Adventures In Mixed Media

The New Old, or The Old New

2012-01-31T11:52:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning found Marty digging out near the barn so we could get the trailer out. Good thing that tractor hasn't sold yet. Apparently we still need it.
We headed out to pick up a used upright freezer. I had a chest freezer for more than 20 years however I had grown very tired of not being able to reach the bottom of it (if you are short, like me, you know exactly what I mean) and was determined to "upgrade" to an upright.

So, a year ago I handed off my old freezer to someone who needed one and figured we would get the replacement as soon as the house sold. Well, we all know that hasn't happened yet and the freezer part of my fridge is not good for much more than a weeks worth of food at a time. Made for some very creative meal prep and that was a fine challenge, for a while.
Well, Kijiji to the rescue, again, and after watching for a while and one false lead, we now have a lovely, fifteen year old upright freezer in immaculate condition. There's not much in it right now, but it wont take long to fill it up.

They really don't make them like this anymore.

More Dog Days

2012-01-29T19:49:00.003-05:00

Gumdrop was built for snow. She likes to bark at you to keep you on track- THROW THAT BALL!!!
If it's not too cold, Odelia loves to play in the snow. Got a ball? You will need a few of them as she will not let go of the one in her mouth.
Should any dog be allowed to have so much fur?!
A most unusual moment when both are sharing the stool and the fuzzy blanket.

I hope you had a good weekend.

Canada's Wonderland in January

2012-01-27T17:45:00.004-05:00

Okay, maybe not "Canada" but our little corner of the province.
Well, here we are almost at the end of January. There are no mountains of snow or super cold temperatures- yet. We've got another snow, er, ice day. Freezing rain all day turning to ice pellets this evening.

My poor trees and shrubs. The yard looks like a battleground.

Ice crystals nestled in the base of a sap bucket.
A good day to do a little baking. These are raspberry-filled heart-shaped scones. They looked a lot more heart-shaped before baking. It's a recipe from an old recipe from Country Living magazine.

Apparently the roads were find but everybody's driveway looks more like a rink. The weather didn't keep away two brave souls who dropped by to explore the chilly Milkhouse and take away a trunk load of chinchilla tubs and sap buckets.

I got to try out my new ice grips for my boots. They work wonderfully. I was tramping about for a couple hours and loved every minute of it. No worry about slipping.

Have a great weekend, Everyone!

Staying Put

2012-01-27T08:46:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was beautiful. Clear, sunny, not too cold. The dogs enjoyed a good run.
Aaron and I loaded the wood box.
This is what we woke up to this morning! My bedroom window was completely covered in ice. No traffic on our country road. The dogs had some challenges navigating the yard this morning. I re-scheduled an appointment that was for today.
It's going to be one of those days. As long as we don't lose power, it will be nice to snuggle in and putter.

Ode To a Dear Friend

2012-01-25T20:46:00.003-05:00

This isn't about a traditional friend but a workhorse that has stood the test of time. Many years ago I worked at Sears. That was when we purchased our first microwave. It was a Kenmore micro-convection oven. We used that machine for twenty years. We wore it out!

When we moved here we left it behind and looked and looked for something similar. Two decades later, we found that they just don't make 'em like they used to. We ended up with something different. Not as nice, or as well built, but it did the job. After almost seven years it gave up the ghost.

BFF Denise to the rescue. She too had the exact same microwave we did. They weren't using it anymore. Did I want it? Goodness, YES!

Well, the old beast is back in service and good as gold. Roomy, easy to clean, no silly round rotating turntable. It's wonderful. I'm looking forward to many more years of use with this helper in the kitchen. Thanks Denise!

Hmmm, now, when this one wears out, there is still my parents' microwave... Same model, not used much.......perhaps it will still be around when I need it. ;)

In the mean time, I truly appreciate what my new, old machine can do!

Christmas Birds

2012-01-24T20:05:00.003-05:00

These are the last ornaments to be put away. Mainly due to the fact that they just arrived. These sparkly little birds have a secret.
Their heads pop off revealing a hollow body to tuck tiny sweet treats inside.
Stay cozy and have a good week.

Yes, More Snow Pictures. I Know..But I'm Canadian And I Can't Help It

2012-01-23T18:20:00.003-05:00

While in Brighton last week, we got a little snow. While I was musing over the delicate flakes falling, my hubby was dealing with white-outs just down highway two in Trenton. Go figure.

I headed out to see how the snowfall delicately dressed the various evergreens in our yard.

Have a great week.

Who Says Doing Dishes Can't Be fun?

2012-01-22T22:06:00.001-05:00

SINK BUBBLE!

Back From Brighton

2012-01-21T09:16:00.002-05:00

Sorry I dropped off the map for a few days. As Marty was back in town for an appointment midweek I decided to keep him company on the return trip and come back here Friday with him. Thankfully Aaron was around to hold down the fort and look after the dogs, etc.

A while back we picked up this cabinet through a Kijiji ad, but I couldn't take any pictures as it went straight to my studio in Brighton. I dates to the late 50s-60s and is right out of the biology department at Carleton University. I got it from the biology professor's daughter. It's made of maple and sports its original pale gray finish.
What I like are the various drawers, perfect for a whole variety of creative goodies. As well, the glass shelves are completely adjustable. I look forward to filling it up.

Are we tired Of The Snow Yet?

2012-01-16T10:32:00.002-05:00

Still icy cold here. The ice-covered trees sparkle against the blue sky.

It was a good dump of the white stuff.
Aaron manning the snow blower, clearing a path for the car.

Take a seat.

Gumdrop brings a lot of snow in with her.

First Winter Storm Of 2012

2012-01-14T13:59:00.005-05:00

We had freezing rain all day Thursday and woke to snow Friday morning. The power went out at 10AM.

The view from my studio window.

This is gumdrop's kind of weather. She isn't bothered at all by the cold temps and just loves it outside. Odelia, not at all.

It snowed into the evening. The power finally came on at 6PM.
The morning after. Some branch damage, but nothing too serious.

Hope you have a good weekend.

A Little Reading

2012-01-14T04:30:00.002-05:00

Christmas time is the beginning of the "Season of Books." I'm really enjoying "ReWork" right now. It's a clear easy read debunking what we have all been led to believe is the way to run a business, be productive and efficient.
Cold, often dark days are perfect for losing yourself in a good read. Have you visited Abebooks.com recently? Great deals to be had there. "Paper Illusions" is full of the most exquisite paper fashions.
If you get tired of reading you could settle in with some audio mysteries or a good movie.

Snow & Ice Shots

2012-01-13T04:30:00.000-05:00

Well, winter hit yesterday. We woke to freezing rain and that changed to snow around lunchtime. With nowhere to go and lots of wood for the stove, we just settled in for a quiet, cozy day. It was beautiful, as long as you were not on the roads.

Odelia's Got A Little Problem

2012-01-12T11:58:00.003-05:00

This charming girl enjoys her breakfast and dinner very much. They are enthusiastically welcomed and consumed. However, there is one thing that will bring her to an abrupt halt during mealtime.
When the dish teeters on the edge of the step, one or two kibbles left, she will not continue. She sits and waits for someone to help her out of her dilemma.

You see, if she takes that last kibble, the bowl will fall on the floor, making a small crashing noise. That totally freaks her out.
All I need to do is slide that silly, noisy bowl back on the step and all is well.

A Little Thrifting Goodness

2012-01-11T07:58:00.003-05:00

I found these before Christmas. They are five inches tall and made of a heavier paper. Don't you just love vintage Dennison products? Whether it's their stationary/office supply products or holiday fare, I get so excited when I come across their stuff.

