Curds and Whey

New items on the TDIPT Mercantile!

2012-01-31T16:51:00.004-06:00

Spring is just around the corner

(although we haven't had much of a winter here in the midwest)

and I'm in the mood for fun!

I have a few new items available on the TDIPT Mercantile,

so please take a look and get in touch if anything suits your fancy ♥

Peter Rabbit Cupboard Hanger

Heart-shaped base Nesting Bird Pinkeep

Round-based Nesting Bird Pinkeep

The Significance of the Flag Draped Coffin

2012-01-09T11:43:00.000-06:00

As our troops return home from Iran, I thought back to those who have fought valiantly for our freedoms and even given their life so we could live as a free nation.

American flags have been draped over military veterans' coffins since the Napoleonic Wars in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The custom is rich with tradition and requires a certain protocol. Our founding fathers used God's Word and His teachings to establish our great nation and maybe it's time to have a refresher course in the basics of our Nation's history.

I'm a proud American and have the utmost respect for those that serve to protect our 'God Given' rights and freedoms. Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers.

Did you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?

Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but as you read on, you might be very surprised and enlightened:

The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, 'Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.'

The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that they pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America , and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their Nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.

There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning.

In the future, you'll see flags folded and remember why we Americans love our symbol of ' Liberty and Freedom.

A new day has dawned with a fresh start

2012-01-01T12:42:00.000-06:00

As I look forward to a new year, dear Lord, please give me…

A few friends who understand me and remain my friends;

A work to do which has real value, without which the world would be the poorer;

A mind unafraid to travel, even though the trail be not blazed;

An understanding heart;

A sense of humor;

Time for quiet, silent meditation;

A feeling of the presence of God;

The patience to wait for the coming of these things,

With the wisdom to recognize them when they come.

Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T06:07:00.001-06:00

Every year, a custom carries on that was started by my dear Mother-in-Law years ago: we wake on Thanksgiving morning and flip on CBS to watch the Macy's Day parade
as we busy ourselves in the kitchen, preparing a family feast.
Several years ago, I was half watching The Morning Show with Harry Smith,
who narrated a segment with Anne Graham.

Anne read a prayer from her father, the Reverend Billy Graham.
I couldn't believe what I was hearing on television...
it moved me to the very core of everything I believe,
and I wanted to share it here with you again this year.

Each year, I come back to this post and each year,
it's as poignant and real for me as ever it was.... it goes like this:

“Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance.

We know Your Word says, ‘Woe to those who call evil good,’ but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.

We have killed our unborn and called it choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem.

We have abused power and called it politics.

We have coveted our neighbor’s possessions and called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography
and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers
and called it enlightenment.

Search us, oh God, and know our hearts today;

cleanse us from every sin and set us free.

Amen.”

As families gather for the holiday,
please remember there is no reason to have a holiday called Thanksgiving
unless there is Someone to thank.

Thanks be to God and Jesus Christ His Son for all the blessings on our fair land.

It's 3 Generations

2011-11-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

of awesomeness! :)

These boys are ready to come home with you.

I love the graduation in size from the baby boy to big daddy!

All 3 are available for $60 + shipping.

Something exciting is coming to the Merc!

2011-10-19T15:49:00.003-05:00

We hope you'll join us on TDIPT Mercantile
in celebrating the holiday season.

We'll kick it off with our annual Open House,
which means lovely holiday handmades
on the Merc and of course our fantastic
giveaway beginning November 1st!

Stay tuned to the Merc ...
you wont want to miss a chance of winning
one of the amazing donations from the talented

TDIPT Artisans!

New to the TDIPT Mercantile

2011-10-01T09:06:00.000-05:00

It's time for an upload and I've got a couple of pieces I'm lovin... and just in time for the holidays too!

Come over to THE MERC and check it out ... there are photos galore with details on both!

REFLECTIONS....

2011-09-09T16:14:00.002-05:00

As we take time to reflect on the 10th Anniversary of a day that none of us will ever forget, let us come together to grieve, to remember, to express our gratitude to those who demonstrated what it is to be a hero, and pledge ourselves to live in honor of their bravery.

WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

Aren't Ghosts supposed to be scary?

2011-08-29T16:03:00.000-05:00

We are fast approaching my favorite decorating time of year -

I love all of the sights and smells that come with Autumn.

I've got a new creation just in time for the TDIPT Mercantile

and call this one "Lil Boo"

She's a real gem that comes with interchangeable decor,

including a pumpkin, crow and ghost to hold in her hands for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Fall!

I hope you will make plans to stop by the Merc on Wednesday night!

I know Lil Boo will be looking for you,

along with some amazing creations from the other talented artists of TDIPT!

On the Mercantile...

2011-08-01T06:59:00.000-05:00

For the August release on the TDIPT Mercantile, I have created an awesome Olde Tavern Owl. He is mounted on a perfectly grungy old wooden bobbin and stands 19" tall. This is a perfect piece for any fall tabletop or sidebar and will beckon you to draw nigh :)

Sometimes....

2011-07-14T08:31:00.000-05:00

A picture is worth a thousand words ...

draw your own conclusions!

There is always hope....

2011-07-05T20:40:00.002-05:00

On my way to work this morning, I noticed a lemonade stand that was being set up by 3 little girls in the neighborhood.

As I returned home at noon, the girls were sitting in the sun offering refreshment to passer-bys.

I was taking my husband for a follow-up visit to the doctor and coming home, the girls were resting in the shade under their table from the heat of the afternoon.

Darrell and I stopped and although we didnt want a beverage, we wanted to support their efforts. We gave them a bit of money for their persistence and they politely thanked us for the gift.

I asked them how much they'd made that day, and their faces beamed as they exclaimed "almost $15!" I asked what they were going to do with their loot (half expecting to hear about a trip to the toy store - a response you would expect from 8 yr olds) but no... they said they were donating all their money to the animal shelter to help prevent cruelty to animals.

Our hearts stopped beating for a second and at that, Darrell dug a little deeper in his wallet.

Funny how things like that will leave a mark on your heart. If those were my girls, I would be so proud of them!

And if they are out there tomorrow, I'm asking if I can take their photo to remember this act of kindness ♥ .

Camp Quality 2011

2011-06-26T00:12:00.000-05:00

This summer, my company had an opportunity to volunteer our time for a day to serve at a camp about an hour from Kansas City called "Camp Quality".

The camp has been around for 26 years and has the express purpose of ministering to kids from 4 yrs old to 17 yrs old who are currently in treatment or remission for cancer. The vision of the camp is to enable all children with cancer and their families a way to find joy and hope through shared experiences and an ongoing support system.

It was such an amazing time - none of us could have ever imagined the impact one Sunday afternoon would have on our lives.

As the children arrive on Sunday afternoon for a week of fun, they are greeted by many companions and hundreds of volunteers whose goal is to make this one of the funnest times of their summer. It begins with a carnival on the common area of the grounds where they can play games, win prizes and earn tickets to be used for special awards later in the week.

"We" volunteers arrived ready to get cracking and busied ourselves, getting our booth ready for the arrival of the kids wanting to play ring toss and a glider plane toss through a hoola hoop.

We had a ball getting to know the campers and it was great fun watching my husband get bamboozled into giving each player more than his fair share of play! The company donated some trucks that had been used for advertising in the past and we loaded the back end with bracelets, rings and toys of all kinds.

Ryan is a now part of the staff at Camp Quality. He originally started out as a camper, then graduated to a companion, pairing up with a camper - and finally made it to a role of Camp Staff. It was great to see him again this year but with a heavy heart, Ryan shared that his brain cancer had returned last December. He was quick to state that he's determined to beat it and I believe him!

One of my dear friends volunteered to be a cabin mom for the entire week and before we left camp that day, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting the boys in "Peace Haven South". Each young boy managed to capture my heart in that short span of time on Sunday afternoon and I know Donna's life is changed forever. Special activities were planned each day from horseback riding, swimming, archery, Goop Wars and Bubble Pools to variety shows, costume parties and even Prom for the graduating campers!

I will share some pictures that have touched my heart and I sure hope they touch yours as well.

Working with these kids and this camp made such a major impression on my husband and myself that next year, we have decided that we are going to volunteer to work at the camp for the entire week. I want to be a cabin mom and Darrell wants to assist the camp "handyman" Dennis, who does everything from unplugging toilets to making sure every aspect of the camp runs as it should behind the scenes.

Sounds perfect, and I know neither of us can wait!

Thank you for Serving and Sacrificing -

2011-05-30T10:00:00.003-05:00

Their silent wounds have speech
More eloquent than men;
Their tones can deeper reach
Than human voice or pen.
~William Woodman

Remembering all who have given so much for our freedoms

- we give great honor to you today!

2011-04-04T06:37:00.003-05:00

We held a memorial service for my aunt this past weekend - she is pictured here (L) shopping with her girlfriend arounnd 1941.

She was always such a fun loving person who lived life to the fullest - I looked up to her so much and she was my lifeline after my mom passed away.

And oh... could we all laugh together at family gatherings! There were many photo's and scrapbooks that she had compiled when she was a teenager and as I was looking through them, I stumbled upon the following poem:

He gripped me by my slender neck

I could not call or scream

He dragged me to his dirty room

Where he could not be seen

He tore away my flimsy wraps

And gazed upon my form

I was cold and damp and scared

And he was hot and warm

He pressed his lips against mine

I gave him every drop

He drained me of myself

I could not make him stop

He made me what I am today

that is why you find me here

Just an empty bottle

That once was full of BEER

thank you Lord....

