The Vintage Bag Lady

Crap Giveaway…..

2012-01-25T07:04:00.001-08:00

I wanted to have a little party to celebrate my 200 + followers and nearly 1000 posts. So it’s a GIVEAWAY! And no, I won’t be sending crap…..just a fun book, full of crap. I recently found this hilarious book. I just had to share the laughs with one of my wonderful fellow bloggers. Thanks for being there for me!

Some of you might even relate to this. I definitely feel for my daughter, when I am gone!

If you don’t have a blog please leave an email. Or email me through my profile.

You can check out the blog that started all this at… www.crapatmyparentshouse.com Enjoy your trip down memory lane.

If you can, leave me a comment about some ‘crap’ you will have to deal with or did.

P. S. I promise not to send any crap with this book! Giveaway ends on Sunday at 6pm PST.

Check out this party….

Smart Tips Tuesday

2012-01-24T05:17:00.001-08:00

Scarfs are all the rage and the new t shirt scarfs are a lot of fun and easy to make…and a great repurpose item. Check out this tutorial…. http://myblessedlife.net/2011/10/t-shirt-scarf-tutorial.html

Try this fun site, as well……http://www.scarves.net/blog/12-ways-to-tie-a-scarf

Here’s a fun video from UTube on scarf tying….have fun!

Cooped Up!

2012-01-23T07:32:00.001-08:00

I really never thought about the meaning behind this saying but I think my girls did…. They have been ‘cooped up’ for three days without a ‘walkabout’, and I could tell things might get nasty any time. We had about 8-10 inches of snow and it began to melt. A glimpse of the sun, melting snow…I just had to do it. I shoveled a path way around the coop and almost literally threw the girls out. Of course, I had to bribe them!

Sorry these pictures are so bad, I took them through the window. You didn’t think I was going to go out there, did you? This is in front of my garage and all they would walk on was the car tire tracks. I guess they thought those were made for them.

They did find a small patch of dirt but I think they’re gossiping about their owner….”why would she take us out of our warm and cozy coop, for this cold and miserable place”? Some days you just can’t win….

As you might guess the ladies were reluctant to go on home.

Super Simple Sundays

2012-01-22T03:29:00.001-08:00

Ya wanta’ come over to my place?

I’m Stuck….

2012-01-21T06:10:00.001-08:00

I’m not real sure what happened yesterday….but I actually started a project. Yeah, it’s hard to believe. I have been stuck in ‘got no motivation’ land for so long.

I’m guessing it has something to do with being snowbound. Being stuck….has unstuck me! I kinda’ like it.

I got some measurements off the old vinyl flooring, from my trailer and crocheted a little throw rug, out of old sheets. This one is only 20 by 20 inches, I plan to make one more, for in front of the bed, for ‘Driving Ms. Daisy’, my 1969 Shasta trailer.

I pick up sheets at the thrift stores and cut (tear) 1-1/2 inch strips and crochet them with a giant hook (the size of my index finger). Actually, you can do it with your fingers, if you want. Fast and easy.

Here’s an oval one I made for my kitchen several years ago.

Technorati Tags: crochet,rag rugs,oval,square,vintage trailer,sheets

Check out the party over at….

What On Earth!

2012-01-20T07:27:00.001-08:00

Wow, what happened here? Are you turning red, Dash?

You know I love you Mommie? Right?

Honest, I won’t drink out of your soup mug again! Give me a hug!

Dash and I want to thank all our sweet followers…..we hit 200 today…we are so thrilled and are sending out big hugs to all of you!

Thursday Thoughts

2012-01-19T05:44:00.001-08:00

Free Valentine Graphics

2012-01-18T07:22:00.001-08:00

I’ve been collecting vintage Valentine graphics for a few years and thought I would share some with you. Feel free to use them as you wish. You can even print them in sepia for a different look…I know you knew that….enjoy.

Cupid himself.

I can’t believe this Valentine saying! And what is with all the nude babies on Valentine cards?

Isn’t this adorable…you could use this for a lot of different cards for winter.

I love this one, such pretty colors and great design.

This is one of my favorites. A little more subtle then some

Thanks, http://www.graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/ and http://www.alteredartfun.blogspot.com/, and the internet, at random, for these images.

Technorati Tags: Valentines,vintage,free graphics,holiday

Check out these parties……

The Chicken Mansion….from the outside

2012-01-16T16:29:00.001-08:00

This is home to my girls, Eleanor Roosevelt, Amelia Earhart and Rosa Parks. They have free range, of approximately one acre of grass around my house. And I was amazed when I originally let them out for their ‘walkabout’, they stayed in the one acre area. I have a total of thirteen acres so they could have taken off…to parts unknown. Thanks heavens, they didn’t. (Nervous Mother Hen here.)

This is Amelia, she looks tough, acts tough….is tough….trying to give her love is a never ending, frustrating venture (but I keep trying). She flew the coop early on….that’s what pilots do! She totally lived up to the name I gave her.

I love this country, it looks dry and barren but it’s amazing what can be done in these parts. Why we are even getting known for our wonderful vineyards.

And here we have Rosa…on the left, and Eleanor. Both of these sweethearts are very affectionate. They stoop down and let me pet them, whenever we meet and I get to hold them….sometimes a few kisses are exchanged but you didn’t hear me say that!!

I do believe that saying….’This is God’s Country’…fits this place to a T! (Don’t we all think that?)

Me and My Friends….

2012-01-15T16:57:00.001-08:00

I had an opportunity to make a Birthday card for my dear friend, Sharon, this last week. I wanted to make a collage…always thought it would be fun….and it was. I had some gorgeous printed tissue paper (thanks, Gracie) and it layered so well. I threw in a few rough textures and she was done.

