryan has graduated from The University of Minnesota with an Interior Design Major!!! YEA!!! I am bustin buttons allll over the place---his Thesis has been published and he is currently working on the prototype to this new concept in design that he implemented in his thesis----very proud----do NOT ask him to help ever pick out a paint color for any room----apparently Interior Designers get confused with Interior Decorators or he will snap like a saltine----ahhhhh kids---they JUST crack me up!!!

What is Wrong with People!

2010-05-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

A very sad thing happened here yesterday---in a nearby community---an officer was shot and killed still seat belted in his squad car---responding to a possibe carjacking---having family and friends who serve----It hit me hard---just seemingly another day this fine officer came to work to do his job---and doesn't get to return home to his wife and children---I am saddened by this even though I do not know him personally ---it is still very tragic----please pray for all of our/your community leaders who are out and about doing what they were trained to do---protect and serve---it is a different, more angry time in our world right now----and I truly wish it would stop---right now----TODAY!

My New Shop is OPEN!!!!

2010-04-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

WHITE BIRCH BOUTIQUE

I have a new endeavor---it is called White Birch Boutique and it is some of the items that I make for the Round Barn Potting Company. I love the fresh look of French Inspired art---in fact--Lori---the owner of the RB pulled me into that whole thing kickin and a screamin---now I can't get enough of it!!! Here's a little sample of what I have listed over in Etsy under my new name--oh--no worries---I am still making my other stuff---now I am trying to see if I can manage all three of the shops over there at the same time--HA!

AND She Does It AGAIN---Makes me LAUGH!!!

2010-04-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

AND She Does It AGAIN---yup another installment from my sister who has got an uncanny knack of making all of us girls laugh when it is needed the most---apparently this must be her 'position' in this world---and I am truly happy for that---here is her Friday message to me and my sisters---I about pee'd in my pants!!!! I hope no one is offended by anything in this story---if you are---I am sorry!

Hey Girlies, Once again, I have a funny story to report in regard to those crazy clients of the office across the alley.

You may wonder, can a skin head carry 7 DVD's without a bag, talk on a cellphone, and ask directions to the legal aid office while riding a bike? The answer is NO. I feel personally responsible for this, as he asked if I knew where the legal aid office was and I pointed and said "under that big blue sign that says Legal Aid". He turned to look and crashed into the telephone pole, resulting in a tangled mess of swastikas (sp), sunglasses, DVD's and pride. I was glad to see that he was not hurt, what with the dangling chains and all, it could have been disastrous, but he thanked me none-the-less. I can't help but to feel a bit guilty, especially since I just know his copyof Thunderdome is ruined.It is amazing all the knowledge I have gleaned from these chance encounters in the alley. I would like to share some of them with you.

How many people can you fit into a 1997 Chevy Malibu? 9 1/2, if the dogkeeps his head out the window.

Do you need teeth to whistle loudly? No, but it works best if you would like to speak coherently after grabbing your intended party's attention. Really, all I could get from the conversation was Jess, Watermelon, IceAuger and Goat. Not quite sure how they all mesh together. I just pointed to the big green building, he smiled and nodded.

A stroller NEVER works well on stairs. It's just not engineered for that type of terrain.

When wearing white knit shorts, the wearing of underwear is not an option.

It is not necessary, with a four door vehicle, to have all the doors in working order. All you need is one. Climbing over the front seat is not a problem, unless you are wearing a tight dress. Coincidently, this trick also works with minivans--as long as the back hatch opens, it's all good.

And last, but not least, the mullet, as a hairstyle, is not dead. It is alive and well and living in Northern Minnesota.Have a great weekend! m.

AND THERE'S MORE!!!!

OMG!!! And I am not making this up.....I just got another tip from the Crazy Parking Lot Clients--more words to live by--Friday must be bonanza day or something. A depression in the black top of a parking lot, strategically placed in front of a door (big white metal pannelled structure, brass knob about halfway down), marked with a mat on the ground that says "Welcome" signifies that you have parked in front of a doorway. We apologize for the dents in your bumper, however, we were not aware you had parked in front of our door until we had opened said door.

And the WINNER IS........

2010-04-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in my drawing---I sure had fun doing it!!! So without further ADO--- the WINNER IS: Sandy of AZBelle----Congratulations!!! Please send me your address Miss Sandy so I can get that in the mail for you!!! You can send it to my email: rmellena@mninter.net Thank You again to everyone!!!

2 More Days To the BIG Free Giveaway!!

2010-03-29T17:38:00.000-07:00

HURRRRRY ---there are only 2 days left to get your name in to the drawing!!!

It's a Give Away!!!!

2010-03-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

In Honor of my new line of soaps and lotion I am having a BLOG party to kick it off!!! YEA---I am giving away 1--8oz bottle of my New Sweet Annie Lotion and 1--6oz bar of one of my new Essentials Soaps 'Rosemary'-----Oh BTW---these items and many more are listed on Etsy right now!

Here's how to enter---for each you receive one entry-----

1. Snag my 'giveaway' picture and link it in your blog or website (let me know that you did do that thru email or comment!)

2. Sign up for my Newsletter (link for that is at the top on the right hand side)

3. Leave me a comment

Basically, you could end up with a maximum of 3 entries if you do all of those things---whooohooooooooooo how easy is THAT? The drawing for this will be on March 31st and the winning person will be notified and then posted onto my Blog as the winner!!! Good LUCK!

Yep Yep--It's that time--March Market Street Offerins'!

2010-03-06T20:14:00.001-08:00

I am pooped---it has been a long day---Joe was gone for the weekend up with the fellas snowmobiling---and whilest he was gone--- I used my every second wisely!! Here are my two Bunny girl offerings----They are looking for new homes and would be happy to hop on over to yours!!!!

I made 12 batches of lotion today too---yes---it's about time--I hear ya's!!!---those ARE getting listed tomorrow---the Sweet Annie scent is in this batch and if I may say so---SIMPLY DIVINE!!!

My Newest Listings in Etsy!!!

2010-02-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

Terracotta Pots and Burlap---Holy COW---what a cute look that turned out to be---I made a bunch of these for the Round Barn potting Company and held a few back to list for my customers---I chose these blue and green hues---drabby as all get out! I am very happy to present them to you today----I also got my new soap cuts up there as well---next on the agenda---making LOTION and the cuttie patootie tags and soap sets---my head is about ready to spin right off of my shoulders---I am gee-ing with enthusiasm!!! Have a great day my lovelies---oh--wait---heard the other day on the news that 48 states had snow on the ground---YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDIN MEEEEEEE!!!!!!!! Enough already with the winter stuff---can we please move on to warmer weather---pretty please?????

I'm So Excited!!!!!

2010-02-18T06:17:00.000-08:00

Hello My Dear Blogger Friends~~~ I am so excited I can hardly stand it---I have been driving myself nuts as of late--short trip I know---but I am working on a new line of bath and beauty---I have just wrapped up this week with my 16th batch of soap in 10lb logs that need to be cut~~ I am working towards making a new emergence in the natural soap world by cutting the bars to reflect a better size and feel, more homeopathic essential oil based soaps, natural colorings, new packaging and soap set offerings---a better wholesale line and and and----I am making LOTION now too---who knew it was gonna be so darn FUN----I made my own Sweet Annie Oil and have made lotion using that oil---OMG--if you like the smell of Sweet Annie--which has alot of great attributes you will LOVE this lotion! I have gathered all of my implements to put allllll of this together and with any luck (if my family just lets me FLY without any debacles til MONDAY) I will have this up and running---fingers crossed and duct tape ready to use on anyone in this house that messes with this grand plan! Can you feel the determination or WHAT! I can't sore with the Eagles if I am flyin' with the Turkey's---a metaphor for the day!