2011-04-03T16:36:00.002-05:00

My Pastor read the following in service this morning and it hit me right between the eyes:

We are world Christians.
We put God's love for all people first.
No race is superior to another; no government is more loved than another; no country dearer than another.
We don't put our nation's economy before God's economy. He tells us to seek first His Kingdom. He will meet our needs.
We are driven to action daily with the knowledge that three billion people do not know our Savior. Our passion in life, our unquenchable desire, is to take God's love to them.
No task is too small for us. All that limits us is our unwillingness to believe that God can enable us to do it.
We are sold out to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Nothing less. We understand following Him means absolute death to ourselves.
It costs everything to be His disciple.

Don't give us blessings-give us grace to be unquestionably obedient to Your every last command and desire.
Don't give us status-give us a place to serve.
Don't give us things for our use-use us.
Don't give us good jobs-put us to work.
Don't give us comfort-command us.
Don't give us pleasure-give us perspective.
Don't give us satisfaction-teach us sacrifice.
Don't give us entertainment-enable us.
Don't give us good salaries-give us strength to do your will.

Our great joy in life is in pleasing our Lord-and there is no other joy comparable.
We are tired of playing religion, tired of seminaries and Bible schools that pump out thinkers who don't act, tired of a church life that consists of a few regular functions and sermons that sound good-as if they were being rated as speeches-but have no consequence except complacency.
Life is not some 70-year stretch we endure until Christ returns or takes us home, nor is it a time to seek personal fulfillment.
We don't seek self-actualization-rather, we pursue the actualization of God's love in all hearts.
We don't seek our personal rights-we seek to see all people set free.
We make no plans-we take orders.
We have no complaints-except our thankless hearts.
We have no excuses-they limit God.
We don't ask for reasons-we ask for responsibilities.
We don't give ten percent of our income to God-we give it all.
We don't work for Him from 8 to 5-we are His 24 hours of each day.
We are not stoics-we hurt and cry when loved ones leave us. But we hurt all the more for people who pass into eternity without making Jesus Christ their Lord.
We are not drop outs because we don't hold "respectable, secure" jobs-we're "sold outs."
We are not cynics. Although there are unanswered questions, we know Christ has all the answers.
We are not bitter. Although we have been hurt, Christ is our healer.
We are not disillusioned. Although we sin constantly, Christ forgives us and makes us strong in our weakness.
We don't spend endless hours squabbling over sideline issues such as pre-, mid- or post-tribulation or charismatic gifts. We don't take pride in acquiring things-no, hoarding shames us.
We say it's senseless to talk of availability or willingness. We would rather obey and do the job, not talk about it.

by Gordon Aescliman

On the TDIPT Mercantile

2011-03-31T19:42:00.003-05:00

Just a quick note to share my newest creations.

Both of these will be featured on the TDIPT Mercantile for April -

Please drop by and check out all of the amazing offerings! You wont be disappointed ♥

Magic You Can Buy With a Dollar!

2011-03-30T14:00:00.005-05:00

Who knew the benefits that come in that $1.00 package of coffee filters at the Dollar Tree? They are better than paper towels and a lot less expensive. I thought this was worth passing on! It may have you thinking the next time you have a job to do...

1. Cover bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave. Coffee filters make excellent covers.

2. Clean windows, mirrors, and chrome... Coffee filters are lint-free so they'll leave windows sparkling.

3. Protect China by separating your good dishes with a coffee filter between each dish.

4. Filter broken cork from wine. If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.

5. Protect a cast-iron skillet. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.

6. Apply shoe polish. Ball up a lint-free coffee filter.

7. Recycle frying oil. After frying, strain oil through a sieve lined with a coffee filter.

8. Weigh chopped foods. Place chopped ingredients in a coffee filter on a kitchen scale.

9. Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.

10 Stop the soil from leaking out of a plant pot. Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes.

11. Prevent a Popsicle from dripping. Poke one or two holes as needed in a coffee filter.

12. Do you think we used expensive strips to wax eyebrows? Use strips of coffee filters.

13. Put a few in a plate and put your fried bacon, French fries, chicken fingers, etc on them.. It soaks out all the grease.

14. Keep in the bathroom. They make great "razor nick fixers."

15. As a sewing backing. Use a filter as an easy-to-tear backing for embroidering or appliqueing soft fabrics.

16. Put baking soda into a coffee filter and insert into shoes or a closet to absorb or prevent odors.

17. Use them to strain soup stock and to tie fresh herbs in to put in soups and stews.

18 Use a coffee filter to prevent spilling when you add fluids to your car.

19. Use them as a spoon rest while cooking and clean up small counter spills.

20. Can use to hold dry ingredients when baking or when cutting a piece of fruit or veggies.. Saves on having extra bowls to wash.

21. Use them to wrap Christmas ornaments for storage.

22. Use them to remove fingernail polish when out of cotton balls.

23. Use them to sprout seeds. Simply dampen the coffee filter, place seeds inside, fold it and place it into a zip-lock plastic bag until they sprout.

24. Use coffee filters as blotting paper for pressed flowers. Place the flowers between two coffee filters and put the coffee filters in phone book.

25. Use as a disposable "snack bowl" for popcorn, chips, etc.

OH YEAH THEY ARE GREAT TO USE IN YOUR COFFEE MAKERS TOO!

Set Your Alarm Clocks!

2011-03-25T08:31:00.004-05:00

The amazingly talented ladies of TDIPT are hosting a Spring Launch ...

~ Coming to Ebay beginning March 27th ~

DREAMS WORK WHILE YOU SLEEP

2011-03-23T11:33:00.005-05:00

The following article was sent out in a recent Wellness Newsletter in my company and I thought it was quite interesting... enough to share here ♥
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When we remember them, our dreams can seem bizarre – with impossible physical feats,
disconnected people and sudden changes in place. We wake up and think, “What was that about?”

For thousands of years humans have been fascinated with dreams, but we still don’t know as much as we’d like about them. We do know that the vast majority of humans dream every night. Sometimes dreams can be traced to our recent activities, as though our minds are trying to organize our experiences. Some people repeat the same
themes over and over in their dreams, and many of us share the same themes – such as flying like a bird or forgetting to attend a class until the final exam.

In 1953, the phenomenon of rapid eye movement (REM) was discovered. People who were awakened during REM sleep usually remembered vivid dreams, but when awakened during
non-REM sleep, they seldom remembered dreaming. This proved that our brains are
active during sleep.

Researchers also discovered that if they waked people just as they began dreaming,
these people exhibited increased tension, anxiety and irritability; along with difficulty concentrating. These results indicate that dreaming is important, and
that dream deprivation can have serious consequences.

We still don’t know exactly why we dream, but we do know that our brains are, and
should be, working while we sleep.

Be Still My Heart

2011-03-20T11:24:00.003-05:00

I dont think I need to say one word for you to know what I feel in my heart.....

Pray for Japan

2011-03-18T06:34:00.006-05:00

There is a movement going on across the nation today called "Red Friday" to honor of our troops - I think it's an amazing way to support and pray!

But I propose we also use this opportunity to remind us to pray for Japan.

There is so much devestation and sorrow ...

Japan needs our help and our prayers.

Will you join in?

One way to help is very simple - over at RIPT,
they have a very special tee design running for one day only.

With every t-shirt sold, RIPT is donating $5.00; in conjunction, the artist is also donating $1.00, so for every t-shirt sold today - a grand total of $6.00 will be donated to the Red Cross to help Japan. I respect and admire the Red Cross and their humanitarian efforts so very much and think we could all do something
(no matter how small or large) to send help to the people of Japan.

Please, take a moment to check it out...

Sully Turns One!!

2011-03-13T17:30:00.008-05:00

Our Sully Bear turned one year old on March 10th, and mom and dad planned a birthday party to beat the band! What fun it turned out to be, too.

Cheyenne decorated the party area in a "Cowboy and Indian" theme, complete with cupcakes and headdress for both Sully and her!

One little indian, happy as a lark!

His Grandma Betty made these magnificent mocassins for Sully ... aren't they wonderful?

Cheyenne, with the help of two friends who love to bake made the cupcakes and Sully's birthday cake. There were s'more cupcakes, peanut butter and jelly cupcakes, and birthday cake cupcakes!

His grand throne and cowboy bib awaited him...

The anticipation was building.... little did he know what was about to happen!

Did I mention the paparazzi was out in force?

I dont know how Chey will top his first birthday party celebration ... but she has a whole year to work on it ♥

2011-03-06T08:04:00.001-06:00

There is a little creature that lives in my house,
small and quiet as a mouse,
sneaks into my bedroom, past all the locks,
opens my drawers, and steals my socks.
He's not greedy, just one at a time,
I had eighteen, now I've nine.
Christmas, birthdays, you can bet,
socks and socks are all I get.
From Aunties, Uncles the occasional Niece.
this makes the day of the one sock thief.
Why does he takes just the one!
Perverted pleasure or just for fun?
Why he takes them is beyond belief,
the dirty rotten one sock thief

John Wathen

March Mania!

2011-02-28T16:37:00.008-06:00

We are celebrating an anniversary on the TDIPT Mercantile!

Thats right... we are turning 4 years old this March and, like all of our wonderful celebrations we've had in the past, there are amazing prizes galore to be had!

You wont want to miss out on the fun ... stop by the TDIPT Blog

and check out all the fantastic donations,

as well as learning all the ways to be entered in the drawing.

I have some fresh pieces to share with tonight's Mercantile upload - including a couple of sweet nesting bird pinkeeps and an Americana summer time wall hanging that beckons warm weather to hurry back!

Don't miss out on the fun!

Going to the Chapel...

2011-02-17T14:37:00.003-06:00

Lookie who is going to be in his first ever wedding!

Isn't Mr. Sullivan the cutest little ring bearer you ever laid eyes on?

Gee... I wonder if he will be walking by March...

♥ giggle ♥

A Trip to Brookside

2011-02-13T07:16:00.008-06:00

I get set in my ways sometimes and don't venture too far out of the box, but yesterday (at the promptings of a very cool co-worker who is always doing fun and exciting things with her girlfriends or grandkids), I took a trip to Brookside in Kansas City with a couple of friends.