We celebrated her birthday on Sunday with a trip to Trader Joe’s (new store) right here in Spokane, WA. Lunch at a Bistro and then some thrifting. Can it get any better than that? Happy Birthday, sweet Sharon.

I only got an inside picture…but isn’t this store beautiful…look at those colors! I’m ready to go again….anyone want to join me?

I hear rumors of another store or two in this area and a possible distribution point. They said this was the biggest opening they have ever had…..How ‘bout that Spokane?

Super Simple Sundays

2012-01-15T04:14:00.001-08:00

I am on a journey….

with my work, my explorations,

and a few sad stories.

I travel with a suitcase full of outrageous blessings.

I am on a quest for truth, beauty and quiet joy.

I am an artist, a writer, an explorer.

(Author unknown)

A Vintage Love Affair…

2012-01-13T02:52:00.001-08:00

I have a love affair with old trucks. They just fascinate me. Every dent, every faded emblem, all the rust….well, it just does it for me. I am drawn to them like a magnet.

I spotted this baby, at our Greenbluff October Farm Fest.

Snoopy with goggles?

I found this partially burned out old truck relic, on a trip to Lake Kelso, Idaho in 2010.

This Mack was in Elk River, Idaho, when I was at Girl Camp with my vintage trailer last July.

And my most recent, just a few miles from home. I can feel the itch to add to my stash….maybe soon. I just love RUST….do you?

I’m linking up to these parties…..

On the Road Again….

2012-01-11T07:56:00.001-08:00

Oh, how I wish I was….I got these two sweet gifts for Christmas and all I can dream about is being on the road again! Get me out of here! Now I have nothing to whine about…we are having the mildest winter ever, but I miss my vintage trailer (Driving Ms. Daisy) and my glampin’ girl friends!

Technorati Tags: sisters on the fly,glampin',vintage trailer

Tuesday’s Thoughts

2012-01-10T02:02:00.001-08:00

I don’t think there is a thing that Mary Oliver writes that I don’t love….

Chicken Spouts

2012-01-09T07:16:00.001-08:00

I bought 30# of Mung Beans to sprout for my girls; Eleanor Roosevelt, Amelia Earhart, and Rosa Parks.

I was so excited when they were ready a few days later. I took some out and threw them out to the girls, while they were doing their walkabout. Not a lot available for them this time of year…so cold.

To my utter shock and dismay, they didn’t want them at all! What was I going to do with 30# of these?

I tried again two days later and put some raw oatmeal in with them….they ate them right up. Whew!

I love sprouts but couldn’t see eating 30# anytime in the near future.

Icy Fingers

2012-01-07T07:47:00.001-08:00

It was 55 degrees the other day….that was hard to believe this morning.

I ventured out to Fish Lake…..just needing a outdoor camera fix. (The coffee came very soon after. Burrrr)

Don’t these look like tadpoles?

A stunning lily pad under the ice.

This looks like a prehistoric frozen creature…..

I stepped into a strange and magical world….for just a short time. (I was only there a few minutes.) I felt like a visitor in a foreign land…..all just a few miles from home…..

Some Plans for 2012

2012-01-05T08:10:00.001-08:00

Some of you might know this isn’t me but it sure is how I feel….right now. I’ve been sick for over three weeks and I am darn tired of sitting around! So come along and take a little trip with me, to see some of my plans for this year…


I am planning to hit the road in my little vintage Shasta trailer, ‘Driving Ms. Daisy’ and see the sites…explore with fellow Sisters on the Fly. I have dates for several places all across Washington, throughout the summer.




My dog, Dash and I will spend some time in the great outdoors.


In between my trips, the alfalfa will be harvested (not by me..thank heavens). And I will be spending some time with my girls, Eleanor R., Amelia E. and Rosa P.


Maybe I will even add to my flock.


Speaking of adding to the flock…I will be a grandma for the second time in July, by my daughter!


Going to get some exercise…so I can get strong and slim.


Any way I can! (Well, almost.)




Maybe I will even get a new wardrobe….in a smaller size!


I’m going horse backpacking in the Fall. It’s an all girl trip in the high mountains in Idaho with eight to ten other gals. We’ll be sleeping in teepees on the ground! I have gotta’ get tough! I’ve only been on a horse twice in my life!


I’ll be doing a little canning….I love to do pickled stuff…dills, bread and butters, beans, and some jams.


I’ll try and not get carried away…I often still cook like I have a family at home!


I know it’s gonna’ be a great year….ya’all come back and see…thanks for stoppin’ by for a visit.

A New Dawn…a New Day..a New Year..

2012-01-01T07:53:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year ~ Have a wonderful and creative 2012!

More Favorites…The Top Four

2011-12-31T07:35:00.001-08:00

Here’s the top four Favorites for the year 2011….I hope you enjoy visiting these posts…have fun!

Sisters on the Fly on the Spokane River:

This was the Sisters on the Fly Halloween meet at Riverside State Park, here in Spokane, WA, last October.

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/10/sisters-on-fly-on-spokane-river.html

Refurbishing My Thrift Finds:

Number Three on the top ten list….

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/01/refurbishing-my-thrift-finds.html

The Chicken Mansion:

This is the Number Two Favorite with over 700 hits in 2011… I had a blast setting up a ‘lovely’ home for my girls, Eleanor Roosevelt, Amelia Earhart and Rosa Parks!

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/06/chicken-mansion.html

Moving Day at the Chicken Mansion:

This was Number One on the 2011 Top Favorites….with over 850 hits! My girls love their new home and I had a blast doing an all white shabby chic version of a chicken coop….now known as The Chicken Mansion…the little kid next door calls it the McMansion!

