The Burlap Owl Primitives

~ My Little Peep ~

2012-01-22T08:44:00.000-08:00

Throughout everyday life, it's always good to know that there is someone there beside you cheering you on...I'm so lucky to have my little cheerleader with me everyday. She is always near me and greets me every morning when I open my bedroom door...I always look forward to hearing the pitter patter of little feet running down the hallway and purrs and meows to start my day. She is also on my lap every night making it hard to finish projects...so I changed my routine... Everyone who has a little furry friend knows the value of life that they bring...Their hearts are big and pure and all we have to do is show up to win their affection... Hug your little sweetie today because they would hug you everyday if they could...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Homebody ~

2012-01-20T17:26:00.000-08:00

Just here at home with lots of ideas and little time left before the February show...busy, busy busy!! I'll have a few pics soon of the goodes that will be going with me to Virginia... Home is nice.

Take Care,

Tina

~ Clever ~

2012-01-17T09:06:00.000-08:00

Isn't this the sweetest and cleverest pic ever??!! ... It just proves when you find yourself in situations like this...just sit still and be quiet! LOL

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile~

2012-01-14T19:42:00.000-08:00

... Don't forget to check out Early Work Mercantile...

~ Pick, Cut, and Dry ~

2012-01-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

I had a great "down time" during Christmas and began recharging the old battery... Sometimes it's very hard to get motivated and moving again while recharging but I finally decided last week that if I applied myself and started immediately... I could make the "Winter in the Valley" show in February... So I committed to it and have kicked everything into high gear now... I think at times I have slipped into auto-pilot these last few days...cutting and sewing in my sleep! As always, I keep adding new ideas on my list, making things more complicated ...I just hope it all comes together and gets finished on time! Today we had a nice sunny and warm day so the drying rack was pulled out and loaded down... now it's onto the next step!!

***

My color palette again this year is going to be shades of brown and blue...I have fallen in love with this color combination and can't seem to pull myself away from it...If I ever find the time, I want to make a brown and blue quilt...or two. Right now, I just keep collecting more and more shades of brown and blue for colonial and early doll dresses...a wonderful job!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Winter Mantel ~

2012-01-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

For me, this time of the year always moves at a snails pace...It is a transition period when everything looks dull and bland but you begin to hear the little birds chirping outside... I hear little wrens in the woods and the blue jay family has returned to eat up my cat food on the deck...

or, I should say, "yard kitty's" food...the sweet outside cat that came with our house... We have adopted her into our family and love her dearly...I worry about her constantly, but that's another blog...soon!

***

The mantel is still decked out for winter and I finally have the picture that I have been waiting patiently to purchase for years...It is now my winter mantel decoration and fills in for Mr. Washington who usually holds that very spot.

Take Care,

Tina

~ Wisdom ~

2012-01-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

Thank you Miss Piggy!

~ An Early New Year ~

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

I just want to take a few minutes to wish you all a Happy New Year and to thank you for the cheer that you bring to my life everyday...I have a computer routine that I follow faithfully and seeing your comments on my postings warms my heart... I also want to thank you for visiting my blog during my "dry spells" when the words just won't flow... I hate to admit it but there have been plenty of them this last year!!

***

Please don't forget to check out all of our new "olde goodes" listed on Early Work Mercantile...Browsing through old fashioned wares is a wonderful way to start your new year off on the right foot!

***

I'm looking forward to a wonderful traditional supper later...Lots of cabbage, blackeye peas and cornbread for luck and prosperity in the new year ahead... Wishing you The Best Year Ever full of happiness and good fortune!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Etsy~

2011-12-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

It's rabbit season!! I just listed a small group of rabbits in my Etsy shop...They all need a loving home... Please drop over and take a look if you get a chance...

~ Spring is not that far away! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Winters Read ~

2011-12-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

Today was very windy and wet as a cold front moved through the area...It was a wonderful day for a cup of coffee, a book and a fire in the fireplace. I got this great book for Christmas and being a colonial era (and George) addict ... It has been drooled upon literally for the last few days...until I said "Heck with it" and made time to read a little ...Judging by it's size though , it'll probably run into the spring...it's a thick book!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Post Christmas Post~

2011-12-26T08:10:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas...and soon another year will be over with too ...My how time flies...This is always a time to reflect for me, about the current year and the dreams and plans for the one to come. I have learned that dwelling on regrets of the past is a losing battle...You can never have a re-do ...

***

However, the new year is coming, fresh and new and it never hurts to dream big...When your dreams are big, you are open to all of the opportunities that may come your way...Your perspective is clear and your passion to achieve big is stronger...When and if it comes, you are ready for it... and the answer will always be "Yes" without hesitation...So dream big this new year...and don't look back!!

***

~ Wishing you the Best ~

Take Care,
Tina

~Merry Christmas ~

2011-12-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

It's so hard to believe that Christmas Day is almost here...The last couple of weeks have been so busy and today was spent gathering last minute gifts and groceries... I have more wrapping and cooking to look forward too now ...yeah!...I mean, whew! I hope you all are a little further ahead than I...

***

Thank you all so much for reading my blog throughout the year...and especially for your kindness...It has been a wonderful year and I have been so blest to meet many new friends at shows and over the Internet... Thank you all for stopping by my booth or sending me a quick email... Thank you for just being there!

***

I will be taking the next few days off to relax and enjoy my family and my cats...Time to refresh and refuel for the upcoming new year... Please check back for updates soon ...I can only sit still for so long!!

~ Have a very Merry Christmas! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Sugarplums and Candy Canes ~

2011-12-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well, it's time to take a big sigh and relax for a short while. I have been busy cleaning, shopping, wrapping and decorating...oh and baking. After writing this, I'm wondering if this is really so relaxing!! The house is all decked out for Christmas now and I have been running around like a little elf taking pictures. I'll be posting some of them on my picturetrail in the next few days...

***

A nightly ritual now is shooing the kitties from underneath the tree. Everyone wants to curl up and go to sleep there. We hear bulbs hitting the floor and packages moving around...occasionally a little face pops out like above and gets to stay...Who has the heart to say no? Yep, they get away with murder!

Take Care,

Tina

Early Work Mercantile

2011-12-14T20:01:00.000-08:00

Just listed on Early Work Mercantile...Be sure to stop by and see all of our new listitngs!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Another Update!!! ~

2011-12-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

I just listed another batch of primitive goodes on Etsy...My supply is dwindling and these gals and guys desperately need a home ...They are very simple and primitive dolls...great for the wynter season...

