Down Hidden Farm Lane...

Check out my wares:

2012-02-15T00:58:00.004-05:00

Hey all, check out my latest offerings, at the Olde Primitive Peddler this month, lots of great listings through tomorrow night..Click on the link:

http://primitivepeddler-hiddenfarmprimitives.blogspot.com

Hello and Winter Blessings..

2012-01-26T13:54:00.007-05:00

Where do the days go? I swear I am so far behind. That year flew by, and I have to apologize to you for my slacking here.

I had also been ill with that horrible flu since Christmas night, and it lingered for close to a month with me. Just terrible..I am still a bit congested.

I hope everyone had a fantastic Holiday Season. I am already working on Easter, then right back to Fall and Christmas. Sales have been pretty much non existent for me the past year. But, that's the sign of the times, and it is what it is.

I have decided to make a lot of changes in my life, one being to rid myself of negativity, and negative people. People who bring nothing to my life but angst and misery, emotional turmoil, and just plain nastiness. They just aren't worth it. Life is meant to be lived and enjoyed.

Please be sure to stop by my Selling Blog listed on the right side of this page, just click that button and you will be sent on your way. This year I plan to do more creative things, such as working with clay, and other mediums. There is more to life than a needle and thread, and I was an art major after all, time to put that to good use. Over the next few weeks, you will see a different side to my creativity.

Also, be sure to stop by and check out this adorable give away, for Patchwork Bowl Fillers..I just think they are beautiful..Maybe I will get lucky and win? Or you will..

Blessings, to You & Yours, Diana

Buttons In The Attic Giveaway (Click on the picture):

HELLOOOO!!!

2011-10-21T10:50:00.003-04:00

So we went to Maine for our vacation..It was so nice just to get away from nosy neighbors..It rained a couple of days, but it didn't matter, we needed a break. We came home to find someone, gee, wonder who, had yanked a lamp off of our light by our patio door. We left it on accidentally, and ..It was yanked out, bulb, and shade, and just set nicely on the top of the step..had it just fallen out, it would of shattered, and dented. Plus it was the side facing her yard. The other one was twisted straight up in the air. Not that it matters, but the light goes dim when left on anyhow, PLUS it was aimed at the corners of our yard. So why the heck someone would even care is beyond me. But see, Crazy people do what they want and don't give a second thought to how it effects others, or that it is ILLEGAL..whatever..this is what we deal with every day. Not to mention the fact that this light is a 3 step process to take apart..it can't just "Fall Out"..and had there been winds, would the table and chairs not of blown around as they did before? Some people really take the cake. Oh, and did I mention the phone calls? Yep, still getting those as well, calling, pausing and hanging up..I don't know what we did to deserve this, but I hope Karma comes knocking on their door real soon..

Anyhow, I cannot believe it is almost Halloween already! Where did that year go? Been working on Christmas all week, have a lot to do as far as that goes. Hoping sales pick up.

Have a Safe, and wonderful week, enjoy the Fall weather. I am so thankful Summer is over, THIS is my very favorite time of the year, Fall/Winter..God Bless..

Where did the Summer go??

2011-09-14T11:17:00.006-04:00

Boy that Summer flew by..And I have not been on here as often as I would of liked..My apologies, for sure..Been a crazy Summer, and way too hot for my taste..Not a fan of High Humidity ..Give me crisp fall days and cool nights, any time..

My DH finished the Patio with his Dad, it was a 3 week long project, but we are so thrilled with it, they did a GREAT job! So nice to be able to sit out there in the evenings around a fire. Next year he is going to put walls on it, and we want to get a nicer Patio set. Decided to transplant the hydrangeas to a different spot, and next year plant ornamental grasses there, I love the tall grasses, and the sound of the wind bowing through them, very calming..We had 2 families of Blue birds this Summer too, the last 3 babies, they seem to really enjoy our yard, so that's good. I love the blue birds.

And my Sister emailed me a bit of trivia this morning, Love this sort of thing..Have a Blessed Week!!

The year is 1911 --- One hundred years ago.
What a difference a century makes!
Here are some statistics for the Year 1911:

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

The average life expectancy for men was 47 years.

Fuel for this car was sold in drug stores only.

Only 14 percent of the homes had a bathtub.

Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.

There were only 8,000 cars and only 144 miles of paved roads.

The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.

The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower !

The average US wage in 1910 was 22 cents per hour.

The average US worker made between $200 and $400 per year ..

A competent accountant could expect to earn $2000 per year,
A dentist $2,500 per year, a veterinarian between $1,500 and $4,000 per year,
and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.

More than 95 percent of all births took place at home .

Ninety percent of all Doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION!
Instead, they attended so-called medical schools, many of which
were condemned in the press AND the government as "substandard."

Sugar cost four cents a pound.
Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.
Coffee was fifteen cents a pound.
Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used Borax or egg yolks for shampoo.

Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from entering into their country for any reason.

The Five leading causes of death were:

1. Pneumonia and influenza
2. Tuberculosis
3. Diarrhea
4. Heart disease
5. Stroke

The American flag had 45 stars...

The population of Las Vegas , Nevada , was only 30!!!

Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and iced tea hadn't been invented yet.

There was neither a Mother's Day nor a Father's Day.

Two out of every 10 adults couldn't read or write and only 6 percent
of all Americans had graduated from high school.

Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter
at the local corner drugstores.

Back then pharmacists said, "Heroin clears the complexion,
gives buoyancy to the mind, regulates the stomach and bowels,
and is, in fact, a perfect guardian of health!"

( Shocking? )

Eighteen percent of households had at least one full-time servant or domestic help ....

There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE U.S.A. !

I am now going to forward this to someone else without typing it myself.

From there, it will be sent to others all over the WORLD - all in a matter of seconds!

Try to imagine what it may be like in another 100 years.

IT BOGGLES THE MIND!!

hi there!

2011-06-03T13:49:00.001-04:00

Well, My Art Studio/Craft room is now complete, My DH did a wonderful job for me, made it my own special piece of Heaven. I love it up there. Wish my pup was able to climb the stairs and keep me company, but his old legs don't work as good as they used to.

I signed back up for Curves on Wednesday. I belonged in 2006. I lost 45 pounds back then, in 4 months. Then someone talked me into quitting and doing it at home (won't mention who)..well, here I am, 5 years later fatter than ever. Not happy at all. My first day, she showed me the machines, to refresh my memory, and let me tell you, I was in disgust with myself. SOOO out of shape. It was hard for me. But you know, we all have to start someplace. Monday I go 5 days a week..She told me that if I can only go half the times around as normal at first, not to beat myself up over it. I went 6 days a week back then, but as I look back, it took me a few weeks to work up to that. And it will again. But once I get into it, watch out!!!
A year from now I will be back to my ol self, and happy again. I miss me..I miss being able to just buy clothes, and not have to order them online. Wish me luck!

Flowers are blooming, Birds are nesting, and I am back at sewing. I took a few weeks off. Sales are pretty much non existent for me. I have noticed that the really creative artists, they are still doing pretty well, so that proves to me I need to get mor creative. Maybe people are tired of Primitives? Want more creatvie and folky types of things. When I started making Prims. There were so few of us, we all pretty much knew one another, now there are literally thousands of us. The Market is now saturated I think..SO time to be more creative. Take some of my own creations and revise them a bit..Bring back my babies, and make them even more special..Start working in Clays, and Paper Mache.

Wherever you are, may you have a Blessed Weekend with your friends, family, and those who love you! Diana

HELLOOOO!!!

2011-05-23T22:28:00.002-04:00

I have to apologize...time just seems to fly by, and weeks without one post from me..I am so ashamed!!! For as much as the Winter lingered, I have been loving the Spring, even with the rain for days on end.I still take the time to enjoy it when I am able. We planted a bunch of perennials and annuals. and when we get a bit of sunshine, I will take pics and share. I planted over 400 seeds in my cutting garden and see some popping up, I hope and PRAY they grow nicely. I sit on my front porch daily, and converse with my favorite hummingbird. He sits on the feeder, or a trellis nearby and stares at me, as if he is listening to my every word, this goes on for 15 minutes somedays. We have blue birds nesting in one house, and tree swallows in the other, 2 sets of catbirds in our blue spruce, and the barn swallows fluttering to and fro all over the neighborhood, so darned cute. And tomorrow I am planting my veggie plots, Cucumbers ( pickling, slicing) pole beans, tomatoes ( Cherry, plum, beefsteak) Peppers ( bell, Hungarian sweet), lettuce, basil, parsley, rosemary, garlic chives, and onions. Fun fun..I love it, and cannot wait to partake in the bounty. PRAYING the weather cooperates. I am so saddened for the poor folks who lost their homes to horrendous floods, tornadoes, and the like this Spring, so far..God Bless all of them. So very sad. I am so thankful for the life I have.

I have not been a good dieter, and exerciser..Lost 10 pounds, but that is not nearly where I wanted to be by now..Have no one to blame but myself. And Only I can remedy this situation..I know this. I also know it will happen, sooner, rather than later. I have nothing but time in my life.

I took some time off from sewing..sales are pretty much non existent right now. times are tough, and I am honest enough to realize, people have bigger fish to fry right now. I will be back into it sooner, rather than later. I promise. I did add some cuties to my site, stop on by and see. I will be adding a few folk art dolls, and Americana ones as well..

Our neighbor wanted to call a truce with my husband the other day..this is after she yelled at him for planting trees down the sides of our yard telling him it looked utterly ridiculous..only because she can not watch us as easily as she once did..She wanted to know why we no longer talk to them..Um..HELLO???? Why would we? With the lies,(so many), and the games (we are adults, not kids)..we just cannot allow people like her in our lives any longer. Then she tried blaming us because the other neighbors don't really talk to them..as if we are in control of these people..Unlike her, we don't go around bad mouthing her. She creates these things by her own actions, and they have nothing to do with us.

I have a saying I just love, and it goes like this: "The old saying is true~ Do yourself a favor and lose the friends who lack ethics, morals, or with whom you aren’t proud to associate. You are the company you keep~
Mean People make excuses~ Nice people don't have to~"

So very true isn't it? And on that note, I wish for you a wonderful week..Blessings, and Smilesto you & Yours!!

Happy Spring

2011-03-20T19:15:00.001-04:00

Finally, Spring is here..Bulbs are popping up, I see some have moved, this clay soil we have, everything gets moved about in it, LOL had 2 off them come right out of the ground, it is what it is I guess. I buried them deep enough too, so it is really funny to see how far they rose.

Lots to do this Spring, planting our Arborvaedes down both sides of the yard, we did that at our last house, and wasn't sure about doing it here, but, with the crazy neighbor, we now feel the need to make sure we have boudaries. Digging out and tilling my flower/veggie garden the entire back of the yard (out back, the whole fence line) I want a cutting garden full of sunflowers (4 types, all pro-cut, so no pollination), Giant Zinnias, daisys, poppies, coneflowers, black-eyed susans, sweat peas..then tomatoes, cucumbers (pickling and eating), lettuce ( hopefully I can get this planted in time), some herbs ( basil, prsley, dill, chives), and sweet and green peppers..oh and pole beans. all intermixed..I want to outline this wide ( long however way you look at it) bed with marigolds. I am planting what we eat, as much as I can. My dad always intermixed flowers and veggies, and had great success, so I plan to do it this way as well.

Planning our Summer cook-out, too, going to be a fun one, with the same band we had at Christmas (our good friend Steve and his band are fantastic)..Going to be a fun 6 months. Started my diet again..Don't know why I cannot stick to that plan, but, no excuses anymore..wish me luck, I have a whole person to lose. Start back at the park early in the morning.
Have a wonderful, Blessed, and Safe Spring..Stop on by my Seller Blog to see what cute goodies I am offering for Easter/Spring/Summer.

Interesting History:

2011-02-28T12:40:00.004-05:00

Interesting History...My Sister Sandy emailed this to me, and I loved it so much, I had to share:

Where did Piss Poor come from?

They used to use urine to tan animal skins, so families used to all pee in a pot and then once a day it was taken and sold to the tannery....... if you had to do this to survive you were "Piss Poor."

But worse than that were the really poor folk who couldn't even afford to buy a pot....... they "didn't have a pot to piss in" and were the lowest of the low.

The next time you are washing your hands and complain because the water temperature isn't just how you like it, think about how things used to be. Here are some facts about the 1500s:

Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May, and they still smelled pretty good by June. However, since they were starting to smell.......

Brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. Hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.

Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water. The man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean water, then all the other sons and men, then the women and finally the children. Last of all the babies. By then the water was so dirty you could actually lose someone in it... Hence the saying, "Don't throw the baby out with the bath water!"

Houses had thatched roofs-thick straw-piled high, with no wood underneath. It was the only place for animals to get warm, so all the cats and other small animals (mice, bugs) lived in the roof. When it rained it became slippery and sometimes the animals would slip and fall off the roof... Hence the saying "It's raining cats and dogs."

There was nothing to stop things from falling into the house. This posed a real problem in the bedroom where bugs and other droppings could mess up your nice clean bed. Hence, a bed with big posts and a sheet hung over the top afforded some protection. That's how canopy beds came into existence.

The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence the saying, "Dirt poor." The wealthy had slate floors that would get slippery in the winter when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until, when you opened the door, it would all start slipping outside. A piece of wood was placed in the entrance-way. Hence: a thresh hold..

(Getting quite an education, aren't you?)

In those old days, they cooked in the kitchen with a big kettle that always hung over the fire... Every day they lit the fire and added things to the pot. They ate mostly vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold overnight and then start over the next day. Sometimes stew had food in it that had been there for quite a while. Hence the rhyme: Peas porridge hot, peas porridge cold, peas porridge in the pot nine days old. Sometimes they could obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could, "bring home the bacon." They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around and chew the fat.

Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food with high acid content caused some of the lead to leach onto the food, causing lead poisoning death. This happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400 years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous.

Bread was divided according to status. Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or the upper crust.

Lead cups were used to drink ale or whiskey. The combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a couple of days. Someone walking along the road would take them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the family would gather around and eat and drink and wait and see if they would wake up. Hence the custom of holding a wake.

England is old and small and the local folks started running out of places to bury people. So they would dig up coffins and would take the bones to a bone-house, and reuse the grave. When reopening these coffins, 1 out of 25 coffins were found to have scratch marks on the inside and theyrealized they had been burying people alive. So they would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, lead it through the coffin and up through the ground and tie it to a bell. Someone would have to sit out in the graveyard all night (the graveyard shift) to listen for the bell; thus, someone could be, saved by the bell or was considered a dead ringer.

And that's the truth....... Now, whoever said History was boring!!!

So... get out there and educate someone! ~~~ Share these facts with a friend.

Hello!!!

2011-02-16T12:40:00.003-05:00

It really has been far too long since I have posted in here, please forgive me!

I saw my first sign that yep, Spring will be here sooner, rather than later, a pretty Robin was in our yard today.

With as much snow as we got this Winter, I wondered if we would really get a "Spring". Hopefully we can enjoy a pleasant one this Year, as we did last.

Been busy sewing, and TRYING to get back on track after my bout with the flu, it really put a wrench in my plans, and for the life of me, I just cannot seem to get back "with it".

Anyhow, Blessings to you and yours.. Have a wonderful week, and I promise I will be on more regularly from now on :o)..

BRRR!!!

2011-01-16T12:16:00.003-05:00

Boy, talk about COLD.. Last year we got spoiled. all of our snow was gone by march last year, I doubt that will be the case this year, it is so cold, snowy and blustery. A Typical New England Winter.

So many times I have said how much I hate it here. I really don't. In fact, since we have moved, I am much happier in this neighborhood than the last. People in that one, were not overly friendly. Yes we had our small group of friends, but other than those few, I hated living there.
Even here, despite my wacko neighbor, we love living here. We have met some wonderful people, and love our house. Hopefully we get another 12 years out of it, or more. God Willing (with his job). I have vowed not to let her craziness bother me. Ignoring her the best way that I can, despite the fact that she watches everything we do, and when I say this, I am not exaggerating. It's her loss. The people around here are wonderful. We have nothing but nice things to say about all of them..Even Her. we had a great time with her on more than one occasion. Jealousy is an evil monster. It rules your personality and ruins your life, and you end up alone in the end.

Moving on. I love it here, I love my friends, my husband, and the life we have created . A child would of been nice, but, not everyone is meant to be a parent, we understand that. Scotty makes up for it, though it saddens me deeply knowing he is going on 12. I hope he lives another 5 years. I cannot wait to go out and plant my cutting garden (the seed catalogs have been ordered) and plant my veggies, and put out all f my feeders, baths, and bird houses. I love that we have so many bluebirds here. They just brighten my day, they really do. Precious creatures, all of my pretty little birds. I absolutely love sitting out back with my morning coffee, listening to the birds sing. I cannot wait to plant all of my Sunflowers, oh how I love them . This will be a great year, I can just feel it.

Be sure to stop by my Seller Blog. I just listed some Valentine's Day goodies. have a blessed Week..

HAPPY New Year!!!

2011-01-02T16:49:00.003-05:00

Boy December flew by and here we are, 2011 already!!!
This year I am making ME a priority in life..
I am done worrying about other people, especially wackos who have nothing better to do in their lives that wreak havok on everyone else, and focus on my life, my health and my marriage..as well as my art.
May you have a fantastic, healthy and happy 2011...

Be sure to stop by my friend Laura's blog, she is having a fun giveaway..Cameo earrings..

God Bless The USA, and Everyone in my life who matters...

http://jewelrybylaw.blogspot.com/

Harvest Blessings...

2010-11-22T15:18:00.007-05:00

I cannot believe Thanksgiving week is upon us..Where DID that year go to?
Seems it was only yesterday we were watching the fireworks on July 4th, and here we are, in November, and the end of it at that!
Once again I am behind..I swear I always have the best of intentions and want so badly to be ahead of the game, then something happens to distract me, this year we had a lot going on, with getting settled in the new home, etc..
We finished painting 3 rooms (or he did, but I picked the colors), The office needs furniture, so I won't show too much of that room, but here is the Dining room, Kitchen, and half bath ( sort of hard to get a pic of that room being it is smaller), and one of the office wall color:

I will begin uploading all of the dolls I have made so far for Christmas/Winter tonight into tomorrow on the selling blog..and yes, as soon as I am done with the Holidays, I am starting Easter, because i WILL be ahead of the game next year..

Have a Blessed and safe Thanksgiving with Family and Friends..

Beautiful Advice to Live By:

2010-11-05T01:15:00.003-04:00

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
...(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's" More "I'm sorry's."

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it ... live it and never give it back.STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us

Happy Halloweeen!! Trick or Treat!

2010-10-31T12:14:00.004-04:00

I love this time of the year..Falling leaves, crisp days, warm, crackling fires, hot cocoa..Kids Trick or Treating..What could be better?

Have a safe, and fun Halloween, don't eat too much chocolate, watch out for Ghosties and Goblins, and Witches Flying by the light of the moon...

Be Blessed!

Been so very busy!

2010-10-25T11:18:00.000-04:00

Hello all..I cannot believe Halloween is this coming weekend!
We have been rather busy as of late, me with sewing a few things for my home, and starting my Christmas designs, Hubby has been painting the house, we have the Dining room complete, it looks gorgeous, I will take pics and post as soon as he finishes painting the other rooms, he is keeping all of his supplies in the dining room.

Our friend Brian is diligently working on my pie safe..I just know it will be gorgeous! He does a beautiful job with woodworking..

Planning a small party for my dear friend Cheryl's (and my) upcoming Birthday, we found out it was the very same day, so we decided to celebrate that, with friends. Should be a fun evening. And I have started planning our Annual Holiday party, our friend Steve's band will be performing that evening for us all, blues & old rock. Time is just flying by here in the North East.

We spent a few days in the Mystic Connecticut area, visiting Stonington, CT, and the different beach areas of Rhode Island last week. It was nice to get away from it all, and away from..well, nevermind. Those Mansions in Newport are just gorgeous..here are a few Pics for you to enjoy..the one mansion they were doing work on, which is why you see part of a crane of some sort..

Be Blessed..

Challenge Doll Listings..

2010-09-26T13:57:00.010-04:00

Thank You to all who participateed..If there are any others who have finished and have listed..Please share your pics and links with me..

Here is My Dolly:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290480497272&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Here is Tara's Cutie:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320600483013&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

And Shawnette's, How sweet she turned out:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320601563080&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Challenge reminder:

2010-09-25T16:29:00.003-04:00

Hey ladies...Just a friendly reminder..you may start listing your Breast Cancer awareness Challenge Dolls tomorrow..I DO have a free ebay template available, Thanks to Debbie, from Deb's lost Treasures, she designed a BEAUTIFUL template for our personal use..I can email the code to you. Please contact me if you would like this template code..

Also..Please send me your ebay Auction links so that I may share them here. You have this week and next to list..Thank You all for joining me..Be sure to Make your donation as well, when you list your doll..Cannot wait to see them all!

Diana

mailto: dshrome@yahoo.com

Doll Challenge, Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

2010-09-04T21:42:00.015-04:00

Raggedy Doll Challenge, Breast Cancer Awareness:

Hello, fellow Doll Makers/Artists..In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I have decided to host a Sewing Challenge here..

You, upon signing up, will be asked to Make a Doll, she has to be in all shades of Pink, (ther colors may be used as well, along with the Pink, But Pink will be the main color/focus) for that is the signature color. All dolls will be made using the same Pattern, kindly donated by Kellie, from Chestnut Junction. Please adhere to the guidelines of this pattern, you may add something creative to go along with your doll, but do not deviate from the pattern, other than your own personal touches, and keep in mind the color scheme (pink)..Please check below for the pattern..And please, Do not just snag the pattern..She has kindly donated this cute pattern for the cause, please be mindful of this..if you snag it, please sign up for the challenge..

Sign ups are from Now, through September 15..Please, Do NOT sign up if you do not have the time to donate and sew for this worthy cause.
We will be listing our dolls on Ebay.. Ebay has a Donation option for charities, and this is why I chose this option..We will be listing these dolls, from Sept. 26-October 2, or the week of Oct. 3-9
Once you list, PLEASE share your links with me, so that I may add them here..I will post a follow up to keep this Challenge fresh in our minds..

I hope to see many of you joining me on this worthy Challenge and Cause, if you could please sign up in the Comments section..thanks so much, and Many Blessings..

Please note, this challenge is now closed, the free pattern is no longer available!

Swap Partners Have been Drawn:

2010-08-01T23:37:00.004-04:00

Just a short update..I am waiting on 2 swaps to be received..once they are, I will share all pics of the swaps on a seperate page, TY all for being so patient!!

Hello...I have sent out all partners and their info..Please contact me if you have NOT received a partner or her info:

Tara Sends to Becky,

Becky Sends to Diana,

Diana Sends to Lyn,

Lyn Sends to Sandy,

Sandy sends to Tammy,

Tammy Sends to Tara...

Thanks ladies, cannot wait to see the end results..Remember to ship the week of Aug 23!

Swap is now closed:

2010-07-30T10:01:00.001-04:00

Hello, thanks so much all of you who have expressed that you wanted to join us..I will be drawing your partner names this weekend and emailing them all to you on Sunday..

Another Swap!!!

2010-07-24T11:33:00.006-04:00

This swap is a bit different than the last..

when you sign up, I will need you to email me your email address..Upon receipt, I will send a copy of a Pattern I have created, and this will be what we will use to make our Raggedys with.

The Raggedy must be made using this pattern...You can do whatever you like with her, however (Paint her, etc) as long as her dimensions stay as they are in the pattern. This pattern is my first of many to come, I have not sold patterns in a few years, and feel it is time to get back into it.

Once you sew her, you need to stick with a "Cherry" theme..You can dress her in Cherry fabrics, or give her cherrys to hold..but the theme is Cherrys. In the meantime, you will receive your Swap Partner's information.

Once your dolly is sewn and dressed, you will need to gather a few extras to go to your partner, this can be anything from room sprays, to tarts, to candy ..just keeping in mind the theme..I always like to throw in a few fun goodies. From cute little note cards, to chocolates (though this time of year is hard for that), to tea, etc..you get the idea..the idea is to have fun with it, not break the bank. Swaps are as fun as the participants make it.

So, there you have it, a combined swap/challenge..You may email me your email address below, along with Full name, address, and any allergies you may have..
I will take that information and add it to a file to keep for future swaps.
I will take names for a week, starting today..
You will receive your e-pattern as soon as you email me, but you will not receive your partners info from me until sign ups are over.

The dolls will need to be completed by August 20..Swaps will be sent out the week of August 23. Priority mail please..And PLEASE check my swap rules listed on the right. I do apologize but must insist rules be followed.
PLEASE take a photo of the swaps WHEN you receive them, so everyone can see your goodies, email a photo to me..