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/06/moving-day-at-chicken-mansion.html

I hope you all enjoyed your visit through 2011…wishing you all an incredible 2012 blogging year! Happy New Year!

I’ll be over at these parties:

Technorati Tags: Sisters on the Fly,Chickens,The Chicken Mansion,Refurbishing,Thift finds,Vintage Trailers,Frames,Country

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2011 Favorites….

2011-12-30T08:25:00.001-08:00

I thought I would take the opportunity to share some of my FAVORITE posts from 2011. I am a bit more organized today…so you can click on the titles and visit each post…if you like. Thanks for visiting.

Thriftin’ Time Tuesdays:

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/09/thriftin-time-tuesdays.html

Farm Chicks Weekend ~June 2011:

The long awaited Farm Chicks Weekend at Riverside State Park, Spokane, WA…my first time out with my ‘new’ trailer and meeting the Sisters on the Fly…

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/06/farm-chicks-weekend.html

The most favorite ‘Funky Fridays” post:

Lots of fun with rulers (not like the nuns at my Catholic school)…..stop by for a visit….if you dare…

http://cheneybaglady.blogspot.com/2011/11/funky-fridays.html

I’ll have the top four favorite posts, for you later in the week.

I’ll be linking up at these parties…..

Technorati Tags: sisters on the fly,vintage trailers,Spokane River,Riverside State Park,Spokane,Washington,yardsticks,rulers,trays,refurbish,thrift

Thriftin’ Time Tuesdays

2011-12-29T15:49:00.001-08:00

If you know me at all (from my blog) you know that when I saw this old wagon wheel, that it had to come home with me! She gave me such a good deal…I JUST HAD TO HAVE IT!

And a couple other things….the two large boxes up in the right hand corner and the cow skull on the feed container. The large box has writing on it in several places. I loved that funny name on the Joe Toe label. I just love old boxes, the scared and knotted wood patina, the faded writing…the old nails…a real treasure…my kind, anyway.

It was a fun day, filling the Chicken Mansion. More to come….I plan on a good cleaning and then some Christmas decorations for my girls….stay tuned!

I’m linking up to a few fun parties….

Favorite Posts.....

2011-12-28T08:55:00.001-08:00

I thought I would share a few of the favorite posts from 2011.....

I am still plugging away at my back porch, so today’s Tuesday tip is how to make a coat hanger, rack, thingie….lol
I started with an old piece of driftwood I found on the banks of the Spokane River (Washington) last fall. Reminds me of a whale. See his little eye right in front of the knot hole. ;)
I wanted to use old door knobs for my hangers/hooks. I had several different ones and in order to attach them, I was able to find some bolts that would fit the handles. This was not an easy task as each handle was different. It was a lot of time, spent in the hardware nut and bolt isle. Drill holes evenly spaced for each bolt, and (on the other side) I wanted a nice finish so I placed the plate cover (?) down over the bolt and screwed on the knob. Since I had four different ones, I varied the colors and styles.
I spray painted the plate covers in black so I would have a uniform look, as many were gold. I left the wood plain, sanded by the Spokane River. You could spray a clear coat of varnish on it, if you like.
The hardest part of this project was finding a way to attach these knobs, in many cases, these old knobs have a set screw in the side, that you can tighten. When you are unable to find a bolt to match the threads on the knob, this set screw is invaluable. These original sizes are no longer available, so if you start with a handle that has a set screw, you are much better off. You could use epoxy but I am all about reusing and repurposing, so I didn’t want to do that. You will find ideas for doing these knobs all over the internet, I am sure.

Stop by these parties....

Christmas 1952

2011-12-26T08:01:00.001-08:00

My brother Brian and I (Karen) holding our homemade lamb and horse, wearing our handmade robes……a super long time ago! (Brian died in 2002.) My Mom could make anything and did….including my Dad’s suits. We never called our parents by their first names, so I was surprised to notice the stockings.

My parents bought this house when I was one, in 1947 (I was told later that the house was at least 75 years old then) and if you look close you will see some very large design floral wallpaper in the background of this picture. I do love that Persian style carpet, though. Don’t I look like Princess Lea in that hairdo ?

This home was right in the heart of the University District (near the U of W) in Seattle. When I grew up it was a small tight family neighborhood where kids could walk and play anywhere….’as long as you are home by dinner’! The neighborhood consisted of a few small families, single older folks, a famous local artist and some college students. I look back on those times and really can’t believe the freedom we all had at those young ages. Never happen today!

What was your neighborhood like when you were little?

Technorati Tags: University District. U of W,Seattle,Washington,1950's

Dash Reporting here….

2011-12-25T11:10:00.001-08:00

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood and I just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas, on behalf of myself and my Mommie, Karen.

I hope you found lots of yummy bones under your tree and in your stockings!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-24T08:58:00.001-08:00

Have a peaceful, loving holiday with your family and friends!

Spreading the Love

2011-12-21T05:01:00.001-08:00

It’s that time of year when our hearts go out to all our family and friends, we even include our pets in the holiday festivities. And I know that many of you provide gifts and donations for the needy. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?

I just wanted to ask you all to try and include someone you know at work, a neighbor, a single mom or dad, anyone you know who might not have a place to go on the holiday. You may never know what that could mean to them. Drag them along to see your kids play, have them join in some family games or invite them to have dessert with you. We often think of the elderly when this comes up but be sure and seek out those young people who are not able to be with their families (for whatever reason), depression is a big concern this time of year (and so is suicide) ….try to share your holiday with someone who will be alone.

bbb

Oh, Christmas Tree….

