Mustard Seed Originals

Thank God it's Over

2011-12-31T12:21:00.000-08:00

How many of you are glad to see 2011 bite the dust? I know I am. This past year has been crazzzy! Not even including the economy, just personal stuff.

2012 starts our new life together in Arizona, well eventually. We can't wait to get out of California and onto the 3rd stage of our lives!!! Yippeee. We will be around all of our children and grands, finally!

I've listed more designs on Ebay that I'd like to share with you.First is this old worn raggedy

then there's an adorable snow Queen you'll love

Then a great collector's item is this snowmomma and babes

Another snowperson, however this time it's a father pulling his daughter on a sled

and lastly is this awesome Valentine doll that could be left out yearround shouting LOVE

Be sure to check them all out on ebay HERE .

Also tonight is the new update for TDIPT Mercantile for 2012. I have a preview of my newest offering on that site.

It's an adorable mother Rabbit anxiously waiting for Spring to plant her new garden but meanwhile has discovered some vegetables that were from last years garden that survived.

Check out my TDIPT page HERE Be sure to refresh your browser so you see the current issue.

I will also be updating my Etsy page HERE

and my website as well as discounting some items so be sure to check back frequently for some great steals! Click HERE to see all my great new designs.

On another note, I have had the privilege of having my Pumpkin Lady "Madge" featured in Stampington's newest PRIMS magazine on page 70.

She will be available for sale shortly. When I receive her back from the magazine. So keep a watch on my site for her.

Lastly I'd like to share a new pattern that I just released that has been a hoped for with alot of folks.

The pattern is $12.00 plus $1.00 for shipping. You can order it on my website. It's sure to be a great seller at all your selling avenues.

That's about it this New Year's Eve. I pray that next year will bring a fresh new start for all of us. I'm hoping for a BIG change in our government to get us back on track to a good, solvent nation once again. God Bless the USA and God Bless you!

"Santa's Coming to Town"

2011-12-14T12:17:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for the jolly old man to visit you yet? I'm not. Actually it's kinda hard to get into Christmas when there's no little ones around your home anymore.I hate the way it's so commercialized anymore.

I've moved on from designing for Christmas to thinking of Valentine's Day and Spring. However, I do have several new Winter offerings on Ebay currently that I know you'll love. First is Daddy and Patty, a Winter Snow design of daddy pulling Patty on her sled through the winter storm. Here's a peek of them.

Aren't they an adorable couple? Too darn cute.

Then there's a primitive Winter Snow Queen with a hand hooked snowman magic wand.

Isn't she adorable? She's primmed but whimsical all in one! Don't miss out on her.

Then lastly on Ebay I have my newest design just off the line called "1802 Winter". A winter scene of a snow momma holding little Junior and pulling her antique wood sled with a tree through the winter snowstorm.

This is my absolute favorite design. All at great low starting bids! Check them all out HERE

Then I have to tell you about my newest designs just listed on Etsy HERE that you are going to love!

There are new angels called "Bedpost Angels"; Herman the rabbit; Valentines day items, great miniature perfectly aged and primmed bears wearing vintage quilt style dresses and more!

Watch for more stuff to be listed tomorrow, December 15th.

Also I have a Valentine's Day Doll offering on PFATT Marketplace this month as well HERE called Valentina. She can also be put on layaway>email me for info.

I really wish it would snow. They were calling for snow the other day but it didn't happen. We rarely get it here in the high desert region of California, but when we do, it's awesome. I know alot of you are sick and tired of snow already..just blow it out here, we'd love to have some. There's just something calming about being outside during a snowstorm. I recall as a child going outside at night to play in the snow and looking up at the sky and the snow falling gently down, all was calm just like the silent night song. I used to stick my tongue out and let the snowflakes fall on it and eat um hehe but I do recall there wasn't a sound and how peaceful it was. That has stuck with me all these years.

I grew up in Pennsylvania where we used to get lots of snowstorms and snow drifts way high. I took that for granted when I moved away in 1972 and now would love to visit in Winter again. Maybe someday.

Well gotta run and head back to work. Thanks for stopping to read

Christmas is Coming!

2011-12-04T10:15:00.000-08:00

Yep! It's right around the corner and will be here before we know it. I will only be listing items on ebay till probably the week of the 12th, that's Christmas items. There might be some Valentine and more snowy items tho, so stay tuned.

Wanted to share with you all my latest ebay listings that have LOW starting bids. First is Santa Claus with is decorated tree in a wooden sled and a peaceful white dove in a nest of greenery.

Now isn't he a cutie? Be sure to check out the slideshow below for great closeups of the uniqueness of these designs.

Then comes Sunbright Snowball who is dressed in a blue winter scened dress with lots of snow and german glass glitter and glitz and mica flakes. She holds a great star ornament which could be used separately or hung on your Winter tree till Spring.

I would really appreciate you taking a look at my auctions. Please remember to support your favorite Artist of Handmade in USA designs. This helps to create jobs for Americans when they otherwise wouldn't be able to find any jobs for one reason or another.

On another note, I am requesting prayer for our family. If you are a follower of my blog, then you know the headaches we've had with my dd's exhusband and custody of our grandson. Well he did not return him from his weekend custody yesterday (as he had a plane ticket) and is causing all kinds of headaches for our family now, once again. So looks like we will be heading back to Court once again. Please pray for wisedom, empathy from the Judge who has always been on her ex's side to truly see how manipulating he is once and for all and bring some punishment so he gets the message that he can't treat my dd with name calling, cursing and swearing constantly to and about her and make him responsible for the bills that he is supposed to pay. He has not followed the Court order at all but expects us to bring our grandson back (350 miles) 2 times a month to see him at our expense! And my daughter isn't even making as much as he is. Furthermore, the wage garnishment is a joke! He has a way of working around it with his boss so that she only gets a small portion of what he should be paying, yet he has a new car..it just goes on and on and my nerves are shattered.

He even got in my face at the airport the other day when I simply said something to him that I didn't like the way he talked to my dd. He was lucky my dh wasn't there or he would have gotten decked for sure. He has totally changed. Nothing like he used to be and I think that is in part because he married a hot headed witch who hates my daughter, even though she doesn't even know her and is acting like a loon. Please pray they both grow up!
Anyways I will continue to pray that he goes away somewhere..maybe his job can transfer him overseas or something. But something has to give! And my poor grandson is probably wondering why he hasn't gone back to Arizona with my dd. Who knows what his dad is telling him. I hate to think that.

Oh well didn't mean to get on that subject but it's close to my heart and we really need prayer to bind all this anger and resentment etc he has for us up.

Thanks for listening

Shopping Anyone?

2011-11-25T11:08:00.000-08:00

Not me. No way, there's nothing I need so bad that I'm willing to fight pepper spray, or being trambled! People are desperate, I suppose. Especially in these tough times where we are trying to stretch a buck as far as it will go.

Want to give you a heads up about our TDIPT Group Launch called "Winter Wonderland" on Ebay which is to start this Sunday.

I'm sure they'll be lots of great Winter and Christmas designs to be had with wonderful old fashioned look and feel along with some whimsy too. I'm not sure if I'll have mine up before Sunday since I will be unavailable that day or the day after, but I plan to be offering something for your bidding pleasure with a low starting bid, so please plan to check out my ebay page to see.

This is definitely sure to make the giver of this gift the talk of the exchange!

On another note, how was your Thanksgiving? Mine was good. My daughter and her boyfriend joined us for dinner. I'm glad I decided to cook, although my husband said to not bother. Secretly I knew he was just saying that for my benefit, as he loves to have leftovers. I do as well. Besides now I won't have to cook for a few days lol.

Well it's back to work for me. Thanks for taking the time to stop and read.

November News

2011-11-12T21:33:00.000-08:00

Howdy everyone! I'm in Arizona today but leaving tomorrow to head home. We had to come and finish moving our daughter into her new apartment. She was able to move alot of the stuff herself but we had to get the big items over by truck.

She's really settling in and adjusting. She starts her new job tomorrow at The Gap Warehouse here in Arizona. She was hired as christmas help but they will be keeping some of the workers on fulltime. She's only to get 1 month of work but at least it's something and the pay isn't shabby either.

I can't believe how many jobs there are here. You wouldn't even get an interview where we live in California.

I just cannot wait to move here..it's so much better all around for us to move here. Especially for my aches and pains with fibromyalgia and my back pain. I decided this weekend that I'm getting a calendar and I'm counting down the days till we can finally move over here.

It will be sad leaving tomorrow but I have to get back home cuz I have loads of work w/my business.

We will see them again in a few weeks for Thanksgiving. My daughter and grandson are flying over but he will be with his father and she will fly back on Saturday after Thanksgiving because she has to work on Sunday and we will drive our grandson home after his visit with dad. This is a VERY costly mess with us having to have the total brunt of the expense of getting him to California and back to Arizona, twice a month, plus mom works on Sundays and that's the day she's supposed to pick him up from Dad to drive home or fly. It just is so unfair that father isn't having to help out with this transportation. We are trying our best to follow the Court order but you can't get blood out of a turnip and the well does dry up.

I know the Lord is on our side and will continue to be. He (father) needs to grow up and also stop being so petty over stupid things. He has never taken REAL responsibility for his son since he was born! But expects to have all the rights as a father! What makes it worse is that sucky California lets him get away with it!! Yet he'll threaten my daughter that he will file paperwork that she is in contempt of the Court Order, but he hasn't followed his part! Oh well we may just be going back to Court. Please pray that we can get a change of venue here for her and have it heard before a different judge who doesn't have any connection to the evaluator that the stupid Judge we had thinks "walks on water."

Okay I'll get off my soapbox.

Is it snowing where you live? I grew up with snow in Pennsylvania till I graduated. Never thought that I would never move back there. I do miss the snow alot in the winter..especially around the holidays. Occasionally we get "wanna be" snow in California but it's not like back east.

Have you checked out my items for sale on Etsy lately? I have been listing alot of smaller items that are great for stocking stuffers or exchange gifts. They are all at great low prices too.

Us girls at TDIPT are talking about a group launch soon on Ebay so stay tuned regarding that.

Please remember to support you favorite American made artists this holiday season. We are all hurting in this economy and appreciate all the support you can give.

Well it's late here and I'm the last one up. I better hit the hay. Till later

Giving Thanks

2011-11-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

This is the month that we give thanks for all that the Lord has blessed us with. I have alot to be thankful of. The Lord has blessed my family and although we might not see it often enough, he is always watching and protecting us.

A new chapter has opened in my life book and my daughter's. She obtained a job in Arizona and will start on November 11th. It's supposed to be for holiday help, however, they did say that they will be hiring some people on permanent afterwards. Please pray that my daughter is able to continue working there, or that she is able to find a good phlebotomy job where she will have off on weekends so that she can be able to follow the court order regarding shared custody of our grandson.

There are so many jobs over here verses where we live. Our daughter in law was able to get a permanent parttime job at anna's linens too. The plan was for our dd to live with my son and his wife for about 5 months till she was able get on her feet,however, life as it is ...that wasn't able to happen and so I ended up staying for the week after me and hubs came to visit last weekend. We were able to find her her own nice apartment and get daycare figured out for our grandson.

We will continue to come over, matter of fact we will be coming over a couple of times in the next few weeks. Lots of travel but we have to help her move the big stuff in her new place and get our son's stuff situated too. It's going to be a hard couple of months. Please continue to keep our family in your prayers.

It's a rough road because the Judge who allowed my dd to move her is the same judge who imposed all these requirements for her to move ie that we have to bring him back 2 times a month, but the minute order reads 3 visits however doesn't state that 1 of those 3 were if he wanted to spend his money to come here to visit or pay to have my grandson brought back. So of course he's angry. Never a dull moment.

I'm praying that in the next few months will fly fast and the feelings that were hurt through all this will be mended. The Lord can change hearts and heal hearts as well.

On another note I have enjoyed trick or treating w/my grandkids which is a first for me with a few of them, and also that I am able to have dinner with my daughters and bingo tomorrow with a few of them. Life is short and these little things are true blessings to my heart.

Regarding my business, if you haven't checked it out, I have been listing loads of low end items for sale on my etsy. I will be listing more when I return home early this next week. I was not able to upload anything for TDIPT Mercantile this month, however, I will be uploading some Christmas items for PFATT Marketplaceon the 10th.

Since staying this week with my daughter and son, my dd has gotten me hooked on bedtime tea with honey and lemon balm. What a wonderful drink late in the evening. I'm looking forward to coming over and staying with her in her apartment with my grandson and visiting my other children, including my son and my grandchildren. Thanks for all your prayers.

FALL NEWS

2011-10-19T18:58:00.001-07:00

Can't believe October's almost over. Halloween is on the horizon. Seems the months have flown by for me.

We moved our daughter and grandson to Arizona and they are settling in. Before we know it, we'll be following along.

Had a successful show at

Glitterfest in Santa Ana this past Saturday. Great group of designers offering lots of great items for sale. If you ever get a chance, be sure to check it out but take lots of money as there is a real temptation to spend.

Have you heard about the great credit card user friendly "Square Up"? If not, and you sell at shows or whatever, it's a great way to take a credit card. Lower fees than Paypal and no monthly fee either. Check it out HERE.

I spent today adding some new designs to my website and Etsy. Some I've had for awhile and just needed to get them listed and others were left over from the show.

I also listed some great pilgrims "The Duncans" on ebay HERE

I had to put a reserve on it because of all the work involved and the way ebay is so fickle these last few years. If you'd like to know what the reserve is, feel free to email me.

I will be listing more items on both tomorrow and until they are all listed so check back for new items.

I have a facebook page for my business if you're interested, check it out HERE

Like my page too

I have decided to start delving into other mediums besides fabric. I will be sharing this art with you too. Thanks for taking the time to stop and read my blog. Jump in the leaves for me if you live back east. I miss that as we live in the desert with no trees really.

Till next time, have fun with whatever you do.

Fall

2011-09-29T18:23:00.000-07:00

Is it true? September is almost gone. One more day and it's all over for 2011, never to happen again. Gosh where does the time go. Christmas is closer than we think. Matter of fact September to me means that it will take no time for Christmas to come.

I am getting a really late start on designing for Halloween and Christmas. If you've been keeping up on my blog, then you know about all the "stuff" I have been going through for the last year. That really put me behind.

I am only doing one show this year which is Glitterfest in Santa Ana, California. It is a one day affair on October 15, 2011. I will be madly working on items for this show next week before the show. It's down to the wire, I know but that seems to be the way my life has been lately.

I have some new designs for October on TDIPT Mercantile. Meet Smitty and his sidekick, Rodchester.

I will probably have a few other offerings but not sure what.

I haven't had the time to post about my offerings on PFATT Marketplace for September. I have two fantastic witchs with great attitudes and a scarecrow too.

The first is Ursula Wickenstein, isn't she great?

The next is Corvis Scareum.Oh and we can't forget "Butch"

His name is Butch and he gives the best hayrides!

Check em out HERE .

Check them all out. Watch for some new items to be listed after the 15th. Maybe even a giveaway so make sure you go to my website and sign up for my mailing list to be qualified to enter. You might win.

Please note that I will not be available from Sept 30-October 3-4. So if you place an order I will get back to you but won't be shipping until after that date. Thanks!

AND THE WINNER IS

2011-09-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Most of you didn't know there was a contest going on. Why is that? Because you aren't on my mailing list for my website
HERE

Didn't have near as many entries as I thought I might have, but that just made it better odds.

Annnnddd the winning name is

Congratulations Corina, I will be emailing you this morning that you won this adorable Annie!

Now that my life has somewhat settled down after the trial, I am madly working on Halloween and Fall designs. I have 2 great witches of which at least 1 will go for sale on PFATT which is released at 10:00 am on the 10th of the month which will be Saturday so I better hustle. I'm even going to be offering my first Gothic style doll soon too.

I'm also preparing for my show HERE.

If you are in the area, be sure to stop by and say hello. I love to meet people who love handmade items.

I have been so busy that I forgot to share my offering for TDIPT this month. Her name is Priscilla.

For details on her visit my BLOG

Also I have another new pattern in the newest (holiday) issue of Create and Decorate magazine. It's called "Snowflake N Chill".

Aren't they adorable? Read more about them
HERE . They make great cupboard hangers or large ornaments or you could resize them smaller if you'd like, with my blessing.

Well that's about it in my corner of the world. Hope you enjoyed your time. Thanks for stopping by.

IT'S FINALLY OVER

2011-09-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of our Court trial for our daughter and grandson to be able to move to Arizona with us when we retire. We won!

We are very happy with the Court's approval, however, I can't say that I feel the same about some of the proceedings.

Why is it that a person can be ordered to pay child support, provide proof of insurance, proof of residence and never abide by the orders be given everything on a silverplatter as if he was doing everything he was ordered? Yet a mother, who is just trying to make a better life for her child, is admonished if she even breaks one of the orders that father will get permanent custody of a child that has been in her physical custody since birth (child aged 5) Where is the damn justice in that?????? It's like, okay I ordered this but it's okay if you don't do what I ordered..no problem, we'll still make mother (who btw isn't getting support) and who is unemployed and living with parents pay for all visitations to and from Arizona to California, oh and not only that, make sure if you're visiting California..you need to give him an overnight visit!!! Where the he-- is the justice in that?

