I took down an old rabbit hutch I had on top of this cabinet, and started putting out all the nests we have collected here made from the horses hair and even our dog's long fur... mostly wrens' nests... with some of our favorite feathers... it needed something... some color... creativity...
inspiration via Country Living magazine...
we unearthed this plate while digging up the first perennial bed here...
and this plate is from my late grandmother...
instead of painting on the pumpkin like CLiving did, we chose to paint on the glass to create a 3-D art effect (when I say "we " I really mean my oldest daughter... she did a great job!)
a small collection of old glass bottles hold feathers and nests...
my youngest daughter painted this hurricane... it's a bird with a top hat... and I think it is super creative and super cute! the old silk top hat I traded with Polly at the 2010 October sale...
the best thing about this craft is that the glow of the candle illuminates the bird silhouettes and it is painted on with acrylic paint... so it washes right off with warm water... go HERE for the bird silhouettes — we cut out the birds we liked, taped them onto the glass, used a small brush to paint the outline around the bird, and then filled it in with the black paint — just use a regular old black acrylic paint The black birds are migrating right now, and their stop over at the farm has been noisy, but welcome.
The Master Bedroom Design Q(uestions) & A(nswers) was a BLAST! Wouldn't being a decorating reporter be so fun? I think so So many of you wonderful readers haven't asked me "why" I am re-decorating my bedroom with Jo and Lulu as design stylists... because it's obvious why! They both have great talent... What's my decorating motto for this bedroom: "un-decorate" Today's Q&A is with Jo, from the Secret Garden Cottage. Her and I have talked back and forth, because of the blogs, for quite some time, and as soon I saw her kitchen/dining area, even though it's a kitchen, it inspired me for my bedroom... and here's why:
All of Jo's Answers are in italicized print, and all pictures in this post are from Jo's beautifully inspiring blog. Here's the Q&A with one of the nicest women, Jo:
1) When you design your rooms, do you have a focal point? something that anchors the room? If so, it is usually art or architecture
A: Yes. I definitely always try to have a focal point in each of my rooms, usually architectural pieces. I don't use much art in my home, mostly because I have a hard time finding something I like 100%.
2) How do you achieve an understated feminine approach to your style? A: Well... I try to keep in mind that this is my husband's home, too, and wouldn't want to overwhelm him with too many floral prints, ruffles, or super feminine colors. I try to add a feminine touch to my decor with some of the furniture pieces I use, such as the table I recently bought and placed in my kitchen. It has some decorative scroll work and pretty, curvy legs. I also use flowers and herbs from the garden to add a little bit of romance to my home, as well as the slipcovered furniture and accessories, such as glass cloches, white ironstone pitchers, and candles.
3) what would you classify your style as? A: I think my style is very eclectic. I love French farmhouse, Scandinavian, and American country cottage styles, and I think I have a little bit of each style in my home.
4) how do you achieve an overall cohesive look to your home? A: Sometimes I fell like I struggle with this myself. I try to give my home an overall cohesive feeling by using the same color scheme throughout my home. I generally only use different shades of white in my decor, including my wall paint. I also try to purchase furniture pieces that work well together... have similar architectural lines and so forth.
5) If you were to design my bedroom, by knowing me personally, and seeing my style on my blog, while incorporating your style techniques, how would design my bedroom? what elements would you include in your design plan? A: Keeping in mind your personal style... I think that the one thing you like about mine and Lulu's style is the use of white in our decor, so I would give you an all white bedroom. I would use an architectural piece with white, chippy paint such as a vintage door(s) or fireplace mantle for your headboard. I've also noticed that you like warm wood tones in your home, so I would incorporate warm wood pieces of furniture, such as your night stands and maybe a vintage chest or bench (if room allows) at the foot of your bed. The bed linens you have would look beautiful in the room, but I would add a bed skirt to make it a bit more femine. I also noticed that you love vintage silver, which I think would look gorgeous in the bedroom in the use of accessories. I would dress the windows with sheer linen or cotton curtain panels that puddle on the floor just slightly and use tree branches for the curtain rods. Since your room is small, you would want to keep accessories to a minimum to give it a serene, peaceful feeling.