2011-12-20T05:55:00.001-08:00

Yep, I finally got around to decorating the house. I just wasn’t up for doing the whole 7 foot tree this year so I decorated a single branch I found.

I know it’s kinda’ silly but I used old vintage kitchen gadgets to decorate it. The pinecones….they were attached…how fun is that?

A real down home Country tree…simple…so much easier than the full on big tree.

I’m linking up this party…..

Christmas in the Chicken Mansion

2011-12-19T07:10:00.001-08:00

The girls are thrilled that I finally got some decorating done for them.

Oh, my, that looks like a very pretty cocktail…nope…no, ‘cock in the walks’ allowed around here….maybe, just a little tiny eggnog to celebrate the holidays!

It’s all about my Queens, Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks and Amelia Earhart. Those beautiful ceramic ornaments are from my sweet blogging friend, Tammy (http://simplesouthernhappiness.blogspot.com/). I got the ‘cocktail’ at a recent Sisters on the Fly meet and the chicken is a wood ornament I finished recently.

These are the hens that Tammy made for me….one for each of my ladies! Sorry about the lousy picture…backlight…overhead lighting….yada yada…..

Merry Christmas to all of you!

I’m linking up to these parties…..

http://www.savvycityfarmer.com/

Technorati Tags: Sisters on the Fly,Chicken Mansion,Eleanor Roosevelt,Rosa Parks,Amelia Earhart,Christmas,ornaments

Super Simple Sundays

2011-12-18T06:29:00.001-08:00

Photos just don’t do justice to sunrises but I had to try…such crisp, clean strength and beauty!

This tree reminds me of lace dollies and frozen cobwebs. Waking up to this, being in the country….it just can’t get any better….ok, AND a cup of steaming hot coffee. (And, I think I want more farm animals….heaven help me!)

Something Special Saturday

2011-12-16T20:48:00.001-08:00

I’ve been a bit sick this week but today (after some caffeinated coffee) I got a bit of energy and starting messing around with table decorations.

I found this sweet metal frame at the thrift for a total of 50 cents! It’s about 5x6.

I picked up some old tinware at a thrift, used a little live greenery, some pinecones, added a candle….instant centerpiece. I love how simple and easy it was…don’t you love the pattern on that loaf pan? Now that is vintage!

I got this last idea from Donna over at Funky Junk Interiors…she has the most fun ideas….check her out!

Happy Fingers

2011-12-15T06:53:00.001-08:00

I’ve been filling my etsy shop with all kinds of goodness. The yellows are not lasting long…guess everyone is ready for a dose of sunshine this time of year. I linked up over at…..

Super Simple Sundays

2011-12-11T04:50:00.001-08:00

A rare patch of sun and the girls decided to sun bathe!

They found a new place to roust, just outside the garage on a small table.

December Swap

2011-12-10T13:57:00.001-08:00

My dear friend, Sharon and I got together to make our Mary Jane’s Farmgirl swap card for the month of December. Sharon suggested we make Christmas tree ornaments with some little wood cutouts, so we tried something different this time.

I just love ‘working’ with Sharon, in her studio, as she has years and years of accumulation of crafting supplies. (That’s not the only reason!) You name it, she’s got it. It lets me creative some really fun and unusual items…so things sure turn out better than they normally would. The above little bell is a broach.

And I just had to get some little wood chickens to decorate. This one looks like an antelope with that ribbon up top. I just added some paper and a bow…

Ok, I know this is weird, but I think the girls will like this on their tree in the Chicken Mansion. A crown and an apron…perfect for my ladies!

Look at this cute little collar, Sharon made for Dash! He is going to look so Dashing…..sorry, about that…I just had to do that! Thanks, Sharon!

See you over at these parties…..

More Christmas Graphics

2011-12-09T07:43:00.001-08:00

This is one of my all time favorites. I hope you can use the graphics for gift tags, cards, banners, ornaments, or Christmas decorations. Have fun!

I am off to my friend, Sharon’s to do some crafting….yep, tags and a card for my MaryJane Farmgirls card swap….enjoy your weekend.

So cold…..

2011-12-08T10:38:00.001-08:00

It truly is a harsh day (20 degrees), everything is very frosty and it’s foggy. I had to try for some pictures…not a lot of detail..need a stronger camera….one of these days.

My rose bush still has some color…and those thorns are such a pretty pink.

See the tender bud….still green…not ready to die.

Three Plus….

2011-12-07T05:42:00.001-08:00

My daughter; Tracy, grandson; Grayson and son (in law) Malachi….my favorite people, got some photos done this weekend by my other grandson’s Mom; Rita. Didn’t she do a great job?

My ‘little man’ sure doesn’t look two and a half! There was some bribery going on….quarters for smiles! Totally worth it!

Thriftin’ Time Tuesdays

2011-12-06T06:16:00.001-08:00

If you know me at all (from my blog) you know that when I saw this old wagon wheel, that it had to come home with me! She gave me such a good deal…I JUST HAD TO HAVE IT!

It was a fun day, filling the Chicken Mansion. More to come….I plan on a good cleaning and then some Christmas decorations for my girls….stay tuned!

I’m linking up to a few fun parties….

Monday Musings

2011-12-05T10:31:00.001-08:00

My Christmas list:

Share the Simple things

Love

Hugs

Time

All of You

A Mini Break….

2011-12-03T09:58:00.001-08:00

I am in the mood to snuggle up with my dog, Dash, on the sofa and make dishcloths….forget the decorating! The house cleaning…..

I just don’t ‘feel’ the energy needed for all the other stuff. When I make dishcloths, my hands are busy and my mind can just go blank! (No snide remarks allowed!) Sometimes it’s a great place to go!