Now, mind you, we have all intention on keeping father involved in grandson's life, however, why is it that the grandparents are expected to fund the cost of getting child here/there but father not?? What kinda crap is that??

And limit mother to a specific airport even if one nearby is..flights are cheaper? Who cares..mother's paying, not father, and we wouldn't even think of making this a bit of a hardship on father!!!! CRAP! and then to be told (threatened) in taking her son away is uncalledfor. But that's okay, because this ruling commissioner hasn't heard the last of us. He has expressed his opinion regarding my husband's feelings toward the father without really knowing how my husband feels at all!!! Shame on him.

Why does it seem that the people who are following the law, are the ones who are never appreciated when the deadbeats and the nonfollowers get away with m der?
I worry about our Courts! They are terribly screwed up!!!

Sorry to go get on my soap box, but it's just not right!!! Perhaps if she didn't follow the Court order, then maybe some chastising might be expected but to hold this over her head...what kinda crap is that?

This has been a very hard, long, nervewrecking, costly trial. Like I said ..we won, but it just doesn't seem so sweet as it would if the commissioner wasn't so judgmental of our daughter for no means. All I know is we will be documenting, photographing, recording everything that happens, times etc because from the way the judge gave him every excuse he definitely isn't on my daughter's side and I'm sure we haven't had our last day in Court.

Our poor daughter has been through the wringer..a few weeks ago her and I went grocery shopping and came out and discovered a red car parked next to us had MAJORLY banged their passenger door into my daughter's car. My daughter had just had bodywork done on her car with a new paint job about a year ago. Red paint was on her white car and vice versa on their door. Nonetheless the jerk wasn't even smart enough to move his car! of course he didn't leave a note with his insurance info either. So we walked inside and had security help us..they photographed it and paged the party who never responded. So the police were called, came and then out comes the wild, lowlife guy prancing around like he was strung out on dope; who started to yell at the cop; calling the black card and how the cop was taking these white ladies word for everything,on our side etc and he wasn't admitting to hitting the car; or paying for it and we weren't getting any info from him. You can imagine the look on his face when my husband shows up and is black as well!! HA priceless!

Let me tell you what!! If I were a cop, his ass would have been put in my cruiser immediately, but this cop had the patience of Job and finally after he kept arguing with the cop he told him he either gives us his info or he'll take a trip to the station and be charged with hit and run; which he already committed! okayyy..sounds good..he finally gives him the info; however, the police took our address which we had to provide (that law needs to be changed!!!) and we went on our way. Why was it that I really expected something to happen in response to that??? Was it cuz he's a lowlife LA freekin jerk? hmm I wonder...BUT our daughter leaves to take our grandson to school on his first day and she says something smells of fire inside her car...we had a forest fire nearby the day before but that's not it!! Here her whole dash is ripped out, destroyed, her window is not going up or down; and lastly there was a fire set on the passengers side! WOW..now does that sound like something someone would have done in retaliation??

Our only recourse is to file another police report on this and pay a $300 deductible on her insurance to have it fixed. What kinda crap is that??? Another injustice! However, they left a cigarette butt in the car...the police took it but they are so overloaded and underbudget that I'm sure they won't be pursuing whose DNA is on that. Maybe they should turn it over to the insurance company, ya think???

This all happened in the middle of the trial and it's the hottest days of summer it's been in the desert and she can't even open her windows and her a/c compressor went out!! Talk about Satan attacking?? Please keep us in prayer or well wishes or what have you. We don't deserve this Karma, believe me. I think this was a test to see how my body responds to stress!!!

August in Bloom

2011-08-08T17:38:00.000-07:00

August is in full bloom here in Southern California. Still hot days and we finally got our pool going. Our grandson is having a blast, I swear he's a water rat hehe not afraid of getting his head wet, that's for sure. He started swimming lessons today, not that he needed them but I believe it can never hurt to have too many lessons. We always make sure he wears a lifejacket when he swims..too many sorry accidents happen in pools.

I'm glad to have it for some relief of my back pain I've been having. There's nothing like cold or I should say cool water to soothe the aches. I prefer cold over heat anyday.

Wanted to do a shout out about my nephew, Kory Rabenold, who has been racing ever since he was a baby.

He's trying so hard to get picked up by NASCAR but lives in such a small town in PA (Slatington) where it's been difficult. Check out his racing page HERE . He just completed an ARCA race this past Sunday in the Poconos. He finished 15th place which is really good. We are SO proud of him. The race was televised on the Speed channel so you might still be able to see it. Way to go Kory!! Aunt Sharon's in your corner!

Moving right along, I've gotten a way-too-slow start on fall creations but hope to start offering some new ones soon.

The newest issue of Create n Decorate should be hitting the shelves soon with my newest pattern for fall in my ad, Pumpkin Pete.

He's 31 1/2" tall and full of primfall greatness! Check him out HERE .

In this tough economy, unfortunately, copycats have hit a few good designer friends of mine lately. One even went so far as to post that she can't afford the $200 that the designers dolls are going for on Ebay, that she decided to make her own and sell it on Ebay!!!!!!!!!! Talk about blatant!!! Now, does that shout of stupid or what?? I have had my copycats in my days and believe me, it's maddening! They wait and watch to see what hard work you've come up with for a design and then just simply steal and take what they want and then claim it as an original? Original what??? Copy?? Of course the copy is never near as good as the original work of the hardworking, clever, well designed, quality artist that created it! Even if they don't make the big dollars that the true original goes for, nonetheless, they are getting paid and feeding that copycat nature to just repeat it again.

To all copycats out there..there are enough patterns on the market to choose from, that allow you to make their designs, stick with those, especially when you don't know what the he.. you're doing!!!

Some people's children!

Sorry it seems the last few posts have been somewhat negative, but that's life and being a participant on the designer end of it is no fun!! Just hard work. We don't just sit around and magically the ideas come to mind!

C'mon this isn't elementary school anymore folks! Grow up!!!

Here's to some R&R..lord knows I need some.

MOVING INTO AUGUST

2011-07-31T13:08:00.000-07:00

Can you really believe that I am blogging 3 times in one month?? Wow, I'm doing good.

How's your summer going? Mine's been okay. A few minor setbacks but still hot and going strong.

I did go to the Long Beach Quilt Show but was somewhat disappointed in it. Not near as many vendors, no will-call available on the same floor..they had one on the 2nd floor ..but with someone who has trouble carrying big packages and trepping a story to drop them off that doesn't help me! C'mon you promoters for this show!!! Think!!!!

At Road to California shows they have boy scouts that do will call and it's available right in the front on that floor.

Worse yet, I asked security where's a water fountain..he said on the 2nd floor! Liar!!! There was one in the food court where I purchased my bottle of water to take my pills.

On another note, my daughter was along and she loved the show. So I spent most of my money on her. She needs a diversion from all the Court stuff. BTW as it was not handled last Court date our next one is in a few weeks. I'm very hopeful that this will all be rectified then and she can get on with her life.

One booth that I adored wasLazy Daisy Cottage . Dana has some awesome stuff and my dd and I adored her minki stripped quilts. Check them out...she screams of talent!!!

Another fantastic designer I found, who had the only primitive dolls that I saw is Gunny Sack Mercantile

I adore her angelic skeleton pattern and all her stuff..check out the icicles!! Adorable! I was able to purchase these 2 patterns (which I rarely purchase any patterns) and I fully intend to make at least one to sell and promote her designs. She really has a great primitive eye. So stop by her site and give a shout out to Donna Stevens (not related to me)and tell her Sharon Stevens/Mustardseed sentcha! She's a sweetheart!

Her friend has some great quilting patterns as well. I'm not sure if she has her stuff on the site but I'm sure Donna could tell you.

How many of you believe in Karma? You know>>what goes around, eventually will come around?? Well I am a firm believer in this. I've seen it happen way too many times to not believe it. Anyways I'm also a believer in giving back and helping newer, less exposed artists giving them a boost if I can through my business. Promote these new designers..don't look at it as competition..competition is good!! So with this post I am asking that you check out these sites I gave you. You never know what you'll find.

Okay...my last complaint of this post is regarding our famous "Martha Stewart". A well known designer posted something on Facebook about MS promoting India artists work and asking that we Americans purchase their art as they need money. Well what out American artists??? Hey I have my hand waving in the air when the question is posed who is having tough time in this economy!!! Martha Stewart> You are welcome to come to my house anytime and promote my business!! We don't need a celebrity from America, no less, going to a foreign country to sell imports!!! We have enough imports here that we are competing with!!!Give me a break!!!

I want you, Martha Stewart, to know that I personally will be BOYCOTTING any purchase of your designs, or products you endorse etc. Maybe I don't purchase enough MS stuff..but if we all do this, maybe she'll get the message. Better yet, write her! I plan to! But then like my husband says, it's all about money and who is paying her to do this. Yea..the good ole buckeroo!

Okay I'll get off my soapbox. Make sure you check out TDIPT Mercantile after 9:00 pm EST for the August issue of our site. I'm sure there will be some awesome designs for fall too!!

And I'll leave you with a page from the first issue of PRIMS magazine where they featured my dolls.

See ya later

Moving Right Along

2011-07-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

July is winding down and we're heading into August. Still some hot weather to be had here in Southern California.

I was on a great roll of destashing my primitive collections on ebay and with the fees, is it really worth it? By the time I sell something for 99 cents, pay ebay, paypal and then the additional shipping that I didn't quote right..somehow I'm paying to give this stuff away. So I decided to put some items on my picturetrail with prices and a or best offer..so check em out HERE Help me get this stuff GONE! please!! I have loads more. Great deals too!!

On another note I have to share my recent experience in switching medications. I have been on a med for 8 years now, and my doctor switched me to Savella to help with my fibromyalgia. At first it was okay, I seemed a bit irritable, however, as the days went on (1 week of symptoms) I started feeling terrible..nauseous, vomiting, major head spins and excessive sweating to the point of my clothing drenching as soon as I got out of the shower.

Called my doctor and she just said to continue taking it and make sure I took it with food..HA!!!

Later that evening as I took my afternoon dose I was instantly convinced that I'm allergic to this med!!!! I stopped taking it and am having a really rough time of it. It's been about a week with the symptoms and I'm hoping it'll stop soon. I'll make sure that's one drug I won't ever take again. I'm much rather be in pain that have those effects!!! So beware if you're thinking of taking it..read the side effects carefully! Not just the regular side effects but the severe ones! Holy Cow! The cure for the sickness is worse than the sickness itself!! Just wanted to mention that.

Even in my younger drinking days I never experienced a hangover as bad as that!! and I remember drinking, smoking and being out till the bars closed and up for work at 6:00 am with the hangover!!

So with feeling like this, doubt very much that I'll be heading to the Long Beach Quilt Show which is only 1 time a year..darn it and I missed it last year!

Well take some time to check out my destash stuff..I gotta run..slip a prayer in for me if you can so this stuff will stop and I'll be on the road to myself. Thanks much!

OMG>>SERIOUSLY!!!

2011-07-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

Has it been really 3 months since my last post? Shame on me..but I have excuses galore for the lack of time in posting. If you follow my blog you know the custody battle we are going through to allow our daughter and grandson to move to Arizona. Hopefully this is going to all be wrapped up by next week.

Did I mention we have an AWESOME attorney? Kerry Justice is her name and she is so passionate regarding her work it's amazing and refreshing to see an attorney that you actually don't mind paying! She's well worth her price and more.

As if that's not enough to keep me occupied, we took a mini vakay to San Diego Sea World. Our grandson loved it. We adults weren't that impressed by the whole thing, mainly because they changed alot of the shows. They added too much of that cirque sole lei type stuff...too many acrobats and not enough interaction with the animals. I thought they used to ride the whale, Shamu, maybe I'm mistaken, but that one handler that was killed might have influenced that.

At least the price tag wasn't so bad $61.00 is alot better than $83 for Disney!! Crazy! But at least Jayden had a great time.

Also, we were finally able to take everything out of my work room and reorganize everything!! Well actually alot of it is still in my front room, which I am going through and purging. I cannot believe everything came from my room!! Call me a hoarder, yes I admit it! Crazy! However, my loss is your gain as I am listing my destashing items on ebay at low prices! Lots of antique items too. I will be listing some everyday till I'm finished which will probably be months!! It feels so good to package them up and off they go. Check em out HERE. Like I said I will be listing everyday so bookmark to keep checking, never know what you'll see that you can't live without.

Also I'm listing some on my Etsy page too for you folks that don't like bidding HERE.

Summer is in full season here in Southern California. The electric bills are going sky high with having to use our air. Our pool needs a new motor so it's gone south but we should have that up and going in the next week or so.

Well that's about it today. I'll try and blog to let you know some of the items I am parting with. Currently, there's lots of supplies for primitive dolls, vintage cookie cutters, an old 1930's doll, a mini wood cabinet, a vintage sewing cabinet, old rolling pin, wood boxes, noses for animals, paper mache eggs, gourds, rusty bedsprings, small wood wreaths, plastic vintage doll bodies with some clothes..and more! On Etsy I have an adorable mini baby cradle for altered art or dolls; patterns never used; vintage tomato pincushions; splattered greenware bowl; very old sand pail; vintage bandaid containers; very old thread spool holder; and loads more! Be sure to check em out!! If you're looking for something, give me a holler, you never know if I might have it. Till later :-)

Spring Designs

2011-04-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

Have you visited my Etsy page lately? I've added some adorable springtime Rabbits. I am thoroughly enjoying creating these critters and bringing them to life.
My newest one, Bonnie Belle, is dressed in a blue outfit perfect for this season!

She has her pet Swan, "Darla", which is not permanently attached. Here's a closeup of Bonnie's darling face, how can you resist her?

She's guaranteed to steal your heart! and if for some reason she doesn't, then check out her friend, Cassandra Carrith.

Isn't she a cutie too?

Here's a darlin chick..."Cluck" is her name and she's on my PFATT page I just adore her

Here's a closeup of her darlin face ...

Well that's enough eye candy for now. Be sure to check out all my Etsy designs HERE.

I've been busy with some deadlines and trying to get some new Americana dolls made too. My studio is a mess. I'm the worse organizer in the world. I'm going to have to break it down into sections as it's overwhelming at this point. I need to majorly downsize too.

You might recall awhile back I asked for prayer for my daughter's court actions regarding our grandson. Well many months have passed and we are hopefully coming to a close in regard as to weather she will be allowed to move with us to Arizona.

Once again I am asking that everyone pray that we have a favorable outcome this Friday when we go to court. Our evaluator has been less than pleasant to work with. These people that the court hires to evaluate the children and parents ..well our's anyway is such a joke!! The cost is astronomically high for the very little time that they even evaluate any of them!! I pray that this will all be overwith this weekend, once and for all and we, at last, will know our direction our life will be going forward. I hate being in limbo.

I'd like to share a blog with everyone that has become of interest to me. I found it while searching out online information regarding fibromyalgia. Selena at OH MY ACHES AND PAINS is participating in a Break Cancer project to raise awareness of the issues facing young adults with cancer. It is a program that was started by Lance Armstrong. Stop by her blog between 12 midnight to 11:59 pm PDT on Friday, April 22, and leave a small comment to support them.

Have you seen the new "Prim Nest" shopping site where there's a bunch of talented primitive artists selling their wares? Check it out HERE If you haven't seen it yet, take some time to check it out when you find some time.

Do you think facebook has taken alot of people away from blogging? Or blogsurfing? I don't get to read as many blogs as I'd like as there never seems to be enough time at the end of the evening.

Hope Spring is in your neck of the woods, and have fun tiptoeing through the tulips :-)

Busier than a Bee

2011-04-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Oh gosh, time has gotten ahold of me again! I can't believe it's been this long since I've last blogged.

Alot has happened since then..the best being that my father doesn't need the oxygen anymore. He's pretty much back to his old self..Thank You Lord. My stepmom was wanting to take a trip to Vegas to get away but the doctor said now isn't a good time.

We made a trip to Phoenix to visit our son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter. It was a great short trip. My daughter, D-I-L and myself went shopping and had a good time. We always love to visit Hobby Lobby mainly because we don't have them in California. Also Savers thrift stores too. They are a bit pricier than Goodwills but have top quality clothing.

We won't wait that long to take another visit there.

I have been listing designs on ebay here lately and currently have two rabbits on, one is Americana and the other is Welcome Spring. Take a look here .

Also I have 3 new designs on both TDIPT and PFATT. There

are some irrestible designs. You've got to check out "Mousie" who's picture is below:

and an adorable Sheep

And I have to share "Cluck" too as she's one of my all time favorites too

Well it's getting late and I'm running late for my bath, so I'm going to go for tonight but I promise to post more tomorrow. Thanks for stopping by to catch up.

Prayer Helps

2011-02-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

I'd like to start out thanking all you folks who have kindly been praying for my dad.

It's only been a little over a week since he had surgery, and not being used to having any medical problems is really frustrating him. He's been stubborn from what my stepmom says. And worse yet, he won't do anything but sit and think. No watching TV like he used to (TV game show addict) so I suggested reading. Something to keep his mind occupied.

My stepmom goes out for small errands and wanted someone to sit with him while she was gone..whoa did he have a fit! "I don't need anyone to babysit me!" hehe pray for my stepmom..she really is a gem!! Wish I was back there (2,000 miles+) to see him.

