Butternut Creek Folk Art

Hog Has Left the Building

2012-01-24T14:06:00.001-05:00

Hog of Faern-Laega Art Dolls

Hog indeed has left the building. He got his motor running, and looking for adventure......in Los Angeles. I think he may take up writing .
(Merry Christmas!)

Mia's Bridge

2012-01-02T15:12:00.004-05:00

Mia 1993-2012
above picture in her prime

Mia, let us know this morning that she was too tired and too weak to go on another day. 19 years, 8 months and several days were enough for our dear Mia, a Siamese kitty. The last four years were a struggle and with many close calls and rebounds. A year ago I became uncomfortable with all the testing and the medications and IVs. Tim and I decided to let Mia tell us what she wanted. I would have gone with the meds and all again....but why?

Until late last night she was still jumping up on things...knocking over things....wanting to be held.

Then there was the change.... almost instantly .

Being only 3 pounds I brought her into our bedroom this morning and laid her on my chest. She looked up at me and with a silent meow she told me...and I knew.

Open House Drawing Winner Is Announced

2011-12-12T13:11:00.002-05:00

And the winner of this snowman is:
S. Horton!

Christmas at Farley's Country Store

2011-12-07T12:41:00.000-05:00

Christmas at Farley's
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
at Farley's Country Store
Our open House is
10 December 2011
10 AM- 4PM
Hope to see you!
Dolls...Goat Milk Fudge..Maple Products

Barn Stars....

food samplings and refreshments!!!!

2011-11-28T16:23:00.003-05:00

Now, that I have been sewing like a mad, crazy,woman for the past 6 weeks. I look around at my work and I see that there are NO SANTA'S!!!

Tim and I are hosting the annual holiday open house at Farley's Country Store December 10th....do you think anyone will notice?
Sure I have a multitude of snowmen, elves and ornies ...WHAT NO SANTA's!!!
Truth is, I couldn't think of a Santa I wanted to make. Nor could I find a Santa pattern that I wanted to make.
I am feeling a bit guilty at this posting.....maybe I should make at least one Santa just because I do believe in him!

Update:::: Guilt truly overcame me! I was up til 1AM last night finding the one and only Santa pattern for 2011.
"Hidden In the Attic's" "Santa Holding Deer" is my pick.

Things are Flying at Faern-laega

2011-10-18T16:35:00.001-04:00

ODETTE

It's fall and Odette is flying the skies of Faern-Laega.

She would make a great tree topper for your All Hallows Eve Tree.

Design from the lovely mind of Susan Barmore.

Hello My Pretties!

2011-10-06T19:30:00.001-04:00

LUNA

Yeesh! It's been 2 months since I posted last. Shame on me. But I have not been idle. I helped my Aunt and Uncle dispose of the remaining contents of my Grandma's house. This property has been in the family since the Revolutionary War...the land was a grant from the Western Reserve of Connecticut,issued to war veterans to help with the growing east coast population expand westward. It's a long, long story .. I was the recipient of many, many lovely items.
There is one story that I have to tell at a later date about a trunk Circa 1828.
The above wee lass is Luna, a design from the lovely mind of Jenn West. I made 4 Luna sisters and the have all found homes throughout the country. I have just a few more items for the fall and Halloween to complete and then it has to be only Christmas on my mind.
Salt Box primitive house have found their way in to the list of offering in the store. Nancy DeRosa, made one and I knew I had to give it a try. Love them.
My dear husband Tim and I have also be cutting out silhouettes of 6ft high witches, scary cats, turkeys, moons and star, roosters and ponies to offer our patrons.
It will be a busy upcoming weekend, Apple Butter Festival, Covered Bridge Festival and more...the leaves on the trees will be peaking next weekend and the glorious color is splendid right now! This is truly the best time of the year!
Oh! I am on Face Book and I feel quite guilty for neglecting my various blogs. I find that blogs are so much more personal and you can really get to know about a person through this medium. But each have their charming features!

ZenTangle

2011-08-12T11:53:00.000-04:00

I went to ZenTangle workshop last weekend. I am not what you would describe as a Zen person, however, this art form does give your brain a chance to declutter....really it does in the first 10 minutes! Yes, you say to yourself..."this is like doodling that I did on my 7th grade notebooks". (you don't want to mention the word "doodle" to an ZenTangle instructor). What ever your art form is I think you can apply ZenTangle to it. The above work is not mine I just put it up as an example. Mine would not photograph well. www.zentangle.com give it a try...you can not screw it up.

p.s. I am having a blast on facebook.

I am so ready for Fall

2011-08-08T15:52:00.000-04:00

Pumpkin Jack

Yes I am!!! I went into summer with somewhat of a plan to get a fare amount of product completed by September 1. It is never enough. I feel good about what I have done so far. This scary, kinda cute, Pumpkin Jack was a pleasure to make. Lucy Rox has done it again. The pattern is excellently written. The result is a unique fall friend. Jack is not up for adoption yet. He reminds me of the lighter side to life.

I am now on facebook. ....not exactly thrilled with the idea. But I am there....why remains to be revealed to me! I am a blogger fan! Makes more sense to me!

Remember to join all of the ladies of Prim Chat tonight 8pm EST. See (hear) you there.

Meet Plain Jane

2011-07-28T12:48:00.004-04:00

PLAIN JANE

Jane is that one little girl we all had in our elementary school that was a devilish lass. The boys loved to pull her pigtails.

This pattern was designed by Lucy from Lucy Lazy Dayz Primitives. Jane is about 48 inches in height. She is prim perfect. I loved making this doll....just an excellent true prim pattern...I will be making several more of Lucy's designs in the coming months. Please visit her at the link above.

Jane will be the pre-holiday special order item for August at Farley's Country Store.

What's on the Worktable?

2011-07-25T16:01:00.003-04:00

Circus Ella

Vintage Circus Ella

Time has gotten away from me again. I intended to post these two lovely ladies last week. They have both found loving new homes . I had the fore site to make multiples...so now I must get the others dressed....so they to can find someone to love them forever, and ever. G.O.P. Ella (as seen below) is out on the campaign trail.....you go girl!

The Ellas were created from a pattern by Brenda of The Vintage Polka Dot. Brenda has really, really great patterns...visit Brenda's site by following the link.

What's on the worktable: Witches, witches, and more witches, pumpkins, Veggies, Big Prairie Doll by Lucy Rox, crows, Fraktur Birds, a little clown I dreamed up, a great pumpkin with vines from Lucy Rox, witches and mummy's on bobbins....I can't wait my favorite time of the year is just around the corner!!!!

Happy 8th of July!

2011-07-08T20:15:00.002-04:00

G.O.P. Ella
(Grand Olde Pachyderm)

Just got back from our vacation and was it a jam packed one. On our way home from Minnesota we stopped in Tomah, WI and visited with Lucy from Lucy's Lazy Dayz Primitives. I met Lucy for the first time 2 years ago. On Thursday we picked up where we left off two years ago. Lucy's space at "The Cranberry Country Mall" is just prim perfect! Lucy's work is displayed so you can see everything, and each piece stands out and speaks for itself. Her patterns are also for sale and I have 2 new ones to work on! It is always inspiring to talk to Lucy.... and see Lucy's masterpieces. Make sure you join Lucy, me and all the Prim Chat Ladies for Monday's show .... p.s. Lucy rocks!
G.O.P. Ella is one of several Elephants I completed just before vacation. This is a pattern by Brenda Sanker of The Vintage Polka Dot. Brenda's patterns are beautiful, thoughtful and extremely comprehensive....try one soon.
Hope you had a great Independence Day and I will be back with more pictures of my completed dolls and let you know what is on my work table. Till next time......

Mama Bear and Baby Bear

2011-06-22T18:16:00.000-04:00

BABY BEAR

Joining Papa Bear is Mama and Baby Bear. What a great project....the Three Bears! Based on a pattern by Vicky from Olde Homestead Barn .

MAMA BEAR

Papa Bear

2011-06-18T13:54:00.003-04:00

Papa Bear

It's been awhile since have have posted to this blog....my hands have not been idle. Farley's Country Store is keeping both Tim and I on our toes. Sales have been good and we continue to thank the Lord for blessing us with patrons. I have several pics of new pieces to post in the next several days ('bout time I know...where has the time gone this year??)
Papa Bear is my version of a pattern by Vicky from Olde Homestead Barn. This pattern from Olde Homestead Barn is truly rewarding. The possibilities are endless. It is a big, big piece!

Hog Of Faern-Laega Art Dolls

2011-04-06T13:12:00.001-04:00

Hog
Copyrighted 2011

Here is my newest DOD. To see more pictures of the forehead and back view of Hog (there is somthing special on the back of his skull). go to http://www.faern-laega.blogspot.com/.

Grace at Faern-Laega Art Dolls

2011-04-04T19:14:00.001-04:00

For a little more about Grace follow this link:
www.faern-laega.blogspot.com

Curves

2011-03-24T15:36:00.003-04:00

We never know what our days will be comprised of. We all hope for the good ....but still you never know when there will be a curve thrown in. This morning was one of those curvy days. The store and our "nest" is located at a well traveled intersection. Two cars met in an unfortunate moment and both of the vehicles ended up hitting two parts of our building. Nothing to major for us....but instances like this always bring to mind a lot of "what ifs". What if Tim and Lily came in from outside 2 mins later ....they would have been hit. What if???? Anyway, most importantly I hope the one man is OK. He did not respond to Tim's calls to him. The other driver is young and I am sure will be hurting in the next few days. I guess what I want to say is remember to slow down, be aware of your surroundings.

What's on the work table!

Elephants (waiting for the material to come)

Day of the Dead Biker--as cute as a biker can get!

Goth Baby---My design!

