Primitives by the light of the moon

Hooking and Hand Me a Tissue!

2012-01-25T23:58:00.000-06:00

Most late evenings I retreat to my lil' room. A place I leave this farmhouse and go around the world on the computer, watch or listen to a little tv, pull lots and lots of loops, paint, stitch, eat cookies and ice cream, pull more loops, visit blogs....well you get the idea. Today I went to town and bought a few groceries and a movie. My sisters have been telling me about the movie COURAGEOUS. Have you seen it?
Well this evening I pulled the hooking frame into the living room, gathered up my worms, hook and scissors and Danny and I watched the movie. If you haven't seen it I highly recommend it...get the tissue box your going to need it.

It will clearly make any parent think about how you are raising your children. How you are living your life. What is important today, right now! So as a parent or even if your not....take time out of your busy day, call or go see someone you love. Send someone a real card or hand written letter...just let them know you are thinking of them. Take just a moment and do something for the ones you love. You will be rewarded more than you can imagine.

Well during the movie I did manage to finish hooking up a couple of pieces. I made the little dog from one of Frank Bielec's designs and the rabbit I drew myself. I changed the red flower to yellow to make it show up better.

Tomorrow is another day....I'll be baking a cake and making a couple of big batches of soup. Friends will be coming Friday for a time of crafting fun. The wood is piled by the stove ready to heat the room and the rain has come and gone.

Enjoy your new day!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Crayola Watercolors While We Wait....

2012-01-24T19:30:00.005-06:00

It doesn't take a lot to entertain a lil' boy! Crayola Watercolor has some really great colors in the 24 pack and it works perfect for a 4 year old as well as his Momo!

Guess what he is painting....look out it's alien and zombie blood. Ewww that's right he's all boy!

Did you know you can turn blobs into flowers?

Just add a little black sharpie pen to the blobs and there you go. I like to make little thank you cards to put in items I ship. Just something a certain little boy and I can do while we wait for his folks to pick him up for the evening.

It has started raining and we can use each and every drop. It's been way too dry for way too long. Well got a group of gals coming over on Friday so better clean up a mess or two!!!!

Happy Trails....Ginger

The Wool Dust Has Been Flying!

2012-01-22T22:29:00.004-06:00

Hooked, bound, and signed...I hooked them all last week and finished binding them tonight.
They are all small pieces that were simply made from the scrapbasket! Is the scrapbasket empty...hardly even made a dent :)

I have a few ideas for this upcoming week. I've been wanting to do a little dog so that is on the list. Maybe a cat and a bird! How about a flower or two? A house or snowman....the possibilities are endless.

Thank you for all the well wishes...the cold is hanging on but you just keep going :)

Guess I better find a broom and sweep up the dust. Wishing each of you a week packed full of family, friends, and fun.

Happy Trails....Ginger

An Antique Inspired Rug

2012-01-21T21:16:00.004-06:00

I'm working on a number of rugs. Today I'll share the progress on this antique inspired rug. An American Prim Gathering group is working on this rug as a bit of a challenge. Two days of on and off hooking and this is what I have accomplished.

I've also been whipping on a few small mats....seems it takes me awhile to get that part done.

Sniff...Sniff....been battling a head cold and a sore throat. Very rare I have a cold. Maybe a chocolate chip cookie will help :)

Well back to the binding!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Wool and Watercolor

2012-01-15T15:30:00.003-06:00

I've been using up a few of the scrapbasket worms. Didn't hardly make a dent in the overflowing basket. Oh well they will be there when I get to them.

I go from one thing to another seems I want to do it all at once. Playing with watercolors again. Might just hook a rug or two with these lil' patterns.

Well I'm off to help haul off some calves to the market with Danny. My mom and dad have 26 of the lil' ones ready to go. Yippeee Ti Yi Ya....get along lil' doggies.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Brrr...It's Cold!

2012-01-12T19:37:00.003-06:00

Spring temps last week and bone chilling temps today. The winds blowing up to 40 miles an hour makes for one cold day!

Finished up another rug and even got it bound today :)

I'm anxious to get started on another so guess I'll see what will come out of the scrap basket since it seems to be overflowing!

Hope your staying nice and warm wherever you may be.

Happy Trails...Ginger

Cows~Spinach~Wool

2012-01-09T23:22:00.008-06:00

Did you know that not only are cattle a great source for milk and beef they also can be used in heart surgery! Several years ago I awoke from a 2nd heart surgery to find that they had used cow pericardium(lining of the heart) to repair part of my heart....Now I'm just moooovalus!

I do enjoy the cattle we have out here on the farm. I like watching the momma's with their lil' calves and how the calves play in the fields.

Lately, I have been making smoothies with spinach leaves....I know sounds absolutely gross. But I can't even taste the spinach and spinach is suppose to be really good for you. I have been saving the containers and they are perfect for holding cut wool worms. Great for a take along project.

I am working on the scrapbasket of worms that continue to multiple. I simply hooked these lil' hearts straight into a wool backing. A quick and easy project.

Been working on the "Give Ye Thanks" rug a little.....I have another rug I need to get started as a group challenge. As usual I like to keep several projects going at once.

It's been a bit chilly here and maybe we will get some much needed rain tomorrow! We will take any bit of moisture we can get as we have been in a dry spell for too long.

Have you noticed this has been one crazy post???? This is how my silly brain works...I go from one thing to another constantly. It's as if my mind never slows down.

So with that said...I've gathered up some wool, my hook, and scissors and drew off a simple little rug mat and I'm going tomorrow afternoon for a little hooking time with some friends....I can hardly wait! Hope your week is filled with family, friends, and fun things you love to do.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Sure Felt Like Spring Today!

2012-01-05T20:12:00.008-06:00

It was a most beautiful day today with temps going into the 60's. So here is how Sloan and I spent the afternoon...hope you enjoy the sunshine! He ran out of steam a few times and yes he does have a growly face at times who doesn't???

We had races, played at the park, I took pics, he took pics, piggy back rides were a must, just another day on one of our adventures...want to come along?

I was worn out he was worn out but alas no nap today! He will be back over in the morning for another adventure wonder what we will do????

Happy Trails....Ginger

Old and New Adventures

2012-01-05T00:24:00.006-06:00

Just finished another hooked mat and it's bound...hooray! That is one of my goals this year keep up on the binding :)

Another goal is trying new things...I'm taking a couple of online classes just for fun and it also works into my schedule.

The first one is a Life Journal of 2012...going to try and document 2012 and a few things I did along the way.

This project is a class by Stephanie of Homegrown Hospitality.

Next a class in creating something everyday for 30 days.

It's a class of doodling, painting, sketching, taking photos. and looking for inspiration in what is around you. Here is my lil' doodle and watercolor inspired by Kiwi fruit.
This class is by Alisa Burke...stop by her blog you will be amazed at what she creates and with a new lil' baby girl.

And if that isn't enough new starts....

I have been crocheting since I was just a lil' kid but have decided I want to try knitting so found some good online videos and talked with a lady in a yarn shop about some sites online to check out and look it's not pretty by any means but it's a beginning!

So I encourage you to step out of the comfort zone and give something new a try!

Happy Trails...Ginger

Oh The Joys of A New Year!

2012-01-01T17:56:00.005-06:00

As one year has closed yet another one has already begun. We celebrated the day by going to church this morning then having both of our families over for lunch. Everyone always brings a dish or two or three! We visit and the kids play. The dishes and food are taken care of and then the house becomes quiet again except for the occasional snoring I hear from the other room :)

One of the goals for this new year was to complete some of the patterns I have purchased over the last few years. Pati and Sandra also have the same rug pattern so we will be working on them and have set a goal to finish at least 3 this year.

Of course there will be other ones along the way but we do have several alike we want to do.

Here is the start to my "Give Ye Thanks" by Lori Brechlin of Notforgotten Farm.

Here it is right before I put it on the frame.

Pati about to begin work on hers.

Sandra showing one she is almost finished with.

Sandra did get her roof done!

Pati got quite a bit done, too!

Well I have several goals for this year and if they get done hooray and if they don't well no worries!

One of my goals is to get more walking in so with that said I'm off to do just that.

Happy New Year to each of you and many thanks for stopping by to take a peek into our lives out here on the farm!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Farewell 2011

2011-12-31T01:13:00.002-06:00

As the New Year comes and the old year is going...I think back over what we have done. It's been a year filled with so many blessings. It's true as you grow older the days do go by faster and you treasure the simple things of life.

So what are my plans for the new year :) It's like a fresh new slate ready to be written upon. I've been thinking of things I would like to accomplish this next year. Not a resolution of sorts but perhaps goals. A daily journal is on my agenda.

I have a list of sorts that I have been working on for the upcoming year....changes hopefully for the good. A time to simplify a few things, a year of giving, finishing many UFO's, more studying God's word and praying, time for doing for others, and more time spent with friends and family.

So as the year of 2011 ends another one begins....let's see what 2012 will hold!

I finished this rug today it's been hooked for quite awhile but I ran the needle and thread with the last stitch. It's bound and I will keep this one. I began it as a hit and miss rug going round and round and then added the house, a heart, horse, and flowers. Nothing was really planned it just happened...so is life sometimes things just happen but it all falls into place somehow :)

Wishing each of you a New Year filled to the brim with the SIMPLE JOYS of life!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Walk Across The Farm

2011-12-29T17:58:00.005-06:00

With today being in the 60's it was great to get outside and go for a walk.

Not to windy just a nice breeze!

Home the nicest word there is....Laura Ingalls Wilder said it well!

Always work to be done!

The scary barn....beware if you go in no telling what is lurking in there!

Mooooving right along :)

The Hay Barn and loading lot.

Oklahoma sunset

Miss Kitty letting me know it's time for supper.

Well I'm sure that was my last walk about the farm for 2011. Tomorrow brings a day at work. Friends are coming over on Saturday for a day of crafting!

Hope you are having nice weather wherever you may be :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

Free Doodle "Love Built A Home"

2011-12-28T18:17:00.004-06:00

I've been pulling a few loops and just need to steam and bind this little mat. Thought I would share the pattern with you!

My little mat measures 10 x 12 inches before binding. Feel free to use it however you choose.

Happy Trails...Ginger

Peace On Earth and Goodwill to Men

2011-12-25T01:16:00.002-06:00

Wishing each of you the blessings of JOY on this Christmas Day! May we all truly know the real meaning of Christmas and come adore on bended knee giving thanks to Christ the King!

May all of Heaven and Nature sing today!

Merry CHRISTmas......Ginger

Santa's Grinning and I am Too!

2011-12-24T01:40:00.003-06:00

Tis Christmas Eve and I'm thrilled to pieces that I was the very lucky winner of the "Grinning Santa" from Lori of Notforgotten Farm. He is just the sweetest guy and brings a smile everytime I look at it! Thank you Lori I'll treasure it always :)

Finally the packages are wrapped and under the tree. Sloan and I baked dozens and dozens of cookies to give out to the neighbors and a few old~time friends. Of course we had to have a few ourselves. I even found the lil' toot attached to my cookie jar with his handcuffs. He does love cookies!