They did find out when they went to see the Lung doctor this week. That they removed some of his right upper lung where the spot was. I suppose it wasn't cancerous because they cancelled his appointment with the cancer doctor. Either they cut it out or he never had cancer. So far, so good. I just hope these doctors know what they're talking about, because remember, doctors PRACTICE medicine.

That brightened my day when I heard that news. So he's on the backstretch heading to the finish. He just needs to relax and take one day at a time.

Being ill like that really humbles you. I know firsthand when I had my sever back surgery. Wow..treating our bodies good is so important.

On another note, I just updated my website with some new designs for spring. Take a look.

I also added some new designs to my Etsy shop too. Check them out too.

And Pfatt
Marketplace is up for February. There's lots of great designs on there too.

Here's a couple of photos of some of my designs you'll find:

I'll close with this. Spring is in the air, I can feel it.
Blessings till next time~

Life Moves Ahead

2011-02-01T19:43:00.000-08:00

Regardless if you want it too or not, life moves ahead. Somedays I wish I could rewind a few days back or even weeks. Seems like when you have your schedule all set then something happens and the next thing you know you're into the next week. Anyone else feel like that? Good, so it's not just me.

This past month has really been a challenging one for me. Not just my business, but also with my father being ill. The waiting and not knowing is the worse. We were hoping to once and for all know what we were dealing with, but again, we don't know for sure if he has cancer.
Doctors said as far as they can see he doesn't have cancer, but just damage as a result of the chemicals he worked with. BUT..there's always that but in there...we are still waiting on news of the lymph nodes. Then, hopefully, we'll find out for sure. Meanwhile my dad is resting in the hospital where he will remain until at least Thursday. Please continue to pray for him. He's a trooper, an Army veteran, a joker, a gambler, a believer and he thanks you too.

As if that wasn't enough to send me into next week, then it has to be going to Court with my youngest daughter. That's where I'll be tomorrow morning. Lord willing, my ex son-in-law will get chastized for not paying his child support and for his constant harassment of my very stress-ridled daughter. He has really taken the cake with some of his ways of harassing her. It amazes me. Please pray that the Judge will be able to see exactly what kind of man he is and not be fooled. There has to be justice for young mothers like my daughter.

And lastly my enemy,fibromyalgia, once again has sucked of my days from me. I hate fibromyalgia!!! I can't even have 2 days of delight, shopping in the sunshine with my lovely daughter; or taking a trip to the fabric store on 2 occasions and then there's a day yardsaling to have landed me a day where I'm not myself!! I refuse to give in and allow it to take my joy away. I will go out to lunch with my husband even if I am in pain. I need to quit giving into it! It will not control my life!

Thanks for all the prayers and for listening to me whining.

I wasn't able to list my TDIPT offerings on the site this month in time for upload. However, I'm still working to finish them and they will be on my website under "Spring" or the side bar HERE. They will all be rabbits in time for Spring and Easter! Please don't miss them.

I could still use your prayers for my daughter for tomorrow. Thanks so much!

Need Some Prayer Here

2011-01-29T20:17:00.000-08:00

I know we could all use a little prayer but tonight I'm asking for specific prayer for my dad, Ken Rabenold, who is going in the hospital on Monday morning to have a biopsy taken via endoscopy of his lungs.

He had a PET Scan several weeks ago which didn't tell the doctors for sure if he has cancer, so they say, even tho it lite up~which was my understanding that if it does, it means it's cancer. Plus there are some black spots on inside his chest or in his lungs that they don't know what it is. So they are doing the biopsy to find out what it is.

If they discover it's cancer or something they can remove, they will be staffed to remove it and he will be in the hospital for awhile.

I worry since his lungs are in very bad shape that he might contact pneumonia which would be very bad for him. This is all so hard for him too because at 82, last month he thought he was fine, except a little dizzy when he stood up. Then to go into the ER for that and be admitted and hospitalized for over a week with all kinds of tubes in you and medications and then being sent home with 8 medications and an oxygen system and breathing treatments etc. is quite scarey!!! His life as it was will probably never be again. He wasn't taking any prescribed medications before this and the doctors say that he is in excellent shape except for his bad lungs.

This place of employment is still open..sad, I wonder how many people that have worked in places like this, have problems with their bodies because no one knew that the chemicals they were dealing with was poisonous to them.

So if you belong to a Church group, or prayer group or just pray period, please remember my father this Sunday or when you pray. I appreciate it.

On another note, have you seen my newest designs on Etsy? If not here's a look at some of my newest offerings

These are great for hanging on your Easter/Spring trees or as package tie ons for a gift. They are really popular sellers. Another great addition is this adorable rabbit

Isn't she adorable? Told you she was. You can reach them by clicking HERE

Then I have several Valentine ladies on ebay which go off tomorrow. There are two heart shaped head one and a great primitive angel cherub angel too. Here's a sampling:

To reach my Ebay items click HERE

All are at starting bids which are a great deal for these designs. Be sure to check them out while there's still time.

I'm working on lots of new Spring designs. If there's something you'd like to see me design, just let me know and we'll see what I can do.

Today my daughter and I were in Michael's looking for some feathers for the new earrings and hair clips she's going to make for Etsy, anyways, there was a Somerset Life magazine there and I was browsing to see if there was anything I liked in it. Lo and behold on page 11 is a photo of my frog and dolls!! Do you know how that makes you feel?? Words can't describe when you aren't aware that you are published. Reason why I didn't know was because Jenny Doh and a photographer from the magazine attended the last Glitterfest show that I sold at in October in Santa Ana, California. I acknowledged them and never thought anything of it. Well in this issue they did a cool article on Glitterfest and featured my frog and dolls as part of the show. How cool!!!! Great photo too ladies!!! yahoo! Thanks girls!!!

This same frog will be featured in the Spring PRIMS magazine too. I am one lucky girl!!!! So today was a good day! Thanks for sharing it with me.

New Items on Ebay

2011-01-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

While browsing blogs, I read several by prior primitive doll designers, who have decided that dolls weren't selling as well as they used to, and changed their direction for their business. Most moved on to cross stitched items, needle punch and other lines.

Although I love vintage cross stitched samplers and needle punch, I couldn't see myself doing anything but this. Regardless how well my dolls are selling, and what they are selling for, I'm loyal to my doll designing. It's in my blood. How could I turn my head on them. The partial bodies in my sewing room would be pleading "Why aren't you putting me together, creating me, dressing me. Aging me?" Some say you have to go with what's selling and selling for good money. Nope not me!

Wanted to share with you some of my newest Ebay listings. I have an adorable family of old fashioned black sock dolls made like the really vintage dolls made decades ago.

Aren't they adorable? They have a very low starting bid at $24.99.

Then I also have a cute snowgal skater listed.

She's a cutie and will surely brighten up your cold, wintery days till Spring! She also has a low starting bid at $24.99.

One of my newer designs is my 9" Raggedy Ann dolls that I have listed on Etsy. Here's one that's listed

They sell for $39.99 plus shipping. There are a few left.

I also have been selling these mixed media altered art angels.

They are small at about 3" and come with hangers. People have purchased these for all sorts of things. I'll be working on more of these too.

If you would like to view my Etsy, CLICK HERE

Likewise if you'd like to view my Ebay items CLICK HERE.

It's about time for my relaxing bath so with that I'll sign off. Thanks for all the prayers and emails from all you wonderful people regarding my father. You just don't know how much it means to me!!

SNOW IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

2011-01-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true! Large flakes of snow are falling but not sticking, darn! I know, I know all you folks who got hammered are ready to ship me a truck load or more.

Growing up in East PA and having snow every year brings back good memories of my childhood. Course I wasn't the one who needed to clean up after it either.

How many are glad 2010 is over? I know I am. On Wednesday, December 29th, my father was admitted in the hospital. His symptoms were dizziness when rising, shortness of breath (he has had problems in the past). Like alot of men, he didn't think he needed to go and finally my stepmom convinced him it was time.

Then there was "the phone call I had been dreading". My father has a spot on his right lung in the upper part under the shoulderblade area. They claim it measures 2 1/2 cm by 1 1/4 cm big..Is that small? medium or large?

He had a team of doctors ordering tests. It's hard because apparently where he worked, he inhaled toxic chemicals that are destroying his lungs. So they can't do the normal biopsys, some sort of needle tests that help find treatment for him.

I know we all are going to die one day, and I and my father do believe in the Lord almighty and are sealed with the blood and all that, but it's still scarey. He's no spring chicken at 81 (to be 82 on 1/13/11)so I'm sure that's another mark against him. However, it really makes you stop and think how fast life passes by.

My dad has always been a joker, even now he lives up to the name that's tatooed on his arm (JOKER). He used to let us kids (6) guess the letters and #'s on a dollar bill and if we got some of them right we got the dollar. That was just one thing he did.

The one thing that stands out in my mind is him saying that when I'm 15 I'll be (blank) years younger than him. Then he proceeded to say when I'm 30, he'll only be (blank) years older than me...continuing on. He's good at math can calculating things like that.

Just like my grandmother, Mildred, used to do, he is always in a good mood and laughing all the time. Now he's very depressed and cries alot.

I would appreciate any prayers for him- Ken Rabenold; and his wife, Anne Rabenold. She is a saint. This is her third marriage that her husband has had cancer. She is a breast cancer survivor too. Keep them in prayer if you will. Prayer does change things.

I'll keep everyone up to date here on my blog. He goes for a PET scan sometime this week which will tell exactly where the cancer is, if in fact, it is cancer.

Well, the snow is starting to fall pretty heavy and sticking. Hubby said it's supposed to snow all night. Maybe I'll be able to make a snow angel after all.

Before I close I'd like to invite you to check out my newest designs on TDIPT Mercantile . There are some great designs this month. I have several Valentine's Day offerings and an adorable Laundry Maid - Wanda. Thanks for stopping by.

Heading to a New Year

2010-12-27T12:55:00.000-08:00

As this year comes to an end, it's time for me to sit down and map out the direction I want my business to take. I also take this time to access my advertising funds.

My business has several exciting things happening in 2011. Looking forward to a new year.

I'd like to try my designing in other forms of art. Quilting is one and painting is another. We'll see. What does the new year offer you? Of all things, health is my wish for all.

Not quite sure how our country or world is going to go. I'm hoping the economy makes somewhat of a comeback. California will be one of the last to recover, if we ever do. I'm sure our taxes will go up.

One decision I made midmonth December, was to start selling on Ebay again. One reason is I want to find some new customers, fresh faces. Also that will keep me designing on a full time basis too. Let's hope it's successful.

I love selling on Etsy too but it's not an auction type site. I think there's alot of people that like the idea of bidding. I recall as a young child my parents going to auctions and coming home with big boxes of stuff. I guess you can bid on a box. Us kids loved it because we'd find ice skates and all sorts of toys inside. And with there being 6 kids in our family, we didn't get much toys except on Christmas.

On another note, the east coast is getting all kinds of snow!! I miss the big snowstorms we had living in PA. Lucky them!!

Us Californians got a huge rainstorm that lasted for days, which is unheard of out here. There was flooding everywhere!! Crazy cuz the city is not equipped with the proper drainage and, of course, we don't have the $$ to fix it. We are one broke state for sure!!

Whatcha got planned for New Year's Eve? We will probably stay home--as a matter of fact, I might even be asleep when the ball falls, after I make all my New Year's resolutions, of course. But that's okay..we (dh and I) love our simple life. There will be all kinds of intoxicated folks driving for sure. I hope if you're driving be very careful.

Well I have a few patterns that I'm going to design. Keep an eye out on my blog for their new release soon. Take Care

Want to win a Snowman?

2010-12-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Vicki from Homespunhugs and Calico Kisses is having a Giveaway! I hope I win but I'll share the offer with you all. Head on over HERE and leave a comment on her blog. Buuut I have to say that I hope I win!! hehe

Have you checked out my ebay page lately? If not I have alot of great designs listed at low bids! Check it out HERE

Also I listed more items on my Etsy HERE

Gotta run chickadees! Talk some more tomorrow!

18 days & Counting!

2010-12-07T19:48:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow!! It's coming faster than I thought!! Just think, pretty soon it'll all be overwith and business or shopping will be back to normal. I can't wait!

It seems like it wasn't that long ago that me and my brother, Buz, were sitting by my bedroom window with our pillows propped up, insisting on staying awake till we see Santa go flying across the sky and delivering presents. Of course, to our dismay, it took longer than we could possibly stay awake and we never did see him. I'm sure there's lots of disappointed kids that never get to see Santa coming down the chimney...but then they forget all about it when they see all those presents Santa left them.

I came from a family of 6 kids and my dad as a carsalesman and didn't make alot of money. But every year we thought we were the luckiest kids alive! Wonder how our parents did it??

I used to envy my friends because they used to get wrapped gifts. Santa never wrapped ours and I wondered why. I always thought I was missing something. Until I grew up and realized just how expensive it would have been to purchase gift wrap too. Of course, I'd rather have them spend the $$ on gifts. Anyhow, since our gifts were never wrapped, they were never under the tree till Christmas morning. When all 5 of us went down the stairs OMG it looked like a toy store, with race car sets (4 of em) set up, a dolly in a highchair or stroller, several bikes, scooters, skates, sleds and lots of other stuff.

I was the only girl at that time (oldest) my sister didn't come along till I was 12, so I always knew anything girlie was mine!! That was a Christmas to behold!!That was just one Christmas I'm sharing with you.

Well before I close, let me tell you about a special character I just listed on ebay. He's one of my all time favorite characters of The Christmas Carol..Ebenezer Scrooge! Even if I must say, I have outdid myself with his design! Check him out and tell me whatcha think..here's a preview

I'm in love!!! You can see all of him by checking out his listing HERE

I've started him at the lowest bid possible as I have alot of hours invested in designing him. While you're looking, check out my other Ebay listings with low bids that would make great holiday gifts. I'm also listing new items on Etsy daily as well. To view them HERE

Let me know what you think about my newest listings! Can't wait to hear from you!

Happy December

2010-12-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Are you like me, never enough time in a day, week, year?

I wanted to make some special gifts for my kids and kept procrastinating and now I will be madly shopping with all the others to find the right gift.

Our minivakay was wonderful!!!We all need those in our lives. We have a timeshare in Vegas and it's a great sneakaway for us. Had a blast there..even did some Christmas shopping for myself and hubs did some for him and I visited my favorite quilt shop, The Christmas Goose, HERE that has all the up to date patterns and fabric. Sunshine, the owner, and her staff are delightful gals who are always ready to assist you.

I was so excited to find another quilt pattern from BEEINMYBONNET Lori Holt, who happens to have a blog too. There's links on her blog that will direct you to where you can purchase the patterns. Just browse around to see all the wonderful quilts she makes. I purchased a pattern "Aprons" from a quilt shop near Salt Lake City when I was at quiltfest one year. So I recognized her work instantly. Then I found her blog. OMG I was in heaven. You have to check it out!! How does she get all this work done? I mean, her house is emmaculate! And her designs are out of this world..I'm hooked!! forever I fear!! Whoaaa is me!

Last night our December issue of TDIPT Mercantile was published. Have you seen it? Lots of great designs to be had there. I planned to have something totally different than what I chose to list because I didn't get it finished in time. Plus alot of people are wanting smaller items than bigger so I thought I'd list some. Buuutttt I couldn't resist adding Cinder Mieces Claus.

He's so jovial with his bag full of cheese for all the lucky mieces. Check all of my offerings here

When you're purchasing your Christmas gifts give us artists a chance to make your season bright. There's alot of smaller gifts to be had on Etsy and lots of co-op sites. Please remember that although we enjoy our jobs, alot of us are using the proceeds to provide the needs of our families.

As much as we don't like it, we are all in this "economy" together. I truly believe in "pay it forward". Please give what you can this holiday season. Remember your hairstylist, who's appointments have ceased; mailperson who picks up your packages even tho you forgot to schedule a pickup; trashman who kindly brings your trash out when you forget (we have the best trashman ever!!) the newspaper carrier who braves the cold of night to deliver; the waitress who brings your food, don't forget to tip!! They are supporting their families as well. You will be blessed for giving, no matter the amount, every little bit helps.

GOBBLE EM UP WEEKEND SALE

2010-11-26T07:56:00.000-08:00

Did you have a good Thanksgiving? I did. This was my youngest daughter's (23 yo) first year at making the meal by herself. What I mean is her and my grandson live with us and she wanted to make the meal to learn for herself. So, of course, I gladly obliged. Matter of fact, I was estatic!! For over 36 years I have prepared turkey dinners give or take a few when we went out, and I don't know about you but meals always taste better when someone else makes it so of course I was happy. My choice was to go out since hubs and I are off for a wee mini weekend getaway today.

So instead of preparing all the fixings, I was able to relax and even take an afternoon nap. The only thing she needed help with was in preparing the candied yams. I WAS IMPRESSED!!! She even had time to fix gingerbread cutouts and fancy granola baked apples to boot!! Ahhhh I so wish for a younger body...this made me feel really old as I have lost alot of my umgf, if that's a word. So I just might be handing my golden spoon to her from here out. Of course, I will help where needed or prepare some desserts.

