The Farmer's Wife

Changes for 2012

2012-01-25T08:55:00.000-06:00

The last three years have been awesome for this little business of mine. Still, every January as I look back on the previous year I try to think of things that I can do to improve upon it even more.

2011 was by far the best. I am still thrilled at the success of Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree. It was amazing! As soon as it was over, I started counting down to this year's event. I can't wait. November is far away, but I am already deep in the planning and creating.

Therefore, I have decided to focus all of my attention on my business at home, my etsy shop, and selling through local retailers. So, starting in 2012, I will not be vending at any junk/craft shows. I have withdrawn my registration for Junk Bonanza and will not be attending that or any other shows. This is not only due to the shift in my business focus, but also due to a much needed shift in my overall focus. My family needs to be number one! My boys are getting bigger and busier! In the past year, they have been involved in baseball, soccer, wrestling, basketball, church, etc, etc....the list goes on.

In addition, my etsy shop will be getting a much needed makeover and inventory boost. I will be working on this behind the scenes and plan to will rollout a new improved shop in early March. Look for it...I will be keeping you updated as well.

Finally, my next sale, Signs of Spring, will be held on Friday, March 23 and Saturday, March 24. Times will be announced later. I have been working on this since before Christmas and can't wait for this event!
Mark your calendars!

coming soon....

2012-01-18T08:59:00.000-06:00

hey, local ladies.....

I will be unloading a bundle of love at The Pink Doehr later on this week...by 'bundle of love' I mean great stuff for Valentine's Day. I don't usually do a lot for Valentine's Day, but I guess I am feeling the love this year!

I will also be adding some new spring stuff as well. There will be a regular spot for me at The Pink Doehr thanks to the wonderful owner, Amy Doehrmann. Love her and love selling my stuff there!

The Pink Doehr is located in Williamsburg, on the south side of the square.

Weekend projects

2012-01-08T20:39:00.003-06:00

Some of you that came to Junkin Around the Christmas Tree may remember the several remnants of vintage fabrics, tablecloths, and draperies that I had for sale. A few sold at that sale, but I still had lots left....what to do, what to do....

Hoop them up....

Bright, funky spring colors

Bright, sunny yellow...and THAT is green grass! Some of the grass is still green here in Iowa!

Home in all-American colors..

And that's just a little of what is to come this spring...more to come soon!

First Workshop/trunk Show Scheduled...

2012-01-04T15:03:00.000-06:00

I have my first worskhop/trunks show for 2012 scheduled....we are going to be doing some altered art using all kinds of fun vintage papers and other materials...

Should be lots of fun!!!!

Pallet Love

2012-01-04T08:37:00.000-06:00

Look at what my husband brought home last night...

"Can you do anything with this?" he asked...then he told me "there are about 8 more"

They aren't really pallets, but the sides of shipping crates...look how slim they are - and VERY LIGHT WEIGHT!

I have spotted other pallets around the farm, but I don't even ask because I know that he uses them...but these are for me!

WHAT will I do with them??? :)

pinterest - no source given

rachelandchristopher.blogspot.com via pinterest

from etsy via pinterest

thechive.com via pinterest

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Happy New Year

2012-01-03T09:45:00.000-06:00

....and back to reality!

I guess I forgot how to blog over the last few weeks. Hope to be back on track again now that the holidays are over. So glad when the season rolls around but almost more glad when it is over...except for the going back to work part!

Anyway, I have been working on some more new things for The Farmer's Wife for 2012...looking forward to sharing them with you in the coming months.

Additionally, I am now booking trunk shows for January and February...please email me or comment here if you are interested in hosting a show.

Ideas, Suggestions, PLEASE....

2011-12-06T13:30:00.001-06:00

2011 was another phenomenal year for The Farmer's Wife....I am so excited to look to the future! Once again, I am asking locals for ideas and suggestions on of more locations WHERE to sell/consign my creations. EVEN if you are not local and have ideas, please let me know...I am more than willing to ship product to wherever needed!!

I am very committed to devoting more time in the coming year to this business, with the hope of someday doing this full time....

So, any thoughts and ideas would be appreciated...even if you have ideas about other topics ~ like what you think I should create/upcycle in the coming year, how many sales I should have, etc, etc...Please give me some feedback, ask questions, whatever...NOW is your chance!

Parade of Trees

2011-12-05T19:58:00.001-06:00

I participated in our local Parade of Trees this year...The theme for the parade was "All God's Creatures Great and Small" and it was held at the Lutheran elementary school.

My Junk Tree....blingy keys and decoupage Bible page ornaments

some vintage wire landscape trim...perfect for hanging some vintage cards and button wreath

painted vintage globe

Bird cage with shiny brites

My boys and their Farm Tree...with all of their farm ornaments

More Christmas decor and goodies to come this week...You locals ~ go check out The Pink Doehr in Williamsburg....I added a bunch of fun stuff to her inventory last week....cozy frames, painted boxes, some wreaths....

more Holiday Bling & treat prices

2011-11-21T08:29:00.001-06:00

I worked all weekend...cleaning and organizing the basement after all the messes I made a few weeks ago. I also started on some more Holiday pieces..I will let you know when they are ready and where they will be sold.

Rusty hinge with some Holiday bling...
I had only three of these at Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree and they sold fast...

My holiday baking prices are now posted. Please click on the 'Holiday Baking' button at the top of this blog on the left-hand side. Please shoot me an email with any questions!

~ The Farmer's Wife in the Kitchen ~

2011-11-18T11:29:00.001-06:00

Over the last few holiday seasons I have played with the idea of baking for hire...baking is my second love next to junking/upcycling. I have made cookie & treat platters for close family and friends over the years and always get great feedback....so, this year is the year!

If you are local and are interested in any holiday baking, please shoot me an email or give me a call. I will be posting a price list sometime this weekend. I will also be busy this weekend creating more holiday decor...some will go to the Pink Doehr in Williamsburg while some on etsy and some I may just sell directly from my blog...

Stay tuned!

many many thanks!!!

2011-11-14T08:40:00.001-06:00

I can't say thank you enough to everyone that came out and shopped Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree Friday night and Saturday morning....It was my best sale so far. There were so many people in that little garage...my mom counted 33 crammed in there at one point...33 may not seem like a lot, but it was amazing to me!!

I would also like to apologize to the gentleman that called on Saturday night looking for directions...I am sorry that I thought you were "messing" with me. My husband's friends love to joke about my junking business and I truly thought you were one of them! And, I would have offered to let you come shop anyway, but, unfortunately, I had hardly anything left to show you!

Many of you asked for more of the Cozy Frames (the sweater backed frames with snowflakes)...there will be more at The Pink Doehr in Williamsburg soon...just give me a week or two to get some more together. I need to track down more frames!

After that, I am going to try to take a break...but I will still be blogging about all of fun holiday stuff going on at my house...

JUNKIN' AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

2011-11-11T08:41:00.001-06:00

Here are some more pictures of tonight's goodies & treats...I apologize for some the poor pictures. My garage has poor lighting and my camera wasn't agreeing with me...Please, Santa, bring me a new one for Christmas!!!

vintage button wreath -- just one of these!

WINTER banner on vintage blue Bingo cards

close up

a little FAITH on a piece of vintage ceiling tin

JOY cozy frame

Peace, Joy, Love

close up

Part of the black and white table...lots of goodies!

Burlap and black/brown button wreath

NOEL banner on vintage reddish Bingo cards

Bird cage and 'Winter in a Jar'

The jewelry buffet...

Forever banner close up

little bitty snowflake cozy frame

Peace - on a vintage door hinge

Silver snowflake cozy frame

HO HO HO banner from vintage game cards

couple of old quilts

Seasons Greetings scrabble decor

Merry Christmas...and other boxes

Iowa Rose Bowl cushions....from 1982, I think!

home galvanized bucket

another bucket

BELIEVE....decoupaged Bible pages

The door will open at 5:30, no early sales.....Hope to see you there!!!!

a little preview...

2011-11-09T08:45:00.000-06:00

Just a few pictures of some of the junk that will be at Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree...I hope to post more over the next few days...

Winter in a Jar & 2 Cozy Frames

Some winter and Christmas banners -- all wrapped up

Ceiling tin ornament

old flash card in a frame

another cozy frame

Vintage fabric remnants!!! I am no longer going to be making tote bags, so I am selling my remaining fabric. ~ vintage tablecloths, feed sacks, draperies....some larger pieces and many small pieces

Burlap and buttons wreath

Old drawer + blingy reindeer + pine cones = Winter Wonderland

Remember....This Friday, the 11th from 5:30 to 8:00 and Saturday, the 12th from 9:00 am to noon.

The sale will be held in my UNHEATED garage, so please dress accordingly. :)

Directions: about 1 mile north of the Marengo I-80 exit, right on the corner of the highway (M Ave) and 200th St.

sorry for the absence...

2011-11-02T05:56:00.001-05:00

Sorry that I have been neglecting my blog...I have been very busy with two trunk shows in the last two weeks and getting ready for Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree. ....I hope to post some preview photos this weekend. Plan to come shop next weekend - you won't be disappointed!

latest purchases...

2011-10-19T08:57:00.000-05:00

I spent last evening at Yoder Auction Service in Frytown, Iowa. I found lots of little goodies, more of which I will show you later. These two items were pictured on their website, so I just went over there and grabbed the pictures.

I saw this as soon as I got there and immediately moved on, thinking that it would go higher than I wanted to spend...not the case at all! Someday, I hope this can be part of my 'dream home' :). I am in love with it. It needs some love - you know, paint, some sanding, distressing, etc. For now, it will go into storage.