Anything else you would like to say?? I just want to thank you again for including me in your bedroom makeover, Anne Marie. I feel so honored that you would consider my ideas alongside Lulu's to inspire a room makeover in your beautiful home. You have such an amazingly beautiful style and creative mind, so I know this room will turn out to be the beautiful haven you desire, and I can't wait to see it when it's done!
Isn't she the sweetest?? I wish she lived closer to actually help me! How much fun we'd have... After I saw THIS POST she did, and she had quite a few of the same inspiration photos that I have in my design collection, I knew I would beg her to do this for me:) Tomorrow is my friend Lulu's Q&A with me... stay tuned! Hope you are all enjoying your week thus far!! peace and blessings,
I'm sure you are familiar with Jennifer at the Painted Cottage... but she posted this today and I love! this picture!! how creative and fun (not to mention the rest of her house looks gorgeous)
She's got great style and always has unique DIY ideas... thanks for the inspiration Jennifer!!
I'm even going to post again today — a little later — our Christmas card we sent out... xo+Christmas Blessings,
that picture is from a very talented and creative and SUPER sweet friend of mine: Julia please pop over to see her wonderful ideas for wrapping and I am so going to do this (and she herself has a great blog) HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! can you believe it's only a few days away??? how very exciting!!!!!!!!!! xo,
we are all thinking all the time pouring our coffee we are thinking... putting on our shoes we are thinking... combing our hair... cooking breakfast... spending the afternoon when visiting with our sweet Mom and Dad... when you tucked your child to bed tonight... you were thinking... we are constantly thinking...
what are you thinking about?? thinking is creative... you think about something and your actions will follow these actions are directly a result of the thoughts we are thinking what we think = who we are
believe + think you will do good you will do good
spend the rest of this week of Advent dedicated to creative thinking dedicated
spend each day this week in a bit of silence within yourself keep it simple think good
Holiday times brings out so much cheer!! Being that I am still up in the night with my little one does put a damper on the "cheer" factor some mornings, but today, I woke up, and all but the 14 yr. old (boy — still asleep) were outdoors playing in the fresh fallen snow... and this instantly cheered me up!
I love the seasons changing... and I have so many crafts/ideas going on inside our farmhouse that I can't wait to share with you!!!
Speaking of sharing: Jennifer Rizzo, designer/artist, contacted me to see if I wanted to share the inside of our farmhouse for Christmas decorating
gulp
a lot to do I must say... but I'm so excited to be in this line up...
starts Monday!! but I'm stop 9 (thank goodness)
do you need to feel more cheer right now?? then take a look at Jeanne's new look book at her blog — oh my goodness it is so amazing... completely so well put together and creative — her photography is so dang good I'm off to school the kids + have some coffee + and create!! (all three together;) peace + blessings,
the feeling of Christmas has started early here...
it started as soon as that wonderful smell of gingerbread was baking in my oven
what is it about these little guys that makes me chuckle? they are funny to me... little gingerbread people
i adapted an old recipe i had and am super happy with the way they came out... fluffy/thick/delicious!
i will be selling them all bagged up and ready for you at Christmas in the Alley this weekend in Sycamore
If you haven't been to Sherrie's store, A Ruffled Nest, it is completely all decked out for Christmas... as I have been over there helping her get things ready... all I can say is it is SO fun in there and having other dealers participate next door amongst the twinkly lights and live sounds of Christmas... going in and out of the old brick buildings while meandering through all the Christmas decorations... well... it's going to be so much fun I cannot wait!