PS. The picture is one that Ali took last year at our cabin---think SPRING!!!!

A Little Burlap Bear

2010-02-06T15:12:00.000-08:00

I just got done making this Burlap Bear---and OMG---I am in LOVE with him---I named him Burley---I hate the pictures I took of him today---so I am gonna have to take another batch tomorrow before he gets listed on EBAY---He is made from a Burlap Coffee Bag and is weighted and has jointed arms and legs and glass eyes---I really wore my patience to a FRAZZLE with sewing and turning his narrow pieces--but we got r done!!!!

Be sure to check in on WSOAPP Market Street Shops---all of us have listed for the 7th of February Launch---it promises to be wonderfully spectacular!!!

Burley on Ebay Listing Link

Happy Valentines Day Gift Sets On Etsy NOW!!!

2010-02-01T15:25:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day is RIGHT around the corner---and I just listed 10 gift sets that I am sure will please---they are at a great price point and the shipping is also reduced for quick sale---just my little way of saying thank you thank you thank you to all of my customers---I am truly blessed!!! This is a mere sample of the ones that I have listed---all in Etsy!!!! Gotta run for now---I am supposed to be grocery shopping---yippity dang skippy!!!!

Oh Nooooo!!! My Hopeless Sad Sunday

2010-01-25T08:33:00.000-08:00

Contrary to what people may say about the Vikings loss---I for one am very proud of them---it is soooo easy for all of us to sit and scrutinize each and every play---each mistake as if they (the Viking players) were the stupidest people on the planet---Cracks me up to realize that obviously he was a FORCE to be reconned with as they double teamed him on every play---I have to say that I enjoyed each and every minute watching them play from the start of the season to the end. As sad as I am that they didn't win--I am sitting here relishing in the fantastic season they did have. It wasn't just about my cutie patootie Brett Favre--as I am in love with several others on the team---it was about the whole team and what HE did to bring great chemistry and spirit to MN. He made that team rise to the occassion by giving it their all---no matter what---I watched the game in horror to see him get laid out 15 times or more HARD on the ground---I watched his wife and daughter in the stands being upset whenever that would happen---he is in my estimation one of the BEST athletes and QB's EVER---I care not what anyone says about him waivering on coming back or not---he has that right and he has TOTALLY earned that in my opinion--he works so hard each and every game and puts his heart and soul into it---he has built up a HUGE offense and allowed that to be very deep by giving numerous players the opportunities to move the ball. Obviously the best two teams are going to the BIG DANCE---and that is how it should be--those two teams were top of their divisions throughout the season and our loss last night by 3 points proves that we were in line for that to happen--it was a hard game to watch--but I am proud of them and very proud of Brett Favre---Hold your heads up MN---He'll be back---I just KNOW it! It breaks my heart to see how beat up he got----oh---and BTW--- 40 year olds are NOT dead---they just get better with age and have alot more patience with the ball---TRUE THAT!

The 1st Window Pattern is HERE!!!

2010-01-14T16:34:00.000-08:00

I have my first window pattern done and put into pdf form---Thank YOU so much to Mare from Oakhollow Primitives---she did the transformation for me---and I don't know what I would have done without her---She always has such GORGEOUS things listed in WSOAPP Market and in Etsy so please check her out---she is a good friend and amazing artist!!!! Love ya Mare!!! This Pattern is for the 'NOEL' window pictured. Each Pattern is a One of a Kind BirchBerry Farms Original Design & Concept. You get the instruction sheets on how to's, the templates and diagrams for placement. All the info you need to complete this frosted window. Please keep an eye out for more current to season window patterns----I am working dilegently to get those completed and listed.

PRICE for Pattern will email to you in pdf Form: $10

Purchase Item

Hola My Pretties!

2010-01-08T07:41:00.000-08:00

Howdy---well I am here in the house toasty warm---just got back from Caribou where I met my cousin for a wonderful cup of campfire mocha coffee and I am just posting a quick note all jacked up on caffeine---LOL----

I am running a little sale in my Etsy--free shipping on mittens until Valentines Day (US ONLY sorry!)--do check that out---they really are wonderfully warm and fashionable!

To all of you sweet tarts that have been emailing me about the window pattern--thank you so much for being so patient with me---I am having some issues with my reformatting into pdf files---I really wish I knew why---so I had to call in the big guns to help untangle the mess that I have created with alllll of my pattern files----yup----never a dull day here! Just wanted to let you know though---

It has been below zero here for the past two weeks---let's not even factor in a little ditty we lovingly call WIND CHILL---and while I am not complaining---aww heck--YES I AM---I have never hated winter as much as I do this particular year---and I am a winter girl---so I have figured out that being in menopause is really messin with me---hot flashes and all and I am now resorting to being happy not really going anywhere---anytime---sooooo if the people that reside here are thinking that grocery shopping is in the near future--well they better start saying their prayers that it gets above freezing soon---cuz this chick is staying PUT ---I don't really mind pb&j sandwiches----nope!

My WSOAPP Market Offerins' for January!

2010-01-06T13:45:00.000-08:00

I have been STUCK in the Prim Prim world for a couple of months---and it has been great to go back to the things I have known to LOVE all these years----I have 4 dolls listed in my Market Street Shoppe and would love you to pop in there to see all of the fabulous artists' works for January----Valentines Day is right around the corner--and I don't know about you guys---but I sure could use some LOVIN' these days!!! LOL Here is the link and a peek at one of my creations!!!

WSOAPP Market Shoppes

The Pattern is Coming on Etsy!!!!

2009-12-15T19:47:00.000-08:00

I have had the best time ever creating these cool frosted windows for the winter time---I designed a bunch of different ones for the shop and thought to myslef yesterday---why wouldn't I try to make a pattern for these and sell the templates and directions for this---hmmmm (tapping my finger on my lip) soooo I said 'WHAT THE HECK?" and I am gonna give this a try---I have three designs that are easy enough for me to explain in detail---without doing that thing my MOM is so famous for---explaining things to DEATH---there will be three different designs/patterns listed on Etsy tomorrow and my pattern site and here on the side panel of my blog----with the purchase links---haven't decided what to charge---that is still in the works!

My Sister Should Have Been a Writer!