And these plant stands...LOVE the white and green one! Definitely keeping that one. It is small enough to squeeze into my house right now! The other will probably get painted and ruffed up for Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree.

More pics later...I also got the most adorable owl cookie jar...can't wait to show you that!

My FIRST guest appearance & More Pinterest Love

2011-10-13T09:56:00.001-05:00

Today is my first appearance as one of the DIY or Don't Creative Team Members! Go on over to Sarah's blog and check it out!

I have been crazy busy getting ready for three trunk shows and my upcoming holiday sale, Junkin Around the Christmas Tree In the little free time I am getting I have been glue to Pinterest...it is addictive. So here are just a few things I have found on there that I LOVE...

fabric covered plastic hangers @ corrieberrypie.blogspot.com

PAINTED pinecones from ashleyannphotography.com

BEAUTIFUL wedding decor from heygorg.com

ghost from your child's footprints @ minermoments.blogspot.com

Mason jar lighting from BootsNGus shop on etsy

ornaments from countryliving.com

Adorable owl sweater....no link for this one, sorry!

great outdoor space, again no link...

just a cute phome from blogguidebook.com

A-MAZZZZING! pillows from etsy, but it would not link to the seller's page :(

~ my classrooms ~

2011-10-04T08:01:00.001-05:00

I have shown some pictures from my classrooms in the past, but I have new kitchens in my foods classroom and I added some different stuff this year, so I thought I would show them again.

All of these items are on top of the cabinets in the four kitchens in the Foods classroom...

vintage spice tins

vintage picnic basket & thermos

Chicken salt & pepper shaker and $.50 clearance plate from Hobby Lobby that I embellished using the cricut

great blue mixer & scale -- picture not so great! :(

vintage set of pyrex (from this classroom -- lots of vintage stuff here!)

canister set

another embellished plate

MY GRANDMA'S mixer...

getting started on some Halloween decorating

better picture of all the NEW cabinets and countertops...old ones were 40+ years old!

In my regular classroom ~ ~

Shelves at the back of my regular classroom...I painted white and added the black ric rac on the edges. The framed McCalls magazine was my Grandma's. She gave this to me at one of my bridal showers.

Blingy black chandie...

More clearance finds from Hobby Lobby...

the book shelf behind my desk...kind of a 'catch all.' I just bought the SELF SERVICE sign at Junk Bonanza specifically to hang in my classroom, just haven't found a good spot for it yet. I don't think my students get it...the other side says FULL SERVICE, but I will never let them see that!

LOVE my stapler & tape dispenser...Thank you again, Hobby Lobby!

MORE goods from the Hobby Lobby clearance...seriously, I paid less than $5 each for these!

SORRY, but yet again more Hobby Lobby....

My chalkboard and counter...always a mess...pictures of Dale, Jr (from the Daytona 500 a few yrs ago) and one of Jon BonJovi (from concert a few summers ago) hanging on the right side...and some funny Diesel jeans ad with a cute little boy on the left side...Needless to say, I am a collector. And, that color wheel...found it in one of the cabinets...guessing it is 40+ years old, too!

Lastly, this hangs on my podium...every year. The font and the background paper may change, but the quote stays the same...it is soooooo true! Its the first thing the kids see when they start my class. However, I think I need one hanging at the back of the room for me to see and always remember, too. :)

Weekend Finds ~

2011-10-03T08:53:00.000-05:00

The first weekend in October is one of the best weekends of the year...because its one of the three weekends of the What Cheer flea market! I really wanted to go on Friday because I knew everything would be pretty picked over by Saturday, but I did find some good stuff...I also went to a family auction after the flea market...Then, yesterday I went through everything in the garage that I have collected over the last few weeks. I need to get that garage cleared out for Junkin Around the Christmas Tree...

Love these saltine tins!!

Globe that I picked up at a garage sale on Friday night

Globe that I found earlier this summer ~ probably going to keep this one...love the vibrant colors

Some fruit boxes from the 'dollar guy' at the flea market...going to try something creative with these!

frames, a mirror, a few silver trays in a wire milk crate ~ all found at the Crowded Closet in Iowa City

Great piece of wool from the Crowded Closet

Couple great signs from the flea market

Cute bed from my husband's aunt's auction that I went to after the flea market

cute little owl :)

the other end of the bed...

Lastly,a great black and white cubby I found at the flea market...not sure what I will do with it, just loved the black and white!

I have a few more auctions coming up in the next few weeks that I want to get to and then I will be crazy busy getting ready for the Christmas sale...can't wait!

Thinkin' about Christmas.....

2011-09-27T13:17:00.000-05:00

Just couldn't wait to get this out....it's a bit early, but just want everyone to save the date!

JUNKIN' AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Friday, November 11th 5:30- 8:00 pm

Saturday, November 12th 9:00 am - noon

2206 200th St, Marengo

LOTS and LOTS of good stuff in the works for this sale!!!

a few Announcements...

2011-09-19T15:02:00.000-05:00

Wow! Another post already today???

Just found out this afternoon that I will have some bronzey colored and burgundy colored mums at my fall sale this weekend, 10 of each color...not sure on the price yet but will let you know as soon as I figure it out!

Also ~ I found out last week right before Bonanza that I am now a member of the "DIY or Don't" blog's creative team! YEAH!!! I will be offering up tutorials and creative ideas. Check her out... www.diyordont.blogspot.com ....she has some great stuff on there!

Giveway Winner, Bonanza Update, Harvest of Junk

2011-09-19T09:48:00.001-05:00

Lots of stuff to get caught up on ~ ~
First of all, the winner of the Giveaway from last week is....

Julieann, who wrote:)
How about a credit for your booth at JB.. Show us what your brining so I know what to buy...
One of my fav finds is a cute little red phone I bought in your booth last year...

I don't have a picture of your goodies right now, but will put one on tonight! It isn't a HUGE goodie bag, but some great stuff, nonetheless! So, shoot me a message and give me your address so I can get the goodies in the mail!

Next ~ THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to all of you that shopped my booth or stopped by just to say hi at Bonanza! It was a phenomenal weekend! I sold all my furniture but one piece and sold lots of my smalls. I hardly brought anything home and my helpers and I packed it up in record time!

a HUGE thanks to my mom, my sister-in-law Sheila, and my cousin Jessica for all their help!!!! I could not have done any of it without you. They all work for nothing but the fun of going to Bonanza!

I turned in my registration for next year...so, already counting the days for Junk Bonanza 2012!

finally.......Harvest of Junk
THIS Saturday, September 24th
8:00 am - 3:00 pm
in my front yard...

NO EARLY SALES
SALE STARTS AT 8:00, NO EARLIER
ALL items discounted after 3:00 pm

Don't worry ~ I sold lots at Bonanza, but still have great stuff at home and will be creating more stuff this week!

The Farmer's Wife at Junk Bonanza

2011-09-15T21:15:00.001-05:00

sorry for no comments....soooo tired!!! Here are a few pictures from my booth...

Giveaway????

2011-09-13T14:54:00.000-05:00

I noticed that I have very few comments for my giveaway...I realize that you may not know what you're going to win...but what do you have to lose???

You must be a follower...Then, comment, and have a chance to win something from the Bonanza...something fun, junky, interesting, Trust me, I won't dissapoint you!

AND, comment over on The Farmer's Wife facebook page, NOT my personal facebook page. I have been having trouble linking it up to my blog - I apologize for that! Search "The Farmer's Wife" (the one with the chicken profile pic) and comment on there for another chance to win!

Just a few Bonanza treats...

2011-09-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

Started packing the trailer yesterday...here are just a few things going to Minnesota with me. I will post more pictures tomorrow...DON'T FORGET about the giveway. Read last week's "200th Post Giveaway" for details!

Crusty, rusty chicken coop and bed spring

Pretty light green metal trays -- three sets of these!

Galvanized wash buckets ~ on wheels!

Black chippy divided box

Back side of black chippy box -- could be used for and end table or night stand..
.green file box and black and white stenciled box

Super chippy, cracked little white dresser

Junk Bonanza +200th Post Giveaway

2011-09-08T13:28:00.002-05:00

My driveway, garage, basement, and dining room are all full of the goodies that will go to Shakopee with me VERY EARLY next Wednesday morning. This will be my third time vending at Junk Bonanza and I am more excited than ever. I feel like the last two years was spent trying to figure out what would sell, how to set up my booth, what to wear, how to attract customesr, how much change to bring, what hotel to stay in, how much I could justify buying and bringing back home....blah, blah, blah. I am defintely more relaxed this year and enjoying it very much!

I will try to post pictures of my treasures over the weekend, but here are some ideas of what you will see in my booth...lots of neutrals, but also some black, robin's egg blue (of course!), light green..chippy furniture, some very fun upcycled stuff (VERY FUN!), some decoupaged items...the little fun stuff like scrabble tiles, dominoes, keys, and other game pieces...and lots more.

AND, the best part of going to Bonanza is picking out prizes for 2 lucky winners! This is my 200th post, so in honor of that I am doing a giveaway on here. I am also going to do a giveaway over on my facebook page (search "The Farmer's Wife").

Requirements: YOU MUST BE A FOLLOWER on this blog. Post a comment on here, telling me about your all-time favorite "junk find." Go on over to Facebook and do the same on my wall. Therefore, you can enter twice! You must comment by midnight, Tuesday, September 13. Then, I get to go shopping at Bonanza and pick out something fun for the winners!!

GOOD LUCK!

Love this...

2011-09-06T10:17:00.000-05:00

Pinterest....my new obsession...