Thanks to all of you who will participate, this will be a fun one!! Be SURE to Put "Cherry Swap" in subject line of emails..I will draw Names August 1: Diana

mailto:dshrome@yahoo.com

What a Weekend!

2010-07-20T20:37:00.003-04:00

We had our Annual Cookout over the last weekend..
About 22 people came, it was a great time, lots of good food, drink, and many laughs as the night progressed. We enjoy doing this sort of thing a couple of times a year, the larger parties. We don't do this for any other reason, than simply enjoying an evening with all of our friends at one time. At the end of the evening, a dear neighbor, whom I now consider a dear friend, said to us "you guys have the BEST friends". People say this to us all of the time. That is a true compliment. We surround ourselves with GENUINE people..People who truly enjoy each other's company, and ours, no one is a phony, everyone is sincere. Because, with true friends, you don't have to be anything but yourself, and it doesn't matter how much money one makes or doesn't make, true friends are just that..FRIENDS..
I have a saying that I recently came across, that comes to mind "Always be yourself because the people that matter don't mind and the people that mind don't matter.." so very true. Because if you are a sincere and genuine person, people are drawn to you naturally, and those are the people we choose to surround ourselves with.
With friends, there is never a need to have jealousy, or "one up" each other in life. Friends can admire one another's good fortunes, and be there for one another in times of sorrow or need, with never a bad thought either way.
Be Kind, Be Yourself, and Be Happy. Life is far too short not to be...

Raggedy Watermelon Swap: Thank YOU Sandy W..!!!

2010-07-14T14:33:00.005-04:00

So exciting!!! Got the CUTIST swap from Sandy W. today, TY TY TY I LOVE it all...You are so creative, I just love how you incorporated so many fun ideas into the swap, and my little Annie is darling, I have the perfect spot for her. I never even thought to do those ideas, LOL darn!!Well, I will be growing melons next Summer and will think of you when I do..HUGS, and many thanks My dear friend..Thank you Tara, and Sandy for participating in the swap..FUN, FUN, FUN!!

People are Funny..

2010-07-13T09:25:00.005-04:00

I am constantly in awe of some artists. They just come up with an idea, and "Poof" it turns out exactly as they had thought..I admire that.

I admire so many things about others, the gift of giving and caring for others in their lives, without ever a second thought.

And yet, so many people are not that way, seems like these are the sort who are drawn to me.
I seem to attract people who always try and outdo me, for whatever their reasons may be. This can be with Cooking, Gardening, Entertaining, Sewing, the list goes on and on. That song from Annie Get Your Gun, "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" plays in my mind.
These people don't realize that I don't do things in my life to try and "Show Off" for anyone. I do them because I truly ENJOY being this way. I have been cooking since I was a young tyke. MY Chore after school, after my sister moved out, and there is close to 8 years between us, so from about age 11, was to make dinner. My Dad taught me what he could when he wasn't out at the bars, but mostly it was a learning process, and I knew I loved it. When my Brother In Law Bob could, he would show me a few things along the way ( he has been written up in the newspaper for his culinary talents)..I LOVE cooking for people. Baking is also a love of mine.
Gardening comes in there somewhere as well, my father had a green thumb and I always admired his gardens, they were gorgeous. So beautiful, people would drive by our home to look.
I just don't get why people have to be the way they are. Be original in life, find something that you are great at, and perfect it, instead of trying so hard to outdo others. Stop watching what other's do, and instead, focus on you and your life. Stop trying to be the "best" at everything, and just "Be"..People like you better when you are just yourself. When you go through life trying to portray yourself as "perfect", you actually end up being just the opposite of that. Create your OWN path . You will surely find life to be much simpler, and more enjoyable in the end.

Fresh Peach Cobbler:

2010-06-26T21:42:00.008-04:00

So very very good:

Fresh Peach Cobbler:

4 Cups fresh peaches, sliced ( pitted and peeled)
1 C. Sliced strawberries ( or any other berry you may want to add (Blue, Black, Raspberries all work nicely, or just add another cup of peaches )

Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish, preheat oven to 350 degrees
Arrange sliced peaches and berries on the bottom..

In small bowl combine:

1.5 C Flour
1.5 Tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt (do not omit)
*½ C. Brown Sugar
*½ C White granulated sugar
¾ C melted butter ( yes the real stuff, none of that fake stuff)
1 tsp Pure vanilla Extract
¾ C milk

Mix well, then pour over peaches and berries.

In large measuring cup, microwave ¾ C of water until boiling, Stir in ½ C brown sugar, ½ C White Sugar, and 1 tsp Cinnamon. Pour over the batter.

Bake for 50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly, serve slightly warm with whipped topping or ice cream.

**Please note, you may adjust the sugar in the batter slightly, if you want it less sweet, instead of a half cup, make it 1/3 cup of each, but I would not do more than that..I would NOT change the amount in the boiling water however..

Watermelon Raggedy Swap!!

2010-06-13T18:29:00.005-04:00

Hello..I will be taking sign ups for a small swap, starting today, for a week or so..
Swap description:

1: You must make Or purchase a hand made Raggedy Ann, (From a doll maker, not manufactured in China please), Min. 6 inches, please try and keep this doll as close to a raggedy ann as possible..lightly prim is fine, I would not go extreme prim with her, not everyone likes that look, so it is easier to make her slightly prim.

2: She can hold a piece of watermelon, be dressed in Watermelon fabrics, or you can include a set of Watermelon bowl fillers with her..When I think of Summer, Watermelon always comes to mind. Be Creative, you can do whatever you want with this part of it..Watermelon Candles, tart melts, bowl fillers, room sprays etc..as long as you keep the theme Watermelon!

3: Try to include a special treat for your partner, this can be anything from Chocolates (though the weather is rather warm so that may not be the best plan), maybe yummy shortbread cookies with some tea..just something special with the swap.

That pretty much covers it.. ALL swap rules are listed to the right. Please follow these rules. I like swaps to be fun for everyone who participates. PLEASE take pics of your swap before you mail it out, AND of the swap as you receive it.

On Monday ( A week from tomorrow ) I will draw partners..This is not a secret swap, so you will know who she is (or he). When I draw names, I will then have everyone fill out a small questionnaire that you will email to your partner with your info on it ( name, address, allergies, etc)..

Please, if you would like to join us, email me your name, and put "Raggedy Swap" in the subject line!!! Thanks so much! Email: dshrome@yahoo.com

Finally!!!

2010-06-07T09:17:00.006-04:00

here I am...boy time flies, I tell you..

been busy sewing a slew of dolls..then my sewing machine broke and I had to sew most of every thing by hand, got behind, then had to take a week off to prepare for my friend's Surprise Baby shower I threw.

I am going to be listing all of the Americana Dolls tomorrow and Weds on my seller blog, and one Folk artsy one on ebay. I have 5 more in the works, these are just every day/Summer dolls.

It sure has been Hotter than normal here as well. We are experiencing weather like you would see in July/August, as opposed to Spring. Hot, Humid, very little rain. Flowers have to be watered daily, and you hope they live. This week they say it will be normal, I sure hope so. Had a pair of ducks land in my yard a few weeks back, that was a delight for me. I love birds, all types.

Started walking the park a couple of weeks ago, it has been tough for me, walking on a treadmill is NOT the same thing as walking outdoors, I don't care what anyone says. I can easily walk a mile on the treadmill. Outdoors, I barely make less than a mile. But, I plan, by the end of Summer, to be up to 2 miles a day, which is 2 and a half times around the park. I like that no one goes there, it is quiet. There are places to stop and take a breather if you have to, etc.
Anyhow, I hope you are having a Safe, warm, and wonderful Spring so far..

Blessings, Diana

Good Saturday Morning!!

2010-05-15T07:22:00.007-04:00

Good morning, The birds are chirping and singing this morning, the sun is shining bright..A beautiful day, minus the crazy wind..We have a pair of Barn Swallows, they come and sit on the tops of our pillars and chit chat to one another, then fly away, the cutist thing LOL..Like our house is the "Coffee House" for them or something.

Boy, sewing and sewing and sewing like crazy here..I want to get as many dolls ahead as I possibly can so I can delve into other projects. I want to get more creative, working with clay, etc..in the next couple of weeks, plus I have some home projects that need to get done. Then, onto Halloween..Some gals are already on Christmas..I cannot keep up!

I hope you are having a Blessed Spring.

Have not been walking like I should..I could kick myself. Seems I get up and go for a week or so, then I let excuses set in. Tomorrow morning, back in the saddle so to speak, bright and early..If I cannot go out and walk for a half an hour every morning, I have issues. Saturday mornings I will take off, they do games all morning and afternoon at that park (baseball). I like to go when no one is around..when it comes to this sort of thing, I like my solitude. I have to start back on my wii too, loved it, now I should go down later today and reconfigure it all, set some goals. Goals are always good.

Have a Great Day & Better Weekend!!

Been SEW Busy!!

2010-04-30T15:19:00.005-04:00

hey everyone...I have been nonstop busy the last few weeks, sorry I have been neglecting my blog..For one, I admit, I am a facebook addict. So much fun!

But I have also been sewing, entertaining friends, gardening, and trying to get in exercise when possible. Made it to the park and did a nice walk today..will do it every day as long as I am able..

Today, I made the YUMMIEST Banana Bread, and just had to share with you..Hope your Spring is as Delightful as Mine has been..Enjoy!

Sour Cream Banana Bread
recipe # 9351, Recipezaar.com

1/2 C softened butter (no subs)
1 C Sugar
2 large eggs ( room temp)
1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

Cream all together, then mix in by hand:

1.5 C Flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt (Do NOT omit, this acts as a leavening agent in baked goods)
1 C. overly ripened, mashed banana (I used 3)
1/4 C Chopped nuts ( may omit )
1/2 C Sour Cream..

Combine well, then pour into a greased and floured loaf pan.
Bake, 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes..
Remove from oven, run a butter knife along the sides, and let cool 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate..Sprinkle powdered sugar on top and rub in ( this is my touch, you don't have to do this, but we like it)..

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T08:20:00.007-04:00

Happy Easter To ALL of my Blogger Friends..May Your Day be Blessed With Friends & Family..Good Food & Laughter, and Don't forget the Reason..for the Season, The Resurrection of Jesus Christ, who Died on the Cross for our Sins...

And on a lighter note:

Welcome SPRING!!!

2010-03-21T16:47:00.005-04:00

Spring is in the air..I just LOVE this time of the year..you get to open a few windows, feel a nice breeze, smell everything coming to life after a long, cold Winter. Time to get out and start up my walks again, rising with the Bluebirds to start my day.

not too long ago, after a bit of frustration, I wrote my thoughts on life down. I do this from time to time..a sort of therapy for me. I took 2 years of Contemporary Lit in High School, and my teacher wanted me to become a writer in the worst way.. the farthest I got was a few poems published, then I got sidetracked. Who knows, maybe one of these days, when I tire of making dolls and things, I will start writing in my book again. Anyhow, these are some thoughts on life I had, and wanted to share:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I remember, years back, working as a manager for a store in the shopping mall, observing a young couple making rude comments about this person walking ahead of them. Having watched this person on several occasions myself, this angered me. For one, the person they were talking about had Huntington’s Disease, the beginning stages of it, and when one starts showing signs, 90 percent of the time, they do so in the way they walk, usually it appears as if the person is drunk, which was the case in this situation.
Things like this really bother me.
Everyone has a story. And far too often, people make judgments or assume things about the person, without understanding WHY the person is the way they are. I guess this is why I love Animals as much as I do..Pets, especially, as they have an undying love for you, no matter what you look like, or sound like, no matter how much money you have, or how clean your home is. As long as you feed them, play with them, and care for them, you will always have unconditional love.
I cannot fathom how some people can just assume things about others without knowing them first. For one, you have no idea what their home life is. Life behind closed doors is, many times, far different than what is shown to the world. My own family is a wonderful example of this. Everyone thinking we were so happy, loving , and perfect, when behind closed doors, it was a nightmare ~~like night and day. Nothing was as it appeared to be. I have found this to be the same for so many of us in the world. So many lost souls, so many of us scarred from our childhoods. Such a shame.
An even bigger shame, is how we forget how it feels to be mistreated, abused, neglected, hurt, when we bestow our opinions, and judgments upon those we don’t really know. I used to have a friend, she would come to my home when we had gatherings, and after people left, she would stay and tear apart everyone at my house, from what they wore, to what they brought. If she got bored with that, out came the insults about their houses, and how perfect hers was, and on and on it went. It all got to be a bit much, and I wondered, as I opened a gift she brought me (she always brought me gifts) “I bet this justifies her behavior in her mind..” that by her giving me a gift, that gave her the right to pass her judgments onto others, (over half of them she didn’t even know), including me.. I can only imagine the things she said on her way home, about me.. My father was great at that. Nice as can be to you when you came for a visit, but when you left, he tore you apart, from the clothes you wore, to how you need to lose a few pounds, and on and on it went.
Life is too short. Life is to be lived and enjoyed, not wasted on your own insecurities, most of us have too many. Who really cares if that guy is wearing plaid pants with a polka dotted shirt? Who really cares, if that person is a homosexual? Why does it matter if she dates black men, when she is white as can be? In the whole scheme of life, does any of it really matter? And if it does matter to you, WHY?? Is it life threatening? Is who they are, and what they are doing in their life, harmful to you, in any way? There are BILLIONS of people on this planet. Isn’t it time for YOU to just get over yourself, and let it be?
And maybe, instead of assuming things about others, try and be a little bit more understanding. We are all human beings, living the best way we know how. If you feel that someone needs a bit of guidance along the way, instead of slamming the door in their face, open another and show him the way.
Simply stated: You don’t have to like me, or love me..
You don’t have to agree with the things I say or do..
You don’t have to be my friend..
all that I can ask is that you just let me be ME, while YOU be you..