2009-12-10T19:30:00.000-08:00

Okay---I pipe off at the slightest of conundrums---of this I know--but I have to tell you guys---my sister Mary---she has a God given talent---she should have been a writer---she keeps my sisters and me in STITCHES---she sends us emails that are so very funny--your day just melts away---this particular one was sent today--this after a huge storm hit the southern half of MN Tues and Wed and Northern MN usually gets the brunt of all storms that pass on this a way! So here it is---this poking fun at my sister in New Ulm----and Chicago---and of course me in Minneapolis----Mary lives in Hibbing (northern MN)

Hey Girlie Whirls, Just checking in to see how my more southern relatives are dealing with the blizzard that has struck every other portion of the country except for the Iron Range. Oh ya, me and Jack Frost, we're through. He breezes through the area,doesn't say hello or let anybody know he is in town and then leaves old manwinter here to do his bidding. Well, enough is enough.I am tired of watching little children on the news, blissfully playing,making snow angels in 3 inches of melting muddy snow, home because school has been cancelled because their parents are too stupid to drive on the roadways when flakes fall from the sky. Tired of watching the Weather Channel's Mike Siddell dressed from head tofoot in Carhart's, hiding his face from a treacherous -5 degree poundingwind and expecting worse conditions--"windchill temperatures may dip below-10 degrees, so this is a dangerous storm"---HA.Tired watching the news clips involving difficult travel. So help me God if I see another Toyota, spinning out of control on glare ice, I am going to slap someone. New Rule-if you can't skate, you CAN'T DRIVE. Tired of living in the only place where when the sun comes out, it gets COLDER. So, Jack, me and you are done. I will no longer longingly look out at the northern sky and pray to see you. I will no longer google the national weather service to keep track of where you are, hoping, praying that you will come my way. And I will no longer give my heart to someone who has given my beloved snow to those who do not know how to appreciate it. sigh.I remain resigned, Respectfully, Your Sister Mary

New Listings!

2009-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys---here are a couple of things that I JUST listed---the Santy Claus is in my WSOAPP Market Street and I listed new mitties in Etsy---tis truly the most CRAZIEST time of the year!!!

My Girlie Whirls and Christmas Cheer!!

2009-12-07T07:22:00.000-08:00

Every year at this time me and my volleyball girls have a get together and exchange gifts and laughs at our husbands expense--this year was no exception to the rule---however we are missing several peeps due to hectic schedules, we had a great time---and on top of it all---we got to watch our beloved Vikings get their who-ha's handed to them by Arizona after the fun and frolic---dammit---good thing I was having more 'Christmas Spirit' or I would have been very upset about their miserable attempt at football---oh well! Here's to hoping you and yours have many great moments together this holiday season---remember--it's not about the gifts and presents---nope---it's always all about the perfect martini---noooo that's not right---it's about spending quality time with those that you love and sharing all the goodness that life has to offer---no matter how bad things really are in the real world around ya! Love you all and Merry Merry Christmas! Oh---that's me in the middle---Joe HATES that shirt--not very festive is why I think--yaaaaa right tee hee!

A Dickens Christmas

2009-11-15T17:31:00.000-08:00

Well well well---I bet you all thought I was kiddin when I said I actually had some stuff to list---well I do and I did and it is---listed---yea----however---and there is always a however with Renee these days---the pictures are horrible---so--I will be retaking them tomorrow in the good light of the day---we got back too late from the lake tonite for me to take very good pictures---well that and the fact that my beloved Big Bad Vikings played at noon---lets just say that got me a bit tangled up and off task----between that and the Bloody Mary I may have lost track of what it was that I was supposed to be doing!!! Thanks so much for stopping by---hope you enjoy all of the listings that are up through WSOAPP---what a wonderful time of the year!!!

My Listings on Ebay

WSOAPP A Dickens Christmas Launch on Ebay!

2009-11-14T06:34:00.000-08:00

The time has come for a HUGE group launch and this will be in GRAND style. November 15th is the day so set your calendars to take a stroll through the WSOAPP Groups sites to check out the fantastic give aways and listings from all of the wonderful artists associated with this group----AND what a great time to start or continue on with some holiday shopping---oh who can resist! This years theme is a Dickens Christmas and it promises to be a HOOT! I will be listing a couple of items that I am very proud of---'Spirit of Christmas Past' and a Red Wool Santa that I hand dyed the wool to a pretty Christmas RED and a Christmas Stocking that is really very cool and different---So do stop by and say HOWDY!!! Seasons Grettings to you and yours!

WSOAPP Market Square Offerin for Nov. 7th

2009-11-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

Market Street Link

What a beautiful Fall day in Minnesota it is today----November and it is supposed to get to 65 degrees---unreal! Joe is up north hunting with the fellas and won't be home until Tuesday--so we know what THAT means---shop til ya drop at all of the deer hunters widows craft shows---then of course wrap up the day with some crafting of my own----I can not even begin to tell you just how much I enjoy when he is gone for a time---love him like I do--it is nice to be on my own program---and sometimes I really believe he thinks I couldn't make it a day without him here directing traffic in and out of this house---ohhhhh yaaaaa---I am doin JUST fine---LOL

Well here is my little offerin for the month of November---Elijah Snowsnicker---and he is adorable----his nose is actually a real dried carrot that I got from my dear friend Sue of Oodlekadoodle Prims--here is her link---do check out her stuff--she has some great great things!

Oodlekadoodle on Ebay

LISTED on Etsy Now!!!!

2009-09-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

I just listed these guys last night---you will find these along with my soap that I have listed---Remember SALE on Soap til the end of October--read 2 posts down for more details!!!

Fresh Out of the Shoot---New on Ebay!!

2009-09-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

Moving right along---here are some of my new listings on EBay----I had a HUGE show last weekend north of us in Little Falls---to which I lost alot of my hair due to stress---and I have no finger nails left---YIKES---glad it is over--I know that sounds terrible (Mr. followed me on the bike and it rained almost all the way up there---who knew that watching the weather channel BEFORE we left was gonna be a great idea---dummy butts)---anyways---it went well--we did about the same amount as last year---which I was happy with---there are people that still enjoy shopping for things--which I was also happy about---I wish I was one of them---yup---LOL---with the exception of the rain on Friday---the weekend was perfect weather---dropped a very large board on my toe and wouldn't ya know it HAD to be the side with the NAIL sticking out of it---said a naughty word in front of a customer---which made her laugh and me cry----weekend in 30 seconds or less---voila!

I have Listed My Soap for Fall & Winter!!! SALE!!!!

2009-09-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

Howdy--- I have listed my Fall and Winter Soaps---the scents are wonderful and there are a bunch of new ones---be sure to check them out---on Etsy---link is on the right (I am kind of being lazy tonite)! Oh and for all of my wonderful customers that stop by and check my updates on here---I am offering a sale on my soaps that will run until the end of October----buy 5 bars for $25.00-----here's how ya do it----go into etsy and check the scents----email me and tell me which ones you would like---and I will invoice you----don't buy them off of there as I can't change the invoice that it sends you---and it saves me some time!!!! Moochoo Graciousiousious!!!

Went for a Weekend Scoot!

2009-08-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

Howdy all you blogger friends----here is a picture from my latest adventure---we went home this weekend--partly to see my family and partly to look in on our lake place that we are having some structural issues with currently----and to some that don't know where 'home' is for me---Northern Minnesota---Joe and me and the kidlets live in Minneapolis and my childhood 'home' where the rest of my family lives is 3.5 hours north of us. On a bike it seems like alot longer---and it is----I am hoping to be able to walk and talk in full sentences some time today!---that would be nice---as you can see by the background we did get caught in the rain---and that picture was taken on the fly by Joes brother and his wife who we met up with on the way up there---taken from and I-Phone while doin 65mph--skin flappin in the wind-----technology totally blows my mind! and however, there is not a whole lot of editing one can do to get that 'skin flappin' under control--LOL---You all take care and thanks for poppin in on me----Dad is doing alot better every day and the cabin---well--let's not even go there---it is falling off of the footings and is going to be quite the project to get it back up where it belongs---it is 7 years old and is a split log place on the lake---breaks my heart to see it in such distress----story of my life though for some odd reason recently---absolutely! Oh--and my hair---it is like one big DREADLOCK--there is not enough conditioner in this town to get that tangled mess taken care of!