This assortment came all together tossed in a baggie. I thought for certain that it would all be damaged/imperfect but was thrilled to find that each piece was fine. The little plastic box in the upper left corner takes an odd little battery and lights up. Novel.

Too bad there was only one of these shoe clips. The added 3D pine cone is an interesting, albeit distracting addition. It would move about as you walked.

Winter Wonderful

2012-01-10T08:47:00.003-05:00

Thistles topped with snow. Tiny prickly worlds.
Some of the thistles are taller than me! These remind me of the trees in the Dr. Seuss stories.

THE Perfect Winter Day

2012-01-09T13:11:00.002-05:00

The sun is shining. The dogs are lovin' it outside. Not too cold, not too warm.

A pile of wood waiting to be neatly stacked by the door.

Lots of work but not as much if you had to cut and split it first.

The birds are frequenting the feeders, keeping us company while we work. Every once in a while, you just have to pause and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Have a great week!

Grow your Own Christmas Tree

2012-01-07T19:53:00.005-05:00

I received this fun little kit for Christmas and finally had a chance to try it out.
Everything you need is included, water too.
Pretty basic instructions.
Don't forget your garland.
Add water to the green tray and wait. In a short time your tree begins to grow "foliage."
By the end of the day it was almost full of little crystal covered branches.
Reminds me of those Smithsonian crystal growing kits.

It also resembles this funny little vintage Christmas tree.
Fun.

Letter Whimsy With Theresa McFaydon

2012-01-06T11:13:00.004-05:00

I've signed up for this interesting and fun-looking E-workshop. I thought it would be a great way to try something new for the new year. You don't need much to take part either. I like that.
Check it out, HERE.

First Week Of January - All But Over

2012-01-05T17:23:00.003-05:00

Well, any grand plans for this week have slipped away and been replaced with a little quiet R&R and household catch-up.

This sweet little doll's coat is cozy wool felt and dates to the 1940s.
I just love the embroidery! Hand done in Austria for a company in New York. That was one lucky doll.

A Real Surprise!

2012-01-04T04:56:00.000-05:00

A couple years ago I picked up a funky old frame for a dollar as I liked the print inside and I am a sucker for funky old frames. The picture had slipped so I finally got around to taking it apart to set the "print" straight again. That's when I realised it wasn't a print but an old greeting card. Not just an old greeting card, but an original water colour painting-turned-card. Inside it says "Sincere wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Marjorie H Tozer. The "H" stands for Hughson.

I couldn't find much about her but this painting by her is from here.

Here is a book about the birds of Nova Scotia. Marjorie illustrated it. You can find this here.

What a fun find. You never know what you'll turn up at a yard sale. Have you made any fantastic discoveries while thrifting?

Carefully Wrapped and Saved

2012-01-03T10:55:00.007-05:00

This sweet old toy arrived a while ago, so carefully wrapped for shipping. To my surprise, the head was tucked into an old box and wrapped in old newspaper- the Morning world-Herald, Omaha, Nebraska, Friday April 25, 1941 to be exact. How cool is that?!

This poor thing needed a good scrubbing and had to be reattached to her lovely cloth body.
The box the body was packed in had certainly seen some use over the years.
I'm guessing the current resident of the box was indeed "Andy's mother's doll."
To my extreme surprise and pleasure the opposite end of the box revealed its original purpose. It held a genuine Horsman Art Doll. You almost never see an original box for a toy dating to the 20s or 30s. Back then you didn't save the box and it was merely a way to ship the item inside.
After some scrubbing of the china, some mending to the cloth body and getting her head properly attached, this plaything of the past looks ready for her clothes.
Two days of soaking and rinsing revealed slightly less yellowed cotton. Whoever made these clothes did a good job of it and put a good deal of care and skill into them.
Happily restored and with her own little china dolly, this is once more fit to be displayed and enjoyed.

One hundred Years Ago

2012-01-01T13:57:00.004-05:00

A century ago, the greeting was the same. The hope for the days to come, the same. New year, new beginnings and a fresh start. We don't just turn the page on our old calendar, we need a whole new one! We really aren't so different than those who have gone before. They just had much nicer postcards.

Wishing you all the very best for 2012.

SQUIRREL!

2011-12-31T07:05:00.002-05:00

The dogs love to run and play outside. They are good to stick close by and always, well, almost always, run to the back door when we call "time to go in." The only concern is if they should catch sight of a squirrel or chipmunk on the way to the house. Then, the chase is on.
Squirrel! Over here!!
I just know it went this way......

It's a good thing these dogs cannot climb trees!

In The Days Following Christmas...

2011-12-28T07:12:00.002-05:00

Marty and the guys and I headed into town for a little light shopping on Boxing Day, then home again to continue to relax and enjoy leftovers and the lack of things to do.

Joshua made it back to the other end of the province safely last night and is back on the job today.

Odelia is just chillin', enjoying couch time with her pack. A boy and a fuzzy blanket- what more does a dog need on a cold winter day?

Odelia's Christmas

2011-12-27T08:15:00.004-05:00

I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas. It was a nice relaxing couple of days here and very special to have the boys all here at the same time too.

Odelia is a great hostess. She was very busy all weekend, involved in every detail of preparing for a great weekend. Here she models the fun poster Aaron gave Joshua- two thousand smiles.

She was super excited to have Jacob around and was especially thrilled when Jacob's friend came by to play too. Jacob gives the best ear massages!

If you wont sit on the couch with her, she will happily come to wherever you are, even though the couch is much more comfortable.

She worked hard herding all the paper into a pile, and then proceeded to tear it into tiny pieces. Good fun really, until someone catches you eating those pieces!

They usually get a little treat at Christmas so I thought it was good time to have a carrot. Gumdrop took hers to a quiet, private place to savour. Odelia gobbled hers up and promptly threw up on the floor, carrots, paper and her breakfast. After we cleaned up that mess, we resumed our activities. She seemed quite happy too.
Time for football?
Here she and Marty are sharing a moment.

At the end of a long and exciting day, all you can do is pile in and cuddle.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T20:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T07:44:00.002-05:00

We have a little snow covering the ground and it looks, and feels, as though it will stick around for Christmas. Joshua made it home safely for the weekend too. YAY!

Whatever you find yourself doing today, be joyful. Oh, and don't forget to take your dollies for walk.

The Christmas Tree Reinvented

2011-12-23T07:05:00.002-05:00

While in Merrickville at Mrs. McGarrigle's I just loved this sparkly tree in their window. It's made up of Mistletoe leaves instead of the typical evergreen boughs. They had it covered in little red glass birds.
They gave me one bird to go with it. I don't think it needs anything more.
Down the street at the Miller's Country Store Shelley and I both came home with these funky tin trees. All their Christmas stock was 30% off. Nice!
As you all prepare for the wonderful weekend before us, be blessed and find time to just savour the Season.

Christmas in Merrickville

2011-12-22T07:53:00.003-05:00

I was fortunate enough to spend yesterday with dear friend Shelley. The weatherman was calling for freezing rain however we were just south of the nasty stuff so off we went to Merrickville. It indeed rained and the sidewalks got a little slick but we had celebrating to do and shoppes to conquer.

We saved the best for last, Mrs McGarrigles. They have the best assortment of gourmet and artisan foods to choose from. Lots of samples too.
Down the road at the coffee shoppe was this wonderful lady made of cedar boughs. I'm sure she looks especially elegant when the snow decorates her lovely dress.
Windsor's Courtyard is the place to go to be inspired. She has all kinds of beautiful decor ideas for inside and out. I love how birch logs stand out against the greenery.