***

Thank you all so much for checking out my last update yesterday...I really appreciate it!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Etsy Update ~

2011-12-07T14:01:00.000-08:00

I just added a few winter goodes to my Etsy site...Please take a look if you get a chance...Everyone in the basket needs a loving home...More listings coming soon...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Day of Extreme Fun ~

2011-12-06T17:12:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of the most funnest day I have had in a long time!! I love to shop for antiques, primitives and bargains and I love to romanticize about living in an old colonial house or log cabin...just a fantasy, of course...Last Thursday, I got to do both and it was sooo much fun...As I said in an earlier post, mama and I spent the whole day in the upper Shenandoah Valley...It was an historical area that she had seen on a trip to look for a cow...of all things...

***

I got some wonderful photos of my dream homes and we even found an old covered bridge...I didn't know Virginia had any of those... It was so much fun and I plan to go back in the Spring after I save my money...I'll have to post my bargains soon...they're great!!

Take Care,

Tina

~Ole Christmas Show 2011~

2011-12-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

I just got home today from a wonderful Christmas show in Va...Met some new friends and got caught up with the old ones ...I had such a great time...I didn't want to come home!! Mama and I went antique shopping in the upper Shenandoah Valley a few times and I got some wonderful pics to show ...There were so many beautiful old log cabins dotting the roads and the fields...There were also a few great deals that I found!! I have plenty of blogging to do but right now...I'm exhausted!!

***

I'll be listing some new dolls on Etsy sometime this week...I only have a Santa or two left and a few snowmen but they all need loving homes...Please check back for my update!!...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Off We Go ~

2011-11-29T17:32:00.000-08:00

It has been a hectic and fast blur these few days...Everything is falling into place and tables and chairs are full of dolls and boxes of dolls all ready to pack into the car soon ...It will be time to leave for the show... My nerves are beginning to take hold...This is a new show for me so wish me luck...If you are in the area, please drop by and say "hello"... info for the show is on the sidebar...

***

I'll be posting pictures when I return...I gotta remember the camera though!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ All is Well ~

2011-11-27T16:28:00.000-08:00

I just returned yesterday from a very relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday with my family in Virginia...It's so nice to go home and to talk of old times and make new memories...Mama and I pile up in the car and head towards Staunton for some of the best primitive shops in the Shenandoah Valley...at least, they are tops on my list!! I love going in that direction because of all of the log cabins in the little towns along the way ...how I would love to live in one ...One day, maybe...It will always be on my dream list...

***

In a matter of a few days, I will be headed back to Virginia for a show on December 2 and 3...I feel discombobulated right now...and the house is a mess!!! I will be getting every thing decked out for Christmas when I return... I'm really in a Christmas mood right now ... As I get older, I like the simple early look at Christmastime... It's refreshing and less work!! So I'll be working on bringing out the greens and reds for the season...I'll be posting some new updated photos on my picturetrail soon...

***

Take Care,

Tina

~ Fleeting Fall ~ Early Winter? ~

2011-11-16T17:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am thoroughly confused right now! While I am fully in the Christmas mood and there are Santas and snowpeople all over my house...in bits and pieces, of course! I have an assembly line formed for my upcoming show in a couple of weeks...At the same time, I am starting to notice that it is actually beginning to look more like winter now...but there's still a hint of Fall outside. Things will change even more tomorrow after a strong coldfront hurries through overnight...I just don't know which side I'm on right now...Fall...or Winter?

***

I took a few photos in the backyard the other day...since then things have changed and it's even more bare looking outside... a few of my pumpkins are outside now and they pop where they used to blend...I hope to be looking at them throughout the winter...just like I did last year... I really love my pumpkins...I'll probably bring them all back in!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Log Cabin Christmas ~

2011-11-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

Please don't forget that our second annual Log Cabin Christmas is in full swing on Early Work Mercantile... There's so many primitive goodies to take a look at over there!!

~ Hope to see you there! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Update! ~

2011-11-07T08:12:00.000-08:00

A few new dolls just listed on Etsy ...Please take a look if you get a chance... an Etsy button is on the sidebar...

Take Care,

Tina

~ New Listings ~

2011-10-31T09:38:00.000-07:00

I have just added a few festive primitives to my Etsy shop...I have to warn, I'm in a very extremely primitive mood this year...Beware!!! Here is a couple of examples for you...much more to come in the future...

Please check them out(sidebar button) and check back often...Tis the season!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Christmas is Coming ~

2011-10-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

I know, we haven't had Halloween yet...but Halloween for me begins in July!! For the last month or so my home has been looking more and more like Christmas...My colonial Christmas CDs have been played everyday and I have even been into the eggnog...maybe too much ...I love it when eggnog arrives in the grocery store!! Next week I'll be adding a few festive goodes to my Etsy shop...so please be on the lookout...Ho, ho, ho, ...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Sew Busy ~

2011-10-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

My how time is flying by! ... I've been working hard trying to get a good variety of primitives together for an upcoming show in early December... I'll be making a few Santas, snowmen...and girls, and stockings for my Etsy shop...My goal is to have them there before Halloween... ~ Please keep checking back ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Fall Snapshot ~

2011-10-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

Today was a very beautiful and overcast day...a day to soak in the fading blooms and steady falling leaves... It was nice to spend a little time watching the squirrels sit in the oak trees and eat their fill of acorns and scurry around the yard to bury a winters supply... The yard is swarming with blue jays, wrens and doves this time of year all finding an ample supply of seed and suet at our feeders...These are snapshots that last for a few short minutes but stick with you for many years... The wonders of nature are a fragile and fleeting joy...Taking time to notice them makes life richer ...

Take Care,

Tina

~ The Mice will Play ~

2011-10-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Take a look at these neat little guys that I found at Michaels the other day...They look so cute playing on the stairs...and they are Orkin proof too!!

***

A weight has been lifted...Orkin came today and now I can get upstairs to sew over the weekend...Yippee!! I'm hoping that this will terminate those little vampires once and for all!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Comforts of Home ~

2011-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my blog lately...it's not something that I mean to do ...but I always get sidetracked and it's the little things that consume my time the most...I am still dealing with my "home invasion" problems and the Orkin man will be here again on Friday for another flea "bombing"...I think that this problem is especially bad this year because of the tropical systems and the humidity that we have been experiencing here ...I just hate the little mites and they have made me a prisoner in my own house...plus the cats need a break too...then there was the car problems, all time consuming...and tiring...you get the picture...