My Early Works July 15th Offerin'

2009-07-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Shine on, Shine on Harvest MOON---I really do like that song for some odd reason! Anywhooo---thanks y'all for stoppin by my blog and checkin in on me---I appreciate that a whole BUNCH!!! Life is starting to simmer down a bit---Dad wound up back in the hospital with some heart issues about a week ago and that shot that theory in the butt for a couple of days----glad to report he is home as of yesterday and is doing better now--fingers crossed anyways----So without further ado----Say hey to Harvey---The Harvest Moon Box and he is listed in My Early Works Offerins'---Please stop by and check out all of the wonderful artists offerings for this month!

WSOAPP Market Square Offerin for July 7th

2009-07-06T18:10:00.000-07:00

This is Hilldy--the Sad Witch and the two below are Paper Mache' Fall Polka Dot boxes---YEA!!!

Oh MAN---yup yup yup----once again I have managed to be away WAY too long and I gots people wonderin'---what the HECK???---Anywhoo---I hope all is well with all of my people and that your summer is filled with family outtings and building great memories---it allll sounds so good on paper!!! LOL---So without further ADO--here's mee offerins'!

There is NO Stopping This Train!

2009-06-11T08:53:00.000-07:00

Well---the day has finally come for our little Ali girl---she graduated from Blaine High School last night---class of 2009. While I sat in the audiance and saw the 'sea' of blue come down from the Field House onto the seated area---frantically looking to find where she was to get a snap shot of time---I didn't want to do it---I promised myself I wasn't gonna do it---but I did---I got all choked up at the Pomp and Circumstance of it all--my BABY IS GRADUATING!!!--all 678 students dressed to the 9's standing in perfect rows---many of them I have come to know and love as the little brothers and sisters of peeps who graduated with my older ones or through the years that Ali has been involved in activities and community things----oh---and NO KLEENEX to be had in any pocket or in my purse---good one Renee! The Concert Choir sang 'Lullabye' and then the flood gates opened up----my shoulders were bouncing up and down and I could barely see through my tear swollen eyes----not only does this mark a milestone in her life---it truly marked her Dad and I-----it was like yesterday when I was washing her popsicle sticky face and saying our prayers together at night on the side of her little bed----the memories came rushing back of what fun it has been to have her around and watch her grow into the fine young woman that she is today-----I am very proud of her and her accomplishments---she is a shining star and will continue to light her surroundings with her infectious smile----She will be going to college in the Fall and is planning to become something in the Radiology field (yet to be determined). In the mean time----we are happy to have her here to empty the dishwasher, sweep the front entry and give Joe a 'run for his money' with her uncanny wit and humor (she is relentless with him)---FOREVER if need be!!! LOL I Love you Alexandra Jo and my wish for you is that you continue to Fly Butiful Baby----- FLY!!!! Mom

My 15th of the Month Early Work Offerin'

2009-05-19T04:57:00.000-07:00

Howdy people----yup---I am a bit behind---for any of you who have been looking for me---well---I am here---in spirit actually for now---Super Mo 'specially---I am here darlin---just not here!!!----I have recently gotten a new job and it is taking me some time to get used to a routine---there never seems to be enough time in a day usually for me----then I go and add this into the equation----will someone please tell me what I was thinkin'?---LOL

Moving right along---here is my Early Work Mercantile Offerin' for the 15th----Countess Elleana Evilmeir----and she is a HOOT!!! Please stop in and see all the fine offerings from this group for the month---

Here's the link!
Early Works Mercantile

WSOAPP Market Square Offerin' For May!

2009-05-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

Doooooooooo----she's a Paper Clay Doll and I had a blast makin her---she is about 16" tall and is listed on WSOAPP right this very darn second----Here's the link that will take ya there---be sure to check out everyones May work--it is FABULOUS--there are some new wonderful artists that just joined the ranks too---I am sure you will be impressed!

Click HERE and POOF you are THERE!

Oh---and you's guys---thanks for stopping by my blog----I sure do appreciate that!

Grand OPENING Early Work Mercantile May 1st!

2009-04-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to go THERE
YUP---it's here---the GRAND Opening of the Early Work Mercantile---the artists are all ready to show off their wares---so pop on in and be sure to check that out---you are gonna LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Here also is a sneek peeker at my offerings and I PROMISE you--you won't be disappointed!

A Peek at My HARTS Offerins for May 1st

2009-04-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

Chicken Chicken Chicken---who's got the chicken??? Well I do----and a rooster or two as well---here is a schaneeker at my crazy chickens!

The Humble Arts

Humble Arts Wing Ding Chicken Fling Giveaway!

2009-04-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

Oh BOY----it's eggsactly what you may expect---a giveaway to start out our May Offerins. Here's what cha gotta do to get entered----and if ya go to the Humble Arts site--you can take a peek at the offerins for the giveaway---and there is some good stuff inthere---whoooo---eeee!

1. Recieve 1 entry for advertising our Wing Ding Chicken Fling on your blog and linking it to our site. Leave me a comment to let me know that you have done that. Here is the link to grab a banner and the link. Click Here For The Link To Humble Arts

2. I have a hidden chicken feather somewhere's in my blog here---find it and email me to let me know where it is---THEN head on over to the other gals that are participating from HARTS and look for the feathers hidden in their blogs and do the same with that darn deal.

3. Look at the Humble Arts site on MAY 1st---there are some feathers hidden all over in there for more chances to win----oh the possibilities are ENDLESS---now get scramblin my friends~

The 'Right of Spring' ~~~~Prom

2009-04-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh the days of Spring---filled with clammer of school ending for the year and headin right into SUMMER---do I dare even say that out LOUD? My little Ali girl is growing up so dang fast---the last one to leave the nest---she is by all rights our Princess---even though I swear she gets treated more like the QUEEN around these parts! OH---and Happy Birthday to our Ryan---he is 22 years old today---seems like just yesterday I was carryin him around on my hip---

From Rags to Riches

2009-04-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

WHAT??? This ain't right----I am pretty sure that the Robins got a bail out before we did---dang them anyways!!! This ever-so-smart birdie decided that silver tinsel was the way to go---and I for one would have to agree---I threw our Christmas tree in the fire pit---and there was some tinsel still left on it here and there---and dang---if it didn't catch their eye---so cute!

My WSOAPP Market Offerins'

2009-04-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Well I suppose by now you' all have recognized that I am still behind on my bloggin---shame shame shame Renee Marie! (there I scolded myself---thank GOD I don't have a stick in mee hand too!) Here are my listings for Aprils WSOAPP Shoppe---I made these two mousies from muslin that I stained with walnut stain---I am lovin the way that they turned out and they are sitting inside of some cute items---naughty little mice---a Pink polka dotted coffee cup and saucer and a vintage sterling silver tea pot server----yup----so you may just need to head on over there and take a stroll down the WSOAPP Market Street to check out the wonderful offerins from this group!