My daughter has made the most delicious homemade hot cocoa mixes she has nestled inside vintage mugs that will be there for sale at Christmas in the Alley...
each mug with 2 generous helpings of cocoa for those chilly evenings (with mini marshmallows and a candy cane:) are $10 each
she has also made some snow globes from vintage mason jars! (I'll be sharing that tomorrow)
Jason has also been working on some terrific handmade/ hand carved gifts...
there are knives, baby spoons, honey dippers, serving spoons, buttons, lunch boards, cutting boards, rolling pins... We are so very excited to share these with you!!
more information on all of Jason's hand carved items and the other items, will be all up this week...
everyone is feeling creative... and getting back to crocheting and knitting in the early mornings before we start school...
there is always a hearty breakfast... and to see the kids work together like this every morning warms my heart more than any cup of coffee...
on a personal note, a new fitness regime has started... and it's due to how baby Daniel isn't snuggling up to his Mama to nurse any longer... it's always such a sad time for me... I already miss him warm in my arms... his independence is surfacing... as is his personality!! He has this laugh that is hilarious... like a sneaky laugh "hah hah"... if I can catch him, I'll record it, because it cracks me up...
he'll sit there in my bedroom and hide from me... I'll say "where's Daniel... I don't see him anywhere??" and I hear in the closet a slight "hah hah"...
I don't know what is going to be more time consuming for me this week; preparing for Advent or baking for Christmas in the Alley
I have been changing up the decorating around here too... it's been a lot of fun putting up new curtains... moving furniture... totally changing up my bedroom too...
sharing all of it in good time...
hope you all had wonderful Thanksgiving weekend... we all needed that break around here!!!!
I recently read an article about homeschooling that I thought was pertinent... The writer said that she would love to remove her kids from public school due to the quality of education... and she went on to say 'but I don't want to end up in a denim jumper'... laughter was not what followed after I read that, but a true sense of understanding... (and I personally don't think there is anything wrong with a denim jumper... they hide many bodily flaws and are very modest)... Contrary to the "stereotype" this lady was trying to get a point across that the face of homeschooling is changing... more and more parents are removing their children from the public schools to educate at home for many reasons... We are very happy with the educational material we use with our children, however, I plan on taking even more time for more fun... more creative fun I love me a schedule, and I'm not changing that, but I also love spontaneity... When our son comes up to me during lunch break while I'm crocheting and wants to learn how to do the treble crochet, I do it When my youngest daughter starts singing, I set my guitar down to listen to her open up her lungs and heart to song When my oldest daughter has questions on life/friends/horses, I set down my own crochet and listen carefully and we talk
my new little favorite corner of the world when you are going with the groove of homeschooling, that means you embrace the day and thus will embrace your children... their dreams... embrace the day peace + blessings,
never before have I given a whole area to a dealer "in the shop" at the event... but this time I did to Jennifer Rizzo... this has been her third sale here... and her most successful!! She had the space with the vintage tea cups hanging from branches... that created this whimsical perspective on vintage tea... her new line is a reflection of vintage iron stone... patinae silver trays... funky coffee mugs... she had this throw for sale that was a crocheted afghan with hand crocheted flowers bunched and adorned everywhere (sold right away)
actually, most of what she had for sale sold... she had THE COOLEST funky orange tufted couch (with sold right away)... like an antrho catalog it was... she had hats, fingerless gloves, these super cute tea towels with pom pom fringe and hand embellished prints of birds... let's just say she's a busy girl trying to re-stock her shop right now... she has some new items listed and will be doing so all week and I for one, cannot wait to get my hands on a hat and some jewelry... if you know Jen, you know her funky vintage side and creative soul and how they come together on this new line... oh! she has a giveaway... I almost forgot!! Go here to enter... thank you to you all who have taken the time out to email me about your experiences here on the farm at the sale... I have had such a good time this week reading them... it means so much to me!!! peace + blessings,
my heart is completely strong and beating within me for you all visiting this weekend
if i could show you my heart, it would be cracking my rib bones from the swelling of love for this event
i love it
i love the excitement, the stress, the organization, the emails, the phone calls...
i seriously (seriously) can say i do not care if it rains, snows, hails, or if the sun shines bright
all i care is that i make this a place for you to take time to enjoy
enjoy this gift of life that God has given you...