Mini Lady Dragonfly---Just like the one I made at the Holidays!

Stay tuned!

P.S Date night on Saturday: The Moon Dog Coronation Ball ( Rock On)

Matchbook Comes Back Home

2011-03-13T20:48:00.002-04:00

Matchbook from 1939 or 1940

EBay is such a cool thing! Last week I found this listing and I knew I had to buy it....it needed to come back home. I must admit I was stumped for 10 seconds on who J M Farley was who had a store in Chardon. Then I knew JULIA M. FARLEY..... my grandmother. Welcome back little matchbook!

J. M. Farley @1900

Sheep, Rabbits, and Mice

2011-03-02T14:17:00.002-05:00

Extreme Primitive Sheep Pull Toy

Whigleigh Doodle Dandy, Whighleigh's Carrots, Lord Whighleigh

I just realized that I have not posted any of my "doings" since before Christmas. I am battling the flu today. ...so I will not be going into details about the patterns I used. I must say though, the "Whighleighs" have stolen my heart.

Patriotic Picnic Parade

What'da Think Mr. Groundhog

2011-02-01T19:29:00.005-05:00

I sincerely hope all of you are safe and secure in your "nests" tonight. We are getting ready for 6 to 8 hours of hard freezing rain. I would take the 2 feet of snow without question...that's happening about 100 northeast of Chardon. I hope we don't loose power....we are as ready as we can be...the fish will have the battery power back up heater and air tank..... Mia, Max, Ming and Lily will sleep through it all...it's that Tim and Carol I'm not so sure about. LOL!

It's been a month since I posted and we had some fun in January.  I had mentioned last blog we were going to a Medieval Dinner....well that was fun!!!  Tim and I won best dressed couple by the King and Queen. We won a nights stay at the Riders Inn (where the dinner was) and a bottle of mead "Honey Wine". I think we look really dorky in this picture. Tim looks like he swallowed a frog and I looked totally p.o'ed that he swallowed the darn frog. Good time had by all.
                              ***************
    One of my favorite museums in Cleveland is the Western Reserve Historical Society. On January 22 "Somewhere in Time Party" took place to benefit the museum. When I received a letter asking for a donation to the !970's theme dinner auction. I knew I had to make a day of the dead doll....(slap me on the head I didn't take a picture of him).   Anyway, he is like the "Peace" doll over at Faern-Laega Art Dolls . I was assured on Monday that he found  a very good new home.
I have started Dixie Redmond's Izannah Walker doll workshop. I have never clay sculpted before and it is a real challenge.  I will be learning patience....I have none by the way.
                                ****************
I would just like to take a second and remind everyone to keep batteries in your smoke detectors....really the detector will only do their job and save our lives if the batteries are in the detector.   One early morning 3 weeks ago..our neighbor's house caught on fire and everyone made it out EXCEPT for the father...his 15 year old stepson tried to go back in for his step-dad who was in the basement....the fire was too far along.  Check your batteries right now...please!!!   And watch those candles and space heaters... we have an Edenpure and love it!
The wind is starting to pick up and the roof is creaking...so I better sign off.   Take care and be safe everyone!
Until next time!

Twelfth Night Coming Up

2011-01-02T20:38:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year to you! We made it through another year!!! Congrats to us all. Now, it being January 1, we can do the whole thing over again and

perfect the art of living.

I had a great year... I learned a lot ... pushing myself past the comfort level that I am accustomed too...emerging victoriously... and can't wait for the next project which is just an email away.

My dear husband gave me an early birthday present tonight....

Dixie Redmond's Izannah Walker Workshop. I have wanted to do the workshop, but it wasn't until now that I had the time to commit to it. (I may be sweating bullets on this one).

My cousin Carane, gave Tim and I the best Christmas gift. The three of us will be going to Rider's Inn for The Twelfth Night Dinner. We will be going to the costume shoppe next week. What should I be?

Tim wants to be a Knight's Templar.

I will have to make a medieval dress at some point. For the last year or so, I have been researching medieval dinners....I hope to host a dinner in the next year or two. (it's on my bucket list)

All my best to you in the new year!

Lady Dragonfly...Again

2010-12-15T19:01:00.001-05:00

I had a brain freeze the other day and deleted my post about my magical bug. I had a couple requests for a full picture of Lady Dragonfly. She is a big piece and is awkward to photograph with my very limited expertise.
Tim and I hosted an in store "open house" this past Saturday and it was very successful....we thank everyone who came...It was a great! Lady Dragonfly greeted everyone as they walked in the door. She will be living in Chicago.

Aye Karumba!

2010-12-08T10:36:00.001-05:00

Taken from doorway of the store 3 days ago.

We are into day 3 of the Lake Erie Snow effect storm. We have 30 inches of snow...much higher drifts.....
and NO SNOW PLOW GUY ....poor Robert he was plowing my cousins driveway yesterday and someone swerved to miss him and an other man in a pic up T-Boned Robert.
Well snowplowing in emergency situation comes at a premium in these parts. One plow for ER plow $150.00 . Gheez I am in the wrong biz.
I wouldn't worry about the plowing but I have the open house this Saturday and I am really..really....nervous. Tim says it will be OK.   I think we should buy a used pick up and a plow. I don't want to be stuck like this.
I have made a few more Christmas themed items and I've done lots of baking.
I should have started this post  by thanking all of you for your thoughtful comments and e-mails about my cat SU who passed away Saturday. Her twin sister, Mia, is very lonely and calls for SU at certain times of the day....sad.
Well folks think good thoughts for me that the snow stops and I can get a reasonable plow or that Robert is back in business by Friday.
Keep Warm!!!

Su

2010-12-04T10:35:00.001-05:00

Su April 1992- Dec.4,2010

Tim and I had to make the painful decision 2 hours ago to let our Suie cross the " rainbow bridge." She had been ill the last 3 weeks and just couldn't get over the hump. Tim gave her subcutaneous water IV's and Thyroid meds. Su was eating again..... I thought we were making progress. She was helping me paint some Santa ornaments yesterday afternoon. I held her tightly last night something she would never, ever let me do ......I am glad she finally allowed me to hug her. I had no idea that we would find her in the basement...still with us but ....she was just too weak.
Su was humanely put to rest with her head in my hand and Tim by our side.
It was a good run Su.

A Full Plate

2010-11-27T13:44:00.004-05:00

OUR THANKSGIVING DINNER 2010
A Flawless Meal

I hope all of you had a fantabulous day!

The Menu is posted on
my food blog http://www.twodeadbananas.blogspot.com/

A Halloween Poem and My New Day of The Dead Dolls

2010-10-29T12:00:00.003-04:00

Shadow's of the night..

Falling silently

Echo of the past....

Calling you to me.

Haunting memory...

Veiled in misty glow

Phantom melody....

Playing soft and low.

In this world that we know now

Life is here, then gone.

But some where in the after glow

Love lives on and on.

Dreams of long ago...

Meet in rendezvous.

Shadows of the night...

Calling me to you.

Happy Halloween!

I Hate That When It Happens!

2010-10-22T13:10:00.001-04:00

I have been working on bride and groom Day of the Dead Dolls. With my fingers crossed, I will have them completed for November 2. ...just in time for Day of the Dead.

The "couple" are very detailed and so far they are some of my best work.  I would love to show you a picture...only when they are complete.

Monday night the tux was nearly done....just a good pressing was needed.    My iron was way too hot....and it melted....."OH @$#&".
All of the clothing for my DOTD dolls are made without patterns.
I had enough fabric, so I started a replacement jacket. Nothing went right...too big here..too small there....in the trash can.

The nearest JoAnne's is 18 miles away.   I found the suiting material. and several other fabrics perfect for future Day of the Deads. Moonlight Madness at JoAnn is this Saturday and Sunday and I am using my 50% off to buy a mini quilters iron , just so I can get in all the tiny little prim spaces.   I think I need to get busy as Christmas is 60 some days away! OH! OH ! OH!

Catching Up!

2010-10-06T18:52:00.002-04:00

Wow! Someone please tell me where the last 2 months went. I haven't blogged for two months.....unbelievable. Anyway.. this picture is me peddling my creativity along side a dusty road ....just kidding.... interesting picture, though. I love the horse...dolls look interesting, too! I should be sewing as I have dolls that have to be done this weekend. I am working on bride and groom Day of the Deads and another Hot Air Balloon with Uncle Sam and Lady Libby. The bride and groom's "sugar" skulls are nearly done. I know exactly how I want the bridal dress....but not sure how to construct it .....big HMM!!!

I would like to take this opportunity (it is long overdue) to THANK ALL OF YOU for following this blog as well as all my other blogs. I truly feel honored when I see another follower pop up. I don't have contests or give-aways...I just write and if anyone really likes what I blog ...I know that you are interested in my little world...plain and simple. I would like to THANK ALL MY STORE CLIENTS for your continual support and patronage. Even in these difficult economic times....you have been there at the store door...It is my sincere pleasure to offer my dolls and primitives to you! *****************************************

And here is a picture from 1925 of my "nest "and store. This is where I grew up and and live today with my husband Tim. I will add a current picture this weekend. It has been so rainy and Saturday I am finishing up the fall decorations I have made for the front of the store......I love them....cats and witches pumpkin and mums.....my favorite time of the year is finally here!!!!

New Art Dolls at Faern-Laega Art Dolls

2010-08-21T19:50:00.004-04:00

A new couple just arrived at FAERN-LAEGA Art Dolls. The town has never seen anyone like them! They look friendly enough...You decide.

Click on link to see the whole story .

http://www.faern-laega.blogspot.com

Stepping Out of the Pumpkin Patch.....

2010-08-10T11:25:00.001-04:00

"Sew little fingers look what you have made"

See I have been busy! I have new "friends" and old "friends" returning to Butternut Creek.