My April HARTS Offerins'

2009-04-06T13:52:00.001-07:00

YUMMY lookin Bunnies---but they are NOT chocolate---wish they were though---LOL. These two gals were made from Paper Mache over cloth. I LOVE the tone of their dresses with that brown and light pink----they are free standing and even have a little tail too! So head on over to the Humble Arts and see all the wonderful offerins from this fantabulous group of artists!

What Cha Been Doin'???

2009-03-25T14:17:00.000-07:00

Oh I'll show ya's---I made some Bunny Rabbers---I made 4 of them---however the other two aren't going to be unveiled until my listings go up---but here are the first two and they will be listed on Ebay-----Big girl is made from Paper Mache and has a cotton eyelet dress and pantaloons with a TON of detail and she is holding a book that is the epitamy of cute--it is an antique garden book and dates 1853---it refers to flowers in their genus names and then it attaches poetry to those names---little bunny girl is called 'Blissful Blessings' and she is hand needle felted wool sheeps hair----she is holding a wool egg that is needle felted with pink polka dots----yup---it is the time of year that the Rabbits get a nod!

Listings Listings Listings!!!!

2009-03-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hey guys---I am just writing a quick note to let you know that I have some new listings on Ebay and Etsy---here are some bears that will be going on this Sunday on Ebay---the other items are on the side bars of my blog--- if you care to take a peek!---I am currently working on some chocolate and wool sachets and some bunnies and some raggedy annie angels---soon to be arriving this next week----I will be sending outr a new newsletter chuck full of all of my new items and also I am currently working on promotion that I am personally running through this blog and my newsletter---so do keep an eye out for that! If you would like to be included in my newsletter---please contact me to get on the mailing list!!! Thanks so much for stopping by!

These sweet bears were made from a gorgeous chocolate brown mink and they have leather paws----the larger one has a growler inside of her!

THE BIG HUGE EVENT IS HERE!!!!!

2009-03-11T06:57:00.001-07:00

The Big Huge event is finally here---and without further ado----here is the link to the Spring Fling that is going on in Ebay----22 Items---yup---22---all in one auction---you simply just have to check it out! Hurry though it is a 10 day auction!!
WSOAPP Spring Fling on Ebay

It's Market Street Time at WSOAPP

2009-03-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

Well I took a stroll over there this morning---and the stuff that is listed is absolutely GORGEOUS---you may want to head on over there---grab a cup of coffee first though---holy cow!!! Here is one of the bowls I have listed---oh---and ya know---I am looking at the pictures that I just put on here today---and I seem to be stuck in the Polka Dots scene---WHAT do you suppose is up with that---I dunno!!!!

This is my Big Girl Bowl---it is thick wood and it is a great piece!

Here's My Jars!!!

2009-03-07T08:14:00.001-08:00

Well---I finally got my stuff done for the shop and I am back to the blog scene---thought I would list some stuff today and catch up with some peeps and then maybe take a nap---much needed nap BTW!!!

These jars are fun to make----I will have them listed on Etsy this afternoon----as you can see by the pictures they are frosted---frosted with an acid cream called Armour Etch----first I got round stickers and placed them all over the jar---then I re-pressed them because they need to be ON THERE GOOD and no areas that aren't stuck or your 'circle' will be messed up. Follow the directions on the bottle--now when I tell ya it is acid cream---it is--and it eats the shiney surface of the glass---so it can be washed---after it is complete and it will always be frosted---forever--unlike a spray on frost---capeesh? Now--the cream is expensive and so I suggest that you bring your coupon with you to Michaels or JoAnnes---

The GORGEOUS tag that is on there was purchased from Mare at Oak Hollow Primitives---you really need to check out her stuff---she is an awesome artist and her work is comparable to none----here is her link to her Etsy Shop---be sure to check her out--you will NOT be disappointed!

Oak Hollow Primitives

Felted Wool Spring Easter Egg!!!! Ah-HA!

2009-02-26T07:17:00.000-08:00

Well---it seems I am stuck in wool---wool wool wool---ewe would be too if you lived in a winter mix of cold, snow and frozen bodies of water----I don't look for that situation---with the weather to change for me until like JUNE!---LOL---

Anywhooooo--Here is an Easter or Spring Egg that I made and that will be listed on Ebay in the coming days----it is big---not jet liner big---but big

2009-02-26T06:33:00.000-08:00

Oh gosh you guys----I have to tell ya---a couple of things---first I will be having the BEST time EVER with my new wool that I just ordered up from one of theeeeee nicest wool gals EVER----my new friend Lois of Old Scotties---she has the PRETTIEST selection of wool---- as you can see by the picture of what I ordered---you really need to check her out---the colors---M-M-M-M-M--are spectacular and the customer service is wonderful----if you are in the market for wool---her prices are very reasonable and she ships quick as a WINK----Here is her link to her site----please check her out! Old Scotties Primitives

Then I was gonna tell ya that I have a couple of posts coming up---one is gonna be a tutorial on some jars that I am working on---that are way way cool----and my HARTS for March and my WSOAPP for March as well---keep an eye out!

HARTS Offerins for March!

2009-02-24T17:21:00.000-08:00

Come one come all--it is getting to be that time once again---here are my offerins for the Humble Arts---I am so pleased to present them to you! The Bunny Bucket is chuck full of Spring Goodies--the Pin Keeps are felted wool---and the Prim Bunny is me getting back to mee roots---where it all began---please be sure to check out all of the wonderful listings that this group has to offer---I promise you won't be disappointed!

A Great New Website!

2009-02-18T06:58:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Doreen from Vermont Harvest Folk Art has a new website---you just gotta check it out!!! She is so very talented and her art is Spectacular!! She has a flare for the days gone by and captures it excuisitely in every piece she creates---I am always amazed at what she comes up with---stop by and check it out!

Doreen of Vermont Harvest Folk Art

YUCK!

2009-02-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

Yup---lots of sick people out there----I thought I would be able to DODGE some of them---but that did not happen and the inevitable ocurred. My apologies for being absent from my blog for a time---holy garbonzo beans was I ever sick----it appears out of no where---even though you and I BOTH know that you feel like you're gonna GET IT---and then you play this denial game for a couple of days---til it gets ya---right around the NECK and more so in the chest area---of course---take a bunch of different cold remedies---and anytime someone says to you---try this---oh this helped me---of course you do---and then that is where the trouble starts----worse than before---you see---I had a bit of trouble with drug interaction---you think it only happens to old people---nope---here to tell ya that I was messed up---with a capital 'M'---I am back now and feeling pretty darn sasssssssy today----paid my dues to the sickness Gods that be---and so I am hoping that I have a year or so before I get struck again---dang it! Thank you to my peeps that checked in on me---yikes---

You Be the JUDGE!!!!