This was also my daughter in-law's first year cooking a Thanksgiving meal for her, my son and little granddaughter. They moved to Arizona last year and she wanted it to be special, even though we have other children there where they were invited to attend their's, she wanted to have Madz (6 yo) experience the whole "girlie" thing.

My son said she even made munchies for earlier in the day, several in fact!! Wish I could have eatten with them. So I guess I can pass the golden spoon to her as well. Good job done to both daughters!!!

Can you believe the stores that are open on Thanksgiving?? Crazzzzzzee We live in a small town and don't have any Walmart Supercenters so our small store opened at 12:00am with doorbusters and my daughter had a few things that she wanted for my grandson at great deals. So daddy and her braved the crowds to get them. Hubby said it was nuts, they had a maze just to get in and weren't allowing too many at a time as it was full. Overall she was able to get what she wanted there and slept right through the 4:00 am Target trip. So sad people have to go through this to get a deal, however, I think most of the people waiting weren't seniors as we're not needing that stuff that bad to brave the crowds...at least I don't. Plus I can't stand in line so I'm out there too.

Anyways, I have to close and get ready to leave, but wanted to let everyone know that I am offering a 30% discount to anything on my website over $40.00 until Sunday at 11:00 pm (PST). First come, first served. Patterns are not included in this sale and shipping will be added. Just click HERE . Hope you have a great weekend! Thanks for stopping by! Happy first of the holiday season!

Good Grief, is summer over already?

2010-09-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been that long since I blogged. Well, then again, I can. My computer crashed AGAIN. That's like 6 times at least since I purchased it last year.

Can you feel it? I sure can! The crispness of fall is in the air. I love, love, love it!! My favorite season of all. Although it makes me yearn to live back in PA where I guess I took it for granted..the four seasons, that is.

Here in Southern California, there's really only 2 seasons..winter and summer. Well we do have a brief month of spring and fall it seems.

November is going to be a GREAT month for our TDIPT Mercantile followers!!! We are having an open house with loads of giveaways. The theme for this month is "Colonial Christmas". Each artist in our group will be offering at least one item in this theme. Since there are so many different kinds of art available, it will be interesting what everyone comes up with. I, myself, have some great designs to list. Be sure to join in the fun after Trick or Treat.

Be sure to sign up to win a drawing!!

Mid Summer News

2010-07-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy out in blogland. Are you hot enough yet? We certainly are in the high desert of Southern California. I haven't had a break on using our air for almost a week!! Hate to get that bill. YIKES

Have you seen the newest designs up for sale at TDIPT Mercantile? If not, you are really missing the boat. There are some great designs to be had. Wish I was wealthy then I could buy whatever I wanted. But then again, money isn't everything right?

This month on TDIPT I am offering "Judy's Stocking" which is 25" long and chock full of great old thymed toys including a wee little nutcracker that I had a hard time parting with. And he's an unusual color of pink. Oh well, can't keep em all.
I also had an "Old Thymed Santa" which has already sold, sorry. Take a look at them HERE

On PFATT Marketplace this month I am offering 2 of my original designs that were featured in "Create and Decorate" magazine. Look below

Click HERE to read all about them.

Take a browse through my ETSY page for new designs as well as listing new designs on Ebay, but with a reserve. Nowadays you have to have a reserve to protect your time and skills.

Today I feel like cooking and baking which is a bad thing with this hot weather. Darn it. But it is a good thing too because I haven't felt this good for years! and I mean years! All you followers of my blog have been with me on my journey with PAIN that bad word!!! But with my new spinal cord stimulator I am a new person!! I have so much more energy like it's given me years back on my life! When I was in alot of pain and I'd see women about my age shopping or just doing things they love or even reading blogs of where ladies did this and that, I soooo envied them as I was good for nothing after 2:00 pm everyday and don't even ask me what's for dinner or I'm liable to chew your head off. I wanted to just crawl into bed because I was totally exhausted. Now at 2:00 pm I am still roaring and come time to make dinner, I enjoy creating different meals we haven't had for a long time. It's sad how much energy pain absorbs.

Even my fibromyalgia is getting better. I truly believe that the pain everyday caused so much stress in my life that that's why I was having back to back flareups. Heck, I had a flareup yesterday and the only thing I can contribute it to is having a STUPID nightmare that really stressed me out. Can't remember much of it but some people were after my family and I was yelling to close the curtains so they couldn't see us ..stupid, stupid, stupid...but I'm sure that's what did it.

Saw my Guardian Angel Pain Managment Doctor Joe Park last week and I can't get any deep tissue massage for a LLLOOONNGG time. He's afraid that the wires would break and I need to allow time for scar tissue to develop and protect them. As many of you know, I love my weekly massages so he did say I can get it on my head, feet and shoulders so I'll have to live with that for now.

On a last note for today, Please remember to support artists of hand made designs. Everyone is having a hard time right now and alot of people who were laid off or lost their jobs are now trying to feed their families via this route. You will be blessed for it.

Oh and also I have to share that my oldest granddaughter (15) went on her first date to the movies with my daughter, her mom, driving them there and back. She (Myrissa) was so excited that her date paid for her movie! What is this world coming too? Ladies, we are ruining all the "courting" standards by being independent! I mean I believe that a woman should be able to stand on her own financially and otherwise but whatever happened to "Courting?" Let me know...

Mustardseed's Back on Ebay!

2010-06-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you know that I used to sell on Ebay in the early 2000's up till a few years ago when it started going south.

Us girls at TDIPT Mercantile HERE decided to do a "Best of Show" group launch and I decided, what the heck, I'd give it a try. So I created "Sam Celebrating the 4th of July". I didn't realize how I had forgotten how to list. My goodness, it took me a few hours just to get it listed. What's even worse, is that the templates I had purchased back then don't work because the folks that made them were hosting them and no longer doing that. UGGHH So I have to go revamp them all. Meanwhile I purchased a template from Deb at Deb's Lost Treasures Here and she was nice enough to get it to me ASAP. I'd highly recommend her to anyone looking for some graphics or templates. OUTSTANDING SERVICE!!

If you'd like to follow him, he has 2 days till he goes off, CLICK HERE

He had a reserve, which has been met and the bidders have been very gracious in their bidding.I just might have to list some more items.

On another note, check out my friend Jane's ebay listing "Nothing Plain by Jane"HERE Awesome listing huh?

It's summer and that means it's time to gear up for the fall season designs. My all time favorite things to create besides Americana.

I've also been working on catching up with my orders. That always feels good to have them completed. Watch for new listings and happenings at Mustard Seed Originals soon. Be sure to sign up to be notified when I have new designs by clicking HERE and I'll get you added. Meanwhile take a browse around my website HERE

Have fun in the sun!
Blessings to you

Getting Old, a New Do and Dogs & Cats, Oh My!!!

2010-06-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

Dontcha just hate getting old? Think back to your teen days. We couldn't wait till we were officially a 'teen' at 13, wonder why that was? It didn't really allow us to do anything great that we couldn't do before. Then we couldn't wait till we were 16 to drive a car. Then we wished more of our life away to get to 18-WOW-18, the magical number of freedom. Or was it? My kids couldn't wait to be 18 but actually the only thing it entitled them to was voting which I'm sad to say they rarely do, and able to sign a real contract, which they will regret in a few years. Gee you can even get married without your parents' signature too! Whoopee!

Then 21 was the our freedom to drink, but also to be charged with a crime as an adult.

My girls thought that something had to happen like fireworks going off and they are FREE. HA, boy were they wrong! It seems once you pass 18 it's all downhill after that, right? The years seem to fly by after that and then all of a sudden you wake up and realize you're 57, 3 short years from the big 6-0. OMG it seems so old just saying those numbers. I don't really feel that old, well my soul doesn't but my body might disagree.

Now, getting to my point...I had lasix surgery in 2003 and that was wonderful I could actually see in the distance without contacts or glasses. Now, that was FREEDOMMMM baby! Before I had the surgery my up close vision was great. But immediately after I had the Lasix, I couldn't even thread a needle without readers. Speed up to 2010 and I can't even see my typing on the computer screen.So that told me something really bad was wrong.

So to the eye doc I go and find out just how bad my vision is. Farsighted in both eyes with astigmatism and near sighted as well! A double whammy!!! Boy did that hit me like a ton of bricks! But in some respects it doesn't surprise me.

My next appt. will be to get a hearing test. It seems that fibromylagia recks havoc on the eyes and the ears. I wondered what was going on when I was typing and then had double vision..I just attributed it to a side effect of Lyrica. Cuz when I start to have a flareup I get all dizzy, and really have a hard time hearing. It seems to get better after it's over. But I notice I am asking what was said alot lately. That's just another sign of getting old. Is there a way to avoid that? If anyone knows of a way, please let me know. I'll clue you in when I get my hearing checked and if I need a hearing aid.

So I proceeded to pick me out a fancy pair of frames at a hefty price tag as well and getting bifocals without the line. So it's back to glasses again. They've been haunting me ever since the 9th grade. I've finally surrendered. Glasses won.

On another note, I don't consider myself picky, unless you are my hairstylist. It's an art to be able to cut hair, agree? With that in mind and after years of seeking someone who has the true talent of haircutting, instead of putting their hairstyle on you or giving you the most popular style out there. After all, the cost these days is hefty so I expect a decent do. Well today was the day. I hardly ever take time to fancy myself up, but today was an exception. A brand new shop open less than a year moved in my neighborhood and I decided I was going to see if they take walk ins and chat with the stylists for awhile.

Knowing what I want and not taking any photos of movie stars, I told them what I wanted on the top, sides, bottom, sideburns and even how I want it cut. All the young stylists joined in the mission to find just my style in their books. So we disected the bangs from one and the sides from another etc.

The more knowledgeable stylist there cut my hair. OMG I got a perfect cut!! That cut I have been seeking for years right in my own backyard and for a decent price! I'm not letting her go. I'll share my style later as I don't have any photos currently.

So then on my agenda was to take my sweet Molly (6 yr old chihuahua) to the vet to catch her up on shots. This is something I share with my 4 year old grandson, Jayden. He loves to go with me and see all the animals. Molly is caught up till next year and my mind is at ease. And better yet, my husband loves my new style. Of course he always loved me in short hair. So all is well in my world. I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts.

How's everyone been?

2010-06-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

I've been very busy the last few months, not that I'm not always busy, but I guess you could say it's a good thing. There's lots of news regarding Mustard Seed Originals.

First off, allow me to share my newest offering in Create and Decorate magazine HERE

I love the way he turned out. If you don't have a subscription I hear the magazine won't be hitting the shelves until June 15th, but the pattern for this patriotic guy is included and so are 75 other great projects. You'll be glad you purchased it.

They also did a write up on my business on page 54 with several of my designs. Judi did a great job on it. Let me know what you think, will you? It's always nice to get feedback. I'm also selling a new pattern called "Boos Brother" for fall in my ad on page 15. It will be listed under patterns next week on my website so you can get an early start on those fall/halloween designs.

Onto another subject, is it just my imagination, but does it seem that folks aren't blogging much lately? I kind of think most people are doing the facebook thing and the blogs are on the back burner. What's your thinking on this?

TDIPT's June's issue is up for browsing. I've already sold the Parade Watchers but "Saluting the Brave"

is still available along with

"Mr.Moon N Kitty" an early halloween paperclay design, all handformed~no molds used~ design. Of course both are original and one of a kind and closeups can be seen HERE .

That's all for today, be safe and have fun whatever you do

What's Been Happenin

2010-05-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

Alot has been happenin at Mustard Seed Originals! I attended "Glitterfest" in Santa Ana, California, this past weekend. If you live in the local area, I would HIGHLY recommend attending in the fall, October 2nd from 10:00 t0 3:00. You will be so glad you did.

This show was chock full of all sorts of artwork. No imports!! Just pure art. Wonderful jewelry, primitive dolls, crazy dolls from Christy Salacci, halloween art, felted designs by Kerry Schmidt of Papermoon Gallery HERE , and too much to mention. There were shoppers galore.

I got to meet alot of great customers new and old. I was offering a drawing for my little doll that was featured in PRIMS as a giveaway. Each $50 purchase received an entry for her. The person who won was Lonnie Jenck, from Oregon. So this little doll is being sent to her today. BTW I sold the Americana set of mother and daughter that was featured in the PRIMS magazine at Glitterfest.

Cudos to my husband, Mike, for helping me at the show.He's a great salesman and my best fan. Everyone's items were great. Don't miss it in October.

I finally got my spinal cord nerve stimulator implant about a month ago and it is working fantastically!! Now, if I could get rid of this fibromyalgia I would be brand new. Really this scs implant makes life great. I have so much energy but I have to be careful and not overdo or I will pay for it. It's hard because there's so much I want to do now and for someone who basically wasn't able to do anything, my muscles are weak and I have to go slow. But I would recommend this to anyone in pain.

On another note, I will be restocking my website with all new goodies left over from the show and more. However, me and hubs are taking a much needed vacation meeting my dad and stepmom. We haven't seen them for about 3 years. Time flys.

Okay that's it for now. I'll leave you with these photos of some of my designs at Glitterfest. Not the best photos but you can see some of my new stuff. Enjoy!

More News to Share

2010-04-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hi, I hope you're having a great day, thanks for stopping by. I have more great news to share.

In addition to being published in Stampington's newest "PRIMS" magazine, this month is my debut with "Create and Decorate" magazine.

"Mary" is my little garden doll. Her pattern is included in the magazine. I will also be selling the pattern on my website for folks that would like to purchase it and don't receive the magazine.

I am so excited to be designing for C&D. They are such wonderful people!

CHECK BACK FOR GIVEAWAY HERE!!!

I'll be posting again later. Till then, I'll be designing.

Good News for MSO

2010-04-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't heard or seen, many of my dolls have been featured in the brand new magazine "Prims" by Stampington. It will only be a bi-yearly issue but perhaps if enough people participate in submitting designs, it might turn out to be a quarterly type.

Here's a few more

That was one section of my feature. Stampington also included me in a feature farther back in the issue with the following dolls

I'm sorry if you can't read the print. If you're really interested you should stop by a Borders or Barnes & Noble, Michaels or Joanns Fabrics or Hobby Lobby to take a look, or better yet, purchase the magazine. You won't be sorry..it is loaded with great designs. Some by artists I never knew existed.

So is everyone ready to color eggs? We are on Pacific time zone so most of the kids back east are already doing it. How exciting! I remember when I was little we couldn't wait till they were finished boiling.

Happy Easter all you kiddies.

It's that time again folks, well I'm kinda late here. Had some appts to take care of and been super busy (that's GOOD) so I'm just getting around to sharing this info with you all, sorry. I have 3 brand new designs for sale on TDIPT Mercantile for April. In case you haven't seen, there's Pierre, a dapper
22" dapper rabbit making his last delivery for the year. Second is wee little Zoey Malone..a cute as can be Spring rabbit dressed in a butter colored paisley dress and wears a kerchief on her head with artist colored eyes; and lastly is "Sissy's Ole Bear", a 15" worn, torn, mended and patched panda bear that is guaranteed to steal your heart!

Also this month on Humble Arts I am offering two items. The first is "BEAR", an adorable 19" brown bear with white muzzle which is worn, torn and mended too and a the absolute last easter rabbit this year,"Edward Peabody" he's 20" tall and adorable.

Happenins at Mustard Seed Originals

2010-03-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

Have I got alot to tell all you bloggers! First of all Spring has sprung here in Southern California, if only for a week. It's so nice to see all the pretty flowers in the nurseries and gardens. I plan to get some of my own planted hopefully in the next week. Also going to start my little vegetable garden. Nothin like the taste of homegrown veggies. Yum

Have you heard that there's a new magazine coming out bi-yearly called "PRIMS"? It's published by Stampington and is a bit pricey at $14.99however it is almost like a book to add to your collection, instead of a magazine.

Anyway I submitted some designs for publishing and am happy to say they were accepted and are featured in a 2 page spread in the first issue! How cool is that? I haven't received my copy yet to know what the pages are but when I do, I'll certainly have them on my blog.

Also watch for the April issue of Create and Decorate as this is the first issue I am a contributing designer with "Mary's Garden". A wee little doll you will love! I'm having fun designing for this company. They are very nice people to deal with.

On another note, I have recently and continue to restock my website with Spring and Easter designs as well as others, so be sure to stop by when you can and remember I do have a layaway plan too.

Have to share a picture of my swap items I received from a TDIPT sister, Cookie from Curds n Whey. Lots of goodies here with some great chicks and a cute, cute, cute bunny too.

I've swapped with Cookie several times and each time has been a true joy. She's a great swap partner.

I'm getting ready for a giveaway so keep in touch. It'll be before the weekend is over. Till then, keep blogging!

Time for some Updates

2010-02-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

I know..it's been a long time...what can I say? I'm guilty. BUT it's that time again for updates and with it is a special celebration at TDIPT Mercantile. We are 3 years old! Yes we are having our 3rd anniversary this month and there are loads of great giveaways so be sure to check them out.

I have been busy designing a new line of Spring things among the bunnies, chicks and more. Some of my new creations were just added to TDIPT Mercantile HERE, Humble Arts HERE (btw has a brand new look!) and Simply Primitives HERE.

I am also starting a new line of Spring figures handsculpted from the start..NO MOLDS were used!I am very happy with them. Whatcha think?