***

I have been working on my primitive wynter and Christmas items at a faster pace this year too...I'm going to be in a show in Va around the beginning of December... the information for that will be posted here asap...I think it will be great because I haven't been in an old fashioned Christmas mood for the past few years... The music,the people and the Christmas cheer will do my heart good this year...Plus shopping for primitives always makes me happy!!

***

I probably shouldn't have released all of my negative energy on my blog today...but sometimes that's what blogs are for...therapy!! Rest assured, I will be back soon with a renewed energy and resolve...because I know me!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Camouflage ~

2011-09-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

I was trying to find my precious little kitty the other day...I finally found her secret hiding place... Now I know where to look when she's had enough hugs and sugars and tries to escape my clutches!

***

I am just getting ready to sit down tomorrow and start cutting out Santas!! Never mind it has been something that I have said I would do every day this week!!...I had to have the Orkin man come today and do a heavy duty flea spray over the entire house...so that I can go safely to the attic to sew!!

***

We have three indoor cats that never go outside...yet, every year we are bombarded with fleas and they get out of control before Orkin can get here...This is a very buggy state, I have found out. My mama lives in VA and has indoor and outdoor cats. While there, I didn't see one of them scratch a flea!! ...I come home and mine are scratching in unison, all the time...At least now, my kitties can have a break...and I can go upstairs without being attacked...Orkin is great!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ The Great Pumpkin Collector ~

2011-09-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful overcast Fall day here ...I brought back a huge pile of pumpkins and gourds from my trip to VA...They are all arranged now in bowls and on the mantel...I love Fall!! I also found this wonderful glass candy dish(mantel) at an antiques shop in VA...I think the guy called it amethyst glass...it's a beautiful solid black...He had a table set up in his shop that looked like Martha Stewart had just visited...I wish I could have picked out a couple more pieces...however, I was good...but I have been secretly devising a way to get another piece on my mantel since then...

***

Tomorrow(24th) happens to be my birthday...and I have already asked my mama to go back to the shop and pick up another piece for me...I have a feeling that she will just consider it a birthday gift...waaa-haaa-haaa!! .....Happy Birthday to me!!

***

I can't believe that it's almost time to switch gears and start Winter and Christmas goodies...The calendar may say Fall...but in this business, you have to plan ahead...for me it means, "Start the Santas!!"... I have some great ideas and can't wait to get them cut out and sewn!! Check Back Often...they're a coming!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Primitive Goodes Listed ~

2011-09-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

Whew!! ... I just finished posting a lot of primitive Fall goodes on Etsy...There will be a few more coming soon...Please check them out if you get a chance...

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Day Notforgotten ~

2011-09-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

I'm back and more than ready to take a nap!! Everything went great and was so much fun...but I gotta say...I'm exhausted! We had great weather and a good turn out and it was so great to see old friends and meet many new ones. Lori is the bestest hostess and I'm so glad that she brings us all together every year...thanks Lori for all the fun!!

***

I snapped a few pictures of my booth...I'm so glad that I remembered to bring my camera...I was very scatter-brained that day and had a bad habit of forgetting where I laid things down!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-09-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to stop by and see all of our new primitive wares and early handmade goodes...It's the last installment of our "Settler's Harvest" event...Fall is in the air...and Early Work Mercantile!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Notforgotten Farm Show ~

2011-09-13T17:11:00.000-07:00

I am so very exhausted at this point...I wouldn't say that I am a procrastinator, but it always takes awhile for me to get the old mind and body moving as one...I have been pacing myself for this show and will be adding the finishing touches and price tags to everything tomorrow...Then it's time to stuff and pack everything in the van for the trip to VA for the show...This will be my third show and going to Lori's is always so much fun...She is a wonderful sweet person and knows how to put on a wonderful primitive show...Love it!!!

***

Please drop by and say hello if you are in the area...

I'll try to have some pics to show next week...hopefully, I won't forget the camera!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Just Listed ~

2011-08-31T12:56:00.000-07:00

I just listed these two primitive colonial pumpkin dolls on Etsy... It was on my "To Do" list...and I finally got it done!! Please take a look if you can...there's a button on my sidebar...it's instant...time travel...

***

I also added a picture of my baby...She is tired from playing all morning with the little hamster (in the background)...She is not listed on Etsy...

Thanks so much...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Memories of Irene ~

2011-08-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to have the threat of Irene finally over. It was the only thing on my mind last week and every news report that I watched emphasized it's coming...It was forecast as a bad one...and it was!! We took a direct hit here in NC along the coastline...I live about 90 minutes from the Crystal Coast and Morehead City NC...they took the brunt of the storm but we still received hurricane force winds this far inland...The eyewall bordered our county as it went by intensifying our winds and rain...We also got huge return winds once the eye itself passed us...pushing already stressed trees to their limit...To make matters worse, dry air pockets split the storm twice and intensified the winds and longevity of the storm...We actually had it for about 14 long hours and it seemed like it would never end!! Rainfall totals were around 14 inches in this area and the winds were 35 mph sustained with gusts between 60-85 mph... It demolished so many homes and businesses along the coast... We are still finding out how bad it was there...

***

We were so extremely lucky not to have any tree or house damage once all was said and done...I truly think that is a blessing and a miracle...my prayers were answered. My neighbor wasn't so lucky, she had three large trees come down...one on top of her car...It's still buried under the tree in the picture above... I feel as if a weight was lifted from my shoulders...Irene is now history...History that I don't think NC (or I ) will ever forget...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Pins and Needles ~

2011-08-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

I love pins and needles...I always love to sew a little something everyday...But the pins and needles now are all connected to Hurricane Irene who has a target somewhere here on our North Carolina coast... We are right in the cone of uncertainty but I'm hoping that Irene will continue to veer east... Luckily, the track is still unpredictable so there is that little glimmer of hope...We will feel some weather from her and hopefully it will be non-destructive to our area...Please say a little prayer for us on Friday and Saturday...They are calling for a gorgeous day on Sunday...the calm after the storm...

***

I love these sunny faces and hope they make it through the storm...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Pumpkinhead Harvest ~

2011-08-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

I have just finished and added a few more pumpkinheads to my Etsy shop...it really looks nice and orangey over there! Please take a look if you get a chance...You can use my button on the sidebar... Time is flying by so fast...