Brookside is Kansas City's first suburban shopping area. It's a very hip hub of beautiful homes, unique shops, trendy restaurants, and cultural attractions and just an exciting and fun place to hang out on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon!

The shops are jam-packed with people dipping in and out of shops filled with beautiful art from local artisans - although I wasn't able to take many photos, I wanted to share a few of the ones I was able to take.

There is much talent and some amazing restaurants in this quaint area of the city. We ate at a place called Avenues Bistro and raved the entire time we were there. It was truly amazing and delicious.

Some of my friends know a little secret about it... call it a hidden delight or whatever you will, but I have a thing for awesome and unusual restrooms ... check out this one at the last stop on our day trip - in a local coffeeshop!

After surviving what has felt like a century of snow and 0° temperatures, we 3 girls had a ball together- walking the streets, browsing through the shops and soaking up the delicious sun.

I, for one, am going back soon - and from the feedback I heard yesterday, I don't think I will be alone.

Life is but a vapor...

2011-02-11T09:23:00.006-06:00

For a very long time, I had read this statement in the Bible, but didn't realize the truths it held. As I grew older (and maybe a little wiser) the smoke cleared and it's meaning has taken on a new respect for me.

My mother passed away shortly after my 12th birthday and in the course of time that followed, motherly influences in my life came in the form of my grandmother "Nan", several aunts, and mothers of my closest friends. My bond with my mom's older sister was a close one. She was hip and cool to me. She had the most amazing closet of clothes that she welcomed me to go in and look through to see if there was anything I wanted to wear. She would cut my hair and style it for me and give motherly instruction on what to wear and what not to wear. Sometimes I listened ... sometimes I didn't, but I knew the love we shared was deep and wide no matter the differences we had.

We lost the close touch that we had shared in those years after my mom's death - for reasons I cannot pinpoint. Life passes so quickly and the next time you look up, it's 10 years later and you are living in another part of the country.

I recently saw her again and although the circumstance for the reunion was a very sad one, my heart was immediately filled with the love that was reminiscent of my early teen years.

Today I'm going up to visit Aunt Wendy. She is in the hospital, fighting the ravages of mouth cancer and a body that is shutting down after nearly 87 years on this world. I'm anxious to sit with her and visit - and go back in time to a place when we were much younger and sillier and life was so very happy and full.

She told me on the phone that she is a little self conscience of her appearance but I assured her that through my eyes, I would always only see the 35 year old beauty that stepped in to try and fill a vast void left from my mom's passing.

I'm anxious to see her and make up for lost time ♥

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I decided to attach an article that I wrote about my childhood home. The ladies of TDIPT are sharing in a series of articles entitled "The House that Built Me". I had a wonderful time writing this and realizing how much I remember of those days so long ago, that were overflowing with love.

I grew up in St. Joseph, MO, whose claim on the historical map is being the home of the Pony Express and the place where Jesse James met his end.

My parents purchased a house on Woodbine Road shortly after I was born, and at that time was considered “country living”. My father worked several jobs while my mom stayed home and filled our house with much love and many antiques. Our home was a haven and solace for all who entered. My mom could meet you at the door and in an instant you knew you were welcome in our home and that her love was genuine and true for you.

I often dream of my beloved childhood on Woodbine Road. Growing up, we never worried about leaving the doors unlocked or playing outside long after the sun went down. We had an acre of land that accompanied the house and that acre was the daily meeting place for every kid in the neighborhood. We grew up playing baseball, football, kickball, & hide-and-go-seek until our parents were hoarse from calling us to come in and get ready for bed.

My dad was so talented, he could build anything; he was so handy that he could fix any problem that arose. He built the fireplace on the south side of the house. My bedroom is in the top dormer that you see in this photo – it was a place that I always felt safe and secure.

Our lives were very simple and happy. On my wish list every birthday and Christmas, you would find - #1: A HORSE - and - #2: A COWGIRL OUTFIT like I saw in the “Monkey Ward” catalog. I never got either, but that didn’t stop me from asking for them!

We had many big apple trees that my girlfriends and I climbed daily. We would imagine it was the home where we lived together and various boughs of the trees became our kitchen, living room and bedrooms. My mom loved roses and planted beautiful rose gardens on 3 sides of the house. There was a white picket fence that lined the driveway and we walked the tight rope and learned to balance high wire acts with the greatest of ease as we mastered that picket fence!

Being the only girl & baby of the family, I suppose you could say I was a wee bit spoiled by dad. Some of my favorite memories are trailing behind him all day long and wherever he was, you would find me. I spent hours in his shop, watching him work on one project or another. He built stilts from wood and I loved the feeling of towering what felt like 10 feet above my brothers as I strutted on stilts around them. He built skateboards for me and my 2 older brothers, and in no time I was skating in circles on that front porch that seemed so much bigger when I was young.

We hosted many family gatherings at our home. My dad built onto the kitchen, doubling its size and also laid a brick patio out back. I still remember relatives dipping sweet tea from the huge crock on the back step or anxiously waiting for the ice cream maker to turn off, only to hear dad announce that it was time to “DIG IN”! Mind you, we kids didn't notice most of that, as we were too busy picking cicada shells off the trees to scare each other with!

In 1966, life changed drastically for all of us. My mom, whom we loved and cherished, passed away days after my 12th birthday. My dad could not bear living in this home without her, so he sold it and moved us to another part of town. I always felt that a piece of my heart stayed behind in the move. After many years, I came back to St. Joe and made a point of driving by our home. I was thrilled to see that it had been turned into an antique shop. Even to this day I am drawn to that house and each time I find it open for business, I go inside and walk the rooms, reliving the first 11 most wonderful years of my life. And sometimes when I listen close, I still hear the whippoorwills calling to each other just like I remember them doing in the early morning hours of my childhood on Woodbine Road.

Lil Red is coming to the Merc

2011-01-30T22:24:00.003-06:00

I had the hardest time getting motivated this month but once I started focusing, I rather like the way my Lil Red turned out ♥

Lil Red will be coming to the TDIPT Merc tomorrow night.

Evening Prayer

2011-01-26T06:09:00.004-06:00

Someone has said that if Christians really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless.

Did you know that during WWII there was an advisor to Churchill who organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every day at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England, its people and peace?

There is now a group of people organizing the same thing here in America.

If you would like to participate: every evening at 8:00PM Central Time, stop whatever you are doing and spend one minute praying for the safety of the United States, our troops, our citizens, and for a return to a Godly nation.

Our prayers are the most powerful asset we have.

What if there wasn't "anymore" ?

2011-01-20T20:11:00.004-06:00

I found this so touching and wanted to share with you ...
One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't "anymore". No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute." Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I love you."

So while we have it, it's best we love it, care for it, fix it when it's broken and heal it when it's sick. This is true for marriage.....And old cars... And children with bad report cards, and dogs with bad hips, and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.

Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a sister-in-law after divorce. There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.

Life is important, like people we know who are special.. And so, we keep them close!

Suppose one morning you never wake up, do all your friends know you love them? I was thinking...I could die today, tomorrow or next week, and I wondered if I had any wounds needing to be healed, friendships that needed rekindling or three words needing to be said.

Let every one of your friends know you love them. Even if you think they don't love you back, you would be amazed at what those three little words and a smile can do. And just in case I'm gone tomorrow -
I LOVE YOU!

Live today because tomorrow is not promised.

Onion, anyone?

2011-01-11T16:08:00.008-06:00

While this may seem unusual, it was forwarded to me and although I do not know the source, I felt it was interesting enough to share!

In 1919 when the flu killed 40 million people, there was a Doctor that visited many farmers to see if he could help them combat this flu, as many of the farmers and their families had contracted it and many had died.

The doctor came upon this one farmer and, to his surprise, everyone in his family was very healthy. When the doctor asked what the farmer was doing that was different, the wife replied that she had placed an unpeeled onion in a dish in the rooms of the home, (probably only two rooms back then). The doctor couldn't believe it and asked if he could have one of the onions and place it under the microscope. She obliged and when he tested it, he found that the onion was riddled with flu virus. It had obviously absorbed the bacteria and therefore, kept the family healthy.

I heard this story from my hairdresser: she said that several years ago, many of her employees were coming down with the flu and also many of her customers. The next year she placed several bowls with onions around in her shop and, to her surprise, none of her staff got sick (and no, she is not in the onion business).

So the sensible answer would seem to be, buy some onions and place them in bowls around your home. If you work at a desk, place one or two in your office (under your desk or even a windowsill). Try it and see what happens. We did it last year and none of us contracted the flu.

If this helps you and your loved ones from getting sick, all the better. If you do get the flu, it just might be a mild case.

Whatever, what have you to lose? Just a few pennies on onions!!

Now there is a P.S. to this, for I sent it to a friend in Oregon who regularly contributes material to me on health issues. She replied with this most interesting experience about onions:

"Thanks for the reminder. I don't know about the farmers story, but I do remember that I contracted pneumonia and, needless to say, I was very ill. I came across an article that said to cut both ends off an onion, put one end on a fork and then place the forked end into an empty jar, placing the jar next to the sick patient at night. It said the onion would be black in the morning from the germs. Sure enough, it happened just like that.. the onion was a mess and I began to feel better. Another thing I read in the article was that onions and garlic placed around the room saved many from the black plague years ago. They have powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties."

Now, take this with a grain of salt, if you will but personally I dont see the harm in putting an onion or two under my pillow :)

Oh, and another point: Dogs should never eat onions. Their stomachs cannot metabolize onions.

As you ring in the New Year...

2011-01-01T13:09:00.004-06:00

Let this coming year be better than all the others.
Vow to do some of the things you've always wanted to do but couldn't find the time.

