Six in One Hand....Madness in the Other

I'm Aliiiiiive!!!!

2012-01-08T18:05:00.000-08:00

I know that almost all...and I do mean all of you

thought that I have died and fallen off the face of the planet.

On the contrary....

I've been busy...

beyond busy...

EXTREMELY busy....

This has been an insane year for me.

It's been a trying time for The Divine Mr. M and me.

There was a very painful custody battle

and now we are facing the death of a family member.

Mix all that in with one child in college

and the other three in just about every extracurricular activity

that you can imagine and life goes by quickly.

Before I even realized it

almost an entire year has gone by without blogging and connecting with ya'll.

I'm oh so sorry.

I miss ya'll and I'm back!!!!

I won't be here on a daily basis, but I am definitely going to be here at least once a week if I can.

The Divine Mr. M and I have been remodeling the farmhouse.

We are finishing up the kitchen even as I type.

(okay...Mr. M is finishing up. I had to give him credit because

he's on all fours laying the floor and giving me the stank eye.")

I can't wait to show ya'll!!!

I know that I've lost a few readers and I understand but I thank all of ya'll who have hung in there with me.

I have to go now....

being back from the dead has made me hungry.

Anyone know where I can't get some tasty brains this time of night?

I'm changing

2011-05-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

This spring has shown all kinds of changes for me.

Changes with my health, my family, my house and my way of life in general.

Be it good or bad...I'm changing.

I can't wait to show ya'll all the transformations that have been going on around me!!!

I think ya'll are going to like them.

Icicle thoughts

2011-02-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

DROPS OF CHARACTER

Have you ever watched an ICICLE form?

Did you notice how the dripping water froze, ......one drop

at a time, ....until the icicle was a foot long.... or more?

If the water was clean, the icicle remained clear and sparkled

brightly in the sun, but if the water was slightly muddy, the

icicle looked cloudy, its beauty spoiled.

Our character is formed in like manner.

Each thought or feeling adds its influence.

Each decision we make - both great and small contributes its part.

Everything we take into our mind:

impressions

experiences

images/words help create our character.

Acts that develop habits of hate, falsehood, & evil intent mar and

eventually destroy us---but habits born of love, truth & goodness

silently mold us into the image of God!

Character is what you are in the dark.

I read this once in a public speaking class in college

and it truly made an impression on me.

Whenever I see icicles, I always think of this passage.

It constantly reminds me to maintain my character at all time because I personally

want my icicle to be beautiful and sparkly.

What is your icicle like?

Bust a Move

2011-01-20T12:27:00.000-08:00

"Don't just stand there....bust a move!"..Young MC

That's what I told myself this week.

I could either keep moping and feeling down

or I could get up and do something.

So that's what I've done.

The divine Mr. M is putting in a new closet system for me

and I just had to take advantage of a golden opportunity.

Since everything was off the shelves, I painted the wall

a nice off white called French Canvas .

It still looked kinda.....mmmmpphh.

So I decided to break out a stencil that I've been saving for some pillows and stencil the wall.

Why the closet?

Because I'm a big, fat chicken.

I love the look of stenciled walls but would never commit to myself doing it in a major room.

I can barely sign my name legibly, yet alone paint.

So, I'm starting with the closet.

I'm stepping out on a limb and trying something new!

I can't wait to show ya'll the fininshed product.

Besides, if it's not that great......

only Mr. M and I have to look at it everyday.

New Year...New Me

2011-01-09T18:34:00.000-08:00

A tide has turned in my life.

I can't really discuss it right now but it's been very hard...

and heartbreaking.

Things are changing at a rate that I can't really keep up with.

I have done a great deal of soul searching

and praying

and crying

to try to find meaning to all of this.

I know that one thing is for certain.

I have to take some time to devote to me.

I'm still forever the devoted wife and mother but I feel like

I'm losing myself.

When I look into the mirror I don't see myself anymore.

I see someone trying to be what others want.

I see a woman that is afraid to step out because I'm afraid to fail.

I see a woman who has pushed herself to the limit to live up to unrealistic expectations

and hates to say "No."

I know that I can't be alone in this.

If there is anyone else who feels the way I do, then make this year a great one.

Take time for yourself.

Do the things that make you happy.

Say "No" once in a while.

I know that I will.

P.S. The Divine Mr. M and I have started to renovate

our farmhouse and we can't wait to share it with you!!!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2010-12-19T04:55:00.000-08:00

May your Christmas be filled with love

and joy of the new year.

As we embark upon the holiday season,

let us not forget the greatest gift of all.

Merry Christmas

from

Six in One Hand.

Where Does the Time Go???

2010-10-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

I have NOOOO idea.

Actually, that's not true.....

I've been ill.

Very ill.

Hospital ill.

Before you freak out.......

I had a really bad lung infection.

It sucked.

Apparently, my computer hasn't been immune either.

She got sick too...

It sucked BIG TIME.

Then there's this cutie...

Yep..

That's my girl Taylor up to bat.

She decided to play softball so I've been at every game cheering her on.

Do you see her number??

Do ya?

She CHOSE that number all by herself.

That's right.

That's the number SIX she's rocking!!!

Her little sister is in on the act too...

That's my youngest Tori as their bat girl.

She's still rocking her number zero from basketball season.

It's now her signature number.

I now have this handsome fella....

That's not Louis Armstrong...

That's my youngest son Daviss blowing away on the trumpet.

He's doing an amazing job!

You should hear his

"Mary Had a Little Lamb."

Once the dust settled, I realized that I've left you guys behind.

I'm sooooo sorry.

Can you ever forgive me?

And the Winners are............

2010-09-01T05:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who not only entered my giveaway but who

also gave well wishes for my first year.

I couldn't have done it without ya'll.

Let me stop rambling and get down to business.

The winners of my first year give back are.......

Love the Decor

won a

$25 gift card

for spreading some bloggy love!!!

Billypandnikkysmom

won a

$25 gift card

for being an awesome follower!!!!

and.............

Loui♥

won the

giveaway basket and a $50 gift card!!!!!

Congratulations to these awesome ladies!!!!

If you are a winner, please email me with your contact information

and I will happily ship your treasures your way!!

Once again, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who

has read and supported my blog (and me) with your friendship and words of encouragement.

I have some major projects underway that I can't wait to show ya'll

and some new things for my shop that I think ya'll will just love!!

I'm Shameless

2010-08-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

When it comes to lovinnnnnn ya'll!!!!!!

(not Garth Brooks, but not bad either...)

Ya'll have continued to show some amazing bloggy love!!!!

Six in One Hand readers are some of the dearest

292 friends a girl could have.

Thank ya'll so much for all of the support and love this past year!!!

There is STILL TIME to enter and tell the world about my awesome anniversary giveaway!!!

What??

You don't know what I'm talking about???

Well then........

you must go here and learn all about it!!!!

Run on over!!

I'll be waiting for you.

2010-08-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

In my excitement to give ya'll one of my greatest giveaways,

I totally forgot to tell you when it ends!!!

Mark your calendars for August 31st 'cuz that's when

this baby's commin' to a close.

Now, you have two choices....

You can either...

A. Keep this wonderful giveaway to yourself

B. Share the love and tell the world about the fabulousness

(is that a word?)

going on over at Six in One Hand.

I prefer that you do "B"..

Why??

Cuz I'd like to give my other 25 dollars away

or I can go shopping with it....

Your choice.

I've even made it easier for you to get the word out.

See that big 'ol button on my sidebar?

Yep, that's it.

Just slap it on your sidebar and you've shared some bloggy love.

Isn't that easy???

Soooooo

Whatcha waiting for?

Grab a button and grab yourself some quick moolah.

Just don't forget to tell me you told the world

so I can share my piece of the pie...

or shoes...

or bling...

or whatever strikes your fancy.

The Wait is Over

2010-08-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

After a week of keeping ya'll in suspense,

I was finally able to do a photo shoot.

As soon as I set everything up....the thunder and rain came

but I did manage in a few pics to show ya'll my give back for ya'll!!!!

If most of you are like me, then you love to browse blogland

while you're eating breakfast or sipping your morining coffee.

So, what better way to show ya'll your fabulous offerings than at breakfast?

One lucky reader will receive this lovely antique french linen

and sugar bowl which has the most lovely age and patina to it.

Some wonderful vintage sheet music for your crafting and altered pleasure.

Some wonderful old letters and postcards written to a mother from her son

along with a pair of children's shoes and vintage baby dress.

Now, once I got to this point it started to rain,

so I'm just gonna tell ya'll what else you get....

What?

You heard me....

There's more!!!!

My lucky reader will not only receive all of these lovely prizes but they will also

receive....