OOps sorry thier noses got cut off! I will be listing them on ETSY tomorrow sometime. I will also be designing alot of Halloween and Americana figures as well so keep an eye out for them. It's always nice to delve into something new and before we know it it will be time for spooky designs.

My son got married a few weeks ago. He is now a stepfather to little Madison. They moved to Arizona this past week for a better way of life. I can't wait till we follow them. Meanwhile, I am babysitting my grandson while my daughter is visiting New York City. Yes, NYC at this time of year verses staying in Southern California? Crazy huh? They had a bad snowstorm too. You'd never catch me back there now.

Well that's it for me tonight, I'll try and post tomorrow. Keep smiling ~

New Things in a New Year

2010-01-07T19:50:00.000-08:00

Have you made your resolutions and already broke them? For me, so far, so good. One of mine is to take time to cook. Well I should say, take time to make food and freeze it for when I'm not feeing like cooking (ALL THE TIME!!) If there was anything I could have, I would definitely hire a fulltime cook.

You see, I raised 5 children and that's alot of cooking. What is it with these kids nowadays. My two youngest would eat just about anything I prepared except a few things such as broccoli and sweet potatoes. They used to love tacos, sloppy joes, lasagna. But in their older years they snub their noses at these dishes. Of course, they'd much rather have fast food. So who wants to cook anymore? You can't compete with Del Taco or pizza!

Anyways, getting back to my resolution. I feel really bad when I haven't fixed dinner and in walks hubby very hungry..then the stress builds..not that he minds or complains, that's part of the problem..he doesn't. But I just get a really bad feeling that I'm letting him down. You see he will do anything but cook! He hates cooking. So I figured if I could take a day here and there and make some dishes that freeze well, then half the battle is won. I mean who wants to start dinner when you're in the middle of dressing a doll or putting on her face?

I'm currently working on designs for The Primitive Gathering. My new designs for PFATT Marketplace are all finished. Time to gear up for Easter and bunnies, chicks and eggs.

Btw have you seen my new designs on Simply Primitives? Well here's a look for you.You probably remember this little girl...

Isn't she adorable? She even wears a brownie beanie just like the one we wore!! Talk about memories!! Then how about this one

She's called "Catching Hearts" Ann; and lastly She is "Be Mine". Her banner is actually removable and she can be left out all year round. All are for sale on Simply PrimitivesHERE

I will be having a new ad out in Create and Decorates Spring issue which should be hitting the shelves real soon if not already. I have a set of Presidents, George and Abe in pattern form to order. So if you see it and are interested in purchasing the pattern, just email me through my website HERE and let me know. I will post a photo here in a few days and actually have it on my website for purchase as well.

If you'd like to know when I have new designs available, be sure to sign up for my mailing list on my website too.

That's about it tonight.If you're having snow, enjoy it because there's always someone (like ME) that doesn't and would change places with you in a heartbeat!!

Another Year Passed

2010-01-01T21:04:00.000-08:00

Wow, another year has come and gone. It's hard to believe it went that fast. Normally we don't do much for New Year's Day but today we decided to go to breakfast. The streets were empty of cars! How many people really celebrate and stay up all night and sleep late? Even the restaurant was empty. Years ago we wouldn't have thought anything of it, but not now. Is it because they were all recooperating from hangovers or is it the economy? One never knows.

I have all new designs up for sale on HUMBLE ARTS ; and TDIPT MERCANTILE and SIMPLY PRIMITIVES. I have lots of Valentine's designs to be had. Also my newest Snowpeople have debued this month as well. They are so nostalgic looking. Here's the slideshow of the what is on TDIPT

I also have some wild and crazy Valentine's cupids and cherubs for sale on Humble Arts. Here's a sample of what can be found there

Aren't these a hoot? Check them out over at Humble Arts..they are first come, first served and make great little gifties for our friends, hairdresser, teachers, nurses, swap partners, secret sisters..you name it, they'll love it!

Lastly I have several different Raggedy Anns over on Simply Prims. Take some time to browse the sites and check out all the great designs everyone has created.

With the new year arriving I will be downsizing my studio and parting with lots of treasures I have been accumulating for my art. Watch for some great deals on ebay, etsy or both. That will be fun.

Well it's time I retired for the evening. Be sure to check out my website HERE for some great designs. Think Spring!!

Santa is Coming To Town!!!

2009-12-03T17:11:00.001-08:00

The lights are twinkling, trees with lights everywhere, christmas carols are getting sung and cookies and milk are on a plate...yep, it's almost Christmas Eve. Where the heck did the time go? Slipped right through my fingers, I know that.

It seems I never have enough time to design for Christmas. I love making Santas and all the little toys that go with the Santa. I currently have several different Santas up for sale on Humble Arts HERE and TDIPT Mercantile
HERE and Simply Primitives HERE. The three of them are pictured in this slideshow.

Check the sites for the prices. It's first come, first served and they are one of a kind only.

In some places, snow is falling..here in Southern California we haven't been so lucky. I love designing snow people. This "Ice Princess" is so much cuter than pictures capture. The perfect design to add to your winter collection.

Her selling price is $150.00 + shipping. Email me if you'd like to purchase here or go to PFATT Marketplace HERE

I also have another adorable Christmas creation for sale, "Christmas Cheer", is a stocking filled with all sorts of unique items including Annie holding a wee gingerbread man, a nutcracker, candy cane, and decorated tree, all sprinkled with glass glitter.

It's 19" tall and comes with a hanger on the back. It is $85.00 + shipping. Email me to order, again, this is a one of a kind design.

I added some new dolls on my website under the orphanage. Stop by and check them out HERE I plan to add more this weekend, so be sure to check it out.

I'm still asking for email addresses from old customers and new. I lost all of my addresses as stated below. Hope to get the message out there.

That's it from here for awhile...hope to post more soon. Stay warm.

2009-11-04T19:59:00.000-08:00

I made an awful mistake of not backing up my email addresses; and consequently when my new (Aug 09)computer (Gateway) crashed I lost all of my mailing list addresses. So if you're one of my customers who were on my mailing list, please email me so I can add you to my new mailing list.

I had heard that Gateway were not that great brand of computer, however, after dealing with Hewlett Packard, I decided that Gateway was probably better than HP. HA!! 1 week after my purchase my new computer crashed...and now again this last week. This time it is sent away for a new hard drive. From what the geeksquad guy says..this happens all the time with computers!! Thank goodness I paid for the blacktie service, because I should expect to get my computer back in 3-4 weeks...without any data being saved because I didn't pay the extra $100.00...money, money, money..didn't I pay enough already???

Onto better news...Did you hear about the giveaway we are having over at TDIPT Mercantile? Check it out HERE Lots of great items to win. I even contributed one of my primitive santie makedos. Also check out our "Fall Into Christmas" booklets filled with all sorts of recipes, tips, and several patterns including one from me of my scarecrows. It is well worth the $6.95. Would make great gifts for the upcoming holidays. All funds go to charities - Miracle Network and ASPCA for animals. So be sure to check it out.

I also have several santie makedos for sale over at Humblearts. Watch for some new holiday designs on Pfatt Marketplace on the 10th and The Primitive Gathering on the 15th.

Tomorrow's going to be a FUN day for me. My dd and I are going to a sewing, craft festival in Pomona, California. It happens 2 times a year and I missed it the last few years. We always go to some thrift shops around that area too. We recently lost our biggest thrift shop last month and are down to just a few littler ones. Bummer!

I'm having a sale off all my Fall, Halloween designs on my website....25% off..with this password "autumn".Click HEREHope to hear from you,till later, keep safe.

News from Southern California

2009-10-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

This past week it snowed at home (Pennsylvania). Meanwhile, here in Southern California it's up in the 80's. We had one cold day last week and I knew it was too good to be true that we were into fall. Sure wish I lived back east still, but those days are gone. Why is it that when we have something we take it for granted? Like for instance, back east when I was growing up we had parades for everything and every occasion. The fire stations were always throwing some sort of parties or celebrations. There were carnivals and fairs all during summer and alot of them cost very little or were free to get into. Ahhh those were the days. I'm sure it's alot different (free entrance), but I bet there's still carnivals and parades like there used to be.

You don't hear of many parades here..well except for the big Rose Bowl parade every year..that's about it. Everyone is in a hurry, going someplace and if there is an event or carnival, you'd be lucky to be able to pay the entrance fee.
Guess that just goes along with living in a state where Hollywood is.

I got a big surprise yesterday from my son. We have an addition to our family of dogs. My brand new 3 month old granddoggy, Precious. A wee little chihuahua. Here we are

and another one..I still have that granny touch Awww isn't she too cute? I can't believe my Molly used to be that little

Don't forget to check out TDIPT Mercantile's blog HERE cuz we are having some giveaways you won't want to miss out on.

One last note is I have lots of great deals on items on Pfatt Marketplace HERE; on Simply Primitives HERE;and on The Primitive Gathering HERE.

I promise to have new items on TDIPT next month.Also I am going to list new items on my Etsy today too. I'm downsizing and getting rid of alot of cool supplies and other things. Be sure to check it out HERE

Welcome Fall

2009-10-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

I think it might really be here! Fall that is. I had to leave early this morning to have a medical procedure and it was 40 something degrees out. BRR that's cold for someone who lives in the high desert-Victorville area. Of course, as usual, it's warmed up and beautiful outside now. Thank God for the Sun :-)

I am a badddd blogger. I LOVE to read other's blogs, but when it comes to mine, I just can't seem to find time to work it. Any tips? Just pass them along cuz Lord knows I need them.

I have a brand new pattern for 2009 holiday season, however, she could be left out all year because Lord knows too that we need PEACE! She's Peace Angel~made her debut in Create and Decorate's current magazine ad. If you'd like to purchase her, just zip me an email or visit my website at www.mustardseedoriginals.com. She is $12.ppd. I accept Paypal, checks or money orders. Isn't she gorgeous?

Check out my website for more closer photos of her and more info regarding her too.

For some new NEWS I will be offering a new pattern just designed which will be debuting in Create and Decorate magazine. Each new magazine will feature a new pattern for purchase, Stay tuned for some great designs!!

Been taking 2 computer classes online from our local community college. Was doing good till this week HA can't figure the darn form out to save my soul. I really prefer the classroom verses this. Mainly because you have no one to ask questions from. Also the computer grades one of my classes and it always happens that I put the right answer in, just not in the same words as the correct one the computer knows and I get that big old red X. I hate those!!

We have alot of new stuff going on in the coming months on TDIPT Mercantile...be sure you check it out HEREThere will be giveaways! yayyy everyone like giveaways!!

Be sure to check out my Etsy because I will be listing some new items on there soon. Hope yall enjoy the cooler weather :-)
Cheers, Sharon

Where Did Summer Go?

2009-08-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I didn't realize it's been this long since I last posted. Please forgive me! Life just had a hold on me for a few months. My husband was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and was getting Tomotherapy at City of Hope. Luckily, they caught it in the beginning stages and were able to treat it successfully. Matter of fact, if he hadn't been so young (57) they probably wouldn't even have treated it since it was such a slow growing cancer. LADIES!! Make sure your hubby's get their yearly prostate digital exams and if over 50, a PSA reading (bloodtest) every year. If my husband had not gotten his test on his yearly exam, he never would have known he had cancer. So make sure the men in your life are checked! Even if it's just to keep him working to support your habit! hehe j/k girls..j/k

Have you visited TDIPT Mercantile this month yet? If not, you are in for a great treat. This month us artists are having a Bippity-boppity-BOO, Happy Halloween from TDIPT to You theme this month. There are loads of goodies that all of us 1st of the monthers have for sale. Be sure to check out mine HERE. I have three great designs to choose from for our Halloween theme at great low prices! My favorite is "Albert Minds the Farm". What's your favorite? Also, DID YOU KNOW that I have a layaway plan? All I ask for is 1/2 up front, and the rest in 30 days. Don't worry, I'll be entertaining your dolly till you can officially adopt it and I treat all my babys well ;-). Just email me and we'll talk! I know it's hard on everyone right now, including me, and I really would like to offer you an opportunity to support your dolly addicting habit!! Hey, I know how it is! hehe Remember to check out my Etsy and my website for designs for sale by clicking on the link on my blog in the left side of the screen.

For all you pattern addicts, I will be offering some great new Fall and Christmas patterns on my website. I will also be featuring a pattern in Country Sampler's Holiday issue and becoming a contributing artist in Create and Decorate as well. So if you purchase any of these magazines, watch for some designs by me and zip me a note letting me know. I just like to get feedback to see whom I reach. Thanks a bunch.

Have you seen my newest interest? It's my paperclay figures (that word sounds weird but couldn't think of a better one). I have been having a blast creating these creatures off the top of my head. I'm learning as I go. There's a couple on my Etsy page and some on my website as well. Be sure to check em out and lemme know whatcha think!I'd appreciate it. It's always fun and does the brain good to creep out of you comfort zone and try something new. I have also been discovering quilting and gone back to my old sewing clothes which is fun. I have 7 granddaughters and 5 grandsons to sew for! Wow didn't realize it was that many, and I have a brand new Janome sewing machine that I am reserving just for sewing my stuff. I'm really hard on sewing machines and my work one right now is majorly dirty with coffee and paint all over it. I'm a slob when I work, I admit it!Speaking of sewing, I'm taking today off to work on some ME projects!

How many were able to attend the Long Beach Quilt Show? I shopped till I dropped! OMG..I found the most wonderful shoes. They should have had their booth at the beginning of the show, instead of at the end! The Walk The Walk shoes are wonderful!!! I purchased the Thong Sandals in brown.

Ouu heavenly! They are really great for folks that have back problems, arthritis, diabetics and on and on. They DO WORK!! Now, foks these are pricey, but Soooo well worth it.

In addition, I supported my fabricholic addiction as well but I was pleasantly controlled because I forgot my Debit card in the car in my purse (took a fanny pack to the show). For some odd reason (Ok Lord, I get it!) I didn't even take all the cash I had out of my wallet (just carried my checkbook) and a wee bit of cash. Now, tell me someone wasn't trying to tell me something??!! But I did manage to get some great patterns.Check out this great pattern by Reet's Rags To Stitches

One the Road Again-Part 1" is a great big ole travel bag. However, I'm going to use it as a tote bag. I tried to purchase the same fabric as the one in the picture which is called "Arcadia", however, I couldn't find all the exact colors. I did order some other bird fabric that will work wonderfully. I'll post pictures when it's finished. Hopefully the fabric will come in the mail today.

My sewing machine is calling my name..Till later..keep crafting!

Happy May Day

2009-05-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

Well summer is almost in full swing. Not too much longer here in Southern California deserts.

Have you all remembered to check out the 1st of the month selling sites? I have several great NEW designs available on TDIPT Mercantile,HERE where we are having a "Made in America" challenge. Lots of great items there for sale.

Then on Humble Arts HERE there are a bunch more NEW designs with our Wing Ding Chicken Fling. You MUST get involved in finding the feathers and posting on blogs to win the giveaways!! Don't miss out.

Then on Simply Primitives HERE you will find more NEW designs from me. Here's a slideshow of my designs offered on all pf the sites.

So if there's anything you'd like to purchase, just jump on over to one of the sites and give me a holler.

Last weekend we went over to Arizona to see the inside of our house that we are purchasing. It is soo nice! We had to take our 3 (as of May 3rd) grandson, Jayden, with us since mom didn't have a sitter like posted the other day. Here's a cute picture of him and his cousin, Ashlyne, at IHOP. Too cute huh?

. We had his 3rd birthday party a little bit early since he will be spending the day with his daddy. It was held at one of his favorite spots~Chuck E. Cheese's with all his friends at daycare coming. It was a fun time. .

Hope you have a great weekend!

Giveaways!!!

2009-04-27T13:25:00.001-07:00

K, folks here's some pictures of the items you can win on May's HARTS Wing Ding Chicken Fling.

Rules for Humble Arts Giveaways

2009-04-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday all!!

Let me clarify the rules of our giveaways so everyone knows exactly what has to be done in order to qualify to win!

FIRST AND FOREMOST...you MUST visit HARTS (HUMBLE ARTS) HERE to be eligible to win.

Here are the ways you can get entries:

First, you can get one entry in the drawing for one of these goodies by putting our fun little banner on your blog. Grab one from earlier post.

Secondly, you can get yet another entry in by promoting our Wing Ding Chicken Fling on your own blog.

Lastly, you can find a feather on each of the participating member's(THAT INCLUDES ME!) blogs - find the feather,(hint hint: Who is Lisa Bongean?)
email me with WHERE you found the feather.

On May 1, we will also have a few feathers flying around The Humble Arts. Find those and you will get YET ANOTHER entry! Wee Dawgies!

NOW, DOES THIS SOUND LIKE FUN? YEEEHAWWW!!

Good old fashioned fun!! So make sure you get those peepers to start searching on May 1st. Cuz before you know it it'll be over and you won't have won (NO FUN).
Here's some of our offerings for sale on May 1st edition of Humble Arts:

Fun, Fun, Fun and FREEBIES!!!

2009-04-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

As some of you already know, we are celebrating "chickens" on Humble Arts (HARTS) site for the month of May. You will be in for some fun!!