to hear the symphony of blessings amongst the prickly thorns
to look upon the land and see the glorious nature and feel the softness of the grass as it sways
that the time here you spend is not for you, but to glorify
glorify the One who gave it to you
a thankful embrace of the autumn splendor which our (oh so needs work) farmette has
you will never find grandeur here
don't expect a marvelously weeded bed with clean stalls and immaculately clean children
we live a real life and within that real life is a chorus of praise for what we have no matter how much work it is, or the amount of dirt that gets under our fingernails
no matter how much we try, it never (ever) is the way we dream it will be
not one thing in this life is perfect not one but it's ours... it's our home... a place we have settled down
all i care is that i make this a place for you to take time to enjoy... somewhere to come with friends or your mom...
to come say hi in the bakery where i will be with my sister, daughter, and dear friend...
to pick out something special i baked with you in mind
to get a cup of coffee and sit beneath the branches in my 'natural bakery' and listen to the live music and chat... dream... relax...
this takes a lot of work
a lot of effort on all our parts — all the dealers sitting in their creative spaces and making one of a kind creations that they love and want to share... the hours of painting and refinishing the furniture... the excitement of finding vintage flannels all around the Midwest to compliment your favorite tall boots and leggings...
work within the families coordinating time for their mom to go out with her friends
effort to save up money to enjoy some shopping to ruffle your nest
the drive out to our farm
it means more than you all know having you here and helping support those men and women who are amazing creators and artists
Congratulations Amy!!! you won the ART on the Farm Giveaway!!
here's Amy's comment: {Amy} said... This sounds like the coolest thing ever, what a generous give-away. And I am in Illinois... I could actually do this. This is just what my creative soul is looking for right about now! blogged:: http://amyluckynumber13.blogspot.com/2011/09/hello-there-fall.html
-visit Amy's totally cute blog by clicking on the above picture-
(I love meeting new people!)
Here's what you'll be getting... ~ 2 seats (so bring a friend!) to all the art classes here on the farm + a ~ FREE night's stay in the 4star Holiday Inn Express just minutes from the farm!! (and you'll get some little goodies from me too) ~Greg Wheaton (palying here Friday night at 5-8pm) wanted to participate in this giveaway as well, and he is giving you one of his CD's Amy!!! This man is playing at the Hard Rock Cafe this next week in Chicago... he's no ordinary guitar player — he's extraordinary -
This was so much fun hosting this giveaway — and it was all from the generosity of Jeanne, Jill, and Jennifer there are a few seats available still in all classes (at least, last time I checked!) so please make sure you sign up today if you are thinking of coming... and OH! good news!! The hotel is allowing the special pricing of $97.75 still apply up until next Friday!
What's so amazing about these art classes, is that you are amongst nature when you are here it's so peaceful, and it allows your creative side to flourish under the direction of your teacher All three of those women teaching are amazing artists! and are so willing to open up this opportunity for you to come and create/shop/listen/eat:) If you are 'on the fence' for coming to take a class, just remember how important it is to allow God's gifts to you come through... and sometimes that might just mean learning a new technique... it might just be exactly what you need to get you going in a new artistic direction, or You could be like me, and pick up a paintbrush and draw giant feathers on the wall, to which I don't paint, don't draw, just sketch garden plans and hog houses or a simple skirt or dress on paper... but it was the most unexplainable time being in "that mode" Jill is making that weekend even MORE special! take a look:
click on image to sign up for one of Jill's classes we all have a busy life, let's take some time out of that life to enjoy it
peace + blessings,
I so wish I could give you all a giveaway like this... thanks to everyone who entered...
The event this year is coming together so nicely... meant to be on so many levels...
totally random photo... he's just too cute not to post today...
There is so much more I wanted to include in the flyer, but there simply wasn't enough room!!
the entry fee on Friday night is waived when you bring your ticket (handed to you Friday night) back Saturday (if you plan on attending the event both days)
part of the proceeds both days benefit a local charity — Hope Haven -
there are more and more homeless individuals... but not enough room at their building... but we can help them (to make a more substantial donation, visit their website here)
Making a difference in other people's lives is so important on so many levels... and community needs to stick together
that's the primary reason why Jason and I host this event on our farm
to help support many different local artists, antique dealers, musicians, etc.