A gorgeous collection of vegetable and flower seeds from

Hometown Seeds.

These lovely folks have some really beautiful offerings

including an emergency garden packet if you need to grow your own garden

due to financial restraints or the apocalypse.

Wouldn't some of your own home grown flowers look pretty in your sugar bowl?

Your own vintage stationary

to compose your own treasured memories.

Last, but not least.....

a $50 dollar Visa giftcard!!!!!!!!!!

Yep, that's right ya'll.

I'm throwing in some moolah!!!!!

Sooooooooooooooooo

What does a gal (or guy)

have to do for all this greatness???

Leave a message.

That's it....

That's all.........

This giveaway is to totally celebrate my supportive readers who have been there through thick and thin.

If you happen to read my blog and have never decided to follow......

now's the time!!!

I'm offering one of my followers

$25 Visa Gift Card!!!

Just for hanging out with me.

How cool is that?!?!?!?!

If you want to spread the word......

go right ahead.

Just let me know that you're sharing the love and I'm gonna share it back....

with

$25 dollars!!!!!!

Just let me know that you've let the world know about lil 'ol me and my blog in a separate reply and you're set.

This is over one hundered dollars in give back love folks!!!!!!

Thank ya'll soooooo much for an amazing year!!!!

I can't wait to show ya'll what's in the works for this coming year.

Still Hanging in There................

2010-08-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

I'm still here.

I've tried desperately these last few days to get my giveaway posted.

I have some wonderful things for ya'll

but I can't get the opportunity to take pics

because it keeps raining.

The sun was out today so I ran outside,

set up my stuff

and got all ready to shoot some photos.

Then, the rain came.

It's not supposed to rain tomorrow.

I'm going to get this done.

The divine Mr. M even feels sorry for me.

He offered to be my assistant so that I can

tell ya'll about your giveaway.

I did happen to notice that I lost another follower today.

For all of ya'll who have been there .....

thank you.

I truly appreciate ya'll from the bottom of my heart.

Thanks for hanging in there......

I have great things for ya'll......

Tomorrow.

Happy Birthday to Meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

2010-08-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

This wednesday is a major milestone for me.

I turn one!!!!

Okay, I haven't lost my mind and have resorted back to childhood

(although that doesn't sound like a bad idea really..)

Wednesday will mark my first birthday

Six in One Hand!!!

You can continue to clap and scream....

I'll wait........

Exhausted yet?

I am so grateful to all of ya'll out there in blogland.

This past year has taken me on the most amazing journey.

I have met some of the most awesome people

and have forged some wonderful friendships.

I have been places and seen sights

(not to mention spent some major cash...and checks...and credit.)

Through all of my ups and downs...ya'll have been there.

Tumor....check.

New job....check.

Brand new husband and four kids....check.

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

I'm doing a giveaway!!!!

I'll tell ya all about it tomorrow.

I'm pulling out all the stops on this puppy!!!!

I can't wait to share the love that ya'll have given me!!!!

See ya tomorrow!!!

Now, where did Shuga put my birthday cake?

Purple heart

2010-07-22T07:53:00.000-07:00

I know that ya'll are wondering where I've been for the last few weeks.

I have been injured in the line of duty....

as a mama.

I fell down the stairs while caring my youngest daughter

because she had a sore foot.

Unfortunately, instead of receiving a purple heart

the only thing I did receive was a purple, swollen ankle.

I didn't fracture anything but I did tear a ligament pretty good

so I'm just now getting into the swing of things.

I'll be talking with ya'll soon!!!!!

My one year anniversary is coming up and I've got some awesome stuff in store!!!

2010-07-04T13:52:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a

Happy Independence Day!!!!

As we barbeque, spend time with families and possibly set ourselves on fire with fireworks,

please remember all of the priviledges and rights that we have been afforded because of our forefathers

who took a stand and had to fortitude to follow it through.

Now.............

could somebody pleeeeeze pass the potato salad?

California Love

2010-06-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Hi all!!!!

I know that ya'll are wondering where I've been.

The Divine Mr. M and I just arrived back to Texas

from San Francisco where we celebrated our first anniversary!!!!

I can't wait to show ya'll all of the great sights

(and even better finds)

from our trip!!!!

I'm going to rest now.....

I have horrible jet lag.

Time to Get Things in Order

2010-06-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time in Athens

at Winnie and Talula's.

Not only were some of my good friends in attendance,

but there was some amazing finds as well.

See that fabulous little clock ?

It's mine.......

Go ahead and drool.

I'll wait.

The ever popular Mindy and Linda enjoying

the fabulosity of Linda's booth.

Linda's shop, Willow Nest, carries some of the most beautiful

pieces of vintage items and whimsy that you could ever lay your eyes on.

Linda's dose of white with a touch of color is simply perfect.

This ribbon and millinery were divine and were just right for spring.

Willow Nest also knows how to add the most wonderful

use of contrast such as velvet and burlap.

I made a bee line over to one of my favorite booths ever....

Robojunker...aka Margo.

Margo's wares make me swoon.

Although I'm a pearls and diamonds wearing lady

I'm really a rust and bolts kinda gal.

I LOVE RUST!!!!!

There...I said it...

I have an addiction to industrial junk

and Margo is one of my suppliers to my habit.

Just look at this scale!!!

With rust like this, who needs frills?

I tried to buy it but Mr.M reminded me that I already own one just like it...darn.

Margo did have some pretty shiny glass

because every girl needs some kind of bling.

This printer's tray was stunning.

The possibilities were endless but I had my eye on a few other items that I will show ya'll later.

I had to stop in and visit with my fairy blog parents,

Debbie and the infamous Cat Daddy

of Talking Trash.

My fairy blog mama did not disappoint.

Remember the clock?

That's right...swiped it right up from her booth.

There was nothing trashy about this offering of gorgeous delights.

Cat Daddy was out on the street corner (literally)

showcasing some of his fine silver and great vintage finds.

See this really awesome post?

Cat Daddy had it......and I wanted it....baaaaaaaaad!!!

I begged.

I pleaded.

I made puppy dog eyes and stucky my lip out

but Mr. M wasn't having any of it.

He said the truck was too small to tote it home...boo!

It was such a gorgeous day that even the butterflies were

out and about.

There were so many beautiful finds that I don't have time to list them all

but I wish that I could.

Being in Athens definitely gave me a new perspective for

the spring.

I felt fresh and renewed and ready to get everything in order

for the renovation and remodeling of our house and our lives.

It was so great to see old finds and friends.

If you're ever up by Athens, stop by Winnie and Talula's and stay for a while.

Who knows?

Perhaps you will be ready to get things in order as well.

Disorderly Conduct

2010-06-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

I'm gettin' all wild and outta control tomorrow!

The Divine Mr. M has brought my bail money

in his pocket

and I've been practicing my mug shot pose.

Why? you ask?

Cuz.....

I'm gonna get

Junk and Disorderly

Winnie and Talula's!!!!!

There will be much to see and buy!!!

I can't wait to go disturb the peace

and my bank account!!

I know that I won't be the only one there

'cuz several of my partners in crime will be in attendance as well!!

If you happen to be on the run from the fuzz

and you just happen to escape by Athens,

then stop in and say howdy.

We'll keep your alibi for you.

Now.....

where did I put my recipe for baking metal files in cake?

Rock On

2010-05-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a day of great joy and much sadness for me.

Yesterday my oldest son, Alexander, graduated from high school.

I awoke that morning in tears.

This was the day that I had tried to dream about for eighteen years.

The day that my son was born, the nurse placed him in my arms

and as I counted all of his fingers and toes, I tried to imagine our future.

You see, I was still in high school myself.

I was seventeen and very nervous.

There was no turning back now.

I tried with all of my might to imagine what type of man he would become

and if I could live up to being a good mother for him.

Over the years I've watched him grow

and become his own person.

As he sat amonst the seven hundred plus graduates in his class,

I sat and recalled his entire life.

His first word...."Dada."

His first steps...trying to take the curlers out of my hair when he was ll months old.

His first tooth....when he was six months old.

His first day of school....when he was four.

His first fight...age five...with a boy on his school bus.

His first little league game...when he was eight.

His first girlfriend...when he was fifteen.

Now, his first day setting out as a man.

It is so hard to believe that this is the same baby that I held in my arms.

The same little boy who could really cared less about baseball

and the same little boy who seemed all grown up.

Alex took the day in stride.

He was so calm and I was a nervous wreck.

The prinicipal asked the parents of the graduates to please stand for recognition.

Alex looked up at me in the stands and raised his arm

in the "rock on" hand gesture as he was all smiles.