***

We are rapidly approaching September...yikes!

I have a show I'm preparing for and my birthday is coming up...I'm at that delicate age where I would rather just skip the annual birthday and pick an age...say, like 35 forever!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Primitive Witches~

2011-08-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

I have been very busy lately and have made a few more witches for Etsy... These witches are extremely primitive and larger than my earlier witches... Please hitch up your skirt, hop on your broom and take a look....or...you could just click on the Etsy link on my sidebar!!

~ Thanks for stopping by! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-08-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

New Updates...Don't forget to check them out before they are all gone!!

Thanks,

Take Care,

Tina

~ Primitive Pumpkinheads ~

2011-08-08T13:21:00.000-07:00

I just added a few new pumpkinheads on Etsy...I'm in such a Hallowe'en mood right now...I have lots of other dolls that I should be working on...I have a show coming up soon...but I keep putting them aside for pumpkins and witches...extra pumpkins and witches!!

***

I hope you will take a quick look...my Etsy page is so nice and Autumnal looking!!

...click the link on my sidebar to get there!

Thanks!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Recent Etsy Update ~

2011-08-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

I've been busy, busy lately and it feels like I'm running on fumes at this point! I hate to keep reminding myself that Lori's show at Notforgotten Farm will be here before I know it...yikes...I have to get busier!! There's just not enough minutes in the day to do all that I would like to do...then just throw in life...whew!! I have managed though to update Etsy with some wonderfully primitive Fall items...all drab and grungy and brown-ish!

Drab, Grungy and Brown are my favorite words this year...Please take a look...My Etsy button can be found on my sidebar...

~ Thanks so much for stopping by ~

Take Care,

Tina

Blackbirds and Tomato Soup

2011-07-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today was another scorcher...around 100 degrees and going outside felt like stepping into an oven. We like to keep our two birdbaths full of fresh water on these days because the birds walk around outside panting...not a pretty sight! Today I drew a flock of blackbirds into the yard with some old bread and they all had to stop by the birdbath to wet their whistle before flying away...I've noticed when these "flocks" of blackbirds come by...they seem to be a mixture of different types. There's cowbirds, grackles, starlings and many other blackbirds that I would need my bird book to identify...It just looks a little odd that they are composed of such a variety and not just one type...They are all the scavenger-types and I've said many a swear word in their direction when they steal my songbirds seed...However, today I was full of compassion because of the heat index...I guess birds of a feather flock together sums this up nicely!

***

The tomato soup coneflowers are beginning to open up...each plant varies in color though...One of them seems more orange and the other seems more red but they are coneflowers so I love them no matter what!!

Finally, I've been working on some more pumpkinheads for Etsy and my website...please be watching and I'll let you know when they are posted...Thanks so much for checking them out...and adopting them into your homes...

Until next time...

Take Care,

Tina

~ New Pumpkinheads ~

2011-07-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

I just listed a new pumpkinhead doll on Etsy...I had a few other new items just listed but they have sold...so I'll make some more...

Please check out this quaint little pumpkinhead if you get a chance ...More listings coming soon...

~ Don't forget my Etsy button is on the sidebar ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ My Pretties ~

2011-07-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

I don't care what the calendar says...Fall is knocking at our door... The sun is changing position in the sky and casting shadows that couldn't be found a month ago...The summer flowers that I planted in late May are visibly nearing the end of their life cycles and the late summer/early fall flowers are beginning to take center stage...Our first crop of sunflowers is looking great...I have to credit their care to my boy, Jacob...He's busy but in his spare time he dutifully waters them...and keeps them alive!!! The oppressive heat lately has kept me inside with the fan...It has been really bad here...

***

I did make a trip to Lowes over the weekend...I go there too much... The place was like a sauna and I was a drippy mess while waiting in line...Anyway, I found a tomato soup coneflower and brought a couple home with me...No, they weren't on my list...I do make lists with good intentions but I always seem to get extra things ...Ahm, they bloom the shade of tomato soup...really...I've got a before photo and will have to let you see the tomato soup color when they bloom!!

~ Stay Cool ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ New Witches ~

2011-07-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

Please check out my latest cabin witches just posted on Etsy...They are so grungy and primitive!!

Take Care,

Tina

Early Work Mercantile

2011-07-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

Please stop by and check out my Early Simple Wytch on Early Work Mercantile ...Sometimes simple is best!

~ Thanks ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ My Witchy Soul ~

2011-07-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...time to dream of the beautiful colors and crispness of Fall...while sweltering in the oppressive heatwave we are going through!!...It's also time to dream and create witches of all different sizes, shapes and colors...When witch season comes around, my house is scattered with doll bodies and acrylic paint containers ...It's a season that I love, sorta like those who love baseball or football seasons... It's easy to get all wrapped up in it until it's over then move along into the next season... and...if you live here, that would be Santa Claus season!!!

~ Stay cool my friends ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Summer ETSY Sale ~

2011-07-06T09:47:00.000-07:00

Please check out my Summer Sale at my Etsy shop...All dolls have been marked down...Please check them out...They are OOAKS !!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Happy July Fourth! ~

2011-07-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

~ Long May She Wave !! ~

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-07-01T08:03:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to check out all the "new" primitive goodes and early wares just listed!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Words of Inspiration ~

2011-06-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

I am a collector(and sometimes hoarder) of a few things...I have never met a piece of fabric that I didn't like...My mind is always trying to find just the right place to use it or it's filed in the "to do later" pile...Nevertheless, I hold onto it...The same is true with quilt and primitive magazines...I never pass the newsstand at the grocery store without stopping to look for the latest issue...Magazines have always drawn me into their web with their light and fun reading...I gain a small amount of knowledge through their articles but my mind races with imagination when I see the pictures...It's sort of a high...What makes it worse now is the outcropping of new primitive magazines...I have to have them ...and usually return home with a stack to browse through later...Not to mention the thrill of finding an issue in the mailbox!!...Oh, and I get all my recipes from Paula Deen...Of course, a lot of her recipes are dishes that I grew up on...They bring back fond memories and you can't beat that good old southern cooking!...Viva la magazine!!!

Until next time...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Summer's Staples ~

2011-06-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

Nothing says summer to me more than a traditional red geranium...No summer therefore is complete without a few on the front stoop and a few on the back deck!!