My focus for the sale is baking from scratch and selling those yummies in my little 'farm bakery' in the barn...
ART on the Farm classes have begun registration and you can see more about those classes here (or on my sidebar)... seats are limited, so please register soon
If coming from out of town, I am so thrilled that the Holiday Inn Express has created a room block and ALL rooms are the same price for you!! even the King Executive Suites!! to see more go here
This is a lot of information I know, but so much needs to be said when it comes to this event... there is much more to it than just stuff on tables or haystacks... it's all our creative efforts joined together to both inspire you and to give you the opportunity to purchase all HANDMADE and USA made items crafted by our hands — all of us involved...
Here's an idea: Gather a few of your friends that you haven't seen in awhile, or that you see all the time and love being around... create a closer connection to them by planning a trip to the farm... here's even a little something for you to send them in your e-mail...
If you gathered the "three of you"... split the hotel room ($97.50) three ways... it's only: $32.50 per person! This is an event I don't want you to miss! Take Jill's jewelry class Friday night, go shopping afterwards, go back to your plush hotel room, have a few cocktails, laugh and giggle, tell stories and eat some snacks while watching a movie... the next morning, grab a cup of coffee (and their famous cinnamon rolls at the hotel) and head back to the farm just after the sun rises to walk the prairie (rain or shine) to Jen's class to learn how to create a unique art under glass creation with the inspiration you will find on our farm and in the back 3 acre prairie... shop some more and enjoy a class by the famous artists Jeanne Oliver from Colorado... she is teaching two classes that are both unique and beautiful to create under the skylights in the horse barn... don't forget to grab a few cupcakes and sit under the trees and enjoy the farm!! (that sounds like a great weekend if you ask me) bringing your blankets to picnic or relax out in the prairie is highly encouraged:) xo+blessings,
The October event is right around the corner... Jason and I are working hard to make the event special and unique for everyone visiting (October 7th and 8th) Part of the uniqueness to this past spring's event was hosting an art class with teacher/artist Jeanne Oliver. The class filled up quickly and a creative fun time was had by all who attended. (you can visit here to see photos of the past art class) Creating... within an atmosphere of farm life... sharing... inspiration... memories together... on the prairie under the skylights in the horse barn, and the sounds of the horses and chickens in the background, you will be able to learn from her artistic abilities with and these lovely ladies will be here on the farm to guide you in this process... teach you how to create
~Jeanne Oliver ~ if you have met Jeanne, you will automatically have a smile on your face... Jeanne is not only creative, but such a peaceful soul — so joyful — and it's one of the qualities I admire and aspire to be myself... and having her back to the farm to teach 3 classes this October 7th and 8th is so exciting...
Vintage Art Journal Class (12-2:30pm) Saturday, October 8th
You will take a variety of vintage elements and create a beautiful and usable art/writing journal. You will start with a vintage book and alter it to include vintage elements that make it reflect your own personal style. Each journal will be full of vintage papers and watercolor paper. All supplies will be provided but you are free to bring anything personal you would like to add. You will learn how to stamp onto metals and leathers, different photo transfer processes and mixed media techniques. You will also learn beginning art journaling techniques so you can start filling your journal with your own art. All of my classes give clear step by step directions. Even if you have never created art before you will leave with not only a new piece of art but the knowledge to continue your own art at home. $58 ($50 if taken with the vintage mixed media art class)
Vintage Mixed Media Art Class (3-5pm) Saturday, October 8th You will take a canvas and vintage elements to create a finished mixed media art piece. Each piece will include vintage papers, charcoal, pencil, paint and vintage hardware. You will learn different photo transfer processes, mixed media techniques and how to use water soluble pencils to create beautiful art. All supplies will be provided. You will leave with a completed vintage mixed media art piece on a door plate (escutcheon) stand. All of my classes give clear step by step directions. Even if you have never created art before you will leave with not only a new piece of art but the knowledge to continue your own art at home.