2011-09-02T12:31:00.000-05:00

I AM IN LOVE WITH PINTEREST....I could spend ALL day, ALL night on this site...just check out a few of the things I have found...

Follow me on Pinterest and set up your own account!!!

Catching Up...

2011-08-25T08:34:00.004-05:00

I have been very absent lately...mostly due to school starting for both me and the boys. I am also very busy preparing for Junk Bonanza which is coming up in just a few short weeks. This weekend I will be up to my eyeballs in paint, pricetags, mod podge, hot glue....and trying to figure out how to make my booth look wonderful...I am thinking burlap, white tulle and white Christmas lights. I am sure it will all come together...can't wait for September 14th!

On a different subject...Harvest of Junk is right around the corner as well. The week after Junk Bonanza, actually. This year it will be on a Saturday, all day, from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. The best part of this year's HOJ is that from 2:00 - 3:00 everything that is left will be at least 25% off. There may be other items that will be reduced even more. I am also hoping to get my hands on some pumpkins, gourds, and mums for this year's sale. AND, Sam might be selling some homemade goodies again ~ cupcakes, cookies, who knows?

Finally, I noticed that this is my 197th post...a 200th post giveaway is in the near future. I promised my facebook followers a giveaway awhile back, too, and haven't made good on that yet. So, get on over there and follow (search for "The Farmers Wife" on FB) and there will be a giveaway on there soon, too. I am thinking a bottle cap necklace, some other fallish looking jewelry, some other fun trinkets....a nice little junk goodie bag for one follower on here and one on Facebook!

Stay Tuned!

Odds & Ends....

2011-08-13T08:23:00.008-05:00

A few of these have been added to my etsy shop...I'll be adding even more next week!

Couple more auction finds...I L.O.V.E. these light blue BINGO cards...cannot wait to use them!!!

A Spirograph!!!!! I had one of these when I was 8 or 9...I loved it! I think I am going to try to show my boys how its done!

A project I started this week...sweater flower pillow...found the idea on another blog (sorry to the blogger I got the idea from, cannot remember who you are!) These are not the greatest pictures. Black can be hard to photograph!

Also ~ Save the Date for HARVEST OF JUNK 2011.....SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH

AND, I got this new computer and I need some help...anyone have any idea WHY some of this post is underlined??? I DID NOT do that and cannot figure out how to UNDO it...AND, I also cannot hghilight in my posts - again, anyone that can help me with this???

thanks!!

oh, wait, and I just tried to publish and it won't let me....I have to open this up on my OLD laptop to publish it!!! Seriously!?!?!?!?

What I Wore Wednesday.....

2011-08-10T07:22:00.007-05:00

Only one outfit today....didn't do very much in the last week! That will all change next week when I go back to work (teaching).....BLAH!!!

Dress ~ Gap, thrifted

Shoes ~ Target

Necklace ~ made by me....check out my etsy for others...

Bracelet ~ made by me

I am linking up with http://thepleatedpoppy.com/blog/

a few What Cheer finds...

2011-08-06T20:03:00.006-05:00

Just a few of the great finds from What Cheer yesterday...wish I could have gone back again today, but I ran out of money! :)

Please excuse the LONG grass...can you believe that we have TWO lawn mowers and BOTH are out of comission?!?!

Great color on this wheel barrow!
Little tool box/soil test kit...the labels look great!

I had a few more pictures of these little tables but my computer is acting up (that new DELL cannot get here fast enough!), so I just have these two...

Love the little tables...will probably paint them...any thoughts on color? White? Black? Aqua? Maybe even hot pink? :) I would like to try something new. Please give me some ideas!

TrUnK ShOws for FaLL....

2011-08-05T14:01:00.004-05:00

Fall is almost upon us....

If you are interested in hosting a trunk show or workshop in your home in September, October or November, please contact me immediately...these months will be extremely busy for me and I need to get dates in order....

September & October shows will contain fall & halloween items and November shows will contain Christmas & winter items. All shows will still contain the non-seasonal creations such as home decor, bags, and jewelry...as well as bits and pieces of great junk!

If you have never hosted a trunk show and have questions, just shoot me an email. The shows I have done have been tons of fun and the hostesses have been pretty pleased with their success! All of my 2011 hostesses will also be receiving gift certificates for my Holiday show in November....

Hope to start booking some trunk shows soon!!!!!

Midsummer Market Photos...

2011-08-04T21:39:00.014-05:00

PLeaSe ShOp MidSuMmeR MaRkeT!!!

2011-07-28T12:46:00.002-05:00

I would like to get more pictures up tonight and I will try....but I am working my hiney off trying to get everything set up....there is more stuff than I realized!!!!

Please come, bring a friend, a neighbor, relative, co-worker, etc, etc. There will be something for everyone, including a few holiday items! Some of the holiday items are leftovers from last year so they will be marked down!!

See you then!!!!

What I Wore Wednesday...

2011-07-27T09:10:00.023-05:00

I've been absent from WIWW for quite some time...these are just a few outfits from throughout this summer, a couple of them are from my trip to California for the FCCLA National Convention. I had to take 2 of my students to compete. Love California...

Outfit for FCCLA Gala..

Black & white maxi dress ~ LOFT outlet

white cardi ~ LOFT

black sandals ~ thrifted, Merona

earrings ~ Target

I had a full shot of this dress, but my computer is being difficult (finally getting a new one, it is on its way to my house as I write this :)

I think this was a t-ball/baseball game outfit from a VERY hot game night....

Tank ~ Target

Shorts ~ Gap outlet

Fire Opal Sterling ring ~ Native American festival in New Mexico

Spoon bracelet ~ made from my Grandma's antique silverware

Another ballgame outfit...

Black lace top ~ Old Navy...I think it was less than a dollar!

shorts ~ Gap outlet

watch ~ Ebay!!

Another outfit from FCCLA convention...

Orange dress ~ Banana Republic outlet

necklace & bracelets ~ Claires

Sandals ~ thrifted, Steve Madden

Today I am linking up to THE PLEATED POPPY

I will also try to get some pics up from Midsummer Market in the next few days...my etsy shop is open again and there will be some new items added to that...

More Market Previews...

2011-07-25T19:59:00.012-05:00

Some upcycled candlesticks....
Little blue end table/cabinet/cupboard....not sure what this is...Opens from the front and opens on the top...

Crazy bench...top looks like an ironing board and it has two different sets of legs...

This cupboard has been sitting on my patio for several years....just time for it to go!

Robin's egg plant stand...

Another patio piece that needs to go...

Chippy shabby magazine basket...

Cute igloo cooler...

More to come....check back often!

Jewelry Preview for Midsummer Market

2011-07-23T08:34:00.016-05:00

Some handmade/upcycled jewelry you will see at Midsummer Market next week...

Burnt flowers, Tattered Roses.....

Wooly flower & Burnt flower pins ~~

Summer Sale at my Etsy

2011-07-06T07:53:00.003-05:00

Still not caught up....so sorry.....Why is it that I am MORE overwhelmed in the summer when I AM NOT working than I am during the school year when I am working every day?

Anyway...I did manage to put everything ON SALE in my Etsy shop. There's not a TON of stuff there, but still some goodies. Use the coupon code SUMMER15 to get 15% off your purchase!!

I hope to get caught up before I leave for California this Friday....otherwise it might be Thanksgiving before you hear from me again! :)

Absence...

2011-06-28T07:43:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the absence...I have been busy with t-ball, baseball, swimming, cleaning, going to a tractor show, crafting, painting, junking.....you know...

Hope to get a few more posts up this week to show all of the treasures I have found...

A few other announcements/reminders:
~~ Locals: don't forget, my stuff is now being sold at The Pink Doehr in Williamsburg. Just took some new stuff in last week, including a bunch of bottle cap necklaces!

~~ my next sale will be.....Midsummer Market...Friday, July 29th and Saturday, July 30th....times to be announced. This sale will be BIG. I have been collecting lots of great stuff AND making some great stuff. There will also be a HOLIDAY PREVIEW with holiday items FOR SALE. SAVE THE DATE!!!!

Like I said, hope to get a few more posts up this week. AND, hopefully, blogger will cooperate. I STILL CANNOT see my followers OR anyone else's followers for that matter. I am still working on getting it fixed....

Blogger help!!!!

2011-06-10T17:22:00.002-05:00

I cannot see my followers or anyone else's followers...but when I go to my dashboard it says that I have 133 followers...where did they go???

I also cannot comment as "the farmers wife" when I comment...it goes in as 'anonymous'

ANYONE know what I need to do????

Please HELP!!!!!

blogging break :)

2011-06-02T10:31:00.003-05:00

Thanks to all who attended my sale last weekend...unfortunately, the rain kept many others away! But, all in all, it was still a great sale! Thanks again!

I need to take a break from junking, crafting, and blogging to clean my house. I mean really clean my house. In the last five years there has been a new job + grad school + jumpstarting my business + both boys starting school + both boys starting sports....you get the picture. This house needs an overhaul!! So, I will be absent for the next 5-10 days. However, this evening after much cleaning I plan to do some major blog stalking of my own and get caught up on everyone else's great stuff.

Also ~ there will hopefully be a BIG sale either the 3rd or 4th week of July. I hope to have cleaned out my current inventory by then and have all new stuff for you to see....and, MAYBE a Christmas preview...who doesn't love Christmas in July?

On more thing ~ this is my 182nd post...nearing my 200th....hmmm...I feel another giveway coming on!

Stay tuned!

a little more preview...