On the corner, Mirick's Landing has its own window boxes all dressed up. With all the tiny lights about I'm sure main street is magical when the sun goes down.

Thanks for a great day, Shelley!!

A Wee Christmas Project- The Covered Cheese Plate

2011-12-21T07:30:00.003-05:00

It seems I am the last person to take a cheese tray and alter it for display purposes. I've seen such lovely examples all over the blog world. I've also seen a great many covered cheese trays at Goodwill over the years and never picked them up- chastising myself after the fact for not thinking of putting them use myself. Well, not this time!

This one looks as though it has never even been used but is obviously from the '70s as the dome is made of acrylic. No scratches or worn spots. It sat in my pantry for months and I finally got to work on it.

I sanded the base and wooden knob (I removed the knob first). Wiped it clean and added some black paint, let it dry, then a couple different coats of white paint and let them dry. Then a little more sanding and a few sealer coats with a matte spray varnish.
I'm pleased with how it turned out and happy I finally got it done too.
However, there is no diminutive little display inside as I didn't take out all my old Christmas ornaments this year, so I tucked in a few things that have recently arrived in the mail. Everything looks better under glass, or acrylic as the case may be.

Have a great day, Everyone!

The Boys Are Back

2011-12-20T08:23:00.003-05:00

Well, Jacob is home from school, Aaron is here, and we look forward to a visit from Joshua, weather pending this weekend. The dogs know something is up and they are sticking pretty close so as not to miss out on any potential fun.
Odelia is just nuts for Jacob and is always nearby, fuzzy blanket and toy at the ready. You just cannot be too prepared for a bit of ball tossing or tug-of-war.

You know the guys are here because they like to eat mac 'n' cheese for lunch.

Here, Aaron is explaining the finer points of Game of Thrones to Jacob. It's enough to make your head explode!

As for me, I long for a quiet afternoon to just cozy up and read. Maybe I'll get to those special Christmas issues after the holidays.

Vintage Christmas Cards

2011-12-15T22:55:00.002-05:00

When I saw this box, I was curious.
Inside there are thirteen lovely plastic (yup, plastic) relief cards, about the size of a postcard. Some of them with a definite Christmas theme to them. They are dated 1959. Aren't they beautiful? Wonderful detail. Never used, each one is still perfect.
They have little sayings on the back. They'd make great ornaments for the tree or tags for special gifts.

Faux Pho

2011-12-15T07:16:00.003-05:00

A few weeks back Marty and I were I Ottawa and enjoyed dinner at the Pho Thai Noodle Soup Restaurant. We enjoyed the spring rolls, Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) and some stir fry as well as their bubble tea. It was a cold, windy day and the soup really hit the spot. The whole meal was great. I decided to try my hand at making some at home and came up with our own version of Pho.
Without a recipe, I just used what we had on hand: homemade chicken broth, duck egg noodles, chicken and bean sprouts. Here is a link to a Pho Ga (chicken) recipe. Grab your shop sticks and dig in.

Gumdrop Gets Tough

2011-12-14T07:30:00.003-05:00

This post is for Joshua, who having left home to pursue his vocation, misses his dog very much.

This is Gumdrop with her favourite ball. It is the most disgusting, tattered, stringy basketball you will ever see. When left in the yard, warmed by the sun, this ball attracts those little yellow butterflies like flies to honey! Something about dog spit I guess.

She has this ball totally under her control. ;)

Have a great day, Everyone!

Life With Dogs

2011-12-12T07:06:00.004-05:00

I wish I had exciting news or fun pictures of cool artful creations but life is mostly routine right now. The days are full however and the dogs keep reminding us to stop and change gears regularly.
We had a staring contest the other day. They, sitting stock still, waiting for us to come play ball, us standing stock still waiting to see when they would make the first move. This went on for a few minutes. Then we got cold.
Lots of running ensued.
Lots of tug-of-war too.
When it's time to come in, Odelia enjoys her couch time. She is often quite taken by what is going on on the television. Here she is watching a PBS show on service dogs. She loves the show "Nature" too.
When the animals get big on the screen, she often flies at the TV, checking out who has just entered her "territory." Tag wagging and barking away her welcome,....
it's a short-lived moment and hard to capture with the camera. However, this is the third time we have watched this show and I knew what to "plan" for this time.

Hope you have a good week, Everyone.

Farewell To ATC Quarterly

2011-12-08T14:36:00.004-05:00

I received my final issue of ATC quarterly and as usual it was a great read. For six years, twenty-four issues, I have been inspired and challenged. It's sad to see it end but all good things and especially those that are truly a labour of love cannot last forever.
I've been privileged to contribute here and there over the years.

I'm thrilled to have been a subscriber from the beginning and can go back and enjoy every issue again and again. Thanks Ronna for your labour of love and the fine zine!

~back issue are available to anyone who wants to check out ATC Quarterly for themselves. The web site is going to be updated soon.

It's Not Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas Here!

2011-12-06T20:30:00.002-05:00

Well, much as I am appreciating the good driving weather, these temps hovering just above freezing are keeping us in perpetual autumn. Inside the lights sparkle in the evenings and the tree holds the gifts beneath, waiting for when the family will gather to share.
I guess, if you grew up with snow and winter weather during the Christmas season it just doesn't feel the same without it.
Understand, it wont be too long, I think, before we'll be cursing the snow and icy roads, longing for the first signs of spring. In the meantime, there is still a lot of stuff still growing and thriving, like this fungus on a dead tree.

Queen Anne's Skeleton

2011-12-05T10:37:00.003-05:00

In the same way the trees have dropped their leaves, many of our flowers do the same leaving behind the loveliest silhouettes.
The Queen Anne's Lace has shed its pretty white blossoms, leaving behind a rather complex structure.

Have a good week, Everyone!

Saturday Is Here!

2011-12-03T09:39:00.002-05:00

It's a cold, clear day. The sun is shining. Another week is behind us.

Aaron and Odelia.
What will you be working on today?

Odelia is always working away on one bone or another.

A Little Gifty Baking

2011-12-02T12:42:00.002-05:00

The pizza cookie is a great gift for young people, groups and anyone who likes to share. They are large and impressive-looking and really, who doesn't like a glorified chocolate chip cookie? (Okay, besides me.) This year the list has grown to twelve cookies to be made. Halfway there!

The only thing better than a pizza cookie, is a bunch of mini pizza cookies! I thought I would try them out in four inch tart pans with removable bottoms and they turned out great!

Add A Little Sparkle To Your Day

2011-12-01T06:07:00.001-05:00

December is officially here.

Have a great day.

Good Morning!

2011-11-28T06:37:00.000-05:00

Have a good week!

A Warm Sunday Morning In Late November

2011-11-27T08:10:00.000-05:00

Enjoy your day.

Giveaways & Goodies

2011-11-25T07:25:00.004-05:00

Recently, in between my comings and goings, fellow Canadian blogger, Carmi had a giveaway for her Canadian followers and I was the happy winner of this fab Cricut Shapes cartridge. And, I happen to know someone who has a Cricut machine and look forward to trying this out.

Thank you Carmi!!

Miss Sharon came for a visit yesterday and brought along my Smash journal order from Rosa. I just love the feel and quality of these journals. Go here for their fun you tube video.
Had to get a few of the goodies that go with them too, of course!

As I am almost done the Christmas prep, I look forward to getting back into the studio for some fun real soon!

First Snow

2011-11-24T07:38:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to my American friends!

The weather man was predicting freezing rain overnight and then a few centimetres of snow yesterday.

I awoke to a few more centimetres than that!