Call up a forgotten friend.

Drop an old grudge -

and replace it with some pleasant memories.

Vow not to make a promise you don't think you can keep.

Walk tall, and smile more. You'll look ten years younger.

Don't be afraid to say, 'I love you'.

Say it again. Say it yet, once again.

They are the sweetest words in the world.

♥

Did you know that kissing someone at the stroke of midnight brings good luck for the coming year? Whether you had to set your alarm to wake up and poke the person sleeping next to you, my wish for you is a happy and healthy 2011!

HAPPY NEW YEAR,

dear friends!

The further adventures of Life with Sully

2010-12-30T05:55:00.004-06:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas holiday and hope that you did too.

The greatest joy on this earth is in the form of a little roly-poly 9 month old Santa baby named Sullivan.

He seems to ooze joy wherever he goes! So instead of going on and on, trying to come up with adjectives to describe the love I have in my heart for this little man, I will share some pictures and let you "feel the love" yourself.

One thing that really makes me happy is knowing this time next year, he will be walking and talking! ... can't wait!

TDIPT Swaps just take the cake!

2010-12-13T21:12:00.010-06:00

It's time for our annual Christmas swap and true to form,

the TDIPT ladies have outdone themselves.

As is the habit, we take and share photos of all our goods and I've been oooh'ing and aaaaah'ing everyone elses things, patiently waiting for my box to arrive. Well, tonight was the night! After a long and very cold day - I walked into the house to find the biggest box sitting on the counter, just waiting for me to tear into it.

As it beckoned to me, I felt it was my civic duty to oblige ♥

Inside, to the delight of my heart ... my sweet friend Pea of Whimsical Endeavors packed so many awesome things that were stiched with love and purchased especially for me!

To name a few, there was a gorgeous Blue snowflake keyring, delicious Kona blend coffee, candies of dipped pretzels & marshmellows on a stick, the sweetest Gingerbread photo frame (that will hold a picture of my SullyBear very soon and even cat treats for Nip and Tuck. Pea didnt forget anyone in my house!

But the best was this beautiful wool Santa pillow that she stitched with love - for me! I found the perfect spot for it on an antique rocking chair. This chair was a wedding gift to Darrell and me over 30 years ago - it was built in the mid 1800's and I cherish it so, thinking of how many babies have been rocked to sleep in it. My Briar Rabbit snowman keeps company with my gorgeous Whimsical Endeavor's stitched pillow.

Not only was Tuck sweetly surprised to find kitty treats from Pea and her family, but he also claimed a new stowaway box to hide out in!

And when hubs found the container of Mocha Bars, he put the death grip on them and headed for his favorite recliner with a cup of freshly brewed Vanilla Macadamia Nut Kona blend!

Thank you Sweet Pea... you have made us all one very happy family tonight with your generous and loving heart!

A visit with friends

2010-12-13T06:12:00.005-06:00

Last Friday, we planned a reunion of sorts with some high school friends that reconnected on Facebook. We gathered together everyone that could take an extended lunch and met at a great cajun restaurant in St. Joseph Mo. called Boudreaux's. And what a fun time it was - getting reaquainted after 38 years! Some of these folks I hadn't seen since we graduated in 1972.

We hope the next lunch is even bigger and better - we're planning a Saturday to accomodate those that cannot make a weekday event!

Ronnie Nelson waited with me for one of my oldest and dearest friends to get off work. Great hooking up with Kathy Brown - who works as a nurse for the city jail. Oh, the trouble we got into growing up!! Mercy :)

After our lunch date, I drove a few blocks up the street to spend some quality time with my favorite great nephew. Sully turned 9 months old on Friday so we had to do the birthday dance and celebrate ♥

He's getting so big!

]

Sully time is always the best time!

2010-11-30T18:27:00.009-06:00

My great nephew Sullivan Dorrell Lynch came visiting on Thanksgiving day and decided to spend the night at my house.

You will never hear me complain when someone suggests that I spend more time with Sully-bear. He is the sweetest baby boy and never fusses or complains.

He was born on March 10th and weighs about 23 lbs. He has 4 teeth now and is working on more - and even during the days of cutting teeth, his fussing is at a minimum.

I got this high chair at a garage sale for $10 and holy smokes, he LOVED spending time in it. He would sit for hours as everyone oooh'd and aaaah'd over him on Thanksgiving day. Next morning, the story was the same - I think he really liked being eye level with everyone else and being able to see all that was going on! Best 10 bucks I've spent in a very long time :)

Looks like someone had some stories to tell Aunt Cookie!

Bathing was so much fun on Friday morning ... he sure does love his bath time !!

Sully is getting so strong - he would pull himself up in the tub and actually stood without hanging onto the sides for several seconds. It wont be long now till he is moving and groovin all over the house!

Hanging onto Uncle Marty ♥

I love this sweet little boy so much and can't wait for the next time he comes to Aunt Cookie's house ♥

Hurry Down the Chimney Tonight!

2010-11-29T23:36:00.000-06:00

I've been busy in the dungeon getting my Father Christmas and olde fashioned reindeer ready for the December TDIPT Mercantile!

I do hope you will stop by Tuesday evening to see all of the wonderful offerings!

Christmas is a wonderful, magical time of year -

anything can happen when you believe ♥

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T21:07:00.002-06:00

Every year, a custom carries on that was started by my dear Mother-in-Law years ago: we wake on Thanksgiving morning and flip on CBS to watch the Macy's Day parade as we busy ourselves in the kitchen, preparing a family feast.

Several years ago, I was half watching The Morning Show with Harry Smith, who narrated a segment with Anne Graham.

Anne read a prayer from her father, the Reverend Billy Graham.

I couldn't believe what I was hearing on television... it moved me to the very core of everything I believe, and I wanted to share it here with you again this year.
Each year, I come back to this post and each year, it's as poignant and real for me as ever it was.... it goes like this:

“Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance.

We know Your Word says, ‘Woe to those who call evil good,’ but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.

We have killed our unborn and called it choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem.

We have abused power and called it politics.

We have coveted our neighbor’s possessions and called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.

Amen.”

As families gather for the holiday, please remember there is no reason to have a holiday called Thanksgiving unless there is Someone to thank.

Thanks to God and Jesus Christ His Son for all the blessings on our fair land.

Take CHRIST out of Christmas?

2010-11-20T08:15:00.004-06:00

Not if I can help it.... this is such a clever idea!
Want to have some fun this CHRISTMAS?

Send the ACLU a CHRISTMAS CARD this year.

As they are working so very hard to get rid of the CHRISTMAS part of this holiday, we should all send them a nice card to brighten up their dark sad little world. Make sure it says "Merry Christmas" on it.

For those of you who aren't aware of them, the ACLU,

(the American Civil Liberties Union)

is the one suing the U.S. Government to take God, Christmas or anything religious away from us. They represent the atheists and others in this war.

Help put Christ back in Christmas!

Here's the address, just don't be rude or crude:

ACLU
125 Broad Street , 18th Floor
New York , NY 10004

Two tons of Christmas cards would freeze their operations because they wouldn't know if any were regular mail containing contributions. So spend 44 cents and tell the ACLU to leave Christmas alone. Also tell them that there is no such thing as a "Holiday Tree". It's always been called a CHRISTMAS TREE!

We really want to communicate with the ACLU!

They really DESERVE us!!

For those of you who aren't aware of them, the ACLU (the American Civil Liberties Union) is the one suing the U.S. Government to take God, Christmas or anything religious away from us. They represent the atheists and others in this war. Help put Christ back in Christmas!

As a footnote, huge kudos to Dick's Sporting Goods!!

Dick's Sporting Goods has told American Family Association that "Christmas" will become a huge part of their advertising beginning November 28.

Vice-Chairman Bill Columbo told the AFA that "We have made significant changes from past years, when 'holiday' was the dominant theme of our advertising."
~ Beginning November 28, Sunday newspaper inserts will read "Christmas 2010." It will continue each Sunday through Christmas.
~ Dick's website will display the Christmas message prior to the first insert (next week) in time for Thanksgiving day.
~ Television commercials running after November 28th will also refer to Christmas season

Think I'll pay a visit to Dick's this holiday season to show my deep appreciation for taking a stand on this !

♥ The History of APRONS ♥

2010-11-12T05:39:00.007-06:00

I don't think our kids know what an apron is!

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few.

It was also because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons used less material.

But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.

It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.

From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids..
And when the weather was cold Grandma wrapped it around her arms.

Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.

From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables.
After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.
In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.

When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.

When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace
that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.

REMEMBER:
Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool.
Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.

They would go crazy now trying to figure out
how many germs were on that apron.

I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron – but

LOVE !

HONORING OUR VETS

2010-11-11T10:38:00.005-06:00

“Hon-or: n. 1. High respect; esteem; a person or thing that brings credit.”

My dad was a veteran to our country and a hero to me.

He served our great country during World War II
and these photos were taken on his first trip home in 1944 from fighting.

Dad was the youngest of 11 children and is shown here
surrounded by nieces, nephews and siblings.

We all loved Elmer dearly - he was a genuine man
with a huge and tender heart and I miss him everyday.

His parents, Miss Minnie and Daniel O are shown here with dad as a youngun. Elmer was as ornery as he was cute... and I believe it was shortly after this photo was taken that he fell in a water well and broke his arm.

To honor all our veterans, this poem seemed perfect to post.... thank you for your sacrifice!

They Did Their Share

On Veteran’s Day we honor
Soldiers who protect our nation.
For their service as our warriors,
They deserve our admiration.

Some of them were drafted;
Some were volunteers;
For some it was just yesterday;
For some it’s been many years;

In the jungle or the desert,
On land or on the sea,
They did whatever was assigned
To produce a victory.

Some came back; some didn’t.
They defended us everywhere.
Some saw combat; some rode a desk;
All of them did their share.