We have a busy day ahead of us....a surprise for Danny's folks that we need to put together and then there is lots of cooking and still some cleaning to do. I'm hoping to add the movie It's a Wonderful life in there somewhere. I watch it every year and haven't seen it yet!

Wishing each of you a day filled with Christmas excitement.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Polly Wolly Doodle All Day!

2011-12-21T00:24:00.004-06:00

Well I didn't actually doodle all day...Just a tiny bit this evening. I signed up for watercolor classes at the local vocational school to start February of 2012 maybe then I'll figure out what I'm doing! In the meantime I drew up a lil' doodle of Sloan waiting on a snowflake. He wants to build a snowman so maybe we will get some flakes soon :)

My sis "Jane" gave me a sketch book for my birthday and here is a peek of one of my doodles. Reminds me of our childhood!

Fare thee well, fare thee well,
fare thee well my fairy Fay
for I'm off to Lou'siana for to see my Susyanna
sing Polly wolly doodle all the day
Oh, my Sal, she is a maiden fair
sing Polly wolly doodle all the day
with curly eyes and laughing hair
sing Polly wolly doodle all the day

Well tomorrow is a work day so better gather up a few little crafty things to bring along and a movie or two for Sloan and something crafty for him to do!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Lots of Loops and Look OuT!!!!

2011-12-19T21:25:00.006-06:00

I've been hooking like crazy lately in between the wrapping of gifts, playing with Sloan, painting the nursery at our daughter and son in law's home, baking batches and batches of cookies...so pulling loops well it relaxes me. Finished this one over the weekend and before it was even complete it was spoken for.

Drew this one up with February in mind...do you see the black lil' legs and the dotted snowflakes....well a certain little boy who shall remain nameless but will later be featured in this post thought he would draw some extras. He does love my sharpies! Think I may let him draw me a pattern he is becoming quite the artist :)

Using up some blues in the scrap basket...another one to bind!

Had some of the dirty yellows left over so of course another snowman and heart.

Look I did get one bound...the Mr. Chill rug by Kathy over at the Orange Sink's design. So I'm enjoying this one and will for years and years to come!

Scrapbasket woolies fashioned into a heart mug rug...still need bound.

Log Cabin Mug rug...yep this one needs bound, too.

Simple basket of posies mug rug...where is that needle and thread!

House and flowers mug rug...also from wooley scraps.

Well I've put the hook up and found my needle and thread so I'll be binding for the next couple of days.

Today my little guy and I built a fort of quilts, sheets, bar stools and a card table. He is a silly and onery lil' guy always keeping me on my toes!

Tomorrow we may have to pull out some more tables and make a tunnel to our fort at least it keeps him busy!

Now for the look out....we gave him an early Christmas present and he asked me today as he was driving around the yard if he need a Driver's License to drive this. I beginning to think he may need driver's ed because he wants to drive with one hand, wave, and look where he has been more than where he is going! So look out if you see a little blue electric four wheeler we have an unlicensed driver with a sense for the need to speed.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Dirty Santa The Game....

2011-12-15T13:24:00.004-06:00

Several have asked what is "Dirty Santa"....well I've been playing it for years. Our little rug hooking group decided we would play at our Christmas party.
We had decided to each hook, stitch, punch, or create whatever we chose as a handmade gift. Each person wraps it up with no name attached.

We had 10 people at our party and 10 gifts. Each person draws a number out of the basket from 1 to 10. One goes first and picks a gift to unwrap. Number 2 has the option of "stealing" #1's gift or opening one. Then the person with #3 can "steal" #1's or #2's gift or open one. Once the gift has been stolen twice it belongs to the 3rd person to be holding it. Since #1 person didn't get an option to "steal" they get to as the very last person if they choose to do so.

"Stealing"....such a bad word!

I whole~heartedly admit I'M A THIEF....I stole this wonderful hooked rug. Pati is requesting that it should have been her's and I admit it should have...so I'll just hook her one and Sandra wants one too. Our good friend Ann made this one and I just love it!

We play Dirty Santa at our church Christmas dinner, too. Loads of fun maybe you can find a group that would like to play!

I made the stocking that Kay is holding. It was filled with greenery and wool.

My good friend Sandra dyed these gorgeous wools and gave them to me....I don't know if I can cut them up they look so good.

Sloan is back and he is worn out. He is snoozing as I type. I have a small tree for him to decorate but it may have to wait until the weekend. He is coming over to stay this weekend and we have popcorn parties, a birthday party for my niece and daughter and a movie date planned....guess he better rest while he can!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Water Colors and Woolley Nights!

2011-12-14T01:41:00.003-06:00

Old habits are hard to break! I'm getting sleepy very sleepy....that's what I'm telling myself anyway :) There is a pillow in there calling my name and in a few minutes I'm going to go find it! It's hard to put down the paintbrush, pens, and......

the wool and hook! Started this rug from the scraps left in the bowl from the previous rug.

I'll be picking up a paintbrush and roller later....I'm trading out a couple nights of painting Miss Eva Mae's nursery in exchange for Jenn wrapping presents for me!

She is decorating with owls so it should be a "Hoot" to see what she has planned :)

Happy Trails...Ginger

Christmas Party With Friends

2011-12-13T19:53:00.003-06:00

It's so fun to get together and enjoy some time hooking, eating some wonderful snacks, visit, and then play Dirty Santa.

Carol, Pati and CJ

Kaye, Cynthia, and Ann

Two fun, loving girls that always makes you smile....Sandra and Pati!!!!

Ahh such a fun day! Missing my little sidekick he went to visit his other grandparents but will be back tomorrow evening so Thursday we will have a lot of catching up to do!

Happy Trails...Ginger

Treasures and More Treasures!

2011-12-10T15:01:00.005-06:00

What a load of treasures I received this week. Chelle sent me these most beautifully stitched ornies, pocket filled with wool and lovely embroidery flosses. We have a secret santa gift exchange on our eBay group "AAPG" or otherwise known as USAPRIM on ebay. She stitched up each of these pieces and with having 2 active boys I'm not sure where she found the time but I'm so glad she did. I just LOVE each and every detail she put into it. I feel very blessed to have her hand~stitched goodies. Thank you Chelle I shall treasure them always.

Then on Thursday evening I went into Purcell to attend the annual Christmas parade and met a good friend for supper. She gave me these wonderful smelling lotions that will feel so good throughout the winter months. Thank you Teresa for the wonderful evening of catching up.

Pati Jane surprised me with these wonderful goodies she handmade. She puts her heart into all she does. The old cheesebox with the greenery, lights, Gingerbread girl, and little ornaments are prim perfect.

Then if that wasn't enough this little pocket that she started back in February. It is a pattern by Primitive Betty. I had watched her start this project and work on it on and off. It is such a special gift. It was her first one using this kind of linen and I admire every stitch of it. What a blessing Pati has been in my life....she has truly become an addition to our family.

The gifts above were held by this wonderful primitive basket....I'm sure I'll find some goodies to go inside. Thank you so much Pati...

Well my heart is truly full not just by the giving of the gifts but by the thoughtfulness of each of you. You are all such dear friends and I'm truly blessed.

Happy Trails....Ginger

In The Meadow.....

2011-12-06T23:21:00.002-06:00

We can build a snowman. Well if you can't have flakes falling from the sky you can certainly build one with wool. Just about got this one done and I have enjoyed every loop of it. Just need to finish the border and bind it. It has already become one of my FAVORITES!

Sloan and I will be baking cookies and making candy tomorrow. He wants to add "glitter" to the sugar cookies so guess he will be busy with the sprinkles. Now if I can just resist eating them!

Happy Trails...Ginger

Microwave Coconut Cream Pie

2011-12-05T20:20:00.003-06:00

Now this is one quick and easy homemade coconut pie and it really tastes GOOD!
I'll give you the recipe below....

Got a few more loops pulled this afternoon on this delightful rug! If you would like a pattern you might check with Cathy over at the Orange Sink if she has any available. I hope to have the hooking finished by tomorrow....then I'm going to set down and get it bound!

Okay....here is the pie recipe!

Microwave Coconut Cream Pie

Ingredients
*3 cups of milk
*6 large eggs- room temperature- separated
*1 cup white sugar
*1/2 cup all-purpose flour
*1/4 tsp salt
*1/2 stick butter
*1 small (3 1/2 ounce) can sweetened flaked coconut
*1 tablespoon vanilla extract
*10-inch baked pie crust

Directions
1.In a very large microwave safe bowl combine the sugar, flour, and salt, stir to combine.
2.Separate the egg yolks from the whites, keep the whites for your meringue.
3.Beat the egg yolks with a whisk and slowly mix in the milk.
4.Gradually stir the milk and egg mixture into the sugar and flour mixture.
5.Microwave on high whisking often. AS mixture begins to thicken whisk hard and often.
6.When mixture is very thick remove from the microwave and add butter, vanilla, and coconut. Stir well to combine.
7.Turn mixture into backed pie crust, cover with meringue and bake in a 350 degree oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until meringue is golden.

Meringue
6 egg whites
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup sugar

Beat eggs whites, vanilla, and cream of tartar until they hold soft peaks. Then gradually add sugar a little at a time beating well after each addition until all sugar has been added. Beat until sugar is dissolved. Top pie and bake.

Now that the pie has cooled down....think I'll go cut a piece!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Just Chillin'

2011-12-05T14:38:00.003-06:00

You just never know what "creature" may be lurking in my wooley worms! Just started my "Mr. Chill" Rug this morning. Between the laundry, feeding one HUNGRY lil' boy, fixing lunch for the guys, doing a few dishes, I managed to get quite a bit done.

Off to do another load of laundry...It never ends does it! Oh well we have clothes to wear and warm food to eat, so I'm not complaining. Then it's back to a few loops, maybe a story or two for a soon to be sleepy boy (I can only hope) and then it will be time to fix supper and homemade coconut pie....mmhhh.

So how is your day been so far????

Happy Trails....Ginger

An Empty Pipe~ Free Doodle

2011-12-04T22:24:00.002-06:00

Well we all know smoking isn't good for you so Frosty enjoys an empty pipe! Drew up this lil' doodle just for the Holiday season. Feel free to right click and print it out. Use just Frosty or Santa or both!

Been doodling a little more using some hang tags and a couple of book marks.

I'm kind of itching to get back to the wool. I purchased a snowman pattern from Cathy over at the Orange Sink and I want to have it done before Christmas comes! So better pull out some wool and get busy!

Oh and a little funny story. Our grandson "Sloan" goes to MoMO's day out twice a week for a couple of hours and really loves playing with the other kids. Well he has informed me he has a "girlfriend" and tells us that she is the MOST BEAUTIFUL Woman in town and that she has really nice hair and good brains! Boy are we going to be in trouble when he is a teenager! Hope you got a chuckle.....I know we did!