We even had drifts!
It continued to snow for much of the morning too. By the weekend however, we expect to be up in the double digits again!
Gumdrop was VERY EXCITED about the snow and just loves to romp through it. Must be because she has so much fur! It's amazing how much fur this dog has, truly!
Odelia was happy to run about too. This year she didn't wince at the sight and feel of the cold stuff as she has in the past.

I was happy to be cozy inside working on the Christmas cards.

Keeping It Super Simple~ Christmas 2011

2011-11-21T12:23:00.003-05:00

With life being somewhat out of order for the last eighteen months, the thought of decorating and preparing for Christmas was somewhat overwhelming. Last Friday I thought I would concede to putting up the garlands and the little lights at night are most relaxing and inspiring during the short, dark days of winter. It's a simple task as the hooks remain from year to year and it requires one bin and no thinking to accomplish.

Then I thought, why not use the tree that Joshua got off the side of the road two springs ago? It's tall and narrow and comes with its own lights and is already decorated with snow! As the tree is so very narrow, it fit nicely in the corner, next to the TV, taking up so little floor space.
This morning I remembered some glass ornaments I had picked up years ago and used elsewhere in the house. They add the perfect touch of sparkle to the tree. They had also been stored in a drawer not a bin of Christmas stuff so they were very easy to retrieve.
Over the weekend I got the gifts wrapped and tucked beneath the tree. You can do that when your children don't live at home. I like to wrap everything in the same paper as it makes things look nice and cohesive. I stopped using ribbon and bows a long time ago. They just get tossed anyway. No tags either, just a sharpie marker on the bottom with the recipients name.

Again, keepin' it simple.
I wrapped the railing with garland and lights too. There were a couple other small things I pulled out as well and I'll post them later.

Now, to the cards, and a little baking. This might be the most relaxing Christmas ever!

Warm November Days

2011-11-19T12:41:00.004-05:00

It sure doesn't feel like winter is on its way. This week has been more warm and sunny. We are most thankful indeed!
Marty and Aaron put the old tractor to work and hauled a bunch of odd items to the road in hopes that someone else might happen along and find them useful. As late as eight o'clock last night, when I took the dogs out, I could see someone out at the end of the driveway, flashlight in hand, going through stuff! I haven't looked yet today, but hopefully its all gone.
Here, the dogs sit patiently waiting for someone to throw the ball. As far as they are concerned, the only reason to be outside is to PLAY! Someone came and purchased Marty's Cub Cadet lawn tractor/snow blower too. We sure wont need such a large machine at the other house! Now we just need a buyer for Marty's tractor, oh, and yes, the house too.

Hope you are enjoying a lovely weekend, Everyone.

Critters At The Kitchen Window

2011-11-17T11:54:00.002-05:00

At the new house, there are two very old windows on the east wall (my pictures aren't very good as there is plastic on those windows right now). Besides enjoying the bright morning sun apparently we get little visitors there too. outside are two very large Yew trees and they are currently full of bright Yew berries. The chipmunks and squirrels love them.
This squirrel in particular isn't bothered at all by me presence. I'm sure the lady who lived there before enjoyed their antics. under the window in front of the sink is a little trough that would hold see or water or something and it seems to get a lot of traffic. More fun than television.

House Work In Brighton

2011-11-16T06:38:00.003-05:00

Before Denise headed home last Friday she helped me get the curtains we had been working hung in their new spaces. The dining room curtains look very much at home.
In the living room, the curtains are up and just waiting for some tiebacks to create a softer look in the space. Please notice the lovely wood floor. Marty and Jacob spent a long weekend a while back, removing the pink carpet and refinishing the original floors. They look wonderful!

We completed the job of stripping the wallpaper off the kitchen walls I had begun the week before. Underneath was the original mint green paint. Funny thing was, we had picked up a magazine on "Classic Kitchen Design" at Home Depot and inside they showed a typical 1930s kitchen reno, and there was our mint green paint colour in all its glory. As lovely as it is we are painting the walls white this time.

We spent two days stripping the wallpaper in my studio room. It was put on with paste a very long time ago. And painted over too!

On the first wall you can see where they had numbered the wall to coordinate with the strips of paper.
Isn't wet paper fun? Marty had a good system down for removing everything in full sheets. After the paper was gone, the walls were wet again and the leftover paste was scraped off then the walls were washed.

The "bumped out" closet which we knew had been added after the house had been built provided us with a surprise. Extra wallpaper and no plaster beneath, nor drywall as this reno predated drywall. They used Masonite-cheaper than getting someone in the do a professional plaster job. They did a fab job too. Everything is trimmed out like the rest of the house and with paint it looks like the rest of the room. Dontcha just love older houses?! Before my week ended, Marty got the first coat of paint on the walls in there. It looks great. No picture yet. When it is truly finished I will get one.

Presqu'ile Park Boardwalk & Its Horse Trees

2011-11-15T09:03:00.004-05:00

On our way out of the park we noticed a sign for their boardwalk through the marsh so we pulled in and had a look around. There were a number of people there, enjoying the fantastic weather.

It's a well laid out walk and there are signs explaining things along the way.

Toward the end of your walk, there are a couple places where you find yourself in the woods, then out again and in again. This tree with funky bark caught my eye.

Then we came across a number of truly unique looking trees. Click to enlarge the pic above to read more about them.

This tree has certainly provided respite for a great number of wanderers. It's all but worn smooth.

Marty tries out a restful spot.

Presqu'ile Park, Brighton

2011-11-14T07:38:00.003-05:00

Saturday morning Marty and I headed out to Presqu'ile Park to check out their much advertised Christmas sale. It was a beautiful day.
There was spot along the road in where I had Marty pull over so I could get out and check out Lake Ontario. The shore was covered with smooth rocks, tiny shells and feathers.
You could look out and see no land.

Beautiful.

A Week In Brighton

2011-11-13T07:45:00.003-05:00

As my good friend Denise was heading home last Friday and for her, that meant driving past Brighton on the way, I took the opportunity to tag along. She got to see our other house and had a little company on the way. Marty had the week off so it was a chance to get some more work done. Each day we would go for a walk and check out the little village that is to eventually become our home. Today, I present the End of the Thread Cafe Market Place.
It's a place to explore, eat and shop! What more could you want in one place? We got permission to take some pics and although I could fill a blog with what's inside I chose some great storage pieces that would dress up any studio!
A stand of mail boxes.
A stripped metal medical cabinet. Love those legs!
Look at all those lovely drawers.

I mentioned the food, right? You can meet friends, shop and eat lunch here or take it out, whatever suits you. Lots of tasty treats to choose from.

The seating is nestled in with the great pieces for sale. It's not just antiques, but also fun and funky gift items too. LOTS to look at. Well worth the visit. Friendly service too.

We shared a snack here. Love those red lockers on the right!

More Clouds

2011-11-10T05:41:00.001-05:00

Indulge me, please. I could create a whole new blog of just cloud shots.

This view behind the barn, just before sunset.
They are endlessly variable and always inspiring.

Here, on the 416 heading to Ottawa, in September.

Look Up!

2011-11-08T05:31:00.000-05:00

What do you see?

Burning Bush

2011-11-07T05:23:00.000-05:00

Dear friend Sue gave me this when we first moved here, years ago.
The grayer the day, the brighter it looks.

Milkweed

2011-11-05T05:21:00.000-05:00

I love how pretty this stuff is, floating about. Tiny ballerinas dancing on the wind.

Curtains!