***

I hope you are enjoying these lazy days...They just seem to run into each other...So much so, that I actually forget what day it is sometimes!! However, I do remember a fall deadline that I must meet...The only show that I do every year is Lori's at Notforgotten Farm...Time to pick up the pace and start dreaming of witches and pumpkins!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Ta- Da ~

2011-06-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

I finally got a quilt made, it took a couple of years!! It's a summer quilt with no batting and I had to start with lap size to be safe...but it's finished... I gave it to my baby sister as a housewarming gift. She will be moving into her first home this summer and I know she has been collecting appliances and gadgets and I didn't want to buy something that she already has in her stash...So I used my stash...that happens to grow everyday...I can't help it...I'm a fabric-aholic!!!

***

It has been so hot and humid here and our air conditioner is blowing hot air...perfect timing!! I really don't know how the pioneers made it back then without Orkin or air conditioning!!

~ Stay Cool My Friends ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Birds and Blooms ~

2011-06-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

I love this photo that I was fortunate to get today...The little wren family actually waited while I ran upstairs to grab the camera!!...We had a cute little pair of wrens frequent the cat food during the winter and spring and look what has happened...babies!! Now every morning (like clockwork) this little family descends upon the cat food on the deck...My cat food plate is a magnet for every kind of creature...if you have noticed!! You can see them flying from the woods and everybody makes a beeline for their breakfast...These little birds pack a powerful fussy voice and sometimes it gets a little loud out there...but they are such little busybodies and I always like to watch them visit...

***

At Lowes I found this new Rocky Mountain coneflower...It's not a "mutt" like my other ones(mentioned in earlier post) ~ so I hope it makes it...I liked it's name plus it's a coneflower...that's enough to make me buy it!!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ R and R ~

2011-06-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

Last week was one of those weeks of going here, going there and doing this and doing that at a breakneck speed...Things have been very busy and very stressful...To add to all of this, my daughter (and baby) will be graduating from high school on Friday...tangent begins: It will be so strange next year to sleep a little longer every morning...I will truly miss having to get up at 6 a.m. and I'll be lost for awhile-end...This week will be spent getting things in order for the family's arrival...But I'll sneak a few minutes for myself here and there...

***

Today was spent in the attic doing patchwork...It was so relaxing to play around with the different colors and patterns... tangent begins: (We had a new JoAnns open here about a week ago...Boy, have I become a snob...I have had to do all my fabric shopping on the Internet since moving here and I have developed a strong fondness for Civil War fabrics from Judie Rothermel...Now, I turn my nose up at JoAnn's fabrics and come back home and get on the Internet!!! I never would've thought this of me, I used to be obsessed with JoAnns!!)-ends ... Anyway, piecing my Civil War fabrics was so calming...I can't wait to get back in the attic...soon!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Summer Ghost T.V. ~

2011-06-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

I must confess, I am a couch potato ghost hunter...I will sit up and watch any and all ghost related shows...I just love the history behind the ghosts and the mystery about why they are still here with us...When I was around six, I had a few experiences with a nanny ghost until my parents placed Bibles throughout our house and under my bed...Things got quiet after that and I no longer talked to shadows in the middle of the night thinking that it was my mama checking in on me ...We lived in the country and nighttime was pitch black and we were isolated back then... Things were happening that we couldn't explain...Maybe this is why I am so fascinated with this unknown world...We all have some connection and some destination...

***

Tonight on SyFy (9pm), they are debuting a new ghost show called "Haunted Collector"... I discovered it in the listings and can't wait to see it!!!...This one features a demonologist, Frank Zappis...it looks good...Gotta go get ready for a much awaited new summer ghost show!!

Until next time...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-05-31T20:08:00.000-07:00

My oh my, tis June already?...Please don't forget to check out our new artists and primitive handmades on Early Work Mercantile...Don't be late...Be the earlybird!!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Remember Them ~

2011-05-28T17:48:00.000-07:00

Shake a Veteran's hand and Thank him or her for all of the Sacrifices that they have made ...So that we may have it all...

***

Remember those who have fallen because Freedom is never Free...

Wishing you a safe Memorial Day weekend ...

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Summers Garden ~

2011-05-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

This year there looks to be a strong possibility of actually having coneflowers alive in the garden...Along with geraniums, nothing makes me think of summer more than the beautiful coneflower. Since moving here to NC about four years ago, I have never been lucky in finding the right spot for them to grow and thrive...I had been buying plants from Lowe's and had been treating them like babies...just to see them wither and die. While at Mama's this Spring, she slipped me some of her rogue plants...They are doing sooo much better than the store bought ones...You know how they always say that a mutt is a better dog than a pure breed? Well, I think that this holds true for plants too!!

***

My dream is to one day have a primitive herb garden...full of bee balm, yarrow, lavender, thyme and rosemary...flanked of course by those lovely coneflowers...Hopefully, I can find a good spot in the yard for next summer...This summer I'll be watching these...and taking plenty of pictures!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Day to Chillax ~

2011-05-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness it's Friday!! Since my last post (above), I have had an additional flat tire (on a different car) and my washer died on me in the middle of a full load of towels!!...I feel exhausted at this point...mentally, emotionally and physically!! It seems as if I have spent days on the phone and at the FAX machine and on the road for repairs...These are all things that can be managed...I just hate them all happening so close to each other...and to me!!...I am a Libra, I like balance...

***

Today, I made it to the attic to work on a new quilt idea...I am feeling a little more comfortable with my rotary cutter and ruler now...Since I'm not a math person, all the fractions and precise cuttings drive me nuts and sometimes scare me away ...that's why I thought I would make my own simple quilt ...my own recipe!! I have picked out the colors...blue, cream and pink and the look..."old-timey"...Now to just get all the seams to match up!!

***

Saturday I'll be going to the new JoAnn's store that just opened up here!! I am so happy that they finally decided to bring one here...Boy, have I missed JoAnn's... It was a bad habit that I couldn't break at one time...I was an addict...time to fall off the bandwagon!!

~ Wishing you a great and relaxing weekend! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Little Peaceful Dove ~

2011-05-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

It looks like another hectic week is in store for moi...While in church on Sunday, a thief broke into our car...smashed the window and slashed a tire...and grabbed my daughter's purse...It seems that no matter how often you tell them(kids), they still make little mistakes...Leaving the purse in view was a costly mistake! Anyhoo, it's now time to deal with the insurance company and car repairs... I feel tired already!!