I gave the "rock on" gesture back

then sat down and cried into my tissue

while Mr. M. hugged me.

As Alexander Vincent Price had his name called

and walked across the stage to receive his diploma,

he immediately gave the "rock on" gesture

to a screaming audience of approximately three thousand people

who loved it, with me being his biggest fan.

As he returned to his seat, Alex looked back into the audience to see if I was still there.

I hope that he knows that I will forever be right here watching and cheering

as he continues to make firsts in his life.

We've grown so much, him and I, and the bond that we have is immeasurable.

From the day he was born, I read Alex a book that said

"I'll love you forever."

"I'll like you for always."

"As long as I'm living, my baby you'll be."

Rock on Alex as you continue your journey through this life.

Always know that my baby you'll be.

A Big 'Ol Dose of Vitamin D

2010-05-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been blogging this last week.

My vitamin D is low and that means I am too....

Huh?

What da...?

My tumor consumes vitamin D like a kid at a candy store...

not in a good way.

When my level gets really...and I mean reeeeeeaaaaallly low,

I get really weak and my leg hurts like a muther trucker....

I've been on high doses of Vitamin D for three months now and I did really good!

So good, that my doc thought I could come off of it......NOT!

Two weeks without vitamin D and I'm

dragging my leg around like driftwood.

I called my doc and she started asking me questions...

Are you weak?

Yes.

Does your leg hurt?

I wouldn't be calling if it didn't.

Are you sick?

A little diarrhea...thought it was Mr. M's chicken salad.

Are you seeing or hearing things that you know shouldn't be there?

HUH???????

Apparently very low Vitamin D can cause

depression and even schizophrenia....

go figure.

So, back on the pill I go...vitamin D that is.

I will be out and about this weekend.

My oldest son Alex is graduating from high school.

There will be lots of tears and sniffling.

(Maybe it's the Vitamin D or me just being a mama.)

When I come back I have another giveaway for ya'll!!!!

This one's gonna be goooooood!!!!

P.S. In my absence,

The Divine Mr. M

celebrated his 30th birthday!!!!

Happy Birthday Punkin!!!!

I LOOOOOVVVVVEEE YOOOOUUUU!!!!!!

Now that I'm back in commission, I have a few

(okay....alot)

of projects to share with ya'll

as Mr. M and I

start to renovate our farm house.

Madness will ensue.....

Pretties will come forth.....

I guess I had better drink plenty of milk

for the months ahead.

A Little Experiment

2010-05-20T19:22:00.000-07:00

is going on within the halls

of my Etsy shop.

I am experimenting with a few new finds

that are outside of my typical collections.

I've done all of the math

and science

needed and the numbers are iffy.

By my calculations,

I project that ya'll will love my new treasures.

So make sure to stop by my shop and

see what wonderful breakthroughs

are going on at

Six in One Hand.

And the Prize Goes To....

2010-05-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Lauren. bo!!!!!

Lauren, please email me with your shipping information

and I will have your clock shipped to you lickety split!!!

Thanks to everyone who showed and spread some love

to my little blog.

I have another giveaway planned for June

in hopes of having my big 300!!!!

It's gonna be gooooooooood.

My Blind Side

2010-05-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

"I would like to thank what this movie was about for me, which are the moms that take care of the babies and the children no matter where they come from."....Sandra Bullock

I would like to say

Happy Mother's Day

to all the women of the world

who endured swollen feet, stretch marks,

and unrelenting childbirth to take on

the title of "Mom."

For those who have wiped noses,

tended fevers and kissed boo-boos

for their little ones, I applaud you.

I also would like to take this time

to give a standing ovation

to all the mothers of the world

who care for their children

and love them unconditionally

yet never gave birth to them.

These are the women that are worth

more than precious gold.

To love another as your own

is a love that holds no bounds and

knows no limitations.

I am proud to say that I have the pleasure

of belonging to both groups of women.

I have had the joy of raising

my two sons and what a journey it has been!!

Both of my boys are teenagers now and

one will be graduating high school in a few short weeks.

I've discovered that being a mother and worrying about your children

never really stops at age eighteen.

Last year, I got to join the special group

of women who Sandra Bullock spoke

of.

I became a mom to these precious girls.

They are my girls....not my stepdaughters....my girls.

I love them with everything that I have.

I could never imagine loving a child as

much as my sons until I met these two.

They touched my heart in a way that I could never explain.

I now have a whole new set of worries to add to my list.

Makeup....high heels.....boys.....

My oldest daughter Taylor told me one day,

"Don't worry...I got your back."

It was all in fun but I belived her.

She had my blind side during a home football game

and I will forever have hers.

As we spend time with our families today,

take the time today to not only thank

your mother for all the years of love and care,

but remember the other women in your life

who watched your blind side

and kept you from being tackled

in this game of life.

Don't Forget....

2010-05-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

That there are some amazing giveaways going on even as we speak.

Adrienne of The Flying Bee

is reopening her Etsy shop and is

having an amazing giveaway!!!

Rebbecca Ersfield for Vintage Living

is hosting the most amazing giveaway you'll ever

want to be a part of!!!

Of Course, yours truly is hosting her own giveaway!!!!

Just simply go here

to get in on the chance to win this lovely:

Run, don't walk on over to these great blogs

with even greater giveaways!!!!

Good Luck!!!

PSSSSSTTTT.......

If you win, you can always split your pretties with me

for telling ya'll all about them!!!

How Time Flies

2010-05-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

In the wake of all that I have going on around me,

I just realized that I have had well over

one hundred posts since I started this

blogging journey eight months ago.

This journey has taken me through highs and lows.

I've come to see my own limitations ,both physicially and mentally,

and have learned so much about myself.

The best part of this whole cycle is that I've had the opportunity

to meet and befriend some of the greatest group of women and men

that this world has to offer.

Blogging has opened a whole world of friendships and connections

that I would have never known otherwise.

Ya'll are the best!!!!

Hands down!!!!!!

So, in honor of my milestone

I am hosting a giveaway!!!!!

I have the pleasant honor of giving away time....

I know you're thinking...

huh?

I didn't find the fountain of youth

or ageless beauty in a bottle because if I did.....

I would have drank it ALLLLL!!!!!

Instead, I'm giving you this....

This baby is pretteeeeeeee!!!!!

I found her located here and just had to have her.

I loved her soooo much that I thought ya'll should have one too!!!

Now...

I know...

you're thinking....

What I gotta do to get that pretty filly for myself?

I'm glad you asked...

No. 1

Leave a comment...short and sweet, long and poignant...I love to hear from ya'll.

No. 2

Become a follower for a second chance.If you're already following me, just let me know.

No. 3

Spread the love...let others know about this great giveaway and let me know you've spread the word for a third chance.

That's it...that's all.

This giveaway will be open until midnight, May 16th.

Thank ya'll for going along with me on this awesome journey.

I couldn't have done it without ya'll!!!!

For the Love of Linens

2010-04-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have a secret love that most people don't know about.

I am in love with vintage linens.

There is nothing that makes my heart skip faster...except rust.

The feel of vintage clothing and linens between my fingertips

is, in my mind, a fine walk between sensuality and nostalgia.

The colorful pattern of a tablecloth reminds me of my

childhood as I sat at my great-aunt's dining table in the summertime

while the simplicity of a thread bare nightgown intrigues my senses

of touch and sight as I wonder about its history.

No modern convenience will afford me the luxury

like vintage linens and clothing.

Its appeal simply cannot be reproduced.

I'm so glad that I am not the only one who shares in my admiration.

My dear friend, Leann of The Vintage Laundress,

has turned this passion into her specialty.

Her showing in Warrenton was stunning.

Her selection of vintage textiles was enough

to make any lover of linens swoon.

Leann's array of goods range from table linens

to vintage nightgowns with everything else in between.

There is surely something for everyone wanting a small piece

of luxury for themselves.

I know that many of us junkers are always on the search

for great pieces to add to our collections or to our home.

The next time you are on your quest for something that will

fill your home and possible your heart with sheer delight,

consider that stack of old linens and clothing.

There just might be the perfect jewel awaiting to be added to your crown of vintage royalty.

Warrenton Scrapbook

2010-04-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

Even though it's been a few weeks since Warrenton,

I thought that I would show y'all

my scrapbook of photos.

So sit back, grab a drink and enjoy!!!!

A really adorable vignette

from Anne with Fiona and Twig.

She is one of my junking sistas and dear friends.

Not to mention bloggy superstar in her own right.

Another cute vignette done by Anne

in Effie's booth.

These two ladies are such a force!

Effie supplied the goods and Anne made it pretty.

The end result was stunning.

My own fairy blog parents...