Wishing each of you a warm and cozy week filled to the brim with Holiday Cheer :)

Happy Trails...Ginger

Christmas Doodling

2011-12-03T17:51:00.003-06:00

I wish I had taken the opportunity to take classes in Art while in High School but my head was stuck in the clouds drooling over a certain guy which I just happened to marry! My head is still stuck in the clouds most days and yes I still drool occasionally but usually over wool, art supplies, fabric, yarn, and yes still Danny! As always time goes on and with this new age of internet there is classes available any time of the day or NIGHT. So I've been trying out a little watercolor here and there who knows if it is right or wrong but I'm liking it.

I grabbed some large drawing paper and cut it down that someone gave to Sloan. He has to share too, right?

I've been making a little accordion card of sorts just for fun with some of my doodles . The lettering has been fun adds that little touch to things. I'm taking a class online just because! Here is the link if you would like to check it out!

Well I had a great time earlier today. Danny and I went to a craft show in Mustang, Ok and we met Pati there. Two of Danny's sisters had a booth there so it was a nice little visit. Of course I found a few things to buy for some guys and gals on my Christmas list! Then we were off to have lunch with Pati. A few more stops along the way and were back home and I've got the laundry going and the wool and hook is calling my name. Guess I better go pull a few loops!

Have a wonderful weekend and hope your Holiday season is MERRY and BRIGHT!

Happy Trails....Ginger

One More Trip

2011-12-01T00:11:00.004-06:00

What a wonderful day Sloan and I had yesterday....yes it's after midnight here in Oklahoma. We made one last trip to the zoo for the year. The weather was wonderful a little cool but not windy just a perfect day.
He loves feeding the Leerakets and they love the nectar.

We decided this guy sure looks sad setting inside. He must be awful bored. Do you see the little bald patch on Sloan. His mom said he got ahold of her brother's clippers and gave himself a haircut! Oh well it will grow back!

Been pulling loops again. Hope you have found some time this week to do something you enjoy!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Santa Claus Is Coming!

2011-11-29T19:12:00.005-06:00

You Better Watch Out....You Better Not Pout.....You Better Not Cry.....I'm Telling You Why.....

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!

I've got me one happy lil' elf all excited for Christmas. Hope your days are Merry and Bright!

Just listed a lot of things on ETSY all in time for Christmas!

We are suppose to have a wintery mix coming in this weekend....time to get the cocoa, wood for the stove, and some projects ready to work on! Wherever you are hope your staying nice and warm!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Day Of Happiness!

2011-11-28T23:03:00.007-06:00

I received a tremendous amount of birthday wishes and it really was such a heartwarming day! My sisters always find the most interesting cards, especially my sis "Sherry" we have been giving each other several cards each birthday and it's fun to collect them throughout the year for each other.

Inside this one it says....."Right your kids are almost as old as you!"

Sad thing is they are getting close to that mark!

This one says tie it around your butt! Thanks to my lil' sis Bobbie for this one!

Now for the best part of the day we found out today Jenn and Ryan will be having a little girl next April....Danny had it predicted and he was right. They have chosen the name Eva Mae and she is growing just fine!

I met the kids and my Mom and Dad for a dinner at a local Mexican restaurant and then Sloan announced he was coming to spend the night. He told his Dad he was staying for 10 days.....Oh boy! He is here snoring as I type!

I also want to show you what came in the mail a few days ago. A very SPECIAL friend made me this beautiful cross~stitch runner and a hooked Christmas tree pin. Also, included was a stash of goodies for Sloan which he was thrilled with. You know who you are and I just want you to know it still makes me smile just knowing you stitched it up just for me!

Well what a full day filled with so many blessings! My heart is overflowing with thankfulness!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Drumroll......The winner is!

2011-11-24T22:41:00.004-06:00

Thanks to all who entered the Thanksgiving giveaway of the Little Drummer Hooked Rug and the winner is Sharon of Moosecraft. It will be on it's way soon!

Pati Jane and I have listed a few items on our blog Prairie Moon Primitives. We would love for you to stop by and check out a few of our offerings. You might just see something that tickles your fancy!

We all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and now it's time to get the house decorated for Christmas and get busy shopping. I'm not a big shopper so may have to get my favorite elf to help me out!

Happy Trails...Ginger

A Day of Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T01:34:00.004-06:00

Just want to take this time and say how very thankful I am for my family and friends! Thanksgiving has always been a special time for me....I love to think back on my childhood days and all the wonderful memories we all made. Some bring tears to my eyes knowing that those days are so long gone but then I think of the wonderful new memories that are yet to be made!

Danny started a fire in the wood stove late last night and the smell of the wood brought back so many memories...memories of both of my Grandma's now both resting in the arms of the Lord. I do miss them dearly!

So with that take time to reflect on all the blessings we have each and every day and tell those near and dear that you LOVE them for this is a time of THANKSGIVING!

We plough the fields and scatter
The good seed on the land,
But it is fed and watered
By God's almighty hand:
He sends the snow in winter,
The warmth to swell the grain,
The breezes and the sunshine,
And soft, refreshing rain.

Refrain:
All good gifts around us
Are sent from heaven above;
Then thank the Lord,
O thank the Lord,
For all his love.

He only is the maker
Of all things near and far;
He paints the wayside flower,
He lights the evening star;
The winds and waves obey him,
By him the birds are fed;
Much more to us, his children,
He gives our daily bread.

We thank thee then, O Father,
For all things bright and good,
The seed time and the harvest,
Our life, our health, our food.
Accept the gifts we offer
For all thy love imparts,
And what thou most desirest,
Our humble, thankful hearts.

************************************************************

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Back to Playing Hookie and A Road Trip

2011-11-21T21:03:00.007-06:00

I do love pulling those wool loops and yes I'm even binding! Pati Jane and I will be updating our selling blog in a few days so need to keep those hands busy!

We took a quick road trip with our daughter and son in law over the weekend. We headed to Branson and had a great time. On the way home we stopped at this CRAZY Antique shop...it was a bit on the scary side!

They had lots of everything....need a fire hydrant or a mini ferris wheel?

Old pumps...

Need to save on electricity...how about a lantern?

Cast iron skillet or cornbread pan?

All sizes and styles of crocks!

Jenn and Ryan found a really cool 4 x 4 Bug while in Branson. We enjoyed Silver Dollar City and a little bit of shopping. In no time it was time to head home again for another work week.

If you haven't entered the giveaway be sure to leave a comment on the previous post...the winner will be announced Thanksgiving evening.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Thanksgiving Giveaway!

2011-11-14T17:44:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving is a time of giving Thanks and I'm very thankful for all my blog friends and I'll be giving away this rug that I hooked to one of you. It is a wonderful design by Star Rug Company.

So to enter be a follower of this blog and just leave a comment and if you don't have a blog be sure and leave an email address just incase your the winner.

Drawing will be Thanksgiving evening.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Craft Fair and Fried Pies!

2011-11-13T23:01:00.003-06:00

We had a fun time at the Bethesda Craft Fair in Oklahoma City. Pati Jane and Sandra caught in action in the booth.

I have to say that the ladies that hosted the craft fair was probably the most hospitable group that I have ever met. The ease of set up and of course the grand offering of homemade food. Beginning with a bowl of stew and cornbread on the night of set up.

On Friday and Saturday they served Indian tacos or you could choose hamburgers or nachos. The tacos were delicious and filling! Homemade pies were also very tempting. I did enjoy a warm apricot fried pie...and I have to say it was the most wonderful fried pie I have ever had!

Oh don't let me forget the ladies that hosted the event came around to each booth and passed out fresh from the oven homemade rolls with butter :)

Pati and I did pretty good at the show but most of all we had a great time visiting! We decided to start a new blog together and offer some of our primitive handmades. We are calling it Prairie Moon Primitives and I hope you will check often to see what we have to offer.

Well it's time to climb back on the exercise wagon (those fried pies will do that to you) and get back to being healthy! I do enjoy desserts but they do seem to stick around if you know what I mean :(

Tomorrow I'm going to get some things together and have a giveaway so be sure to check back for a chance to win!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Hook and Ink

2011-11-08T21:54:00.003-06:00

I had a wonderful time today going to the monthly rug hooking. A big thanks to my Mom~in~Law for watching Sloan so I could go. We had such a good time. My pics of all the rugs that everyone made didn't turn out so be sure and stop by Pati's blog to see the beautiful pieces! I started this chairpad and had it finished when I left....quick and easy and a pattern by Wendy Miller of The Red Saltbox.

This evening I've been doodling around and I've been having fun trying out all kinds of faces. I read a book about using alphabet letters as part of the face. I used a few in some of them...

Well the talk of the state is all the Earthquakes and it is a bit of an eerie feeling. Then we have had lots of much needed rain even some flooding in areas....It's been one crazy year of weather!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Buried beneath....

2011-11-07T16:07:00.003-06:00

Buried beneath all this stuff is a rug hook...surely! No the earthquake didn't shake all this loose! I'm terrible about waiting until the last minute to get things together. Oh just have a craft show to be at this weekend but no cause for alarm it's just going to be one of those weeks where I need to get busy and finish a bunch of things and hey if I don't it is what it is!

Tonight I will find that hook and some wool and pull a few loops it's been way too long! Homemade chicken pot pie for supper and rug hooking couldn't ask for a better evening.

Oops and I forgot that I was going to have a giveaway so I'll see what I can come up with this week so check back soon!

Happy Trails...Ginger

Pocket Warmers

2011-11-02T20:35:00.004-05:00

The wind is HOWLING across the Oklahoma Plains and thank goodness we don't have snow or it would be a blizzard outside. So just in time for all those cold hands how about some pocket warmers. They were super easy to make and I found the directions here.

Wouldn't they feel good at a ballgame or when your spending time outside on a cold wintery day! Great for kids waiting on the bus, too.

Walking around the yard today this was waving bravely in the wind...one last hoorah before the freeze comes in tonight!

Hope your staying warm in your neck of the woods :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

On The Go Stitching!

2011-11-01T23:11:00.004-05:00

Here it is November once again and the days are certainly getting shorter and my nights seem to be getting longer! Got to have my therapy of pulling a needle and thread, hooking a rug, or something crafty!

I admit it....I don't sit still very well and if I do likely you'll find me dozing. So I like to have projects ready to go at a moments notice. These patterns are by Bareroots. I really like the simplicity of them. They were suppose to be candle wraps but I made a few as small penny rugs.

I'm hoping to find my flannel tomorrow evening for a lil' project I found that I want to do. If I get some made up in the next couple of days I'll share them with you.

Seems like we are going to be hit with a cold snap this week and I don't mind one bit. Might even have to find some hot cocoa and settle in a comfy chair and whip up a few projects!

I'm thinking of having another giveaway soon so check back next week and see what I come up with :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

Toot! Toot!