$58 ($50 if taken with the vintage art journal class)
To sign up for any of Jeanne's classes, send her an email at jeanneoli@hotmail.com with subject line: NaDa Farm Art Class
~ Jennifer Rizzo ~ Most of you already know that I love this girl... and how much she has been a part of the last events...
I'm so excited to have her coming to teach 2 very unique classes!
Reflections of the prairie mixed media art class (9-11am) Saturday, October 8th
Bring your coffee and join in on a two hour class where we will create a mixed media mirrored art piece made from a magnifying glass using paper, decoupage medium and the inspiration of the peaceful surroundings. It starts with the 15 minute prairie walk/meditation to gather inspiration. Suitable for all skill levels, Each student will leave with a completed, unique art piece.
$38.00
To sign up for any of Jenifer's classes, send her an email at thecraftyhome@comcast.net with subject line: NaDa Farm Art Class
~ Jeanne and Jen are teaching another class together ~ (1.5 hours 7:30 — 9 pm Friday, October 7th) There is such joy in simply creating, but there is something so fulfilling about being able share it with others as well. Have you always wanted to find ways to let your artwork shine or create paths to promote your unique creations? This mini-class will cover ways to: -Remove the fear and take the steps you need towards being published in national magazines -Learn about the ease and tricks for opening an on-line Etsy or Web store -Get hints and information about what you need to open a booth in a co-op space or antique store -Sell or consign your items wholesale to retailers And more….. $18 It includes 1 hour of pure information and ½ hour of Q and A time. Hosted by Jeanne Oliver and Jennifer Rizzo to sign up for this class, you can contact either Jennifer or Jeanne ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Jill Harris ~ Traveling from the shorses of Jersey to the farm!! This super talented lady is coming back to the farm to not only sell her one of a kind wares, but also teaching a jewelry class
Jill's class will be Friday, October 7th from 4-7pm
To sign up for Jill's class, you can contact her at: gypsyfleamarket@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Hotel discount information is coming soon!-
Can't wait to see you all again!!! and meeting some new people too...
indecision can overwhelm you like a swarm of bees you can say your fine, like reading a newspaper (does anyone do that anymore?) pack up your things and get ready to go somewhere do something with this life of yours all these 37 years I have been using my mind when I now am ready to use my soul see through my soul be forever connected with the Maker of my soul I am ready to fly in anticipation going to the mailbox to find a sweet letter of thanks from a friend across the miles the anticipation grows my eyes notice the details and heart that went into the packaging the creativeness from one soul to another ready to go (you know who you are sweet Texas)
told myself that what is practical is fine ordinary is what is normal when my world shakes a bit all from my instability it's not a place where I will fall
I am ready to fly what I thought was shaking knees, is just preparation to get up and go more strength for each passing day it happens quickly for others, but this timid soul hasn't been ready until now here I go
The weight of life is not set upon a child's fragile shoulders — their burdens are noticed by the all of a sudden long legs, crooked smiles and voice changes...
They may not be ready for marriage, but they are ready for life, and it will be upon them in a few long steps — their bodies are almost completely ready, but their minds are wondering, learning... being a teenager I was surprised to see these young adults engage in Camp of the Setting Sun...
I wasn't going to be upset or convince (at least my son) them to go if they didn't want to...