My Baby Boy….

2011-11-29T07:21:00.001-08:00

Dash was hanging out with his ‘Big Dog’ and I just couldn’t help taking a few pictures to share with you.

He’s a Bichon Frieze, six years old and the love of my life! Can you see why?

Happy Crafting….

2011-11-27T11:25:00.001-08:00

I found some more fun graphics…these would make excellent Christmas tags!

I linked up to this party….

Vintage Christmas

2011-11-25T06:45:00.001-08:00

I thought I would share a few vintage graphics with you. I love to create cards and Christmas ornaments from these and thought some of you might like to use them, too., 2

010

Vi

I’ve been collecting these vintage graphics for sometime now. Hope you find something you like.

Please feel free to copy these and if you want to see more just holler! I have tons.

Blessings to You and Yours

2011-11-23T07:47:00.001-08:00

Have a wonderful celebration with your family and friends this week!

Thriftin’ Time Tuesdays

2011-11-22T07:00:00.001-08:00

Yep, I hit the galvanized bucket bonanza again. You know how much I love my galvanized…..by now. Ha! I got these two, while I was in Prosser, WA, recently.

Check out those cool rusty horseshoes….I see lots of potential there!

You horse lovers know what this is…..all of this ‘junk’ was $3.00….Not the tool box…I got that awhile back for $4.00, with a few old tools inside.

Love this old bucket…it went to work right away, hauling birdseed out to my feeders. Hard to keep them full this time of year.

The little trough went out to the Chicken Mansion and now holds grit for my girls. They are having trouble finding it in the snow. I let them out for a ‘walk about’ today, they don’t really like it but it’s good for them!

I am linking up to this party……

Look what I won…..

2011-11-20T19:22:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago I won a giveaway, over at my dear blogging friend RosaMaria’s. http://lavidacompartida.blogspot.com/ I was so excited to receive this lovely twine! Isn’t it a fabulous color? Perfect for all my natural look crafts!

RosaMaria is such a talented quilter and look at the paper crafts she makes. So cute. She lives near Guadalajara, Mexico and I just love visiting her blog, to see her fabulous photography and to reminisce over my many visits to her country. She also has an adorable etsy shop….check it out if you have a minute.

Super Simple Sundays

2011-11-20T08:06:00.001-08:00

Beauty is fleeting. In a moment, it is gone. At the end of your life, you won’t wish you had worked an hour longer every day. And, you won’t be able to retrieve the beautiful moments that came and went…that came and left without you.

Snow White

2011-11-19T07:54:00.001-08:00

We got our first decent snow and the light was just fantastic for photo taking. My friend, Tammy over at http://simplesouthernhappiness.blogspot.com/….. asked me to take some photos of my girls in their first snow…

All they wanted to do was hide behind my old railroad sign.

Let’s just head over here….where there isn’t any of that white stuff…..(sorry, Amelia)…..

If you look closely you will see them trying to get back in the front door.

Rosa won’t put her foot down.

Mommie has no problem…in her new boots from last Christmas!

It looks like they’re hatching the ‘Snow White Dance’…not like that Rosa….like this!

Soooo cold!!!

They never did venture out very far…just enough to find dry land. Earlier in the day they wouldn’t even come out of the coop….some progress.

I hate the cold myself but did enjoy the beautiful views.

Fun Fridays

2011-11-18T08:04:00.001-08:00

It’s snowing! So I just had to share some snow pets!

Have a great weekend and stay warm!

(black )@ White Wednesdays

2011-11-16T06:51:00.001-08:00

The first three pictures have things in common….can you see them?

http://www.lylaandblu.com/

And these last two?

Enjoy your Wednesday!

Wild Country

2011-11-14T01:51:00.001-08:00

I got to visit the wild west this weekend….I took a two hour drive down to Prosser, WA to visit some of my dear friends; Sisters on the Fly and some Maryjane Farmgirls. It was a wonderful break. It snowed lightly on Saturday morning, before I left…just a skiff but as I went South, it warmed up and the sun even came out.

We just did a bit of thrifting, lots of gabbing and even some future vintage trailer, camping trip…planning. I have already scheduled three trips for next spring and summer! Yeah!

The donkey above is my friend, Linda’s cutie pie. He is going to be in a local TV commercial soon. A real live movie star!

Blessings…

2011-11-11T06:32:00.001-08:00

I just can’t thank you all enough, for you sweet words of encouragement. I am overwhelmed by their lovely sentiments and suggestions. I definitely have some reading to do. Bless you all and thanks again for being there for me.

My Stuff….

2011-11-10T07:19:00.001-08:00

I’ve been in a mood for some weeks now….a kind of funk. Knowing I have inner work to do and doing everything I can to fight it off. It’s a place I’d rather not go…

It seems so pervasive, it sneaks into every part of my being.

It’s that many layered onion syndrome…

It seems like below each peeled layer, there is a more bruised and battered layer….a never ending cycle.

What I want to find is a soft and beautiful layer.

A safe and comfortable place….

There are so many roads, many twists and turns… I keep trying them. They aren’t the answer, I know I have to go to my core…the very center…the hardest path. I know in the end it will be worth it but just now….

I took some photos today, played with composition and posted them, in random order. I started writing under the photos and suddenly realized my feelings fit the photos. I just felt a need to express my inner feelings….I hope you can bare with me on this post.

Drink Up….

2011-11-09T06:51:00.001-08:00

I found this on Stumble Upon and just had to share all this great info…enjoy your cup of joe today!