Easter is listed on my seller blog!

2010-03-11T18:31:00.000-05:00

I just finished listing the last of Easter..stop on by my Seller Blog and see what wares I have to offer..Seems like we just Celebrated Christmas, and already Easter is a few weeks away..Where DOES that time go??
I am going to get a head start of Fall in a few weeks..I have GOT to get ahead for a change..

Stop on by and take a looksie!

http://www.hiddenfarmprimitives.blogspot.com/

things that I find annoying..

2010-03-07T17:41:00.001-05:00

Things that I find annoying in life..They may or may not be the same as you, let me begin :

I get very annoyed by people who throw their trash out their car windows, or when they are walking down the street, standing at a bus stop, etc..This also includes ciggy butts. There are such things known as Trash Barrels, Garbage cans, etc..God did not create this Earth for us to filth it up by our laziness, and yes, it is VERY lazy to just whip something out your car window, and if you don't teach your children to respect the Earth, as they do learn by YOUR example, they really think nothing of being lazy in life. Have some respect for Nature, Animals, and the Planet. We could learn a few lessons from other nations, in this Country..In China, for example, if people are caught littering, they are punished by having to pick up litter for days..if they are caught throwing gum out, they are punished by having to scrape gum off the sidewalks, etc...Not a bad plan in my opinion..

I get very annoyed by the rude behavior of those around us. For example, we have new neighbors..One of them can stand not even 5 foot away from you, and not even say hello, if you are out walking your dog, and he is out running, toward you, he will put his hood up and look down, so as not to have to make eye contact..Why is that?? Just because someone says "hello" doesn't mean they have to be your best friend...It's called "Being neighborly". Neighbors should be friendly, as they are always the ones we turn to first in an emergency, not a good plan to alienate them.

People who judge by what someone looks like..this is a MAJOR pet peeve of mine having had weight issues for 80 percent of it..never assume you know a person because they are over weight. EVERYONE has a story, and EVERYONE has a right to be heard and understood..Stop assuming!

People who lie..Sure we have all said a small lie here or there in life..I know of no one who hasn't..I am talking Bold faced lies, lies that are completely without merit, and usually end up hurting others in the process.

And, last but not least, Jealousy..Jealousy is an evil monster that tears familys and friendships apart. I admit I have been jealous from time to time, again, many of us have. But jealousy without merit is something that I cannot stand or tolerate. Jealousy between a Mother and her daughter, for example..How can ANY parent be jealous of their child?? How can ANY parent, then turn this jealousy into anger and hate, and then lie, and turn one sister against the other? Parents are supposed to be loving and supportive, and caring for ALL of their children, not just the ones who coddle their egos the most..I have seen this happen time and time again, and I will NEVER understand it..Even in my own family..how sad. How very, very sad to go through life with such bitterness. Family, when it comes right down to it, are all we have in the end. Or are supposed to have. Most families have dirty little secrets, sad but true. But, when this jealousy and bitterness overtakes what really matters in life, you end up alone. No one should be alone.

Why can't people have respect for life? Life is a gift..Love is an even bigger gift, and when you take either of them and disrespect them, you end up a very sad person...

Enough said..Time to move on..I just let these things bother me too much..I have always worn my emotions on my sleeve, for all of the world to see. And, from time to time, if I don't vent my frustrations, I will just let them build up in me and explode into an emotional mess, it is not pretty..

And, so it goes..

Spring is in the air!!

2010-03-06T15:11:00.001-05:00

Just a short hello...been busy sewing like a fool all the last 2 weeks..have been taking pics of all of my dolls today and started loading them onto the selling blog ( I do close it temporarily while I do this, just makes it easier for me to do things right and not feel like I am rushed)..I have 3 more dolls to finish then some bunnys and I will be done..
I am making a solemn vow to work on a few Summer items, then be finished with Fall by July..then Christmas, by September etc..no more of this being behind stuff..

Have a great day!!

Creamy Chicken & Noodle Casserole

2010-02-24T12:34:00.002-05:00

Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole:

Preheat oven to 350 Degrees:

Cook 8 Oz egg noodles or rotini as directed on package and drain..set aside ( I add in 1 C Sliced Carrot to this as well, and cook all together)..I also add ½ C frozen peas to the strainer and when I drain my pasta over the peas, they melt nicely ..or you can just add in ½ C canned..

Boil 2 Chicken breasts in 4 C Water, set aside to cool and then chop..

Add in 2 T Chicken base to the broth and stir.., remove 2 cups and set aside

In large pan, saute in 1 T light Olive oil, 1 Small minced onion, and 1 clove minced garlic until tender, add in 3 T butter, stir until melted..Stir in 3 T flour, stir for 1 minute..remove from heat..Stir in 2 C of broth, 1 Tsp Basil, ¼ tsp ground sage..Stir constantly over med. Heat until slightly thickened…Stir in 1 & ¼ C grated Cheddar cheese, stir until melted.. Remove from heat, add in noodles, carrots and peas, and chicken..

Pour into casserole dish ..bake 15-20 minutes..Also you may season as you wish..I add in more black pepper and a bit more cheddar..taste the sauce and decide as you go along :-)

·

Clam Chowder

2010-02-24T12:33:00.002-05:00

Clam Chowder:

2 C Water
4 C peeled and diced Yukon Gold Potatoes ( or your pref)
Boil in pan untl tender ( doesn’t take long)... See More
Brown 3 strips of bacon, crumble and set aside.. Make sure they are crispy
In Dutch oven, saute in ½ stick butter:
½ c Finely diced onion
1 Stalk of celery diced, until tender..Stir in 3 T flour, stirring for 2 minutes..remove from heat..
Stir in 2 C Chicken broth ( or veg broth)..2 C half and Half , ½ Tsp ( or more if you like it spicy) Cayenne Pepper, 2 T Dried parsley flakes, ¼ Tsp ground black Pepper..Stir over medium /high heat constantly until mixure thickens..remove from heat..

Open 2 cans whole or minced clams 10 oz cans,, I like minced, not a big fan of large pieces..Drain both cans over a strainer, into a 2 C. measuring cup..Add in half of this if you only want a slight clam taste, add in all if you like it real clammy tasting, into the soup..Add in potatoes and clams and bacon..You may also add in a small can of sweet corn ( or 1 C frozen)..Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until heated through..

11 minutes ago ·

Stop on by, St. Patty's For sale :

2010-02-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

I finally listed the few St patty's dolls I made..hoping they sell...Times are tough all over right about now..

I know I can be a bit opinionated..but when I feel like I need to defend my choices in life, I will do so, with as much class as I can muster, if it offends anyone, I apologize..

This year will be spent working on many things, my Creativity, Patience, My relationship with God..

And I just love my Scotty:

Blessings to you all...

Way To Go Sadie!!!

2010-02-17T11:23:00.002-05:00

Way To Go Sadie!! She truly is Top Dog now!! I have been watching this cutie for the past 2 years do the shows, and was thrilled when she won Westminster last night.

What doesn't thrill me is the behavior of PETA. I am all for Animal Rights & Welfare. My family had a shelter dog when I was younger, she was a great dog. I adopted a dog from a shelter, myself when I moved out on my own, but had to turn her back in as she was just too much for me to handle, for one, and I was moving into a place that said NO pets, for another ( she was a wolf/chow mix). I just find it fascinating that these people do the things they do. Yes, I agree that there are too many mixed breeds out there being euthanized every day..But there are ways to handle these things, with dignity, and class..Standing up in the middle of a dog show is not one of them . I love my Scottish Terrier. He truly is the best dog I have ever owned, hands down. Would not trade him for all of the money in the world. I should be condemned because I chose to buy one? Did they ever stop to think that the reason why there are so many strays and mixed breeds out there, are, for one, too many irresponsible pet owners exist, those who should not even have a dog, for example..If you cannot afford to get a dog Spayed/neutered, let alone keep him fed, and healthy, you really have no business owning a dog in the first place. Stop blaming people who love pure breed dogs, and start educating people on the correct way to be a responsible pet owner..If more people who cannot afford to spay/neuter a pet stopped buying them, maybe there would be less of them out there to worry about..Or, if the Animal Welfare organizations out there, should offer free spay and neutering programs for people, maybe this would help.

Anyhow..WTG Sadie, she deserves to be Number one..I hope she got lots of treats when she got home..

Weird Winter...

2010-02-10T15:45:00.001-05:00

What a weird Winter we are having here in my area..So far, since the beginning of January, we have gotten roughly 3 inches of snow..that pretty much all melted, and they predicted 6-8 for us today..guess what? We have about 1.5 inches out there..Seems like everyone around us has gotten a ton of snow, and it just bypasses us this year. Call me crazy, but, I miss it. I love those cold, blustery Winter Days, when you get so much snow the whole town is shut down, when you make some cocoa and cookies and play games or put a puzzle together. I kept hoping today would be one of those..Sigh..So far it has disappointed me. Ice I cannot stand, snow, I love. Granted if we get it early in the Season, or even in the Fall, which does happen, and it lingers for months on end, we are ready for Spring by now. But, Where is our Winter Snow?
I love to stand out in it as it falls, it is just so peaceful out in the woods when it does, just breathtaking.

Moving on..I have been so busy..Got a large order for 10 of my dolls for a sweet gal in Australia, I made her 2 extras...They are going to be used as Shower gifts for her Daughter's baby shower:

That took up so much of my time. Right now I am diligently working on St. Patty's dolls So I can get started on Easter, once again I am behind..Planned to be ahead this year, but, that's what I get for planning I guess..I have a lot of goodies in mind too, and will be working at it for the next couple of weeks, all kinds of cuties will be offered..Make sure to stop on by my Seller's blog over the next couple of weeks to see all of my new goodies..Blessings to you all..

Sooo Funny!!

2010-01-27T23:52:00.003-05:00

My Friend, Pamela, had this on her Facebook page, and wanted our opinions, I laughed so hard..Am STILL laughing, I cried..I watched it about 4 times, and would watch it again..If you have a fear of clowns, this may scare you..BUT, I LOVED it LOL...I just had to share..I really needed a good laugh!

http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/01/25/walmart-clown-commercial-do-you-find-it-funny/

Oh and, a good thought for today, have no idea where this one came from, but it is a great motto to live by for sure:

"Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that life would be easy. They just promised it would be worth it."

Okay...I need some Prim help!

2010-01-11T13:01:00.002-05:00

Hubby says to leave it like it is..I say the fireplace needs MAJOR help..Please forgive the mess, with trying to keep pup off furniture..and with sewing, etc..

We are planning to slap some paint on the walls soon ( cocoa brown)..but, I still say I need something on either side of the fireplace, and more on the mantle..He is this "Less is More" guy..I am in love with all things Prim, but can only do so much before he gets a panic attack on me..I also don't want my walls covered in things, but do think this area needs some help. I will appreciate any and all suggestions and go from there..HELP!!!! my dining room, we are waiting on a Large Jelly Cabinet for the corner ( back by the window)..I am painting that room a Caramel color and we are putting chair rail and white bead board half way up next year, and I did add 2 Folk Art paintings to the back wall that I did, I also have a Swan and large floral basket I made on the table, and more roosters and sunflowers on the hutch now.. I think I did an okay job in there...I am lost with the living room and the fireplace though:

This is my Dining room:

Oatmeal Cranberry/Raisin Cookies!