***

Oh, to be a little dove...quiet, peaceful and serene....without the predators, of course!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile~

2011-05-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to drop by and see our new artists and wonderful "new" olde goodes at Early Work Mercantile...Bring a cup of coffe or tea with you because I know you'll want to stay awhile!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Take a Look ~

2011-05-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Well, the room was finished a few days ago. Amazingly, it only took about an hour and a half...Except for getting hollered at a few times for dripping paint on the carpet...it all went by smoothly...I really like the new color. I'm a primitive magazine lover and I've noticed this shade of green all over the place...I have never been one who is drawn to this color but it made so many primitive rooms pop that I had to give it a try!!...I like it!!

***

Tomorrow, I will attempt to take on my daughter's room...I absolutely will not show before pictures of this room...you would see why the word "condemn" comes to my mind. I will, however show the after shots...they are safe... A freshly painted room makes everything look better!! I really hope she doesn't read this!!LOL

***

I have been here... but away these last few days because I am trying to figure out a new computer...I have fallen into a comfortable way of doing things with the other and this one has turned my world upside down!! I am trying to adapt...I think I learned how to crop and resize today...we'll see when I post this!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Meow ~

2011-05-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

Look what has found me now...I call him "Nelson", only because my high school gym teacher's name was Nelson...Fox!! Nelson has been a frequent visitor lately. I only used to see him at dusk...back then he was just a shadowy figure that you had to squint to see because he's very fast!...Flash forward, Now he just walks right up on the deck and eats all the leftover cat food that he wants anytime during the day...Sometimes I see him in the morning or sometimes at suppertime . I think he feels comfortable enough now to just do whatever he wants!...He is quick as lightening though if he hears any little noise...So I don't think he is a danger to any of us...I'm beginning to think I live in a wildlife reserve!!

Until next time...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Tape First...Paint Second~

2011-05-04T09:09:00.000-07:00

A new week...a new project...woohoo! Just when I think that my cup runneth over...something new "to do" comes along...a paint project...This is the first room I want to paint this summer. The second is my daughter's room but it looks more like it should be "condemned" than painted at this point! She is a sweetie...but boy is she messy!! Anyway, her room is next in line...

***

I wanted to show the "before" shots...only because I watch way too many renovation shows and this is how you do it...kidding!! I'll be showing the "after" shots in a few days...Oh, this is my son's room...he's a neat freak so everything is primed and waiting for my help!! He also loves primitives and his room really looks great once everything is in place...Check back for an update soon...Until next post...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Prom Weekend ~

2011-05-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

Boy do I feel old now?...Yes!!! ...My baby girl just went to her senior prom over the weekend with her handsome date, Cole... I can remember my own prom like it was yesterday...It leaves me wondering ...How and when did she (and my little boy, not shown) grow up?...I don't think I will ever find the answer to those two questions... so I don't think about it... I just enjoy every day that I have with them...

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile~

2011-05-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to drop by and see our new listings and great new artitsts on Early Work Mercantile...Grab a cup of coffee or tea and mosey on over there and see some wonderful primitive wares and handmade goodes ...before they find a new home!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Farmhouse Doll ~

2011-04-29T13:24:00.000-07:00

If you are like me...you love anything that looks like it was discovered in a log cabin or an old farmhouse... I wanted to make a doll that looked like she was found in an old estate sale...A cherished item that a sweet little old lady held onto her entire lifetime... When I look at "May", this is what I see...Love Her!!

***

Please check out "May" and a few new doll listings that I just added on Etsy...

Thanks so much!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Just Like Chocolate ~

2011-04-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

If you are obsessed with log cabins like I am...this tiny little "don't blink" town of Fairfield, Virginia will be equivalent to eating a dark chocolate Dove bar...pure heaven!!! I don't know how many times in my life I have been through this sweet little town...Whizzing by these olde cabins and leaving them in a blur...What was I thinking?! Here's a dirty little secret of mine, I used to love the Victorian era!! Fine china and lace doilies were all I wanted...I was young and easily influenced back then so please don't hold it against me...Now, I see the beauty of pewter, redware and treen...and these beautiful pieces of history...

***

While in Virginia this time, headed to Staunton on the back roads...I was armed with my camera!! I rode shotgun and mama had to pull to the side of the road for me to get these shots... The day was a blast...hitting the antique malls and primitive stores in the area and finally getting these photos...I would love to do it all over again... My heart is still in Virginia!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Happy Easter ~

2011-04-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

~ Wishing you a joyous day! ~

~ Little Kids at Play ~

2011-04-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

I went to Virginia this week for a little visit to see my family...My sister and my parents have joined together to raise dairy cows, chickens and goats. My parents provide the land and my sister raises and sells the animals... She always finds something new to bring home and raise!

***

This time of year, their farm is overflowing with babies but I especially like the sweet little goats ...I think, of all animals, goats are the most vulnerable...They are so friendly and trusting and almost innocent in a way...So when they are babies, they are even more sweet and innocent and they have the cutest little lips too!! I had to stand and snap pictures for a long time just to get these...Most of the pictures were too blurry and had to be deleted!!... All this excess energy comes from a full belly!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile~

2011-04-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

Please meet "Lisabeth"...

New listings and some new artists too...

Please stop by for a visit!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Usefulness ~

2011-04-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

This bowl of pumpkins made it through Christmas and into spring!! I have been determined to keep them to look at for as long as possible because I just never tired of seeing them...However, we all started noticing little spots and scratches appearing on them recently so they were then inspected on a daily basis...Finally, it was apparent that they had to go...they weren't rotten ...just shriveled-ly looking!!

***

A day or two went by and the bowl sat empty...We were desperately searching for something to put in it because it fit the top of the trunk perfectly and I really wanted to keep the bowl in the same spot...Lo and behold, the cats discovered it and the rest is history...Typical cat-nature is to share new discoveries...Once one discovers a new place~everybody wants to try it out...

***

I'm happy to say that the bowl is hardly empty now...Izzy(white) takes the morning shift and you can find Muggins squeezed in it during the evenings... They make great decorations!...