Debbie and Cat Daddy!!!

I am so privileged to call these two people

my friends.

Somehow I lost the pics from their booth and I'm just sick over it.

I did buy something really cute from them that I'm just gonna have to show y'all later.

This fabulous set belongs

to none other than

Theresa of Garden Antiques Vintage.

If you have never seen her work

then you are missing out!!!

Here's just a small sampling

of her amazing antiques.

Didn't I tell ya?

Fabulous.

These next pics are from my favorite vendor of all time.

Brian and Meloney Russell of

The Seed Box Antiques.

I have to go and see this creative couple

whenever they are remotely close to my location.

When I say remote...I mean anything less than eight hours.

Only these two could make a chicken coop look so good.

So good, in fact, that I bought one and brought it home.

I haven't figured out where it's gonna go yet..

I wanted this set of lockers soooooooo bad.

Mr. M told me it was not only out of my budget,

but he wasn't dragging that all the way back home.

BOOOOOOO!!!!!

This chair made my heart melt.

I was reminded, once again, that it was out of my budget

aaaaaannnnnddd

that I have small children.

Bummer.

Meloney has the most ingenious uses for ordinary items.

This is the only woman I know who can make

old paint brushes look amazing as Christmas ornaments

and makes newspaper into the most beautiful package.

The display of old books had me drooling.

It was embarrassing.

Even The Divine Mr. M dabbed the corner of my mouth for me...honest to goodness.

Brian and Meloney's play with textures and color

is beyond measure.

I just fell in love with these old rolls of string.

My great-aunt used to have several of these.

I remember playing with them as a child.

Now onto some Warrenton randomness...

I just loved this Volkswagen.

These flower frogs just dazzled in the sunlight.

I really wanted this lock but the vendor wanted waaaaay too much for it.

The odd thing is, I looked at this exact same lock from this exact

same vendor last fall.

He actually went UP on his price.

He said it was because he spent a long time adding it to his collection.

I just wondered why he was even trying to sell it.

What trip would be complete without a Jethro sandwich?

I hope y'all enjoyed my pics of Warrenton

'cuz I have a few more to show y'all later.

I'm off tomorrow to do

Relay for Life.

I will be my team's survivor.

I encourage you to donate and give to the

American Cancer Society

as this is such a great organization and almost every single person

has been affected by cancer in some way.

Getting My Nesting On

2010-04-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air

and everyone knows what that means.

It's time for me to get to work.

I get spring fever really bad.

I thoroughly enjoy the rituals

of spring cleaning

and making the house come to life.

This year is a little different for me

because Mr. M and I purchased

a 1951 farmhouse and we

are in the process of renovating.

I've waited all winter to paint

and peel ugly wallpaper

and paint

and sew pillows

and paint

and hang new curtains...

did I mention paint?

(Let's just say there's a certain red in my bedroom that is giving me angst.)

I also have the need to purchase

some new furniture.

As newlyweds, Mr. M and I have

tried to meld our furniture together.

Some of it has worked and some of it...

well, let's just say....not so much.

(I'm not trying to say names but Mr. Couch and Mr. Loveseat....you know...)

I've been looking at some barstools

and a small table to make a sitting area

and I stumbled upon this store.

All I can say is WOW!!!!!

This place has EVERYTHING you could ever imagine.

I'm not kidding.

I got so sidetracked by looking at everything else they had

that I still haven't decided on which barstools I want.

(I have a few dozen in mind...A girl has the right to change her mind.)

C'est la vie!!!!

I'm also hosting a few giveaways over the next two weeks.

There is just something about spring that I love

and want to share with everybody.

If anyone else is suffering from

nesting syndrome and spring fever like me,

then I hope you find a cure

or at least the right shade of paint.

Sometimes You Feel Like a Schmuck......

2010-04-18T20:38:00.000-07:00

See this lady????

Unless you live in a cave or under a rock somewhere...

chances are....

you know who she is.

In the event that you don't,

she is Heather Bullard.

Queen of blogging

and vintage living.

Heather Bullard is the reason I started

to read blogs in the first place.

Somehow, I stumbled upon a pic

on the internet from her blog.

I was intrigued to say the least.

So began a year long routine of stalking.

Every evening I would sit down to my computer

and see what Heather had done next.

She is my blogging idol.

I have always wanted to meet her and tell her

how much she has influenced me

and inevitably changed my life.

Fast forward........

to Warrenton....

to Theresa's blog party.

A woman walks up and shakes my hand

and says "Hi. I'm Heather."

Me: "Do you have a blog?"

Heather: "Yes. It's called Vintage Living."

Me: "Oh. I've read that blog. It's nice."

Heather: "Thanks."

End of conversation.

I don't know if it was the fact that I was

trying to hurry and see everyone before I had to drive back home

or the Jack Daniels in my mason jar...

either way....

I TOTALLY blew off the one woman I wanted to meet!!

I didn't even recognize her and she was right in front of me.

GEEEEEEEESSSSSSSHHHHH!

As I was walking to my car,

I caught a side profile of Heather

from far off.

THAT's when I thought it might be her.

I actually asked The Divine Mr. M

if I should run across the field

like some crazed lunatic

and try to get her attention

as she was leaving too.

Mr. M just stared at me....

(insert crickets chirping)

Heather,

if you just happen to be reading this....

I'm sooooo sorry.

You are such an inspiration to me

and I only wish that I could have told you

that you are the bee's knees.

I'm just gonna have to wait until

I hopefully meet Heather again.

Until then....

my new name is

Angélique

Schmuckately.

If Mama's Not Happy.......

2010-04-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

No one's happy.

I made a boo-boo.

I posted this picture....

as belonging to Mindy's booth

when in fact it belonged to

the booth of my fair blog mama...

Debbie

Talking Trash.

Gassspppp!!!!!

I know....

In my defense these two lovely ladies

were right next to each other

so I somehow put this photo in

Mindy's set of pics.

My deepest apologies to my "mama."

I'm definitely not trying to get my

backside red for this.

Pleeeeeeeeze forgive me ya'll!!!!

Better Late Than Never....

2010-04-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

I know......

I know.........

I promised ya'll all the

juicy pictures and great stories

of my trip to Warrenton.

It just so happened that I started my new job

the next day and I'm just getting into the swing of things

sooooooo.........

here...

we.......

gooooooooo!!!!

My very first stop was to

Jill Suzanne.

This young lady lives just a hop and a skip

down the street from me....literally.

She has some of the most amazing jewelry and

vintage finds you could set your eyes upon.

I am totally in awe of the stark contrast

between fine china and deer horns.

Jill finds a way to make it look effortless.

She has some amazing books that have such a nice patina

along with some really funky crosses made out of old license plates....cooool!

One of her biggest sellers this year

was one of these guys.

Her primitive rabbits sold super fast and are just adorable.

Perhaps Jill is best known for her

amazing handpoured candles.

The scent can't be beat and I just get

dizzy over these Mason jars with zinc lids....swoon.

One of my next stops was none other than to....

I can't even begin....begin I tell ya' to describe

Mindy's booth.

Mindy has one of the most impeccable displays around.

I was truly in love with this silver and black display.

It is simply vintage elegance with a modern feel.

This particular vignette had me hyperventilating!!!

It's vintage appeal has such a designer flair....

GORGEOUS!!!!!

Mindy's take on antiques was sheer genius!!!

The best part about seeing Mindy is that she

was in cohorts with the author of these awesome creations...

Robelyn of red.neck chic was there!!!

If you have not had the opportunity to see beauty in its finest,

then RUN....don't walk over to her blog and experience

purse heaven firsthand!!!!

Robelyn is one of my long lost sisters and she never fails to

have the greatest imagination.

See this?

This is not the skirt to a frilly dress....uh uh.

This....my dears....is a purse.

That's right.....a purse.

Only Robelyn could create such whimsy

and elegance in one breath.

This purse was my fave.

The detail is simply divine.

I was going to buy one but I was getting the

"stank eye" from Mr. M.

c'est la vie!!!!

I can't wait to show ya'll the rest of the awesome vendors

and finds that I encountered on my trip...

I hope that you will enjoy them too.

Round Top Ruckus

2010-04-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

Okay.....

most of ya'll know that I spent last weekend in Warrenton

and Round Top

doing my fair share of junking and shopping

for some amazing antiques.

But....

no one knew that I was there on an exposé.

I've heard all about what goes on behind the scenes

at Round Top and I was going to get to the bottom of it.

I started my undercover mission like any non-assuming shopper.

Cart....check.

Cute clothes.....check.

Fist full of money burnin' a hole in my pocket.....check.

I came across this woman first.