2010-01-09T12:32:00.000-05:00

I found this recipe awhile back on the "Mennonite Girls Can Cook" Blog, and have to say these make the BEST oatmeal cookies ever. I tweaked the recipe by adding Dried cranberrys into it, as we like them, but you could stick with just the Raisins or add Chocolate chips if you are not a raisin fan ( then I guess it would not be called Oatmeal Raisin , would it? )..Simply fantastic cookies..I did add in my own notes as well, enjoy!:

3 beaten large eggs
3/4 C raisons ( or 1 Cup if not using Cranberrys)
1/2 C Dried Cranberrys ( Craisons) ( May Omit)
1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

Soak all in a bowl for one hour..

In large bowl, cream together:
1 C Softened Butter ( no subs)
1 C Packed Brown Sugar
1 C White Sugar

Sift in:
2.5 C Flour ( all purpose)
1 tsp Cinnamon
2 tsp Baking soda
combine slightly, then Stir ( by hand) until all combined ( I say By hand as this will not overmix..many people over mix cookies/muffins, and this is what makes for a tough cookie or doughy muffin) in:

2 C Rolled Oats ( not Quick oats)
1/4 C Chopped walnuts ( may omit)

Preheat oven to 350
Drop onto Parchment covered cookie sheets (or ungreased nonstick) and bake for 10 mins, or until lightly browned..

Happy New Year!

2010-01-05T16:18:00.000-05:00

I truly Wish all of you to have a Wonderful, Safe, Healthy and Joyous 2010..Thank you for your warm wishes as well..

Been so very busy getting our home back in order. It is always so much fun to decorate, but we love putting it all away and having a clean house again. I had a tooth pulled and one filled ( cavity ) yesterday. Always fun!

Start walking on my treadmill and working out with the Wii tonight. Couldn't do it yesterday due to "no strenuous activity" as stated by my Dentist. I slept alot.

Started sewing my Valentine's Dollys and things, I will be listing those this coming weekend, and re-opening my selling blog..

have a wonderful Week, stay warm, it has just been brutally cold here. Blessings, to you all~~Diana

Whew!!! it's over!

2009-12-26T22:46:00.001-05:00

WHEWEE!! I am plain tuckered out..I think the year of moving, building the house, and moving into it, then all of the stuff that goes right along with it, has truly caught up with us..we are both exhausted.
The Holidays are always crazy, but, for some reason, they were even more so this year. With going to Florida for 2 weeks in November, that sort of screwed us up, and we plan to never do that again at this time of year. Life was just too nuts when we got home, with having Thanksgiving, his having to work on average 70 hours a week, our huge Housearming party/Christmas party, my Cookie swap..just too much. Yesterday flew by.

Time to slow it down. We decided, that we truly need to stop planning our lives for everyone else, and plan our lives on our own time/terms. He only gets one weekend off a month, and it is so tiresome trying to schedule in everyone on that one weekend. If people can't fit us in, I guess we will see them next time around..Life is too short as it is..

I also plan to stop letting others bother me so much. So many people bring things upon themselves. We all choose to be the way we are. If you follow the Golden Rule, and treat others the way YOU want to be treated, Life tends to be kinder to you in the end. If you have nothing but negative thoughts, and say nothing but negative things about other people in life, eventually you end alone and bitter.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday with their Family and Friends..That Santa was kind to you, that you said "Happy Birthday" to the Lord Jesus Christ, and you felt love in your heart, wherever you may be..

2009-12-17T09:47:00.002-05:00

DEAR EDITOR:
I am 8 years old.
Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET

"VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge."
"Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished."

"Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world."

"You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding."

"No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood."

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

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

Hello there!

2009-12-11T14:55:00.002-05:00

To begin..BOY is it COLD!!!

another thought...what is it with those people...you know the ones..They talk about everyone, never have anything nice to say about anyone but themselves..then they wonder why people stop calling, inviting them places, etc..go figure!! I mean, after awhile, people get tired of hearing how wonderful you are, and how the rest of us need to bow at your feet...That really amazes me!

Anyhow, moving on..
Not sure if I am sold on my Keurig Coffee Brewer..Hubby bought it for me for my BDay last month..I thought it was a neat idea, considering he doesn't drink coffee, only I do, plus, when people come over, everyone likes theirs brewed differently, (I like mine on the strong side), so I figured they could make their own cup..Anyhow..He also bought me the seperate filter so I don't have to spend money on the flavor cups, only when we expect company. So, I sit here, drinking a cup...not sure..First, I have just the basic model (actually think it's called Elite), nothing fancy, some have features for stronger brew, larger cup, etc..Mine has the basics, and the 2 sizes of coffee cups..the small ( which brews a tiny cup..I never use that) and the large, which I find funny, considering it doesn't even fill up my mug (only to just under 3/4 full), and I don't have large mugs. I fill up my filter to the top, and still, I am finding my coffee is just not strong enough..SIGH!!! I have tried a few of the flavor cups, considering I did order a few of them to have on hand. Some are really not bad..Others, I don't care for at all..So frustrated here..I know, If I go and pull out my coffee maker from storage upstairs, and put the Keurig away, as I am tempted to do, he will get upset (not that I blame him). I guess I expected a lot more from this than what it is, considering how everyone raves about it..sigh!! I know, when we get the basement done with the family room/bar, I can put it down there..but for now, I wish I know a better way to brew. I like my flavored coffees..I wish I could get a stronger and fuller cup..I guess I just keep trying, and hoping it grows on me :)

:( okay, done venting for now..BBL I have to finish laundry..I HATE doing laundry!!

Where does the time go?

2009-11-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

Been sooo busy lately..Seems no time for anything, the days are flying by! Now I need to update the background on here, lol for Christmas! On top of that, we have been having computer problems..so everything I do takes me FOREVER...sigh!

I did manage to finish all of my ornies, well, the ones I have time for and added them to my selling blog, some really cute things on there, stop on by: http://hiddenfarmprimitives.blogspot.com/

Here are a couple of items I just added:

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T06:08:00.001-05:00

I cannot believe the day is finally here!! Where does the time go? And a week from Saturday is our big Christmas Party..Time really does fly doesn't it?

May your day be filled with many Blessings..Love, Laughter, Good food, Great Friends, a nice glass of wine..Some wonderful desserts. And always say a prayer for those less fortunate, as well as those in the Armed Forces, especially this time of year. God Be with them all..

Jack Frost Swap...For Winter :)

2009-11-23T07:11:00.003-05:00

Well, I decided to cancel this swap, only 2 people

signed up for it, and since this time of year is just way too busy.....

I WILL be holding a

Valentine Swap after Christmas, so please check back to sign up, that one will more than make up for this one!!

Please Join us,

Jack Frost Swap:

Sign ups are today til Nov. 29

Shipping out the last week of December

This Swap will be a smaller one, Geared toward the theme of "Jack Frost". Since Christmas is so close, and many of us are finished making "Christmasy Things", lets gear this one toward Snowmen..

You will include, in your swap, a set of 3 (or more) Snowmen bowl fillers or ornies, since many of us keep them out all Winter after Christmas is finished. You Must make them yourself OR Purchase them from another artist, NO "Made in another Country" fillers or ornies.

Also, please include a special treat for your partner, and something special, a little extra cutie they can use any time of the year. This item can be anything.

And take a picture of your swap WHEN you receive it and send it to me..All Swaps are Priority with Delivery Confirmation..

Those are the three "Must Haves" in the swap..you can add more of anything else you like, or just stick to that plan.

This swap is open to anyone, please keep in mind the swap rules at the right of the blog. I will post all partners a week from today.

It's Sunday!!

2009-11-22T15:32:00.000-05:00

What a pretty Fall Day..Hard to believe Thanksgiving is this Thursday! Where does the time go?

I finally listed on Ebay, will list another doll, a Folk Art Angel, tomorrow.. then list some ornies on my seller Blog. I have 2 more dolls to make, one as a gift, then I am done with Dolls until after Christmas. I also want to make a couple of Santas, snowmen, I hope I have time, seems this year flew by too fast for me. Usually I am working on Valentine's right now. Seems that, when you get behind, you stay behind.

Anyhow, stop on by my Ebay, her pics were not the best for some reason, my camera is getting old. But she is too cute in person, I think:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290373197130

Have a great day!

It's always good to be HOME!!

2009-11-18T08:43:00.002-05:00

Whew...That trip was exhausting, and I will NEVER go away at this time of year again..Too much to do this time of year, and I am so behind.

We had a wonderful trip and I will post some pictures later. I LOVED Savannah the most, and did NOT want to leave, we will go back there for sure.

Some of the Hotels we stayed at we were disappointed in, but, for the most part, we had a nice time. I have so much to do the next 2-3 weeks, one being Thanksgiving at my house this year, 2 being a HUGE Christmas party at our house the following weekend ( the 5th of Dec)..

Hope everyone had a nice week or so..I missed blogging LOL...off to do my Facebook next, I am so afraid LOL, as I think I have a TON to catch up with on there..Have a great day!!

MY SELLER BLOG IS REOPENED!!

Seller Blog will be Closed for a few days..

2009-11-08T00:44:00.000-05:00

Hello, on my way to Florida Monday..to visit the parents, and we are driving, so we will be gone a little over a week..My seller blog will be closed during this time, but I will re-open when we get back...making lots of ornies on the trip..

Have a great week, Stay warm :) Diana

MY SELLER BLOG IS NOW OPEN!!!

2009-11-03T00:13:00.001-05:00

I Decided not to pay for another year of a web site that hardly gets any business..I get more sales off Ebay, and had a few off of here last year, so decided to just stick wiith the Seller Blog. I am planning to add more dolls tomorrow, then Snowmen, Santas etc..The thing that is really putting a wrench in my plans is we are leaving for a week, and I won't be sewing ..So PLEASE check back often.I promise I will add as fast as I can create. ALL orders will get freebies:

Hidden Farm Primitives

Great Swap , Check this one out:

2009-10-21T20:37:00.001-04:00

She is hosting another Great Swap on The Pickled Pepper Patch, I just signed up, She has some great rules so if you sign up, make SURE you read her rules..Had a fab time doing the Harvest one she hosted, go take a looksie at this one, OOOH I can hardly wait to get started:

Old fashioned Christmas Swap

Another great Giveaway!!!

2009-10-20T10:36:00.003-04:00

Stop on by this CUTE blog for a great opportunity to win one of her DARLING Olde World Folk Art Santas:

http://cinnamonberrylane.blogspot.com/

Thank you, all you swap gals!!

2009-10-20T00:01:00.001-04:00

I believe everyone has sent/received their swaps by now..TY for participating, everyone had a great time with this one, and I appreciate that we all got them out on time :) If you have not received yours yet, please post to me on here, and TY ALL so much, again, I would of posted pics, but, figure you all did on your blogs, and then I forgot :( forgive me, gals :) Diana

CUTE Snowman Giveaway:

2009-10-18T11:04:00.000-04:00

Stop on by This cute Blog for a chance to win a CUTE Snowman..I have GOT to get my butt in gear and get more things sewed and painted..I feel so behind this year for some reason:

http://bittersweetfixinsnprimitives.blogspot.com/2009/10/its-giveaway-time.html

Bowl Filler Challenge? Join us!!

2009-10-17T11:59:00.001-04:00

I am hosting a challenge on my ebay group, and have decided to invite any of you to join us as well:

Let's do a Bowl Filler challenge for Christmas, I think it would be even funner to do one with a bowl/basket or jar included..
You would make a set of Bowl Fillers, geared toward the Holidays, then place them in a cute bowl, basket, or glass jar, you can add anything that you like to them, and we will do a listing on here (ebay).I already have mine in mind..I do know you can buy somewhat inexpensive wood bowls and things at Wally world then paint/distress as you like..
Let's just do this as a fun challenge to get things started this time, next time we will vote on them with prizes..

Sign up here if you are interested..I will take sign ups for a week, then we will have 2 or so weeks to get crafty, and we will list the 3rd week in November..

If any of you Blogging gals want to join us, and ARE on ebay, please state your ebay selling name in your post too, if you do not sell on ebay, you may still join us, just send me a picture of your finished items and where you have them listed :)

Home Sweet Home!!