2011-05-27T08:21:00.016-05:00

Americana box ~ for flowers, or whatever!
some old school books...

Sweet little pink step ladder ~ ~

All kinds of fun stuff...spindles, license plates, game boards, etc, etc....
little robin's egg blue desk ~

Those great letter tile necklaces...

Chalkboard from upcycled cabinet door ~

some CLEARANCE stuff ~~~ cheap!!! from $5-15 on these items....

more clearance....

more clearance.....

AND, little Sam will be selling cupcakes for 50 cents each...all $$$ made will go toward his college fund...LOL!! Probably not, more likely some new legos!!

TOMORROW ~ 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Hope to see you there!!!

a little preview...

2011-05-26T07:56:00.015-05:00

Here are just a few of the items you will see this Saturday....

More pictures to come soon...I wanted more pictures posted and to have these up sooner but we lost power for about 45 minutes last night and when it came back on we did not have internet! So, its been a little slow getting this all around!

I have had a few girlies ask about jewelry and how much I will have Saturday. I did make about another 35-40 zippy pins but I have not made any more bottle cap or rosette necklaces, but there are still a few left over from my last show. Hopefully, by my midsummer sale there will be tons more jewelry!

Also ~ just a reminder....book your trunk show for summer! Let me know if you are interested in hosting a show in your home and getting some awesome hostess benefits!

Perspective....

2011-05-25T12:21:00.003-05:00

I had a panic attack last night.

I thought that I had lost EVERYTHING on my computer. I mean EVERYTHING. There was nothing on my screen except for my desktop photo of Jon Bon Jovi. There were no pictures, documents, music to open. NOTHING.

Then, my husband started to mess with it and he did some system recovery thing and when I woke up this morning everything was back. Then....I felt bad. I was so worried about losing all the pictures, documents, music etc that I felt kind of ridiculous. There are tons of people in Joplin that have lost everything, not just the contents of their computers. They have lost their homes and they have lost loved ones. How stupid of me to worry about a dumb computer! I am just going to continue to be thankful for everything that I do have and pray for those that need it!

With that in mind I am also not going to worry about the fact that, once again, my yard will be a river for Saturday's sale! You might have to park on the road and walk across the 'higher' part of the yard to get to the shed, but, at least you can get here. I am not going to worry about the fact that my weed eater is broken and I couldn't weed eat or the fact the my garden has not been put in yet and looks like a small jungle. I am just going to set up the sale and have a good time selling junk and meeting my customers. So, come enjoy it with me...and be thankful for what you have too! :)

Pictures coming soon!

Etsy....

2011-05-18T11:18:00.002-05:00

I am slowly getting my Etsy shop going again...Also going to add more to "The Pink Doehr" in Williamsburg for you local girls... My Etsy link is over there >>>> on the side...check it out!

ReMinDEr!!

2011-05-16T11:08:00.002-05:00

Back to work, recovering from a great weekend...I will post some pictures later. I just wanted to remind all of you of the upcoming sale....

Memorial Saturday Sale
Saturday, May 28th
8:00 am ~ 2:00 pm

Remember ~ sale WILL NOT start until 8:00 am

And, I lied before....there will be quite a bit of upcycled, hand made stuff in addition to some great junk. I guess I just can't stop with the painting, sewing, etc, etc....

Date Night

2011-05-12T12:29:00.000-05:00

I have a date tonight....

with him..... 6th row seats at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines....

I remember him when.....

Wish I could age that well!!!!

Pictures, there will be tons, will be shared next week....I am going to Women of Faith tomorrow at the same venue. Yes, BonJovi tonight and Women of Faith tomorrow...what a great combination!!! :)

I am Featured!!!

2011-05-11T11:36:00.003-05:00

Today I am featured on... YEAH!!!! This is the first time I have ever been featured!! :)

What I Wore Wednesday...

2011-05-11T07:31:00.010-05:00

Just a few outfits this week...

It has been very HOT here the last few days...and I have NO air conditioning in my classroom so some of my outfits were just for getting through the heat and not that fun or attractive!!!

I think this whole outfit is less than $50. I believe the pants were $3-4 on clearance!

sweater ~ Gap outlet

skinny capris ~ Old Navy

shoes ~ Victor brand from Younkers

necklace ~ vintage, was my Grandma's!

Pictures are not so great ~ sorry!!!

top ~ Eyeshadow, from rue 21

little pleated skirt ~ Banana Republic outlet

shoes ~ Target

bracelets ~ Forever 21

I am linking up to ....The Pleated Poppy

Check out ALL the other What I Wore Wednesday posts over there!

REMINDER ~ to all you locals...Memorial Saturday Sale

Saturday, May 28th

8:00 am ~ 2:00 pm

lots of great stuff!

Bag Lady

2011-05-06T08:51:00.007-05:00

I've been working on some more bags...there WILL be bags at the Memorial Saturday Sale...

Here's one made from a vintage t-towel..
The rest are just the fabrics I am going to be using...LOVE this red barkcloth print, green tiny dot feedsack and green trim ~ ALL vintage!

Another barkcloth sample from an old valance...

More barkcloth...

Not really barkcloth, but very heavy, maybe outdoor fabric?

Watch for all of these to be turned into beautiful bags for your summer excursions ~ the beach, the pool, grocery shopping, or flea market shopping!

On a separate subject, I am up to 130 followers as of today! Yeah! Thanks to all of you that are following this blog! I appreciate your support!!!

WIWW late edition...

2011-05-04T11:18:00.007-05:00

I have been absent from What I Wore Wednesday the last few weeks. Don't have much to show this week but this favorite outfit of mine...

Cream cardi ~ LOFT outlet

striped tank ~ Eyeshadow, but from VF outlet

cargo capris ~ Banana Republic outlet

necklace ~ made by me

bracelet ~ Forever 21

flip flips ~ Merona from Target

Linking up to...The Pleated Poppy

Save the Date ~ Memorial Saturday

2011-05-04T11:11:00.002-05:00

Kick off Summer with a Junk Sale!!!

Memorial Saturday Sale
Saturday, May 28th
8:00 am ~ 2:00 pm

mostly junk with a little bit of upcycled stuff!

Sale will begin at 8:00 am
PLEASE ~ no early sales.

Memorial Saturday Sale

2011-05-03T13:28:00.002-05:00

It is official...

my next sale will be Saturday, May 28th...not sure on the time yet, but will let you know soon. This will be advertised on here, craigslist, and through posters/flyers...so tell everyone you know!

Upcoming Sales & A Thank You

2011-05-02T11:44:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone that braved the wild winds and came to Signs of Spring Friday and Saturday. It was another VERY successful sale!!! Once again, I do not have pictures since I, my mother, and my friend that were helping me were all too busy to get any taken!

There will be a few more sales this summer. There may even be on over Memorial Day weekend. I will decide for sure this week. It depends on how much more inventory I can acquire before then! IF there is a sale Memorial weekend it will be more 'just junk' and not as many handmade, upcycled items.

Also for upcoming sales......
Please do not shop the sale until the designated time. There were lots of people there Friday and they started shopping before the designated time of 5:00. Don't get me wrong ~ It was AWESOME to see the crowd coming toward my littel shed, but, this is a problem because of two reasons:
1) I was not ready, I really needed that last 15 minutes...I have had people tell me the past "Oh, its ok if you're not ready, we don't care, it all looks great. Just keep getting ready, don't worry about us." WELL, I DO worry. I spend a great deal of time getting ready for these sales and I want everything to be right. So, just humor me and wait until its time to open! :)
2) I had told other customers that they could not come early to shop. I do not feel that it is fair to them, especially when they find out that other customers were there early.

I have decided that in the future there will be some kind of signal to show that I am offically open. I don't have a real building with a door that locks/unlocks when I am open or closed, so I may rope off the area or have a big "open" sign that I bring out to the yard when I am ready. Someday...I hope to have a REAL building.... :)

Also, if can be avoided, please do not park in the back of the house...especially this time of year. We have tractors, trucks, etc etc coming in and out of there all the time. My husband ans his dad need all the room they can get back there. I usually have a sign directing people to park in the front yard, but I knew it would not stay put due to the wind!

Thank you for listening and again, thank you to all of you that attended. I will keep you posted as I decide about the Memorial sale!

jewelry...

2011-04-29T11:20:00.002-05:00

Yes...there will be lots of jewelry. Someone just emailed and asked about the button necklaces, bottle cap necklaces, etc.

These DID not photo well....sorry! There will be bottle cap, button, alphabet tile, poker chip, and dictionary necklaces. A little of each of these will be represented!!

a few more...

2011-04-29T09:08:00.004-05:00

These are the ones that I couldn't get to upload ....

some more boxes ~

Sheet music wreath ~~~

a little faith.........

more Signs of Spring ~ ~

2011-04-29T07:24:00.021-05:00

Sorry for the delay...computer was taking forever to upload these photos for some reason...

These pictures make things look somewhat sparse, but trust me, there is lots of good stuff. I just wanted things more spread out so people could have a better shopping experience. The tent really helped with that!

yellows...

Check out the old jewelry boxes ~ how sweet!

Fun stuff...dominoes, wooden spools, monopoly money~~

Drying rack ~ hang your hat...or your jewelry...

Doorknobs, doorknobs, doorknobs!!!

Old roller skates~

Cute little jars fit just perfectly in a cheese box ~

Some funky necklaces!!

Black & white.....

Old US map...

More fun stuff -- a whole table full...scrabble tiles, scrabble boards, printers drawers, precious pebbles, fun clothes pins, keys, church fans, etc, etc, etc

LOVE this 'paradise blue' dresser....but, sorry, no handles ~~~ find some of your favorite vintage or new handles and finish it off!