No matter what the duty,
For low pay and little glory,
These soldiers gave up normal lives,
For duties mundane and gory.

Let every veteran be honored;
Don’t let politics get in the way.
Without them, freedom would have died;
What they did, we can’t repay.

We owe so much to them,
Who kept us safe from terror,
So when we see a uniform,
Let’s say "thank you" to every wearer.

By Joanna Fuchs

Sully came visiting last Saturday....

2010-11-01T13:46:00.003-05:00

and stole my heart when he left to go home.

He was dressed up as a Sock Monkey and couldn't have been more precious!

Let me just share a few of my favorite pics with you here - he is such a happy boy and I love him to pieces :)

Mercy, I love that boy ♥

He Looks up to His Daddy....

He tried some rice... didnt like it -

then Mom gave him some sweet potatoes ... at first, he wasn't sure -

but quickly decided they weren't too bad!

Sullivan has 4 teeth now: 2 upper and 2 lower ♥

My o my... that boy loves his mama!

Happy November!

2010-11-01T06:09:00.001-05:00

I dont know how it was at your house, but in my neighborhood, we had a record number of kids on Halloween! It was a little chilly out but hubs and I sat in lawn chairs out in the driveway, passing out candy to all the the kids dressed up in some pretty creative costumes. I was very glad to see many parents accompany their children through the neighborhood this year – and it just made for a great night or safe fun!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We have some exciting news to share from the TDIPT Mercantile!
We are hosting our 3rd Annual Open House and celebrating all month long with a Colonial Christmas theme. As in past years, we will be offering wonderful giveaways by the talented TDIPT artists as well!

To qualify simply sign up for the TDIPT Mercantile newsletter here:
http://www.tdiptmercantile.com/
You will also receive an entry for each item that you purchase from TDIPT from October 31st through November 20th.

So be sure to check out all the lovely offerings from the TDIPT artists and start your Christmas shopping from the comfort of your own home! What better gift than a handmade one of a kind artist creation…

In honor of the Colonial Christmas celebration, I have created a clay and paper mache Belsnickle Santa – he stands 17” tall and comes complete with flowing lined robe and primitive star in hand.

Please stop by my page and check him out in more detail~
and be sure to join us in the festivities!

PINK!

2010-10-22T09:33:00.003-05:00

My company is so good about supporting causes and giving aid to the community.

Yesterday we celebrated PINK DAY, to focus on breast cancer awareness. We had pretty good participation from many the associates as well ...and there were even some drawings to go with it.

The first person to get their ticket number drawn chose the next winning number and so on until all 5 gifts were given away.

Lucky ME! I won a lunch bag, which is the perfect size to fit two tall Red Bulls on the bike ♥

Now, when it came to picture taking, I couldn't help but ham it up in one of the photos. I hope they pick that one to go in the newsletter from North Carolina home office :)

TDIPT is hosting an OPEN HOUSE!

2010-10-13T14:43:00.006-05:00

I wanted to share a bit of inside information on the "goings on" over at the TDIPT Mercantile. During the month of November, we are celebrating with a Colonial Christmas theme. Each of our amazing artists will each be creating something special and unique along this theme!

But it gets even better than that.... we are hosting an Open House with prizes galore, donated by these amazing talents:

Big Brown Dog Primitives
Boggy Bottom Bayou
Brady Bears Studios
Chickadee Primitives
Country Thyme Stitchery
Crowsnest Pass Primitives
Diamiond K Folk Art
Eat Crow Primitives
Enchanted Woods Folk Art
Hot Metal Mama and Nostalgic Folk Art
Meadowbrook Cabin Primitives
Moon Pie Primitives
Nothing Plain by Jane
Old Branch Hollow
Pear Tree Primitives
Prairie House Primitives
The Wooden Acorn
Threadwork Primitives
1897 House Primitives

Getting entered into the drawing will be a snap as well - all you have to do is:

Join our TDIPT Blog Mailing List (you are already entered in the drawing if you receive our monthly updates)

Every purchase made from the TDIPT Mercantile from November 1st - November 20th, 2010 will earn you another chance in the drawing!

So mark your calendars, tie a string around your finger, post sticky notes to remind yourself and set your pop-up reminders on the computer.

You wont want to miss this one!

New upload on the TDIPT Mercantile

2010-09-30T13:16:00.005-05:00

Here's a sneak peek at my offering for October on the Merc -

I think I could make punkinheads year-round and be quite happy!

Please be sure to stop by tonight and check out all the amazing offerings that will be available :)

RIDE FOR LIFE benefit run

2010-09-28T05:33:00.008-05:00

Last weekend, we participated in a motorcycle ride called "Ride For Life".

It was an amazing benefit that started with a trip to my chiropractor's new office. He had recently moved into a new building they had built and as I was oooohing and aaaahing over the digs, he started sharing about the crisis pregnancy center called HANDS OF HOPE that was housed on the lower level. Once he got done cracking on me, I was treated to the grand tour and vision they have. To say I came home inspired is an understatement. I discussed everything that was on my heart with my hubs, asking what we could do to help these girls in trouble. I knew I wanted to come along side and promote in some small way. From that evening, the seed for Ride for Life was planted. We presented it to our motorcycle ministry and decided on a benefit run to be held in the fall.

There was much to be done, but one of the members stepped up to spearhead this event and for the last 9 months, has spent many waking moments with the whole concept on his heart and head. And the fruits of his labor paid off in a big way!

The day arrived last Saturday for the big event. Sadly for all his blood, sweat and worry working out every detail of this ride, Bill was not able to be there. His father was gravely ill, battling from complications of Alzheimer's and drove to Iowa to be with his dad during his last days. I just want to thank you, Bill - for all of your dedication and devotion to this project. Because of your efforts (and another lady who works at the Hands of Hope center), this was the smoothest and most enjoyable ride I've ever experienced.

This was most of the team ... morning of registration.

Three of the ladies who devote their time at Hands of Hope, coming alongside young girls who find themselves many times, alone, scared and pregnant. They offer love and genuine caring and let them know they are not alone. (L to R: Sonya, Dana and Teresa)

Hubs and I the morning of the ride - excited to see what God would do!

Dwayne and Pam, BFC family & dear friends that made the trip from Springfield to support us.

My sweet Sybil and me.... this was her first motorcycle ride,

and I think it's in her blood now ♥

The only way to describe this.... is T-R-O-U-B-L-E!
Love these guys - they have hearts of gold ♥

My sweet friend, Kim. She lost a grandbaby to SIDS and hosts a benefit ride each year to raise funds for that worthy organization. She gave us lots of tips on what to do and we are forever grateful for her "trial by fire" experinces that she shared.

Some shots of the ride.... since I was lucky to be at the head of the caravan, I was able to get some good shots of the group. There were roughly 30 bikes that participated, which I thought was a pretty good turnout for our first year at this.

We concluded the ride with lunch, a live band and many many drawings being held at a church that graciously volunteered to host our group. What a blessing - and delicious food too!! Thank you, Rock of KC ♥

Lo and behold, look what awaited us as we exited the church to head towards home! Crazy storm clouds that sure looked mighty threatening! Thankfully, God held off the rain till everyone was safely close to home.

I just want to thank Bill and Teresa once again for your dedication and hard work to make this all come together with such success! It's all to the Glory of God - and we were able to raise up close to $1300 to help Hands of Hope.
What a Blessing ♥

extra extra.... read all about it!

2010-09-23T15:47:00.004-05:00

For the second day in a row, Facebook users reported problems logging into one of the world's most-popular social media websites.

Users reported problems logging onto the site around 2 p.m. central. Access to the site using a wireless device also did not work.

By 3 p.m., Facebook.com was not loading at all.

At 3:15 p.m., Facebook sent this message out on its Twitter account: "Facebook may be slow or unavailable for some people because of site issues. We're working to fix this quickly."

Users had problems accessing Facebook around 1 p.m. Wednesday. Google searches and "tweets" from Twitter accounts said users were unable to log onto Facebook.com from their computers or wireless devices. Some Facebook users said they were able to log onto the site, but service was slow.

Around 2:15 p.m. Wednesday Facebook posted: "We are experiencing an issue with a third-party networking provider that is making it difficult for some of you to connect to Facebook. We are in contact with this provider and working to fix the issue as soon as possible."

Facebook appeared to be working again by 3 p.m. Wednesday, though some people said the site was loading slowly. The company sent this message out on their Twitter account around 7 p.m. Wednesday night: "We've fixed the issue with a third-party networking provider, and anyone impacted should be able to access Facebook normally."

It's unknown what is causing Thursday's problems.

(I wonder how many folks are having a meltdown?) *giggle* Don't you find it strange that Facebook has a Twitter account) :)

Pari, a sweet Punkinhead

2010-09-23T08:52:00.005-05:00

I just couldn't let the season get past me without making one punkinhead.

Pari will be coming to the TDIPT Merc soon ♥.

It's a Giveaway ♥

2010-09-21T14:49:00.003-05:00

Lana of It Seams to be Sew is having a giveaway!
I happened upon her blog today and realized this is the creme de la creme ... I'd surely advise you to make your way over and toss your name in the hat for this Honey Bun~

The result of cutting too many trees....

2010-09-21T14:39:00.003-05:00

We have to stop cutting down trees.

This is getting serious.

TDIPT Fall swap

2010-09-14T09:31:00.003-05:00

Several times during the year, we TDIPT sisters draw names for a swap together. I was so lucky to get Nan of Threadwork Primitives -

I received her beautiful BOO box over the weekend and I'm telling you - she does such gorgeous work. Each stitch is exact and precise, which makes for a gorgeous Fall piece to display in my home.

Thank you Nan, I absolutely LOVE it!