2009-10-13T16:22:00.002-04:00

We got home Sunday evening...It is always so good to come home, even if after only a few days. We had a WONDERFUL time..the Inn was gorgeous, Here is Scotty and a couple of pics from our room, our gorgeous king sized bed and BEAUTIFUL bath were upstairs:

We stopped and took some pictures of the most photographed lighthouse, it was just gorgeous:

Then we went out for some delicious seafood, one experience, the first night was not so wonderful, but I won't go there, the worse food we had the entire time, so thank goodness we got that out of the way that first night. I just love Maine. The people are friendly, it is clean. The Ocean is gorgeous. I never want to leave!

And, On another note:

TY TY TY Denni, MDF!!!

I got the cutist swap from her today, Just darling, 2 cute witches, some candy, and a body spray that smells good enough to eat, I love it all!

Heading to Maine!!

2009-10-08T00:32:00.000-04:00

Well, tomorrow we are heading to Maine, for a LONG overdue getaway, and to Celebrate our 10 year Wedding Anniversary..I cannot believe I have been here 11 years, and we have been married 10, but, it's true!! We haven't killed one another yet, it came close a time or two, but we survived and here we are, 10 years later. I will be sure and share some pics for you. I just LOVE Maine. I feel like I must of lived there in a formal life, as every time we go, I feel like I am coming Home again. Have a great weekend..See you when we get home!!!

Cosby for President!!

2009-09-28T17:01:00.001-04:00

Sorry I have been MIA, been busy..trying to get ahead stock wise, entertaining, Fall decorating, etc..Also, I will be emailing all of the swappers next week to remind you about the Treats Swap :)
On another note:

I received this awhile back in an email, and thought it was fitting, for many reasons..Our country is in rough shape, and this is truly the way things should be. I think the founders of our Country would be so saddened at what we have become.

Bill Cosby:

I HAVE DECIDED TO BECOME A WRITE-IN CANDIDATE.

HERE IS MY PLATFORM:

(1) 'Press 1 for English' is immediately banned. English is the official language. Speak it or wait at the border until you can.
(2) We will immediately go into a two year isolationist posture to straighten out the country's attitude. NO imports, no exports. We will use the Wal-Mart policy, 'If we ain't got it, you don't need it.'
(3) When imports are allowed, there will be a 100% import tax on it.
(4) All retired military personnel will be required to man one of our many observation towers on the southern border (six month tour). They will be under strict orders not to fire on SOUTHBOUND aliens..
(5) Social security will immediately return to its original state. If you didn't put nuttin in, you ain't gettin nuttin out. Neither the president nor any other politician will be able to touch it.
(6) Welfare - Checks will be handed out on Fridays at the end of the 40 hour school week and the successful completion of urinalysis and a passing grade.
(7) Professional Athletes--Steroids. The FIRST time you check positive you're banned for life.
(8) Crime - We will adopt the Turkish method, the first time you steal, you lose your right hand. There are no more life sentences. If convicted of murder, you will be put to death by the same method you chose for your victim; gun, knife, strangulation, etc.
(9) One export will be allowed, Wheat. The world needs to eat. A bushel of wheat will be the exact price of a barrel of oil.
(10) All foreign aid using American taxpayer money will immediately cease, and the saved money will pay off the national debt and ultimately lower taxes. When disasters occur around the world, we'll ask the American people if they want to donate to a disaster fund, and each citizen can make the decision whether it's a worthy cause.
(11) The Pledge of Allegiance will be said every day at school and every day in Congress.
(12) The National Anthem will be played at all appropriate ceremonies, sporting events, outings, etc.

Sorry if I stepped on anyone's toes
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Bill Cosby

Got My Harvest Swap!!!

2009-09-17T13:31:00.001-04:00

OOOH How exciting, I participated in The Harvest Swap on "The Pickled Pepper Patch" Blog, and got mine today, what an AWESOME swap!!! TY to Lottie, from Sweet Pea's Primitives...I am blessed, what a great way to start my Fall Decorating this year!!

Hello...What a BEAUTIFUL day!!

2009-09-13T18:46:00.004-04:00

Such a beautiful day here in the NE...I love days like this, breezy, sunny, the scent of Fall in the air. The only thing that saddens me is the Bluebirds are already heading south..So sad..

On another note...I have half of my Tricks & Treats Swap finished hehe..

and finally..I am normally not a political person. I see life differently than many people do. I have family members who are die hard Republicans, who go through life blasting anyone who dares think differently than they do, as they are always right..this is probably why I try not to get involved, too many people who are "Right" instead of more people having open minds and giving new ideas and thoughts a chance..Anyhow, moving on..I stopped by one blog, and found a link to another blog...and for once, I have read someone's opinion on people's public behavior at these Town Hall Meetings to be a disgrace...and I agree 150% with what she has to say...stop on by and read..Have a great Sunday Evening!

Is That A Good American?

Happy Labor Day!!

2009-09-07T15:20:00.008-04:00

God Bless our Country..Hard to believe it is Labor Day already! The year has surely just flown by.
Been working on my other blog. Slowly I am losing weight, so that is a good thing. I did find a new DVD to work out with that I am going to LOVE..go check it out:

http://www.tofindmyselfagain.blogspot.com/
I will be adding recipes to this blog too, healthy ones, mostly. But I am finding "healthy" really isn't so bad after all. There is truly a difference in "Healthy" food, and "Diet" food..I am not a fan of anything that says "Low fat" , "Diet", "Nutrasweet", "Aspartime", etc, etc..I would rather eat nothing than eat that. Healthy means..Eat an apple!! Especially this time of year, I could eat 3 of them a day!! If Any of you have some great, Healthy Recipes, links etc...come on over to my Weightloss blog, become a follower ( I am lonely in there), and send me an email with any and all recipes, tips, etc..I will gladly share on there..

Anyhow, Hubby is working, so on my own..Doing laundry, cleaning, sewing..Hope all of you have a wonderful day with your familys..God Bless..

Happy Birthday Raggedy Ann!!!

2009-09-07T00:50:00.001-04:00

In Honor of Raggedy Ann's Birthday, My friend AwtemNymf ( you may find her blog by clicking the Happy Birthday Siggy) has asked that we all Celebrate this special day by sharing some dolls we have made over the years..As a child, I had a favorite Raggedy Ann, she went everywhere with me...I never would of dreamed I would be sewing and selling my own version of her all of these years later..So HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Raggedy Ann, Thanks for being a best friend to so many little ones along the way!

Swap Reminder!!!

2009-09-05T18:21:00.000-04:00

I will be extending the sign ups for the Tricks & Treats Swap to Monday!! Come on in and sign up...Swaps can be so much fun, just like Christmas!!

AWESOME PFATT ..Giveaway!!

2009-09-03T17:33:00.001-04:00

Check out their AWESOME, Amazing giveaway...oooh I can only hope, pray, wish upon a star I win ;)

Click the title of this post to go there:)

Here I am...Fall is in the Air!!

2009-09-02T00:01:00.001-04:00

Wow...what a year! One year ago this coming weekend, we moved out of our old house up to my Father-in-law's cabin for close to 7 months while our new home was being built..That flew by, really...and we are thrilled to be in our home. Now if I could just stop hurting my foot, I could get my butt moving again and get some more weight off, sigh!

I love the fall, this time of year, with the warm days, the cool nights, the apple pickin, the fresh cider, decorations, Christmas shopping ( yes, I am that annoying person who shops early), The leaves falling. The scary stories, Halloween was ALWAYS my favorite day of the year.

On another note...I am giving Kudos to another artist, for standing up for herself..Time & Time again, over the years, I have seen people take credit for something that they know darn well is not their creation, but copied or created from a pattern. Yes, I have made 2 patterns. No I don't enjoy it, pattern making is tedious and time consuming..some probably love doing it, I do not. I, like her, enjoy the fact that my dolls, for the most part, are One Of A Kinds, that those who buy them from me, can buy them with this in mind, feeling that they truly are a collectable. I would rather take days to create a beautiful doll, doing much of the sewing by hand, while watching TV, then pump out 5 of a dolly and rushing through it. Having bought a few dolls for my own small collection, I do admit that there has been an occassion I have been disappointed with the finished product, and sick in my heart that the person obviously rushed through the job..I felt like I had been ripped off after the fact. I would never want someone to feel this way about anything I create..from the smallest bowl filler, to the largest doll. I love what I do...I love that each one of them is unique, they each have their own personality. And for that reason alone, I will probably not be making many patterns. I will probably never make a Dolly Baby Pattern for example...these small cuties are unique to me..I make them this time of year, and around Mother's Day, and just get a kick out of seeing how each one turns out. I just love it, I really do...They say to take something you love doing in life and be the best you can be at it. Over the years, I have learned so many wonderful tips and tricks from other artists, and I have found I just keep growing and getting better as time goes on..Do what YOU love to do!

Anyhow, just had to get that off my chest..have a great week!

Trick Or Treat Swap?

2009-08-24T11:24:00.001-04:00

I am thinking of hosting my first ever swap on here .... Not including the challenge of course.

This will be a Trick or Treat Swap..Shipped within the USA...

I am requesting all rules be followed..they will be listed to the right.

I will take sign ups for this swap today thru September 5..

Please email me to sign up, I will then send you a questionaire you will copy/paste this into an email and send it to your swap partner. admin@hiddenfarmprimitives.com Please Put: "Blog Halloween Swap" in the Subject line.

what this entails:

You will fill a basket, bag or (something fun) with item (s) handmade by either you or another artist (NOT made in China), please keep in mind your partners likes/dislikes when buying or making..Some treats for them to enjoy or share with their familys..etc..I am requesting that the Minimum cost of items is $20.00..I always include some pet treats ( if they have pets) some candles or tarts, etc, be creative, have fun!

Hopefully we meet new friends, have some fun with this one..

I will post pictures as they come in of the swaps..

Please Cast Your Votes:

2009-08-20T10:17:00.009-04:00

Please Cast your votes for your very favorite Naked Dolly...We really had a lot of fun doing this Challenge, Sewing a naked doll, sending her onto someone else to create a cutie..Lots of fun, and lots of talent: Voting Poll is listed at the right, winner will receive a cute Halloween Witch and a set of bowl fillers made by me..Everyone will receive a small gift for participating as well ( other than myself of course):

Number 1: Sandi R

Number 2: Tammy

Number 3: Diana

Number 4: Sandy W

Number 5: Marcel

Number 6: Tara

Voting will begin tonight!

2009-08-19T10:36:00.002-04:00

hey everyone, the voting poll will begin tonight and end a week from tonight...There will be prizes,a main prize for the most votes ( who you feel made the most of her nakie Dolly), and smaller prizes for everyone else who participated..Thanks a bunch all of you...I will email all of you later today when I get the poll finished..

Nakie dollys...no longer nakie!!

2009-08-09T09:46:00.012-04:00

Okay, so far everyone is having so much fun dressing their Nakie Dollys..As the pictures are sent to me, I will update them here. Then after all are finished, we will have a poll for people to vote on their favorites..

Dolly number one, from Sandi:

Dolly(s) Number 2 from Tara:

Number 3, Sandy W:

Number 4, Diana's

.
Marcel's Cutie:

Tammy's Dolly:

Sunday Blessings...Nakie Dollys are rolling in!

2009-08-09T09:40:00.005-04:00

OKay...dreary Sunday ..Hubby and I are starting our Diet today. He told me he will do this with me, see how it goes..If it doesn't work out, he is letting me join a weightloss program called "Ideal Protein" that a friend of ours used. We are giving it 2 months..if not much changes for me, I get to do this program, wish me luck..

Anyhow, on another note..We have some Nakie dollys rolling in. As they are completed, I will update the pics, then after all are in, We will do a voting poll. Thanks to all of you who joined me. Mine is finished, I won't be able to take her pic until the clouds lift..

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Hello...Summer is flying by!!

2009-08-05T12:44:00.006-04:00

Been far too busy, the days just flying by...

Sewing like crazy, trying to get Fall, Halloween stocked. My fave tiem of the year for sure..I am NOT a Hot & Humid kind of gal..

Be sure to stop by my friend's blog...she is having a "Happy Birthday To Raggedy Ann" Party on September 7...who doesn't love Raggedy Ann?

http://rablogparty2009.blogspot.com/
I hope you are all having a safe, fun Summer...Stop and get an ice cream with the kids..Catch some fireflies..Run through the sprinkler..Laugh More, cry less..Stay cool..

Nakie Dolly Updates...