yet — they participated in all the games I came up with, wore the silly t-shirts I made, and were a part of the group of 13 children that were in camp... The history of this camp started when the oldest cousin was 5... I happened to be at "grammy's" when she was watching him for an overnight stay... he was with a play bow and arrow walking around outdoors... and a talk from his "Aunt Anne" explained how Native Americans used to hunt for food upon this land near the 'great river' (etc etc) We talked all about being outdoors — the moment is captured forever in my mind
I ran indoors, grabbed a few hot dogs, wrapped them in aluminum foil tightly, placed them in the tall grass prairie and the little hunter of 5 years old went into the wild of the land and the wild imagination of his creative mind, and hunted for his food... he found them all, unwrapped them and relished in his mighty victory
He asked us if this was camp... "yes... it sure is"
He now sits behind a desk in the Navy studying to be on a nuclear submarine — still holding protection — and learning... a gentleman at 20
Seeing the eyes of his ten month old brother, in his mother's arms, this week brought back memories of those carefree days of no children — just dating Jason — and so many memories of camp
I relayed this story of Camp of the Setting Sun, to another brother of his, 5 years old, to his delight, while his eyes opened wide and listened to this true tale -
I don't know this little 5 year old brother well — since they live in South Carolina and were only visiting for two weeks... plans for camp emerged... per Grammy's request... it was time again... after a 5 year break for this camp leader,Aunt Anne, it was almost a necessity
=games =laughter =togetherness =memories =gone for the day hiking =a jaunt to the park =tents and sleepy children the next morning =hot dogs
3 teenage boys were dubbed camp counselors this year... instead of holding hand held games they embraced life and left the nearby steps to manhood behind and captured their childhood one last time
tears upon this journal
one day I will be able to talk to the teenage boy of mine... not today... tears prevent my clarity of speech
did I help them upon their journey? to embrace their connection with eachother... embrace the love that out pours from their Grammy?? heaven only knows how much she loves them no amount of smores could express this... but the sweetness of camp was anything but boring
"the alumni"
these young women are now officially out of camp, but hiked down to 'the great river' with all the kids =the perfect ending= (p.s... thanks girls)
the word boring never came up like Grammy says... "only boring people are bored"
burdened with life's cares cripples not only your mind but your soul
I'm sure you have seen pictures of and art (especially recently) of birds being released from a cage, or your hands cupping something sacred or fragile
that is because life is so very fragile
the more I "Get Back into Life" the more fragile it seems... more special... more sacred... more beautiful...
beneath the piles of "to-do's" there is a joy... I don't always have the best way of showing that towards others the way I perceive it would be shown
I have this pre-conceived idea of frolicking in the field while jumping... the sun's rays streaming through and hitting and capturing the moment as I am suspended in time of complete and utter joy with no thoughts of anything bad
yes, fairy tale like... or I should say, heaven like
I think this is why so many of us can relate to the current trend of creativity being shown by so many creative women across the world... with their linens hooped tight in their wooden embroidery circle as the needle punches through and makes that satisfying "pop" to their centuries old embellishment technique or modern day free form applique...
relating to the artist with her music of Adele playing just loud enough to hear the kids if need be, her coffee steaming in her favorite mug on that rustic art table she picked up at the flea as her desk is strewn with mixed media... creating
finding the relationship between the beautiful blossoms of the pear grove near their home and capturing a surreal and pretty moment in time by styling a pretty picnic to share with others by publishing a post on their blog...
even if we don't possess these qualities of creativity, we appreciate them
even when we don't have a lick of talent except how to order a 'cafe mocha' and peruse the flea with friends, we appreciate them
appreciating others talents and seeing that brief moment of spark and exclaiming to ourselves or the good friend we're with "oh! I love that!"
that's why
we "love that" because it resonates with something we all share... beauty...
instead of letting this become heavy upon our shoulders that we don't have that person's talent, we snatch their creativity up, and enjoy setting in our home or give it as a gift
this is absolutely the reason why I love doing what I am doing at present...
I may not possess much talent, but I have this ability here on our farm to allow others to bring their beauty to you
this all sounds like a big info-mercial now, and go ahead and take it that way if you are cynical or jealous
but I love this sale and bringing joy to you through inspiration and beauty
I am so very pleased to tell you all that over 20 different people will be here at the sale in May selling their beauty and creativity...
what started as something out of my garage with one neighbor and a few family members the week after the barn burned, to a talked about event from coast to coast in magazines and on the net is a living testimony of the power of positivity, creativity, and the overall community support for local art and products
Wherever you live, visit a local barn sale or flea market... grab that friend or sister or loved one and enjoy the inspiration, beauty and love for amazing local talent.
How do you battle pride? with humility... so let's take a look...
