What A Difference A Day Makes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Said It Never Snows In Southern California?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where's Fall?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starting Over

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

website goodies

Busy, Busy, Busy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Update on Eric's Injury

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

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

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

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

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

Time Flys

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

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

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

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

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

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

THANK A SOLDIER

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

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

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

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

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

Summer Sale at Mustard Seed Originals

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

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

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

Ready for Halloween?

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

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

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


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

Happy Friday the 13th!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hopefully on the Mend

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

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

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

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

Time for Updates

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

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

Long Time Away

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

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

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

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

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

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

A SAD DAY IN TDIPT

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

Some great blogs to share

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

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

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

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

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

1.Suzanne from Pear Tree Primitives;

2.Lorraine from Pie Cake Primitives and

3.Annie from Iblur or Alleghany Annie

Whew Glad that's done.

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

I've been Tagged

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

1. Link to the person that tagged you.

2. Post the rules on your blog.

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

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

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

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

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

Another Hump Day

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

Lots of Exciting News for March!!!

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

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

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

Annnnndddd theee Winnnersss Areee.....

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

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

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

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

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

Bloggy Giveaway Carnival~Jump on Board!!

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

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

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

Living with Fibromyalgia?

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

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

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

3)I am the designer behind Mustard Seed Originals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Easter Giveaway!!

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

Calgon Take Me Away!

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

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

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

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