JOY RIDE

This first wee lass is on her way to FAERN-LAEGA Art Dolls. Her twin sister rode into the home and hearts of a collector. This is a Frowning Francis Design. What a rewarding piece that is 12 inches high and wide. There is ton of detail...small twists and turns. I would not recommend this to a beginner.

BETTZ TAKES A REST

Bettz is back again this fall by popular demand. She is a wonderful and enchanting piece. You need a large space for this piece and I think you could leave it out all year and not tire of her. She is a Grabby Gabby design. A very rewarding piece to create.

PUMPKIN AND CROW CENTERPIECE

Impressive centerpiece..perfect for all of the fall festivities. The Crow rests easily in the "Y" of a branch. Remove him for a more formal look. A big statement!

HEDRA THE FIELD WITCH

Hedra is back again this year is a small doll and loves to hide in the pumpkins. She is a Frowning Francis design and is delightful.

SALEM...... THE SCARECROW

Salem isn't scary at all. The crows love him.. This was a fun make-do designed by Crabby Gabby.

SALEM is now living at the same home as JOY RIDE.

What's on the worktable: Day of the Dead dolls

Carol ....What's with All The Houses!

2010-08-05T12:16:00.001-04:00

"FARLEY MEADOW"

Lebanon, NJ
circa 1791

I found this property last night doing some family research . I am doing further work to track down what ancestor built and lived at this site. I wanted to share it with you. I see a primitive blank canvas...do you?

This property is for sale. Tim said, "Just a few more dolls, Pussycat...a few more dolls".

P.S. You should see the Halloween piece I'm working on!

A Sad Little House

2010-08-04T16:07:00.001-04:00

Would this make a great prim cottage ? This little house has been in my thoughts since May. I was bitten by the genealogy bug to find the property that my great-great grandparents owned. I have the maps with the land owners...however things change over the years....new roads and new developments. I have hope that "our" farmhouse dating from at least 1838 is still in existence. Fortunately, Music Street still has many, many fantastic New England style old homes from the 1820's. Thankfully, they are now well kept horse farms. .......but this little house pictured ..not so lucky...it is circa 1832, or 178 years of age. If only I had a wallet filled with a lot of dead presidents wrapped with a bungee cord. I hope this Prim Cottage gets some love ....soon!

The Artist :William Bezek

2010-08-02T21:04:00.000-04:00

I found this amazing artist's blog the other day . He is living in Cleveland Ohio. . If you are into Halloween and Day of the Dead Dolls you have to take a look. Make sure you click on the first album on his blogs side bar and see his work.....5WOWS! http://www.williambezek.blogspot.com

Two New Girls in Town!

2010-07-17T12:56:00.003-04:00

Here is a sneak peek at the two new girls that just moved to FAERN-LAEGA . For full description and more pix go to my Art Doll Site
http://www.faern-laega.blogspot.com/

Some of My Kids with Paws

2010-07-16T22:54:00.001-04:00

Ming decided he would take care of the customers at the store counter today.

I was cleaning and rearranging dolls and things for a "JULY YULE TREE".Ming sees a camera and he will pose instantly.

He truly is my beautiful, priceless Ming.

************************

This is "Max"imilian. He is just a crazy love bug. He is drunk with cat nip in this picture.

He is a beautiful Silver Bengal with a pelt coat that resembles tarnished silver.

Max is the house jester.

******************************************

Here is One of the Grand Dames Mia Sophia!

This is the gal that almost didn't make last weekend. Mia is doing so much

better. Her identical twin sister Su takes the worst pictures just like me! So I will spare you.

Just BEEcause!

2010-07-14T13:25:00.006-04:00

I hope not to offend anyone by the following if I do I am sorry

Last night, as a swarm of big "B" words spewed from my mouth, "Bitch, Bastard"; I paused and gave the benefit of my doubt to the perpetrator who gave me multiple computer viruses. "Poor souls with low self esteem....only way to get noticed! What a shame that such computer savvy talents are wasted on the unsuspected. I know within a few sites of where these "B" or "B" dwell in blogland...and that gives me some sad satisfaction. "B's" and "B's" please make yourselves useful as I know you can be. Get some help if you're angry....just get over what ever it is and be a blessing in disguise.

....and be kind to one another, full of pity having forgiveness for one another, even as God in Christ had forgiveness for you ...(and me)

Pale Madame

2010-07-12T20:09:00.001-04:00

"Why doth your highness look so pale and wan"?

-Titus Andronicus -Shakespeare

This is my latest Art Doll project.
The shoulder/upper arms are not jointed.

"Hmm, you say?

It is vital to the design for them to be stationary.

I finally have a vision for Madame.

Nothing short of beautiful!

There's A Bear at the Door.... Party Crasher!

2010-07-11T20:57:00.003-04:00

The bear will be another story! I can't find the picture! Sorry

Well the drive was long, the food was made, the party is over it's time to call it a day! That was how last week was for Lily, Tim and I. We made the trip to Northern Minnesota to co- host along with Terese and Lawrence, my in- laws 50th anniversary. Tim and I were in charge of the food....I cooked for a small army. I had the best time and enjoyed every second of the prep and presentation of the food .....great times had by all.

Lily is an excellent traveller...perfect the entire 970 miles one way all in a day!

We pulled in our driveway Friday AM at 3. All kids- with- paws were accounted for.... but.....no Ming....finally at 4:30 AM....he showed us his tail and only his tail slithering in the basement he was angry and let us know.

Mia Sophia one of our Siamese twins was very ill....little response and very thin....was she going to make it? We took Mia to the vet on Friday and she is showing signs of dehydration etc...Mia and Su are 18 years old and things are bound to go wrong. We are giving her antibiotic, and water I.V. treatments. As of tonight she is getting her spunk back!

I hear there was 100 degree temps most of the time we were gone. Not good for man or beast.

I have not posted much on my blogs and I have done NO sewing since May....I needed time to take stock in what I would like to accomplish in the next year. I think it will be very busy. I am tossing around an idea for next July a huge themed open house maybe....all I know is I want it to be the best and way over the top....I will keep you posted as everything proceeds.....thinking big!!!

Do you remember "Sam and Libby at the State Fair "(hot air balloon)? Yesterday they found a forever home! Thank you Ms.S.Y. and yes I did cry when the words.."I would like to buy ..." were uttered. I keep promising myself ..."I will not cry....I will not cry."... but I do.

I have to get my derriere moving and do tons of sewing.....vacation is over! I do hope everyone one of you are having a great big summer...working some but enjoying yourselves even more! It's time to get busy because the great Pumpkin and Santa Claus will be here before you know it.....then cupid and the bunny.....life goes on....Keep Creating!

(Hope you like the music...Bob Grones sang this at our wedding!)

I Will Be A Beautiful Chair!

2010-06-15T19:44:00.003-04:00

It's trash to treasure night at http://www.primchat.com/ I must admit I have been distracted for the past 3 weeks getting ready for my in laws 50th anni. I will be cooking for 100 friends and relatives 850 miles from home.

The CARjunkOL collection is bulging and my dear husband has ordered me to finish at least a few " priceless" pieces of dare I say with a cringe....JUNK!

Well this chair is the specimen I chose. I have a real problem painting wood. I am tempted on this piece. Should I just go nuts and paint it like a crazy quilt... then add faux leopard print cushion....I think I will go more subtle with black aged it up and add a handpainted something to the back panel.

Time will tell... don't hold your breathe girls!

We found this1940-50's toy chest in a curbside pile. ... could not resist the graphic. There was no lid and bottom. We used nice pine, a few different stains, and a lite coat of poly. It blends well together and still looks vintage. This is so strong it will last another 100 years.

My First Time......A Honeymoon Memory

2010-06-12T19:20:00.002-04:00

Our eighth anniversary is fast approaching, and I have several dozen stories I could tell.   "My first time" is very pertinent to the art that most of us finds ourselves immersed in; I just did not realize it at the time.
We started our honeymoon in Duluth. We would travel the Lake Superior Coastline stopping at several Bed and Breakfasts along the way  headed to our destination of Mackinaw Island.
Our car was packed to the radiator with gifts..... The front of the car was aimed for outer space..... the trunk toward hell. I had to stop at this rock shop and I found a fifty pound amethyst rock that "I just have to have it Tim"! ( I knew he would never say no to his new bride).
Next door to the rock shop was a small old factory building that is now an arts and craft gift shop.
Walking into this high ceilinged room, I never to this day have ever seen so many of the signs that are popular to hang in your house...you know....All BECAUSE TWO PEOPLE FELL IN LOVE.   Floor to ceiling every wall. Nuggets to live by. Then I saw it....I was shocked!!!!! What in the world are they selling a doll like that for....I don't know what that is but it was wrong on so many levels.....!! I turned to find Tim and sure as heck there is another one!!! The two ladies at the counter were jovial lassies...."What kind of people are you?" I thought.
With my devilish red tail wagging like a cat's ....I wanted to ask them if I could take a closer look at the sign nearest to the ceiling in the far corner.  Tim then reminded me to be nice to the ladies or they may turn you into one of those UGLY DOLLS!
We were smelling pizza in the establishment... so we asked were the Pizza was sold? The ladies looked puzzled and said, " no pizza here". "I 'm smelling Pizza" , I commented....."OH NO that's a skunk under the building!!".   Tim we are so out of here.!!! I think we were in the twilight zone episode.."When Skunks are Pizzas".
Fast forward to 2006....I am searching e-Bay for a customers request for a primitive cloth strawberry.
I was seeing a lot of dolls that we had seen at "THAT SHOP".   I spent the next 8 months researching, trying to figure out this style.   I remember seeing Olde Homestead Barn, Lucy's Lazy Dayz, Tennessee Ridge Primitive, Moonchild Primitives....many patterns were available and I bought one that was a strawberry garland....and the rest is history and a future....in folkart!
This past Monday I was a featured guest artist on "PRIM CHAT" with Lucy and Vicky....Just goes to show there are so many first times!