2011-11-04T04:44:00.004-05:00

Yesterday turned out to be cold, wet and gray. Perfect for working inside. Denise and I attacked a pair of huge, unwieldy curtain panels (each twenty-five feet long) I found a Goodwill (where else?) a while back. They must have graced two huge windows in a hall or other grand space. They are fully lined too. All I needed to do was cut them down to make some very nice curtains for the dining room. Two pairs of hands are much better than one. By the days end I had four "new" panels to put up in my other dining room! I also finished with the panels for the living room. I just need to find some vintage-looking/affordable tiebacks for them.

I'll get to see these in action later this morning as I am hitching a ride to the other house with Denise on her way home.

Have a great weekend, Everyone.

When Your Girlfriend Comes To Visit

2011-11-03T06:29:00.003-05:00

Denise arrived in time for dinner on Sunday. Odelia was very happy to curl up for couch time with her. Actually Odelia will curl up with anyone who is willing to suffer the "fuzzy" blanket and her moist kisses. Couch time is almost as fun as running.
We have been blessed with some fabulous weather all week long. Monday was cold but it's just gotten warmer every day since.
Monday we spent poking about Brockville. The usual haunts- Winners, Goodwill, the Sally Ann, etc.

Tuesday was spent exploring Merrickville and having lunch at Gad's Hill. This time it was just soup. I had the mulligatawny soup and she went for the French onion. Warm and filling.

On our way home we hit Goodwill again and I was able to pick up some great Christmas gifts. Almost done the Christmas shopping already!
Wednesday we actually got out to the Milkhouse and I did some organising, photo-taking for stuff to list for sale and we even packed four boxes. It was a glorious day. You could hardly tell it was November!

The dogs had a good run too.

A Surprise Trip To Brighton

2011-10-30T06:03:00.005-05:00

When Marlene said she was heading to Brighton on Thursday I went along for the ride. I haven't been to the other house for a while so it was time to visit.

There was still a lot of colour on the trees. This is a lovely maple which is unfortunately too close to the house. However, for the moment, it makes for a nice picture.
I did the usual cleaning and organising while there. I also began stripping the wallpaper off the kitchen walls. Although there is much to do in the kitchen, renovation-wise, I decided it would be nice to have my curtains up. I cut these down from two vintage bark cloth panels. All you can see outside the window is the huge spruce so privacy isn't an issue. I love the eastern light in the morning too.
Marty has painted the living room, guest room and dining room as well as one of the bathrooms. This is the dining room. He also refinished the floors in the guest living, dining rooms and hallway.
Outside the plants and trees are looking wonderful. I forgot to cut some dry hydrangea to bring home.
In a neighbour's yard, a birch tree just glows against its green counterparts.
The yew trees are full of bright red berries.
This hangs out on the back porch.
There is no grass growing under the huge spruce tree and much of the yard is covered in moss so there isn't a lot of grass to cut.
This old school desk was likely used to hold the former owner's laundry basket as the line is right nearby.

Well, I was home again Friday night and today I am looking forward to my annual visit from my BFF from school. A week of girl time. How great is that?

Busy Week

2011-10-27T05:39:00.003-05:00

After all the productivity cleaning out the barn on the weekend, Marty took Monday off to haul a trailer load of scrap metal to the scrap metal place and get cash for it. He was very happy to be rid off all that stuff and we all went out for lunch with some of the proceeds.

Then we had a house viewing on Tuesday and on Wednesday I spent the day out with a friend, poking about Brockville and running errands. It was a good break.

Lots of new listings for stuff on Kijiji and the local Freecycle, too. When your children grow up and you move to a smaller place some things just aren't necessary anymore.

Odelia is waiting for a little more couch time. For all her energy and love to run outside, she just isn't happy without the requisite amount of cuddle time.

I hope you are having a great week!

Rosa & Gabry Road Love

2011-10-24T05:33:00.003-05:00

Well, dear Rosa did it again! She is a wonderful creator with the sewing machine!

This is Marty's Christmas gift to me this year. Early? Maybe. Did he pick it out himself. Of course not but he liked it very much when I showed it to him, after arrived last week, and yes it will be tucked away until the holidays but I just had to share first.

This is her fab "Canvas Wrap Apron." Isn't it adorable and delightful?

Thank you Rosa!!

I love the details. Go here to check out other happy apron-wearers.
The side pocket is perfect for scissors and whatnot, AND you can sit or bend without stabbing yourself in the process. How cool is that?

Rosa is also the creator of Gabry Road where you can list and sell your creative goodness for only twenty dollars a year. It's Canadian! No extra fees! How great is that? As it is new, it is important to get the word out and support the effort.

I've even sold out my silver and gold German glass glitter through Gabry Road. (Not to worry, there are still other colours available.)

I ought to mention that if you do sign up this month- October- you will get a chance to have your twenty dollar fee refunded too! So it would be FREE for a year. Who doesn't like free?

I even had the chance to meet with another Gabry Road vendor this weekend. Jeanette of BritChic Jemz dropped by the shoppe to check out my beads, etc. for her own jewelry creations. It was very nice meeting you Jeanette.

Have a great week, Everyone!

Perfect Autumn Day- For Yard Work

2011-10-23T06:39:00.001-05:00

It started off cool and damp but yesterday turned out to be the perfect day to spend outside. We gathered up the garden bits, then headed to the barn to put them away.
The dogs loved hanging out with us, that is until Odelia decided to visit the neighbours across the road. Here Marty is getting his tractor ready to put away for the winter or whomever comes along to buy it. No need for a tractor in town!

After tucking away all the garden bits we spent the rest of the day going through the stuff in the barn and sorting it- garbage, Freecycle, Sell, and scrap metal. Lots of work, lots done.
The dogs got a ride to the Milkhouse. Gumdrop just sat herself down firmly and enjoyed the ride. Odelia was a little less relaxed about the whole thing.

We finished our day with a cozy fire in the wood stove. our first of the season. I had all but forgotten how lovely and warm wood heat is.

My "Curly Girl" says farewell until next spring. God willing we will greet the next warm season from our home in Brighton.

Good morning!

2011-10-21T05:32:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was one of those typically Canadian days for "weather." I woke to strong wind and rain. Then the sun came out. Then there was more wind and rain. And so it went, all day long.
It was clearing again when Aaron and I headed home after getting our flu shots. This is the bridge to Ogdensburg, NY. I am always intrigued by how it changes in the light or pays against a cloudy sky. On this day however there were no cars behind me so I was able to pull off and take a picture of it.
Once home again, I whipped up some "Mexican Wedding Cakes" as they are called in the Better Homes & gardens Cookies For Kids cookbook. We always called them "snowballs." (Sorry, one shouldn't speak prematurely of the dreaded white stuff.)

Miss Sharon came for a visit which made Odelia and Gumdrop very happy. Me too. She brought along something very special from Miss Rosa. That however deserves a separate post.

Have a great day!

Packing Up The Milkhouse- Officially

2011-10-20T06:21:00.004-05:00

Well, I couldn't put it off forever so I have dived in have begun dismantling the Milkhouse Galley officially.

I'm being careful about keeping "like items" together should I need to find something during this transition.

Thank you to all who visited, shared and supported my little shoppe.

~I am still happy to ship things wherever they need to go.

Apple Season

2011-10-19T09:56:00.003-05:00

I know I have posted about Hall's Apple Market before but as it is indeed apple season, it is important to draw attention to any family run business/farm that brings great produce to the people and makes the experience enjoyable too.

This bright mural greets folks year round.

The pumpkins are out in force, brightening our shortening days.

Halls makes the best apple cider. Sparkling versions too.

Those crates can hold a lot of apples!

What's your favourite autumn recipe/treat?

Golden Moment

2011-10-18T04:36:00.000-05:00

When I came downstairs to put the dogs out this morning, around 7:30AM I found the kitchen filled with a deep golden light. Needless to say, I headed outside, leaving behind two very confused dogs, to check it out. The yard was a combination of dark gray and fiery gold.