2011-10-30T22:55:00.005-05:00

I yam what I yam ! and I've had all I can stand, I can't stands no more! That's my niece Erin...she is a junior in HS and plays in the band. She looks great as Popeye!

Our nephew John is a senior this year and has played football since he was very young. He is #74! He plays defense and offence and it's hard to believe both of these kids are almost finished with High School!

\

Jenn and Sloan decorating cupcakes last night! Sloan loves visiting with Aunt Jenn :)

/

We had a wonderful time this evening...our church family came over for a fall festival with a delicious meal of soups, chili, enchiladas...and some of the best homemade desserts! Later in the evening we had a benefit auction.

Sloan with some of his cousins and Aunt Jenn! Yes the lil' toot is the scary one...he loves scaring the girls!

Wishing each of you a Happy and Safe Halloween :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

~Primitive Packaging~

2011-10-28T16:07:00.004-05:00

Pati Jane and I will soon be doing a craft show and as usual I've waited until the last couple of weeks to try and get something done. Oh I have plenty of ideas and things started.....sometimes I think my mind works on overload! So many things I want to make and so little time!

I decided to make some primitive package toppers for some of my bags....now to just get the things made that goes inside the lil' bags!

These lil' cards are for holding pins. Simple and primitive!

Well better get back to working on some of those things I have started!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Frosty Around Here!

2011-10-27T00:05:00.000-05:00

I've been playing with the markers again! I drew these cute lil' guys and gals on card stock and out came the markers....may just have to turn some of these designs into punch needle and hooked rugs! Now to find some time :)

Well...the wind is howling outside and the long sleeved shirts are feeling pretty good against the cool breeze. Part of Oklahoma is having snowflakes falling and we are getting some little rain showers. We still need all the moisture we can get!

Jenn our daughter had an ultrasound last week and it's so exciting to see the new little one...still in suspense if it's a boy or girl :) either way it's loved!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Trip To Texas

2011-10-26T16:29:00.005-05:00

A time spent relaxing, fishing, and enjoying family!

The temperature is dropping and the winds have changed out of the north....sweater weather is here! I'm going to pull some wool and dust off my hook and see if I remember how to make something :)

We are planning a church fall gathering here for this weekend and looks like the weather will be perfect.....hope you are enjoying your fall days!

Happy Trails....Ginger

How to Call A Squirrel

2011-10-24T22:11:00.004-05:00

We are back from vacation....and this lil' one just makes my day!

We had a great time in Texas and I'll share a few photo's tomorrow....Still catching up around the house.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Coming May, 2012

2011-10-13T22:31:00.004-05:00

We will be having another "Happy Trails Oxford Punch Workshop" with Frank Bielec. It will be held on May 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2012. If you are interested in attending we do have a few spaces left. Just click on the cows on the right and email me and I'll send you the information.

It's a fun workshop and you go home with a completed project!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Well Lookie Here

2011-10-12T16:36:00.003-05:00

It's October 12th once again and this cute guy just turned 49!

Got to say LOVE this guy! Happy Birthday Danny may you always keep on smilin'......

Love ya...

Happy Trails....Ginger

Crafting and Playing

2011-10-11T21:37:00.004-05:00

Punch, Punch, Punch....oxford punch needle that is! Finished up two lil' mats in a day. Joy is a mat that was inspired by a pattern by Kelley Belfast.

This lil' snowguy was just drawn straight on monk's cloth. Both of these were made with yarn and punched. Quick little projects :)

My lil' guy spent the night last night and he was providing us with entertainment....never a dull moment for sure!

Don't you love the chocolate milk mustache :)

We have been getting some much needed rain and for that we sure are thankful. More is on the way for tonight and it sure feels good to have the windows open and that nice smell of rain floating right on in!

My sister~in~laws are busily working on getting ready for a new adventure. They are opening up a gift shop Patty Cake Originals named for their Mom. I'll have more updates on that in the weeks to come.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Happy Birthday Sloan*

2011-10-09T17:22:00.005-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday Sloan!

It's hard to believe but our lil' grandson turned 4 today. He has talked non-stop for weeks about having about having a costume party for his birthday. His mom and dad did a wonderful job decorating and lots of kids and adults came dressed up.

Boy don't they grow up too fast!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Closer Look

2011-10-08T12:15:00.004-05:00

Here it is Saturday and the day couldn't be nicer. I'm setting in my room surrounded with wool strips a big cup of ice tea and pulling loops. The windows are open and the cool air is rushing in. Rain is in the forecast for tomorrow and I'm hoping it stays around for awhile. We just had two of our ponds dug out with a big trencher and they look so nice but would look so much better full of water. Since we have been in a drought this summer they have really gotten low and we might as well take advantage and enlarge them while we can.

I've been working on a few coasters mainly just hit and miss. The scrap basket of worms is always full :)

Last week the house was buzzing with ladies making things in Frank's workshop. I did finish punching on mine. Now to get this lil' guy totally finished!

Here is some closer pics of what everyone else finished. We had snowladies. This one was made by my mother~in~law. She had never oxford punched before and didn't she do a wonderful job on hers.

Nancy made a sheep. Love the colors.

Then we had some monsters and a pumpkin guy!

Then a heart needle case, snowman, scarecrow, and santa.

Redgie made a scarecrow and Teresa made a pilgrim. I met these gals a few years ago at the Lenexa hook~in and they have become such good friends.

Becky finished a santa!

My SIL "Karen" made a snowman on one side....

And a Uncle Sam on the other!

Frank punched this scarecrow. Oxford punch is a fun and fast way to make lots of things besides rugs.....You can put it on boxes, benches, make them into needle cases, pillows, flip dolls and so much more.

Well think I'll take a break and go for a walk...

Happy Trails......Ginger

~Cooler Days~

2011-10-05T22:28:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love Autumn...the windows wide open with the cool breeze filling our home. The birds busily chirping to one another and listening to the cows softly calling to their calves. The rustle of the leaves as they are quickly dropping from the trees and the pop of the American flag as it proudly flies on a cloudy day.

Today Sloan and I enjoyed a little artwork done with markers. I have my set and he has his special set.

He worked really hard on his Alien Cat and monster pumpkins.

We also had a lil' black cat come up a few days ago and has made itself a home in the shop near the house. He is as gentle as can be and Sloan insist he is a "Halloween Cat" So I guess we will be calling him Halloween.

Wishing each of you cool Autumn breezes.

Happy Trails....Ginger

~ * ~ A Dream Come True ~ * ~

2011-10-04T19:17:00.005-05:00

I'm still grinning from ear to ear over how pleased I am with the Happy Trails Workshop. Frank Bielec and Pati Jane came early to help set things up and prepare for the 22 ladies that attended the workshop. We had bags of goodies for each participant and door prizes throughout each day.

The first day was spent learning the art of oxford punch and all the ladies caught on very quickly. Frank had brought everything needed to make a flip wallhanging and the ladies had their chose of many patterns. He is always very generous with his wool, yarn, accessories, and patterns.

On the first day we served Fajita taco salads for lunch and for supper my sister~in~laws and MIL served brisket with all the fixins! I'm so blessed to have such a giving family....and the meal was absolutely delicious!

We did have a hiccup on the Day 1 with my air conditioning going out....wouldn't you know it! Not one complaint was made and no one slowed down. These gals were determined!

Day 2 brought much cooler weather and the gals were back at it bright and early. Many gals finished up there first projects and began making more. There were many patterns to choose from. Kati from Tyler, Texas brought patterns and wool for sale and many of the gals enjoyed shopping. Made it feel like a real camp! Thank you Kati! Kala from Louisana also brought some of her handmade items and the ladies also enjoyed purchasing some of her lovely items.

Pati Jane and I served homemade lasagna, chicken spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, and more fixins with pumpkin bars. For supper we grilled out brauts, smoked saugages, and hotdogs with potato salad and my Mom brought over pecan, chocolate, and butterscotch pies.

Day 3 was just as nice with the weather being nice and cool. Ann arrived first each day and fixed the coffee. I'm not a coffee gal and was so glad she did that for me!

It was crunch time for everyone. Time to get everything finished up. My daughter Jenn came over to take a group photo for us and some random shots.

On the 3rd day we served homemade chicken noodle soup and taco soup with biscuits, cornbread and crackers. For dessert we had Texas chocolate sheet cake. It's one of my childhood favorites!

I have to give a big thank you to Frank Bielec for making the trip out here to the farm to teach the very first workshop and helping to make it the success it was. We enjoyed his company more than he will ever know. Danny loved visiting with him in the evenings after work and we laughed so much! Frank also gave away his models in a drawing at the end of camp to 3 lucky gals!

Pati Jane went above and beyond the call of helping...months ago she began working with me on the goodie bags, planning, and then all the baking and dishwashing she did. She is truly a gem and I am very blessed to call her my friend!

Each gal that attended also made this camp the success it was. Everyone pitched in and helped in some way. It was such a pleasure to have them all here for the 3 days.

Months ago Danny and I were setting out on the porch and discussing enclosing the carport....now here it is all finished and my dream of sharing it with family and friends has come true. He worked many days and nights after work building this great room. I don't know that I can ever thank him enough for making my dreams come true but I'm going to try!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Break Dancing!

2011-09-22T23:05:00.003-05:00

Oops.....A lil' boy decided to show his Mom a dance on top of his lego table and took a spill and broke his arm. After a 2nd look at the x-rays looks like a tiny fracture between the elbow and shoulder and he will be wearing a sling for 3 more weeks. Hasn't slowed him down a bit and decided I should give him a ride up on my shoulders.

Danny's Mom watches the great~grandkids often and it really helps when I have to work. I gave her a quilt kit and she had it done in 2 days. It turned out very nice!

I've been putting some finishing details on the workshop we will be having here next and I'll be sure to share lots of photo's of all the fun. Plus I'm hoping to catch up on all my blog reading in the next couple of weeks it's always a pleasure to see what everyone else has been doing!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Oh September Days!

2011-09-14T19:57:00.005-05:00

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year and today Sloan and I went once again back to the OKC zoo. Next year I will have to get a year pass. He loved feeding the birds nectar. He said he would love to work at the zoo and feed all the animals but would not want to stay once it got dark.

It was perfect weather today and we had a wonderful time.

I have slowly been pulling out things to put out in the gathering room. It's nice to have a place to put things out.

I also hung the House Blessings rug that was designed by LJ Fibers.

It's nice to see a setting sun you know another day is just about done. Tomorrow is suppose to bring temps into the 60's and rain. Oh to turn off the AC and enjoy open windows once again.

Pati Jane and I went last weekend to Warsaw, MO to the Truman Lake Rug show and it was spectacular. Patty and the girls from Saltbox Primitive Woolens put on one outstanding show and the vendors were awesome. I know it will be on the list to do again next year!
Here are a few of the rugs that were on display.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Fun In The Sun

2011-09-03T21:50:00.004-05:00

The Loose Caboose Festival was one of the best this year. We were busy almost all day and the crowd was steady all day long.