A Girl Has To Dream..Doesn't She?

2010-06-11T12:54:00.010-04:00

I tend to have huge dreams! I look at things, especially properties and say "What if we....?" This is certainly that dreamy, what if, property for me. I have always wanted a Bed and Breakfast/ Artist Retreat Center. This masterpiece of a property is perfect for such an endevour...........I gotta go and buy a lottery ticket.... I hope I win!
Moral of the post is ...It doesn't hurt anyone if you have big dreams and lofty goals. I have made a dream board with pictures of all the little and big things I would like to have and accomplish... You'll never know what can happen!

I have posted 2 new recipes at www.twodeadbananas.blogspot.com

Remember It's Memorial Day Weekend!

2010-05-26T14:58:00.000-04:00

It's Memorial Day Weekend. Please remember those who served our country and your ancestors that came before you at your picnics and gatherings. Go for a walk and think about our freedoms. I am going to visit the cemeteries where my family members are buried. Doing a little tidying up of the graves and leaving a few flowers just as a token that I remember. Leaving flowers are for the living. The ideals that our departed loved ones left us are to be memorialized.
Memorial Day, Decoration Day, as they used to call it, was a big deal when I was growing up. Mom and my Aunt Elizabeth would have many discussions, weeks in advance, on what flowers should be purchased that particular year and which cemeteries each one would do. I love that memory! Have a good one!

How Sad!

2010-05-24T22:13:00.004-04:00

I was just reading the local paper on line and saw this picture from the gulf. How sad not more is being done! I am sorry I posted such a sad thing. ..I just felt I needed too.
I chose "Simple Gifts" for music if you would like to listen.

3 New Items at the "Merc"

2010-05-24T17:21:00.001-04:00

I have just listed 3 new items on Maple Leaf Mercantile. Click button on side bar to take you there!

Folk Art George

2010-05-21T21:44:00.005-04:00

I have had this lovely piece of folk art for 7 years. He was not priced to sell in the store. Finally, I decided he should not be up for buyer's temptation any longer and deserves a place, some place in my 1920's style home...but just where, I'm not sure.
Not much is known about this piece that we affectionately call ..."Folk Art George". He once hung in a Maine barn. His chin moves up and down. (Click on photo to enlarge)...Could he be an Indian? One of our customers from Cleveland admired "George" ...2 years later she returned and told Tim that she saw a picture of a similar piece and it was a cat symbol....soooo that's what we know. Do you have any thoughts or knowledge of this piece? I would really like to know... Nothing bad has befallen us since he arrived ...and that's a good thing!!!

Mammy's Mother's Day!

2010-05-07T13:29:00.005-04:00

I didn't plan on having Mammy, Orlie and Sukey completed for Mother's Day... but here they be. This pattern was designed by Happy Hearts.

GALA 2010 Conference: A Doll-Lightful World

2010-05-05T19:50:00.005-04:00

Oh Ladies! If you are attending this doll conference please please email me! This is taking place 7 miles from my store/home. It is at Punderson Manor Resort. I guess it is sponsored by www.clothdollconnection.com.
My local craft supply lady mentioned it about 6 months ago. I didn't give it another thought.....until tonight! I looked it up on the web....WoW! Oh WoW! Christine Shively is one of the instructors...she is incredible. I have a few of her patterns (I have not made yet).
If any of you are in the area of Punderson State Park, Newbury, OH May 14-16, 2010.
Contact me by e-mail at butternutcreekfolkart@hotmail.com. or give me a call (440-286-3765)...It would be great to meet you!

A Crime and A Recipe

2010-05-04T21:33:00.005-04:00

See who the culprit is in this week's continuing saga. Click the button on side bar.

What's Been Catching My Eye

2010-05-03T13:50:00.010-04:00

I have been captivated by the beauty and artistry of Diamond K Folk Art and the Izannah Walker dolls by Dixie Redmond. At times, I have to turn away from my monitor. I am just that moved by their work... Dixie offers classes and the work that has been created by her online students is also delightful and inspiring. Her next workshop is this fall but you can sign up now and get little head start.
I would so like to do this workshop...I have never done a class in any shape or form ...so I am apprehensive. I wanted to learn a few more techniques on my own before I could ever think I may slightly consider myself capable of joining this class. I am embarrassed even entertaining the thought... Oh never mind, forget me. Just go and visit these two wonderfully inspiring sites. Dixie is at www.northdixiedesigns.com and www.ladysrepositorymuseum.blogspot.com

Soleil's New Home

2010-04-28T11:06:00.005-04:00

Soleil and Madame Flutterfly did not feel at home in the primland of Butternut Creek Folk Art. Faern-Laega Fantasy Art Dolls Blog is finally accessible. You can now click on the button on the right sidebar and you will be carried to the fantasy!

Wednesdays: "open by chance"

2010-04-27T14:07:00.002-04:00

Last Wednesday, Tim and I went to our favorite second hand store.
Tons of things I wanted to bring home....however, the stash was limited to what is pictured ...sans the quilt. I paid $50 bucks.
This morning. I was visiting Suzanne's blog  at piecedpastimes. She has picked up some amazing things in her out and abouts. Her firkin was $5.00. I was looking at one Wednesday at a firm $35.00 No thanks!
Anyway, my pile was growing . Tim walked over and said "What a great pile of CarJUNKol "? With my wide eyed stare, I replied with my most irritated, "What was that word"? It didn't make any sense to me until he wrote in down. O.K. I must admit it was a little cute........Oh, maybe a lot cute.   I think I like it! My stuff has a name!
Tomorrow, it's off to the beach ....beach CarJUNKol   my favorite!

2010-04-26T21:15:00.000-04:00

In Memory of my cousin Kathy

who died of brain cancer. She was 42 years old.

1968-2010

Two Dead Bananas!

2010-04-26T00:16:00.004-04:00

May sound silly and maybe a tad rude...rough around the edges...SO WHAT! Did you have a kitchen screw up...a recipe malfunction....I would like to hear about it..... all of them.

http://www.twodeadbananas.blogspot.com/

My brand new just-for-the-heck-if-it blog is

Two Dead Bananas

I will periodcally ask a question and I hope you will share.

But please don't get all prim and proper... just say simply...i.e"I just burned the water tonight".

Let's cook up some fun from the kitchen

and see what we get!

Cheers!

DoeDa!

2010-04-23T15:50:00.004-04:00

Spring has sprung at ButternutCreek! There was a rumor that there maybe fairies on the premises....low and behold we have spotted DoeDa. You can read more about her over at the "Merc". http://www.mapleleafmercantile.blogspot.com/

Ahoy! Mateys!

2010-04-19T15:33:00.004-04:00

There has been a wedding at Butternut Creek!
Wendy Deckwalker and Walker D. Plank have tied the knot.
It was a-lot-o'fun bringing this couple to life. Fun and easy to make. Click on picture to see the details.
The pattern is by Nanny Norton. I have made several Walker's, and my store patrons felt bad he had no mate...ta da...Wendy arrives on deck! They are listed on The Maple Leaf Mercantile.
"Argh! Argh!" "Oh...Walker behave!"

Looking In The Mirror

2010-04-15T12:40:00.001-04:00

Karen from My Colonial Home posted a great entry this morning causing alot of peeps to respond. The idea of folks leaving blogging in the dust and going to Face Book....oh just think of those blogs left all alone in Blogland  getting covered with cyber dust ... sleepy dreams and thoughts someone once had and was vulnerable enough to share.
Where did good blogging habits go? I am guilty! I read many blogs everyday...do I leave a comment...not very often. Do I wonder why people don't comment on my blog...you betcha!
I am not the kind of person ...... and I think alot of people are like me...... who just don't talk or write for the sake of commenting.   Several forums that I have joined or tried to join have stipulations, that you MUST reply frequently and will be monitored and can not just hang ... WHAT!!!! ...so be it...I will stay out of that realm and become a better friend and neighbor to fellow bloggers....Visiting and responding willfully.

This is why I don't leave comments:

WHOA!That's just crazy thinking ...I will quietly leave now!
Amen Sister !..I couldn't have said it better.
I am not worthy.
So what!
My opinion dosen't mean that much or would not make any difference.
They have a bazillion followers.
They can not possibly read all the comments left.
I JUST DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY!

We have a great free speech platform and we need to respect it by using it! I will do better, will you?

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

2010-04-05T12:54:00.000-04:00

I'm Tim (Carol's husband) from Merchant Connection. I've been in the creditcard processing business for 15 years.
I have several programs available to allow you to accept creditcards no matter what type of business you own.
***FOR BRICK AND MORTAR AND MOBILE MERCHANTS***
I can provide you with a terminal FREE of charge. That's right! Free of charge! The terminal can be either wireless or conventional phone or DSL. This program is recommended for merchants who do a minimum of two shows a month or run a brick and mortar store front.
***FOR HOME BASED BUSINESSES THAT DO A FEW SHOWS A YEAR AND ALSO WANT WEBSITE PROCESSING***
I have a program that will give you the flexibilty process credit cards on your PC AND process credit cards on your website! I will be happy to explain credit card processing to you in easy to understand terms! I am highly rated by my clients for my customer service! I work with Mom and Pop businesses as well as large corporations nationwide.
If you are already processing, I may be able to save you money!
Email me at merchantconnection@hotmail.com or call me at 1-800-880-2816 9am-9pm EST

Happy Easter To You

2010-04-01T13:29:00.000-04:00

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!