~ Case solved-Onto the next ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Ebay ~

2011-04-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

I'm trying Ebay once again...Please meet Jack and Dolly Rabbitson...You can find them each in a sweet little template sitting on Ebay...Please drop by and take a look at them...Don't forget to use my button on the sidebar to get there!!... They are so extremely primitive !!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Calmness~

2011-04-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

This morning we awoke to a powerful wind and a heavy rainfall...A strong cold front had been working it's way west to east... and being along the coast, we were it's last stop before drifting out to sea...I'm glad it lost some of its punch before reaching us!

***

Amazingly , the wind and the rain and distant thunder and lightening early this morning gave me a little quiet time to think of nothing ...and everything...Finding a quiet place to sit while storms rage on outside is always something that I do...Partly out of fear(I hate lightening) and partly to watch and listen...Ironically, it's very relaxing and clears away stress...

***

Thankfully the front eventually moved on and we were graced with a beautiful sunny but much cooler day...The birds came out chirping after the storm passed and the blue jays came by to finish off the cat food outside, as usual! ...My world is calm once again...

Take Care,

Tina

~ The Chair ~

2011-04-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

As they go down the assembly line, there are many different stops along the way...The Chair is at the end of the journey and this latest group is waiting for my approval...I can't let them go until I stare at them for awhile to see if I am inclined to add or subtract anything from them...It's a way I have developed to see them and their personalities at different times of the day....I noticed the value of The Chair one day when I had almost finished a doll and had run out of space for her downstairs...She was thrown in The Chair and as I looked at her the following day, I saw every little detail that I should have added ...with a different perspective...Since then The Chair has become a valuable asset...I highly recommend one!

***

Take Care,

Tina

p.s.-All of this power is going to my head!

~ More Etsy Listings~

2011-03-31T14:04:00.001-07:00

A lot was accomplished today...even though it seems as if I have been on the computer for 80 percent of it!! I did get a lot of new items listed on Etsy ... This has been on my "to do" list for the last several days... I had a lot of help with my photos,as you can see!...My little shadow is never too far behind...

***

Please take a quick look if you get a chance...Don't forget I have an Etsy button on my sidebar!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Cabin Fever ~

2011-03-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

I think I have finally come to the point of calling this an obsession!! I love, love, love, log cabins and have tried to base everything I make around them lately...Aren't they just beautiful? My dream would be to live in one ~one day ...It would have to be an authentic old chinked log cabin......no replicas!

***

... Since that's not going to happen( dose of reality)...I'm starting to collect them in miniature form...I just won the cabin with the red roof on ebay and got it in the mail today!! I'm gonna have to look for more!!

***

While searching for these little "that's the cabin I want to live in" old cabins, I made a discovery...

You can buy a real honest -to -goodness old historical log cabin skeleton...in pieces !! I never knew that you could buy a real old log cabin on ebay!!... until I began looking for the little ones...They are disassembled and rebuilt on your property...for a rather large sum of money, of course ...Alas, it keeps my dream alive...If nothing else, maybe one day I'll be able to buy one off of ebay!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Splash of Color ~

2011-03-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

We have been having unusually warm weather here lately...Today we got up to 82...I think the average this time of the year should be 60...brrr!! Anyway, I spent my day in the attic sewing a box full of dolls and it was actually a little toasty up there ... I have so many things and ideas that I would like to do but there never seems to be enough time in the day!! I think that the older you get...the more elusive Time gets!!

***

I did have a little time to wander outside and look at the bright beautiful colors we have planted ...They are so vibrant and fresh now and a little color goes a long way in this drab landscape...Hope you had a wonderful day !

~ Flowers are good for the soul... ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ Spring is Springing ~

2011-03-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

The first day of Spring here was very nice...We had a bright sunny day today but it started off a little chilly at first. I was torn between staying inside and stuffing some dolls or taking a break outside on the porch...Luckily, we are still free...so I did both!!

***

While I was outside, I thought I would find a few "signs" of Spring...I'm so happy to see my irises starting to pop through the soil. They were planted last Fall so I haven't actually seen them bloom yet... I know that they are hardy bulbs and sometimes the only signs of life at old abandoned houses...That's why I think that they will survive under my care...

***

I also managed to find this cute little fuzzy squirrel perched on a branch way up high...When they are not raiding my bird feeders, I see them running around digging up some of their buried treasures all over the yard... This one decided to scamper up a tree with his meal...They are cute little pests!! ~ I hope you had a wonderful and relaxing day just as I did! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~ New Postings ~

2011-03-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

Today was a very productive day... I even had time to list a few new items on Etsy!!

Please take a look if you get a chance...There's a button on my sidebar...Okay,..... Go look...........Now..........Yeah, now would be good..............Really, .......Go ahead!!

Until next time..........

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-03-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

Please don't forget to check us out!!

... Primitively Practical ...

2011-03-11T09:21:00.000-08:00

I have been busy lately creating a few pincushions...I think they are so primitively simple... and in their heyday they were a very practical piece to have at your side... Sewing was probably long and tedious back then and quite frankly, it was probably a chore (unlike today)...I'm sure that back in the old days these little things were thrown together with whatever one had on hand... Today, however, much thought can be put into choosing the right fabric and aging it to perfection... Either way, in the end you have a quaint and plain little piece of art that serves a purpose for the primitive lover and the primitive seamstress... I will be listing a few on my website soon along with some never before seen primitive wares...stay tuned!

Take Care,

Tina

~ More ~

2011-03-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

Today has been a dreary, rainy day and I managed to get a few things finished on my list...I usually make my list every morning with all the things that I'd like to get done...It has become a ritual now and I especially need one when I have to do errands!! I have learned the hard way that the old noggin is an old noggin and it's much better to write everything down!!

***

I listed a couple of new dolls on Etsy today...Please take a look if you get a chance...

Take Care,

Tina

... A New Listing Place...

2011-03-05T16:37:00.000-08:00

Well, time to mark another thing off my bucket list...I have had my Etsy account open and ready for listings for at least a year now...maybe longer....and...unfortunately I have mentioned it as a goal maybe way too much!! The great news is that I finally did something that was so easy!! What took so long?? I don't even know... Please take a look if you get a chance...I have a link on my sidebar to take you there... I want to get a few more items listed this week... so keep a weathered eye on the horizon, your ear on the ground, your nose to the grindstone...Okay, that one didn't fit but you get the picture!!!

Take Care,

Tina

... Butternut and Blue ...