Monday Smiles

2010-09-13T13:08:00.006-05:00

It's been some time since I devoted attention to my blog - summertime brings much busy-ness in the motorcycle fun.

But in honor of Sully's 6 month celebration, I'll just share a few of my favorite pictures. I hope they bring you a smile ♥

According to mom, this is the normal reaction she gets when she pulls him out of the tub....

I can't blame him though - I love having my hair washed too!

This last shot was taken when he was just newborn ... my, how he has grown!

Love you, Sullivan Lynch!

Presenting .... Uncle Riggie

2010-08-30T11:57:00.006-05:00

Riggie Mortis is my latest creation and will be making an appearance on the TDIPT Mercantile Tuesday night. It's been a good long while since I sewed anything, but he sure was a fun fella to create!

Fall is in the air - and I always get excited when I think about being able to decorate for Halloween!

The Further Adventures of Darrell and Cookie ♥

2010-08-17T06:50:00.012-05:00

As promised, and tardy as usual, I have returned to show you a bit more of our recent summer 2010 trip. We passed through St. Louis mid morning and avoided much of the rush hour traffic. It can get a bit crazy there at times, so we were glad to wave goodbye and travel on toward Paducah, KY.

Just a fun trucker we passed along the way.... I was looking for a spigot to tap as we passed his truck :)

We stopped in Paducah to meet a brother in Bikers for Christ. Ric Bond is the Elder for the Paducah chapter and it was great to meet him and spend some time in fellowship.

This was a stop along the way in North Carolina, which is a gorgeous state I could easily go back and visit longer.

the Tennessee skies were giving us a grand show!

Made it to Tennessee for a family reunion and

was greeted by some long lost friends.

the Wilson cousin reunion was a great day together and

Patti put on a delicious spread for all!

Later in the week, we took a trip to Chattanooga.

I love downtown Chattanooga and would love to spend more time there,

scouting around and taking pictures.

It's gorgeous - and we had so much fun at the

city market on Sunday morning.

Just a lil warm when we came out to the bikes to leave...

talk about feeling like a baked potato :)

We stopped at one of Larry and Patti's favorite restaurants right on the river - the food was great and they had an awesome deck right over the water. Loved it!!

Chattanooga is so pretty....

The next day, we ventured over to Pigeon Forge to meet up with some very dear sisters from my TDIPT group. I love these girls and look forward to our little reunion each year - (l to r) Jan Davis of Big Brown Dog Primitives, yours truly in the center and Starla Myers of Briar Rabbit Prims.

Jan gave me a wonderful pocket garland, which I immediately turned into a delicious prim accessory! haha... it's now hanging in my front room filled with Sweet Annie - and I love it!

Starla sells her wonderful wares at Rebecca's -

a fantastic prim shop in Pigeon Forge.

I loved it there and had so much fun shopping and visiting.

Come to find out, Rebecca lived close to me and

still has kin in my own neighborhood - she still visits here every year!

... small world!

who's in the doghouse? He looks quite content....

Rebecca made this sign, which we all thought was so cute....

we had a great day together, visiting and getting to know each other

even better.

I hated to say goodbye to my friends, but we had to hit the road.

On our next telling adventure,

I'll show you some of my favorites homes and farms along the way...

there is nothing better than seeing the country on the back of a motorcycle!

The whirlwind tour, 2010

2010-08-01T23:50:00.006-05:00

Hubs and I just got home from a 2 week vacation, traveling through 7 states - meeting so many great folks and seeing some wonderful spots along the way.

I'll be sharing some pictures with you of our grand time

over the course of the next few days.

The first stop took us to Greenville, SC to visit a girl who I consider to be as close to my daughter. Michelle and I met when she was 11 years old - and we formed an instant bond. That bond is even stronger today, and she is now married with a baby of her own.

This is the home of Ross and Michelle, with their baby daughter Ella and other "baby", Gus.

Here are a few shots of their beautiful home ...

I couldn't pick my favorite spot if I tried!

Ross is a very talented and gifted artist and their home is adorned
with many of his works. It's amazing!

Sweet Ella and me - taken through a mirror by hubs ♥

On Thursday morning, Ross and Michelle took us to the Coffee Underground - after having breakfast there, I can see why this is one of their favorite hangouts!

This was in the ladies powder room at the Coffee Underground... just had to get a picture of the artisan's metal works!

Downtown Greenville, SC ... loved it! I must return soon :)

On main street in Greenville - there is a story about the Mice on Main... they are hidden all along the street and you must try to find them!

From downtown Greenville, we headed over to the zoo - and hitched a ride on the bear.

We only had 1 1/2 days with our dear sweet adopted family - and I do hope we get to return next summer for a longer visit. One day just isn't enough!

Whose Line...

2010-07-14T10:58:00.005-05:00

I have been spending a bit of time lately reminiscing back a few years to the days of a great stand up comedy program that was on each week called "WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY"

Mercy, this was funny stuff!! Ryan and Collin always had me in stitches but when Drew Carey would laugh so uncontrollably, it was contagious!!!

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=whose+line+is+it+&FORM=VDRE&qpvt=whose+line+is+it+#

Crab Cake Anyone?

2010-07-14T08:32:00.003-05:00

These photos were taken at a wedding in North Carolina .

Get ready for this: It's a wedding cake!

The crabs, corn, and even the container of Old Bay Seasoning are made of white chocolate.

The sand is crushed graham crackers and vanilla wafers.

The mallets are fondant, a confection used for decorating.

The entire $700 cake is edible! Crab Cake is not always what you think!

Our Arkansas Getaway, take 2....

2010-07-07T18:04:00.010-05:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, hubs and I headed to Arkansas last weekend and got to spend some time with folks near and dear to our heart. In addition to lunch with our "son", we spent a couple of days hanging with my sweet ebay sister, Pam of Goldiloo Woodworks and her hubs and their friends! We had so much fun together and laughed till our sides were splitting. We were treated to a tour of the area and all the sights that Hardy Arkansas had to offer - but I tell ya, just spending the time with Pam and Chuck was like a soothing balm to my soul.

We loved our time together and hit it off right away. I wasn't quite ready to come home until I thought about how much we missed our cats - but we look forward to another weekend getaway with our great Arkansas friends!

It was beautiful country and we had such a fabulous time - so I will just let the photos tell the story for you ....

Meeting my Pammie and Marsha, her best friend since 1st grade.

We had such fun!!!

For dinner, we went to Biggers Bed and Breakfast - located up on top of a huge valley with a gorgeous view. The food was fantastic and we only got in trouble about 4 or 5 times with the Principal. Me and Pam tried to sneak upstairs to have a look around and she came running after us like we were fugitives. Man, she was a hard nose.... *giggle*

Marsha's finance', Ken - what a nice guy...

he even hammed it up with his frou frou drink! lol

What a great sport for the camera :)

Little Miss Goldie ♥

she is quite camera shy !

Biscuit lounging on his "veranda"

this is where Pammie logs all of her working hours - and I'm here to tell you, they have a beautiful set up !

Even comes with a swing for relaxing with the honey and the pooches ♥

Sweet Biscuit bounding off the porch

Chuck has restored this awesome tractor. He's mighty proud of it and rightly so!

Swinging with Lucy in the garage ... I could have stayed there all day!

I call this one "God's Natural Patio Furnture"

In case there was ever a doubt which one you should go in, the good folks of Arkansas remove all doubts.... :)

Yes... Chuck drove over this one lane slap of cement with rushing water on both sides.... in their HUGE TAHOE!!!

A park in Thayer Mo - more of Pammie's old stompin grounds!

We headed to Mammoth Springs - which brought a nice relaxing walk about the area filled with cool clear water and an awesome waterfall.

How can you mend a broken heart?

2010-07-07T08:16:00.006-05:00

After losing his parents, this 3 year old orangutan was so depressed he wouldn't eat and didn't respond to any medical treatments. The veterinarians thought he would surely die from sadness.

They are together 24 hours a day in all their activities.
They live in Northern California where swimming is their favorite past time, although Roscoe (the orangutan) is a little afraid of the water and needs his friend's help to swim.
Together they have discovered the joy and laughter in life and the value of friendship.
They have found more than a friendly shoulder to lean on.
Long Live Friendship!!!!!!!
I don't know......some say life is too short, others say it is too long, but I know that nothing that we do makes
sense if we don't touch the hearts of others.......while it lasts!

The zoo keepers found an old sick dog on the grounds in the park at the zoo where the orangutan lived and took the dog to the animal treatment center.

The dog arrived at the same time the orangutan was there being treated.
The 2 lost souls met and have been inseparable ever since. The orangutan found a new reason to live and each always tries his best
to be a good companion to his new found friend.

They are together 24 hours a day in all their activities.

They live in Northern California where swimming is their favorite past time, although Roscoe (the orangutan) is a little afraid of the water and needs his friend's help to swim.

Together they have discovered the joy and laughter in life and the value of friendship.

They have found more than a friendly shoulder to lean on.

Long Live Friendship!

Some say life is too short - others say it is too long.

I know that nothing that we do makes sense

if we don't touch the hearts of others while it lasts!

A holiday getaway

2010-07-05T09:12:00.005-05:00

Our 4th of July getaway began with a stopover in Springfield MO for lunch with the Fuller's. George Wayne is the son we never had - he moved next door to us when he was just going into the 8th grade, and he quickly became a regular at our dinner table and a constant in our hearts.

We are so proud of GW and the man he has grown into. His love and dedication to our country touches my heart. He and his wife just had a baby boy on April 10th, and we wanted to take the time to meet and get to know baby Edmund. Of course, time with GW's daughter Eliza is always a blessing, as is the sweet fellowship with GW and Ona.

We were so happy to meet the handsome new addition to George's family - and our time together (altho short lived) was sweet fellowship.

We love you all so much!

SHAZAAAM!!!