It has been a busy last few weeks. I have to admit I didn't do as much sewing as I should have. Tim and I went to the movies and saw "Alice In Wonderland" we did love it and if you can fit it in do see it!Then last Saturday it was the much awaited "MOONDOG CORONATION BALL" which was just great. I regret I did not bring my camera. For Easter, we will be going to Parkside Church. My cousin Carane just got back from a tour of Israel and Jordan. I am looking forward to hearing all about the trip. The three of us will be going to "Mavis Winkles Irish Pub" for an Easter buffet.

Do you remember these panoramic sugar eggs? I found mine this morning and it is still in perfect condition.

The next picture is Easter 1960 of Mom and Dad's girls. I am the little one.

Have a hippty-hoppity Easter Day!

Yeah!.... and What Else Is New!

2010-03-29T20:14:00.000-04:00

Can someone tell me what happen to March? It flew by! I have been busy sewing. I have posted several items over on the Maple Leaf Mercantile, my selling blog. I was asked, "Why did you add a selling blog ....you have the Butternut Creek Folk Art blog? Well..............because I wanted to! Oh, now that wasn't nice was it. But when you sell, you have to be about doing business...and the folk art blog is work space I would like to call it a fun space...a place where thoughts and ideas and are born and nutured and I expose the real me . Kinda of like the good the bad and the ugly. Ugly.... I hope not to much of that, but, then again, ugly happens.

Shhhhhh! Don't tell anyone but....... I am going to have another blog......I heard that... "are you freakin' nuts" in the background!

It is called FAERN-LAEGA, art dolls. This is where my art dolls will live and be discussed . This blog is ME! The music and the blog background the castle picture it's just ME !ME! ME! I go there and just meditate when I have a creative block. You may have seen the button on the side bar...yep that's mine. (Sorry no click link yet ) Faern-laega is old saxon for Farley, my maiden name. Farley-Hungerford Castle is my ancestral digs. What better name for fantasy art dolls! You should know by now that all my endeavors have an attachemnt to my life. Butternut Creek is in my back yard.... thus Butternut Creek Folk Art. Farley's Country Store my home, my store and mission control.

My selling blog Maple Leaf Mercantile ....Just because! My blog ....of crenels and thatched roofs....my family had castles and thatched roofed cottages and many, many lives and lores.

Go to the place where I go to get grounded and where beautiful things will live. http://www.faern-laega.blogspot.com/.

I have ambled on enough for tonight ..talk again soon. 'nite!

St. Patrick's Day....All In The Family!

2010-03-17T13:37:00.000-04:00

When I think of St. Patrick's Day...these images come to mind.

Picture one is circa 1907 just after my grandmother Jennie Ruddell and her father James Ruddell, came to the United States from Portadown, Ireland. The other picture, circa 1903, is of the home and family they left in the motherland.

*Just a note: I will have a story about Grandma Jennie, an Irish linen factory worker, on my "...of crenels and thatched roofs" blog sometime this year.

Introducing: The Maple Leaf Mercantile

2010-03-15T22:10:00.000-04:00

May I introduce to you " MAPLE LEAF MERCANTILE" my selling blog. I had this in my thoughts since November and now it's finally done.

I had several beaten and all primmed up shelves and dolls to put on the "Merc" but I had one heck of a busy week in the store. Now I have no shelves left and my Jelly Cupboard that I have had forever in the store...yep gone....alot of "smalls" ...yep gone again.

Two sets of Ms.Melba and Friends dolls went to a very nice lady in Perry, Ohio. She collects Aunt Jemima anythings!

So what better time than when stock is down to start a selling blog LOL! I am not sure what I was doing but the "Merc" has an on line presence and I am sure I will need to tweek....alot. Excuse the ruff edges... constuctive criticism is welcome! Take a look by clicking on the Maple Leaf Mercantile tile on the side bar to your right. Enjoy!

Saps A Risin' and a New Blog

2010-03-13T15:01:00.000-05:00

Wow! We had 24 inches of snow on the ground last weekend and this weekend snow's gone It was 69 degreesWednesday! That means it's Maple time in Geauga County. Chardon is known for being the snowbelt capital of Ohio as well as the Maple Capital of Ohio. Tim and I celebrated Tappin'Sunday with pancakes and the local liquid gold. Yummo! Maple Festival will be the end of April!

My family had been in the area maple industry since the 1830's. Here is a picture of Grandpa in the 1930's .
Notice the shirt and tie...maybe it was Sunday!
***********************************************
Do you like seeing this kind of posting? I have just opened up a new blog :... of Crenel and Thatched Roofs. This will be about stories of life "back in the day". I have had many emails from folks wanting a place just for my memorablia and stories...without the art. I will post there when I have compiled a story to tell. Do you remember my past postings of the Civil War Diary and Lovina's Gift? That is what ...of Crenel and Thatched Roofs will include.... present day to medievil England. You are more than welcome to step back in time with me! You can become a follower now....so you will be there when the next story happens. ( I have not posted there yet.. this article will be lengthened and tweeked and then live there for evermore) http://www.crenelsandthatchedroofs.blogspot.com/

Absolute Americana!

2010-03-08T15:03:00.000-05:00

This piece was an absolute joy to make! I felt like a 7 year old again. Many small facets make the piece grand...what fun...I was sad when the fun ended last night, as the flags went into the hands....It's done and I am so pleased!
Sam and Libby are stump dolls...the balloon is a nine inch styrofoam ball...making the total length 25 inches. This is a Prim and Proper Folk design. (Click on picture for greater detail)

Leprechaun Class of 2010

2010-03-01T10:39:00.000-05:00

What a fine group of lads we have! This was a fun pattern by Pea Pickers Primitives. Fun Fast and Funky!

Sunday Morning Thought

2010-02-28T15:34:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning and I was going to bitch...yes bitch, about the weather...5 more inches overnight...blah...blah ...blah.

My thoughts went to the people that lost so much in Haiti last month and the Chileans yesterday....What a spoiled brat I am.

It is cold and beautiful today... and I shall not want!

What Do You Think?

2010-02-26T13:59:00.000-05:00

What is my plan for the big 85th this year.. I don't know! My family was not the type to bring attention to themselves. Advertising was unheard of ...an act of desparation so they said, back in the day. Fortunately, the store is located at the intersection of 2 main state routes...lots of commuter traffic...but ask anybody and they will know exactly where the store is ..."been there forever"... possiblities are endless!

I am a procrastinating, spur of the moment...let's do this.. then think about it for awhile, kind of person. I have been wanting to paint the store for about a year. I had totally redone the store in 1995, before that nothing had been changed since 1945. Tim is color blind and he isn't seeing my vision. This is what I am thinking:

The walls would stay the same, although, I wouldn't mind a change. The green on the present shelves would be white with distrssed sanding and stain.

This shelving is on the entire wall 25 feet floor to ceiling.
Am I crazy or a genius? I am tough... be honest!

Am I In Love...Really?

2010-02-21T20:38:00.000-05:00

Whata question? Whata thought ...considering I am happily married? I was reading Country Business Magazine, during my morning soak today.... "Don't fall in love with your fixtures" the article states. Hmmmm...I want to call it sentimentality.
I have a HUGE island of shelves in the middle of the store. They have been in the store since the 1940's when my dad bought them from an old grocery store in downtown Cleveland. They are old maple wood and held alot of canned food items... I can remember what was displayed on each shelf.. cookies, crackers, pickles, peaches and pears, cake mixes, baby food, dog food, and on and on I could go! On the very bottom shelf was where I used to hide as a feisty 5 year old and scare customers by reaching my hand out and touching a leg or a giggle seemingly coming from nowhere and watch the puzzled look on their faces.
Today... The shelves are not working as well as they should be for me ...I'm not sure what I would put in thier place.. a few round oak tables.. a big old farm harvest table... maybe I should have the old shelves made into other display fixtures?
It's a touchy subject with me and I'm not ready to deal with it right now....Yes, I am In Love With My Fixtures!
Next time: How to celebrate 85 year in business!

Ming Update!

2010-02-19T21:12:00.000-05:00

Ming is home, taking a nap, and doing well! Thanks for all your good thoughts today.

Think Good Thoughts for Ming Today!

2010-02-19T12:39:00.000-05:00

This is Ming!   He is one of our two Bengal Cats. This morning Ming greeted me with his usual demanding cry...Feed Me Now!    He turned his tail toward me and there it was .....12 inches of thread hanging out the poop chute.   Blog buds with cats will know that thread can be a deal breaker in a cats life.
I have tried to be very careful . Ming has a fetish for thread. ...especially if it is on a sewing machine. He will go into a trance when he sees thread and will pursue until he gets to it or will watch to see were I stash the spool.
Ming is a techy.. I have lost count on the number of thermostats he has dismantled... we have digital ones now. He has issues with the guy in the answering machine ...and the printers don't get me started . Ming thinks he was put on this earth to kill what lives the printers.
Well, Ming is at the Vet's office. When we left he was on the way to x-ray and then the the elimination station... an intimate moment with Dr. Domico, I'm sure. Then another x-ray.  Ming...Ming... Ming I am missing him this afternoon...the house is too quiet and calm.
As a bengal owner a word of warning... exotics are beautiful and fascinating ..but know fully what you are bring into your home, hopfully, for the next 15 years.  Don't take my words lightly...be fair to yourself,your family and above all to the magnificent creature.
My project today is to tighten up my sewing supply security.   I became lax and Ming is paying the price!
Think good thoughts for my Minger-Man!

A Doll orTwo For President's Day!

2010-02-15T16:41:00.000-05:00

Just put the finishing touches on two pieces. George and Blueskin was a fantastically (?) fun pattern to make . Both are about 20 inches in height. The Uncle Sam Tames The Hare is just delightful to look at and a great tool for story-telling . Both patterns were designed by Prim and Proper Folk. Both pieces were requested for purchase review.