Here's the rules:
Here is the first rule of the Humble Arts Wing Ding Chicken Fling giveaways.
Take either picture below and post it to your blog. Leave a comment here, letting me know that you have done so. That is one automatic name in the pot for the drawings.
I will be posting some pics of the giveaways later.CLICK HERE

NOW..I KNOW ALL OF YOU LOVE GIVEAWAYS!! So get busy and tell your friends..c'mon don't be stingy..shame on you! Believe me, I have seen some of the giveaways an they are awesome! You won't want to miss out.

AMERICANA IN MAY

2009-04-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to letcha know that we gals at TDIPT Mercantile are having an Americana in May this month.
TDIPT Mercantile will be chock full of your favorite Patriotic subjects...whether it's Uncle Sam, Lady Liberty or anything in between.....we'll have Red White and Blue galore, and just in time for all of the
fun summer American Holidays!

Be sure to stop by on May 1st

Website Sale

2009-04-22T13:03:00.000-07:00

If your a primitive doll lover, you are in for a treat!! I am having a website clearance sale. Be sure to grab your snacks to keep you while you browse.Click Here Not every item is lowered but alot are and at great sales prices.

Also..be sure to check out our May edition of Humble Arts. We are having a chicken challenge. Be prepared to be blown away if you like chickens. However, if you don't, there will be plenty of other designs available for you too!

Here in Southern California it has warmed up. Nice to have our windows open and fans going. Wish it would stay like this yearround but it is better than snow.

Got the inspection and appraisal on our property in Avondale. It's supposed to close escrow on May 15th. My oldest daughter, Kim, and her family will be residing it in for about 2 years till we move over there to Arizona, or earlier depending on if dh gets a job over there.

If your a pattern person and like to make your own projects or items for sale, watch for an announcement of my release of new patterns on my website. I will have at least 3 new designs in the next month to be offered on my website. I also advertise in Create and Decorate magazine and Country Sampler. Let me know what kind of patterns you'd like to see.

Well I gotta get to the design room so that's it for today. Hope you have a sunshiny day.

Some Good News

2009-04-11T19:15:00.000-07:00

We received some great news today...our offer was accepted for a house in Avondale, Arizona. Here's a picture of what's in the backyard

Nice huh? We told ourselves (after having a pool at the home we currently reside in California) that we would never have a pool again, but this one was so pretty and inviting we couldn't turn it down. Plus having a pool in Arizona is certainly different from having one in the desert with all the wild winds and high temps in the daytime and low at night which never allow the water to get warm. Don't think we'll have that problem there. Plus I know our 12 grandchildren will love it. I'm just as excited about the above ground spa too. Just love those. We had one several years ago and for my fibro it'll be great.

I didn't mention in my earlier post that I was having alot of pain from the stress of everything. I was totally miserable. My holistic doctor called me in some strong painkillers which really helped. So now it's subsided.

My sister kept me abreast as to how the private viewing went and it seems everything was smooth as creamy pb. She sent me some pictures of the family and a few of my brother. He looks so peaceful and just the way I remember him. Odd but true.

So back to the home in Arizona, unless the Lord has other ideas, we will be renting out the home till we retire from California (which today isn't soon enough hehe) and head over there. Never know what the Lord has planned. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Mike (dh) was offered a job out of the blue, the way everything is falling into place. That's just the way the Lord's plans work.

On another note, if you haven't visited my website lately, take some time next week to stop by as I am updating it with more items at low prices.

CALLING ALL CHICKEN LOVERS~~us gals at Humble Arts are having a "Wing Ding Chicken Fling" challenge in May. So watch for great chicken creations and maybe even some door prizes! Don't miss out!

Also there will be a brand new selling site called "Early Work Mercantile" that I will be a part of. I know, another site! YIKES, I just couldn't resist. Be sure to watch for some great primitive designs from top artists in the primitive world.

I also will be starting a selling blog and will have some giveaways there too. AND...I will be offering more patterns soon on my website. I guess I have my work cut out for me. Be sure to stop by Pfatt Marketplace ..the April issue came yesterday. Remember also to check out The Primitive Gathering for April on the 15th. Some great designs will be up for purchase there too.

K, that's it for today. Hope everyone has a good Easter tomorrow. Gotta go color eggs with my grandson. Later

A Sad Sunday in April

2009-04-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

Just walked in the door on Sunday evening after a 6 hour drive from Arizona to the phone ringing off the hook. Come to find out I had 10 messages, most from my sister that one of my younger brothers, Kerry, had passed away.

It really wasn't much of a shock to me, even at his young age of 52. Reason being is that he was ill for the past 10 years..or probably longer and wasn't aware. He had developed Scilosis which is Silica Sand poisoning. The company he had worked for, was unaware that the sand was lethal and used it regularly in the line of work my brother performed. There were actually 4 individuals that did this same job. 3 of them already died, and my brother was the last of the 4, and he knew this. Wow..what a fate to hear.

He had one daughter, Nicole, 23 years old and 2 grandchildren. He resided in WV but was originally from PA. He was a twin to my brother, Kevin, who is taking if very hard as they were best friends through life.

Now on another note..I come from one of the most dysfunctional families around. My parents divorced after I left home, but before that, there was discord in our family constantly. My mother did not accept losing my father, so she turned to the bottle. This was over 33years ago. She is now 78. To be honest, I am surprise she has lasted this long. She also smokes like 2-3 packs a day and has ever since I can remember.

So as you can imagine, I am glad I don't live near her in WV. Unfortunately my brother, Kerry, was paying the rent on the home that they lived in (my brother and mother). So now my mother has nowhere to live.

Kerry recieved a settlement from the union for getting the poisoning. You'd think he would have put away money to take care of his funeral expenses..NO..so now this expense falls on people who have no money.

There were 6 kids in my family, me being the oldest, four brothers, and then my sister. I left PA (home) in 1972, when my first husband entered the Air Force, so I have been away for a long time, except little visits every so many years. The last time I saw my brother was in 1991 when I returned home for a class reunion.

Tomorrow all my immediate family from PA will be having a private viewing of my brother in WV and then he will be cremated and spread over his favorite fishing hole. He loved to fish, every weekend he was fishing and camping until he couldn't do it anymore due to the illness.

My thoughts are with everyone there. Plane tickets were so high and with times the way they are I just didn't have flying $$ so when they have the memorial service later in PA, I will be skyping it. This is the next best thing. Plus I won't have to deal with all the dysfunction over the "body" as is going on. So and so wanting this, and so and so wanting something else. PLEASE~If you do anything, get a trust so that folks won't be fighting over you or your belongings! How childish! But typical for my family. If there are any children of alcoholics or family of alcoholics you can relate, I'm sure.

Please call your family today and tell them you love them..Kerry knew I loved him and I knew he loved me ...and the Lord. So it is well with my soul....

Making Progress

2009-04-03T17:11:00.000-07:00

Just thought that I'd post about how our home search is going here in Arizona. OMG there are so many homes to choose from...so so sad..this means others have had to lose their homes which is sooo sad.
On another note, it is unbelieveable how some folks live! Gosh, some of the homes with carpet looks like if a pop was dropped they just let it soak in with no evidence there was any attempt to wipe it up!! And the walls...OMG alot of the walls are filthy..it's hard to believe people lived in these homes in the filth.
Among the 12 homes we viewed today there were only 2 that we somewhat liked. Some of the floor plans make you scratch your head and think...what was the builder thinking? hehe probably evidence that the builder WAS NOT a woman hehe
I'm sure we'll find one, if not this trip then perhaps another one. We do really love it over here, and it's so nice to be near a military installation once again.
Now we have to really think about when we might want to retire...to wait out the 2 years (hubby will be 60 then) or just retire from California, and then move over here and get a job nearby. Either way, he will never totally retire anyways.
That's where we are now.
I can't believe how much better the food is at the restaurants here as well! It actually tastes like real food, not plastic with generous portions too! So if you're thinking of moving to California, my suggestion would be FORGET it!! Too liberal and expensive. Oh and don't even try to do anything to harm those tiny little smelt fish or you could be behind bars! Till later...our search continues tomorrow.

Happy April's Fool

2009-04-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

Where is the year going? My goodness it was just January, it seems. I have been wanting to write some but have been so darn busy lately, but then again, busy is a good thing.

Can't believe it's almost Easter, and some days Spring is around, others, it still feels like winter, even here in Southern California. I love the warm days, especially if there's no wind. Here in the desert there's lots of wind.

Hubby and I are leaving tomorrow afternoon to drive over to Arizona in search of a home to purchase for our retirement. We are looking to settle in Avondale, Arizona, which is on the outskirts of Phoenix, and near Luke AFB. We are retired Air Force and want to live near a base to be able to use the commissary frequently. They've closed all the bases around us here in Southern California, so this will be a treat.

We have a very aggressive realtor and have a loan company set up to help us expedite it quickly. I'm sure we'll find something we like. Matter of fact, our agent has been sending us houses via www to view that we might be interested in. There are some great buys out there. Now's the time to purchase.

We can't move to Arizona fast enough! We (California) just got our sales tax increased 1% to help cover the budget. We are also looking at paying double DMV registrations as well on our vehicles. Supposedly, this is all temporary...yeah right...another country heard from.

With the first of the month upon us, don't forget to check out The Humble Arts . This month we were challenged to participate in a Storybook Character Theme. I created "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Pinocchio". I am soo proud of my Pinocchio! He is so vintage looking! Be sure to take time to browse that site for some great eye candy.

Also TDIPT Mercantile has 3 new bunnies I designed with my signature petal bonnets four your purchase and Simply Primitives is also home to several more of my Spring designs in addition to my newest "Wee Bunnies" collection..they are only a wee 13" tall. Still lots of great items for purchase.

Well that's about it for tonight. I'll post when I get back on Monday from Arizona. Wish us luck.

March Offerings

2009-02-28T19:18:00.001-08:00

Happy March 1st

2009-02-28T17:46:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it's already March? Time is flying by! Happy St. Patrick's Day~a wee bit early.

It's also that time again for new issues of several online websites chuck full of great new Spring designs for your purchase consideration.

However, this month is a very special month for us TDIPT designers...the Mercantile is officially 2 years old!! We are so excited about this and are having a big ole birthday bash on TDIPT Mercantile this month that you won't want to miss!! Among the fun, we are having all kinds of prize giveaways. Not just your ordinary stuff you can find or purchase anywhere, but folks, this is quality, top notch, from the heart ..ART! and it's FREE. Be sure to check it out HERE

Be sure to check out all the newest March designs offered by the first of the monthers on TDIPT Merc. as well. This month I am offering 3 great Spring Rabbits! I just love designing these and boy, oh boy, do they steal your heart! Be sure to stop by my personal selling page of TDIPT HERE . Be sure to refresh your page if you are not viewing the current issue.

Then moving right along, I have 3 more great new designs on Humble Arts HERE . If you've seen my newest "mini rabbettes"..well these are "hares" and "more hares". Wee little rabbits (5-7" tall) at very affordable prices. It's first come, first served folks so hurry and go look. Also another adorable rabbit named "Flopsy" is in need of adoption. Have fun looking..be sure to peek at all the other great designs by the other artists as well.

and then lastly, as far as offerings this month..is Simply Primitives. There's more rabbits hiding out there..I swear these rabbits are multiplying faster than I can keep track of! hehe Oh yeah and you've got to see my sooo ecentric Patrick..a unique shamrock doll just too cool HERE Again, be sure to check out all the first of the month offerings there as well. Us starving artists appreciate it!hehe might sound funny, but true for some.

Phew, that was a mouthful...now onto some other news. Gosh it's been so long since I blogged this might be a long post.

I have alot of new happenings going on for Mustard Seed Originals. Watch for a new selling blog! YEP..it's coming this month. There will be auctions; items for sale (early bird gets the worm kind) which are all one of a kind only; and GIVEAWAYS too!! Too much fun! Stay tuned for more.

Also if you haven't joined Facebook, Linked In or Ryze, you need to! It's a must for all business owners. Besides, they're fun too! I've also got something else up my sleeve, but have to research more on it. A tutorial site for primitive designs..whatcha think? I might not be able to teach many of you great primitive designers but there are some folks that I think would love it! A group limited of course that would be walked through a process...sorta like taking a class at your favorite quilt shop or what have you. Too much more fun huh? Lemme hear from you about what you'd like to see in a class, ie..needlepunch, rug hooking, dolly designing...

Please remember that I DO accept Layaway on my designs. Email me if you are interested. I know how tough it is for everyone in this current economy so please don't be shy. Everyone needs a "pick me up" and I'm glad to help out.

Have a great March 1st

What's in a Day

2009-01-29T20:17:00.000-08:00

Geez..it's been awhile again. Darn, maybe someday I will get on a good roll and post more regularly. I promise, I'll try ;-)
I've had some setbacks tho that I think justify my time being away. First of all I have been having alot of back problems, once again. Just had my right side of my buttock area nerve endings killed to help with the pain. OMG did that hurt!! Worse pain yet! I thought that treatment would never end, and I have a high pain tolerance. And worse yet, I have to go back on Monday and get the left side done. And can you believe after all this pain...they will grow back in appx 3mths to 1 year! Those nasty nerves! Just rip em out hehe Oh well, everyone has their cross to bear and I suppose this one is mine.
Meanwhile my pain management doctor contacted my insurance to see what the coverage would be for me to get a neurostimulator transplanted in my back for the pain. Know the actor Jerry Lewis who does the Muscular Dystrophy fundraisers? Well he has one and has done very well. Before that he was on steroids probably prednisone and got really heavy etc. After having the neurostimulator implanted, he is doin really well and has his life back and has lost alot of weight.
Anyways...my insurance said I have to be seen by a surgeon to rule out more surgery!! No way is anyone operating on me ever again..this is why I have this problem to begin with!!! NOPE! Never again.
Then we were hit with some bittersweet news. My husband has prostate cancer. They say it's the best cancer to have?. Supposedly it's the easier cancer to treat. I know this sounds selfish but I really don't feel very lucky at this point. He still has cancer. We are checking our options and looks like he's going to have surgery at the City of Hope in Los Angeles with the robotic surgery thingy they have called Da Vinci. It's pretty cool. and he should only have to be in the hospital overnight. That's wonderful. The other good thing is ..my dh didn't know he had anything and wouldn't have known if he hadn't had a PSA. He is really good about getting yearly exams too. Make sure you have your husband get his digital rectal exams girls!! You won't be sorry..also PSAs on time!!! You never know if he could have cancer.
My husbands is slowgrowing, yet needs to be treated immediately. Right now his CAT and bone scan are all clear. Thank God!!
Well I'll try to be more upbeat on my next post.
Be sure to check out all the website updates on the 1st of the month. I have new designs for Valentine's Day, more icey folks and Easter on those you won't wanna miss!!

What A Difference A Day Makes

2008-12-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

Well the sun is back in desert of Southern California. We went from this

to this in approximately 1 day! Even all the snowmen have gone away. It was nice while it lasted though. I suppose that'll set us for 20 more years or so.

Are you all starting to list your New Year's Resolutions? Well, I have started working on some of them so they will be in place for the 1st of the year.

I have some great ideas to improve my business, Mustard Seed Originals. If you haven't visited my websiteHere you might be surprised that I have recooped my pattern line. There's only a few on there now, but watch for more great, original patterns to come.

Speaking of patterns, I currently have an ad in December's issue of Country Sampler in the pattern section (towards the back) for this doll Old Tyme Ann Isn't she adorable? I am having good response so far from the ad.She's not difficult to make at all. See? You never know what you'll find out there! hehe I usually only do a website ad in that magazine but once in awhile I get some special deals and take them up on their offer.

Have so much to do before the special day arrives. It doesn't help that we are moving our daughter and grandson in with us. I swear, where does this 21 year old get all this stuff? I thought I had alot of junk! My goodness!

Well I better close this so I can get to work, but before I do, I just have to share this picture of my 2 year old grandson, Jayden Michael, one day when I was babysitting him. He's so funny, a little chatterbox and lover.

Who Said It Never Snows In Southern California?

2008-12-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

Well they would have changed their mind if they were living here on Wednesday morning. This is what I woke up to?

We have never had this much snow since I've lived her (9/79). We might have a few flurries or a few inches of sleety snow, but never the good powdery, snowman making kind like this is. Better yet, it snowed all day long.

Now the bad part is is that today Mr. Sunshine came out and is melting it all away and making a real mess of it all. Living in the desert means higher temps in the daytime with low temps at night. So it melts in the day and freezes in the night. But even with all that, I love it and it SO reminds me of growing up back east when I was a child.

Had to share this picture of my adorable 2 yo grandson, Jayden. This was his first time experiencing snow and he loved it.

I had a brief lapse in posting because I had to have my chihuahua, Molly, treated at the Vet for pork poisoning. She had to stay there 3 days. Her momma, dummy as she is, did not know that pork is toxic for dogs. I have given her numerous pork bones before and she was fine. Lesson learned. Glad I have pet insurance! She's home now and resting up with her 3 different kinds of meds. Gotta love em.Her the darling is. Her eyes are brown but the flash makes em blue. She's back to her old begging self, with a bit of laziness here and there.

Since I'm already late on getting this posted, the sun is really melting our snow. I can hear it dripping from the roof, although our swimming pool and spa are frozen on the top. Too bad it's not completely frozen or we could ice skate on it. Well, I don't know that I could hehe I did take a couple of little falls on the ice/snow and boy am I paying for it today! I swear I didn't know I had this many muscles hehe.