TONIGHT 5 - 8

TOMORROW 9 - NOON

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!!!!!

Just a quick note...

2011-04-28T17:39:00.001-05:00

Signs of Spring is shaping up to be amazing...filling the shed AND a tent

There will be some bargains, too!

...will post pictures later tonight!

There will be bubbles and candy for the little ones ~ bring them a long!

Preview...

2011-04-26T08:31:00.020-05:00

a little of everything in this post...

some embellished ceiling tin ~
upcycled wooden boxes ~ for your potted flowers~

a little songbird ~~

more boxes....

some way fun clothes pins!

the corner of a little map-decoupaged table...couldn't get all of it photographed because my basement is jam-packed right now! (could be on 'Hoarders'!)

some fun little vintage childrens' records ~~

more embellished ceiling tin ~

2 tiered serving dish, covered in sheet music & other shabby items ~

this says it all!

fun keys ~ be creative!

scrabble tiles ~ more creativity!

burlap rosette wreath ~

chicken feeder crock...

There are 2 of these candle holders ~ will be sold in a set....

another box ~

cool vintage make up case and map candle holders...

funky chicken!!!

This Friday....the 29th from 5:00-8:00 pm

and SAturday from 9:00-noon

NO EARLY SALES.

Hope to see you there!

ReMinDeR!!!!