Oh.....she was wheelin' and dealin'

and she even tried to entice me with her candles and wine

but I didn't fall for it one bit.

I knew that I had to dig deeper.

I continued shopping and searching when I spotted these two...

Don't let the sweet faces and charming grins fool you.

These ladies in Bar W field are masters at their game.

There was a conspiracy brewing.....I just know it.

They tried to throw me off of their scent by

bringing over their helper.

I wasn't taking the bait.

These ladies tried so hard to get me to stay awhile and make me

forget all about my investigation but I was hot on the trail.

I made my way over by the Gin and

was immediately sidetracked by

this woman with hugs and salutations.

(I think she was tipped off by the Bar W ladies.)

I stopped and chatted but all the while I was taking notes

and gathering evidence.

I was getting all ready to blow this Round Top ruckus wide open.

I figured I must have been onto something

'cuz the muscle of the organization

came looking for me.

I was able to sweet talk my way out of that one

and continued my pursuits.

A hot tip

(and a cool beer)

led me to Zapp Hall

where I met some of the major players

in the dealings that go on in Warrenton and Round Top

like this woman.

She seemed nice enough but she wasn't given up any

insider information.

This one just looked shady....

I think she was stealing something.

After several hours of hunting for a great story,

the only that I did leave with were some great finds

for my home and some awesome time with some amazing friends.

(I'm still not letting these two off of the hook just yet....)

I have left the names of the above absent

to protect their innocence...RIGHT!!!!

See if you can list everyone pictured here.

P.S........

This guy professed that he would give me the

whole scoop........

so I brought him home.

I'm Outta HERE!!!!!!!!

2010-03-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

My bags are packed

the camper is hitched

and I am on my way!!!!!

I can't wait to get to Warrenton and see all of my good

bloggy friends

as well as some dynamic shopping!!!!

I will tell ya'll all about it......

on Monday.

What Happened???

2010-03-25T06:27:00.000-07:00

Do you see my followers?

Did you notice anything different??

I lost four....count 'em....FOUR

followers in one day!!!!

Okay...so I'm not a numbers kinda gal...

I don't measure my blog's worth by how many followers

that I have or how popular I am....

but this kinda hurt...

I will definitely be posting more blogs now that

I'm back in the game...but what did I do?

What Happened????

To my previous followers......

if I did anything to offend you....

I'm sorry.....

I promise that I can be a better blogger.....

honest.

Good News!!

2010-03-25T06:15:00.000-07:00

I just HAAAAAD to share the good news with ya'll!!!

I will be starting a new chapter in my nursing career

as a clinical research nurse on Monday!!!

I am very excited and nervous all at the same time.

This is a whole new aspect for me.

There is so much to learn and do and room to grow in my new career.

God has something awesome planned for me.

I can't wait to see the end result.

Thank ya'll for praying for me and giving me kind words of encouragement

throughout this whole ordeal that I have had.

It definitely helps when you have good friends by your side!!

Look Out World!!!!!!

2010-03-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Here I come!!!

That's right!!!!!

I am headed to Round Top and Warrenton

for the Spring Antique Show!!!

I can't wait!!!!

The Divine Mr. M has the camper all ready to go

and I'm counting down the days until

I get to go back to the greatest show on earth!!!

If you have never been to the antique show in Warrenton,

then let me show you what you're missing...

Country Living

There are some of the most

jaw dropping antiques

and just good junk

for miles and miles!!!!

(insert squealing and clapping)

The best part is all of the great vendors that will be there!

There are some awesome folks that will be out and about like

Mindy of Primitiques 'n Poetry

The amazing Robelyn of Red.neck.chic

My fairy blog mama will be there...

the infamous Debbie of Talking Trash

and the ever so adorable

Adrienne of The Flying Bee

will be there just to name a few.

I am, of course, super excited to announce

that this show is the premiere show for

Anne of

Fiona and Twig!!!!

My girl is going to be with the

extraordinary Effie

(I call her E...)

So....

Whatcha waiting for?

Run on down(or up) to Warrenton and Roundtop

and say hi to some really good folks

and get in some really awesome shopping as well!!!!

It's Hip to be Square

2010-03-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

Today I buried an old friend.

A friend that has endured sunny days and rough storms.

It was with great sadness that I had to say goodbye....

to my old wreath.

She was a faithful wreath form..

sitting all alone on the clearance aisle at Michael's

I brought her home and made her mind.

She was hardworking and never complained.

She endured whatever came with grace

and then one day....

She started to fall apart.

I don't know why.

Perhaps it was the stress from the demands of her job...

greeting people and standing at the entrance of my humble abode.

Maybe she was just starting to feel her age

as her joints and limbs started to give way.

Mr. M laughed at her...and at me

as I bandaged her up on many occasions.

Alas, the day came when she could no longer be repaired

and I was forced to say "adieu."

I decided to pay homage to my dear wreath form

and create another sqaure in her memory.

I used natural vine garland,

vine wrapped wire,

dowel rods,

and thin green floral wire.

I shoved my dowel rods into the garland and secured them

with the vine wire so it could all blend.

I don't advise cutting your garland until you tie in the dowel rods

or you might come up short.

This is a close up of the back of the wreathform that I made.

It's not very pretty but it won't be seen anyway.

Once I had my form made, I started adding the boxwood

from the first wreath by tying it on with the thin

floral wire.

I preferred the single wire stems as I didn't feel like cutting wire every few feet.

In little over an hour, I had a new square wreath

for my door.

As you can see I wanted a very full wreath

so I just kept going around the form with my boxwood

until I had a thickness that I was happy with.

The lushness of the wreath against my horse bit

wreath hanger that I purchased from Margo

is simply stunning on my door.

I hope that my old friend can rest in peace now

as I have a great love in my heart for all things

square because of her.

Doing Cartwheels

2010-03-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone in Blogland!!!!

I know that most of you have actually thought the worse

since you have not heard from me.

I have actually received emails from a few of my bloggy friends

inquiring to my whereabouts.

I'm still here.

I've been going to a new doctor and she is wonderful.

Her name is Dr. Marx

and she is my new hero.

She has worked VERY hard and diligently to try and fix me.

(Seriously..this lady has burned some midnight oil for lil' ol me....)

I'm on a new regimen of medication

to fix some various problems to get me better

and it has worked by leaps and bounds!!!!

So.......

Where have I been?

I've been getting my house back in order.

Washing clothes

(lots of clothes.....sigh.)

Cleaning my house from top to bottom.

I have also been getting me back in order.

I've started interviewing for non-clinical

nursing roles.

That's basically a nurse paper pusher

but I've had several interviews these last few weeks

and have had even some second interviews...so who knows.

Alas, no one took me up on my offer for Warrenton.

I'm still a little bummed by this...

I really wanted to come and learn...

but 'cest la vie!!!

I am happy to report that I have not had to use my cane

for over two weeks now....YAY!!!!!

I even took my children to the park.

We walked the dogs

slid down the slides,

laughed

and did cartwheels!!!

Can you believe it????

I couldn't even walk a few months ago and now I'm doing cartwheels!!!!

Okay...so, I'm not as graceful as I was before the tumor...

but hot damn!!!!!!

(sorry if I offended anyone with the cursing...I was a little excited.)

I am back in my groove and I have

some brand new pretties to list on my etsy shop

this week that I think ya'll are gonna love!!!

I'm so glad to be back.

I don't know if this advancement in my health

is gonna last or not....

I'm gonna stay on the bus

until this bus breaks down.

Thank you for all of

your prayers and support.

I would have completely lost my mind

without all of the love thay ya'll have shown me.

I have to go now....

I have towels to fold.

P.S.

I'm still open for that Warrenton gig if anybody wants me.

I have my lunches packed and my smile perfected.

I might even dust off my beauty queen crown for ya!!!

Help for Hire

2010-02-16T09:10:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone in blogland!!!!!

See my sign?

The red one with the big white letters?

That's the one.

It's for me.

I know that I was bummed out about my job

but I thought about the positive.

I'm available for hire.

No....not as a nurse

but as an apprentice.

Slave labor....

okay,maybe not slaaaavvvee labor

but free assistance.

My number one goal is to

be a vendor at Warrenton in the fall.

I've got the stuff and the vision.

What I don't have is the experience.

Nada...

Zip...

Zilch...

Zero.

So, since I'm a lady of leisure

that doesn't have to worry about vacation time

or sick days....

I thought that I could come and help

whoever would love to have some assistance

and see how things are behind the scenes.

I have my own camper and all of my amenities.

I can help with setting up, selling, and just my

general good company are available at your

beck and call.

If anyone would like an assistant

or "fetcher" or prn sales girl...