Looking upon people with my heart, and not my mind…
The one thing I really cannot fathom is ridiculing others for their appearance…whether it is clothing, facial hair, tattoos, hair style, etc… This has nothing to do with race or nationality…seriously…can we get pass that racism already? It’s 2011…….
At times, it is awfully difficult to look past this fault in others. Some people (always women – never my male friends) tend to do this ridicule of appearance…like they are perfect or something? That is something we should all keep in mind: they aren’t perfect either…NONE of us are…. (and personally... I learn more from my husband, or men sometimes, than women- when's the last time you heard your husband or male friend ridicule others about appearance? or downgrade someone?) So instead of looking upon someone who might be “out of style” or has age spots on her face (heaven forbid) look at them with your heart…all of us are special in God’s eyes…no matter what we look like on the outside… Pride is the biggest drawback to becoming a better person…it’s the hardest to get over… You aren’t so special Anne Marie…no matter who tells you this *you aren’t so special... not yet*
Today’s society has really drilled this into us when someone is good looking, successful, creative, or even a good baker: that when you are successful at something you are so special Really?
Do you really think that you are so special because you can do these things? then everyone else who doesn't have your good of a talent... what are they?? If you consider yourself special because you have these talents/gifts, then you might possibly be looking upon others as ‘not special’ and will put them down, even mentally this will not be a good thing…..we should always look upon others for who they are — regardless of talent or creativity Yes, this talent you have, or worked at enhancing is unique, but who gave you this gift? but beware... "A man is never so proud as when striking an attitude of humility" — C.S. Lewis this means that you can't just act like you are humble... you have to actually live it Until you start thanking the One who gave it to you, you aren’t special….
SO: Take 5 minutes today and tell God ‘thank you’ a deep sincere thank you for life... for this opportunity to grow... for me to let go of pride...
*now you are special* in the One's eyes that really matters
that's one step closer to true happiness
xo+blessings,
(picture via Beth Quinn designs... I love wearing those earrings) (fun tidbit on the peacock... it's both a symbol of pride & God's eye)
As Anne, from Fiona and Twig, so eloquently said on her recent post... "we have a responsibility to support local businesses"
You all know how we had a CSA for a time... but how the garden space is devoted, as of now, to our growing family... but how I am in full support of helping fellow farmers (of organic practices) of both vegetables and meat This "local thinking" doesn't stop with food... but for shopping too!! Even though you may never visit these shops I have been featuring this week for the Boho-Ball here on the farm in May, I am truly hoping that you help support YOUR local businesses too... there are always great stores nearby that feature unique items — of both old and new - MOXIE is one of them for me
Megan Morrison is so sweet and so creative... and her shop always has things in it that I like to buy..
from bags to jewelry... to new clothes to this...
DO YOU SEE ALL THAT LOVELY VINTAGE CLOTHING?? some great stuff... shoes that would rival any Anthropologie store!
Megan is ALSO doing a 20% OFF discount on any vintage clothing and accessories at her shop for the Boho-Ball!! (mention you are going to Farm's Boho-Ball) Thanks Megan! HAPPY SHOPPING!! (and a special thanks for your beautiful model:) (and Jenn took all the pictures once again... because her friend was immobile with an enormous child in her tummy... how's that for a good excuse eh?) I forgot to mention that both Cracker Jax and Moxie are only 15 minutes from the farm (make sure you visit them both when you visit the farm too)
I DID HAVE A GIVEAWAY... BUT NOW IT IS CLOSED... *THANK YOU*
NOW until April 20th for the following items sent from Jo Packham herself!
2 Where Women Create Magazines 2 Where Women Cook Magazines 1 Where Women Cook CELEBRATE Book 1 bookmark:) from me: 1 Where Women Cook Magazine (current issue) (featuring my Family Style Homemade Pizza and Potager Pie) surprises tucked all in the box:) since there is no such thing as luck: Godspeed!!!no need to be a follower or whatever you only have ONE CHANCE ONLY LEAVE ONE COMMENT PER PERSON xo+creative blessings,