Just a thought!

2010-02-06T20:06:00.000-05:00

After a while you learn
the subtle difference
between holding a hand
and chaining a soul,
and you learn
that love doesn't mean leaning
and company doesn't mean security.
And you begin to accept your defeats
with your head up and your eyes ahead
with the grace of a woman,
not the grief of a child.
And you learn to build all your roads on today
because tomorrow's ground is
too uncertain for plans
and futures have a way of falling down
in mid-flight.
After awhile you learn
that even sunshine burns if you ask too much.
So you plant your own garden
and decorate your own soul
instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.
And you learn
      that you really can endure
           that you really are strong
                and you really do have worth.
And you learn
        and you learn
             with every goodbye
                   you learn.....

                                     -(V.S.)

Sew Little Fingers...Look What You Have Made!

2010-02-02T18:47:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not I have been sewing. I do tend to go on history rants....that's just the way I am. I hope to have all seasons represented in the store. Sounds good in theory... We shall see as I can never get too far ahead as far as inventory goes. This fine young cupid to our left has been a great seller for me. He is certainly a smile maker. He is a "Nanny Norton" Pattern. He is fun to make and will melt your heart. As I said, he is a mainstay in my inventory. Next is "Dill" She is a plump frog.... lots of "tude". This is almost too cutesy, country for my liking....still a fun doll to make ....I have already sold one this week. She is made from a"Simply Nantucket's" pattern.

Next, what can I say about Vampire Bunnies...they are heart stealers.

fun to make ...mostly a painting project.. Well worth the time... my peeps are asking for them even though it's mid -winter. They came from the beautiful mind of "Frowning Francis".

What's on my work table? I have several simple sweet bunnies.

A Queeen Anne Doll...that is looking very anemic tonight...she will have life in a few days. Her clothes are beautiful and I can't wait to show her to you. I have a skinny twin to "Dill" the plumb frog...her name is "Pickles"...A long , tall gal for sure. I just received my glass eyes today. I had been looking since Christmas for them....very much worth the wait...they will bring life to an art doll that is way, way different than any pattern I have done before. And I am going to have to try to create my own pattern for an order request to be completed in March. I never thought I would be making my own pattern.... a detailed Dragon fly will be a test for me.

Love That Pink Dessert!

2010-02-01T16:47:00.000-05:00

I am not a fan of Valentines Day! Really, I don't like it at all. I don't like Red, can't stand Pink, and hearts kinda creep me out!    I perfer Sweetest Day celebrated in the East and Midwest the 3rd Saturday in October.
My earliest recollection of Valentines Day was in second grade. The teacher, Mrs. Fenwick, had us make Valentine mailboxes...ok I 'm into that...what's not to like ...it's a craft right! But, then the shoe dropped...."you must take this list of ALL YOUR CLASSMATES  home and bring a Valentine for each one!   WHAT!?! ...lets be honest did you like everyone in your class....and then send a Valentine to them!!! YUCKO!! ...I didn't sleep much 'cuz I didn't like the whole idea...."Mom.. I'm not feeling so good today..I should stay home today, 'kay.'' "But Honey, it's the big Valentines Day Party". (Exactly).
So, I delivered my cards (honest I did). "Children it's time to do a dance called the Minuet. Form two lines; girls in one, boys in the other, facing one another." The music starts ...one step ..double step hold hands and....COOTIES.   Refreshments: Pink Punch, Pink Cookies and the silly message hearts ...I coped.

Here is my favorite pink dessert...I think you will Luv it:

ICE CREAM DESSERT

Soften 1/2 gallon Vanilla Ice Cream

Mix together:

1 1/2 cups crushed Rice Checks Cereal

3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar

1 Stick Butter, melted

1/2 cup coconut

pinch of salt

walnuts optional

Press 1/2 above into 9X13. Set aside.

When Ice Cream is thawed, spread onto crust, and freeze.

Thaw 1 quart of Rasberry Sherbet, spread on top of frozen Vanilla Ice Cream.

Sprinkle with the remaining crust fixings and freeze.

Enjoy!

what's with the white lines..must be cooties!

What the....!

2010-01-31T14:09:00.000-05:00

hoew styole mi spyell chieck ?

MoonDog Coronation Ball 2010

2010-01-29T18:46:00.000-05:00

It's that time again when Cleveland celebrates it's Rock and Roll heritage.
Picture it... March 21, 1952, Cleveland, O*H*I*O. Local DJ Alan Freed, the man that coined the phrase "Rock and Roll", and a concert promoter sold 20,000 tickets to a concert venue that had the capcity for 10,000. Fearing a riot, the concert was shut down by firefighters after the first act. This was America's first rock concert.
Freed was not deterred. Becoming more and more popular with Cleveland teenagers, called by Freed "MoonDogs" and was known for his howl into the micrphone..... The concert became an annual event.
Today, WMJI 105.7, hosts a more gentile event at the Quicken Loans Arena, home of The Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James. Nostaglia reigns for the evening for about 18,000 young and old rockers... just enjoying the sounds of their youth.... just one more time.
Tim and I have gone to this concert each year since we were married 8 years ago. It's a guaranteed date night we look forward to each year. This year we may add a visit to ... Cleveland's own Iron Chef America...Michael Symon's LOLA BISTRO. I can't wait.
Last year, we were entertained by Little Richard, Three Dog Night, Hermans Hermits, Jerry Butler and my very favorite Tommy James and The Shondell's. It was the best!!! MoonDog 2010 will deliver to the stage: Little Anthony, The Turtles, Grand Funk Railroad, and Paul Revere and The Raiders . Sounds like a good show.
Cleveland, the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, invites the world to the MoonDog Coronation Ball 2010.
Blogger friends, if you can come to Cleveland that night, Tim and I would really like to meet you. Trust me Cleveland can be fun and beautiful....there's a lot of history and art in Cleveland and the surrounding areas. Come on give Cleveland a try!

Lovinia's Simple Gift

2010-01-07T23:06:00.000-05:00

I enjoy antiques. If I can find a potential family piece that is just about as good as it gets for me. An on line auction site was where the gem to the left was discovered. I won the auction with surprise. I felt bad that I didn't pay more...I would have. The white and indigo blue 1855 coverlet is in tough shape. My thought was, "I want the corner with all the info on it , maybe frame it". When I opened the package I fell in love with the entire piece ..I can't cut this up for "needfulls". This is going up on the wall of our bedroom or Grandma Farley's old bedroom.....little holes and rough edges to boot. I love it!
I am also caught up in the history of the coverlet.

I have been working on the history of this textile piece of art for 6 weeks. Lovinia LeBaron born 19 May 1815 in Leroy, New York. Died 15 April 1876. Her father was Dr. Francis LeBaron (1768-1832) born in Killingworth, Conn. Her mother was Sabra Kelsey. The Doctor was Apothecary General of the United States from 1813 to 1821. His picture is to the right.
So this is the lineage of Miss Lovinia:

Lovinia Lebaron marries Benjamin Farley
Franicis LeBaron marries Sabra Kelsey
David LeBaron marries Martha Chatfield
(Served in The Great Rebellion in the Army)
James LeBaron marries Martha Bensen
Dr. Francis LeBaron marries Mary Wilder

The last Dr. Francis (1669-1695) was a French Huguenot. He shipwrecked in Buzzards Bay off Plymouth Harbor, MA. Taken prisoner by the colonists. Later, he saved the life of a townswoman. and became a freeman. He lived and practiced medicine in the Wilder Homestead.(pictured)

The final picture is a painting by Fredick Dielman "The Wedding of Francis LaBaron and Mary Wilder".1695

Lovinia and Benjamin Farley lived in Newfane, Niagra County, New York. New England towns usually had 2 weavers....Newfane had only one between 1843-1860. The town weaver was Thomas Gladding, born in England, about 1810. Weavings like Lovinia's would cost between $14 and $20. Truly an investment for her home.

Benjamin was a genius farmer for the time. Serving as sheriff in 1857 and State Assemblymen 1866-1869.
He is not a direct line ancestor to me. We have a common ancestor and I will find the bond someday.

I Call It Cabin Fever after 14 days!

2010-01-07T13:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I did my best impression of a ground hog on his special day. I did not see my shadow...but we did get a dead battery in a certain Big Box Shopping Center parking lot. See there are silver linings...in the parking lot!!!
I just had to get some Gesso for one of my newest projects. I have made pattern templates for 4 new patterns I bought last fall. I am shaking in my shoes at the thought of working on The Beast by Pam Grose... If anyone has made him I would like to know what your thoughts are concerning the project.
Robert will have the driveway plowed out Friday...what a nice Birthday gift for me.

And There Shall Be Snow!

2010-01-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

The Lake Erie snow machine is in fine working order! We live 12 miles inland from the lake in the rolling hills of Ohio!

So we get on average 140 inches of snow a year. The snow started on New Years Eve and hasn't stopped yet! We have around 35 inches on the ground. It is beautiful.

Lily loves the snow! We thought she would be a diva and not want to go out in the white stuff.... she finds excuses to ring the bell and get out there and snow tunnel.

Our snow plow guy, Robert, blew the transmission on his truck.....that means no plowing for most of the week. I don't think the store will be open soooo....what will I do with the free time? Choices... to many choices...

I could:

Do Spring Cleaning in the store
Finish 4 frog dolls
Finish 6 Bunny ornies
Start "The Beast" art doll by Pam Grose
Work in the cold basement
Futz around on the computer
Make snow angels with Lily
Clean my half of the office

What will I do???

Happy New Year Everybody!

2009-12-31T21:01:00.000-05:00

Heaven Can Give No More!