2009-07-23T12:32:00.008-04:00

This is where I will post all pics of our Nakie Dollys as we receive them..I received mine yesterday...I plan to dress her and embellish her Monday, my weekend is booked, so Monday will be a great day for that..

Cannot wait to see all the Nakie Dollys, and then the dressed ones...FUN...We will be doing more of these for sure!! here is mine, I got her from Tara yesterday:

Here is Sandy W.'s:

Here's Sandy Ramirez's:

Here's Tara's:

Here's Tammy's:

And, last but not least..Marcel's:

Challenge/Swap Partner List:

2009-07-19T00:16:00.005-04:00

Hey there..here is the list of participators and partners in the Nakie Dolly Swap/Challenge:

Diana Sends to Tammy Rose--Diana Sent ( assuming she received, have not heard but tracked package )

Tammy sends to Marcel McNaught

Marcel sends to Sandy W.--Sent & Received

Sandy sends to Sandi Ramirez--Sandy Sent

Sandi sends to Tara Colna

Tara sends to Diana Shrome--Diana received

I have emailed all of you your partner names, addresses and other info..TY for participating, this will be such fun, and I am looking forward to seeing the end results..

Reminder...Nakie Dolly Swap

2009-07-17T10:16:00.002-04:00

Today is the last day to sign up for the Nakie Dolly swap..You may find all info in the list to the right, and where to send your sign up..

I will be drawing partner names tomorrow, and emailing the particpants, then I will also post the list on here...TY ladies, so far, those who are joining me!!

Simone, An Update, and Thank You!!

2009-07-16T10:57:00.005-04:00

Simone is doing so wonderful...here is the update on her, My how far she has come:

Well, here she is. The most beautiful Saddlebred mare I have seen in ages. You may remember the photos I sent several weeks back of a thin, rotting mare whose face had been torn off. Well, just look at her now. Thank you all for posting her on your blogs, websites, and chat rooms. The get well cards that were sent, with their $1 bill of course, are hanging on the tack room door. Some people even took the time to write Simone words of encouragement to let her know not all humans are cruel beings. We are so proud of how she has turned out. She loves people and really loves our handicapped groups that visit.

In the Daisy Patch:

Simone's new coat shines like a copper penny in the sun. Notice her face is healed up. Have you ever seen such eyes?

Simon's Caregivers (and the volunteers) wish to thank any and all of you whom have sent cards and a dollar (or more)..Hard to believe this is the same horse from just a few weeks ago, who was so neglected, and abused, she looks so healthy now and happy..I wish I could adopt her myself! Horses are one of the most beautiful, gentle creatures God has given us, and it tears my heart out when I hear of one being mis-treated in any way (I feel that way about all animals)..God Bless Simone, and God Bless the people who have given her such love and care, I wish more people were out there, to help them all..

Nakie Dolly Swap/Challenge Sign ups:

2009-07-10T22:56:00.003-04:00

Okay...we, in our forum, have decided to host a Nakie Dolly Swap/Challenge on Blogger, hopefully more people will participate this way, and we will get some interest in our forum as well..

Sign ups are from tonight, thru next Friday..July 10-17

if you are interested please email me : DShrome@yahoo.com PLEASE put "Nakie Swap" in the subject line..
I will need:

Mailing name and address, and if you would be willing to ship outside of the USA or from an other country to USA..

What this will entail:

YOU sew a dolly body..minimum size is 8 inches, Maximum is 14 inches..You must sew it out of muslin or a similar fabric..the body must include: head, arms, feet, all sewn,and stuffed.. NO GLUING please..This dolly will be naked, and left to the other person you send her to for decoration, dresses, etc..All you will send is the dolly body, nothing else. Please package her nicely, and include a small note for your swap recipient..

Dolly's must be sent with delivery Confirmation..or some sort of tracking number so we can find her if need be.

Once everyone gets her swap partner, I will then post the date we will all be sending them..this will probably be a 2 week limit, to make the dolly, stuff and ship..then you will email me as you receive the dolls, with a picture of the naked one you received..I will email all of the details to you as we go along..after everyone has finished putting the details on her dolly, another 2 week goal, we will all share our pictures once again..

After this, I will put up a voting poll, for most original, most prim, and best all around...no prizes, but fun to see who will win!!! I may have one of my graphic friends help me with prizes, that could be fun!!

Anyhow, let's have some fun with this...the more the merrier...Please, as with all swaps, if you cannot commit the time, please do not sign up :) Blessings, Diana

People are so rude ...

2009-07-09T11:26:00.005-04:00

okay...let me go back to the 3rd week of May..I ordered a set of tart melts from a lady I ordered from before (etsy)..Back in February, I won some off a blog contest from her, after I purchased my very first set. Great melts..anyhow, back to my dilemma..

I ordered 3 sets from her off Etsy.. 4-5 days go by, she emails me to tell me that she ran out of scent for the one set, so she has refunded me the whole amount I paid and sent the 2 sets to me free..that I should be getting them that week..one week went by, then 2..no melts..so I email her..She apologizes and says she has been having issues with the Postal Service and she would send me 2 more sets the following day, and to let her know when they arrived, in the meantime, feeling bad, I went ahead and sent her money for the 2 she was sending me for free..another week passes, then another. I email her again..got no reply. Email her again, Got no reply, so then I waited a few more days..got nothing..Left her negative FB on Etsy. Filed a claim in PayPal..So today she posts this RUDE reply to my dispute saying I am the rude one for opening a claim, after she refunded me, and how she sent them to me 2 times, and how dare me..then she posted another reply saying she had refunded me the money I sent the second time, not realizing this..no apology though, keep this in mind! Okay so I look at my account, she didn't refund me, but being flustered about this ordeal, I replied to her, telling her SHE is the rude one, as I never received the tarts she "Sent", and I emailed her 2- 3 times with not a reply back, and how she was the rude one, not me, and I had been selling online for a good many years, and know how the PO operates, and if she "Sent" them like she claims, where is the Confirmation number to prove it? And good luck with her business, thinking to myself she is an ass..then like an idiot, I closed the dispute..No she didn't refund me..

Now...what the Hell?? I mean, really!! So I look on Etsy, she has her store "Temporarily" closed, as she is burnt out and needs a break...No kidding!! She also needs some lessons in politeness and business etiquette..I have only run into this sort of thing once in all of these years, and this first one happened this year as well. Basically lieing about "Sending" an order, and knowing darn well they never sent it to begin with. What the frig?? I just don't understand any of this..first off, had she never sent me candles before, I could see that maybe they got sent to an old address or something. But, I have been ordering from her for months until this incident. same way with the other gal..she did this sort of thing to me Twice, the second time I had to open a dispute, then take it to the end before she refunded me..makes no sense at all..How can people treat other people this way, and sleep at night? Makes you wonder, it sure makes me wonder..I was raised to treat others the way I want to be treated, and I use this in every day of my life, including my business practices. So many times I have ordered things, and been disappointed in the packaging of the items, just thrown in a box, with not even a Thank You! I always package things up nicely, WITH a thank you and a freebie..because that is what I consider polite..So disappointing to open something you bought, to see it just thrown in a box and nothing show you are appreciated.

Sigh...maybe by my "treating others the way I want to be treated" I expect the same in return? Silly of me I guess...or is it?

Sneak Peek..been busy!

2009-07-08T14:44:00.003-04:00

Sorry I have been MIA the last week...trying to get some Fall/Halloween started..so been sewing, and other things..Sneak Peek:

The weather here has just been horrible...we have had more rainy days than sunny ones here, and it has not been overly hot..no fresh corn at the stands or good tomatoes this Summer ( or very little is my guess), which Stinks...being an Ohioan in my heart, I MISS corn, as it comes earlier there, and is soooo Darned good to boot..so when we FINALLY get it here in upstate NY, I eat as much of it as I can...sigh, doubt I will get any this Summer.. good thing I idn't spend my spring working in my flower beds and investing all of the time and money to them, to have them look like poopie..Only good thing is the Apples will probably be beautiful again this year...We have so many apple orchards here, and LOVE goin Apple Pickin..

Anyhow, Friday I plan to post a sign up list for a special Swap/Challenge I am hosting, so keep your eyes open..

Stay cool, and dry..

Animal Neglect and Cruelty..Please read:

2009-06-26T23:44:00.007-04:00

Today it was brought to my attention by my Husband that a friend of his from work does volunteer work and gives money to help with abused animals..She is currently helping to care for a severely abused and neglected horse, that was removed from an Amish Farm..I will get to that story in a minute..
However, are you aware that the Amish people, for all of the good that they portray themselves to be, and how Godly they are, that many of them ( not all mind you but I said many) run Puppy Mills..Not only that, but they also treat animals with little love and care, and several of the animals that are rescued on a daily basis come from their farms? I did a Search online and if I were to read everything that came up on this subject, it would take me days. I was appalled, and sickened to no end. Please go to this site and do some reading:

http://cheddarbay.com/0000Amish/amish.html

And if you are as curious as I am, do your own search.. very disheartening to say the least...People can be so cruel to Animals who only ask to be loved, nurtured, treated with kindness and care..

Meet Simeone, she was taken from an Amish Farm, she is the horse that is mentioned in this excerpt from an email:

Hello to all our friends. Some of you we chat with almost daily and others of you we just know are out there if needed. We are finding that now we need each and every one of our friends more then ever.

Recently Double L Stable Equine Rescue and Sanctuary took in a young Saddlebred mare from a kill pen in central NY. We got a call from a friend in the area who spotted the sad emaciated mare among the other horses all destined to be shipped to Canada for slaughter. After much juggling of horses and careful planning we were able to commit to take the horse in. A private party (my wonderful Mom)! paid the horse's ransom to free her from the kill pen. This was done in honor of her mother who recently passed away and loved animals. It was a big surprise but a very welcome one. We named the mare Simone after my grandmother. Our group of handicapped young adults who helps out at the farm with volunteer work surprised me again by raising the money needing to cover the fuel to haul Simone home. Another friend donated some meds she we need. So far Simone has lots of friends and she needs every single one of them. Simone was a 1 on the body scoring chats. So thin you could see her ball joint in her hip rotate when she walked. Her face had been peeled off when a halter several sizes too small was removed. Her beautiful long red mane was tangled and full of snarls and knots. Her rotten fungus covered hide hung on her bones like a wet smelly blanket. To make matters worse for her, once we got her home we discovered it seems she has been beaten. Simone is safe now and will recover to be a lovely mare who will hold her head up proud once again. it is going to be long and very expensive road. This is where she needs the help of all her friends. We are asking everyone to post this at any message boards you might frequent, in your blogs, or on your favorite chat rooms.

We are asking people to send a get well card to Simone with a single $1 bill inside. Cards can be sent to:

Simone @ Double L 9
Tilford Rd. Argyle, NY 12809.

Double L Stable Equine Rescue and Sanctuary
Placement - Rehab - Sanctuary - Retirement
Abuse and Neglect - Slaughterbound - Ex-Racers

http://www.doublelstableequinerescue.petfinder.org/

Ten Commandments of Animals:

1) My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you will be painful to me. Remember that before you bring me home.
2) Give me time to understand what you want from me.
3) Place your trust in me - it's crucial to my well being.
4) Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You may have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I have only you.
5) Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice.
6) Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget.
7) Remember that before you hit me that I have teeth that can crush the bones in your hand. Yet I choose not to bite you.
8) Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, or I've been in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.
9) Take care of me when I get old. You too, will grow old.
10) Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch it" or "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, I love you!

Summertime..Lazy Days!!

2009-06-25T14:31:00.007-04:00

Whew...it sure is HOT here!!! I cannot stand this humidity...ICK!

we are never happy in the NE..LOL either it is too cold, or too hot..Lately it just seems we go from the Furnace to the Ac though..Very few nice days to open the windows and let in a nice breeze..Hopefully the Fall will be a nice one!

Just listed this gal on ebay..OOH I had such fun making her..

Summertime Sally

Listed some cute Sunflowers too, I just love Sunflowers:

Have a Wonderful Day...Stay cool...

Ahhhh...SUMMER !!!

2009-06-21T23:07:00.022-04:00

Ahhh, Summer begins...When I think of Summer, so many things come to mind:
Picnics

Ice Cream Cones

Fresh Fruit, Yummy Watermelon

Campfires, Fireflies

Birds Singing...Flowers Blooming..

Lazy Afternoons, and Summer Rains

And Sunsets

May You and yours Have a Beautiful Summer..Stop and Smell the Roses, enjoy a glass of cold lemonade, dip your Tootsies in a cool lake.. Life is too short not too..