I think there were around 60 booths with lots of different offerings.

Pati Jane and Sandra having a good time. Pati made some great smelling fall potpourri and it sure brought the customers in to our booth. Sandra is a big help all throughout the day and we are so glad she made the trip!

Danny was set up right beside us and let us set with him in his booth so we could use our whole booth to spread out.

Well this ol' farmgirl is worn out but had a great time. Hope you are enjoying your weekend and finding time to be with friends and family.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Well Worth The Sore Fingers

2011-09-02T22:02:00.006-05:00

Whipping rugs and mats but the pile is dwindling and I'm loving the results. This is one of my favorites and it is designed by Laurie of LJ Fibers. Now to find a place to hang it to enjoy all the beautiful wools that went into this piece.

Next is an oxford punch piece made from #6 wool strips...just a bit hickety ~ pickety but much to my liking.

Found this lil' tree buried in a pile from long ago but it's finished and ready to enjoy.

This lil' snowguy is also oxford punched with wool strips and it is about coaster size.

Well I'm packed up and ready to go enjoy Saturday with Pati Jane and Sandra at the Loose Caboose Festival tomorrow. It's going to be another hot day but hopefully we have picked a spot that will be in the shade a good part of the day!

Wishing each of you a safe and happy Labor Day weekend.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Getting Ready For The Loose Caboose

2011-08-30T00:25:00.004-05:00

Busy week ahead gathering up all the lil' things I have been painting, stitching, and hooking. Sad to say but Oklahoma doesn't have a lot of handmade craft fairs anymore. I have always enjoyed going to the Loose Caboose Festival in downtown Purcell, Oklahoma. There is a lot of history just on Main Street. There are several antique shops that once were used as a hotel, theatre, and department stores.
Purcell was founded as a railroad town in 1887. Part of Main street still has the original brick roads.

This coming Saturday, September 3rd....Main Street will be transformed into a place with live music, food, and handmade crafts. So if your in the area we would love for you to stop by!

The weathermen are forecasting a COLD front coming this way....we may just drop down into the 80's sometime next week. I sure hope so we are ready for some cooler days.

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Place To Create And We Are Expecting!

2011-08-28T21:14:00.009-05:00

Danny recently built me this wonderful cupboard for our anniversary. It's huge and I put it out in our big room. We have slowly been moving a few things out there. I want it nice and comfortable a place you want to sit down and visit. A cozy place to look through books work on projects or just gaze out the windows at the wildlife or cows. I'm looking forward to a nice fire in a fireplace this winter....doesn't seem right thinking of fires when we are still dealing with this long unusually hot summer.

I'm not very good at putting things together and admire all of you who have that knack. I did hang a rug up by the table along with displaying some of the beautiful punch needle mats and pillows, cross~stitched and embroidered pieces that several online friends have so thoughtfully sent me. I love looking at them each day and it just reminds me how blessed I am to have such dear friends although I have not met most of them in person yet I hold them as treasured friends in my heart.

Do you see the lil' blocks on top? It says By The Light Of The Moon. A certain lil' boy wants them but his Momo plans on keeping those :) Then right beside it a favorite photo of my two kiddos when they were oh so little.

Back to moving again....I moved the dough box out to the "hooking/gathering" room. Inside the box is linen and monks cloth with patterns ready to be hooked. The rug on top was designed by Stonehill Rug Hooking in Fredericksburg. It was a fun one to do. I like to leave it out all year.

I've been moving lots of my things from my craft room out to this room. I have lots of books for inspiration. I have a round table that is on the list next to redo so we can sit it nearby and play checkers or cards, make playdough critters or enjoy those books with a nice glass of tea.

Now for exciting news. We are expecting a new lil' grandbaby by next May. Our daughter and son~in~law are expecting their first little one. A new addition will be so sweet. I already have this new one in my prayers long before he or she will be here. Praying all goes well with this pregnancy and that this little one grows strong and healthy. Praying that Mom and Dad enjoy this time and enjoy the days, weeks, and months ahead. Praying that we will all be a good influence in this child's life.

I did draw up a few more doodles again they are for you to use however you choose.

My sister~in~laws are starting a new adventure and in the weeks to come I will share that with you. They are more like sisters than in~laws and I know I am very blessed to have them in my life. Wishing each of you a blessed week with lots of smiles.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Making Pins and Finishing Rugs

2011-08-24T23:26:00.006-05:00

It's just been too HOT outside to do much of anything. Sloan and I walked through the garden this evening and a few pumpkins and gourds have survived the terrible heat. He took a few home this evening for his Momma. Today while he took a good nap I made up a batch of pretty pins. They will go in some pinkeeps I hope to make.

My fingers have been working overtime on binding lots of hooked mats and rugs. I had created quite a pile and yes there are still some more to go. You would think I would learn not to let them pile up so high.

Some will be sold and some will go here and there in the house.

The antique looking Santa and Reindeer designed by Star Rug Company is one of my favorites it will be staying :)

The Loose Caboose Festival will be September 3rd in Purcell and some of the rugs and mats will be in our little booth. We will be setting up on Main Street...I sure hope the temperatures cool down a bit.

My Mom has been raising some baby chicks and she plans to give Sloan a few. Sure hope the racoons don't get them. We have one brave racoon that comes to visit every evening and is not scared of us at all.

With record setting triple digits I'm really longing for a crisp fall day!

We have been busy completing a few needed chores around the house guess there will always be something to work on.

Well that's what I completed on the pile of UFO rugs and mats. I'm really getting the hang of this binding stuff although I still have several to go with some really large ones. I'm trying my best not to hook anymore until I catch up...well see if I can keep the yarn and needle busy :)
Enjoy the rest of your week!!!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Free Doodle Just For You

2011-08-23T23:06:00.005-05:00

Well another day is just about complete. It's been a busy one as usual with the daily chores of life but this evening I took a few hours and made a few more fabric covered composition notebooks. I have tubs of fabric so the possiblilites are endless.

I drew up several doodles this evening and thought I would share a couple with you. I'll post a few more in the next few days. Feel free to use them to your liking but please give credit to the designer.

These lil' guys sure look onery don't they???

Happy Trails....Ginger

Here's Your Sign

2011-08-20T23:20:00.002-05:00

What a fun day. My friend Pati Jane came out for a day of crafting. We made painted signs and fabric notebooks. We finished quite a few projects. Here are the signs and a few other things I finished painting.

I've also been busy binding rugs and mats. It is good to have the pile dwindling once again.

The heatwave has continued on....I think we may have tied the record of 50 days of triple digits. I'll be glad when we beat it and then maybe we can call it good and drop back into the 90's. Fall days just won't arrive quick enough this year.

Well back to binding....wishing each of you a wonderful weekend :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

~True Love Never Ends~

2011-08-14T23:12:00.003-05:00

Time is slipping by. Wrinkled faces, streaks of grey hair, a few more aches and pains but it comes to us all doesn't it! It's hard to believe 30 years ago we gathered with our families in a small church and told each other we would cherish one another until death do us part. Dad walked with me down the aisle to give me away....he got lots of practice in after that having 3 more girls he would give away. Grandparents and aunts and uncles were there and now many of them are but a memory. I think of the ones that were so young and now many of them are married and have children of their own.

We are all so blessed to have memories. It's good to reflect on times past both good and bad and see what we have learned from it. Life is fragile use it the best you can and when you make mistakes quickly ask for forgiveness....letting things pile up just doesn't make things better.

We not only became as one but so did our familes. We have shared many gatherings as one big family. We are very blessed that everyone gets along. We all have our ups and downs but we all care about each other and our extended families. Little did I know as a young bride that I was gaining far more than just a wonderful husband.

Now on a bit of a sad note seems like our exciting news got a bit turned upside down. There is a reason for all things and we just turn it all over to our Lord. Sometimes things happen for a reason that we just can't understand.

Wishing each of you a week filled with much joy and a giving heart!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Time to Put the Hook Aside

2011-08-09T22:50:00.002-05:00

I really have to stop and get busy with pulling the needle and yarn through a bunch of finishes. "Harvest House" is a pattern by Chestnut Junction and she is having a sale so I purchased several patterns.

A simple lil' hooked mat...using up some woolie worms from the scrap basket.

Just a happy lil' JOL also from the scrap basket.

It's been a really different week. My sweet lil' guy has left with his Dad and Mom to go to Sea World in San Antonio. He was suppose to go last year but had a bad infection in his eye and was put in the hospital. So here it is a year later and he is on his way. He promised to take pictures with his dad's phone and send me some...yes the lil' toot knows how to operate the phone.

We received some unexpected but exciting news today and I'm on pins and needles! I'm waiting for it all to come together before I spill the beans...

Happy Trails....Ginger

Loop by Loop and Unending Questions

2011-08-05T21:30:00.004-05:00

Pulling loops and loops of wool and it's so relaxing even if it is sweltering outside. Colors that remind me of Autumn.

Started another rug and still need to thread a needle and bind a few others oh well!

Have you ever really stopped and listened to a little kid. It's amazing how fast they learn and the questions they come up with. Today's question was "Are centipede's helpful or harmful to the earth" the answer...Yes they are helpful! Goodness I'm going to have to brush up on my science:)

Happy Trails....Ginger

Another Use for Wool

2011-08-04T16:24:00.003-05:00

Finished up hooking this happy guy...Just got to steam and bind it. It's the first time I ever used purple as a background. It sure is different and boy is it bright!

Did you know that you can use wool to make a trap? Someone snatched a bunch of my wool strips to lay a trap.

Happy Trails....Ginger

One Good Thing!

2011-08-03T22:22:00.002-05:00

Well if you have to find something good about the triple digits....the laundry is dry in just a few minutes. They have said on the news that Oklahoma has had 41 days of 100 degrees or more and the record is 50. I'm afraid we may set a new record. I really shouldn't complain when there are so many in this world with so much less.

I pulled some wool and drew up a pattern and I've really used some bright colors something quite different for me. Well guess I'll pull a few more loops and finish this rug up so I can get started on another one I'm itchin' to do!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Homemade Gifts Make Us Smile!

2011-08-02T14:31:00.006-05:00

Sloan loves handmade items....I have been very blessed over the years to receive handmade items from fellow bloggers and eBay group friends. My dear friend Doris sent Sloan and I the most wonderful goodie box. We are having our 3rd Anniversary on the AAPG group on eBay and Doris gifted us with all these delightful fall items.

She made Sloan a pumpkin and a crow. He swiped the lil' wrist pinkeep and has been wearing it on his arm and his ankle. For now we won't put any pins in it! He loves the crow and pumpkin and said he plans to use them in his traps. The lil' toot loves to make snares and traps around the house and loves to put "clues" leading up to them. Doris I just want you to know Sloan loves the goodies you sent....thanks so much.