2009-12-26T22:25:00.000-05:00

"Oh God, take us in Spirit to the watchful shepherds and enlarge our minds, let us hear good tidings of great joy, and hearing, believe, rejoice, praise, and adore. Place us with the oxen and sheep in that stable, to look with them upon our Redeemer's face and know ourselves delivered from sin in Him. In Him, You have given us so much that heaven can give no more"

Sweeeeeet!!

2009-12-17T11:54:00.000-05:00

Just as I thought everything was under control....I have to make another 50 pounds of fudge to cover more phone in orders from yesterday ...can't turn down my loyal, last minute, "Fudgies". My shoulders are cringing.. but my soul will be pleased! 50lbs in 48 hours...the math.... the math!!!

What Have I done!

2009-12-15T22:52:00.000-05:00

I declare at this moment that I am content with what I have made for the Christmas.
Soleil is complete. I also made over one hundred "smalls" as I felt thats what "my peeps" wanted this year. Even my little Vampire Bunnies are selling as tree jewelry.
I need to make many multiplies when possible. My true satisfaction comes in crafting a large complex piece. I have been blessed that my first is the best.
The new year will be here in 16 days! My list is coming together to proudly proclaim what I will commence to do in the new decade. Thank God! It's been a tough 10 years all over the world.....to be continued!

2009-12-15T22:50:00.001-05:00

2009-12-15T20:26:00.001-05:00

SOLEIL!

2009-12-15T19:39:00.001-05:00

Soleil is the third art doll I have made. He was a challenge...much different than the prim dolls I am used to making. I hesitated on selling him...so he is just "tending shop" for now. He may show up on the mercantile site when I get it up and going.

UTT OH!!!

2009-12-07T12:28:00.000-05:00

I heard these two words coming from Tim, who was in the office. We decided to get an external hard drive for my computer. "Better safe that sorry"...words that everyone of us has heard from a saged family member.....Sorry came before safe for me that night..10 days ago. The scenario leading up to the fateful minute was on going for the entire day. "Utt...Oh....Pussycat, I think everything is lost on your computer". Tim went on line to find a possible recovery system...found some...didn't work...Called a few places....robbery!!!
It was late when we went to bed. We were both very quiet, starring at the ceiling. I was not angry...maybe just in shock and denial. Tomorrow is another day, right! Then I started to think about my Legacy file with at least 852 years and 3.5 months of my family lineage on it... GONE! All my prim patterns....GONE! Pictures...Gone!!! EVERYTHING... GONE!! Then it felt like we had lost a family pet. Not much sleep.
During the last election... a classmate of mine was running for our Township Trustee. He stopped in to see if we would be interested in supporting him. He has a computer warehouse were he salvages and repairs them.
Mike is a good guy...one of the smartest and clever of the lot in 1976. "Tim, call Mike D. and see what he says". Four days later I have my computer back,and a full back up system in place, and everyone one of my files are accounted for... Mike's son is a true computer whiz. When did fate step in to play?... at election time who knows.. But, my prayers last night included a former classmate and his son...Oh Ya!

That Turkey Don't Lie!

2009-11-24T19:06:00.000-05:00

Well... I did it! I thought this year would be different but.....NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
I have succeeded in the Holiday Procrastination Tradition... some say it's a family thing. If I did every little thing on my "THINGS I GOTTA DO LIST" there would be nothing left to live for ...Ha!!!
My friend, the Turkey (to the right) that I invited to live on my blog just rubs it in every time I look at him. I thought he was cute .... now he laughs at me. Two freaking days.
Anyway.... We are going to Punderson Manor for Thanksgiving Dinner. I still feel that I have to cook a dinner... that will happen on the weekend.
Back in the 80's and 90's of the previous century...we had a few old order Amish ladies that would bake a multitude of yumminess to sell in our store. Mary Miller would host Amish Wedding Dinners for the "Yankees" as a part of tour group our store was connected with. I had the pleasure and privilege to be invited by Emma to a full Amish Wedding Ceremony and Dinner for her son Mikey Slaubaugh and his bride. This is one of my cherished and greatest memories...Oh the pictures I mentally took that day!
Here is one of Mary Miller's recipes that I will be making this weekend:

MARY MILLER'S DATE NUT PUDDING
Batter:
1/2 cup sugar
2 Tablespoons butter
1 cup milk
1 cup flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dates
1/4 cup nuts

Syrup:
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups hot water
2 teaspoons butter
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
Whipping Cream

Boil syrup for 5 minutes and pour into cake pan. Mix the batter ingredients together and pour the batter on top of the syrup. Bake for 30 minutes at 325 to 350 degrees or until a toothpick comes out clean just off the center. Cool and serve with whipped cream.

Happy Thanksgiving! Outen The Lights

Jay C., James A., Jelly and Jam

2009-11-10T18:21:00.000-05:00

Jay C. Smith was my great-grand uncle. Born in Ira, Caynga County, New York, April 28, 1838 to Aretus Gregory and Keturah (Davis) Smith. Jay was the fifth of ten children.
I became interested in Jay as I am in possession of his diary. I have posted the last entries made to his diary which you can find below. He did not die on the battle field in a grueling battle...but he died in an Army Hospital of disease. His words are few but in reading his last words I can feel the cold and see the bleakness that surrounded him. Feel the warmth of the fire that he took refuge in when his own hospital bed was frozen.
Company B of the 41st OVI Regiment was formed in Geauga County, Ohio. Henry W. Johnson and L. T. Patchin went from village to village, neighborhood to neighborhood, with the flag flying, to the step of a fife and drum....this was grass roots recruitment. Jay C. Smith at the age of 23 entered the service for the Battle of the Rebellion, August 20, 1861.
Can you see these men walking with the flag?...Can you hear the fife and drum?
Can you see the anxious faces of young farm boys ready and able to fight for their country?
I am sure Jay started recording his Army days on August 20,1861. I don't have any proof that an earlier diary existed but I think it did. Even when Jay was very sick he made entries everyday without fail.
What else can I learn from Jay's diary? Tucked in the back slot is a teaching certificate dated 1858.... so he was a teacher...maybe. A few newspaper clippings one for "Cottage Pudding and Sauce" and "Buttermilk Pudding with Maple Syrup" and "Apple Jelly"... Many hand written recipes are in the last 8 pages of the little book. The writing appears to be that of my great grandmother Lodiska, sister to Jay.
Interesting recipes.... maybe I will post some of these. Tomato Pickles, Ginger Snaps, Sponge Cake, Mince Pie, Fruit Cake, Lemon Pie, Spiced Peaches, ( Note: My Mom made these are they were the best). I can get lost in "olde time" recipes.
The Smith family is buried in South Newbury Cemetery. This was a bustling farm community at one time. James Abram Garfield (later our 20th president) spoke at the Union Chapel at South Newbury. This is a great bit of history....Garfield was barred from speaking at the Congregational Church...the parishioners did not think it was proper to speak of politics in the house of the Lord.
In 1856, the people of South Newbury built the Union Chapel,dedicated to free speech...... across the road from the Church. The walls of this small yet mighty building heard the voices of James A. Garfield, Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone, Louisa M. Alcott, Theodore Parker, the advocate of the 8 hour working day, and John B. Gough, three time candidate for president on the Prohibition ticket. Wow! Wow! and Wow!
Field Trip....7 miles from our front door! Here is what we found:

A Tribute to Jay Cleveland Smith, My Great-Grand Uncle

2009-11-10T12:53:00.000-05:00

Louisville, Kentucky 41st Ohio Regiment
Jay Cleveland Smith (28 April 1838- 26 January 1862)
His diary as follows:

January 1, 1862 Wednesday
The weather looks like rain this morning. Henry Hotchkiss came this morning and I went with him to his friends, where I partook of a splendid dinner. I walked back and was about bushed.

January 2, 1862 Thursday
It is cloudy and unpleasant this morning. I did not feel very well stayed in the house all day. Did not go to bed tonight. Very slippery.

January 3, 1862 Friday
It is rather misty and cold this morning. It rained quite hard before night. John Whitlam came in here today. He came from Camp with James Sisk. Two of the 91st boys started from here for Camp this morning.

January 4, 1862 Saturday
There was some signs of snow this morning. I feel rather miserable today. _____
______ came to see me today. There was a lot of sick men brought in tonight. I received a letter from R. P. Bennett Jr.

January 5, 1862 Sunday
It is not very pleasant. This morning some of the Ohio boys were sent to Cincinnati. I started to go a visiting today but the _____ did not______.
It rained and froze.

January 6, 1862 Monday
I was taken with the measles today and sent to No.4 Hospital. I was some sick, but did not like this place very well. Slept on a miserable bed tonight.

January 7, 1862 Tuesday
Ached so bad from lying on a bad bed. I got up and went to the fire . Thought it could no more than kill me and it would surely do that, to lay in a bed that is froze up solid. I slept very sound.

January 8, 1862 Wednesday
I began to feel quite well today. I am very weak and my back and sides pain me so. I am in misery. We have awful hard life here.

January 9, 1862 Thursday
It rained hard most all day. I lay on the bed about all day. A hundred sick men came in last night. They sent some of the Ohio boys to Cincinnati today.

January 10,1862 Friday
Nothing new on the program today. The room as noisy as ever. I had some mush and milk for supper tonight.

January 11, 1862 Saturday
Got up this morning and made my bed for the first time in this hospital. Got some potatoes for dinner with sprouts two inches long. I took a dose of oil today , the first I can remember of.

January 12 1862 Sunday
It rained very hard some of the time today. I would like a clean shirt mine are both dirty. The nurses all came out with white shirts today.

January 13, 1862 Monday
It is pretty cold today. some of the boys started for their Regt. this morning. L.T. Patchin came here to see us today. The bed hurt my bones horribly tonight. Very cold.