The tops of the trees were lit up.

All those yellow maple leaves just glowed.

And then, in just a few minutes it was over. The sun was up, tucked behind the gray clouds. Then I put the dogs out.

Oriole Nest

2011-10-17T05:16:00.002-05:00

From what I can find this appears to be an Oriole nest. Amazing workmanship.
It is wrapped and woven onto little green branches. It will rock gently in the wind but not fall off.
The deep cavity inside secures the eggs/young all snug and cozy.

Hope your week gets off to a good start.

More Autumn Colour

2011-10-14T06:06:00.003-05:00

Can't get enough of the crisp mornings and changing colours.

It's especially nice when the trees are in your own back yard.

Very dark and wet today.

Have a great weekend, Everyone.

Appreciating The Wild Vines

2011-10-13T10:11:00.002-05:00

I have been enjoying this vine creeping along one of the barn doors.
With the fall season upon us it is changing along with the trees around us.

Such a nice deep red.
I am reminded of a free community art course my friend Sue and I took years ago. One of the things we had to draw was this vine. I've always noticed them since.

Rainy today and for the next few days. Nice break to cocoon a little and rest up after the busy long weekend. Another viewing this Saturday, so no big projects right now.

Hope you are having a good week.

Thanksgiving Part 1

2011-10-11T17:20:00.005-05:00

The gang rolled in about one AM Saturday morning. Joshua came home and with him came along Marty's brother and his family of five. We were ten for the weekend. Lots of food and visiting and other activities too. It was sis-in-law's birthday on Monday and her daughters wanted to make cards for her, so off to the studio we went for an afternoon.

Seven year old Nicole chose the stairs for her desk. That way Odelia couldn't get to her.

Nine year old Jeannette knew exactly what she wanted to do for her card.
Then they spied the two crinolines I have hanging in my studio and wanted to try them out.
There was a LOT of spinning going on. No sign of their older brother. He spent his time with my guys.

Odelia was content to let them have their fun without interruption. She stayed out of their way.

Thanksgiving Weekend Part 2

2011-10-11T17:11:00.004-05:00

There was a lot of tug-of-war throughout the weekend. Here Jacob has Gumdrop on one arm and Odelia on the other. There was also a game of croquet outside which Jacob won. The dogs were left indoors for that activity- you can't have them running off with the balls can you? They howled up quite the lamentation inside.

There was also wood cutting and grass mowing, a trip to the market in Brockville and another trip back to Brockville with the kids the next day.
Did I mention there was twirling? Yup, more of it downstairs.
With the kitchen table gone there was plenty of room to put on quite a show.
A little break.
After the big Thanksgiving meal, Odelia climbed up to see what all the fuss was about. No nibbles for her.

A full, wonderful weekend for all.

FROSTY Morning

2011-10-07T05:41:00.002-05:00

Gumdrop, being such a fur-ball is truly invigorated by this cooler weather. A frosty morning is an excuse to go wild!
And frosty it was. Not near the house but just behind the garage, everything was sparkling.

Frost really brings out the detail in things we rarely take the time to look at.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Weekend!

A Little More Vintage Niagara Falls

2011-10-06T04:30:00.001-05:00

If you had visited the mighty Falls many years ago you may have come home with one of these souvenirs. Is it surprising they even sold little ceramic barrels of Niagara water? For good luck, you know. ;)

Perhaps you would have your picture taken in front of a screen with a picture of the Falls on it or purchase a cabinet card of the Falls.
Or, you might have picked up a little Tru-Vue viewer so you could visit again and again, from the comfort of your home.
Can you just feel the mist on your face? I get such a kick out of the great 3D effect of these old viewers. Sometimes, colour just spoils the mystery of good photography.

The earliest item I have seen so far regarding Niagara Falls is a book dating from 1815. You can see it here. Too dear for me! (I was thrilled to be able to take a picture inside the viewer. How cool is that?)

Summery Thanksgiving Weekend & Milkhouse Closing Date

2011-10-05T05:23:00.006-05:00

With all the drizzle and cold over the last week I am thrilled to find that the sunshine and warmer temps have not yet left us completely. Looks like a grand Thanksgiving weekend sits before us!

Lots to do before Joshua returns home along with one of Marty's brothers and his family.

Are you doing anything special for Thanksgiving, fellow Canadian bloggers? We normally head to Perth for the weekend, taking in the Autumn Studio tour and stay at the cottage. This year the Turducken will be on the table and there will be lots of folks to share it with.

Enjoy your day.

~in the photo, only a few chinchilla tubs left at the shoppe. The painted one I did with dear friend Sue, who had a workshop, so many years ago. Milkhouse officially closes October 16.

Farewell To Summer

2011-10-04T05:49:00.003-05:00

Long warm days, leisurely visits with friends, sweet tea and lemonade are behind us.
Even the scarecrow can rest until a new spring brings fresh growth and crops to protect.

The ground is covered with colourful leaves and each morning is crisp while the darkness comes sooner at the end of the day. Time to get out the kettle for cocoa and fill the wood box with wood for the fire.

Can you tell it has been gray, damp and drizzly for the last six days?

A special thank you to new visitors to the Milkhouse Gallery and for recent mail orders too. Much appreciated.

Appreciating the Space Around Me

2011-10-01T05:15:00.003-05:00

Here is a nice sunny shot of the barn.
I like to stand in the barn and feel the sun as it streams through the boards. It's magical.

Enjoy your weekend.

Pretty Weeds & Flowers

2011-09-30T06:14:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was rainy and overcast. Today I woke to rain and the forecast is for more rain all weekend long. The ground can sure use it and perhaps this water will force open my mums.

In the mean time, I thought it a good time to share a little colour.

Left alone, the thistle plants on our property get very tall.
This time of year they are going to seed.
They look so soft but those nasty little burrs will stick to most anything. Gumdrop in particular.
A perfect dandelion before the wind scatters its seeds.
This flower grows near the garage. I'm guessing some animal/bird planted seeds for it in my field. A lovely surprise.

Have a good weekend, Everyone.

Old Friends, New Friends

2011-09-29T14:27:00.003-05:00

It has been another of those weeks when every day there is something happening.

It started with a grand evening out on Monday visiting Miss Sharon. Then there were some new customers to the shoppe, dropping in on their way from New Brunswick to points west, as well as a lovely visit one of my most faithful customers.

I was fortunate to have two days with friends in for lunch and a visit. This impromptu dessert was put together by Aaron and I on the weekend and I have remade it again to share this week. It's so simple and delicious too: a brownie and whipped topping topped with orange sauce.

The brownie came from the instant brownie mix I make and keep int he pantry and the orange sauce is actually left over from the roast chicken I made earlier in the week.

Off to snuggle with Odelia on this drizzly day for a bit.

Victorian Hat Rack, Anyone?

2011-09-28T07:06:00.003-05:00

Goodness! This has been a busy week. Lots of guests, new shoppe friends and old friends too. And I have begun to prep for Thanksgiving in another week and a half. Joshua is returning with one of Marty's brothers and his family. Ten people, seven meals...some logistics required to make that work.

In the mean time I am still listing items to sell on Kijiji that are not easy to ship through Etsy. This lovely Victorian folding hat display is from a long ago, local general store. All folded up above. It is very light.
Opened up here to its full twelve feet. Originally I used it in the Milkhouse with light linens hanging on it. Some hats too.
Your hat, sir.

We're halfway through the week. Hope it's a good day for everyone!