Now just look at the bounty of goodies that I was gifted. Handmade pumpkins, needle punched scarecrow, beautiful needle punched sunflower tuck pillow, a needle punch cat standing on a pumpkin, vintage package of needles, handmade card, gift tags, a purse calendar for next year (love the Rooster) lovely wool, and notecards. Wow am I ever blessed!

Thought you might want to see some close~ups of Doris' beautiful work!

I'm going to leave it all out....I know we are still having triple digits and summer is by far not over. But these fall handmades will bring a smile each time I look at them. I will think of my dear friend Doris and also remember that fall days will be here again.....Thank you so VERY MUCH Doris for every lil' stitch you put into each of these gifts!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Seventy Years....

2011-07-31T23:07:00.006-05:00

My Dad turned 70 on July 30th. Sure doesn't seem like he should be that old. We are very blessed to have him in our lives. He still does a lot of farming and tending to cattle. Him and my mom have put in a large garden that they share with family and friends in our community.
In his 70 years he has seen so many changes. I have had the opportunity in the past to go back to Texas to where he was raised and go back in time with him to the days of his childhood through his memories. There were lots of hard times but lots of laughs, too.
We are a very close~knit family and for that I am so VERY Thankful....I'm glad Danny and I both live near our parents.

Well the temperatures have remained in the triple digits with no end in sight! So our niece Melanie decided to jump in!

Sloan is a lil' fish...he loves going under!

He jumps in over and over and dog paddles back.

Catching a ride with cousin Mel.

Megan and Maggie.

Mandy Jo

Jaxson our great~nephew....Sloan calls him his lil' buddy!

Two lil' buddies enjoying watermelon from PaPa Bob and Grandma Sue's garden!

I sure hope each and everyone of you enjoyed your weekend.....be sure to tell those in your life that you love them!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Nearing the Finish Line!

2011-07-27T00:43:00.004-05:00

After several late nights and lots of work we are getting closer to having one big project done. We have decided we are VERY GOOD at starting projects and terrible at finishing....so we are working on finishing projects!

So I ran the saw and yes it was off in this photo. I took wood shop in High School for 4 years and was even the teacher's aid the last year. I have also helped my dad over the years with working with wood and actually I do enjoy it!

I got the thumbs up from Danny as the boards all came together for the framework. We are enclosing a small room to put our washer and dryer in and part of it will be used to store the tables and chairs we have for our family functions. With the really high ceilings I should even have storage for the Christmas decorations.

We trimmed out all the doors and windows. Still need to paint the doors.

The outside of the small room is almost complete on the outside wall. We still need to add the wood above the door and do the trim work. We are going to add insulation in the walls to help sound proof it....maybe the overalls won't bang so loud!

We still have lots of hummers and they do enjoy the cool, sweet drinks from the feeders.

The spaces for Frank Bielec's class here the last of September are starting to fill up. If your interested in attending please email me and I will send you all the information.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Coming Soon....Happy Trails Oxford Punch Rug Camp

2011-07-19T00:07:00.008-05:00

We are so happy to be able to announce that Frank Bielec (Mosey n' Me) that loveable and talented guy that once was on Trading Spaces will be teaching a class right here on the farm September 29th, 30th, and October 1st, 2011.

He has a heart of gold that shines through in all he does. Besides being an extremely talented artist he has a sense of humor that will keep you smiling long after you have gone home.

It's one class that you can take and you will go home with finished projects ready to enjoy! There will be a limited number of students so if you are interested please contact me through email located on the right hand side of this blog....just look for the cows!

Oxford Punch looks very much like a hooked rug but is very fast. It can be done with yarn and wool strips.

These are just a couple of projects I have made in the past. You can make small items all the way up to large rugs with this technique.

I'm so excited for fall to come....I counting down the weeks!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

The Winner is...

2011-07-18T19:13:00.005-05:00

Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway of the little fall Jack hooked mat. The winner is Doris. She doesn't have a blog but she does some amazing needle punched pieces you can find her on ebay here
Congratulations Doris!!!!

Well we had another busy weekend with too much excitement. Danny was cutting a hay field for a neighbor when his cutter set the dry field on fire....needless to say it was quite a ordeal. Four fire departments and 7 hours later it was safe to call it out. No homes or buildings were destroyed and the neighbor was actually glad to have a lot of brush gone. It's been so dry in Oklahoma we are in desperate need of rain. The hay cutting is finished for the year although another neighbor had asked to have part of their field cut it's just too risky!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Goofy Cake Recipe

2011-07-14T23:01:00.003-05:00

Goofy Cake
1/2 c. margarine, melted
1 lb. powdered sugar
1/2 c. flaked coconut
1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese, softened
1 box yellow cake mix (not the kind with pudding added)
3 eggs
1/2 c. chopped pecans

Combine margarine, cake mix and 1 egg. Stir together until dry ingredients are moist.

Pat mixture into bottom of a well greased 15x10 jellyroll pan.

Beat remaining 2 eggs lightly, then beat in cream cheese and powdered sugar. Stir in coconut and nuts. Pour this mixture in the pan over the crust, spreading evenly. Bake at 325 degrees for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. Cut into bars.

I sent most of them to work but did refrigerate a few. Sloan even liked them and they were even better cold! I also saw a recipe for chocolate ones may have to try that next! Be sure and have someone to share them with they are pretty rich and it makes a lot!!!!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Baking, Playing, and Hooking

2011-07-13T22:44:00.005-05:00

I've been planning for Frank Bielec to come here in September to teach a oxford punch class and so I've been working on making a list of lunches and snacks to serve. So thought we better try a sample or two. This one is called Goofy Cake and it turned out really good just a lil' on the rich side!

Danny and I sampled a piece but the rest will make it's way to work tomorrow to share with the guys.

I'm going to have to get me a bean bag if this playing on the floor keeps up! Ferdinand the Bull is just about to be up to some mischief...for some reason that onery ol' bull likes to tear up the barns.

Another small mat finished hooking just needs steamed and bound. It was another busy day filled to the brim with a lil' of this and that! Hope your enjoying your week. If you want to sign up for the giveaway see the previous post or click on the pic at the right hand top of this blog.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

A Simple Giveaway To Say Thank You!

2011-07-13T00:23:00.003-05:00

It's been quite a long time since I had a giveaway. So many of you stop by to just say hello, leave a kind word, and take a peek into our life here on our little farm.

So if you would like to have a chance at this little hooked mat of Jack admiring the Autumn moon plus a few more little goodies just leave a note on this post and I'll get you entered. If you don't have a blog just leave an address so if your a winner I can let you know.

I'll pick a winner on Monday July 18th.

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Very Serious Question

2011-07-11T21:37:00.005-05:00

Started a new little project...and it's just about done!

So a certain lil' boy is very curious about the calves getting a drink. He wants to know if he can get a bucket and try milking one....I think not these aren't dairy cows but try explaining that to a 3 year old! He has lots of questions about how to go about doing this.

I don't think this Momma is all too keen on him trying either! The explanation is just not good enough for him. Have you ever milked a cow....yes I've tried it and it's not as easy as it looks. Really ~~~ I would just as soon buy my milk already in the carton!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Santa Claus and A Mudslide

2011-07-10T23:09:00.005-05:00

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas and hooking on Santa and his reindeer. Everything around here is beginning to look like toast...burnt, crunchy toast. I've gave up on the flowers and just hoping to keep the trees alive.

Mud would be a welcome sight....so what do you do? Well went to Lowe's and bought some floor paint. Looks like Hershey's syrup but it's called Mudslide.

I actually did finish up painting the room and it looks so much more cozy with a dark floor. Next we will be adding a little room in one corner to move the washer and dryer into and a place to store all the chairs and tables for our gatherings.

Then we need to add the trim and do some insulating in the attic portion. After that we will add in a fireplace area. A little at a time but it's getting there!

With the extreme heat the grasshoppers have invaded. I've just about gave up on the garden.

Well would you look one of the mini pumpkins did make it! Is it too early to start thinking of fall and cool, crisp evenings? It's my absolute favorite time of year.

Big cantelopes are still hanging on.

The sunflowers are thriving in this heat. I do enjoy their beautiful blooms.

The crape myrtles are showing their blooms as well....so see there is beauty bursting through despite this drought.

So look for the small blessings and enjoy what is before you. The simple things in life add up in life and it will rain again once more here on the Oklahoma prairie and when it does I will savor that old familiar smell.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Keeping Busy and Beating This Heat!

2011-07-07T22:40:00.007-05:00

It's been scorching hot and that is no lie. We are in an extreme heat wave. It's just miserable. I did mow the yard last night just to straighten things up a bit and it looked like a big dirt cloud following me.

So what to do with time spent indoors....Sloan is content with playing, watching movies, and having a book read to him. In between and late into the evenings I've been working on oxford punching, rug hooking, embroidery, applique, and painting.

I drew up the chick setting on her nest this afternoon and with my trusty oxford punch she was done in just a couple of hours.

This rug was peeking out from my UFO stack calling to me. It's a pattern by Star Rug Company and it's back on the frame and I'm wanting to finish it up to enjoy this winter....ahh for a winter's day!

I did finish up another hooked rug just need to get it bound. I'm still working on having a giveaway....just need to finish up a thing or two.

Time to head back to the frame and pull a few loops.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Summer Day On The Farm

2011-07-05T01:09:00.004-05:00

Finished pulling the last loop on this rug...yes it's after 1:00 am. My eyes are tired and it's about time to go find a soft pillow. I looked up and the last green loop of grass was pulled just wish I could say that for all the weeds that have sprouted up in the flowerbeds!

Oh and I couldn't have got it done without the good ole' specs. They are the weakest ones you can get but they sure do take the strain off the eyes.

I want to make sure and give Frank Bielec (yes he is the guy from Trading Spaces) credit for drawing this one of a kind rug just for me!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Freedom is Never Free

2011-07-02T23:13:00.003-05:00

You're a grand old flag,
You're a high flying flag
And forever in peace may you wave.
You're the emblem of
The land I love.
The home of the free and the brave.

Ev'ry heart beats true
For the Red, White and Blue,
Where there's never a boast or brag.
But should auld acquaintance be forgot,
Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

Hope each and everyone of you are having a safe and happy 4th of July weekend! Remembering all those who have served and are serving today to keep this great country what it is today!

~ GOD BLESS AMERICA ~

Happy Trails.....Ginger

~ Are You A Daydreamer~

2011-07-01T23:09:00.005-05:00

Did you have a busy week....I did. I fill my days up no matter what even if it's playing with a needle and thread. Some days I fill it with the usual household chores.

Friday afternoon I spent a few hours with my good friend Pati rearranging our booth and adding a few more goodies.

It's been too hot to spend very much time outdoors...so most folks are spending their time inside finding ways to stay busy. The folks working out in this heat are sure having to keep hydrated it's been so miserable.