2011-04-25T08:58:00.002-05:00

~~~ Signs of Spring ~~~

Friday, April 29th 5:00-8:00 pm

Saturday, April 30th 9:00 am-noon

depending on the weather this week, you may have to wear your golashes!! That front part of my yard will probably be soaked and a little muddy, but my doors will still be open! :)

I will be posting some preview pics later today and more throughout the week.

we interrupt this 'blogging break'...

2011-04-15T08:29:00.002-05:00

I am interrupting this blogging break for a quick announcement....

I am currently booking trunk shows for summer. I have had a few people ask about summer shows, so, yes, I am booking them right now. Let me know if you are interested in hosting one. I will also have a few sales at my home this summer but not sure on dates yet. That all depends on my sons' schedules!

Break over...back 2 work!

a little blogging break...

2011-04-12T08:49:00.003-05:00

I will be taking a little break from the blog for the next 7-10 days...so sorry, but I have lots to do to prepare for Signs of Spring. Those of you that plan to attend are in for some great stuff!!

Other things are starting to pile up too ~ laundry, yard work, papers that need to be graded, etc.

See you in another week or so...

Bloggers Nite Out?

2011-04-07T14:52:00.002-05:00

Even though the response on the Junk Revolution community board was minimal, I am still thinking of doing a little blogger event....Anyone in Iowa or the surrounding states interested? I don't really think that is has to be limited to junk bloggers...any crafty, thrifty, upcycling girls that want to join in would be welcome... I was thinking starting mid-afternoon, going into an evening and then finishing by lunch the following day...any thoughts? I would like some time for just networking, bouncing ideas off each other, maybe shopping at some fun local spots, having a fun dinner....what else??? Please let me know ASAP so that I can start planning...

just three weeks away!

2011-04-07T08:59:00.003-05:00

Signs of Spring

Friday, April 29th 5:00-8:00 pm

Saturday, April 30th 9:00 am - noon

will junk ever die???

2011-04-05T14:42:00.006-05:00

Will junk ever die? Will people stop wanting junk? Is it just a passing fad?

I remember when I was little and my mom decorated with junk...I thought she was crazy. We were the only people I knew that had their TV placed on an old wooden box. Everyone else had an 'entertainment center.' I was kind of embarrased. She also had all kinds of old farm tools hanging on the walls...seriously?

When I got married I wanted everything from Pottery Barn or Pier One. Nothing wrong with these stores, but why did I want something that everyone else in America had?

It was a few years later that I started going to auctions and looked beyond the beautifully stained oak furniture for the chippy, shabby, banged up tables, boxes, and chairs...

What do you think? Is it here to stay???

Would you rather have something mass-produced in your home...or something from an interesting place like this??

holy cow!!!

2011-04-05T08:47:00.001-05:00

I had a busy weekend ~~ our school prom AND strep throat!! Great combination, huh?? But, then I looked at my blog last night and couldn't believe it! 119 followers!!!!!oh my gosh!!!! all of you are awesome!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

AND, a special thank you to Tammy from A Primitive Place for mentioning my giveaway on her blog! Good to meet all of you new people. I have some catching up to do...I need to get to everyone's blogs and check them out!

Anyway....the lucky winner is.... Julie, who said: "Love the cute Easter sign, and the zippy pins are great too!!! Thanks for showing your fun creations on your blog....I have blog "stalked" for awhile off of Williamsburg blogs, but now I'm a follower! ;)"

Julie ~ shoot me an email and give me your address and I'll send those goodies your way!

I have a busy week ahead...creating lots of stuff...stay tuned!

100 followers Giveaway???

2011-04-02T12:28:00.002-05:00

I guess the Giveaway isn't working....Still need 4 MORE followers in order for me to giveaway the Easter wall hanging in the previous post. I'll sweeten the deal and add a few zippy pins as well...so comment and become a follower if you aren't a follower already! The Giveaway goes through Sunday night at midnight...

a little pink announcement...

2011-03-31T17:32:00.005-05:00

Just found out today that my creations will now be for sale at a local shop...The Pink Doehr Flowers and More in Williamsburg, Iowa

I don't have anything available in the store just yet, but hopefully by the end of next week you'll be able to find all kinds of good stuff right there onthe square in Williamsburg...

So, in honor of my debut at The Pink Doehr, I thought of something pink to give for the 100 followers Giveaway that I posted earlier today....

It isn't all pink, but has some pink in the background... and, it's just what you need for Easter!

So, leave a comment between now and Sunday night at midnight....comment about anything! But, remember you can only win if you are a follower!

100

2011-03-31T11:55:00.006-05:00

100... My kindergartner recently celebrated his 100th day of school. He had to take 100 pieces of something...than, I believe they all had to tell what they wish they had 100 of...I can't remember but I am guessing he said that he wanted 100 tractors... I would love to have 100 pairs of shoes....wait, I actually might have 100 pairs of shoes. :) I would love for it to be 100 degrees outside...

It would be great if I could find 100 more pink zippers, but the kind with the metal teeth. I just can't seem to have enough pink....the girlies love pink!

I would also love to have all 100+ cartridges for this wonderful machine...

MOST of all....

I would LOVE to have 100 followers! I am pretty close ~ 96! And, even though I just did a giveaway I think there could be another one if I get 100 followers. However, I need some ideas on what to giveaway! Give me some ideas, but be reasonable...no trips to Hawaii or brand new cars, sorry!

So, leave a comment and tell me what I should giveaway, or even tell me what you would want if you could have 100 of anything....This giveaway will be open to followers ONLY...

I guess the prize will be a surprise...Become a follower (if you aren't already) and comment from now until Sunday, April 3 at midnight, central time...

What I Wore Wednesday #3

2011-03-30T09:37:00.015-05:00

Here I go again... This was an "ego outfit" week...Ya know, those outfits that just make you feel fantastic. I had a student coin that phrase years ago and I still use it. I was able to take these photos in my hotel room at the Marriott in Des Moines. I took 8 students to state FCCLA Leadership Conference.

Striped top ~ Banana republic outlet

Black skirt ~ Target/Merona

UNBELIEVABLE cream/black heels ~ Connie brand from Famous Footwear....I JUST LOVE THESE and they were a great deal. The LAST pair in my size...it was meant to be!

Red Flower pin ~ made by me

Black Cardi ~ Gap outlet

Grey lightly blinged scarf ~ Gap outlet

Grey pants ~ REAL Gap

Grey suede heels ~ Target

Zippy pin ~ made by me

2nd Day of Parent-teacher Conferences outfit:

Dress ~ Dress Barn

Black Heels ~ Unlisted from Famous Footwear

Earrings ~ Target

Necklace ~ my Grandma's, but I added black organza ribbon to make it longer

Blingy Fake Ring ~ JCPenny's nail Color ~ "I'm Not Really a Waitress" by OPI

I am linking up with The Pleated Poppy

Junker Blog/Event/Party post #2

2011-03-30T08:56:00.004-05:00

I just posted this on the Junk Revolution Community message board...any of you that are not on the Junk Revolution board but are intersted in a blogger get-together in Iowa/midwest area, pleaser shoot me an email or leave a comment... I guess I will plan something for anyone in my area that wants to come. If I set a date, please tell me if you can make that date. If we do not have a good number of people than we might have to cancel....Ok, before I dive into the planning...I need to know: - are we thinking summer??? fall??- during the week? weekend? how many days? 1-2? 2-3? - what do you want to get out of this experience??? a lot of networking? a speaker? (experienced blogger or shop owner/junker), some hands-on fun?? (crafting/junking) - what are you willing to spend? Obviously, I want to keep it LOW! Whatever else -- please tell me

a rerun...

2011-03-26T08:19:00.002-05:00

No one likes a rerun...well, except maybe reruns of Friends or Sex and the City...anyway, I am rerunning a couple previous blog posts. I have had several questions recently about trunk shows(especially from the Junk Revolution Community), so thought I would repost this information...

TRUNK SHOWS!!!!Don’t wait for my next sale – host a trunk show in your home! Schedule a trunk show and I will bring a mix of vintage and handmade items for your guests to browse through and the best part is that you will reap the benefits of the sales!

Guest Sales Free Product
$150-299 -- 10%
$300-499 -- 10%
$500-749 -- 15%
$750-999 -- 20%
Over $1000 -- 20%

Additional Benefits:- Hostess will ‘shop’ the trunk show selection prior to guests arriving and set aside any items that she may want to purchase with free product benefits.- Hostess will also receive a $10 gift certificate for each booking made at time of the trunk show. Booking gift certificates can ONLY be used on future purchases, either at other trunk shows or sales held by The Farmer’s Wife. Booking certificates are valid for one year from the show date.- If hostess cannot find enough free products to fulfill her free product amount at the time of her show, she will be given a gift certificate for the remaining amount. Gift Certificate will be valid for one year from the show date.ALL products will be cash and carry. NO orders for custom made products can be placed at trunk shows.

If you are interested in hosting a TRUNK SHOW in your home, please contact me through email: thefarmerswifeiniowa@yahoo.com, or by phone at 319-430-9597.

Some questions answered....

What items/products exactly will you bring to the show?
A variety of created items- upcycled jewelry, tote bags, wall hangings, small furniture, hankie garlands, painted boxes, etcALSO - 'as is' vintage items, meaning that I have not done anything "crafty" with them...anything from vintage quilts, scales, frames, small furniture, dishes, wooden boxes, advertising signs, books, kitchen utensils, etc.

Can you customize a show with the creations that my friends and I like? For example, a show with mostly jewelry & tote bags?
YES! Absolutely! We can discuss any kind of direction or theme you want to take with your trunk show.

Can you send me some pictures of some examples of what I can expect to see at a trunk show?
Certainly! You can also look on my blog - in the 'blog archive' wayyyyy down at the bottom of the page...there you will find lots of pictures from the last few years...

FINALLY ~ more recently I have had people ask me why it is called a trunk show...HONESTLY, it was the only thing I could come up with! I didn't want 'home show' or 'home party' or 'style consultation' like many of the direct selling/home party businesses do. I wanted something different...There currently is no 'trunk.' :)

Cookie Recipes

2011-03-24T16:10:00.005-05:00

About a year ago I posted a blog entry about finding the world's greatest chocololate chip cookie recipe...because it has been my goal for as long as I can remember to perfect the chocolate chip cookie...ANYWAY, I think I may have found an EVEN better recipe...

Above is a photo of the ones my students made yesterday and today to serve to parents at our parent-teacher conferences...here is the recipe:

4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups butter, softened --- don't mess with this, use ALL butter!!
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 cups chopped walnuts (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Sift together the flour and baking soda, set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat in the instant pudding mix until blended. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture. Finally, stir in the chocolate chips and nuts. Drop cookies by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Edges should be golden brown.

They also made my favorite recipe for monster cookies...I have used this recipe for probably 10+ years and get compliments all the time. They are pretty much fool-proof!

1/2 cup soft butter

1 1/8 cup brown sugar

1 cup white sugar

1 1/2 cups peanut butter

3 eggs

1 tsp corn syrup

1 tsp vanilla

3 1/2 cups oatmeal

2 tsp soda

1 medium size bag M & Ms (or more if you want!)

Mix in order and drop by heaping spoonfuls on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Do not overbake. Note -- NO FLOUR!

HAPPY BAKING!

Julie's trunk Show - little SNEAK peek!

2011-03-24T08:29:00.012-05:00

Just a few pics of some of the great stuff going to Julie's trunk show tomorrow night...

If you can't tell already, I use this word a lot!!!

I've been experiementing with some of Tim Holtz's new products...I love thise little acrylic tiles and here I made a few into magnets.

These next few pics are not the greatest...still learning about that new camera!

Burnt flowers...again, sorry about the photography!

More of Tim Holtz's acrylic tiles ~ into necklaces!

A few more....now, this picture looks good, why didn't the others turn out better?!?! UGH!

This necklace might be on the "I tried, but not my greatest work" discount pile tomorrow night! The flower is just a little too flimsy for the beads!

AND, of course, more banners...these just need some ribbon and they will be finished!

More parent-teacher conferences tonight and then back home to make more stuff!!!!

Junker Blog Event/Convention/Party/Gathering?!?!

2011-03-23T12:07:00.005-05:00

Over the last few days there has been some chatter on the Junk Revolution Community board about possibly doing some kind of Junker Blog Event in the Midwest...would any of you other junk/diy bloggers out there be interested??