2010-06-22T15:02:00.004-05:00

This is the month for giveaways - and I couldn't be happier to share another with you!

Renee of Crows Roost Prims is going to be having a drawing for her fabulous prim patterns. Renee is another partipating member of an ornie swap that I'm involved. Her creations are always so much fun and unique .... do yourself a favor and make your way over to get your name in the hat for a drawing!

You don't want to miss out, do you? ♥

Trudy does it again!

2010-06-19T14:46:00.003-05:00

Summer is spinning away and I just found out that one of my dear friends,
Trudy of Crows in the Attic Primitives
is having a pattern drawing on her blog!

I met Trudy through blogging a few years back and asked to be included in a simple little swap that we have 3 or 4 times a year. Let me tell you, I always look so forward to getting my sweet treasures from the girls - so I can vouch firsthand for Trudy's awesome handiwork!

Anyway... please take a moment to drop by her blog and get your name entered for the drawing. What a fun thing to look forward to when sales are slow and the real world seems to pull us away from our sewing machine!

Thanks Trudy... sounds like fun!!!

What a BLESSING - What a BLAST!!

2010-06-14T06:45:00.012-05:00

We spent this last weekend at Camp Quality, a camp for kids with cancer held one week every summer in Northwest Missouri. I have to say, it was the most rewarding time I've had in a very long time.

We arrived on Saturday ready to get to work and were greeted with the darkest skies raining down buckets. But the crew didnt let that deter us and we spent all day cleaning cabins, getting the camp ready for the kids arrival on Sunday.

We worked the day away, making everything spic and span. It was well worth all of our hard work, watching the kids arrive and jumping off the bus to meet up with their companion for the week. This camp is an oasis in the middle of summer for all of these kids and most have been coming for years - and request the same companion each year. They develop a long and lasting relationship with their caretaker for the week at this camp in northwest Missouri. Most of the companions are college age kids who volunteer and you can literally feel the excitement and love in the air.

As each child came off the bus, they were announced by the emcee -

and met a rounding thunder of applause and hugs!

A crew from my company went out on Sunday and we decorated the tabernacle and stage for a celebration later that night. They were honoring the family of the lady who started the camp 25 years prior - and we wanted everything to look perfect for the kids and the volunteers!

There were plenty of festivities as well that afternoon - with plenty of food and drinks, clowns and a carnival! I wish I could stay all week and drink it all in.

I met Katie, who volunteers every year and does all the grunt work at the camp.

She is anxiously looking forward to next year when she is old enough to work as a companion. She will make a great one, too - during the two days we spent together, she left a lasting impression on me of her genuine and caring heart.

The messhall was all decked out too for the kids at their first supper together!

Amazing work, everyone ♥

We covered up the beautiful quilt that was being presented to the family with a large sheet -

I wish I could have been there when it was uncovered!

someone is turning 3!

2010-06-11T09:15:00.002-05:00

Pam Gracia of Soft in the Head is celebrating 3 years blogging and in honor of the occassion, is having a giveaway.

You would be doing yourself a huge favor by making your way to her blog to put your name in her magic hat for the drawing on June 19th ♥

Sully's first bubble bath...

2010-06-08T08:59:00.001-05:00

My pal...and SIDS

2010-06-03T14:43:00.005-05:00

I love my friend Kim - she is as much fun as any friend you will ever find!

She and I get along so great - and she's just as cute as a button. A few years back, their son suffered a terrible loss by losing their baby to Sudden Infant Death syndrome.

To help cope with the terrible loss of their Granddaughter Brionna, Kim and Jeff started a motorcycle ride / poker run with all proceeds benefiting the SIDS organization.

After 5 years, it's grown into quite a respectable run with many bikes participating. Last year, we had so much fun with these two fellas who participated and just had to get a picture of them with my friend.

And every time I see this picture, it makes me laugh... I am sure you can understand why!

IF YOU CAN....

2010-06-03T13:46:00.003-05:00

If you can start the day without caffeine....

If you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains....

If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles....

If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it....

If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time....

If you can take criticism and blame without resentment....

If you can conquer tension without medical help....

If you can relax without liquor....

If you can sleep without the aid of drugs....

♥ Then You Are Probably The Family Dog! ♥

The Shoes come visiting...

2010-06-01T23:05:00.006-05:00

We got to spend time last weekend with some very special friends.

Hubs and I met Michelle when she was just 11 years old and for whatever reason, we were drawn to each other with a bond that has surpassed time. I love Michelle like she was my own daughter - and I got to meet her husband Ross and new baby Ella .... our time was shortlived, but sweet from begining to end.

We both agreed that our love for each other is the type that we may not stay in contact for months, but both of us know all we have to do is pick up the phone or send an email and we will pick up right where we left off.

I love you Shell - and I adore your family! Can't wait to see you again next month!

Osage Beach Bikers For Christ Gathering May 2010

2010-05-28T16:56:00.009-05:00

After a year of planning, we held our annual Bikers for Christ gathering last weekend in Osage Beach, MO. What a grand time we had too! Somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 folks show up from all corners of the state for a weekend of revitalizing and rekindling friendships. The weather started out a bit dicey, but by Friday afternoon the sun had popped out and it turned into a beautiful weekend for riding.

Here are two of my favorite guys... my hubs Darrell(l), and Will Shackelford - one of our dear friends.

By God's direction, we found this shelter in the middle of the state and it was the perfect place for Sunday morning service. The accoustics were perfect for hearing the Word and John delivered an awesome message!

We all came away feeling so energized and empowered in the Lord.... can't wait for our next get-together!

Are you a true American?

2010-05-28T10:56:00.002-05:00

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: It never occurred to you to be offended by the phrase, 'One nation, under God.'

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You've never protested about seeing the 10 Commandments posted in public places.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You still say 'Christmas' instead of 'Winter Festival.'

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You bow your head when someone prays.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You stand and place your hand over your heart when they play the National Anthem.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You treat Viet Nam vets with great respect, and always have.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You've never burned an American flag.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You know what you believe and you aren't afraid to say so, no matter who is listening.

You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if: You respect your elders and expect your kids to do the same.

AND YOU ARE A TRUE AMERICAN, IF YOU THINK THE NATIONAL ANTHEM SHOULD ONLY BE SUNG IN ENGLISH!

God Bless the USA!

Before you speak....

2010-05-25T12:48:00.000-05:00

There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind.
She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend.
He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend. He asked her,'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind. The sight of his closed eyelid s shocked her. She hadn't expected that.
The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him. Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good
care of your eyes, my dear, for before they were yours, they were mine.'

This is how the human brain often works when our status changes. Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who was always by their side in the most painful situations.

Life Is a Gift ...

Today before you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who went too early to heaven.
Before whining about the distance you drive Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.

So, I had me a visitor come calling yesterday ....

2010-05-19T06:04:00.006-05:00

and boy was I ready!!

It's been way too long since I got to cuddle and kiss my sweet Sullivan.

Sully has been growing like a weed since our last visit
and he just gets sweeter by the day.

From his beautiful long fingers with his knuckle dimpled hands to his chunky little legs, I love this little man!

He has a way of filling even the gloomiest of days with sunshine -

SWEET DREAMS BABY BOY!

Every American citizen should read this!

2010-05-14T16:42:00.003-05:00

This speech was given by Theodore Roosevelt in 1907 - read his ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN...

'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language.. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'

All I can say is "hear, hear Teddy!"

Watch out... you have just entered Avalanche territory

2010-05-02T19:39:00.005-05:00

these guys are amazing... and this is how stuff can happen these days.

I discovered The Ooks of Hazzard on my nephew Darb's FB - and after checking into them, I learnd that they were formed just two months ago.

On April 18th seven ukulele players, an accordionist and someone playing something called a cajon get together at the Live Rock Studios in Torrance California and were filmed doing a cover version of MGMT's "Kids". Sometime on April 19th the video is uploaded to You Tube.

The band is comprised of Danny Kopel, Meredith MacArthur, Charlie Diaz, Patrick Hildebrand, Jay Ponti, Nick Deane, Ed Marshall, Timm Freeman, and Dave Botkin.

They are burning up Facebook, UTube and Twitter sites ... because this is very good stuff - and everyone is sharing it with everyone they know! And that's how a star is born (in the form of a band named the Ooks of Hazzard).

This is good stuff ...very good stuff and I love it!

check out their Utube here!

they're blooming... and they're Heavenly

2010-05-02T17:20:00.005-05:00

When we moved into our home in May several years ago, the lilac trees planted out front were blooming if full. It was such a wonderful experience to open the windows and let the wonderful scent fill the entire house - one that I relished spending days at home for.

Since that time, my trees and their blooms have been hampered with late frosts and killer snows - that is, until 2010!

I'm so glad to share pics that I took this afternoon... I believe with all my heart that Heaven must smell like this ♥

wont you help?

2010-04-30T15:56:00.001-05:00

I'd give him $5.00 just for originality!!!

Lookie who just blew into town...

2010-04-30T06:49:00.003-05:00

This lil sprite will be available on the TDIPT Mercantile tonight ♥

Crazy about Crazy Heart

2010-04-23T23:06:00.005-05:00

Jeff Bridges has had a film career that most actors only dream of.

From some of my favorite roles in movies such as the Last Picture Show, Against all Odds, The Iceman Cometh, Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, The Fabulous Baker Boys, Starman, Tucker, White Squall, Fearless and one his all time best: The Big Lebowski, Jeff Bridges has never disappointed.

But I think his role in Crazy Heart is the stuff every actor must dream of getting - because this is the motherlode! He was totally mesmerizing in this role and kept me in a trance from the opening scene till the credits started rolling. I didn’t want the movie to end and to say I loved this film is an understatement.

Yes, I adored him with his braided ponytail as Bill Django in Men who Stare at Goats but I must say… Jeff Bridges has done it again in an even bigger badder way – and it would have been a total injustice had you NOT won Best Actor at the Oscars this year!