Well you might be wondering about the title to my post....
I've always been a daydreamer sometimes it would even get me into trouble at school. Still at work Danny or even Dan our son will catch me in deep thought when they are trying to get me to do something for them.

This little one is a daydreamer....throughout the day we have our own imaginary world we escape into. Some days we are pirates sailing across the seven seas, we may be crocodile hunters, we have been known to rescue some poor maiden along the way. Look out there could be the sighting of bigfoot along the way. We have traveled around the world to places that most have never seen....we have seen cowboys and indians along the trails. We have walked a thousand miles through our fairy tales. We have survived the coldest of winters and the unbearable heat of summer days searching high and low for a small trickle of water. We take our trusty hatchet and knife along for the adventure....perhaps a piece of string and a hook to catch a fish. We have the grandest of times because we both are daydreamers! I hope you take time to be a daydreamer no matter how young or old you may be :)

Happy Trails....Ginger

Many uses of Crushed Walnut Shells

2011-06-30T09:32:00.002-05:00

Bet you didn't know that crushed walnut shells can quickly turn into quicksand in the mind of a 3 year old boy. Well it's keeping him busy as I TRY and clean up some of my messy crafting room. I believe I can mess up a room faster than anyone.

Wonder how many superhero's are seeing doom as they are being buried? Wonder if one will see it's way into a pinkeep? Well back to the mess...hope you are having a productive day!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Quick Project

2011-06-29T00:09:00.002-05:00

Here is a quick little project I made and it will help to fill in a few spaces in our booth.

An inkpad...this is the one I used. It works great and I love the color.

I had some linen that I had dyed in rit tan dye....gathered up some stamps I had on hand. Stamped the linen with the various designs. Found some scrap material for backing and then sewed around each one to make into a little pillow. I filled them with some some good smelling spices and a little filler.

Sewed up the little opening and it's all done. Simple and best of all quick.

Happy Trails....Ginger

~ Just a little stitching ~

2011-06-28T10:44:00.003-05:00

Wanted: a needle swift enough to sew this poem into a blanket. ~Charles Simic

Another hot day and trying to finish up another one of my MANY UFO'S. The poor tomato plants are being devoured by those nasty horn worms. We search for them and then squish them I know YUCK. Not sure if we will have any to pick this year :(

Well back to stitching...hope your enjoying your day!

Happy Trails....Ginger

When Mom Gives You Zucchini.....

2011-06-26T21:42:00.016-05:00

Well get busy and make some zucchini bread. Here is the recipe I used and it turned out excellent....I will be making more. Even going to try some with splenda for the diabetics in the family!

Saturday morning Sandra and Pati came for the day to do some crafting, eating and visiting. We got out the hula hoops and did a little excercise.

Sandra brought a rug to work on.

Pati worked on some garden art.

Later on in the day I took some old cookie sheets that I found at the thrift store and gave them a prep of primer.

Got all of those finished last night and a few other projects.

This evening I've been pulling a few loops on the farm rug. Looking forward to having this one done and ready to start a few halloween rugs. I'm so ready for fall temperatures but no relief in sight. I'm sure water rationing is right around the corner as the water pressure is so low. We are definetely praying for rain.

I need to have a giveaway soon.....It's been way too long! Maybe I'll come up with something by next week.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Making Hay While the Sun Shines

2011-06-24T16:13:00.007-05:00

Seems like everytime we need to do a little farming we have a problem....so Dad was good to come over with his equipment and start cutting the hay for us. Hay is going to be scarce this year in our area as we haven't seen enough rain and with the temps staying so high the fields are beginning to burn up.

Sloan and his great~grandpa looking over the large garden. My mom and dad have a huge garden that has a variety of veggies.

This is where we try to stay most of the time is in the shade it's just too hot out in the sunshine.

He tells me often he wants to stay little because it's so much fun. Ahhhh to be carefree again :)

An empty nest we found.

Gathering up feathers.

Time to get the feet wet!

Keeping the feeders full is becoming a daily task. We have about 15 hummers that have come for a stay.

Silly kids and worms!

The 3 M's....Maggie, Megan, and Mandy....enjoying a swim!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Summer Days..... Pass Me a Glass of Iced Tea!

2011-06-20T21:33:00.005-05:00

Staying busy pulling weeds and watering everything as the rains are so scarce. So dry and parched here in central Oklahoma. It's been miserably hot and about the only thing you want to do is find a cool place to stay and sip on a glass of iced tea.
It's been so hot I really haven't played with much wool and so I pulled out the paints and got busy painting. It's something Sloan and I can do together.

This rooster seems to be saying "Rise and Shine"....

Found a few softballs and baseballs at a thrift store so gave them a coat of paint, too!

We had a few storm clouds come up tonight but not one lil' drop of rain. We sure could use a good steady rain.

Happy Trails.....Ginger

With Two Different Hooks

2011-06-14T01:08:00.004-05:00

I've been keeping busy with 2 different hooks. Been working on a farm scene it's going to be a pretty good size rug. Here is what I've done so far.

While at work in between answering phone calls and this and that I've been keeping the crochet hook busy making little face cloths or they could be used for dishcloths.

Well it's late here so off to bed and you might give this some thought....If you think that something small cannot make a difference, try going to sleep with a mosquito in the room! Those pesky lil' things are out in force around here.

Happy Trails....Ginger

The Kind~Hearted Woman

2011-06-10T01:06:00.002-05:00

My Great~Grandma was a "kind~hearted" woman. Mom remembers fondly of the days when hobo's would come knocking at my grandma's back door. She would make them something to eat and give them a glass of tea. Mom was just a little girl at the time but she remembers watching from inside the house. Grandma would not let her come outside while they were there. She said Grandma would talk with them while they ate then they would hand back the dishes and they would be on there way.

My great~grandpa worked for the railroad and they lived near the tracks. There home still stands today in Purcell, Oklahoma though the barn is gone. Mom along with her brothers and cousins would play along the clear running creek that ran through the property. There was lots of woods behind the house.

Did you know that hobo's had signs that they would place in various areas to tell about the type of person that lived in the house or nearby area. If a woman in the are was known to serve you something to eat they would leave a sign on a tree or hidden area with a cat it stood for a kindhearted woman lives here and you can get something to eat. I'm almost certain there must have been a sign nearby that indicated that my great~grandma was one of the kind~hearted women. She was always known by her family to be in the kitchen cooking up something homemade. Her cobblers made from scratch were mouth~watering good.

Today there are still a lot of kind~hearted women who take the time to offer a simple gesture of kindness. I want to give credit to Frank Bielec for drawing this pattern for me. I have an idea or two sparked from this fun little rug.

Maybe you know someone that may have been a kind~hearted woman!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Oh What Could It Be?

2011-06-07T21:45:00.004-05:00

Started a new rug this evening....Bet your wondering what it is! There is a story behind it and it relates to my Great~Grandma. I'll share the story in a few days.

I sat out on the porch late this evening and enjoyed the hummers! They have such personality. Sometimes they get a bit hyper if I put too much sugar in the feeders.

I got this feeder in Texas over the weekend. It is handpainted and the proceeds went to help the homeless. I bought two of them they were so unique.

Mr. Cardinal would really like it if I would go on in he would like a evening snack before going back to his nest for the night.

I see the moon and the moon sees me, God Bless the Moon, God Bless Me! Got a good shot of the moon this evening.

I made pico again this evening to go with a sandwich. I LOVE pico and it's healthy for you so here is the recipe!

Diced roma tomato's
Diced onion
Diced jalepeno pepper (remove the seeds if you don't want it too hot)
Diced cilantro leaves and stems
Stir it all up
Add the juice from a fresh lime or two

Enjoy!

Well Sloan and I played in the pool twice today. He is getting quite brave with trying to swim although I have a life vest swimsuit on him. He has always loved the water so I'm double locking doors to be on the safe side. Never can be too cautious with curious kids! Hope your staying cool and hey get out there and have some fun!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Staying In the Shade

2011-06-06T17:30:00.001-05:00

We are having hot temps already....Summertime heat is not for me. The cows and calves look for shade in between grazing and stopping to cool off with a drink from the ponds. This has been a very unusual year of weather.
During the day the garden needs weeding, flowers need a big gulp of water and the hummingbirds are busily darting to the various feeders.

Late in the evenings after working outside I have been enjoying the feel of my hook pulling wool as I work on a few more projects. This is a chairpad designed by Mad Hen.

Over the weekend Danny and I took a trip overnight and on the way home stopped by Turner Falls near Davis, Oklahoma. I use to swim in the falls as a kid...sure miss those days!

Here is a lil' dog I oxford punched for Sloan. The design is by Frank Bielec and yes he was on Trading Spaces. Such a fun guy to be around and he is so talented.
Sloan loved his treasure box!

Snips and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails....that is what Sloan is made of!

Our mimosa tree is blooming....It's my favorite tree of all. Loved climbing up them as a kid.

Two lil' birds have been pushed out of the nest and have been making a home on our porch. The mom flies in to feed them and hopefully they will take flight before a varmit finds them.

I found this whimsical guy while we were on our trip and he looks perfect overseeing the new flowerbed! He has a lot of attitude.

Sure hope all of you are staying cool and enjoying the early summer days....well I'm off to fire up the grill and water the tomatoes and the rest of the garden!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Turtles, Bugs, and Rugs!

2011-06-01T22:40:00.007-05:00

We have been busy every evening trying to finish up many of the projects we have started around the farm. I don't think we will ever truly been done. We did get the flag pole up and it looks great with the flags flying high!

This morning Sloan and I saw this fella coming at a fast pace and made his way right up onto the porch. Guess he was coming to see what was happening up at the house. We sent him on his way back to the pond. We sure don't need a snapping turtle to play with :) and he sure was a friendly sort of guy he came right up to Sloan and wanted to check the lil' fella out!

We did have a great afternoon....we went into town to the kiddie pool that has been around since I was a kid and I took Sloan for a swim. We had a great time cooling off. We came home and decided we needed to go on a bug hunt. We found several bugs to put in his bug house.

Here is a few more rugs from the rug camp in Tyler, Texas. I just brought my little camera so the pics aren't the best.

Hope you enjoyed seeing some of the great rugs that were there. Well it's suppose to be hot and humid the rest of the week and I'm sure we will find a few ways to cool off. Hope all of you are staying cool in this heat and staying safe with all the storms that continue to make their way across the states.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Rug Hooking and Oxford Punch

2011-05-29T23:17:00.005-05:00

It's been an amazing week. First I would like to thank all of those concerned about the tornado's here in Oklahoma. One of the local towns suffered quite a bit of damage and many lost there homes. As the surrounding communities pull together to help one another somehow life goes on for those affected. The worst part is not the material things but the loss of life. I am especially saddened by the heartache of the families that lost children. Just makes my heart ache for all the family and friends that knew these little ones. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those with this tremendous loss.

Our ebay group leader Kelley thought we all needed a bit of sunshine and came up with the idea for a challenge to make a sunflower. This is the one I came up with!