I am not 100% sure on what we are thinking...maybe a little get together/over-nighter at a hotel or conference center. I said that I could plan it, but if I did it would probably be in Iowa this year. When I say this year, I mean that it would be a great annual event, moving it around to other Midwestern states from year to year. OR, if someone else wants to take it on, if there is a more central location for this year, than someone else could plan it - I am open to any ideas...

Some other ideas ~~
- social time to just match faces with blogs!
- maybe a guest speaker -- someone who has been blogging for a long time and has lots of ideas for those of us that are still learning
- some kind of goodie exchange -- everyone bring something to share with everyone else
- shopping, of course, at the local junk spots

Like I said, I am open to ideas!
Please let me know if you are from the Midwest and might be interested!

What I Wore Wednesday...

2011-03-23T07:52:00.012-05:00

Deciding to start doing WIWW was probably a really great idea because I am realizing how extremely unflattering some of my clothes are! This past week was exceptionally unflattering! Not sure I even want to show you! :)

St. Patrick's Day ~ had to wear a little green!

Jean jacket ~ Old Navy

Green ginham shirt (that looks maternityish) ~ Old Navy

Zippy pin on jacket ~ made by me

Earrings & bracelets ~ SUPER CHEAP at Rue 21

I wore this outfit for Parent-Teacher Conferences. It WAS NOT what I planned to wear but I was having one of those mornings and this was the best that I could do. I also felt very maternityish in this top and it went on the thrift store pile when I got home!

Top ~ Rue 21

black flare pants ~ Gap

Earrings ~ Maurices

Pointy black heels ~ Nine West

AND again...not sure what I was thinking...AND I have worn this like 3-4 times this school year! UGH!!!!

Chambray dress/tunic thing ~ Tommy Hilfiger

black leggings ~ Old Navy

Earrings ~ Rue 21

Bracelets ~ from Liz Claiborne, like 6 years ago when I used to work there!

Spoon ring ~ Cracker Barrel....yes, the restaurant with the awesome gift shop :) I bought this 10 years ago on a youth group trip with my church!!!!

Nail color ~ "Already Famous" by Sephora/OPI

Flats ~ Victor brand, bought at Younkers, SUPER cheap on the clearance rack

So.....guess I am going to go home and evaluate my wardrobe! With much hesitation, I am linking up to the Pleated Poppy

Stay tuned for previews of Julie's trunk show...pictures will posted late tonight/early tomorrow!

Giveaway Winners!!!

2011-03-22T08:57:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the delay....had a crazy busy weekend....

The two winners are....

Tammy ~ A Primitive Place said...
How wonderful!I am a follower and would love to be entered.
Tam

and

Allison said...
I'm a new follower - your flowers are super cute!

Shoot me an email with your address, girls!! I want to get those goodies out to you ASAP!

Stay tuned for more stuff this week. I have another trunk show this Friday so I will have some new creations to show off!!

Pay it Forward

2011-03-17T09:15:00.003-05:00

Whoa!!! TWO posts in ONE day!!! Heard about this on the Junk Revolution community and just had to try it!

I am joining
Jeanne from Junxtaposition
my home to yours
in this year's
Pay it Forward

Here's how it works....
The first five people who comment on this blog post
will receive a handmade gift from me.In return, you must FIRST write
(dont forget to leave an email address)
a blog post explaining
Pay It Forward 2011
Then.... send out a handmade gift
to the first 5 visitors who leave a comment on your post.

Take your time...you don't need to send them all today
or tomorrow. Any time in the next few months.
No pressure. This is to be a joyful experience.
"It's not the size of the gift that matters,
but the spirit of paying it forward."

bottle caps

2011-03-17T08:27:00.008-05:00

I did a little junk jewelry workshop last Saturday. The biggest hit of the day was the bottle cap pendants/necklaces. Soooooo....I started looking around for more ideas....AND MORE bottle caps (I am bidding on some on ebay right now - wish me luck!)

Look at this great frame!
Great purse ~~

Christmas decor from jillruth ~~~ check out her blog!

She made them into garlands...

Some of the projects my "students" completed ~ prior to filling them with diamond glaze to set the paper/words/letter...

These pictures are not the greatest...I have that new camera, but still trying to figure out all the fancy settings!

Like I said, I am on the lookout for MORE bottle caps so that I can make some!!! ...hopefully, you'll be seeing my bottle cap creations at my next sale...

don't forget about the giveaway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-03-16T08:34:00.012-05:00

Taking the advice from my fellow friend/blogger Nicky at Momma Gets Real, I have decided to try "What I Wore Wednesday." For those of you not familiar with it, every Wednesday you post some or all of the outfits you have worn over the past week...sounds a little fashion obsessed, doesn't it?? Well, some of you that know me well know that I do LOVE clothes. In fact, they take a very close second to my love for vintage/junk/antique stuff.

I also thought it would be a great way to showcase some of the jewelry that I make...for example, this zippy bracelet is included with my outfit for today...

I took my pictures at school, since I have a full length mirror and the lighting is better. Full length mirror in my classroom??? You might think that is weird...Actually it is a 3-way mirror used for my students when they sew clothes. However, they rarely sew anything that needs a 3-way mirror. But, all the girls know its there and trust me, it gets used!After I uploaded this shot I quickly realized that the mirror desperately needs a cleaning...I'll put one of those girls on that task!

Sweater (which I only wore buttoned for the photo): Target

Ruffle top: Express

Grey yoga skirt: Target

Way CUTE blingy zebra flats: Target

Sterling pearl and heart necklaces: Michele Baratta At Home

Zippy bracelet: made by me!

I am linking up to the Pleated Poppy Go check it out!

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Of course, can't have a post without some junking or crafting...Here is a bag that I am working on right now, also at school with my Clothing class kids. I love that I can sew WHILE they are sewing...

It's an old C & H sugar bag ~~ I am playing with the orange fabric, maybe thinking about making it into a ruffle for the top. I am already using it for the lining.

Other side ~ ~

AND, I'm not Irish but a couple lucky ladies who are pretty important to my sons are going to get these goodies tomorrow. Found this super cute idea over here. Check out all the great printables she has!

DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE GIVEAWAY!!! TAKING ENTRIES THROUGH SATURDAY AT MIDNIGHT!

finally...a giveaway!

2011-03-15T08:29:00.005-05:00

Since I am so behind in getting giveaway pictures on here I decided that I would do a FUN{surprise} giveaway...

One item that will not be a surprise...
a ten dollar gift card for this fun place to each winner!

Each winner will also get a few of these...colors and styles will be a surprise!

Each winner will also get a few of these button necklaces...

again, color and style will be a surprise!

There will also be other fun surprises in each prize package...

So, two giveaways ~ one for followers and one for everyone else...however, if you are a follower you will also be entered with 'everyone else'....so, followers will have 2 chances to win! BUT, you must leave a comment on this post or any of this week's posts between now and Saturday, March 19 a midnight (central time).

GOOD LUCK!!

a beautiful life

2011-03-11T08:39:00.009-06:00

I was finally able to get back to the basement for a bit the last two evenings. Had to get some stuff done for a jewelry workshop and trunk show that I have tomorrow.

Found this little handwritten poem in a vintage composition book..

~ A Beautiful Life ~

Each day I'll do a golden deed

By helping those who are in need

My life on earth is but a span

And so I'll do the best I can

More spring creations...

Finally got a new camera, but still learning how to use it...this pic is a little 'shiny'...

Giveaway WILL start sometime this weekend...so far, Hobby Lobby gift card, zippy pin, button necklace...and more to come!

neglected...

2011-03-09T08:30:00.003-06:00

my blog is feeling a little neglected... I am sorry.

I AM going to do the giveaway, hopefully this weekend. I have 2 Hobby Lobby gift cards safely tucked away just waiting to be won by some lucky readers! I am guessing some of you new followers are thinking it was just a ploy to get you to follow me. Not at all...

Life just happens...and then also 2 days with very little Internet service or extremely SLOW Internet...one day in bed sick...parent-teacher conferences...preparing for upcoming trunk show...and most recently, a death in my family....

I will get caught up this weekend. Check back soon! :)

Junk Jubilee Blues

2011-03-01T14:58:00.002-06:00

I have the Junk Jubilee blues!!!!!! I really want to be a vendor, but I CANNOT take any more time off of work...boo!!! Check it out...http://www.junkjubilee.com

Hopefully, next year!!

a delayed giveaway and a spring date...

2011-03-01T08:28:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was Monday, and no giveaway...so sorry...

It was a busy weekend. We finally got to celebrate my graduate school graduation with a little party with friends at our favorite spot, Phool's Gold, in Marengo.

Yesterday we had to take little Ben to the allergist and of course make some stops at Target and Hobby Lobby...which did not put us home until about 6:30.

So, look for the giveaway information sometime this evening...

NEXT...a date for my spring sale that some of you have been asking about!

Signs of Spring
Friday, April 29th 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Satruday, April 30th 9:00 am - noon

Some of you have also asked about my summer hours. I hope to have that figured out soon. It all depends on the little guys and their activities for the summer. I will keep you posted!

My legs are tired!

2011-02-25T10:26:00.003-06:00

My legs are TIRED!

It seems they have been everywhere...have you seen them?

Yes, these are my legs...at Junk Bonanza 2009. On opening day, Heather Bullard approached me and asked if she could take a picture of me from the waist down. I believe she said something about liking the mix of textures....Who knew?? Who knew it would be on the Junk Bonanza website? It's even the profile photo for Junk Bonanza on Facebook!

a little about the famous ensemble:

Old Navy skirt (which I believe was on clearance for $.95 or something)

old seed sack turned into an apron (courtesy of my mom)

AND, some great used Justin boots via ebay

IF I would have known my legs would be somewhat famous I would have prepared a little more...some tanning, working out, etc.....hilarious!

Hey locals! Need your ideas....

2011-02-24T13:39:00.003-06:00

I am finally back from the very warm, very sunny south! Florida was beautiful and the races were some of the best I have seen. It was very hard to get on that plane to come home Tuesday.

so, back to reality...

I am working on some more ways to expand The Farmer's Wife...I would like to have my creations sold in locations other than my shed and at trunk shows. Anyone (specifically you local girls) have any ideas? Know of any local gift shops, floral shops, etc that allow artists to sell their creations in their shops? Please drop a comment if you have any ideas!

On another subject - there WILL be a giveaway starting next Monday. I am not sure of the handmade creations that will be given away, but I can tell you that Hobby Lobby gift cards will be given away as well. I will do one giveaway for EVERYONE and then one JUST FOR FOLLOWERS. This means that if you are a follower you will have two chances to win! Each giveaway will consist of one gift card and some handmade stuff!

stay tuned... :)

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T08:33:00.005-06:00

As I said earlier this year, there would be some changes to The Farmer's Wife...you already know about the trunk shows. I also want to bring more to this blog. I decided I would add some more of the non-junk projects that I do around the house, with my boys, etc. I am also going to be adding some recipes throughout the coming months.

We did some projects for Valentine's Day over the weekend. It was kind of a nice weekend - Dad left early Saturday morning for Daytona, so it was lots of Mom and the boys time....

First off ~ Valentine Oreo Pops
- Double Stuff Oreos
- White Chocolate Chips or Almond Bark
- Lollipop sticks
- Sprinkles, of course

I used the double boiler to melt the chocolate, but I imagine that you could melt it in the microwave - just be careful not to burn it. The next time I do it I will also freeze the Oreos with the sticks in them for a little while before dipping. I had several fall apart during the process. OR, maybe take the Oreos apart and add a little chocolate and put them back together -- use the chocolate as a glue!

These pops are for my 1st grader's 'surprise treat' for his Valentine party. So, I also wrapped each on in plastic wrap and tied with a ribbon. (didn't get a picture of that as it was about 8:00 last night and I had two grumpy boys to deal with also!)

Flower Pens for the Boys' Teachers

- silk flowers

- florist tape

- ball point ink pens

- tissue paper

- ribbon

- hot glue

I pulled the flowers off their stems and glued them (with a lot of glue) on the tops of the ink pens then just wrapped the green florist tape all the way around the pen.

Then, wrapped them up to look like a real bouquet!

You could also put them in a cute wide- mouth vase, like a flower pot.