January 14,1962 Tuesday
It was very cold this morning. I did hate to get up. did not feel as well today as yesterday. preat came in last night sick and came here today. Some more sick men came in tonight.

January 15, 1862 Wednesday
I took some pills for the dierer did not do any good last night. Was so weak I could hardly walk. i lay on a bed just about all day. Some more sick men came in to night.

January 16, 1862 Thursday
It was very unpleasant this morning. I took six more pills tonight for my dierear.
Brigadier Quartermaster Johnson came here last night. Advised me to go home. I felt rather offended about it.

January 17, 1862 Friday
I felt worse today had a hard fever the Doc's gave me they're powder. I was glad when they were gone. Pleat came again today. I could not sleep tonight.

January 18, 1862 Saturday
lay afed gr as a
"The last words he ever wrote was to sick to finish what he commenced"

January 19,1862 to January 25,1862 no entries.

January 26, 1862 Sunday
Pa reached Louisville this morning, Jay was very anxious to come home, and laid his plan for coming. Thought he could ride in a boat as easy as to lie in the hospital. But his journey was different from what he anticipated..He died at 10 o'clock P.M. Very cold and dreary.~~~ written by Lodiska Smith, Jay's sister

IT'S GRRRRAPE!

2009-10-10T21:12:00.000-04:00

Making Concord Grape Pie has become a yearly ritual... a rite of passage into fall.
Squeezing one of these fruits of the vine and the robust taste explosion that comes afterwards,just says... YES! FALL IS HERE!!!! It's happy dance time...I am baking pies! Concords may not be available everywhere...and they may be pricey in the grocery stores. Grapes grown nearer to the Lake Erie shores are the best.

Lake Erie Concord Grape Pie
1-9 inch pie crust unbaked
4 1/2 cups Concord grapes
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup all purpose flour
2 tsp. lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
Oat Streusel (recipe below)

Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees

Wash grapes and remove skins by pinching. Keep the skins.
Place the pulp in a saucepan and bring to boil and cook a few minutes until pulp is soft. Put through a food mill, while pulp is still hot to remove seeds. Mix strained pulp with all the skins. Stir in sugar, flour, lemon juice and salt.

Place grape mixture in unbaked pie crust shell. Sprinkle Oat Streusel over filling. Cover pie crust edges with foil. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 20 minutes more until golden. Cool on wire rack.

OAT STREUSEL
1/2 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar,firmly packed
1/4 cup butter

ENJOY!

Mummies,Witches,Ghosts, Cats and Pumpkins.... Oh! My!

2009-10-09T13:21:00.000-04:00

Betz Takes A Rest!

2009-10-06T16:25:00.000-04:00

I can't find words to describe Betz. She is a bashful witch. She is beautiful in her own way!

Meet Hedra!

2009-10-06T16:04:00.000-04:00

I just finished this wee field witch. She comes to life at night and runs around the store looking for mushrooms!

Time Flies....Run and Catch the Wind!

2009-09-25T20:23:00.000-04:00

There was so much more Summertime when I was younger. I pretended I had a diner at my slide in the backyard. My imaginary special was the Hay Seed Soup....but you had to sit on slide step #3 to be served. All my "regulars" loved my cooking. There was always a new secret spot to explore...especially near the banks of Butternut Creek.

Reading the posts of the blogs I follow ...There is a time and a purpose for all those little things that make up a much bigger picture... Most of us are busy trying to keep up with our businesses...sewing, painting, and designing...others are cooking, canning and eating great things from the garden. But, some are mourning losses in their families as well as celebrating new beginnings.

I forgive myself for not blogging in almost 2 months. Tim, Lily and I are now house broken. We trained Lily to ring a strand of sleigh bells attached to the door knob when she needs to got out! Lily has tripled in size to about 30 pounds. As for detante..hum...Max is having the hardest time getting used to Lily...he was the baby and he just doesn't get the purpose of Lily. Max turned 2 years old on September 23. We each celebrated by eating 2 shrimp.

The seasons they are a changing...it has been so warm..so nice. Tomorrow it is going to rain and maybe highs is the fifties on Monday...where did the Summer go? I stood on the bank of Butternut Creek today and the wind blew the leaves of the elm tree...I saw these leaves when they were only buds... really not that long ago. My thoughts went directly to what I had wanted to get done this year and what I actually accomplished... instead of running to catch the wind .... I will turn and face it head on in the sunlight and just let life be.

A Few Vacation Pix!!

2009-08-02T17:51:00.000-04:00

Lucy and Lily and Liberty!

2009-07-11T20:13:00.000-04:00

Tim and I vacationed in Minnesota, near the Boundary Waters. Tim's family is from that neck of the woods. We had an excellent time, celebrating with family every night at a different cabin. Food, food , family, food , family, family! You know what I'm talking about.

This vacation started with a visit with LUCY!!! Lucy of http://lucyslazydayzprimitives.com/ How that much energy and creativity can be in one little body, I just don't know.....I am inspired.

I was so honored that she and her husband took time out of their busy day to met Tim and me. Thank you Lucy and Tom.

If you are near Tomah WI stop in and see" Counrty Spirit Shoppe" it is beautiful. Lucy rocks!!! (I bet she hears that alot)

We made the 820 mile trip from Chardon to the Twin Cities in 14 hours. The next day was final leg to our destination. With sister-in law Terese and her husband Lawarence, in from San Fran ,we traveled three more hours straight north to Lake Vermilion.

Happy July 4th to all!!

"Will you be at the parade in town?" "Meet us at the usual corner by the bank". "We have a lot to do before the after-parade-reunion party". " Can we pick anything up at Zup's Food Store?"

"MOM!!! Carol and Tim adopted a puppy at the parade!!! "

Yes, there is the pitter patter of new little paws in our lives......Lily!

Let me tell you about the greatest puppy dog in the world.....I know your dog is better than mine, but just give Lily a moment.

Lily is a Cocker Spaniel/Bassett Hound mix. Big eyes, big ears, big feet, little legs.

Lily loves everyone and everyone loves Lily! She was a favorite at all family gatherings.

Detente pact with Lily, Ming, Max, Su and Mia being worked out as I write....Updates to follow!

Peace and liberty to all......man and beast!

Don't Make Me Laugh

2009-06-21T14:22:00.000-04:00

I asked Tim, "How can I lose 30 pounds really fast?"

Tim loving replied, "Pussycat, pick up two bowling balls and let go!"

Lessons From The Creek: Photos

2009-06-19T13:52:00.000-04:00

"How do you run this contraption"? "Bulbs are never where I want them!" "Darn it the flash didn't go off?" "When will I be able to see again?" "Keep your hands to yourself and look at the camera". "Put your fingers down....that one too." "Cameras are not toys....don't open the.....ah no...Carol Jean!!!"

What great quotes from the past. Pictures taking is quite a simple, yet complex task for the photographer as well as his victims. I have a picture of my second great-grandfather hours before he died . Poor Grandpa having to put up with all that fuss..He had heaven on his mind.. ..meeting his maker. His family knew how important his picture was to them... 158 years later Joshua Farley (1769-1850), his picture was in the hands of one of his great-great-great grand daughters. Thanks for taking that picture.

I am getting an early anniversary gift. " Move to the back of the cupboard Mom's old Brownie", "You too Dad's Kodak whatever model you are", "You were a good camera ,Cannon Sure Shot... There's a new camera in this house..a Nikon D40. No need for the Nikon D 1trillion; that is rumored to wipe the sweat from your brow as you mutter," How do I run this contraption"?

Lessons From The Creek: Changes

2009-06-18T12:57:00.000-04:00

"Butternut Creek must be a gentle, quiet, flowing stream". How wrong you are! Don't get me wrong... it used to be that way. Butternut Creek is in my backyard. The creek could generate enough power to run a sawmill. This sawmill produced the wood to build our store in the 1880's. Ah, Geauga County Pine...beautiful, but harder then hockey sticks to nail. In 1924, the Creek gave a proud 12 year old Boy Scout, new to the neighborhood, a business venture opportunity. Minnows!! Dad was on his way in the business world.

"EGADS...Girl", mother shreiked as I deposited a water snake on the kitchen table. I will not touch a snake today! Changes.

Today, there is no water in Butternut Creek, at least not in the immediate backyard. I did plant some Iris on the bank in the midst of the black walnut , elms, and a few pines. I noticed deer track in the creek bed. Should we put out a salt lick??? My neighbor buys apple seconds and has a steady following of deer. She always could draw a crowd for lunch...they had a little neighborhood diner in a building in front of their house. Great burgers by the way! Mr. I. has passed away ...the diner is closed..Changes.

Across the road from our place,is a Sunoco Gas station. Once upon a time, a school stood there. Anna Spencer Richardson was the teacher. My dad was always the last one to school. Our store was popular after school! Grandpa and Grandma made sure there was plenty of candy and ice cream at the soda fountain.

The school building has been moved up the road. Mrs.Richardson has passed away. By the way, she lived at the house diagonally across from our store. The house was torn down 3 years ago.

On the other corner, was the Spencer/Tracy farm. I think it was sheep that pastured next to Butternut Creek. Today, owned by the same family, it is a very large car dealership. Butternut Creek has a culvert over it...Changes.

My home and store are in the same building. My Mom and Dad worked side by side in the store; raising their 4 daughters, "on the store counter". Dad died in 1970. Mom in 1996...Changes.

Today, the store is my canvas for all thing Primitive. I make my dolls and sell them sometimes. I never played with dolls while growing up...Now they are my WORKS-PLAY. Changes!

In The Beginning

2009-06-17T21:21:00.000-04:00

Just where do I begin with a blog? What's it going to be about? Is it all about me.... for you?

Are blogs selfish? Are blogs giving? I think both.

Welcome to my world...the world of Butternut Creek!