Mail Call

2011-09-27T05:28:00.005-05:00

Okay, this was not all ordered at once and some time has gone by since I began waiting for these items to show up. However, it seems that they all decided to show up together. How can you not like to get a bunch of mail- fun mail! The lovely postal lady even delivered these parcels to the house! Gotta love rural living. So, wanna know what was inside?
In the envelope were these metal stampings salvaged from Victorian postcards. The horse shoes are a good three inches long.
In the vintage candle box were over two hundred Niagara Falls postcards. What to do with so many postcards? How interesting can 200 postcards of one place be? Well,it's amazing how may different takes there can be on one place. And there are only a few duplicates in this pile. My plan is to transfer the images to cotton and make a shower curtain for the new house. Obviously we now have a theme going there. ;) Should be fun.
I found a lovely antique medicine cabinet for two dollars a while back and will fill it with the little bits of antique Niagara Falls souvenirs that I have found over the years.

The large box held a real find. A lovely china head in her original clothing with a fab cloth body with leather arms and boots. Can you see her funky red-striped ticking stockings? She was cheap as her shoulder plate is damaged, however her head is perfect. Her body wonderful, clothes original...

Her crocheted bonnet has old silk tobacco ribbons.

And her hair has a surprise- a molded ribbon through it.

Hope you are having a good week.

A Wee Saturday Yard Sale

2011-09-25T14:12:00.003-05:00

While out Saturday morning we hit one little yard sale on the way to the market. It was small and they were once antique dealers so there was a lot of really neat stuff, expensive though for a yard sale.

I found a tin of chandelier crystals. One of them is the palest of blue.
I was thrilled to find four long potato chip holders. I added the two four foot long ones to the Milkhouse for sale.
The clips can be removed and turned depending on how you hang them up.
This tiny reliquary opens up.
Inside is a wee little Saint Antonius.

A Little Ancient Reading

2011-09-25T05:54:00.003-05:00

I dug these out of a box at the same yard sale we went to a while back. Books are wonderful! They feel good, smell good, and of course you can read them too if you want. Not to mention all the fun creative stuff you can do with them!
The poetry book was a lovely surprise.
It has the most delightful illustrations in it- lots of them!
This is the inscription inside an old- very old, math book. Can you just see what it feels like running your fingers over this page? How the press left its mark with each letter?
I wonder what is was that made these folks keep this book for so very long. It's not like it was "really good read." It's math! (ick.)

Have a lovely day, Everyone.

Autumn Is Officially Here

2011-09-23T06:11:00.003-05:00

Here it is. the first blush of change in the trees in our yard. Autumn has arrived. I love the crisp mornings, the good sleep that comes from days spent outside, the changing colours. All of it!

I only wish it lasted longer before we are plunged into the cold, short days of winter.

Have a lovely weekend Everyone!

Dinner Time

2011-09-22T05:26:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was unseasonably warm for this time of year. You could hear the frogs and toads calling to one another.
Not too many nights are left where you will find these little guys hanging out under the lights catching their supper. They are fun to watch. Flick! And they have caught another tasty morsel.
Inside we too were enjoying our evening meal. This time it was Jalapeno cheddar soup. I had planned something else but we opened the wrong can. Oh, well. This is always tasty. Super easy too: a tin of cream of potato soup, 1.5 cups milk, 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, diced plum tomato, chopped up pickled Jalapeno peppers; heat, melt and blend. Crush corn chips to garnish and add chopped up green onions too. I use the submersible blender to make it all smooth.
Aaron was lamenting that he never got "his" birthday pie this year. Well, in my defense he was away at school at that time. His favourite birthday treat was the frozen President's Choice Key Lime pie. Just reading the ingredients would stop your heart! Very fresh and tasty though and fine for once a year. President's Choice seemed to think their fresh, tasty pie could be improved on and now it tastes awful. So no more Key Lime pie. I made him a post-birthday pie. Lemon meringue. The perfect end to summer.

A Little More Typewriter Love.

2011-09-21T08:24:00.005-05:00

This old beauty once belonged to a local doctor.
It's a real beast.
Isn't it gorgeous? I looked it up on line and Mr. Typewriter refers to the Remington 16 as the last of the great old Remingtons.

It is obviously a business/office typewriter with it's Pounds Sterling key, the Rx key, and the special number keys across the top, "." "1" "10" "100" "1000"

Funky Vintage Kitchen Cabinets!

2011-09-21T07:56:00.003-05:00

At the local yard sale Marty and I visited recently, I found these kitchen cabinets peeking out from behind a bunch of other stuff. I was taken by their salmon colour and the big handles. I asked the woman if they were for sale and how much they might be. She said $20. Wow! You can't even buy boring old shelves for that price. I knew I would have to figure out fast where these would go and be prepared to argue my POV to Marty. Well, he agreed and I think he was rather taken by them too. (He secretly loves the whole vintage/retro/antique thing too.)

They just need a little cleaning and I will paint the base a fresh black and the insides white. At only 18 inches deep they will fit perfectly into the closet in my new studio at the other house. Shelving will go above. The centre unit's door pulls forward and reveals a shelf AND and potato bin. How cool is that? Definitely more interesting that boring old shelves.

I wonder what the whole kitchen looked like all decked out with these.

Filling An Empty Space.

2011-09-20T04:42:00.004-05:00

Sorry this shot is so poor. It is the only one I could find of this angle of the kitchen. You cannot fight with that eastern sun in the morning!

The red wooden cabinet is for sale as there is nowhere for it at the other house. The table and chairs as well as the little glass front buffet have moved on to another home now. The red and white enamel table was something I pulled from Marty's parents' barn when we were first married. I love this table! It has found a new home at the other end already.

That left a very large empty expanse in the kitchen. Rather lop-sided with the island, counters and Hoosier weighing down the rest of the space.
So, after a few days thought, I came up with a vignette using the utility stools I picked up at yard sales this summer. They fill the corner without getting in the way and create a little much-needed balance to the room. Voila!

**Thank you Rosa (don't you just love her aprons?!) for adding me to your "Featured Goodness" on Gabry Road this morning!**

Cool, Misty Autumn Morning

2011-09-19T06:42:00.006-05:00

It was a crazy busy weekend but it ended well and we all made it through. A shout out to the four ladies who came out to the shoppe on Saturday afternoon to look through every package of beads I had. It was so nice to meet you all and I hope you enjoy your treasures!
To the enthusiastic group who came to look at the house, your generous compliments were greatly appreciated!

I was outside early this morning. The cool, crisp air is most invigorating. I notices the mist coming off the field across the road so I grabbed my camera and went for a little walk. It is so lovely out before the rest of the world wakes up.
The tiny wild grapes are prolific this year.
Don't you just love the spalting on this old tree stump? (the black lines in the rotting wood caused by a fungus)
This is the "Bee Tree." Almost daily I pass by this tree and watch the bees busily going about their business. As it was so cool and early I was able to get closer to it.

Okay, I'm short, so I couldn't actually look inside but with arm raised and camera poised I got a couple shots of the entrance.

The crows overhead were making a crazy racket. I expect it may have been over little little mole. Poor thing must have gotten lost and froze on the road last night. You rarely see these little guys as all their work happens underground.

Wishing you all a wonderful week.

Grape Vine Garland

2011-09-18T04:53:00.002-05:00

As the hanging plants on the front porch had expired, I was trying to think of how to keep it looking a little "dressed" for autumn. Naturally and for free. Then I remembered all the wild grape vine growing near the driveway entrance.

So, Aaron and I headed out with a sharp knife in hand to see what we could find. Come winter I will simply add some little white lights to it.
Two loads of vine later and we had a fairly full garland along the railing. Wear old clothes for this project. Those tiny little grapes can sure leave some colourful stains.