I'm your woman!!!!

Besides, who can resist a face like this??

(Don't answer that...)

We Have A Winner!!!!!

2010-02-15T05:59:00.000-08:00

Ladies...and David....and Troy....

We have a winner!!!

True Random Number Generator

Min:

Max:

Result:

The winner is....

Melifaif!!!!

Send me an email and I let me know
your choice of color and finish (i.e. crackled...weathered..glitter...)
and I will create your own custom set of hearts just for you!!!!

I still want to thank everyone who left me a little love note.

Thank ya'll sooo much!!!

Have a Heart

2010-02-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

There is definitely some bloggy love

being spread around this Valentine holiday.

Patina Soul not only has a drool worthy blog,

she is having a novocaine numbing giveaway!!!

Feel free to stop on by and check her out!!!

Forever Cottage is hosting this fabulous giveaway!!!!

With winter bearing down on most of us here in the country,

Jill is getting ready for spring.

Stop by and check out her fabulous offerings!!!

Lisa from Tarnished and Tattered

is having the most gorgeous giveaway!!!

She has a cornucopia of vintage goodies.

This basket is only a small sampling of the vintage goodness

that is waiting for some lucky winner!!!

(I really hope it's meeeeee!)

Speaking of love, there has been so much outpouring

of love and encouragement for me these past few days.

It really has lifted my spirits and cheered my soul.

If you've ever thought that leaving a comment didn't really matter that much...

think again.

I spend eighty percent of my day all alone with just me and Shuga.

Reading your comments have really helped me through what

could have been a terrible time but ya'll are the sweetest ever.

I've picked myself up and dusted myself off.

(I also polished off half of a bottle of Grey Goose with orange juice..but that's another story.)

To show my love to all of my bloggy friends and cohorts,

I'm going to give away a set of these...

A set of my custom made hearts just for one of you lucky folks.

Just leave me a comment.....that's it...that's all.

I'll draw on Valentine's Day for the winner

so you have until 11:59 on February 13th.

The winner can email me with

their color choice and option of finishes for their hearts

because everyone's heart is different, right?

I know that my heart is so much better after hearing from friends like ya'll.

In God We Trust

2010-02-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

Do you see that word above?

The one in big Scrabble tiles?

That's what I need right now.

I need to trust.

I was just notified that I have been terminated

from my position in the ER due to my health.

This sucks....big time.

Nursing is the only thing that I have ever wanted to do

since I was a child.

I believe it is my calling.

So, to not only lose my position

but not know if I can work in my position again really hurts.

I believe that God has a bigger plan for me

but I need to trust him.

I am very scared and extremely hurt.

I've worked my whole life in nursing.

So now what do I do?

Mr. M tells me to stop crying because it will be okay.

I don't know how to stop.

I'm mad.

I don't want to be sick anymore.

I want my life back.

I can't even read what I'm typing for the tears and snot running down my face.

I'm just that hurt.

I know that as a Christian, I'm supposed to have an accepting spirit.

Please forgive me if I don't have one right now....

I'm still human..

I'm still a young woman...

I still have a husband and children

who I can no longer care for.

I still want to laugh and run and play

and provide for my family.

I don't want to be stared at anymore

or hear whispers when I limp by.

I want to be able to go and spend timewith my friends and family

instead of laying on my couch because I'm too weak.

I want to see my daughter sing at school

and not just hear her through the phone

because I am in so much pain.

I want to care for people

and not be cared for.

But I have to trust HIM.

I know that God has a plan for me

and I need to trust that His will is the best.

I'm sorry for this bummy post.

I just needed to vent.

It's Mind Blogging

2010-02-05T07:56:00.000-08:00

Or is that mind blowing????

This week has been pretty busy here

at the Six house.

After being awakened by my sis

Six Divided By Two...aka Misty,

to inform me that a good bloggy friend of ours

Idyllhours

wrote this amazing and soul stirring blog.

I have to admit that I was saying "Amen"

out loud while reading it.

Sis and I were so inspired by this moving blog

that we felt the need to start a new revelation

in blogging.

To blog for what matters to us

and not be concerned with just the numbers.

To stand out in the crowd and be as unique

as we were meant to be.

We decided to share our passion

to be individual

with fellow bloggers who share the same zeal.

We, the Six Sisters, created this.

The "Not a Stepford Blog" award

was created to celebrate those who buck the

blogging society and are true to themselves

and their blog.

Misty has already bestowed her award to several

fine bloggers out there and now it's my turn.

First and foremost, I have to award Debbie of Talking Trash.

Debbie is my fairy blog mother who dares to go where most

bloggers will never venture and she is hysterical in the process.

Second, I'd like to award The Texas Woman.

She has the courage of ten men and her

Tuesday posts will have you in stitches!

Third is Adrienne from The Flying Bee.

I love how she decided to totally take a new direction

with her blog and went for it!!!

The results were amazing.

Fourth is my girl Lulu Kellog.

Not only does Lulu make the most amazing jewelry

and crafts, but she has a dark side to her that I just love.

I mean c'mon...everyone can't be rainbows and unicorns EVERY day.

Last, but not least, is Gypsy Nurse from Writing Out Loud.

Her blogs are fun and inspiring as well as insightful.

This is a woman who is not afraid to put herself out there

and be transparent for the world.

I love her for that!!!!

If you have never met these talented women

please stop by and say hello.

I promise that you won't be disappointed

as they are all unique and amazing.

If you are one of the recepients of this award,
I hope that you will pass it on
to another blogger that you feel is different and wonderful
in their own unique way.

I'll Love You Forever

2010-02-01T00:02:00.000-08:00

I'll love you forever.

I'll like you for always.

As long as I'm living....

My baby you'll be.

Yesterday was a day met with mixed emotions for me.

My oldest son, Alexander, turned eighteen years old.

As I look back over these last eighteen years,

all I can think is

"Where did they go?"

Where is the baby that I held in my arms

and counted all of his fingers and toes?

Where is the baby who had colic

and constantly cried and I prayed to God to get me through it?

I eventually got through colic, first steps,

first day of school and so many other milestones in his young life.

All though he is a teenager through and through...

(He calls me a dinosaur....geesh)

I am sooooooooo proud of the man that he has

grown up to be.

He continues to amaze me

as he still has firsts in his life and how beautifully he takes

everything in stride.

Happy Birthday kiddo!!!

We made it......

I didn't post any baby pictures up

as promised.

(I'm saving those for graduation...)

Be My Valentine

2010-01-28T15:19:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that I love Valentine's Day.

It is my favorite holiday of the whole year!!!

I also have a great love for hearts.

I've always had a thing for them even when I was a child.

So of COURSE I would do something for my favorite day

that incorporated one of my favorite shapes.

The only thing is....

I didn't want to do red....or pink....or lavender.

I wanted something that I would love and that would fit

with my home.

Something that I could display all year long.

So I came up with these babies.

Each one is hand painted,stamped and finished by moi.

The best part is that they are available

to ya'll in my shop!!!!

They are available in vintage white above

or natural linen shown here.

Don't ya'll just L-O-V-E the detail???

The fine cracks just make my heart skip a beat!!

(No pun intended.)

They would be perfect for the holiday or just for your everyday decor.

My heart won't be broken if ya'll don't snatch these up right away

because I get to look at them a little while longer.

I'll have some more great stuff to show ya'll later.

My oldest is turning 18 this weekend

so big plans are ahead.

Thank you to all of your support and kindness.

I'm so glad to be back in the saddle again.

(Even if the horse is really old and can't go faster than a slow trot.)

Zero is My Hero!

2010-01-27T16:43:00.000-08:00

Do you see the little girl on the far right?

The one that's approximately two inches shorter than

everyone else on her basketball team?

The one who is staring off into space and could care less?

That's my Tori.

She started playing basketball a few weeks ago

and she was assigned the jersey number...

zero.

Tori was a little hurt by this

but my sister told her that

"zero is before the number one."

That made Tori smile

and she's been rocking her number ever since.

She will probably never be MVP or an all star

but Tori gives it her all.

She puts out 100 percent all the time.

She never lets her height slow her down.

Last Saturday Tori was running a new play

that they had learned just a few days prior.

This play involves Tori running in and making the basket.

I cringe everytime it's her turn because

she normally misses the basket.

This time, Tori set up her shot

and nailed it!!!

Nothin' but net baby!!!!

I was soooo excited that I jumped up

and started screaming.

The whole gym was chanting her name.

Tori! Tori! Tori!

My number zero just took it in stride,

skipped down the court,

and stopped for a photo op.

Tori has taught me so much in these last few weeks.

She's taught me to press on despite

my physical shortcomings.