2009-02-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

I often think men have NO CLUE when it comes to the balancing act that women do on a continuous basis----you all know what I am talking about---and this is in no way a 'bash' of Men---because I do have a few in my life--and honestly, love them like I do---they are still clueless-----However the facts are plainly starring me in the face DAILY---me---I roll with the day---something may mess with my plans---I go around it or I get my gear on and TACKLE it--head on---and sometimes without padding---yes---it's true----now yesterday I figured out that my tiny brain can only process so much information at a time--and when there is too much on my mind---disaster is looming-----yes--also true---so YESTERDAY I get UP and I am ready to face the day----I do what most people do in the mornings---scratch my head---pull up my jammy bottoms and somber down the seemingly LONG hallway to the coffee maker---I pour a cup---add my yummy creamer and somber back down the hallway---THEN I go in to the bathroom---that's where we keep our toothbrushes--weird heh?---true----and in the drawer--there are usually two tubes that are eerily similar on the OUTSIDE---but not so much on the INSIDE---one is Sensodyne toothpaste and the other is Monistat---say no more-----now the Sensodyne happened to take a walk downstairs because the basement dweller had ran out of her own toothpaste---leaving the other tube WIDE open for usage of the wrong 'area'----I am glad to report---that 1. I will no longer have to worry about ever getting a yeast infection in my mouth and My friend Karen said ---lovingly through her laughter--itchy teeth 2. If that were to have happened to my husband----well----back to the main theme here---he would have been clueless and he would have said---and I quote----'I really don't like that new toothpaste---please don't get that anymore---I like the minty kind----oh ABSOLUTELY he would-----ABSOLUTELY CLUELESS! Soooo did you notice how I diverted you to think this was about MEN??? Ya---who really is the Clueless one here---I mean REALLY!

It's WSOAPP Launch Time!!!!

2009-02-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

It's WSOAPP Time and the two tall Angels and the Angel Box are my offerings for February---the red one is a 'Keeper of Hearts' Angel and the bunny one is a 'Keeper of Eggs' Angel---and the Angel Box with the Pink Lid--the dollie with the red polka dot dress comes with her little green box is going to Ebay on Sunday----I was crazy OBSESSED with paper mache--as you probably already can see---I am not very happy with my pictures---for some reason I was having issues today with the sun ducking in and out of the clouds---I like natural light and so I take all of my pictures outdoors---which at times can be very challenging in Minnesota in the Winter--apparently I wasn't up to the challenge today---oh well!

It's a LAMP---outta an OLD Clarinet---

2009-02-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

There are these days that I make these types of things that I just shake my head and say---violaaaaa---or more like ta-daaaaaaa----sometimes they just turn out awesome---and sometimes I say---dang and scrap the whole darn deal---I am happy to say ta-daaaaaaa!!!!

Here's my lamp---made from an early 1900's Elkhart of Indiana Silver Plated Cavalier Clarinet---the silver is tarnished and gives the piece a real antique feel---the lamp shade was made from old sheet music that I decoupaged onto the shade and added some trimmins' to---it really is quite stunning! I hope you agree---it is listed on Ebay now---

It's HARTS time and here are my Offerin's for Feb.

2009-01-28T06:39:00.000-08:00

Howday-----and here is one of my Humble Arts February Offerins'---the Love Bunny is made from Cashmere wool and Angora that I felted and stitched and stuffed and and and---she was alot of fun to mess with---not quite sure I am into making bunnies---but this particular one captured my heart for some reason---she has glass eyes and EVERYTHING----I once knew a guy with a glass eye---different story---anywhoooo---then I made a heart door hanger and a heart make-do----Valentines day is right around the corner---I need to find a shoe box and get my tin foil in order to make my Valentines Greeting mailbox----'member when we did those in grade school???---it was the coolest thing EVER!!!---when Mom would let us use TIN FOIL for something other than wrapping a Rump Roast in----and that my dear friends only happened once a year----this coming from a mother who made us save the wrapping paper at Christmas---who does that kind of thing to their kids----My MOM---love her like I do---but I am a firm believer that is why I horde tin foil today---well that's what they tell me at my tin foil anonymous group anyways!---oh there are so many things---so many many things----

I bet ya Thought 'When is She Makin' Boxes?'

2009-01-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

Well I was thinkin that---come on Renee---let's get goin on that Mountain of Paper Mache' Boxes that you keep having to MOVE and get 'em DONE!!! So I did and here is as small portion of the boxes that are getting listed on Ebay----I hope you like Angels---cuz I have been 'stuck' in the little cherub scene---awwww HECK, who doesn't like ANGELS??? I know I sure am happy when I got my angels' attention---you know---the one that is in charge of watching over me---sometimes she's taking a NAP---but most of the time she is pulling on my sleeve--or my head to get it stuck from my---ohhhhh noooo---dare I say! PS. I also did some more Love You Mittens and they are just like the others--'cept without the heart for those who don't nessecarily like hearts stitched on the top of their mittens---these are more nominally priced and more simple country looking---they are getting listed on Etsy----with the others!

A Great Day in History!

2009-01-20T08:08:00.000-08:00

You will never hear about my political views on this blog---I grew up in a very political family---so in saying that---I am very moved by our Country right now and the FAITH and GREAT HOPE for Prosperity is set on the shoulders of our 44th President--that is being sworn in today---I am so very very proud to be an AMERICAN---God Bless this great Nation of ours and God Bless our new First Family!

Mitten Mitten--who's got the MITTEN?

2009-01-16T14:49:00.000-08:00

Howday-----Mittens and Soap---what's the correlation you say??? Wellll~~~~ if you live in an area that Standard Dress Code is Warm Heavy Clothing due to Cold Wicked Weather (yup---Minne-snowta) and your skin gets dried out from all of that and then some---well that there would be my answer! I just made 10 new pairs of my 'I Love You Mittens' in all colors and sizes AND I have been putting a deal together for the Love Scrub----ALL of which are getting listed on Etsy tomorrow---too late tonite---I'm going to go out and have some supper with my Joe----Hope to see ya's tomorrow!!!!

Little Sister is a BIG WIMP!!

2009-01-14T09:52:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would share an email I got from my sister Mary who lives in my hometown which is WAY North in Minnesota-----she is a fine writer and needs to be slapped around for not pursuing that career---seriously! She is a riot and you can JUST imagine what life is like when all 4 of us girls get together---OMG!!!! PS. One of my sisters lives in a sub of Chicago---and me in Minneapolis and another south of me in MN---Here's the email:

Greetings to you all,I am writing today, to issue a ration of crap to my "southern relatives"and to give you a dose of reality. This morning, I was watching theToday show while I got ready for work. I do so love Matt Lauer. Inthis morning's installment, the Weather Channel had sent famedmeteorologist Jim Cantori to the blustery streets of the Chicago. Hewinced as he suffered through the, and I quote, "brutal 14 degreeassault on Chicago". Umm, are you kidding me? Annnd, he added,tomorrow, it was anticipated that the temps may dip to 10 below zero!Again, are you kidding me? If it were that warm here, I would bewearing capri pants! If Jim Cantori and The Weather Channel wouldreally like to show his metal, send his butt here, or up toInternational Falls---I doubt his disposition would be so cheery.It is a balmy 25 begrees below zero. We are thankful, as this is a warmup from 32 below earlier this morning. I am not complaining, mind you.I am a Northerner, and I have learned to cope with winter's shortcomings. I am sending this letter to remind you all of a few things youmay have forgotten about, living in the moderate climates that you all do.

1. Kleenex is no longer a necessity. I find that going outsideremedies a runny nose instantaniously, as your nostrils freezetogether. Although, it does, however, make breathing a difficulty. Inthese economic times, the cost savings out-weigh the negative.