Monday Musings

2011-11-07T06:46:00.001-08:00

I know I have three chickens but Sunday morning this is what I found in the Chicken Mansion…..

Amazing….it looks like Eleanor is trying to catch up to her sisters, she got a late start. The fourth egg has a very delicate thin shell, it’s the one on the lower right. Keep them coming, girls!

Enjoying a Patch of Sun

2011-11-06T05:44:00.001-08:00

My girls do a ‘walk about’ every day, when I am home. It has been very cold and dark most days….but oh, how they love to huddle up in the sun. Eating all those bugs in the yard, it’s a lot of work, a girl needs a break…and one in the sun…can’t get any better than that!

(Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks and Eleanor Roosevelt)

Super Simple Saturdays

2011-11-05T03:27:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to share some of the beautiful pictures I found at http://www.lylaandblu.com/ These are some of my favorites….and I hope I left you with a smile…

Funky Fridays

2011-11-03T17:55:00.001-07:00

I picked up this half bucket at a local thrift store, added some graphics to it…..

…and some old wallpaper. I think my girls might like this in the Chicken Mansion. I am sure I can find lots of uses for it.

I have also been collecting yardsticks for quite some time. I had planned to use them on the edge of my work bench but after visiting http://mamiejanes.blogspot.com/2011/09/yardstick-tray.html I just had to make a tray like hers… Yes, I copied her, in a slightly different way. She was able to use many of the old style yardstick…they had a fabulous patina…I may end up staining these.

I just had to make another one and added handles to this one.

It was fun using rulers from this area and choosing where to place them.

I’m linking up to these parties…..

Call Me!

2011-11-03T05:11:00.001-07:00

You are gonna’ love this….

http://www.wheresmycellphone.com/

Yep, you can go to this website and they will call your cellphone for free…it will ring until you find it! How smart is that. This is perfect if you don’t have a land line. Now if they could just do this for my car in the parking lot at WM!

Some Things Just Really Aren’t That Important…

2011-11-02T07:55:00.001-07:00

Doesn’t it seem like there is so much to do…or is it just the time of year? Is it a busier than usual or is it the desperation to have everything done, before the first snow? Did I just leave everything ‘til the last minute? I don’t think so…I think I plan ahead, I make notes, coordinate my time, my activities and my work…at least I think I do….then where does the time go and why does it seem like I left everything ‘til last….

I shouldn’t really feel any pressure about anything….right?

If I do anything I set my mind to (be a sort of Wonder Woman)….all my work would be done…if by magic, I have more important things to do…like ride a horse…up into the wilderness (ever notice the word wild in that?), or face a demon in the eye (sit in front of that ornery computer), take my vintage lady (trailer) for a drive in the country….glampin’ or smile the day I am ‘treated’ not ‘tricked’, (Halloween) to learn that I will be a Grandma…once again! Only then to realize I just became mush….it’s a simple word really, inert, content, blessed, joyous…all of these things…I am most of all happy! Bless my kids and their kids! Thank you, Lord! One of the things I love the most….being a Grandma….Grandma K, as my dearest little man…calls me. All the rest…doesn’t matter.

Some days I am just contented….

Monday Musings

2011-10-31T07:41:00.001-07:00

My hands are always busy…my heart is sure and steady. May your Monday be sensational, as mine…. will be!

Happy Halloween!

Big Red

2011-10-29T07:52:00.001-07:00

I spotted this truck a few days ago on my way to town….didn’t have my camera….I couldn’t get over that tree, matching the truck. So I made sure I packed my camera this time. I am sure all the people driving by thought I was weird (pulling over to take a picture of the woods) but I think I got some good shots. You be the judge.

Letting Go…..

2011-10-28T06:03:00.001-07:00

I hated to do it…I put it off all week but it had to be done. It made me sad ….even though it was a beautiful day (my mood is weather dependent). I had to put ‘Driving Ms. Daisy’ in storage. I will miss seeing her cute little bod, right outside my window….all winter. But I know she will be safe from any snow loads, heavy winds and rain, so I will adjust.

There was just not enough time this summer to get her exterior work done….I was just getting started when it got cold. I was able to remove some of her metal edging and re putty under them, polish them and put them back on. I didn’t get done but polishing the aluminum strips really spiffed her up….can’t wait to do it all this Spring. I have debated about painting and decided to leave the basic body off white and just do the stripe…..in a medium teal green. Having to store her this winter is costing a pretty penny, so she is going to have to wear her old dress…all polished up.

Can you tell where I polished a little, on the bottom right of the window frame? I also removed the emblem and the # and polished them. The lower outside metal strip has new putty and a bit of polish.

Maybe the outside will go better with the interior, come Spring.

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

2011-10-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

The sun just peaked out for a bit this morning and I just had to grab my camera. I was in town, had a few minutes to spare and decided to take advantage of the tall canopy of leaves, above my head.

It turned really cold, quickly and all the leaves just dropped overnight. What a lovely dance!

The beauty below my feet…

Mother Nature just kept turning her best side for me to capture…it was truly easy.

Enjoy Fall…it’s going fast.

I am linking up at…..

Winterizing for My Girls

2011-10-26T06:00:00.001-07:00

It got so cold Monday night, I found an inch of ice on the girl’s water bucket! It was the first night I placed a heat lamp in the Chicken Mansion. So when the sun came out yesterday, the girls loved doing their walkabout, while I worked on their run.

My dear friend, Lori, provided some slightly used metal siding, so I promptly made a little shelter for the girls. (Thanks so much, Lori!) We get a lot of snow here in the winter, so I added the wall and small roof area, so the girls can still roam around outside. They will have a little protection from the severe cold winter winds too. After all, my girls deserve the best….right? LOVE THOSE EGGS!