I am so proud of my zero.

She is my new hero.

Hey Stranger!!!!!

2010-01-27T10:50:00.000-08:00

I know you've been wondering....

"Where'd ya go?"

I've been at home.

All day.

Every day.

Alone.

I'm starting to feel like that little fella above.

Staring out into the world and watching it go by.

Many of you have commented that you

have missed me and wanted to know how I am doing.

I'm kinda like a puppy...

most days I have to wait until

Mr. M comes home to take me to pee

and feed me.

These last few days have been really good.

I am not only able to walk again....YAY!

I don't have to use my cane as much unless it's for long distances.

I saw the new doc and he ran ALL kinds of tests on me...

I thought I was gonna need some juice and a cookie after all that blood...

They drew fourteen...that's right...FOURTEEN large tubes of blood at one time.

I'm a nurse so I'm no wimp when it comes to needles and such

but good heavens!!!!

I have to go take all kinds of xrays next...

If you look towards the southeast at night...you will probably be able to

see me glowing.

I've started this diet HIGH in seafood

and I mean HIIIIIIGGGGGHHH.

(I've started to grow fins...)

But the omega-3's and the vitamin E

are helping my inflammatory process

so...whatever.

I'm not much on "all natural" stuff...

some of it is a bunch of crock

but this is working.

I can walk and my pain is

very tolerable.

So...fish it is.

I have been keeping myself occupied.

My Etsy shop is now open!!!

Yep...

That's right....

FINALLY!!!!

I've listed a few of my pieces to get started

so if you see something you like...

feel free to buy it!!!!

Here are a sample of my wares...

Nice, huh?

I've also done some projects

and some altered junque.

I can't wait to show ya'll

my new items for Valentines.

(Which happens to be my favorite day of the whole year!!!!)

Check back tomorrow and

see what else is in "store" for ya'll!!!!

Thank ya'll soooooo much

for thinking of me and offering

prayers on my behalf.

I know that I couldn't have come this far without it.

If anyone has any great fish recipes out there...

I'm all fins.

New Year ...New Changes

2010-01-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

Helllooooooooooo!!!!!
I'm sure ya'll thought that I have slipped off the face of the earth by now.
Nawwww.....

I rang in the new year with my very best friends
(like I do every year.)

We get all dressed up and sit around the house.....fun times, let me tell ya!

The Divine Mr. M and I drove up
to his uncle's ranch and spent the weekend with the family.

What did I do that weekend?

I did what every red-blooded Texan does
with wide open space and time to kill...

I fired off the 12 gauge shotgun.

Now, don't get into a tizzy....

I was skeet shooting.

No animals were harmed.

It was sooo funny to watch Mr. M

tell me to "hold onto it really tight 'cuz it's gonna knock you back."

I'm still waiting for it to knock me back.

I did really good.

My cousin-in-law

said I was showing him up....ha!

Mr. M and I did drive around the property and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

Shuga got to chase a rabbit.

Again, nothing to worry about or fret over...

That rabbit had Shuga by a hundred paces

and Shuga gave up really quick.

That trip to the ranch was just what I needed.

I'm back refreshed and renewed for 2010!

I'm going to take a small hiatus to

take down the old

and start with the new!!!

This will give me time to clean up

(which takes a long time these days)

and organize my office.

(You don't want to see it now....TRUST me..)

I've decided to take full advantage

of my disadvantages.

My etsy shop will be up and running

and I have some awesome

things to display!!!

I've also decided to take this time at home

to start some projects

(don't worry...they're all "leg" safe)

that I've been wanting to try for a loooong time.

All giveaways are being mailed out tomorrow.

( a little sumtin' sumtin' is included for the wait.)

I want to take a minute to thank

Lulu Kellog

for my pomander

that I won!!!!

It is soooooo beautiful!!!!!

She even threw in

and beatiful charm for meeeee!!!!

Thanks to Anne

who sent me an aweome

pimpin' cane!!!

My kids thinks it's awesome.

I just can't carry it to the airport and stuff like that

due to the concealed sword and all

but it's the

shiznit!!!

I'm looking at life in a whole new perspective.

I'm learning how to redo everyday chores differently

with my leg.

I have been referred to the head rheumatologist

at Hermann.

I hope he can fix me

(or at least use really good duct tape to ptach me up.)

So, I will see ya'll in a week

(or two.)

I will be back...with new gusto!!!!!

Like General MacArthur....

"I shall return."

Don't Let The Cane Fool Ya

2009-12-30T13:00:00.001-08:00

Okay.....

I know that many of you have been

wondering about the state of my condition.

Do ya see the picture above?

That's pretty much EXACTLY what

I look like nowadays.

I have my cane,

my insanely big purse

(because I can't hold cane, and purse, and cell phone, and umbrella anymore...)

my shoes, jacket and hat.

Subtract the hump in the back and I look

Just

That.

My leg is so weak

that it has a tendency to give out on me,

especially if I have to walk a good distance.

So was the case today.

I went to the grocery store to pick up a few items

for dinner.

It was pouring rain.

I got beat out by every little old lady

in this town for a grocery carryout.

Some of...no....

MOST OF

them walked better than me.

Anywhoo...

I wheeled my own shopping cart outside...hobbling.

Insert teenage thug....

Black hair, skinny jeans and tattoo on the neck..

Got the picture?

Said thug runs up to me and offers

to carry my groceries to my car.

"No thank you.I got it."

"But you're limping...here, I'll help you."

"I limp everyday. I got it. No thank you."

This is where said thug makes

his biggest mistake.....

ever.

This boy tries to snatch my purse from the grocery cart

and take off running.

Yeah............

I don't think so.

I introduced said thug to.....

He was trying to run and I was steady

beating him like he stole something...

Oh wait!!!

He was stealing something!!!

My purse!!!

Continue beating with my cane and cursing.

He's now on the ground clinging to my purse

and I fall right on top of him.

I am giving him the butt whoopin'

that his mama

apparently never gave him.

A sacker runs over to help me

and the thug runs off...

without my purse.

Everyone runs over to help me...

Where were ya'll before?

They offer to call the police.

No need...

I got my purse..life is good.

I finally get my carry out for my groceries.

I'm soaking wet and a little sore

but I'm fine.

I ASSURE you that said thug

is tending to his whelps

even as I type.

My mama was killing herself laughing.

The Divine Mr. M

is a nervous wreck.

My mother-in-law

asked me if I was scared.

Me??

Scared??

I've raised a teenager

and have looked cancer in the face....

It would take alot more than

some little twit

to scare me.

I'm an ER nurse.

This is what I do.

Maybe he'll think reallll hard

before he tries to snatch a purse

from a little lady with a cane.

On another note:

I'm real slow moving these days

and my next stop was the post office to mail off all of my giveaways

but Mr. M was all wigged out

and asked me to stay home.

I promise you that everything will be mailed out next week.

I'm just moving a little slow now

and some days I don't move at all

but I'm getting back in the swing of things

and adjusting to my new way of doing things.

I hope that everyone has a

Happy New Year!!!!!!

Post it Note Tuesday

2009-12-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

I'm joining with Supah Mommy

in doing Post it Note Tuesday!!

Write what's on your mind to a post it note!!!

You can link back here.

Here's my thought for today.....

Have a great tuesday!!!!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Isaiah 7:14

As I prepare to spend the next six to seven hours

in my kitchen

and The Divine Mr. M checks off

the "honey do" list that I have for him

there is a feeling of Christmas in the air.

Through all of the hustle and panic

that the day brings,

there will be songs of praise and worship

throughout our home

reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Thousands of years ago,

a child was born

that would be the light of the world.

Our Lord and Saviour

sent to save mankind.

Let us not forget the joy of family and friends

and the love that is present on Christmas.

The kind of love that spreads from heart to heart

and from breast to breast.

Most importantly,

let us not forget that Christmas

is holy

and to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

Merry Christmas

from Six in One Hand!!!!

The Stockings Were Hung....

2009-12-21T12:05:00.000-08:00

On my bannister with great care...

I had wanted a specific garland to match the one

I had on my mantle.

I went back to Hob Lob....but no dice.

They were sold completely out.

I was bummed and kinda whined a bit.

Mr. M just sat on the couch and stared at me.

(That was probably a smart move on his part...saying anything at that point would have been suicide.)

So...when I was through with my temper tantrum

I decided to make do.

I had purchased some cheapo

plain green garland a while back

and decided to use it for my bannister.

But then...genius struck.

Okay, maybe idiot savant....

Anywhoo,

I decided that I wanted vintage baby shoes

to hang on my garland....

again.....

no go.

Couldn't find any white baby shoes anywhere.