2. And finally, an answer to the burning question-Does leather freeze?Yes, yes it does. Makes me worry about the safety of cows, as the seatsin my Tahoe haven't been soft for a week.

3. I find that the rythmic banging of the "frozen flat spots" on mytires can be manipulated to go along with the beat of the music on theradio if you accelerate.

4. I rather enjoy dressing in layers. Although I look like theMichelin Man, in my head I am fantasizing about being an anstronaut forNASA.

5. Making those tasty Jello treats is now quick and easy, just hold thebowl out the back door to firm things up a bit.

6. My "pitching arm" is getting in great shape for summer activities.Although, truth be known, I am not so sure Cassidy (her Crazy Little Jack Russel) is liking beingTHROWN outside to do her business, but we all must do what we must do.And before I go, I will share one our favorite Seasonal/Regional DumbBlonde Jokes with you.

A blonde and her husband are listening to the radio one morning. Themeteorologist reports that they are expecting a snowstorm, with 9-12inches of accumulation. Yes, snow emergency procedures are in effect,please park your vehicle on the EVEN side of the street.Three days pass. Again, they are listening to radio, and themeteorologist reports that snow is expected for the region. Totalaccumulation of 10-13 inches of snow. Once again, snow emergencyprocedures are in effect, please park your vehicle on the ODD side ofthe street.The next morning, while listening to the radio, the meteorologistreports that more snow is expected. Snow emergency procedures are ineffect, please park you vehicle on ........the power goes out. Theblonde, in a panic, looks to her husband for support. "what are wesupposed to do," she cries, "what side of the street should I park thecar on tonight?" Her husband looks up and says, "I have an idea, whydon't you just leave it in the garage this time."And that is that!

Love you all lots! m.

They're that GOOD!!!!

2009-01-11T16:19:00.000-08:00

Okay----I just have to tell you guys that I made 4 new varieties of soap---in honor of the upcoming LOVE Holiday---OHHHH that St. Valentine would be berry berry proud of me----they are really quite yummy if I do say so myself ----and they are very new scents----to me anyways---Vanilla Vanilla (soft and True Vanilla, it is a Cybilla fragrance) Deep Rich Chocolate (Oh Mylanta, died and went to HEAVEN! Rich deep warm chocolate truffle scent) Chocolate Espresso (like a Sunday morning at your favorite coffee spot, breathe DEEP--- ABSOLUTELY!) Pink Peppermint (soft creamy dreamy pepperminty goodness)--CHECH 'EM OUT----I have them listed on Etsy---and in WSOAPP Market Square -----and if you were to buy some, mention that you read this post and I will offer them to you at a $1 off of each bar until Valentines Day-----but YOU have to mention the post and BEFORE you pay for your order---HAPPY VALENTINES DAY MY SWEET TARTS!!!! Always, Renee PS. Feel free to order them from here--simply email me with your request and I will invoice you--easy cheesy!

Ramblings of an IDIOT!

2009-01-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

This is a story that MUST be told----

About 3 days ago I lost one of my diamond earrings---it just fell out somewhere in my journies of the day and I was devasted to say the least---REMEMBER THIS PART!

Last night about 2am I got up for one of my nightly trips to the bathroom---bladder the size of a grape----in the DARK I sat down to do my duty and low and behold my rear got all WET---WHAT??? YEP WET!---huh---I flipped the light switch on and discovered that I had sat in someones tinkle from a previous trip to the said bathroom--- (not naming names but I was pretty sure it was JOE!)---was I soooooo ticked---YES--YES I WAS---I looked at the toilet closely to make sure that that was what it was and that the ceiling was caving in and leaking--nope--no such luck for Joe---it was tinkle----AND in the bottom of the toilet I noticed something very peculiar---MY EARRING--just laying there in the bottom of the TOILET ---I could see it through the ---tinkle---'OH this is GREAT!!! JUST GREAT'---I turned my mad but sweet self around and smartly MARCHED into the bedroom where I FLICKED on the light----remember it is 2am-----welll---I probably don't need to tell you the response I got regarding that---and I said---YOU---YOU need to come in here (the bathroom) for a sec---he hops outta bed thinking I saw a rabid dog or something---FIRST I showed him my wet backside---which he thought was funny--me---not so much---then I told him to reach his hand down through that MESS and grab my earring before I FLUSH the toilet---then his smile turned to an OH CRAP look---he did it and I soaked my earring in bleach-----

Now I need to tell you that this is PAYBACK for the time about a month ago that I was working in the garage and I have a coffee can that I put mineral spirits in to clean myself of the stain that I get all over my hands and arms---I wipe it on with a cloth that I have nearby and then wipe the stain off---welllll some jack-dot dot dot dumped that out and used MY MINERAL SPIRITS CAN as a tinkle can because he was too lazy to walk into the house OR better yet tinkle outside---I wiped tinkle on me---OMG-----I was MORTIFIED----and honestly, I got it all over myself---thank GOD I didn't wipe my face, because there are times that I have had to------paybacks---what poetic justice! And you guys wonder why I am the way that I am ---uh ha!

Take a STROLL!!!!

2009-01-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

I just got back from my stroll down WSOAPP'S Market Square with my dog and cup of coffee---I need to tell ya's----WELL worth checkin' into---there are so many cute cute things I am very proud of all of the artists and their sites---you guys are FAB!!!!!

WSOAPP Market Square Offerin's for Jan. 7th

2008-12-29T14:47:00.000-08:00

I can't even believe it---January 2009---holy CRAP where did that year go---I swear the older I get---the faster....the slower I get-----geeeez!

Here are two of my Sweet Treat for my Beloved Boxes----and as I promised, the female version of my Ice Skate Lamp---which the pictures aren't doing either very good justice--their little faces aren't showing up very good---and they are very sparkleeeee with glitter on their red hoods and silver sparkles on their faces for their eyebrows and cheeks---way CUTE!-- Look for these on WSOAPP Market Square January 7th---

Soon to be Arriving

2008-12-29T14:44:00.000-08:00

This is another Ebay attraction----it is my new line called Love Struck just a bit of winter mixed in with a Valentines theme---no matter what---I am excited to present her to you---

Catch Me if ya CAN!

2008-12-29T05:57:00.000-08:00

Where do I begin-----first off----Thank YOU---in a BIG WAY---to all of my lovelies that have been keeping tabs on me----and my communications slackerness----wellllll---I guess that would be putting it mildly----I had basically fell off the face of the 'electronic' world----I am back now as you can see and I am anxious---so very anxious---to catch up with all of you----it's gonna happen too -----betcha your saying G-R-E-A-T right now----careful what cha wish forrrrr! LOL I am looking forward to a turning of the PAGE as it were and heading my silly self right into 2009---I miss you all so very much as I was drowning in the sights and sounds of keeping the holidays SIMPLE for me and my family and it worked its magic on me-----I am doing fine and I have a new found sense of where I am AT in this world-----I cannot tell you how appreciative I am of the love bugs who kept me going regularly with your sweet notes---Doreen, Peanut, Brenda, Super Mo, Stace, Karen Susie, Carla and the many others from my two groups and beyond who have sent well wishes to me and my family----you guys make me smile----and it makes me strong----I love you guys!