I also noticed a large gap under their exterior door, so I found some door stop material and cut a piece to keep the cold air out. (It’s that little white piece on the stoop.)

I just can’t tell you how much I enjoy having chickens….. Are they a lot of work? Yes, and no. Yes, to getting everything set up (if you’re building it), no, to the daily maintenance. However, check with me when I have to go out there this winter! I may have a change of attitude! It gets well below freezing here and with a wind chill factor….well, you just don’t want to be around here….to hear me whine!

The Egg and I…

2011-10-24T06:16:00.001-07:00

I am thoroughly stunned at the size of Amelia’s double yolk eggs…I actually feel sorry for her…those big ones must hurt…she does this about once a week! The dark brown (large) egg belongs to Rosa and the light brown one is Eleanor’s. I love being able to see clearly what each is producing, when I get more chickens (what you say!) I won’t know any more…unless I get the ones that produce pastel eggs…..hummmmm…

Amelia’s egg even has a different texture….

I just had to share this sunrise with you….as it gets colder…they just get better.

Etsy Link Party

2011-10-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Super Simple Sundays

2011-10-23T07:57:00.001-07:00

Life doesn’t get any better than this!!!

I Think These Will Fit…

2011-10-22T08:27:00.001-07:00

Thank you all, for your kind words of encouragement. I don’t know how I ever managed, before I met my blogging friends! I have a running start!

Looking for My Wings

2011-10-21T05:13:00.001-07:00

I’ve spent a great deal of time, this year, looking for my wings…. these wings….

The wings on a vintage Shasta trailer are a very hot item. They came in various sizes and some years there were none. My trailer had them…the caulk filled holes are still there. Mine were smaller and were mounted with three screws, probably about 27” by 7”. I have looked into getting them made but they would cost quite a lot….not to say that the ones I have seen on Ebay, weren’t! Of course, I prefer the originals for my 1969 Shasta 1400, Driving Ms. Daisy, so I will keep looking…maybe, I will get lucky.

I am also looking for another set of wings….

I have been struggling with letting go of some inner trauma and this particular quote from Mary Oliver (My favorite new poetess), really inspires me to carry on….there is a sunny, beautiful, spunky me just waiting to fly!

Technorati Tags: vintage,trailers,Shasta,wings,1969,Shasta 1400

Wednesday’s Wisdom

2011-10-19T07:27:00.001-07:00

Smart Tips Tuesdays

2011-10-18T07:15:00.001-07:00

Clever, cute, so simple.

I just love red.

And White!

I want one!

Simple and effective!

Convenient storage….cover an oatmeal container.

Holiday decorating?

A little Halloween smile for you.

Source: Pinterest

Technorati Tags: Smart Tips,DIY. Halloween,lighting,vases,hair bows,coat rack

Sisters on the Fly on the Spokane River

2011-10-17T07:12:00.001-07:00

When you combine, perfect Autumn days, a group of Sisters on the Fly and Halloween….what do you get? A whole ton of fun….as in the SOTF motto..”We have more fun than anyone!” And that we did…

We all camped in our vintage trailers on the Spokane River at Riverside State Park in Washington state. It was overcast and it rained on Friday night but the next two days were beautiful, though very cold at night.

Just after I arrived with two other sisters, this adorable vintage Shasta arrived, towed by Cory…who as it turns out, follows my blog! She saw me walking down the road with my dog Dash and she hollowed out….I know you (actually she recognized my dog)! It was totally fun getting to know her and enjoying her two adorable dogs. This was her first outing and she did just fabulous. I believe this is a ‘66.

I just love this color combo…with a matching rig! Francine did a super job of decorating too…

I think she likes Halloween!

She’s even got the original icebox.

Nancy from Coulee Dam, had this adorable canned ham, with all the natural wood interior…just yummy!

The attention to deal was amazing!

Check out that corner cabinet!

Cowgirl Cute!

The door!

Yep, that’s me..Driving Ms Daisy…dressed for Halloween.

Here’s Linda modeling some square dance skirts that were donated to the sisters. And here’s her Little Loafer trailer…

This land yacht is a Kenskill owned by Tammy…with a fresh coat of paint and a totally vintage wood interior.

This is Vicki with her Desert Daisy…we like the same colors.

Look at the original stove, sink and countertops!!! Love that color!

Connie had a wonderful setup and a darling interior.

And her friend, Ann Marie (her first time out, too) had the twin of my trailer! First one I have seen. She did a fabulous job on the interior…a beautiful salon.

This newbie came flying in on Saturday afternoon and stopped and introduced herself…Karen with a Bichon too….same names and same dogs! I love her back porch and the fact that she drove in with the wind chime still intact, hanging on the top of her trailer!

Our fearless hostess in costume for our Saturday night potluck (with more food than you would believe). Thanks for coordinating such a wonderful weekend, Grace!

Here’s Nancy stepping back in time, as a hippie or is that a love child?

Here’s Linda and Nancy of Prosser, showing off their new square dance skirts!

That’s about it…there is a picture of me in rollers, a mud pack and an apron out there somewhere in cyber space…send it on, if you see it! I don’t want any evidence!

Dash was sulking on a square dance skirt…..I think he wanted to join the Halloween party, too. He’s really glad to be home again with HIS ‘sisters’ (the chickens).

You will find me linked here:

Technorati Tags: sisters on the Fly,vintage,trailers,Halloween

I’m Retiring, to this….