Now, if I didn't WANT

white baby shoes...

they would be falling from the sky.

As luck would have it...

I wanted some and they were no where to be found.

So I decided to go with my next thought.

Baby booties.....

didn't happen.

Only blue ones....sigh.

On to plan "D"..

White baby socks.

They were gleaming white.

Blinding white.

Tea stain to the rescue.

It gave them a perfect aged look.

I hung them with some antiqued doll head clothespins.

But now my garland was lacking.

Those socks are small....

no...

change that......

they are "smoooooll."

So I happened to look over in my living room

and see some of my letters that I purchased

awhile back.

Some of the envelopes are very small and dainty

and are the perfect "yellow".

Ureka!!!!

They worked!!!

I tucked them in with some postcards

that were written by a son to his mother

about his life away from home.

Now, I had a theme.

I always try to have a theme, you know.

(It's good for the soul..)

I would build my garland with

a mother's love.

I added small stuffed bears and toys.

I added some paper mache ornaments

that I painted and distressed.

I draped the garland and added

some tea stained muslin bows that I made.

I could just imagine a mother displaying her

children's socks and toys to remind her

of when her children were small at Christmas.

I tied in bits and pieces of strips of fabric

to give it a punch of contrast.

In the end...

I LOVED IT!!!!

What a happy accident

that Hob Lob was sold out

because I would have never

had to put my thinking cap on

and come up with such a cute garland.

Even Shuga thought it was special.

(She's been sleeping on the steps ever since I put it up.)

As we grow closer to the fastly approaching holiday,

please remember to take time to reflect

on the meaning of Christmas.

Remember to love your family, friends and your brother man

as it was love that gave us this day.

The love that not a mother, but a Father, gave

to us so many years ago

that is still

alive and well today.

Merry Christmas

from

Six in One Hand!!!!!!!

Santa Baby,

2009-12-18T07:03:00.000-08:00

Santa Baby,

Slip a table under the tree...chippy.

Been an awful good girl, Santa baby,

so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa baby,

a really cute mantle too....

light blue.

I'll wait up for you dear.

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Think of all the shows I've missed.

Think of all the lovelies that I didn't get.

Next year I could be just as good

If you'll check off my Christmas list.

Santa baby, a vintage watch

and really that's not alot.

Been an angel all year.

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.

Santa honey, there's one thing I really do need...

The deed...

to Troy's Junk Exchange.

Santa, honey so hurry donw the chimney tonight.

Santa, cutie and fill my stocking

with tarnished silver

and fur.

and some crystals too.

Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight.

Come and trim my Christmas tree

with some shiny brite decorations for me.

I really do believe in you.

Let's see if you belive in me.

Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing..

the bling.

not the kind like on Flava Flav.

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight.,

Hurry down the chimney tonight...

Hurry.....

tonight.

We Have a Winner ...or two...or three..

2009-12-18T06:21:00.000-08:00

I know that I'm a little late with revealing

the winners

but I'm sure that ya'll will understand.

Besides, good things come to those who wait, right?

So, without further adieu.........

The winner of the Barnes and Noble gift card is....

Gypsy Nurse.

The winner of the Tyler Cande is.........

She Dreams Big.

and the winner of the surprise gift is.....

David!!!!!

Congratulations to all of the winners!!!

Please email me with your mailing info and

I will have it out to you ASAP!!!

Slumber Party....Here I Come!!!!

2009-12-18T06:01:00.000-08:00

I begged and pleaded

and whined and whined

and finally...

Mr. M said that I could come to

Debbie's Slumber Party!!!

My BFF and Fairy Blog Mama,

Debbie is celebrating her 100,000th visitor and

invited her gal pals over for a sleepover!!!

She's even giving away party favors...check her out!

He didn't think I was well enough to go.

I told him I was too.

After all, we're just gonna be sitting around

painting our toenails

and

doing our hair.

Whatever!!!!!!

I'm ready to PARTAAAYYY!!!!!!

I brought enough ice, thread and brand new needles

to pierce everyone's ears.

I think Misty is sneakin' in some booze to

go with that hot Dr. Pepper.

I'll take mine plain, thank you.

I dressed up my cane

and I have brand new jammies.

Deb from Common Ground showed ya'll hers...

so here's mine.

Aren't they the bee's knees??

They have skullies on them!!!!!

I am sooo excited to wear them for the party.

(Please forgive the stoner look...I still have some Ativan that is hanging on...like a pimple.)

Now, Robelyn I know that you will cheat for sure at Twister

so I'm playing with my cane in hand.

I know that Mindy will be sneaking in the bathroom with Misty

for a swig or two.

I will be doing breath checks, ladies!!!!

Anne, no sneakin in boys...even if it is Troy and Rob.

Adrienne, could you watch the door for us, if they do stop by?

I am soooo ready !!!

We are gonna hang out like loose teeth!!!!

Bring on the Dr. Pepper!!!!

I Bring You Glad Tidings.....

2009-12-17T09:43:00.000-08:00

Do you know what this is???

I'll give you a hint....

Can you make out the writing??

It started with "Happy"

That's right folks!!!!

It's my birthday cake.

The Divine Mr. M decided to surprise me with this

little piece of confection heaven

with over thirty candles on it

when I came home from shopping with Misty.

ALL THIRTYSOMETHING CANDLES...burning a warm fire.

He lit them when I pulled into the driveway.

The only problem was that

I didn't recognize him...

or my son....

or my inlaws...

or my house...

or anything around me.

I barely knew my name.

Mr. M said I had this look on my face he'd never seen before.

He said I was like a zombie..lights on....nobody home.

Scared him to death.

I had a bad headache....and amnesia.

He drove me to the ER

like he was winning the grand prize for Nascar.

That's when I looked at him and told him to slow

the f*^&% down.

He said I looked normal again.

He began asking me questions.

I thought he was crazy and I wanted to go home

and drink the champagne I had just bought for my cranberry spritzer

for my birthday.

Didn't happen.

I was seen and diagnosed with a T.I.A.

Transient Ischemic Attack...

baby stroke in layman's terms.

I finally got to go home since I had to go to Houston

the next morning for a MRI of my leg and see my doctor.

When we got home....thirty something candles had melted completely

over the cake.

(More like shellac...)

The whole top of the cake was ROCK HARD!!!

Mr. M, being as divine as he is, scraped some from the sides

and plopped it on a plate for me for my birthday.

(We did chuckle at this...it's okay...you can laugh too..)

The next morning, after my MRI of my leg, I see my doctor..

who's totally wigged out.

She sends me down the hall to another doctor.

Who's even more wigged out.

He calls my first doctor.

They agree that I should IMMEDIATELY

be put in the hospital.

I have lots of poking and stabbing..

Took lots or tries to get an IV

and I'm DYING of pain all the while.

I finally get pain meds and I'm a happy camper..

except my head feels weird...really weird.

I have an MRI of the brain...

with sedation.

I can't stand being in anything that small.

A big 'ol dose of Ativan

and I'm out like a Mike Tyson victim.

(They said they could hear me snoring from the MRI machine.)

When I awaken,

I'm back in my room and the neurologist sees me.

He tells me that I had

a TIA with

transient global amnesia.

I'm impressed.....

never heard THAT one before.

They think the lil' buddy in my leg

is possible from an auto immune disorder

that is causing vasculitis...

aka inflammation of the blood vessels.

They don't know what type of disorder that I have just yet

but they do know

that my tumor

Not

Cancer!!!!

WOOOOO HOOOOOOO!!!!!

Thank ya'll for all of your prayers and support.

You don't know how happy I am right now

(even though I have the "crazy head" and my leg hurts...)

I am crying as I type this but it's tears of joy.

I get to be on a blood thinner now

and continue the workup

but I asked to be release to see my youngest son for his birthday and they obliged.

I arrived home around 7 last nigh.

Mr. M drove home

(like he was qualifying for Nascar this time...)
and I got to give Daviss his birthday gift.

I'm still limping along and looking for a kewl cane.

I will post the winners this afternoon of the birthday giveaway.

( I sincerely apologize for not getting done yesterday)

I'm really tired and I'm gonna go take a nap

or The Divine Mr. M will kill me.

Thank all of ya'll soooo much!!!

My heart cannot tell you the joy and love that I have for

all of ya'll..

I have read your comments and encouragement over and over

(especially while I was in the hospital.)

You were always with me and in my thoughts.

My best friend even offered to bring his laptop

so that I could blog to you guys.

(He knows that's how much ya'll mean to me...)

I'm going to lay down now and have my cranberry spritzer

except this one is

with gingerale.

Eventually, I will finish my birthday.......

as soon as I feel better.