I salute you, Jeff (Bad Otis Blake) Bridges– you’re my hero to the very end.

I know it's Earth Day....

2010-04-22T11:17:00.003-05:00

But trees aren't the only thing worth saving!

My heart is with the babies ♥
Won't you help me support Pro-Life?

ABORT73.com

All in God's Timing...

2010-04-12T23:35:00.006-05:00

A very dear friend is a photographer that has wanted to do a photo shoot with us for about 2 months but it seemed like everytime we tried to hook up, the weather wasn't cooperating or schedules were getting in the way - one thing or another made us postpone time and time again.

I mentioned last week to both Darrell and Jim that God must have something else in store for us - because this was just wasn't working out according to our schedule.

Tonight after work, the weather was gorgeous and we met in downtown Kansas City. Jim has found some great location shoots using old abandoned warehouses and cobblestone alleyways as the backdrop.

We were moving from one shoot to another and when we pulled up to the last location to get the scene ready, a couple of homeless guys walked up. We pray for opportunities anytime we go out and sure enough, God provided another tonight. We were able to spend about an hour talking to these 2 men and sharing the Gospel with them. It was such an exhilarating and exciting time - and we pray God will use us more and more.

These awesome photos were taken by Jim Spencer Photography. If you live in the Kansas City area or are planning a trip here and are interested, I would highly recommend you book a sitting! You just never know what God is going to do during that block of time ♥

Our 109th Birthday

2010-04-05T21:36:00.006-05:00

Tonight we were invited to a very dear family's house to celebrate mine and hubs birthdays ... collectively, we are 109 ♥

We could not love this family anymore if they were our blood relatives.

Thanks for such a wonderful time tonight, Spencer family -

you are in our hearts forever!

And although this is an older picture... it's still one of my favorites!!

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

We have been celebrating all weekend long, but on Saturday, which was my real birthday, hubs gave me a card that had me bawling like a baby.

I just want to share it with you:

Someday, years from now, when we've been together a long long time,
we'll know each other so well, you'll finish my sentences and I 'll know where you left your glasses.
You'll forgive my bad habits and I'll ignore your little quirks.
And just when our life seems safe and predictable, you'll surprise me.
For there will always be a part of you that remains a wonderful mystery to me.

(inside)
Someday, years from now,
other people might look at us and see an old married couple, but I wont
Every time I look at you or touch you or kiss you,
I'll still see the amazing person I fell in love with long ago.
Happy Birthday.

Because of Him!

2010-04-02T07:28:00.003-05:00

I'm so thankful for the finished work on the Cross
and knowing that Christ died for ME.

I love You Lord
and I lift my voice
To worship You
O my soul, rejoice!

Take joy, my King
in what you hear
May it be a sweet, sweet sound
in Your ear.

Sneaky Peeky....

2010-03-30T09:34:00.008-05:00

Just wanted to share some news with you....

I am moving from the 15th to the 1st on the TDIPT Mercantile and (come Wednesday night) will have a new sweet-sweet to share with you.

Meet Emma Loo and Nibbles - who have managed to capture my heart! Emma Loo wants to remind everyone to never forget who your best friends are ♥

Yet Another Classic Comeback...

2010-03-30T09:04:00.005-05:00

In an recent interview, General Norman Schwarzkopf was asked if he thought there was room for forgiveness toward the people who have harbored and abetted the terrorists who perpetrated the 9/11 attacks on America.

His answer was classic Schwarzkopf.

The General said, "I believe that forgiving them is God's function .... OUR job is to arrange the meeting.

Best Comeback Line

2010-03-29T16:03:00.004-05:00

If you've ever testified in court, you might wish you could have been

as sharp as this policeman.

He was being cross-examined by a defense attorney during a felony trial.
The lawyer was trying to undermine the police officer's credibility .....

Q: 'Officer --- did you see my client fleeing the scene?'
A: 'No sir. But I subsequently observed a person matching the description of the offender, running several blocks away.'
Q: 'Officer -- who provided this description?'
A: 'The officer who responded to the scene.'
Q: 'A fellow officer provided the description of this so-called offender. Do you trust your fellow officers?'
A: 'Yes, sir. With my life.'
Q: 'With your life? Let me ask you this then officer. Do you have a room where you change your clothes in preparation for your daily duties?'
A: 'Yes sir, we do!'
Q: 'And do you have a locker in the room?'
A: 'Yes sir, I do.'
Q: 'And do you have a lock on your locker?'
A: 'Yes sir.'
Q: 'Now why is it, officer, if you trust your fellow officers with your life, you find it necessary to lock your locker in a room you share with these same officers?'

A: 'You see, sir -- we share the building with the court complex, and sometimes lawyers have been known to walk through that room.'

The courtroom EXPLODED with laughter, and a prompt recess was called. The officer on the stand has been nominated for this year's 'Best Comeback' line and I think he'll win.... don't you? :)

The Amazing Sully

2010-03-25T06:50:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to take a few seconds of your time to share photos of my amazing nephew -Sullivan Dorrell Lynch was born 3.10.10 ...

isn't he the sweetest?

This was his first trip to Border's Book store with mom and dad....

Sometimes it's a struggle to keep those eyes open (as we all know!!) ♥

Life is GOOD!

Sleepy Sweetness....

This has to be one of my favorite pictures of Sully so far ♥

with Aunt Cookie :)

This one is called "macarena hands"
play that funky music white boy....

And after all this work, it's nap time again
love you so much, big boy
x0

x0x0x0

2010 is an Election Year....

2010-03-20T19:13:00.004-05:00

Retribution can come in Nov, 2010!

Take a look at this and remember when elections come round in November 2010:

1. U..S. House & Senate have voted themselves $4,700 and $5,300 raises.
2. They voted to NOT give you a Social Security Cost of living raise in 2010 and 2011.
3. Your Medicare premiums will go up $285.60 for the 2-years
4. You will not get the 3% COLA: $660/yr.
5. Your total 2-yr loss and cost is -$1,600 or -$3,200 for husband and wife.
6. Over these same 2-years each Congress person will get anadditional $10,000
7. Do you feel SCREWED YET?
8. Will your cost of drugs,doctor fees, local taxes and food decrease? NO WAY!!.

Congress and all Federal Employees received a raise and have better health and retirement benefits than you or I will ever have!!!
AT NO COST TO THEM! (BTW, your taxes pay for it all)

And why should they care about us? We have never done anything about it in the past. They get away with it because we haven't done anything about it up till now. Do you really think that Nancy, Harry, Barney, et al, care about you?

Send this message out to BOTH parties: "YOU'RE FIRED!"

In 2010 you will have a chance to get rid of the sitting Congress: up to 1/3 of the Senate and 100% of the House!

Maybe it's time for Amendment 28 to the Constitution..

28th Amendment will be as follows:

"Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators or Representatives, and Congress shall make no law that applies to the Senators or Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States .."

All of these people in Washington have brought this upon themselves! It's time for retribution.

Let's take back America!

Don't Blame Obama....

2010-03-17T06:20:00.005-05:00

"The danger to America is not Barack Obama but a citizenry capable of entrusting a man like him with the presidency. It will be easier to limit and undo the follies of an Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense and good judgment to an electorate willing to have such a man for their president. The problem is much deeper and far more serious than Mr. Obama, who is a mere symptom of what ails us. Blaming the prince of the fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of fools that made him their prince. The republic can survive a Barack Obama. It is less likely to survive a multitude of fools such as those who made him their president.”

~Author Unknown

SWING TIME

2010-03-16T11:48:00.003-05:00

I have a wonderful Americana piece that takes me back to those summer days as a child,

playing without a care in the world.

"Swing Time" is available on the TDIPT Mercantile this month.

Cat and friends love spending the long lazy days

just watching with curiousity all the goings on around them.

I know this piece would look great in your prim home -

hanging on your front door or entry way, greeting all who enter!

Stop by the TDIPT Merc and check out all the wonderful offerings this month!

It's a BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!

2010-02-26T15:08:00.005-06:00

The TDIPT Mercantile is celebrating its 3rd birthday

and we invite you to join in the celebration!

It's hard to believe that 3 years have passed since opening day of the TDIPT Mercantile, and to celebrate, we are having a fabulous giveaway in honor of the grand event!

All of the prizes have been generously donated by our fabulous TDIPT artists. The celebration will begin on February 28th at 10:00 pm (ET). This is also when the 1st of the month artists will present their new offerings on the Mercantile for March. You will have until 9:00 pm (ET) time on March 21 to get your entry in for the drawing. The winners will be drawn at 10:00 pm on March 21!

There are 3 ways to enter the drawing:

1. Purchase an item from the Mercantile (either from the 1st of the month artists or the 15th of the month artists) and we will enter your name for each purchase you make.

2. If you are already on our mailing list to receive the TDIPT newsletter, you are automatically entered to win. If you are not signed up for the newsletter, please be sure to sign up on the Mercantile or on our TDIPT Blog.

3. If you are signed up as a follower on the TDIPT Blog, you are already entered to win. If not, please be sure to sign up to become a follower.

We hope you will join us for this festive occasion! We appreciate your loyal patronage and support of the artists of TDIPT Mercantile!

Birds of a Feather...

2010-02-23T12:25:00.002-06:00

The TDIPT group is having a launch currently on Ebay

and I've managed to make something to play along...

I call this piece

PRECIOUS CARGO

Mama and her designer backpack come packed full of wee babies, just waiting for the next worm to fill their bellies!

This is the first listing I have put on ebay for a very long time and it will load up Tuesday evening. When you have a minute, I would invite you to look me up on ebay - it will be a 5 day list, ending Sunday evening.

Also, just enter TDIPT in your ebay search to see all of the amazing handiwork from so many incredible artists!