I attended the Star of Texas Rug Hooking Camp in Tyler, Texas last week and really enjoyed the time I spent visiting with some of the gals I met last year. Of course there was lots of inspiration to see with all the wonderful rugs that were presented at the rug show. Hope you enjoy looking at a few of them.

I took an oxford punch class with Frank Bielec. He is such a wonderful teacher. Not only do you learn all kinds of new things you hear such funny stories that always keeps you smiling. There was a total of 9 of us in the class. This is part of the group. We all were there right up until the end.

These four gals were also from Oklahoma and were such fun. They all came from the Broken Bow area and this was the first time they had ever worked with wool to make a rug and they made some outstanding projects! I think they are hooked :)

Frank treated each of us to our own special rug. Just name anything and he would draw you a pattern.

For my rug I chose a farm scene with chickens, cows, a house, flowers and a flag. I was simply amazed at how fast he can draw.....

Well I hope to show you more rugs and some of the projects I made in the upcoming days. I've got a bit of catching up to do around the old farm place first. The laundry basket is spilling over and the tomato and pepper plants are hiding in the weeds :(

Have a safe and Happy Memorial Day and remember to say a prayer of thanks for all of those who have served and are serving today for our country. We wouldn't have the comfort of FREEDOM if it were not for the sacrifices that have been made!

Happy Trails.....Ginger

Painted Bunting and Hummers

2011-05-18T21:33:00.001-05:00

The hummingbirds have came back again this year. They dart and play going from one feeder to another. At times there are 5 or 6 racing one another across the yard dive bombing into feeders.

Sometimes they are caught sharing and other times they attack each other fighting for rights.

A cardinal and a painted bunting sharing at the feeder. This is the first time to see a painted bunting here. Hope he stays around for awhile.

This is a very interesting plant....it's called a shrimp plant. I don't have a green thumb so hopefully it's hardy and will do well.

I've been doing a little planting in the flowerbeds. I'm trying to plant perrenials that attract birds and butterflies....we will see if it does the trick!

Once again the winds have kicked up and have sent the cottonwood trees into sending down lots of fluff....sure makes for alot of itchy watery eyes and sneezing. They are forecasting more rain. I like a good rain it just seems to wash away some of the dust and it makes the trees and plants do so much better.

The garden is taking it's sweet time in growing this year. With the temps going up and down guess it doesn't know what to do. Sloan keeps going out and checking the watermelon vines for signs of a watermelon. It's way too early for one but I may just buy a small one and put it out there for him to find :)

Well I've been cutting basketfuls of wool into a #6 cut. I'm packing up a suitcase with wool and yarn and setting out on an adventure in a few days. Got my oxford punch needle, backing, and a sharp pair of scissors ready to go. Star of Texas Camp in Tyler Texas begins Sunday evening and I can hardly wait. I'll be taking Frank Bielec's class once again. I had a grand time last year and learned so much plus if you have ever had the opportunity to meet Frank you'll find yourself grinning from ear to ear. He has so much information to offer and he keeps you in stitches with all of his stories. Just can't say enough about how FUN his class is!!!

Check in next week and I'll try to share some of the fun happenings going on.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Wool Journal Covers and A Lil' Graduate!

2011-05-13T22:16:00.004-05:00

My dear friend "Betty" gifted me a wonderful wool appliqued journal cover back in February. It is truly a keepsake. So I found that I had some little booklets tucked away in a cabinet and thought why not make some little covers for them. It was really quick since I used very simple little designs. Look what appeared out of the scrap basket.

I plan on putting some in our lil' booth and think they would make great gifts for someone special and are just the right size to tuck in your purse.

I also made some larger ones for two very special gals. Sloan has been going twice a week for 2 1/2 hours to a preschool. He has loved every minute of it. Miss Carolyn has been helping with preschool and kindergarten since my children were in grade school. You can really tell she enjoys the children.

Miss Teresa is a retired school teacher and loves to sing. The children run to her each morning they arrive and love to get a hug. She taught them so many songs. For the end of the year program they sang many of the songs that they had learned. It was so darling to watch those lil' ones.

They each received a certificate and cd of photos. I know he is going to miss going during the summer months but I'm sure we will fill those days with going to the park and swimming.

Today was a nice crisp, cool day that felt just like fall. Love those cool days and I know before long the dog days of summer will be here until then I'm just going to enjoy every minute of those cool breezes!

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Visit to San Antonio, Texas

2011-05-10T23:57:00.005-05:00

Mom and I had planned a trip to San Antonio a few months ago and the day finally arrived last week. We packed up a couple of bags and left Thursday afternoon and drove down to Temple, Texas and stopped for the night. We enjoyed a wonderful steak dinner and then went back to the hotel to get some rest. Early Friday morning we continued on our trip to San Antonio....we were off to see a cousin that we both adore!

Sharron Ann here in the center and her hubby Rene' were perfect host and showed us around San Antonio. We went to the famous riverwalk and went on the boat ride. We were treated to Mexican food (our favorite) and Rene' also grilled out and Sharron made some awesome Pico and coleslaw.

Sharron and Mom share a passion when it comes to cooking so they enjoyed talking about recipes. Sharron is in the process of making a cookbook that really applies to diabetics as diabetes has a tendency to run in our family.

Sharron and Rene' preparing a wonderful meal for us.

I just love pico and this was fantastic! I admit I had more than one helping.

Before you know it the weekend had come to an end and it was time for Mom and I to pack up and head back to Oklahoma. Sharron and Rene' showed us a wonderful time and we look forward to having them come up next month for the family reunion.

While on the trip home we took Hwy 281 instead of I-35 and we found lots of wonderful places along the way to stop. Queen B is run by 2 women both principals of schools in Hamiliton, Texas. Oh if only I had a trailer with me what treasures I would have brought home!

We also found a lot of Mom and Pop plant nurseries along the way and stopped at a few.

Looks like we both will be busy planting for the next few days. Well I had a most wonderful Mother's day with my Mom. We made lots of new memories. Danny had a few surprises for me when I returned home and so did my kiddo's. Loved each and every one of them....I am truly blessed.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Opening Up a Treasure Chest and More

2011-05-04T16:10:00.003-05:00

Treasures of life come in all forms....simple little things like a call from a friend, a hug from your Mom or Dad, the conversation with a 3 year old. I have so many simple little treasures in my life.....treasures that are such wonderful blessings.

My dear friend Betty put together this wonderful treasure chest of goodies. Her handmades are just beautiful. She puts her heart into everything she makes. I'm very honored to to have several items Miss Betty has made. Thank you Betty for the wonderful treasures!

Another treasure also came in today's mail....a sweet card from an AAPG friend "Mimi" with the sweetest wool strawberry and adorable birdhouse. They will certainly bring some sunshine to our home. Thank you so much Miss Mimi!

Well treasures of life are not hard to find....Just look around and you'll surely see beautiful flowers blooming, birds chirping love notes to each other, laughter of children, sunsets and oh so much more. I hope you'll take time to look around at the simple treasures that you have in your life.

Happy Trails....Ginger

Army Blanket Stitching

2011-05-04T00:37:00.002-05:00

I've had an old army blanket for quite awhile and I've used it in several projects. I found a scrap piece in the basket and came up with some small projects. A needle case ready to hold some pins and needles. I enjoy just taking scraps and a pair of scissors with no pattern and just playing.

The inside of the needle case.

A small little sampler with a very wonky edge...

A little flower pocket.

I would like to thank all of you for the gracious comments on our home. We are very blessed to live in our barnhouse. It's actually a metal building that was built similar to a barn and we added brick halfway up. It's still a work in progress but we do enjoy sharing lots of gatherings with family and friends here. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the kind words and in answer to the cowboy room...yes the Cowboy does clean his own bathroom and occasionally you find him even doing the dishes and laundry. Yes folks I got me a keeper.

Happy Trails to You.....Ginger

Hooked Flag and Spring Cleaning

2011-05-02T14:59:00.013-05:00

Let me just say I would rather be pulling wool loops and hooking any day than cleaning. I took a break last night and drew off a pattern of a simple flag and with one fat quarter of wool and a few strips of yellow in no time I had this small simple flag mat finished.

Here is the fat quarter of wool I used. It worked great for this little flag mat don't you think?

This doesn't happen very often. Cleaned off all the kitchen counters and have supper ready to go for the night.....Hoping to find some crafting time tonight and tomorrow night!

Dusted and picked up but not for long....We will have to have some toys out before too long!

Almost need the fireplace going today since we are having a cold snap....and here it is May!

Still need to do a bit of decluttering on this area.

Keepsakes and quilts.

A look down the hallway....the laundry is almost all done for the day.....hooray!

The guest bathroom.

Our bedroom ....boy I could use a nap!

The eleptical that sits in our bedroom that I really need to be using?!?! Do you see the crocodile on the patchwork quilt on the chair :)

The wall in our bedroom that still needs some decorating.

The master bath....Two restroom areas yes a Cowgirls room and a Cowboys room!

Cowgirls

Cowboys

And behind the curtain on the right a wheelchair accesible shower for when we get OLD! The hope chest I made in High School wood shop class.

The guest/toy room....lots of toys for one little boy!

Well Sloan and I served lunch to the work crew today here at the house and we are exhausted so time to go watch a little Scooby Doo and maybe grab a quick nap. Hope your enjoying your Monday whatever you may be doing!

Happy Trails....Ginger

Happy May Day!

2011-05-01T21:39:00.004-05:00

Wishing each of you a Happy May Day! It was cold here today with the highs only reaching into the low 40's and with the cold winds and rains it sure felt good to turn the heater back on to take the chill off.

I have finally settled into my chair for the evening grabbing some wooly worms and a rug hook to do a bit of hooking. Sloan is spending the night and has closed his eyes for the night so I'm hoping to enjoy a few hours working on a little flag mat. Well better get busy with that wool and hook.

Happy Trails....Ginger

A Celebration

2011-05-01T01:02:00.006-05:00

Jenn and Ryan were married a few weeks ago and the day after they left to go on a cruise. So we put off a reception until this weekend. It was very informal with family and friends.

As you can tell Jennifer Noel has never been shy! Good luck Ryan!!!

Jenn's best friend Leslea with her sweet lil' daughter Kaylee and her Mom Julie and Kenneth.

Family

Food

Cake and Punch

Cruise photo's

Family and Friends

Here is a few photo's of the room we have been working on. We are doing it very rustic.

We have been working just about every evening....In the left corner we are planning on putting a large fireplace area.

We are getting closer to being done with the walls.

In this back corner we plan on enclosing a little room to put our washer and dryer into and a place for storage to hold all the tables and chairs for our family gatherings.

Well I'm hoping this week to find some time for stitching. On Thursday afternoon Mom and I are taking a trip to San Antonio to visit a cousin and spend a few days....It will be good to get away for a few days.

Happy Trails....Ginger