I will be leaving on Wednesday for Daytona and will be back next Wednesday with 2 GIVEAWAYS -- one JUST for followers and one for EVERYONE else....

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Thank You, Lea!!!

2011-02-08T09:36:00.003-06:00

Last night's trunk show was amazing!!! I sold lots of great stuff and met some new customers! YEAH!!!!!

Thank you so much to my FIRST hostess, Lea, for having my first trunk show!

I wanted to take pictures, but once again, was too busy and having too much fun to get any pictures taken. I need a photographer, I guess!

I am going to take a little break for awhile...clean my house, make some meals, spend some time with my kids....

and, go here...

toes in the sand...in Daytona Beach!

Stay tuned for some giveaways....one for everyone AND one specifically for my FOLLOWERS...so, if you aren't a follower, you might want to become one!

Lea's Preview #2

2011-02-07T08:54:00.004-06:00

Some more photos of items that will be at my first trunk show tonight...

A little bit of love...
Of course, lots of these...a local favorite!!

Some vintage Valentines on a lace ribbon...there will also be lots of 'loose' vintage Valentines for customers to be creative with!

This picture makes this look much larger! It is actually only about 6 inches wide...A little bit of ceiling tin. There will also be a few larger pieces of awesome ceiling tin...

Happy...from an old dictionary page...Kind of hard to see in this photo!

Some more Valentines...

Gottta have FAITH!! These are little canvas squares deoupaged with Bible pages!

Close up...

Deoupaged maps on a bowl...

Closer, inside...

This is a SMALL child's school chair with a page from an old school book on the seat...

There will also be more jewelry,but, unfortunately, it does not photograph well...so I couldn't put it on here!

Can't wait to see how it goes tonight...photos tomorrow!!

Lea's Preview #1

2011-02-04T21:02:00.006-06:00

JUST A FEW things that will be at my FIRST trunk show on Monday. Thank you, Lea, for hosting the first one!

Again, I will complain about my not-so-great camera and that these are not the greatest pictures...so sorry!

Some of these items are "in progress"...not quite finished, but I wanted to share a few tonight.... I will post more tomorrow!

Some Valentines & Decoupage

2011-01-25T11:55:00.009-06:00

Some Valentines that I have been working on...Sorry, some of these have already sold! I am making more!

Here are some pictures of the decoupage workshop that was held at my friend Christy's. We worked in her husband's shop...like the John Deeres in the background?

I didn't get as many pictures as had wanted... I would have liked to get a picture of everyone with their completed projects AND a picture of the wonderful meal that Christy prepared for us...spinach souffle, tuna croissants, bean salad, oreo cake, apple pie...She was quite the hostess!

I guess we were all just oo caught up in the decoupage and the food to think about photos!

Some of the girls brought their own items to decoupage and their own papers...I also provided lots of papers ~ vintage sheet music, maps, book pages (dictionary, Bible pages) and various frames, flower pots, glass candle holders...

Here is a tray completed by Christy and a table top completed by Anna...

Amy with her Bible pages candle holders ~

Everyone had a great time and we're planning a jewelry workshop for the near future...

trunk shows...

2011-01-21T12:07:00.003-06:00

The front of my somewhat professionally made invites for my trunk shows...

By "somewhat professionally" I mean that I uploaded the pictures to fotoflexer and it did the rest of the work...then uploaded to vistaprint and it was finished for me! This also involved a little cursing as I had to change the resolution 50 different times and figure out the font, the color, etc...but, they are done and on their way to me. Next week they will be on their way to my first hostess as she plans her trunk show. Yeah!

Auction Finds...

2011-01-21T11:52:00.007-06:00

Went to an auction a few weeks ago and I am still trying to get everything organized and put away...Needless to say, it was a great day at the auction...

Here is my favorite find ~
Some kind of ceramic floral figure ~

Bonus ~ it opens up!! And, double bonus, there are 2 of them! I don't think these will be on any future sales...I am keeping them! :)

Snagged this neat map...has a map of Iowa on the opposite side. In this picture Ben is showing me where he thinks we live!

More fabrics, quilt tops, etc, etc,

AND...MORE Christmas stuff!!! I am addicted...

Holding my first "workshop" tomorrow...pictures of this next week!

2 Shows Booked & Some Questions Answered

2011-01-12T09:33:00.004-06:00

Yippeeeee!!!! 2 Trunk Shows Booked, and a few more in the works...

A few of you have had some questions about the trunk shows that I just thought I would address here, incase others are wondering as well...

What items/products exactly will you bring to the show?
A variety of created items- upcycled jewelry, tote bags, wall hangings, small furniture, hankie garlands, painted boxes, etc

ALSO - 'as is' vintage items, meaning that I have not done anything "crafty" with them...anything from vintage quilts, scales, frames, small furniture, dishes, wooden boxes, advertising signs, books, kitchen utensils, etc.

Can you customize a show with the creations that my friends and I like? For example, a show with mostly jewelry & tote bags?
YES! Absolutely! We can discuss any kind of direction or theme you want to take with your trunk show.

Can you send me some pictures of some examples of what I can expect to see at a trunk show?
Certainly! You can also look on my blog - in the 'blog archive' wayyyyy down at the bottom of the page...there you will find lots of pictures from the last few years...

If you have any more questions, feel free to comment here or email me!

a little announcement...

2011-01-10T09:01:00.009-06:00

I have been telling you all that there will be some changes and additions for The Farmer's Wife in 2011...well, I am ready to share one of them (probably the biggest one!) with you!

Here goes...

This one makes me a little nervous...not sure what the reponse will be....

TRUNK SHOWS!!!!
Don’t wait for my next sale – host a trunk show in your home! Schedule a trunk show and I will bring a mix of vintage and handmade items for your guests to browse through and the best part is that you will reap the benefits of the sales!

Guest Sales Free Product
$150-299 -- 10%
$300-499 -- 10%
$500-749 -- 15%
$750-999 -- 20%
Over $1000 -- 20%

Additional Benefits:
- Hostess will ‘shop’ the trunk show selection prior to guests arriving and set aside any items that she may want to purchase with free product benefits.
- Hostess will also receive a $10 gift certificate for each booking made at time of the trunk show. Booking gift certificates can ONLY be used on future purchases, either at other trunk shows or sales held by The Farmer’s Wife. Booking certificates are valid for one year from the show date.
- If hostess cannot find enough free products to fulfill her free product amount at the time of her show, she will be given a gift certificate for the remaining amount. Gift Certificate will be valid for one year from the show date.

ALL products will be cash and carry. NO orders for custom made products can be placed at trunk shows.

If you are interested in hosting a TRUNK SHOW in your home, please contact me through email: thefarmerswifeiniowa@yahoo.com, or by phone at 319-430-9597. I will start sceduling shows after February 1.

Material Girl

2011-01-03T08:57:00.010-06:00

I was working/cleaning in my basement yesterday...trying to get ready to do some major work this week....

Here are some of the fun materials I will try to conquer in the next 6-9 months...

Some old wool pieces ~ these were rescued from my Grandma's attic. They were all skirts that my mom wore!
Some chenille blankets and an Ann Taylor Loft crocheted vest that I am going to recycle into something...any ideas?!?!

Wooly sweaters....can't have enough of these!

LOTS of paper ~ sheet music, books, maps, etc...

Not really material...but supplies, I guess...super cute vintage salt and pepper shakers.

AND....project #1 completed for 2011: Sheet music garland! I got two of these done last night, each about 10 feet long...will be making more, a few with some glitter - BLING!

happy 2011

2011-01-01T16:22:00.012-06:00

Hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas...

I have been on quite the vacation from blogging...didn't mean to get so far behind. I apologize, but it was nice to spend more time with these two....

~ the photo from our Christmas card ~

Onto the resolutions....

I don't usually make resolutions, but there are some things that I think need to be changed....but we'll see if they really change...I have the best intentions :)

1) Shop at this store more....The New Pioneer Co-op in Coralville. Get better, healthier food....

2) Use recipes in this magazine to make better food...the hardest part will be getting the boys to eat better food...

not just the little boys, but the 'big' boy, too!

3) GO TO THE EYE DOCTOR....maybe get some cute glasses, like these...

4) Learn to make better pie...although, this kind of cancels out resolution #1. BUT, I do want to learn to make really good pie. I do pretty well with cookies and other desserts. I want to master pie!

4) Meet more famous people. Like these guys...already had my picture taken with them back in November, and am going to see them again the end of this month.

Also, on my list of famous people: Martha Stewart, Jon BonJovi, Def Leppard, Paula Deen, Sarah Palin, Steven Tyler....

and, of course, this guy...I'll try AGAIN in February at the Daytona 500. :)

I might have an opportunity to meet another famous person...Serena, from the Farm Chicks...

5) Go to the Farm Chicks Show in June...if my spring sales are good, this may be a strong possibility!

6) Expand The Farmer's Wife...can't give away too much of my plans right now. I still have some details to iron out. However, stay close to this blog as some fun things will be announced in the next few weeks!

2010 was an amazing year for me and I am so excited about this year. I have a feeling that some great things are going to happen....

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

a THANK YOU & a RECIPE...

2010-11-23T09:09:00.003-06:00

THANK YOU to everyone that attended Junkin' Around the Christmas Tree...

It was the best show I have ever had at my home!! By the end of Friday night most of the Christmas items had been cleared out! I couldn't believe the crowd. Thank you, again! This has been an amazing year and I am really looking forward to 2011.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving...

And...many of you asked (actually begged) for this recipe...here it is!

Layered Peppermint Bark (from allrecipes.com)
20 ounces white chocolate, coarsely chopped, divided
30 peppermint candies, crushed, divided
10 ounces dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
6 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Directions
1) Line a 9x12 inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

2) Melt half of the white chocolate in the top of a double boiler over just barely simmering water, stirring frequently and scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula to avoid scorching. Spread the white chocolate into the prepared pan. Sprinkle 1/4 of the crushed peppermints evenly over white chocolate. Chill until firm, about 15 minutes.

3) Meanwhile, melt the dark chocolate, heavy cream, and peppermint extract together in the top of a double boiler over just barely simmering water, stirring frequently, until just melted. Quickly pour the chocolate layer over the chilled white chocolate layer; spread evenly. Chill until firm, about 20 minutes.

4) Meanwhile, melt the remaining white chocolate in the top of a double boiler over just barely simmering water, stirring frequently, until just melted. Spread quickly over the chilled bark. Sprinkle with the remaining peppermint pieces; chill until firm, about 20 minutes. Cut or break into small pieces to serve.

2010-11-18T08:46:00.014-06:00

This is probably the last post I will write in preparation for Friday and Saturday's sale...I am almost ready, just need to price several items tonight and make some goodies. I should also sit down with my kids and help them with their homework for once this week! At least I have been able to see them since I have just been working in the garage.

This will be the LAST sale of 2010. I will NOT be doing any custom orders after this sale. I apologize for this, but I need the time to enjoy with my family. I will still be posting on here occasionally but will not be doing regular posts again until January. I will be making some changes in the new year and I look forward to sharing them with you then. This has been an awesome year for The Farmer's Wife and I look forward to many more years of having this fun creative business.

Onto more pictures...Some of these pictures are not the best...the garage was kind of dark and I do not have the greatest camera!

Old painted cupboard door...
Boxes, lots of boxes...

Perfect example of a bad picture :( This is a cute little somewhat RUSTY galvanized cubby...

This doesn't look that interesting now, but imagine the depression glass dishes with ham & cheese crescent wraps, chocolate covered cherries, and peppermint bark!! AND, of course, a variety of wine and champange...AND non-alcoholic drinks, too!

ALL of the seed sacks that are crammed into this bucket have been marked down!

Peace on earth...

MORE boxes...

Super cute vintage Santa mugs...

A few vintage light bulbs...

Not sure what this was used for??? A little treat box, maybe?

Some black and white...

Child's rocker...repainted, distressed...

cLeARanCe cORneR!!!! There are also lots of other markdowns throughout the garage!

Looking forward to tomorrow night....hoping it will be.....