2011-03-04T12:44:00.000-08:00

Doesn't this just conjure up a warm and happy feeling? I have finally succumbed to this wonderful combination and I can't get enough!! Today I have been gathering up pieces of fabric in these wonderful shades and getting geared up for a few small projects... I'm still recovering from my "flu-bug" but I'm getting back in the swing of things now ... All those orders and doll bodies (all in various stages of completion) will soon be wrapped up and complete... Folks, it has been one heck of a year thus far! ...

Take Care,

Tina

...Early Work Mercantile!! ...

2011-03-01T08:50:00.000-08:00

OMG...yes, I'm still here!! My postings have been getting few and far between lately. Not to mention, I was literally knocked out with a (very) wicked flu bug for the last five days!! I usually don't catch these "bugs" so naturally I caught the worst one... it was pretty bad!! I blame it on my husband...he brought it home from work!! LOL

***

~ Don't Forget to check out Early Work Mercantile !!! ~

Take Care,

Tina

...Honor... Respect...Virtue...

2011-02-20T17:38:00.000-08:00

Example, whether it be good or bad, has a powerful influence.

~George Washington~

~ Cat Food Bandit ~

2011-02-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

I happened to be walking by the back door the other morning and noticed the cats focused on something outside...Naturally, I had to look...I can't help it!! Man o' man was I shocked to see a raccoon on our deck eating cat food - in the morning!! I mean I know that the possums usually finish off the leftovers everyday after dark because I have caught them in the act more times than I can remember...I had no idea, however, that we had a cat food eating raccoon too!! According to what I feed cat food on a daily basis, the opossums, blue jays, wrens, and now raccoons should all "meow"!! The thing that is most disturbing though is that he was out in the morning...He's supposed to be a nocturnal creature, I thought...That's why I waited and watched him go back into the woods before I went out. I hope he's not rabid or anything...

You gotta feel a little sorry for these guys...He's hungry and the woods and fields are slowly turning into roads and developments... I'll feed anything that shows up...and a lot of creatures pop up out of the woods behind us...never a dull moment!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ A Furry Blessing ~

2011-02-16T17:15:00.000-08:00

This adorable little fuzzball has become so precious to me...She waits for me to open my bedroom door every morning and greets me with her tail in the air...Throughout the day she is always by my side, whether I'm in the attic sewing or on the couch reading...She even sits on the internet box at night and watches me type away at the computer... She is in my shadow everyday and everywhere...She is so trusting and loving and listens to my thoughts on good days and on bad ones...and no matter how much I confide in her, she always comes back... It just dawned on me today how tightly woven our lives have become... She's my precious little baby and the bestest little kitty in the whole wide world... E.B.

Take Care,

Tina

...Early Work Mercantile...

2011-02-14T19:06:00.000-08:00

~ Please drop by and take a look at our new listings !! ~

~ Hearts to You ~

2011-02-14T12:39:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite holidays...because it's a chocolate holiday!! I'm sending out brainwaves for lotsa boxes of chocolate today...dark chocolate is my favorite! I have been horrible about blogging lately...Early Work Mercantile is a little time consuming at times and I have been making dolls and planning a quilt behind the scenes... I'm thinking that this year I'll just make everything and list it all at once!!! Little and often fills the purse but lotteries are good also!!!

Please don't give up on me...Check back often because even I don't know what I'm gonna do!!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Early Work Mercantile ~

2011-02-01T08:25:00.000-08:00

February is here...where on earth did January go?

Please check out our new listings and artists on EWM.

~ Thanks so much for stopping by! ~

Take Care,

Tina

~Pondering & Puttering & Piddling ~

2011-01-25T12:30:00.000-08:00

These cold and dreary winter days have left me on auto-pilot lately...I'm not drawn to any activity that requires critical thinking... Rather, I hone in on things that I just glide through. I like the easy-peasy stuff!! This happens to be the time of the year that I'm the most laid back...and that's good because I usually chart my course and decide the direction that I want to travel during the year...It's a great time for pondering life!!

***

I have created some new dolls that I will be posting somewhere soon... I'm in a very extremely primitive mood this year so wait until you see what I have done!!! I've also been piddling around with some quilt blocks for my annual attempt at quilting!! I have good feelings about this year...

Please stay tuned to see what all my "pondering, puttering and piddling" brings!!!

Take Care and Stay Warm,

Tina

...Early Work Mercantile...

2011-01-14T20:27:00.000-08:00

~ Handmade Primitive Drygoods updated on~

Early Work Mercantile ~ Please drop by!!

~ To the Attic ~

2011-01-13T12:52:00.000-08:00

Well, I made my way back up to the attic yesterday and today... I thought I would start the year with the focused determination of piecing and finishing a lap quilt for my dear mother...She has been hinting for one and she has been sooo patient for about 10 years now...so I have to do it!! Last year I decided to make her a patchwork quilt because I thought that would be the most forgiving of quilts for a mere beginner like myself...Boy was I wrong ~ the small pieces were much harder to align than I had ever imagined and it didn't work out... This year I decided to do a larger block and so far...it's working!!

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Geez, I hope I don't jinx myself now...I'm actually getting a little confident because the blocks are turning out the same size!! Playing around with all the colors and fabrics is fun too...As you can see, I'm a hopeless fabric-aholic (note full shelves of fabrics) ... and darn proud of it!! I'll post some more pictures as I move along...and clean my sewing room...wish me luck!! ....

Take Care,

Tina

~ Mind Over Matter ~

2011-01-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

I actually got a few things accomplished today which is very good considering my slowness this time of the year...I spent the morning staightening up my office. It seems to be the magnet of the house, whatever needs to be stashed somewhere always ends up in this room!! I also like to keep my wool and paint in here so that can sometimes get out of hand too because it gets thrown everywhere... I didn't have the nerve or the courage to take a "before" picture...just an "after" one !!... Considering what it used to look like...this is a major improvement!

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I'll be heading upstairs to the attic to organize my fabrics and to play around with some quilt designs... I'm slowly shifting into gear...varrooom!!

Take Care,

Tina

~ Wynter Blues ~

2011-01-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to check in to say...this is exactly what I have been up to lately...taking pictures of my cats staring out the windows!! I always take awhile to get back on track after the holidays...I don't know why...Others hit the ground running and creating but I always find my mojo later...I'm just sitting back waiting for my creative juices to start flowing...It could be tomorrow...

In fact, I'm hoping it will be tomorrow!! *LOL*

Until then...

Take Care,

Tina