Oh and lest I forget, check out my cute Faerie I just listed on Ebay! Tula Bell, In Celebration of Faerie Day!

Weds..what a pretty day!!

2009-06-17T13:32:00.005-04:00

this weather has been lovely..not too hot ( I hate hot weather and humidity) not too cool..I love the 70 degree days with a light breeze..perfect!

Been busy sewing, just finished up 3 dollys, 2 for my site:

And one for ebay that will be listed tonight:

I have a lot to do this week, sewing, painting, straightening, but wanted to pop in and say hi to all of my friends..have a great week!!

Another great Message:

2009-06-16T11:02:00.002-04:00

Got this one in my email today, and I LOVE it, so have to share, how wise this woman is..and all so very very true, if more people followed these rules, what a Wonderful world we would live in:

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio:
“To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written.
My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more.”

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past, so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have NO IDEA what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry, God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But, the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of YOUR business.
30. Time heals almost everything.. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile, and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come.
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Hello there !! Hey...I'm a B !!!

2009-06-12T18:25:00.006-04:00

I saw this in an email and liked it...so here I thought I would share with you:

BITCHOLOGY

When I stand up for
myself and my beliefs,
they call me a
bitch.

When I stand up for
those I love,
they call me a
bitch.

When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts
or do things my own way, they call me a
bitch.

Being a bitch
means I won't
compromise what's
in my heart.
It means I live my life MY way.
It means I won't allow anyone to step on me.

When I refuse to
tolerate injustice and
speak against it, I am
defined as a
bitch.

The same thing happens when I take time for
myself instead of being everyone's maid, or when I act a little selfish.

It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am
and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I 'should' be.

I am outspoken, opinionated and determined. I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that!
So try to stomp on me, just try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me.
You won't succeed.

And if that makes me a bitch,so be it.
I embrace the title and am proud to bear it.

B - Babe
I - In
T - Total
C - Control of
H - Herself

B = Beautiful
I = Intelligent
T = Talented
C = Charming
H = Hell of a Woman

B = Beautiful
I = Individual
T = That
C = Can
H = Handle 'anything'

I really like that..because ..yeah..I am a "Bitch", and proud to be one too..Spent too many years of my life being abused by family, mistreated by "friends" and stomped on..Now I am a strong, caring, outspoken woman, who sticks up for herself when she needs to, and who can be your best friend when I feel like you consider me one of yours..

So here's to all of us "Bitches"..

Yawn!!

2009-06-02T05:37:00.003-04:00

Hubby was snoring, so I have been up since 4..I cannot sleep through it, let alone anything else since my housefire years back..My ears hear everything..

So, I uploaded a few new dollys on my site, and added my friend Rosalie as the Artist of the month on there as well..stop on by my site and check it all out. ( you may find it listed on the right side bar)..

Planned to hit Wal-mart this morning, and Michaels, but I may have to postpone that trip another day..I have this rule..No Wal-Mart after 10 am, unless I have a dire, DIRE need..whatever I planned to get today can wait one more day. I plan to go back to bed here in a minute lol..I may venture out to Michael's later, after I wake up, and clean the kitchen up.

Have A Wonderul Day!!

What is it??

2009-05-30T19:51:00.010-04:00

I have to say, in all reality, people just amaze me..

First off..people get so bent out of shape over other people's lives..For example "Jon & Kate Plus 8"..Yes she is a bit bossy, yes, he may have cheated..but, in all reality, who cares?? it's THEIR life..NO One knows what life is behind closed doors, for any family..I came from a family that people thought was the kindest, most loving, wonderful family...But no one had to live in that house and see what ACTUALLY happened..and trust me, it was a NIGHTMARE. We were a far cry from the Brady Bunch..and the truth would turn your hair white..I mean, really. Stop believing all of the crap out there in tabloids and the web, and let people work things out in their own way..there are 8 children who are involved...Give it a rest.

Another thing...Don't people LEARN anything in High School any more?? Let alone College? I mean, really, lol..Watching Leno last night and he had some highlights from his "Jay Walking" on there..How could someone, born and raised a US Citizen not know how many stars are on our flag?? or, who the first US President was? or what the Declaration of Independence is? So many things I was APPALLED about on there..but then I think to myself, people can't even spell any more either..I don't mean typos, we all get those...but, I mean SPELL..for example..I see so many people saying "I will loose my mind" or "I need to loose some weight"...UM...DUH..LOOSE is a completely DIFFERENT THING THAN LOSE!!! You want to LOSE weight...You will LOSE your mind.. LOOSE is when a Screw is LOOSE, or a light bulb is LOOSE..or LOOSE as a GOOSE..of course, I have a relative that says Allergy for ALGAE.. again, completely different things...ALGAE is a FUNGI..an ALLERGY is something so many of us are having issues with this time of year..She says.."Boy there was so much Allergy on that water", and I just want to shake her and say "Don't you mean ALGAE?"..

There, I had to get that off my chest..I feel better now..
Sometimes these little things in life just really irk me..LOL I may just LOOSE...er..LOSE my Marbles..:)

Happy Sunday...Memorial Day Weekend!

2009-05-24T09:58:00.008-04:00

I planned to take some pics of my new yard for you, but it is rainy and poopy out there today, So I will have to do that tomorrow..They even hydroseeded!

Hope all of you have a wonderful day with family and friends. Not doing much here, back hurts today..Hubby has to work, so chillin.

Stop on by Back Porch Pickens Blog to see her fantastic giveaway!! You may find her link below in my Giveaway section.. Have a wonderful day, whatever you do with it!

Saturday!!!

2009-05-23T10:31:00.005-04:00

Well, we are finally getting some yard work done..They are laying the sprinklers now...did the landscaping yesterday, looks really nice..of course we will change it all out next year, to do it the way we want with tons of flowers and roses, but, it will work for now. I cannot wait to get the back yard started, with the fence, and the beds laid out for next year, I am making it a true bird haven..

I figured out that that other blue bird we have is a Barn Swallow. We have a ton of the Eastern Blue birds, but I could not, for the life of me, figure out that other one, as there are a lot of them too...We have tree swallows as well, but not as abundant as the others, they are cute...we also have red winged black birds, though, I imagine, once more houses get built this will not be the case..
Barn Swallow:

Also, please be sure to stop by this cute giveaway for this darling Bear...Sign up for a chance to win on Bear Bits...You may find the link below in my Giveaway list..:

Have a Great Saturday!

Hello Friends!!

2009-05-21T12:22:00.012-04:00

I have to apologize for being MIA lately..been so darned busy, and am trying to get some stock built up in my site now..Then we had to get the house together..and now I am trying to come up with some drapes for the dining room..We found some, but they were discontinued. So I am going to make my own, and hope the red homespun gingham I bought will look good..I think I may even cover the chair pads with the same fabric.

I finished this mammy last night and added her to Ebay, I think she turned out really cute, and sure do hope she gets a new home..I love her feet, she is darling in person!

And added a few new cuties to my site the other day..finally getting back into sewing..I really missed it!

Planted some flowers in pots, as we won't be able to plant in the yard this year..I will post a pic of that later this weekend. Oh and we have So many bluebirds here!! I am thrilled about that, I just love those birds..Cannot wait to get my yard set up with feeders, houses, etc. for all my feathered friends..

Have a Wonderful Day!!

Stop on by my Seller Blog..

2009-05-01T17:20:00.003-04:00

I just added a bunch of new dolls to my Selling Blog, which is listed on the right, or just go to:

http://www.hiddenfarmprimitives.blogspot.com

Lots of cuties on there..And this cutie will be listed on Ebay Sunday:

What a beautiful day...I wish my yard was in, so I could fill my feeders and watch the birds come to eat..I sure do miss that!! Have a Blessed Weekend!

WTG!!

2009-04-26T08:52:00.003-04:00

Well, THANKS to all of you for your votes..Sandi won first place with 22 votes..Denni won Second with 14..WTG LADIES!! Sandi gets a siggy from Carm's Graphics, and a Spray made by my friend Rosalie..Denni gets a spray as well..
Sandi's Dolly:

Denni's Dolly:

TY to all of you for participating and WTG again to the winners..

I do have 4 dolls in the works. Slow going as my room is not set up, I have to sit on boxes to use my machine and to paint LOL..But I feel back to normal being able to get creative..I must say, it seems when I go away from sewing for a while and come back to it, my dolls are even cuter..I will share this week, after I finish them and upload them to my site..

We have friends coming to bless the house Wednesday...Our Dining room set comes Tuesday. Our small table in the kitchen is the perfect size for in there, cute as can be..Busy Busy here..

Have a wonderful Sunday!!

Thursday...The voting begins!!

2009-04-16T11:01:00.003-04:00

Please be sure to place your votes here, for your favorite Challenge item, the gals and I at The Ol Country Home Forums decided to use Carm's Graphics as our inspiration this month Please be sure to vote for your favorite below:

Happy Easter..Many Blessings!

2009-04-12T08:08:00.011-04:00

Well, Finally, I am here...We moved in a week ago this past Friday, and I have been busy organizing and unpacking..SLOWLY getting life back to normalcy..

Scotty had a sick tummy the first day, but now he loves his new home...And we found a great groomer, so a week from tomorrow, he will have a long overdue day at the spa:

Slowly getting things put away..Some things have to stay in boxes until we get the kitchen furniture and dining room, which we plan to order this coming week..Hopefully that won't take too long..We sold/gave away most of our furniture when we moved.
Anyhow, I got my Swap yesterday in the mail from The Ol Country Home Easter basket Swap, TY TY Heather, of WillowLake Scents, ( her utton is on the right, in my sidebar/list) she spoiled me rotten:

And, Finally...Getting ready to bake my ham..I hope all of you have a wonderful, Blessed Easter..Say a prayer for all of those less fortunate than yourself, and God Bless everyone..

Sunday..This is OUR week...

2009-03-29T12:34:00.005-04:00

Scotty is saying "I want my new Home, Mom", as he watches the cows play across the street yesterday..they are cute cows, they love to chase one another around the yard..I get a kick out of watching them, sad in knowing where they are headed this Fall (they raise them to slaughter)..every year they buy 2, fatten them up, then slaughter them, poor boogers..

Anyhow, this morning I have been happy watching some ducks playing and feeding in a pond that has formed in the woods..I wish I could go over to take their pics, and feed them...I LOVE ducks LOL, they make me giggle to no end. The lake is still partially frozen, so they found the large pond formed when the snow melted..The woods are all muddy or I would head on over..

Anyhow, wish us major luck and prayers that we are moving in on Tuesday or Wednesday..I want my stuff lol and want my house...and we are ready to get this over..we still cannot believe the idiocy of people, and wonder about why they do what they do...

And, I want to get my CRAFT room back and get CREATIVE again...I have so many ideas in my head I want to try :) Anyhow, have a great day, whatever you do with it!

Be sure to stop by the Blog Giveaways to find this AWESOME Giveaway, WOO-Hoo, ALL kinds of goodies...You may find the link below, in the giveaway list:

Sigh!! maybe someday!

2009-03-27T20:38:00.003-04:00

Well, we STILL have not closed on our home..the gal at the bank has been causing a ruckus for us, and so someone else has taken things over and we should be in Tuesday, if things go as planned...this has been 2 weeks of STRESS, and Heartache for us, for NO REASON!! to tell all of the details would take a while, but let me just say, that some people really should NOT have jobs dealing with people, let alone at banks..what a fiasco..I think I have lost 10 pounds just from being sick with stress and grief..FINALLY we have someone COMPETENT helping us..

In the meantime, I deal with jealousy from people who really have no reason to be that way, and I am washing my hands of them as well..the one lady, she has had 3 new homes built in her life, you would think she would be happy for us..whatever..We will be glad when it is all over...I plan to buy us some Champagne for The night we move in, we DESERVE it, BIG TIME..

Anyhow just popping in to say Hi..have a great weekend :)

shweet doodles: New 3/27

2009-03-27T20:38:00.000-04:00

shweet doodles: New 3/27

Finally!!!

2009-03-18T17:17:00.006-04:00

Well, had our final walk today..house is gorgeous...We are so happy with how everything has turned out...I must say, lol I have excellent taste, if I do say so myself, as 98 percent of it was chosen by me! We either close this Friday, or Monday..So we have a LOT to do over the next few days, INCLUDING ordering a new mattress set..Here are some pics..Have a great rest of YOUR week..Guess my poor bunnies will have to get put away til next year, have not sold one set...very odd, as usually I sell a lot of Easter...times are tough..Blessings, Diana