Leacock Tours Visits The Milkhouse Gallery

2011-09-17T09:33:00.003-05:00

This is Mary Lou Leacock on the left and her good friend Gabby Morrison. Mary Lou and Gabby dropped by a few weeks go to see if I was open to having her tour group drop by today. Of course. Mary Lou has been organising tours for thirty-nine years. If you take part in ten tours you get a free one. How great is that?!

The buzz from those I chatted with was that Mary Lou puts together great tours!!
Well, this morning at 9:30AM the bus backed into the yard. Good thing we have all this space. There were thirty-nine people taking part! Plus the driver.
I couldn't actually get near the Milkhouse myself.
Folks enjoyed the apple cookies and fresh apple cider from Halls, in Brockville. Marty had some of his furniture in the workshop and the album of his work to share.
I found this old Heinz electric bean pot years ago at a yard sale. I paid fifty dollars for it, which is a huge amount of money for a yard sale find. It has however, more than paid for itself in its usefulness and fun it has provided to all who drop by.
Everyone loved Sue's wonderful quilted "Autumn" runner.
After some good visiting and looking around, they were off to the next stop on their "Mystery Tour" day- meaning those who had signed up for this tour, don't know where they are going. Each stop is a surprise. Lovely folk every one of them. What a nice way to start a busy weekend? Thank you Mary Lou for thinking of us.

On Friday You Hit The Floor Running

2011-09-16T11:16:00.003-05:00

Always lots of little details to tend to when you are expecting visitors. With Aaron's help I am almost ready for the crowd tomorrow. Loving this cooler weather!!

Only FOUR WEEKS left of my little Milkhouse.

I had the raw apple drop cookies well under way (but not baked, sorry) when Wendy dropped by the Milkhouse with her lovely parents.
Then the mail lady dropped off a large box for me. It was from Margo. She had blogged about the above item (she has much better pictures too) and when I saw it I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to do with it. It will be turned into a light fixture for above my sink at the new house.
Oh, sorry, you are wondering what this is? It is an old hardware store broom display rack. You put the broom handle through the loop and the weight of the broom and the curve of the loopy thing hold it in place. Too cool, eh?!

Well, back to work. Have a great weekend. I'll let you know my busy Saturday turns out.

Autumn Decorating

2011-09-15T18:51:00.002-05:00

It started as a quiet week. Only Tuesday was taken with a trip to Alexandria and home via Cornwall. Then stuff started to happen. Life got busier.

I had it well in hand but then, yesterday, while in town, the brakes died on my car. Got towed home, and here I am, stuck. No biggie. Lots to do here for this weekend. We have a bus tour coming to the Milkhouse!! That means cookies and warm cider. It's the least I could do for forty strangers dropping by. Then there are other folk expected to drop by later in the day and then a viewing of the house on Sunday.

Today I woke to cool temps and the sound of geese flying over. You know what that means. We wont speak of here, yet. So, I got Aaron out the door with me to cut the tall corn stalks down and we tucked them around the big tree near the Milkhouse, tied some to the Milkhouse sign by the road,
and tied the rest to the clothesline deck. I tucked in the few spent sunflowers planted by the squirrels.
Then it was over to our pond. The grass gets sooo tall there.
Aaron held onto the cattails and reeds as I cut some, then it was his turn to do some cutting.
We filled the milk cans with the cattails and reeds. Then we set up the tent and set out the little patio table. Tomorrow, I make apple drop cookies, and clean some more.

Lovely Weekend, Crafty Moments

2011-09-12T05:13:00.002-05:00

It was a beautiful weekend. Fab weather, good food, and a little time to relax.
I took all the goodies from Miss Sharon and Rosa and pulled out my trusty Zutter binding machine and assembled a couple little journals. I really like the Zutter. It's a great little workhorse and doesn't take up a lot of room.

(There is a Zutter in the Milkhouse for sale too.)
There are lots of little extras tucked in here and there, ready to filled or altered.
The second journal was a little tricky as I wanted to bind the pages inside a folder. After some fiddling I managed to get it done.
It was a fun and satisfying project. Thank you Sharon & Rosa!

I hope you had a good weekend too.

It's The Weekend! again.

2011-09-10T06:50:00.003-05:00

So, how will you be spending this weekend?

Here, it is beautiful and sunny and fresh/cool out. Perfect for puttering, maybe even a little baking.

Yesterday I met another creative woman, Shannon of Art Freckles, over on Gabry Road. Thank you Shannon for a wonderful visit to the Milkhouse!

~Remember five weeks left of the Milkhouse Gallery, and counting down.

A Wonderful Sunset

2011-09-09T05:49:00.002-05:00

The other night Aaron called me out to see this.
The sky was filled with pink!

Have a lovely weekend, Everyone!

**Milkhouse Gallery Countdown- five weeks to go.**

Six More Weeks For The Milkhouse Gallery

2011-09-02T09:01:00.003-05:00

As September has arrived it is time for me to start thinking about the task of packing up everything in the Milkhouse to prepare for our move to the other house.
As the Milkhouse is not heated, I have to get the job of packing done before it gets really cold.

So, whether you are a local follower, a lurker, or just passing by, do take the time to drop by for some wonderful deals and your last opportunity to enjoy the Milkhouse experience. All the old/antique stuff is half price and the items brought in specifically from special wholesalers will be the same great prices and eventually listed on Etsy and Gabry Road to sell on-line.

Drop me a note or call to make sure I'm in that day.

Six weeks to go.

It's been fun meeting new people and such gifted artists from across Canada. I wish it could continue but with everything in life, things are always changing. Having a brick(stone) & mortar shoppe, setting it up, and finding unique items to add to it has been fun. I don't think a born collector ever really stops collecting so you never know what will turn up on-line for sale. ;)

This post will remain on the top of the blog until the end of Thanksgiving weekend so to read more recent posts just scroll down.

Thank you for all your support and encouragement over the last few years.

More Tiny Treasures

2011-09-01T17:35:00.000-05:00

Above is an assortment of tiny photos not more than an inch each and the tiniest calendar ever, from 1908, and a miniature version of an 1889 Life magazine. Perfect to tuck into the doll cabinet.

I have just said farewell to dear friend Sue who was visiting for a couple days. We hit all the hot spots- Goodwill, the Sally Ann and had Chinese food for lunch yesterday and headed out to the market this morning. It was a lovely visit. Good friends are precious indeed!

I hope you are having a good week, too.

Professional Illustration, Graduation Show

2011-09-01T17:30:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone enjoyed the last long weekend of the summer. We had a good weekend and Marty spent some time stripping the hard drive and reloading it so I had no access to a computer for a few days.

Here, long overdue, are a few pics of Aaron's grad show in Ottawa last Monday evening.
Each student had a display of their work and a portfolio along with business cards to share.

Here is Aaron with some of his friends, Winston, Damian, and Vanessa.

After the group photo of his class.

It was amazing the work each person presented, all good and so incredibly different from each other. Nice evening. Congratulations Aaron!

Self portrait.

There Was A Party

2011-09-01T12:42:00.003-05:00

I woke this morning to an email from Miss Rosa. She was coming to visit, sweet kidlets in tow. Then a message from Miss Sharon, she was coming too. This party was going to be an early one! No need to dress up.

A few moments in the kitchen and voila! Sweet Treats! Brownies, pinwheels and finger jello for good measure. Don't forget the sparkling lemonade.

If Rosa and Sharon are around, there are always presents! Thanks for the great goodies. What fun!

Some visiting, some shopping in the Milkhouse and then they were gone. Until next time.