Hope everyone has a great weekend. I still have some shopping to do. Wish there was a REAL santa ;-)

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

2008-12-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for Christmas yet? We're getting there. We put up our 12 ft tree. Still have to put lights up outside. Since our 2 year old grandson enjoys them so much, we are more in the mood than ever to celebrate. We went over to our daughter's apartment that she's moving from, to live with us (w/our grandson) and he insisted on driving around to look at all the pretty lights. So we did a little and will have to devote several nights to taking him for rides. I love looking at lights too, and am so glad folks haven't let the economy stop them from putting them up.

A little note on my previous post regarding seeing Holtorf Medical Group (holistic doctors). I am having much success, however, since my insurance refuses to pay and I am on a cash basis, I won't be able to get many IV treatments. Very expensive! I wish the government would step in and help the citizens with this. I'm sure there's alot of us that could use some "bailing out".

I will be cooking a "Thanksgiving" meal for Christmas. We went out for Thanksgiving as we left for vacation on Friday through Monday after Thanksgiving. Hubs and I shared 4 days in Vegas at our timeshare. I love going there. It's off the strip and so relaxing. No cooking, cleaning or anything.

The weather here in the desert (high) of Southern California goes from cold to warm and vice versa, however, it tends to be really cold at night.

I recently purchased some AWESOME microfleece sheets from Walmart that everyone was ranting about on a message board I'm a member of. I ordered 2 sets ($44.95 + tax for King size a set). I got them thinking that since hubby is always cold that he would like them. Me, I'm always warm and was somewhat concerned that I would be roasting. What a surprise when I crawled into bed..they are soo darn comfortable and not hot at all. I would highly recommend them!

Well my sewing room is calling my name and I really need to get back to work. Just wanted to stop and share a few things. Promise to do more later..:-)

Where's Fall?

2008-11-19T15:08:00.000-08:00

Something very unique to the high desert of Southern California, you can have 4 seasons in one day! It has happened before. Right now, I'm wondering where fall is. In the morning it's chilly but by afternoon shorts are the clothing of choice with the sunshining.

I'm sure everyone has read about all the fires out this way. So sad. Alot of mobile home parks look like they were bombed. Used to be we only had fires in the fall, not anymore, we have them year round. Don't know why but it's sad.

Personally, I'd rather live where you have 4 seasons and snow. I could use to lose a few pounds by shoveling some snow.

I had some surgery last Tuesday, guess I could share that earlier this year (February) I elected to have a "Life Style Lift". You know, the ones with all the commercials about how the down time is so little, you will be able to go back to work in several days yada yada yada...I had my eyelids and lower lids fixed, my jowls (sagging) and neck sculpted.

I was very happy with my eyes, however, since they do not use drains (and make a big deal about the fact that they don't) I developed a huge hematoma under my chin. When I went back to get it checked it had to be drained several times. Needless to say I was in pain, not only on my face but my pocketbook as well! However, my doctor made it right and I had to drive down there (99 miles) several times over the months to get cortisone injections as scar tissue developed and the shots were to break it up so it could be reoperated on and removed. So I had that surgery last Tuesday.

So far, I'm not impressed. I'm still in ALOT of pain..told that next week I can use heat and then have to massage it alot to "get the look" I want. Which is a "no gathered or puckered" look..we'll see. So I know you are all dying to know it I'd do it again. NO!!!! I'd live with the jowls and extra skin on my neck. Not worth the pain or the $$.

Found another great resource for my fibromyalgia online. Luckily for me, the doctor (Medical group) is in Torrance, California which is apx 102 miles from me. Besides the fact that I had to pay cash for my visit which was quite costly (but will be reimbursed for some of it from my insurance company) I was VERY PLEASED!! Dr. Moses Laufer told me I am very sick. He explained who the disease affects our bodies..it's amazing. We arrived at 12:30 pm and finally were able to leave at 6:00pm. I had 4 IV bags of nutrients and medication as my immune system has been badly compromised. I also came home with VitB-12 shots to administer myself.

Dr. Laufer (Holtorf Medical Group) treats with bio-identical hormones and supplements and vitamins. I am feeling better with the fibro than I have felt in years!! Truly. He is testing alot of my 'chemicals' in my body throughly including my thyroid, hormones etc. I was not on any hormones which was another problem. So hopefully in a few months I will really be feeling good and having energy finally!!! I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thank God I have good insurance through hubby's work!!

Starting Over

2008-09-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

I titled this post starting over because here I go again, got away from blogging. My life has been crazy lately...does that count? hehe

Not only am I dealing with my life and it's ups and downs, but also my 20 yo daughter's life with my 2 year old grandson. She's going through a divorce right now and it's hard not to get involved with her and my soon to be son in law arguing all the time. There should be a law about "children" playing house!! It's maddening cuz the little ones are the ones who suffer. Okay I'll get off that wagon and onto another...the economy...whoa that's a BIG one! Although we are all in the same boat with the money crisis. It's pretty bad in Southern California. However, every so many years it seems we go through the foreclosures around here. This time the whole country is going through it with us. What a mess?

Feel sorry for the next president who inherits this mess! Okay..don't throw tomatoes at me..but I truly hope that McCain wins. We will be in BIG trouble if Obama wins. I don't like hate mail so that's as far as I'll go on the presidential race topic.

I'm planning to take part in a craft festival, which I haven't done for years! I'm going to be participating at "Sugar Plum Festival" in Pomona, California at the Fairplex. If you live nearby make sure you don't miss this show. It is held HERE.

I won't personally be there because I am participating in the "Barn" which is a drop off, pick up blended area. There are alot of imports, however, there are still some handcrafted designs available for purchase from designers like me, so don't let the imports scare you!! Help out us starving artists! hehe I will have tags on my designs with my Mustard Seed Original logo so you will be able to find my items. I usually sell out quickly so be sure to get there early for best selection.

On another note, I just found out that my nephew, Kory Rabenold, for anyone who follows NASCAR racing, was just picked by Jeff Gordon to be a driver! This kid (20 yo) has been racing since he could practically walk. He started out at the bottom and boy can he drive! He will drive with ARCA right now and work his way up. So if you go to any ARCA races or watch any on TV and they mention that Kory Rabenold is the driver say a HURRAY for me! Will ya? Can you tell I'm a proud aunt??

One of the reasons I have been missing in action is because of this OUCH! This is no ordinary needle, it's a catheter used for epidurals. This is what I get several of every week or so from my Pain Management Specialist in my lower back all the way to the top. Along with my pain from fibromyalgia, I also have nerve and muscle pain from my back surgery 7 years ago. I try to manage it by getting deep tissue massage once a week as well. Oh well everyone has a cross to bear and this is mine. Thank Goodness it's not Cancer. If it's any consolation, my doctor is an angel :-)

I have several new designs for purchase on three different co-op websites this week. I have three new designs on TDIPT; HUMBLE ARTS; and SIMPLY PRIMITIVES..be sure to check them all out on the 1st of October. Remember to refresh your pages to see the new October items.

One last thing I'd like to say is I apologize to several different bloggers bigtime! They have been so kind as to give me several different blog awards. I do appreciate receiving such awards, however, sometimes it's hard for me to even get time to write. Also, it's hard to find time to 'tag' or select others to participate as there are so many awesome blogs out there that I don't even get to read! So please don't be angry that I haven't participated. Please know that I do value those awards and I appreciate your understanding. With that I better scoot..my hubs is bringing my grandson over from daycare for some quality time.

website goodies

2008-08-02T13:03:00.001-07:00

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-08-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full force here at the Stevens household. I have been trying to update my website with alot of fall and Christmas designs while it's slow.

Between that, I have been making homemade laundry detergent. If you haven't made any, or tried it, you are missing out! It cleans so much better than storebought and costs so little. It makes everything very soft too. Here's a big ole batch I made the other day. I tripled the recipe so I don't have to make it so often. I store mine in plastic Hawaiian Punch bottles that we go through like water. They hold 1 gallon. In this particular batch I used Zote soap, that's why it's a pretty pink. However, I used Ivory Soap last time and I think I'll stick w/the Ivory. Just personal preference.

How's your pocketbook holding up in all this crazieness with gas prices, food increases, etc etc etc..Alot of folks are losing their homes here in California. Thank goodness we are not one of them. We have alot of taxes on everything here and our gas tax is crazy. However, hubs said that the price is going down. Duh yeah, when people aren't purchasing it. I heard on the news that the gasoline companies made another HUGE profit. I can't believe those jerks actually have the gall to broadcast what profits they are making, all the while taking from the middle class and poor. It's a crime!!

Okay, I'm off my soapbox about that. Can't control it, why worry about it.

On another note, wanted to let you all know that Eric is now on a 30 day leave and is back home in Phoenix visiting with my grandson and his parents. He will then report back to his home base in New York, and await arrival of the rest of his unit and be discharged in November. My daughter said his hand looks pretty bad but that's to be expected. Oh by the way..found out he had a staph infection in the bone of his wrist. Don't know how he got it. So thanks for the prayers and expressions of concern. Please remember to keep all the servicemen and women in your prayers.

Sometimes in my "spare" (which is rare) time on the computer, I like to find new blogs that I wouldn't really search for. Back in November of 2007 I found this blog of a Christian Love Story author named Kristy Dykes. She was a beautiful women inside and out. And although I never knew her personally, I kept up with her blog as best I could. She was diagnosed with brain cancer (the kind that Sen. Kennedy has, I believe)around that time.

Her faith in Jesus Christ was nothing more than simply amazing!! She was such a perfect example of what Christ is like!!! If you ever get a chance, check out her blog. Her husband, Milton, is a pastor at their local church, of course, Kristy was a pastor's wife. He is continuing the blog with memories of their life together. It is a perfect love story in itself.Click Here to readI tried to reduce her picture but it wouldn't take. Sorry so big. But isn't she beautiful?

Now for some upbeat, positive stuff..I have been creating alot of new fall designs like I stated above. Plus all the many primitive co-op websites that I'm on have some awesome designs for sale. Be sure to check them out.

To help ya out click on these links PFATT MARKETPLACE; TDIPT MERCANTILE; THE PRIMITIVE GATHERING; HUMBLE ARTS; and SIMPLY PRIMITIVES Some good eye candy for ya on those places. Be sure to check em all out. Also, like I said, I added some great fall/christmas items on my website, here's a few up for adoption, Let me know if you see anything in the slideshow or on my website you can't resist.

One last thing that I want to share w/you is my trip last Saturday to the Quilt Festival in Long Beach, California. We were so happy to finally have a place to come together and be able to purchase some awesome stuff. Course, being a fabriholic, this was a bad place on my pocketbook to say the least, but I tried to contain myself and promised myself that "I WILL USE THIS FABRIC OR KIT". I am determined, and I have to say that I have successfully completed a kit that I purchased about 2 years ago hehe. That's because I received some injections from my pain management doctor and had to take it easy, so I handstitched the woolen pincushions (applique). The design was by Lisa Bongean from Primitive Gatherings which used to be "Backyard Quilts".

WOOO HOOO YOU FOUND IT>>NOW JUST EMAIL ME AND TELL ME THE TITLE OF THE POST IT'S IN to get another entry in the box. GOOD LUCK-- She has so many awesome designs and they are much better looking that on her website. Check out her site. Awesome stuff!! It's okay to Drool hehe

With that I leave you the task of reading this post. Sorry it's so long. I really have to work on disciplining myself more. Maybe tomorrow :-)

Update on Eric's Injury

2008-07-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

Eric is doing much better and we want to thank everyone who prayed. We really appreciate it..PRAISE GOD!! The government flew my grandson, Bryson, and his grandparents (Eric's parents) to Washington DC last week. They stayed for one week with all expenses paid by the military/government. He was able to be released the day after they arrived and spend the week with them.

I have since found out that he will not lose his hand. Thank God..he is an electrician by trade. He will be transferred to his home unit in New York till the rest of his troop come back from Iraq and then he will be discharged. He has chosen to leave the military.

He has served 11+ years and was going to make a career out of it, but my grandson is really wanting him to stay home, so Eric has decided to do that. It will really be nice for Bry, as he hasn't seen his dad very much since he was born.

Please remember to keep praying for all the servicefolks..dependents too! I was there once and know how much I could have used prayers. The military doesn't get paid anything compared to what they should be! They do get benefits but monetary wise they are paid very little for their commitment.

If you see a military person ..thank them for there service. They deserve AT LEAST that!

Time Flys

2008-07-12T12:59:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I can't believe it's been so long since I've written. Shame on me. I'll try to keep up better.

It's great weather here in Southern California! The monsoons coming from the east cooled us down at least 20 degrees. It's nice as long as the sun doesn't shine and bring out the humidity more. We're loving it while it's here.

I've been really busy designing to supply all the different sites I'm a part of. I've also listed some fall, Christmas, and winter items on my site, so check it out.

Time sure does get away from me. It seems winter, Christmas, and the holiday seasons were just here. It's going to be slim pickins around here at Christmas time. I'm sure it will be that way everywhere with the current ecomony etc the way it is.

Our 4th of July was nice. The fireworks here were the best I've seen yet and it was our grandson's (Jayden's) first year of really understanding and being able to comment on them. What a delight he is. Thank God for grandchildren! They keep us young.

Well I better get back to work. Wishing you ice cream with your cake!

THANK A SOLDIER

2008-06-29T16:11:00.000-07:00

I grabbed this off of Cookie'sblog.This is a wonderful tribute to America's heros,"The Gratitude Campaign" that needs to be spread and shared with as many Americans as possible! We can never repay or show enough appreciation for these men and women.

Also I would like to ask everyone to pray for my grandson's father. His name is Eric Brown and he's been in the Army for about 8 years now or more, most recently on his second tour of duty in Iraq.

He developed something in his left hand that caused it to hurt. He had several surgeries there in Iraq for it. Most recently, he was to go back to the line when he decided to see the medic before returning, since it was still hurting. They immediately admitted him and he was told he would be having more surgery.

When he awakened he found himself in Germany having surgery to which they transferred him to Walter Reed in Washington DC. They are not sure what has happened but his hand is severly swollen and they have drainage tubes in it now. Perhaps something that the Iraq used to fight the soldiers or else a bug bite or whatever.

I would love for him to be showered with the prayers of everyone who reads this. I know the Lord is the ultimate healer. Please keep Eric in your daily prayers for me and Bryson, my 11 year old grandson who is very worried about his father. We'd appreciate it :-)

Summer Sale at Mustard Seed Originals

2008-06-23T18:49:00.001-07:00

Just thought I would share with you that I am having a Summer sale on my website ONLY to get ready to add new designs. Out with the old, in with the new. I am offering 25% off anything on my website from now till Thursday, June 26th. All you have to do is click on the order button of the item you'd like. If no one has already ordered that item, then it's yours. It's that easy. I accept Paypal, money orders or checks. Hope you can take advantage of the sale.

Boy are we having a heat wave in Southern California! And worse yet, my a/c isn't working. Hoping to get it fixed soon.

Have you checked out Witch Twilight and Henry? If not then you're in for a good treat. Until later..stay safe :-)

Ready for Halloween?

2008-06-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

It seems these seasons just fly by anymore. Why even put away the decorations? We'll need them in what seems like a month. Sometimes it hard to keep up with it all.

Well to join the crowd, I've just listed an adorably ugly witch, Witch Twilight and her friend, Henry the mouse/rat, whatever you call them. Twilight is like me, just not ready for Halloween already. Isn't she cute as can be? Well then rush right over to my ebay, read all about her and bid. You won't be sorry you did!
She's got lots of cuzzins and sistas and such that are coming to visit.So stay tuned!

Next month on PFATT Marketplace we are having our Holly Jolly July..which means we are celebrating Christmas in July!! Isn't that great? Gives you plenty of time to start shopping and finish early. If you spread it out it's not so bad. There will also be door prizes, so make sure that you visit in July. No purchase necessary.

And Next month on TDIPT we are celebrating Christmas as well!! Hearing jingle bells all the way this month. Don't forget to view the new designs offered on July 1st~
So I've been busier than a bee, trying to keep up with the seasons and all my going ons.
Lemme hear whatcha think about Witch Twilight and Henry, will ya?

Happy Friday the 13th!

2008-06-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I spent the weekend in San Diego, just the two of us. It was Friday, June 13th, 1980 that we had our first date, so whenever a Friday the 13th rolls around we celebrate, but this one was a biggie, because it actually fell in June!

Nice relaxing weekend, no cooking (YAYY!) or planning to cook (that's the worse part). What was really the highlight for me, besides having my hubby's full attention, was a trip to The Country Loft. OMG!! It is to die for! My first visit there and I can't wait to go back!

What is The Country Loft..well it's a quilt shop loaded with primitives!! Cheri Payne (aka Cheri Saffiote Payne) has her patterns for sale there with displays! I LOVE her stuff!! Purchased way too much fabric and patterns and can't wait to get busy designing!! It is filled to the brim and ceiling with primitive works of art. I spent several hours in there. Luckily I have the best, most patient hubby in the world as he doesn't mind waiting in the car taking a snooze or working on his laptop. What a lucky gal I am, huh? NOPE he's not for sale or rent!!!