ON THE FLIP SIDE: My Vike-Queens won yesterday by the skin of their noses---lucky for them or I'd be making a road trip to Winter Park to help them ALL clear their CRAP out of their lockers-----and it wouldn't have been pretty----a big sigh of relief could be heard across the Metro because of THAT---man oh MAN---teehee---cracked a molar yesterday in the excitement so I will be sending them a dental bill for that----nothing like taking one for the TEAM I dare say! Mr. Berrian---you da MAN--- and Mr. Adrian Pederson---we gots to get you to hang onto that ball better bud---Travarias---you ROCK---and Mr. Jared Allen we could of seen you get a bit more into the game---git the quarterback git the quarterback and earn your KEEP slacker!

Oh and coach----you may want to start wearing a cap---YIKES!

BTW---I am working this week---lots to do---so look for me in Humble Arts and Ebay---

My Christmas Swap Received!

2008-12-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Rafael of My Tiny Studio sent me this ADORABLE Gourde Fairy Ornie---she is absolutely divine with her little beads that were hand sewn through the gourde and her silk hair and handmade little cutie patootie purse---she will be a treasure of mine forever----her face is detailed and adoring---thank you so much Rafael I love her---AND as if that weren't enough---he sent along those peppermint peep stars that are so dang yummy---here's the darn dealio---the recipe is this: Hot chocolate----Peppermint schnaaps---peppermint peep to top it off----and voila---christmas in a cup! Yes sireeeeee!

WSOAPP Market Square Offerin for Dec. 7th

2008-12-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

Yea Oh Yea OH YEAAAAA-----It is Market Square time and here are just a couple of mee offerins----I am winding down the year with some small primitive items---that is where it all began and really is one of my most favorite things-----I hope you take the opportunity to check out all of the listings from these guys---tell ya what---you will NOT be disappointed----I took a stroll down the avenue last night----and I thought to myself----GORGEOUS---simply GORGEOUS!!!!!!

My Humble Arts December 1st Offerins'

2008-11-29T16:41:00.000-08:00

Sooooo--I bet cha you'all thought I took another one of them there trips into outer space---and you wouldn't be too far from thinkin it either---yiminee crickets----I have NO IDEA where the time has been slipping to---but anyways---thanks to all of you who keep checkin in on me----I am such a DORK!!!!! A good DORK--nevertheless---well DORK-----

Here is my December 1st Offering for the Humble Arts---what a fantastic group of gals I do say! Be sure to check out all of our listings, you will not be disappointed!

And peeps---thank you so much for your continued prayers for my family--it is most appreciated and you truly lift me up----I love you all....Renee

A Merry Christmas Present---to YOU!

2008-11-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

I am in the process of making these really cool windows---I decided that I would post the how to on these for you--my favorite bloggaroo's as a gift to you---I figured--this would be an AWESOME gift to make for someone for the holiday gift giving----here's how I did it-----

1. I gathered really cool white and off white painted pane windows

2. Clean WELL

3. I used clear contact paper and cut the letters after tracing them onto the contact paper from a stencil I have---if you do not have a stencil-----worry not---here's a famous trick---I have used my computer and print the letters out Large and then trace them through the contact paper with a sharp pen---then cut them out and place them onto your window----whatever words you like---JOY---Let it SNOW--blah blah blah the possibilities are endless---I also got some cheap snowflake stickers to place here and there on my window as well---that large snowflake is actually a rhinestone studded metal one that I got from Target in the ornaments dept. and I glued it on there with 'Fusion' a clear polyurethane non foaming glue---it's a miracle glue---like magic it is so STRONG----I also put a masking tape line to keep me from going astray in my letter placement when I stuck them on there---it takes a long time to get them all on there very straight and beaut-eeee-ful---so patience is totally a virtue!

4. Go to a well ventalated area to spray this really cool spray on there that FROSTS the glass---you can get it at most craft stores and it is a spray--the particular one that I used is from Valspar and it is called Frosting for Glass and was by the stained glass painting supplies----spray nice and evenly taking great caution in overspraying your amount so it does not drip onto your glass----I gave that window 3 SEPERATE coats letting it dry 1 hour between coats-----then let it dry WELL and CAREFULLY peel your stickers off and then you can glue your other embellishments on there and VIOLAAAA---BEAUTIOUS WINDOW CREATION---by you!!!

PS. You can also do the reverse of that option and have your letters be frosted and I also think it would be WAY cool to add some white lights on the backside of it---to hang on the wall---or mantle---OMGosh--the picture doesn't really do it justice--they are really very pretty and I have been making them for the shop---have fun with this!

MERRY CHRISTMAS MY LOVELIES!!!!

Meet Dusty & Nick the Chalkboards

2008-11-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

I am ALWAYS a Happy Camper when I can introduce a 'new concept' to ya's----I am loving the way that these turned out---they are paper clay heads on vintage antique bottles that I turned into chalkboards---yes---true---Nick is on an Amber Glass OLD Hylex Bottle and Dusty is on an Amber Glass Antique Clorox bottle---both were primed and then chalkboarded----they have a piece of wire that holds the chalk and they can be erased over and over and over again with new sayings on the front----I am diggin' that about them most I think--both are getting listed on the Bay tonite---BTW---cold as ALL GET OUT here lately---totally not ready for any of that shinanigans----love the snow---it's that bitter cold that RIPS right through ya that I am not so sure that I am liking at all----nope!!!

HO ~ HO ~ HO ~

2008-11-05T09:39:00.000-08:00

'Member that clay head of a SANTA that I made way back when??? Well here he is all painted up and ready to roll---he is getting listed on Ebay tonite----I am especially fond of him because of the Vintage Antique Annie Miniature Doll that he is hanging on to---you can't really see her right now in this picture, but she is darling--more pictures are needin to be taken---the sun isn't right in the picture taking area right now-- I am very happy to present him to you today!

Don't Give Up On Me Yet----LOL

2008-11-03T07:06:00.000-08:00

For my customers that are looking for my dollies--DON'T GIVE UP ON MEEEEEE------I am in FULL swing and will be listing several this week-----I am in the process of getting ready for two rather large shows and they are back to back----which is always a good thing for me---I seem to do better under stress--sure looks good on paper--my hair falls out and the ones that are sticking around turn a lovely shade of gray---people driving badly puts me right over the top and cashiers at the stores who are visiting with people instead of checking them out make my eyes do this rolling thing and my lips get real pursed---that can not be good for wrinkles----no good at all----

Funny story----I did color my hair the other day----yes and it is wonderful not seeing those little wires popping up all over the top of my bean---anywhoooooo---RIGHT after I did it---obviously I rinsed it and dried it and then decided to go up to the gym----HUGE idea----apparently I did not rinse it good enough because whilest I was on the Elyptical--Eucalyptus I call it---machine---I sweated the color right down my face---people were walking by me and starring and in my head---- I am thinkin'---WHAT? WHAT IN THE HECK IS YOUR DEALIO???? I had this 'look' about me too----of that I am sure----quite animated at times if I do say so----it was GREAT----I smartly walked my sweet self into the locker room---with ATTITUDE and looked in the mirror---for the LOVE of GOD----I am such a DORK!

Here is one of the cabinets that I just got done---my sister Mootsie bought the windows for me for my birthday---I got 6 of them---way way kewl!