2011-10-14T05:57:00.001-07:00

Yep, I’m retiring this weekend! What! you say, I thought you were already retired….well, ok, I am but I am retiring to Riverside State Park on the Spokane River this weekend. Now it may not look like this retirement home for vintage trailers (with a pool ..no less) but I can tell you it will be even more fun with all my ‘Sisters on the Fly’ and their vintage trailers…. For they will all be decked out in Halloween regalia! (Amongst the pine trees, right on the river!) Come rain or shine! Yes, rain is forecast but that can’t stop a few determined sisters! It will be our last camping trip of the year….so we will do it right! After all, isn’t there a merit badge for Halloween Camping? Doing it in right? There will be tricks and treats (some of these may be of the adult variety), decorations, bright lights, scary goblins and maybe even some costumes!

So you won’t hear from me this weekend but I will provide the evidence…opps, I mean pictures of our fun weekend on Monday. Eat your hearts out! Unless it rains, then you can say…. Oh, and BTW, it is suppose to get down to freezing….heehee.

Technorati Tags: vintage trailers. Sisters on the Fly,Halloween,camping,retirement

Halloween Graphics

2011-10-13T06:02:00.001-07:00

I’m not sure why I suddenly started collecting Halloween graphics but I did… and so I am here to share them.

Some of these are quite old.

I can’t get over the shadows….what sinister hands! That nasty wicked witch of the West!

This one? Not so nasty!

This has so many uses…great background for some cards or just plop it into a frame….cut out the graphics and use them to decorate trick or treat bags, name tags, etc.

I think this is my favorite..love her dress!

Happy Halloween to all of you!

Another Rainy Day…

2011-10-12T08:44:00.001-07:00

I belong to a monthly card swap over at MaryJane’s Farm Connection and my dear friend, Sharon and I were planning to meet on Monday but unfortunately, she was sick. So I was on my own….I even got to recycle some garbage….lol…yep, that corn stalk on the right….the husk is from an ear of corn!

Since I was on a roll, I made a few other cards and tags. I love having them on hand when I need them….and there is nothing better than a handmade gift/card.

And I loved using my new vintage paper cutter! A bargain I found this summer, while on a glampin’ trip in Idaho, with my vintage (1969) Shasta 1400.

Thanks for stopping by for a visit…I just want to tell you all how much it means to me, to have such wonderful blogging friends!!! ;)

Smart Tips Tuesdays

2011-10-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

I have wondered how to clean out my dishwasher for sometime and came across this tip on Pinterest and I just had to share it with you.

"Steps to giving your dishwasher a tune up and possibly even stopping a leak:
1: Clean out the filter on the bottom of the dishwasher. I wore gloves for this. *gag* The cover should come off pretty easily with the removal of a screw or just a little leverage of a butter knife. *Caution: Don't force it. It will be pretty easy if it's meant to come off .Clean everything out well and replace cover.
2: Check all of the holes where water sprays out. Water is usually recycled from the bottom so food and even soap granules can clog the holes. I even found a shard of glass from a cup that broke a few months back. I used a skewer to clear the holes out.

3: Clean out the steam vent on the door. Once again, gloves. *gag* I was SHOCKED how dirty this was and I am fairly certain that this is what was causing the leak. It was full of gunk and wasn't allowing water to drain off properly. Thus, the leak. The cover on the inside of the door should be easy to remove with a butter knife. *Caution: Don't force it. It will be pretty easy if it's meant to come off. Clean it out. Replace cover.

4: Last step. This one is easy. Run the EMPTY dishwasher with a 1/2 cup of CLR cleaner. (found with the cleaning supplies) This helps to remove anything you missed in steps 1-3. And just to be safe, run again to be sure all the cleaner is gone.

That's it! Easy, takes about 15 minutes, and you will be amazed at the difference. No more leaking! :)"

(Karen here) I am not one to use harsh chemicals, so instead of the CLR, I would just use vinegar.

Vinegar is a great cleaner, I use it for everything. Straight vinegar disinfects, mixed with baking soda makes a great drain cleaner, or thin vinegar with water to clean windows, counter tops and floors. It also eats hard water stains....just soak the item in a full strength solution. And last but not least I use it as my rinse cycle in the dishwasher....hey, it's great in the washing machine too. Run a cycle with vinegar in that one and you will do a tuneup on your washer, as well.

Source: http://thequickandthehungry.blogspot.com/2011/08/diy-dishwasher-tune-up.htmlhttp://

Super Simple Sundays

2011-10-09T10:14:00.001-07:00

A Little of This and a Little of That….

2011-10-06T14:09:00.001-07:00

The very last Hollyhock…..

We’ve had rain for three days but it looks like some little fellas are still at work.

My orchid just started to bloom again, so I have a flower inside! Yeah!

Please bare with me as I play with this…..

Is that wild or what? (Upside down.)

Here’s what’s blooming in the Chicken Mansion…..huge eggs…Amelia is producing about two double yolk eggs a week!!! My three girls produce three eggs a day…sure hope that keeps up. I will be keeping the light on……for those!

Smart Tips Tuesdays

2011-10-04T07:28:00.001-07:00

After months and months of hassles with my blog, commenting on others and just plain frustration…I changed my browser from Internet Explorer to Firefox….. Low and behold, my problems went away! Just like that! Many of the problems, I was blaming on blogger (Google) were not theirs…but Internet Explorer’s! I was stunned but totally thrilled. Such a simple fix and FREE.

If you are still having trouble signing into others blogs or commenting, etc.….try changing to Firefox or Chrome…. Here’s the site for Firefox… http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/fx/ and here is Chrome’s….http://www.google.com/chrome?&brand=CHMA&utm_campaign=en&utm_source=en-ha-na-us-bk&utm_medium=ha

Try one of these and maybe you will enjoy blogging a bit more…less frustration, more fun!