We ate at a fantastic Bar-B-Q restaurant called, Phil's Bar-B-Q. Ymmmy ribs were fabo so was the rest of it. Yumm

San Diego is only a little less than 200 miles from home, but a great getaway! We promised each other that we would getaway more often.

Now tomorrow I will be going through my treasures and starting on more Halloween/Fall designs! Don't be surprised if you see me starting some Christmas designs too! Seems it was just here tho huh?

I have new designs as of today on The Primitive Gathering Lonely Sara Jane is still available, but my other designs sold fast.
Also, be sure to check out my website Mustard Seed Originals for more great designs. I will be adding lots more in a few days.

It seems Summer has arrived. We have our pool all set to swim. I usually take a few hours a day to jump in when it's really scorching and do some exercises.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hopefully on the Mend

2008-06-05T17:21:00.001-07:00

I've been gone a long time since my last post. I caught several kind of bacterial viruses from somewhere and have been very ill to the point of wondering if I would be meeting my maker soon. Scareeeyy situation.
So on the third round of strong antibiotics, I'm praying that these and some rest will bring me back to normal. I feel like I had major surgery as I can hardly catch my breath just walking a short distance. Thank goodness for good doctors. I found a good one this time. I could use a few prayers still as I continue to mend. Thanks!

Needless to say, I have been away from my sewing department and not have any creative interest at all in several weeks. Trying to keep up with my commitments on websites has been a challenge.

It's gotten really warm here in Southern California and I believe summer is on it's way soon. Don't know about all you folks out there but this gas pricing has gotten so out of hand. It is currently $4.28 a gallon for regular unleaded here which is robbery!!! Food is a whole other story. What a mess this country is in. When will it all get better, will it even get better?

I continue to have an ad in Country Sampler of my websiteMUSTARD SEED ORIGINALS. Check it out when you get a chance. Thanks for stopping by. Till later, take care and stay healthy!

Time for Updates

2008-05-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Lots of new designs for purchase on several co-op sites. Check out Simply Primitives; TDIPT Mercantile and The Humble Arts. Humble Arts is having some trouble getting the new May designs so when you check be sure to refresh your browser to see the new designs. However, there are several still available from that site.

I want you to know that I DO appreciate all the loyal customers that have purchased from me over the years. If you'd like to be on my mailing list, just let me know.

Long Time Away

2008-04-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been a long time since I've written, but you know how it is, life gets in the way. Don't you hate it when you get sick at the worse time? I mean there's never a "good" time; and never a time when we want to get sick, just sometimes are more convenient then others.

I caught that nasty flu several weeks ago..the one with the excruiating headache~migraine style. Ouuee have never had my head feel like that in my life! Had to make a trip to the nearest urgent care to get a shot at 2:30 am. No fun! Then after two rounds of taking strong antibiotics, I think it's finally on it's way out.
Worse yet, it made it's round through all our family. Thank goodness I don't have any little ones. It was hard enough taking care of myself.

Time for updates on most of my co-op sites. I've been working like a mad women trying to get new designs to list. Plus I have several swaps I owe along with orders. I yi yi, too much work! But I LOVE WHAT I DO so that makes it okay.

I think it's time to have another giveaway..stay tuned for what it'll be and when. You won't want to miss. Meanwhile, check out my website for some great designs. It's about time to start on fall already!

Plus I will be listing items on Etsy too. I was working on needlefelting little characters and such, while I was sick. Lemme know what you think. I'll letcha know when I have them up for sale.

Till then, I'll be sewing....

A SAD DAY IN TDIPT

2008-04-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a sad day for us TDIPT gals. One of our own, only 46 years young, Sue Zalik, had a heart attack and died. She was one of the sisters from 2stitchin. Lynn and Sue have been designing and stitching up samplers for years.
Sue was very proud of her children, a 26 year old daughter who attends college and a 12 year old son who she was always escorting to participate in sports. She was a family woman, married to her husband for 24 years. This is indeed a sad time. We will miss you Sue, but we promise to take good care of Lynn like you would want us to do. RIP Sue
Makes you really think of your own mortality when it hits so close to home. I've had several friends pass the last 2 years, several friends and friends' children. I hug my children a little longer and tell them I love them whenever I can. We never know when our name will be called.
Be sure to show the ones you love how much you love them each and every day. It might be your time next.

Some great blogs to share

2008-03-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

I've been awarded the "You Make My Day" Award by Denise White..fromThe Cats Pyjamas & 2 Friends Design
1. Flea Market Studio...some great eye candy there;

2.Beardeaux Bears & Friends (Linda Johnson)..she makes some really great designs!

3.Sampler Post aka Anniebeez ...she's going a different route, but still love her dollies~

Also..I've been tagged by Kelle at 2 Dancing Crows to "Tell How I got my Name"...

K, yes, you guessed it. From the Bible. What better way to start a business than with the Lord in charge? He has blessed me so much in my 16 years of business. There you have it..I tag:

1.Suzanne from Pear Tree Primitives;

2.Lorraine from Pie Cake Primitives and

3.Annie from Iblur or Alleghany Annie

Whew Glad that's done.

That's all for today...I'll come back tomorrow and post some more. Promise to show you what great finds I got at the thrift shop today. Haven't been there in a lonnng time. Till then..keep stitchin

I've been Tagged

2008-03-02T20:32:00.001-08:00

Em from Blonde & Blithe has tagged me to:
Here are the Rules:

1. Link to the person that tagged you.

2. Post the rules on your blog.

3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.

4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs.

5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

1)I hate dirty countertops; 2)I hate walking on a sticky floor;3)I have to constantly have something else to do while watching TV;4)Have to have mustard and onion on my burger; (5)I have a bad habit of picking at my cuticles; (6)When I'm nervous I play with my hair (twist it).
K, now I have to tag 6 more people, gosh who do I pick..
Let's see...how about
1)Patty from Dog Patch Primitives
2)Nancy from Nancy Malay's Collectibles
3)Carol from The Primitive Lady
4)Angie from Love the Prim Look
5)Pea from Peapickers Primitives and
6)Pam from Soft in the Head

Hopefully we can all learn something about these special bloggers. Check out their blogs if you're not familiar with them. All are great designers of the prim world.

Another Hump Day

2008-02-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

Couple more days till March. Got lots happening in March on my website. I will be uploading a bunch of new dollies, bunnies etc in the next couple of days so keep an eye open.
Don't forget about our 1 year anniversary giveaway on TDIPT Mercantile. All you have to do is post a comment on our blog HEREto be eligible to win a prize, and there are some GREAT prizes you won't want to miss.
This month I have also joined Simply Primitives and have 4 new designs up for sale. They will be available on March 1st.
I might even list some things on Etsy and Ebay.
The days are getting longer and warmer. I love it! Spring and Fall are my favorite seasons of the year.
Here's a sneak of one of my special dollies added to my website for adoption. Be sure to check it out, till next time..I'll be sewing

Lots of Exciting News for March!!!

2008-02-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

Lots of great things happening at TDIPT next month that I have to shout out about. Hey, that rhythms! It is our 1 year anniversary as a co-op selling group! Thanks to all our loyal customers, You made it happen. So we only saw fitting to give back to our customers! With that in mind we are going to be having a HUGE GIVEAWAY with fantastic designs to special people. That's FREE primitives from top notch designers FOLKS! DON'T MISS OUT!!! My free giveaway is that picture at the top of a 30" wide spring swag. It reads "Spring Has Sprung". You have to go to the TDIPT Mercantile on the 1st to find out the details of how to enter and win! Be sure to check out the newest designs on March 1st.
On another note..Just in case you've all been wondering where I've been. Well, time got away from me this month. I had some surgery and then developed a sinus infection which seems to be going away, I hope. I'm healing nicely and you'll be hearing more from me now on a regular basis.
I added alot of new blogging friends to visit this past month. Be sure to check em all out.
It's almost planting time here in Southern California. We have been having rain, YES, rain! I'm really hoping to get a mini garden going this year with some homegrown tomatoes if nothing else. Also some pretty flowers. I'll probably choose to do the above ground plots since our ground/sand is like hard clay/rock.
Took a trip to my local scrapbooking store today. I love that place! I just keep collecting all these supplies but do nothing with them. Am I the only one who does this insane thing? I am determined to take a class. I love those mini scrapbooks they make with chipboard!
Then there's the quilting I wanna do! Just too many irons in the fire here. I need some organizational skills. Send me some if you have any.
Here's some tips for primitive designing if you need any:
Cut off pieces of thread to attach your primitively already stained dollies, and coffee stain them and then wrap them around an empty spool so when you have to touch up something the thread will already match the body!

Hate it when your sewing machine runs out of bobbin thread? Dang, that always happens when you're on a roll huh? I suggest purchasing the "Sidewinder" bobbin threader!! OMG!! You will think you've gone to heaven!! It's well worth the $30! check it out here.I have had one for a few months now and I'm hooked! Reason I suggest there is because I just purchased one for my daughter and they sell it cheaper than most and their shipping is lower. TRUST ME!! THIS WILL BE THE BEST $30 YOU'LL DROP! Well worth it!

That's all the tips I have for now, but don't worry, I'll be back ;-)

Annnnndddd theee Winnnersss Areee.....

2008-02-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

Roll out the red carpet! It's time to announce the winners of my 1st Blog Giveaway. There were alot of entries, but I heard that one of the blogs had like 721 entries and she closed it. That's alot of entrys!

I summoned my 21 month old grandson, Jayden, to pick the winners. I made the mistake of writing the names on lil post-its with the sticky stuff. What a mess.When he grabbed one several came with it. He wasn't too cooperative. Finally I was able to get him to give me just one. That winner was "Windy Cindy". The second winner is Debbie from 2 crows. Congratulations to both winners! Each won a $25.00 gift certificate for my website at MUSTARD SEED ORIGNALS

It's been really cold outside here in Southern California. The coldest January since 1979! The nights have gotten down to 20 degrees at night! brrr that's cold! Plus with our natural gas prices so high it hits the pocketbook bad.

I've met alot of new bloggers through this giveaway. Watch for more great giveaways or contests in the future! Hope the groundhog didn't see his shadow where you live. I'm ready for Spring.

Thanks for stopping by, come back again soon :-)

Bloggy Giveaway Carnival~Jump on Board!!

2008-01-28T14:02:00.000-08:00

Do ya like giveaways? freebies?? OMG have you hit the jackbox!! You've got to visit "Bloggy Giveway Carnival" It's awesome!! Check it out. You don't have to have a blog to enter, anyone is eligible and there are some GREAT Prizes on there for FREE!

AND for you bloggers out there who need/want/thrive on visitors..this is the exposure for you! Don't let it pass you by.Get involved in the giveaway and driver more people to your blog! It's easy and fun.

Now My freebie giveaway is a gift certificate for $25.00 to 2 persons for anything on my website at Mustard Seed Originals THAT'S $25 FREE CASH BABY!!! Enter!!Hurry before it's too late! All you have to do is leave me a comment. Then in 1 week I'll draw the names of the winners and notify you. Be sure to leave me an email address or URL of your website or blog to be able to contact you. I will post the winners here.Get started!Good luck!

Living with Fibromyalgia?

2008-01-27T13:10:00.000-08:00

First of all I've been tagged to tell 5 things about myself from Flora from Bone Head Studios You gotta go check out her blog and then her designs!! Awesome! That girl can create!!

1)I reside in Southern California with my husband, daughter, and grandson.

2)I have 5 children (4 girls 1 boy) 35,30,28,23,20, and 11 grandchildren!

3)I am the designer behind Mustard Seed Originals

3)I was born and raised in Allentown, PA, where my father and several siblings reside.

4)I spent summers when I was little with my grandparents in Bridgeport/Clarksburg, West Virginia

5)I enjoy designing, sewing, any kind of stitchery/embroidery, and I love learning new techniques. Okay, there you have some info about me. Not much that you didn't know right?

K, now I'm supposed to tag 5 people. I tag:

Jan Coffey from Coffey House CollectiblesThis girl can paint! Check out her blog and website!

Steph from Sunshine and Ravioli This girl is awesome!! Don'tcha just love that name of her business!!

Wish Upon a PrimThis gal is new to me, so I'm eager to learn about her.

Tattered and Torn..now there's an interesting name. Check out that blog!

and lastly, is Terri from Prim Creek..be sure to check out her awesome sewing machine cover and she even has a tutorial for a coffee filter book.That's it for the tagging.I appreciate all the comments from everyone. If you're reading, don't be shy, leave a comment or two.

Now that we got the business out of the way, thought I'd drop a few lines letting you know how life's been treating me lately. First off, any Fibromyalgia gals out there? I hope there's not too many. Well I'd be raising my hand here. If you're fortunate enough to not be hit with this, then consider yourself lucky. Some folks have chosen to try "Lyrica", a nerve medication that they say helps with fibro. I take some off and on, only when it's unbearable. Massage helps, I go once a week for an hour of deep tissue massage. Gritting my teeth sometimes but it helps alot. I'm fortunate enough to have the funds to do this. I have seen some commercials on TV asking for patients with fibro for another study for medication. YAHOO I hope it's better than this Lyrica. It works but one of the big side effects for me is that ole WEIGHT GAIN! Like it isn't bad enough that you gain weight with this problem cuz you can't really exercise without paying big time for it!

Let me tell yall what I have been doing to treat myself. I don't know about you, but all my life, except when I was pregnant, I never took vitamins. Well I have changed that. I found an AWESOME Chiro/Nutritionist, Dr. Roger Murphree, online that has developed a vitamin regimne for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatique Syndrome patients. I have to say, I have been taking them for about 3 months and they really help me! Visit the site and let me know whatcha think. The line is called "Essential Therapeutic Supplements". Since receiving my first shipment, I have added several other products from that line with much success.Folks with fibromyalgia know that stress really aggravates it. Course stress makes everything worse right? Weather is another factor and lately it has been raining like crazy here for the past week. We really need rain, so I'm enjoying it. Good sleeping weather too.

Well that's it for today. Don't forget to sign up for Nancy's easter giveaway. It's gonna be awesome! Till later..I'll be stitchin..

Easter Giveaway!!

2008-01-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

You've all got to rush over to Nancy Malay's Easter Basket Giveaway and post a comment to her to be entered in the drawing! She does lovely vintage designs that you'll love! I'll post more later regarding my life. Hurry!!!

Calgon Take Me Away!

2008-01-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I LOVE BUBBLEBATHS!! Ouu the nice warm water, my head resting on a pillow with a good magazine read..now that's MY ending to a hectic day.

I have been taking a bunch of those lately. My year started out with a major headache! Nothing worse then finding out that, for the best of your business, it's best that you move your website to another server.

Now, I'm pretty much a computer dummy. I'll admit it! Raisin my hand here. But I gave it a good shot..actually I worked on the darn thing for 3 days solid and was determined to kill the beast...finally at the end of the 3rd day I realized that I could have been making 3 times what it would cost me to hire someone, so guess what I did...yep! I left it to the experts. Well I have to say tho that I am proud of myself as I did get some of it correct. Anyways it's up and running with the help of Lisa Las Vegas and Denise White..'2 friends' their called. If you need computer help..they are definitely the ones to get! So make sure you all go over to my website and check out the new look! This program that I'm with now is so much better than the other. So many more options. The only problem I have now is I have to add all my products now. So bear with me while I do this in the next couple of days.

I'm sure I'll be enjoying my trips away with Calgon.

Five Random Facts

2007-12-22T13:17:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Cindy from Touch of Sunshine to list 5 random facts about myself.
So here goes:

1. I love being called "gramma, grams or grammy" from any of my 11 grandchildren;

2. I would love to live where there's four seasons;

3. Meeting new friends makes my heart sing;

4. I take 1 hour bubble baths yearround..nothing like sitting in a tub of bubbles with a good magazine. Great destressor

5. I would love to live in the mountains.

I have to tag five fellow bloggers:

Anniebeez Dolls

Christine Crocker

Turkey Ridge Primitives

Two Dancing Crows

Crabby Gabby

I've chosen some interesting fellow bloggers. Hopefully they will find time to list the facts.

Ready or Not Here it Comes

2007-12-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas that is, and NO, I'm not ready. Am I ever? Nope. I hate crowds. Last year I did almost all my shopping online. So much better than standing in the lines or traffic. It's not too bad this year tho, as I'm mostly giving money to my grandchildren.

I've decided I might bake a few cookies. Hubby and I already got our presents to each other. That being our new 2004 Chevy Surburban. I LOVE it! It's mainly my car as he has his Cadillac. He tried to talk me into an Escalade but nope, I'm a Chevy gal.

I've made several new year's resolutions. I am really determined to get organized in several parts of my life. I've made a promise to myself to take everything out of my sewing room and clean it top to bottom and rearrange/organize everything. Can't wait to get started! My daughter is very good at organizing and making things fit, so she's helping me. Maybe I'll be able to walk in and out of my room without stumbling over something. Egads!Anyone else have a resolution or two they'd like to share? Post em. I'd love to read them. I also plan to get into some altered art and jewelry. Just love that stuff!

Wish we had some snow..anyone have any they'd like to get rid of? Blow real hard out west to Southern California..I promise to make lots of snowfolks and angels. Till later...I'll be designing

Welcome Again

2007-12-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

I have had to start this whole blogging over because I had the wrong URL and I know alot of folks were getting the wrong address. Thanks for stopping by. I plan to add alot more in the coming days.